Social

June 5, 2019

Denmark 2019

Early arrivals
Our annual June long weekend getaway got off to an early start with twelve early arrivals in Denmark on Thursday. Three of the four caravans came early and had set up on adjacent sites where they welcomed six more from nearby cabins to their cosy circle on the first evening. Extra chairs and stools were gathered while Marj rustled up an antipasto plate and “refreshments” were shared all round. Tours of the new vans bought oohs and aahs from the ladies while the men compared technical notes and their adventures in towing and parking. It was a lovely relaxing start to the weekend.
Friday shopping
On Friday morning the girls “coincidentally” met at the shops where Christine was subsequently blamed for any purchases. Try-ons and comments resulted in Julie and Christine each choosing the same scarf (check-up calls required before our next joint outing). With the remaining arrivals in the day it was time for pre-dinner drinks on the balcony of Graeme, Christine and Elizabeth’s chalet, then on to the Denmark Tavern for a hearty dinner, (more than many could finish). Great service and venue! Maybe it was the fresh air but we were all ready for an early night.
A day at leisure
Relaxing on Saturday, everyone pottered around and checked out the local attractions – Swiss Annies Chocolate Lounge, various wineries, concerts at the Festival of Voice and for the extra keen, more walks in and around the Denmark. Night time, on with the glad rags and off to the Pepper and Salt Restaurant for pre-dinner Forest Hill Estate wine tasting with sommelier Peter. Then we all trouped upstairs for a gourmet dinner. Chef Silas welcomed our party of twenty with a personalised service and description of our three course meal. We had the restaurant to ourselves and the blazing fire encouraged plenty of mixing and jovial banter well into the night.

The Long Walk
And on Sunday morning – the reason for our trip – our walkers assembled bright and early for the bus trip out to the starting points of our walks. The especially fit and enthusiastic Ken, Chris, Marj, Kevin, Pam, Kerrie took the Bibbulmun track high road, (a more challenging and hilly 8.5kms). They surprised a young couple as they rounded a bend – he had just proposed – the young woman was bursting with excitement and happy to share her news, “we have just become engaged.“ A beautiful day and setting for them – and for us. The second team, Graeme, Elizabeth, Tracy, Ross, Mary, Ros, Kerry, Faye, Leonie, Julie B, Julie Z and Christine took the 8.5km Wilderness Ocean Walk – a presumably easier more undulating walk – although some may dispute that description.
Both groups met for lunch at the Ocean Beach carpark before heading off on the second half of the walk – which was an additional 8kms on the Bibbulmun track. The temptation of the Eagles game or a quiet relaxing time on the balcony enjoying the view of the estuary, meant six departed at lunchtime with chauffeur Wayne. Another bonus for the twelve who did the extra kilometres, was to see a magnificent view of Green’s Pool and Elephant Rocks before climbing on to the homeward bound bus. The weary trampers were soon rejuvenated and ready for dinner at the Boston Brewery where aches could be compared and a sense of achievement enjoyed.

Monday Stayers
While some had to return on Monday for work and other commitments, a lucky fourteen remained for lunch at The Lakehouse. They hoped to miss the heavy traffic by returning on Tuesday. A final chilly night gathering with the caravaners to finish off cheese and wine supplies was a fitting finale to a fantastic weekend.
Bill, Karen, Ann and Joanne were missed but they are heading off on a bigger adventure – cycling in Europe. Eva, Nancy and John are even further afield in Europe and currently walking the Camino trail – no excuses next year gang
Thankyou
This highlight on the Y Striders calendar could not have happened without the contribution of some key members. Last September, Kevin, Pam, Nancy, John, Karen, Faye and Bill completed the early reconnaissance of the tracks in the area. Tracy excelled with her choice and booking arrangements for all of the restaurants. Graeme and Elizabeth with their years of previous planning experience were often consulted. As always, this was a true and selfless collaboration by the team for the benefit of all members. The seamless planning, along with the magnificent weather, made a wonderful and memorable weekend.

Christine H

December 19, 2018

2018 Christmas Breakfast

Joanne Freeman Social 0

The last session of the year for 2018 was definitely one for the books!

Y Striders arrived dressed in Christmas attire and instead of the usual run or walk options, this morning was different. Head Trainer Deb R, had music blasting and suddenly we were off…doing Zumba! The skill level ranged dramatically and it was an entertaining 20 minutes of exercise.

Next, we adjourned to the clubrooms where President Ken took us through the more formal aspects of the morning. This involved thanking the committee and club members and reflecting on all of the great activities and events that Y Striders had been associated with throughout the year.

Deb R followed with very amusingly titled awards for many of the Y Striders who had distinguished themselves in various ways throughout the year. These awards were well earned. They highlighted the different types of involvement and commitment of so many Y Striders.

Deb also announced the winners of the “Great Wall of China” challenge. The team, Kung Pao, winners were Nancy, Carolyn, Jatinder, Ros, Julie, Chris, Rosie, Sue M-T and Malcolm. They were the first group to collectively walk or run 560 kilometres over 4 weeks. Well done!

The Brian Cook Award is designed to highlight the achievements of the Y Strider who has shown “personal commitment and club contribution over the year”. This year the award was presented to two people:

Ros C for her tireless dedication as ambassador for the group. Ros takes on many tasks associated with new members and the 4 weeks trial period. She sends the emails to group members and oversees the Saturday morning tea at the clubrooms. Plus, Ros is always out walking, encouraging others to do so, and competing in events throughout the year. Congratulations Ros on a well-deserved award.

Kevin A is also tireless contributor to the club. Among his many achievements; he has been instrumental in helping the committee with constitutional matters, completing many jobs for the club and conducting reconnaissance for “away” walks to ensure that they are Y Strider friendly. He was instrumental in preparing the committee for the September Open Days and actively researched and negotiated with the City of Melville and others for grant applications and marketing. Congratulations Kevin on your well-deserved award.

Following a nomination by Kevin A and unanimous approval by the 2019 Committee, the Club’s most prestigious Life Membership award was presented to Julie B . Julie has been a member of Y Striders for 18 years and Treasurer on the Executive Committee for 17½ years, working tirelessly to ensure financial stability. Julie energetically takes on extra duties and is rigorous in her approach to the club’s finances. The club is in a stable and secure financial position due to her careful ministrations. Congratulations Julie, for all your hard work and positive approach to problem solving.

Lastly, we thanked our industrious trainers: Deb R, Anita A, Natasha T and Celeste G. They are a dedicated group who make our training sessions valuable and focused. Under their tutelage we continue to improve and develop our strengths and skills.

Thanks to all committee members and their helpers for making this club such a warm and welcoming organisation.

With the formalities completed, club members and trainers had time to enjoy the beautiful breakfast. It was an eloquent and satisfying end to the year. Thanks to all Y Striders for your humour, good will and competitive natures as you have made all sessions and activities exciting and rewarding. We all look forward to 2019 and the fun and challenges ahead.

December 5, 2018

Christmas Lights Trail 2018

Joanne Freeman Social 0

Any chance of our Christmas Lights Trail being a “silent night” were quickly lost as Y Striders gathered at The Lucky Shag on the banks of the Swan River. A tasty meal was enjoyed as club members prepared for the walk ahead. Soon a large group of “merry gentlemen” and ladies were ready to head off into the city.
It was an occasion to wear Christmas themed attire: Santa hats, shorts, elf ears and a wide variety of T shirts prevailed. Only one person arrived dressed as a Christmas present! Thanks Chris, for amusing us with your strategically placed ribbon. Graham shone a “star” as he bedazzled with his Christmas clothing. He was definitely the winner of the prize for the most innovative Christmas outfit!
Team work was needed as enthusiastic club members looked at the light installations and attempted to answer the many quiz questions. One question even involved a run/walk for an extra kilometre to get an answer. There were occasional stops for further Christmas questions and answers. We knew who were “naughty or nice” as correct answers were rewarded with prizes made of chocolate!
After the brief food stop at Forrest Place team members were summoned by Santa Dave’s whistle to continue on their Christmas Quest. We finally arrived at our destination of Yagan Square. Here prizes were awarded to the teams with the highest score. Well done, Ken and team for being first.
Although a cool and blustery night, teams performed well. Only Christine found the time to shop for a thick down jacket! Great for the night air but also perfect for her upcoming winter holiday. “Let it Snow!”
It was an engaging and entertaining evening. All teams did well and it was great fun to be sharing the “comfort and joy” with such a lovely group of people.
Thank you, Susan and Dave for all of your hard work in doing the initial walk through, then preparing the amusing and challenging quiz questions. You led us through the city, rounded us up and kept us on track when we were easily distracted. You certainly “believed in the magic”. Elves, Pam and Kevin were enthusiastic helpers, who kept up the challenges with lots of questions along the way.
Thank you to all the participants in the mighty quiz. Thank you to all Y Striders and may your Christmas be “merry and bright”.

October 31, 2018

Twilight Walk 2018

Joanne Freeman Social social, stroll, Walk 1

It was a sight to see! Forty enthusiastic Y Striders who were very happy to spend a mild Sunday afternoon completing the annual Twilight Walk.
We really felt summer was around the corner when we met in the car park near Burswood at 5pm last Sunday. The weather was warm, the sun about to set and city skyline striking.
Many of us hadn’t been to this part of the river foreshore since the East Perth redevelopment. It was a real eye opener and a pleasure to see so many families enjoying picnics in the parks and children’s playgrounds at Optus Stadium.
There is one group of Y Striders who are very familiar with part of the city. The Striders Riders, led by Bill, bike ride of a Friday morning. They often ride from Deep Water Point up around the new parks and across to East Perth, where they stop for coffee before riding back.
They confidently led the assorted striders, strollers and stragglers around and over the Windan Bridge through the suburb and parkland, and then over the brand new Matagarup Bridge. For many of us this was our first time walking across this beautiful bridge. (5.5kms)
By then, the Camfield Hotel was in sight and as it was a warm evening, most were keen for the opportunity to get inside. Cool drinks and generously portioned meals were quickly ordered and consumed.
It was delightful to sit with the Matagarup Bridge in view, watch the sun go down and enjoy the company of like-minded Y Striders.
Everyone enjoyed the evening so much that we are already looking forward to our next excursion – a Christmas lights trail. As always, our very social and lively club members were able to combine exercise and relaxation in one outing.
Many thanks to our social coordinator Ann for organising this enjoyable evening.

Christine H

October 3, 2018

Bunbury 2018

Joanne Freeman Social, Travel Bunbury, Marri Walk 1

A Spring in our Step for Spring

Beautiful spring weather greeted the Y Striders for our Bunbury Long Weekend. Many hadn’t visited Bunbury for a while and we were quite impressed with all the new developments, especially around Koombana Bay where most stayed.

In true Striders style there was plenty of socializing with food involved: starting with early bird arrivals meeting for fish and chips at Aristos on the foreshore on Friday evening. Then, Saturday night at the lovely old Rose Hotel and Sunday at Nicola’s Restaurant, (thanks to Deb A for booking) – all very enjoyable.

We had morning and afternoon strolls around the Estuary with lots of bird spotting (thanks Ros and Judy). This inevitably detoured via a coffee stop in the morning and a pub in the afternoon.

Of course the main event is our Sunday walk – 10 kms around the Marri Walk near Dardanup. Bill lead the team out at a brisk pace, with several double backs to check the wildflower appreciators, (otherwise known as the Y Strollers). Graeme helped again as Tail-end Charlie. It was a bit warmer than expected, but the sunshine and wildflowers were enjoyed by all. Some felt a cooling ale at the Dardanup Tavern on the way back was a fitting reward for our efforts.

Thanks to Kevin and Pam, (still tripping in Ireland), Nancy and John and Bill for their reccy trip and planning earlier in the year – always the key to a successful walk and trip away. Bill’s enthusiasm for extra activities and walks was a bonus and a reminder of how our shared exercise and socializing makes fitness fun.

Christine

August 22, 2018

Darryl’s Bacon & Egg Strider Muffins August 2018

Joanne Freeman Social Fitness, run, Walk 1

Darryl’s Bacon and Egg Strider Muffins
The word went out that Darryl’s Bacon and Egg Strider Muffins would be served for breakfast at the annual Y Striders Incorporated Fun Run! No further encouragement was needed for the fitness gurus. They signed up to walk, jog or run the 12km distance from Bicton to Fremantle and back again. And all because of Darryl’s famous Bacon and Egg Muffins!
Training began in earnest. Cold and wet at that time of the year, it takes dedication to stay motivated and on target, so the focus for the participants is on knowing that the Strider Muffins will be there at the end.
Years of muffin making has honed Darryl’s ability to get it right! He has his list for the required equipment, and another list for groceries. The day before the event, he shops, packs and organises himself. He will need 6 dozen English Muffins, 6 dozen free-range eggs, 2 kgs bacon and 3 big bunches of spinach for those who don’t eat bacon. He needs egg rings, tongs, foil, oil, serviettes, tomato sauce, butter, toasters, frypans and all manner of paraphernalia.
Arriving early on the day of the Fun Run, tables are set up, the barbeque is heated, English Muffins are split in half and toasted, spinach is washed and wilted, and just before the walkers and runners start to arrive, Darryl dons a chef’s coat and hat! It creates a lot of laughter as it is intended as a joke and a little bit of theatre. His team of volunteers assembles and wraps each individual muffin while he keeps everyone entertained with his skill on the barbeque.
Y Striders members love this annual event! Not just for the pleasure of exercising along the foreshore of the beautiful Swan River, or for being out in the fresh air in the company of like-minded people – but because there is the anticipation of something good at the end of the run! A time to reflect on their amazing achievement as well as one or two of Darryl’s Bacon and Egg Strider Muffins!
Elizabeth

July 18, 2018

21st Birthday Celebration

Joanne Freeman Social Fitness, friendship 0

Boom diddy…..Boom diddy…..Goodness Gracious Me –
Many of us are still humming the tunes performed by our many talented members at the Y Striders 21st Birthday Dinner held at Glen Iris Country Club on Sunday night.
Past and present presidents Chris and Ken started with a memory defying rendition of “I’ve Been Everywhere” – first performed to much merriment on our recent club trip to Tasmania.
I hear that British Airways are looking for two runaway hosties – Ann and Elspeth – flying high songbirds combining class and comedy in equal measure with operatic flight and safety instructions. The Flower Duet from Lakme may never seem the same to me again 
Donald (AKA Brian) was right at home in Glen Iris as a kilt wearing balladeer with a shock of red hair and “no troosers” it seems.
Doctor Dave and his amorous patient Ann, finished with “Goodness Gracious Me” – (still ringing in my ears) Women were lining up to see Doctor Dave who said he could be available for 6 minute consultations at $60 if needed.
Everyone was feeling pretty relaxed and happy by dessert so it was time to get them to open up their wallets for our annual fundraising auction. A rare vintage of red, bottled 10 years ago at a Y Strider long weekend, has become a much sought after memento of our club spirit. It has been acknowledged as “Too Special”, (read undrinkable), to open, so last year’s successful bidder, John W, generously added a Penfolds Grange to the Y Strider Cab Sav making it a double winner. Spirited bidding saw previous years’ records topple as John and Kerry T continued the tradition of John and Nancy W, (husband and wife bidding against each other), to take the wines home for $90 – let’s hope John doesn’t drink the wrong bottle
Food and service at Glen Iris was great – thank you Social Secretary Ann for organizing, secretary Elizabeth for advertising and co-ordinating, and treasurer Julie B for collecting and disbursing funds.
Like herding cats, president Ken kept proceedings on track and on time and started the night with a thank you to the four founding members who were present – Elizabeth, Darryl, Ros and Karen – all still walking and very active members in club affairs.
Friendship, care and support is often demonstrated in our club and for Birgit and Iris recent accident and health setbacks have shown again our club spirit. Ken outlined the benefits of belonging to a club.
A feeling that members have of belonging
A feeling that members matter to one another and to the group
A shared faith that member’s needs will be met through their commitment to one another
Our strength is we care not just about our physical health but the emotional health of our members.
So a toast to our 21 year old club – From Strength to Strength – In Spirit, Health and Numbers.
Christine H

June 6, 2018

Augusta 2018

Elizabeth Turton News, Social, Travel 2

Augusta – where two oceans meet!

Welcome – We met at the Augusta Hotel on Friday night for a pub meal and a noisy chin-wag, excited to see each other and full of anticipation for the weekend ahead.
Saturday – free choice – Some decided to descend into the depths of a very challenging cave tour, others walked the picturesque 7kms ‘ocean walk’, while Christine and Jenny walked the entire 12kms distance to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse (Colin and Graeme came to the rescue and collected them in the car).
Saturday night – dinner at Hamelin Bay Winery was tapas style, delivered platter by platter. We started to think that we might be going home hungry! As the night progressed and eleven platters later, there was no way we would go home hungry! The wine was excellent and somehow cartons of it found their way into the boots of our cars. Our amazing group laughed and joked their way through the evening.
Sunday – another section of the Cape to Cape Trail. We have of course repeated some walks on this trail but overall, our tally is a total of 97kms! The Cape to Cape trail is only 131kms long, so it is a great achievement by Y Striders. The long walk is perfectly described by Nancy W…….
“An awesome day! A group of 38 Y Striders walking a 15km section of the Cape to Cape trail enjoying the majesty of our amazing landscape on WA’s celebratory long weekend. Photographically, clouds wrote poetry across an expansive sky, the sea whipped waves, ancient grass trees; tall and graceful in their Ra-ra skirts, wowed and later, tall Karri canopied our way. From Redgate Beach to Conto’s Campground and into the Boranup Forest, the diversity in terrain was wonderful. We walked in friendship and delight, thankful for this awesome day”.
Nancy

Sunday night – farewell BBQ and debrief in Turners Caravan Park camp kitchen followed by a Karaoke hour (or two) in one of the apartments. This singalong and performance by Chris B and Brian P was the culmination of yet another successful June weekend.
Monday stayers – First there was a HIIT session at 6am and then lunch at the Glenarty Road Kerfuffle Winery. Twenty people enjoyed a ‘Paddock to Plate’ experience in a rustic setting where they like to do things a little differently. The Beef Ragu was amazing! Many of us intend returning there again.

Late Leavers on Tuesday – The last of the group trickled out of Augusta in a wild storm that thrashed the south west coast. Care had to be taken negotiating trees that had fallen across the road.
THANK YOU
It all came together beautifully! From Bill’s lightbulb moment, “I think that Augusta might be nice,” to months of organisation before finally spending three days of celebration in the most south western town of our state. None of this could have happened without the combined effort of six people who conducted the original reconnaissance in September last year and who were all on hand on the weekend to ensure that everything went smoothly. It started with a weekend of investigation in Augusta – accommodation, eating places, activities and actually walking the proposed trails.
I want to thank Graeme G, who researched the accommodation and provided you with a well-informed selection to choose from. Graeme also organised the Cave Tour, the bus transport for the long walk and assisted me in my research into eating establishments.
I want to thank Pam, Kevin and Bill for finding just the right walk that was suitable for everyone, for providing us with comprehensive walk notes, and Darryl for driving them to and from each of their destinations over two days of research. On the day of the long walk, it was Kevin and Bill who took control of the lead and the tail end so that no one got lost.
And then there were our resident musicians! I want to thank Chris B and Brian P who provided a wonderful Karaoke music night, complete with all the associated paraphernalia for Karaoke – a computer, screen, microphone, guitars and a spaghetti junction of criss-crossing wires.
I would also like to thank Ross and Colin who generously drove their vehicles back and forth with the people who only wanted to do the short walk. Without their help, some people would not have been able to participate.
But best of all, the success of the weekend can be measured by the enthusiasm of the 42 people who participated in all of the activities. Thank you everyone!
Elizabeth

January 3, 2018

New Years Eve 2017

Karen Castle Social 0

Y Striders gathered at Bathers Beach again this New Years Eve to watch the sun disappear into the Indian Ocean for the last time in 2017. There was plenty of chatting, eating and drinking in a very relaxed and informal setting. Our attentions were distracted briefly when a rat was spotted darting in and out of the Kidogo building. After the sunset most folk went back to Eva and Brendon’s house for more chatting, eating, drinking and a bit of dancing. Numbers started to thin out a bit, however, a few hardy souls made it to midnight. No sooner had ‘Auld Lang Syne’ finished when the rest packed and headed home. Thanks to Eva and Brendon for inviting us to their home.

Karen, thanks to Christine for the photos

December 20, 2017

Wind-up for 2017

Karen Castle News, Social 0

Our final session for 2017 started with a Zumba warm-up led by Deb, dressed in our finest Christmas outfits we tested our dancing skills and I think we may have even stayed in time for a little while. After a casual stroll breakfast appeared, as usual, members supplied a feast which was enjoyed by everyone.
Ann conducted a sing-a-long, all members participated in a flawless rendition of ‘Twelve days of Christmas’ complete with actions. There were awards presented by Deb and Anita for various talents and attributes, e.g. the ‘Yackety Yak’ award and the ‘Back in the day’ award. The ‘Yackety Yak’ award resulted in a tie between Eva and Julie B, and I’m sure there were a host of runners-up. The more serious award, the Brian Cook award went to Bill Swalling for his efforts at the club and his commitment to fitness, and encouraging others.
The end of year challenge was won by Team 5, Bill, Joan, Chris, Kerry, Leonie, Mary and Darryl and there may have been some others who weren’t at the breakfast. The Christmas Hamper went to Julie Z (runner up Christine) and the raffle of Elizabeth’s cook book went to Nola (runner up Eva). Tension built as Chase the Ace went down to 10 cards left in the pack and was eventually won by Karen.

Our incoming club President, Ken (and Deb), invited all members to a Soiree at their home the same afternoon and again members supplied a feast. We all enjoyed the beautiful surroundings of the garden, great company and it was a lovely way to finish the year. Many thanks to Ken and Deb for hosting this event.

Karen