After much planning, the Men’s Group 4WD weekend happened on 25, 26, and 27 September at Lake Lyell, just outside of Lithgow. The advance party left just after lunch on Friday 25th to set up camp, and to have a meal ready for those who left St Johns at 5.30 pm. As the NRL semi final between the Parramatta Eels and the Canterbury Bulldogs was on that night, Tony Young brought along a large TV for us to watch the game on.
The weather started fine on Friday but got colder and windier during the evening and night. Saturday was windy and cold, with some light sleet, and this continued on into the evening. Sunday dawned with the wind still blowing, but the rain and sleet had disappeared, so we had a fine, but windy, day.
Tony Galea led a study on encouragement after breakfast on Saturday. This was perfect for the days ahead – it made us all think, and set the tone for the rest of the weekend. We then loaded up and set off for Hampton State Forest a few kilometres away.
We had an exciting day with some rather steep climbs that had a rock step at the top – which made for interesting ascents. Lunch was barbeque toasted sandwiches – which was enjoyed by all. Over the day, the scenery went from valley floors alongside rivers to ridges with great views. This meant we arrived back at Lake Lyell at about 4 pm.
The fire was stoked up, and some hot embers were gathered to make a couple of dampers to go with tea. While waiting for the evening meal to cook, some went fishing, but the strong wind meant the fish were not biting, and it was rather uncomfortable. Dinner was really nice with all enjoying a hearty feed, with damper, and followed by fruit and custard for desert. The aim was to then have fellowship around the campfire, but the wind and sleet put paid to that. Off to bed to survive another wet, windy, and very cold night. Unfortunately some found their tent had leaked, so had to do running repairs by putting a tarp over the top of the tent.
As some of the people had returned home due to other commitments, the slightly smaller number had a scrumptious breakfast, and then packed up the camp. Once that had been completed, eight 4WDS headed off to Mt Walker.
Mt Walker is the highest mountain in the area, so the views from the top were outstanding. The tracks were a bit rougher than Saturday, but there were no steps at the top of steep grades to struggle over. However there were a couple of river crossings to add interest.
Just after midday, we arrived near Rydal, where we stopped and reinflated the tyres that had been let down to get grip. Ten minutes later we were entering the Rydal pub for lunch. What a wonderful place – 100 years old and still going strong. The owner and staff were very friendly, and the food was great – it was just what was needed.
Back to Lake Lyell to pick up the trailer, and then we headed back home in time for most to attend the five o’clock service at St Johns. The weekend was a wonderful time for the men who went to enjoy each others company, have some fun, build friendships, and give thanks to the Lord. Camping in the cold made us all very thankful for what we have at home.
A special thanks to Andrew, Geoff, Brett, Dave, and Paul who did the organising, the reconnaissance, the cooking, and looking after us all during the driving.
Give thanks to the Lord for a wonderful weekend, and we look forward to seeing YOU on our next men’s outing