The 2012 BMW TS Safari was a fantastic success with over 135 BMW riders on a diverse range of BMW models, enjoying a week of perfect weather as well as the magnificent roads and scenery that feature on The Great Dividing Range. Between Bathurst and Queensland’s Sunshine Coast the riders experienced the best motorcycling roads Australia can offer.
This year’s Safari set out from Mt Panorama on a cold but sunny Monday morning after the previous evening celebrating the start of the journey at the traditional Welcome Function, held at the magnificent National Motor Racing Museum. With over 40 historic motorcycles and 30 cars on show, the function set the scene for what was to be a memorable TS Safari.
The meticulously planned route took riders on iconic Australian roads. Thunderbolts Way, Bucketts Way, Oxley Highway, and the Lions Road to mention but a few. Through countless sweeping bends, flowing rivers, lush farmland, towering forests and historic towns and villages, the riders made the most of their week on the open road.
From high up on the Great Divide during the day, the Safari made its way to a different location on the coast each night ahead of a well earned drink and dinner with friends both new and old. The Safari attracts riders from around the country. There were some on their first Safari and others took great delight in catching up with friends they have met on previous trips.
Ian Anderson, from Warneet in Victoria, is a legendary Safarist having been to every TS Safari since the events inception in 1994.
The panniers of his 1993 R 1100 RS proudly carry the stickers from each event. The ladies were represented well on this year’s event with about 9 riders and 24 pillions, all having a great time. The youngest participant was 25 years old, with the oldest being 85 year-old George Phillips from Sydney. He only took up riding in his 60’s but has made the most of it since then on his R 1100 RT.
The half-way point was reached at Port Macquarie where the half way point dinner introduced riders to some of those on the Safari including General Manager BMW Motorrad Australia and New Zealand, Tony Sesto. “The TS Safari is a great event. Beautiful roads and more importantly riders enjoying their BMW motorcycles and the mateship of other BMW enthusiasts. It is a must for all BMW riders to do at least once” said Tony.
After a sensational week of riding and socialising, the TS Safari drew to a close at the Novotel Twin Waters Resort near Maroochydore. The farewell dinner marked the end of this amazing journey, and for many, the expectation of catching up with friends made this year at the next BMW Motorrad TS Safari is definitely something they are all looking forward to.
The 2012 GS Safari commences in Ballina on September 16 and finishes on September 21. For this and more BMW Safari info go to www.bmwsafari.com