2018 GS Safari explored Australian High Country
Over 220 GS riders took on the mountainous terrain and trails of the Australian High Country. Before the event in Jindabyne, NSW, over 70 riders embraced the opportunity to participate in BMW Off Road Training to assist with improving their confidence and skills before the event.
On hand at BMW Off Road Training were Head Instructors, Shane Booth and Chris Urquhart with the special assistance of VIP Instructor – Isle of Man TT legend Cameron Donald. Showcasing their technique and skills, the team of instructors assisted riders in preparing for the big adventure to come.
DAY 1: THREDBO – BRIGHT
Following Off Road Training, the GS Safari kicked off in Thredbo, NSW with the traditional BMW Safari Welcome Dinner. Held in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, the function welcomed Safari riders, new and old, and preparing them with advice and tips for the week to come.
The next morning, riders woke to crisp and cool temperatures in the alpine town of Thredbo. With anticipation and excitement, it was time to drop off their luggage at the support truck as they commenced the first day’s riding of the 2018 BMW GS Safari.
Travelling through Lucyvale, riders had a chance to stop off at the Mount Benambra Look Out, taking in the sights of the Australian High Country and Lake Dartmouth.
DAY 2: TRAILS SURROUNDING BRIGHT
The second day of the 2018 BMW GS Safari began with a loop day exploring the trails surrounding Bright and Mount Beauty. This stage was particularly challenging, as riders faced a steep climb up to Mount Emu. The ride along dry and dusty tracks tested both riders and staff as they made their journey to the summit.
The second loop of the day involved a further challenging course over Demon Ridge. Participants finished the day with beers and the rider briefing at Bright Brewery, with many happy to have got through a day of difficult and technical adventure riding.
DAY 3: BRIGHT TO MANSFIELD
After two nights in Bright, exploring the trails and mountainous tracks of the region, riders made their way to another highlight destination of the Victorian High Country – Mansfield.
Day 3 took riders through the iconic Goldie Spur and Lake Buffalo. The group stopped off at Whitfield for some morning tea before making the journey to Mansfield.
In Mansfield, riders spent the evening listening to a BMW Safari first, “Tech Talks”. In Mansfield’s talk, riders listened to BMW Motorrad Service Manager, Craig Bennett, discuss the importance of motorcycle maintenance and how to change a tyre.
DAY 4: MANSFIELD TO LAKES ENTRANCE
After a relaxing night in Mansfield, riders prepared for the longest and penultimate leg of the 2018 GS Safari, travelling east to Lakes Entrance. This stage provided challenging, dusty and difficult terrain yet was a highlight for many riders, encouraging them to step up to the challenge and improve their skills.
Travelling through Mount Skene along one of Victoria’s highest gravel roads, riders ventured through Tamboritha and Briagalong before making their way to Lakes Entrance through the back roads of Bruthen.
DAY 5: LAKES ENTRANCE TO THREDBO
Exploring the picturesque region of Lakes Entrance, riders prepared for the final stage of the adventure: the return ride to Thredbo. For many participants, this was a bittersweet end to a challenging week. It was a chance to celebrate their achievements, yet it was an end to a fantastic week of motorcycling and new friendships.
Day 5 was the finale to a week of motorcycling adventure.
The 220 riders made their return to the alpine region across the iconic Bonang Highway, renowned for motorcycling. Crossing Mackillop’s Bridge and passing through the Barry Way, the group took in the stunning scenery of the Snowy Mountains before riding the final kilometres of the trip.
Once all riders had made it back to Thredbo, it was time to celebrate with a group photo and farewell dinner at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel.
Featuring a 3-course dinner and prize giving, the group of 220 riders displayed their generosity, donating over $5000 to the Royal Flying Doctors Service – a BMW Safari record.
Nigel Harvey
“BMW Safari is renowned for being one of the most professional and well-organised tours in the industry, providing pure motorcycle adventure for GS riders. The 2018 GS Safari was no different, and we are pleased to have been able to provide an awesome experience for our customers, encouraging them to ride their motorcycles in great locations and hopefully improve their off-road techniques.”
BMW Motorrad Australia is proud to provide an opportunity for BMW motorcyclists to be part of a community of like-minded riders. We look forward to the next adventure: the 2018 BMW GS Safari Enduro in Tasmania this October. For further information on BMW Safari, please visit bmwsafari.com (link)
