Annual Ride 2026

Riding Through History

Classic Riders Club of Goulburn celebrates its 35th Annual Ride

By Chris Thrower

The rumble of classic motorcycles returned to the streets and countryside around Goulburn in October as the Classic Riders Club of Goulburn (CRCG) celebrated its 35th Annual Ride. With the theme Riding Through History, the weekend brought together motorcycle enthusiasts, beautifully presented machines, scenic country roads and, above all, the camaraderie that makes classic motorcycling such a rewarding pursuit.

Following several months of planning and preparation by a dedicated rally committee, the event unfolded over a weekend that showcased both the region's riding appeal and the club's commitment to keeping the classic motorcycle tradition alive.

A warm welcome to Goulburn

Proceedings began on Friday evening with a relaxed meet-and-greet at the Goulburn Workers Club. Riders caught up with old friends, met fellow enthusiasts and collected their rally packs ahead of Saturday's main event.

There was plenty of anticipation for the ride ahead, although the weather had kept organisers guessing throughout the week. Thankfully, the rain stayed away, setting the scene for a memorable weekend on two wheels.

Classic motorcycles back in the spotlight

Saturday morning saw around 60 enthusiastic riders gather in Montague Street, opposite Goulburn's courthouse. Under cool but sunny skies, the motorcycles provided an impressive display for both participants and passing members of the public.

The decision to return the rally to the heart of town was a deliberate one. After several years of being less visible, the club wanted to bring its motorcycles and activities back before the public eye, giving locals and visitors an opportunity to appreciate the machines and learn more about the club.

With the bikes assembled and the riders ready, the club president led the group out at 10.30am following a briefing covering the route and safety arrangements. The ride began along Goulburn's main street, giving the event one more opportunity to capture public attention before heading into the countryside.

The route followed Gurrundah Road before continuing through the Crookwell area towards the day's destination at Laggan.

Recent rain had transformed the Southern Tablelands into a picture of springtime freshness. The countryside was at its verdant best, with green paddocks, rolling hills and sweeping rural views providing a spectacular backdrop for the motorcycles.

It was the sort of riding country that reminds enthusiasts why getting out on the open road is every bit as important as the machines themselves.

A smarter approach to the route

One of the improvements introduced this year was a reduction in the number of ride marshals. Rather than having people stationed at numerous intersections, organisers placed directional signs along the route the day before the event.

The change worked well, allowing more participants to enjoy the ride instead of spending their day standing at roadside corners. There was one minor issue with the placement of signs at Laggan, providing a useful lesson for next year's organisers, but overall the revised approach proved successful.

Of course, no motorcycle event would be complete without the occasional mechanical challenge.

The club's breakdown trailer earned its keep when one entrant suffered a front-tyre puncture. The unfortunate rider became the recipient of the aptly named "First on Trailer" award, complete with a particularly appropriate trophy crafted by Howard Kneebone from motorcycle internals.

The breakdown vehicle was called into action again later in the day when Ross Luff, who had already enjoyed considerable success during the weekend, suffered a rear puncture. On this occasion, the trailer was fully occupied, with the passenger compartment also pushed to capacity.

Thanks are due to Howard and Julie Kneebone for generously making their vehicle available to support the event.

Laggan: motorcycles, lunch and trophies

Arriving at Laggan, riders parked their machines in the appropriate categories, ready for the judging to begin.

One of the highlights of the annual ride is the opportunity for fellow riders to judge the motorcycles. It creates a different atmosphere from a conventional show, with enthusiasts who understand the work, dedication and attention to detail involved in keeping older machines on the road having their say.

The judging was followed by an excellent lunch, enjoyed outdoors in the manicured gardens behind the hotel.

The publican, Stuart, was keen to support the gathering and generously donated a $150 voucher for the Publican's Choice award.

The award went to Ross Luff and his 1951 Norton, adding another accolade to what was already proving to be a successful weekend for Ross.

The quality of the trophies was another feature worth noting. Recognising that participants appreciate awards that are more than inexpensive souvenirs, the organisers have made a conscious effort to present trophies that are distinctive, well made and worth keeping.

Howard Kneebone's motorcycle-internals creation was a perfect example of this philosophy: a trophy with genuine character and a connection to the hobby that brought everyone together.

After lunch, the riders saddled up for the return journey to Goulburn via Taralga.

Once again, the Southern Tablelands delivered. From the higher hills, the views across the countryside were spectacular, while the excellent road surface made for an enjoyable ride home.

It was a fitting conclusion to a day that had combined classic machinery, good roads and the pleasure of sharing the journey with like-minded enthusiasts.

An evening of awards and camaraderie

Saturday night's dinner brought approximately 40 people together at the Goulburn Railway Bowling Club.

Over a good meal and plenty of conversation, the results of the day's judging were announced and the trophies presented. The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise the people who contribute to the club throughout the year.

One of the most significant awards was the Clubman award, presented to Ricky O'Leary for accumulating the greatest distance on regular Tuesday and Sunday club rides.

Ricky's total of 3,330 kilometres was a testament to his enthusiasm and commitment to getting out on the road.

Not every award, however, was quite so serious.

In a light-hearted moment, the writer received the "Navigationally Challenged" award in recognition of a few directional differences encountered during club events throughout the year.

It was a reminder that while route planning and navigation are important, a sense of humour is equally valuable when travelling with a group of motorcyclists.

The evening held special significance with the attendance of the Sample family, who had travelled from as far away as Queensland in honour of John Sample, a former club member who had passed away.

Their presence was a touching reminder that motorcycle clubs are about much more than machines and kilometres. They are communities built around friendships, shared experiences and memories that continue long after a ride has ended.

Sunday: a celebration of motoring history

Sunday morning brought another beautiful spring day, with around 20 riders making the trip to Tarago for the Car, Bike & Truck Show.

The event featured approximately 300 vehicles displayed across the manicured grass oval, with entertainment adding to the atmosphere. Its continued growth from year to year demonstrates the enduring public interest in classic and historic vehicles.

For the riders, it was an opportunity to enjoy another outing and take in the variety of machinery on display, extending the weekend's celebration of motoring heritage beyond motorcycles alone.

Some participants also made their way to One Raceway to watch historic motorcycle racing before the weekend's activities drew to a close.

With something for enthusiasts of different interests, Sunday provided a relaxed finish to a packed weekend.

Strong support and a promising future

By the end of the weekend, the 35th Annual Ride had proved a success, with participants enjoying the roads, the motorcycles and the opportunity to catch up with fellow enthusiasts.

Perhaps the strongest endorsement came from visiting members of the Macquarie Towns club, who were already keen to know the date of next year's event so they could plan their return.

Their impeccably prepared motorcycles were a pleasure to host, and they also enjoyed success in the awards, with Mick McCartan taking home a trophy for his immaculate Yamaha SV250 and John Stein receiving recognition for his 1974 Suzuki GT750.

Events such as this rely on far more than the people who turn up on the day. Months of preparation, careful organisation and the willingness of club members to contribute their time are essential to making a rally run smoothly.

The club owes a particular debt of gratitude to President Brad Nichol, Secretary Cherrie Thrower and the wider committee for their tireless work and commitment during a period that has brought considerable change and its share of challenges.

Their efforts helped deliver a weekend that celebrated not only the history of motorcycling but also the enduring value of a strong, welcoming club.

As the final motorcycles headed home, the 35th Annual Ride had once again demonstrated what makes these gatherings special: the opportunity to ride great roads, admire remarkable machines, share stories and strengthen friendships.

For the Classic Riders Club of Goulburn, Riding Through History was more than a theme. It was a celebration of the machines, the people and the traditions that keep classic motorcycling alive.