29Th BSAOC of SA Annual Rally, Mannum SA, 30-31 Oct 1 Nov 2020

This year’s 29th annual rally was held in Mannum along the picturesque Murray River. This year we received 60 rally entries with 58 motorcycles taking part. Unfortunately due to this year’s COVID 19 problems, our friends from Victoria were unable to attend due to the border lockdown. We look forward to seeing them next year. The Mannum Caravan Park was rally HQ, with the majority of participants staying there. Friday’s evening meal was hosted by the Mannum Rowing Club. The Club’s President, Chris welcomed us giving us a historical overview of the 110 year old club, that is second in age only to the Port Adelaide in the state. A wonderful night was had by all 74 of us who attended, and many thanks to the club for its’ wonderful hospitality. Saturday’s run was led by our Club Captain, Geoff Wood. The day’s route took us from Mannum to Mypolonga, (Lunch), to Murray Bridge to Avoca Dell to Walker Flat/Ferry X’ing (Lunch) to Mannum (Short Run) or Walker Flat - Punthari - Mannum (Long Run). The short run covered a distance of 173Kms, with the long run another 14Kms for a grand total of 187Kms. Saturday’s night dinner was held at the ‘Pretoria Hotel’, in Mannum. Eighty eight members and guests attended, and we managed to fill the dining room of the hotel. The meal was very enjoyable, the staff first class and from all accounts, a good night was had by all. The raffle was drawn during the proceedings and the main prize, of a flight over the Barossa Valley with Geoff Wood piloting, was won by Andy Jarrett. Congratulations Andy! Sunday’s run was led by me, heading off at 9.30am. Our route was to take us from Mannum to Mypolonga for morning tea, to Murray Bridge, Jervois ferry crossing, and onto Old Tailem Town for lunch. After lunch we were to head back to Mannum for our final farewells. The total route for the day would take us 147Kms. I had a great weekend, and thoroughly enjoyed rekindling old friendships, and catch up with members who we only see once a year. A special thanks to Verity Robertson who organised the rally, and to everyone who helped to make this rally a success, thanks. I can’t wait to next year’s rally which will be our 30th, back to where it all started in Burra.