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Shepparton bikers brave cold for epic first ride

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Shepparton VIC Riders had a large turnout of bikes and their riders on its first group ride to Colbinabbin at the weekend. Photo by Martin Boyd

A new Shepparton motorcycle group hosted its first group ride on the weekend with a large turnout, considering the icy cold weather and fog.

The group formed virtually on Facebook as Shepparton VIC riders about a month ago and came together in person for the first time on Sunday, meeting at Bill & Beats Cafe in Mooroopna for coffee, before venturing to the Colbinabbin silo art site and the Colbinabbin Hotel for lunch, via a picturesque Rushworth route.

Members from Shepparton VIC Riders made their way from Mooroopna to the Colbinabbin Hotel for lunch on Sunday, June 23. Photo by Denise Nichols

“The thunder of the motorcycles filled the air with riders pouring in from all directions, showcasing the beautiful diversity in bikes and riders,” group admin Jolene Doller said.

She said the atmosphere was “electric” as seasoned riders caught up with old friends and new riders established bonds over shared biking passions. All kinds of bikes joined the convoy, from tourers, sports bikes and cruisers to vintage beasts and adventure bikes.

A bond between riders of the new Shepparton VIC Riders motorcycle group was forged during their first ride together on Sunday, June 23. Photo by Jolene Doller

Ms Doller said the stops along the way provided opportunities for conversation, allowing riders to continue getting to know each other.

“The camaraderie among the group was truly special, with laughter and stories flowing freely,” she said.

Ms Doller said a rider named Bill, who was used to riding solo, had lent a helping hand to a fellow rider along the way.

Bikes of all makes and models, all shapes and sizes, line McLennan St, Mooroopna ahead of Shepparton VIC Riders group’s inaugural ride. Photo by Shane Martin

Admins didn’t want his act of kindness to go unnoticed, so awarded him with a prize: a universal recycled honeycomb seat cover that wicks rain away, takes the sting out of a hot seat and provides air to the “nether regions” while riding.

She said Bill was stoked with the award, while admins were also thrilled with the way the day ran and the behaviour of the group.

“The sense of community and support among the riders was truly heartwarming,” Ms Doller said.

Rider Pat O’Brien said it was a “good meal, great company and good ride”.

“May there be many more rides to come,” he said.

Rider Johnny Ross said it was great to see a few old friends.

“What an awesome show of riders,” he said.

Bikes of all makes and models, all shapes and sizes, carried their riders to a couple of different stops on Shepparton VIC Riders group’s inaugural ride, meeting at first in Mooroopna. Photo by Shane Martin

The group made its way back to Mooroopna from Colbinabbin, via Murchison.

Shepparton VIC Riders invites local motorcycle riders of all ages, genders and riding abilities to join its Facebook group to find out about upcoming rides, or to phone group founder Aaron Williams on 0449 023 089.