Hunter Midweek in the Mountains
15 January 2016 / Story: Liam Price Photos: Greg Unger
Like the weather on the day, the run was a wild ride that provoked every sensation of driving an open top roadster. Morning tea at Beresfield Hungry Jacks kicked off the day with a spot of discussion about the adventure ahead. Fresh faces were a bound for team Hunter; 3 Sydney members and a guest pleasantly accompanied us. I’d like to thank the father and daughter team of Andreas Purnomo and his daughter Andrea in there black hardtop NC as well as fellow Sydney member Greg Unger in the classic red NB8A along with his guest Peter Asquith.
The 136 km run catered to all aspects of MX-5 ownership whether it be a relaxing sightseeing drive or a fun fast paced adventure through the curves.
Karl started the run with a leisurely cruise along the Pacific highway enjoying the open road ahead with the wind blowing in our hair (for those daring enough to enjoy 40 degree heat!). After a stint of highway driving, the scenic countryside of the Hunter Valley provided some beautiful eye candy to relish in. Conversation of the day most notably revolved around Karl’s fishing on the Karuah River and the 10 storey tallest residential property in Australia located on the back road between Stroud and Bulahdelah. After a spot of sightseeing, spirited driving occurred as members carved through tight bends unleashing the MX-5’s ability in Wotton’s Way. Into the hills of Bulahdelah, momentum driving proved key to conquering the road ahead, with a high speed limit. The road was thoroughly enjoyable in the same guise as the old pacific highway for Sydney drivers.
Following the sprint through the Nurburgring of the Hunter Valley, we stopped for a quick breather to discuss the road less travelled by. Cameras abound, as everyone jumped for the photo opportunity of all the MX-5s lined up on the day.
Karl offered me the opportunity to take his Limited Edition NC sporting a stainless steel exhaust system, white line sway bars and Bilstein shocks. In return he took my NB8B for the return drive to Bulahdelah. A refreshing exchange for Karl, who had previously owned a beautiful British Racing Green NB8A. This opportunity gave me time to reflect on the driving experience offered by the NC in comparison to my NB. I was pleasantly surprised by the power difference between both cars; the NC had the perfect amount of power for an MX-5. Yes it might not be as light, or as raw. However any shortcomings in terms of weight difference were easily disregarded as I hunkered down and let loose through the corners, easily chewing up the road ahead. As for which car I would take home given the opportunity to? Well blindfold me and do eeny, meeny, miny, moe either way I’d go home smiling.
Finally our mid-day adventure concluded to basking in the cool of an air-conditioned room, served with refreshing drinks and a tasty lunch at the Plough Inn Hotel in Bulahdelah.
Thank you to Karl for organising such a great run, I won’t forget it.
Greg Ungers photos HERE
Karl and Jonathons photos HERE
