A ride around Lake Hamilton

A great day weatherwise. Sunny, light breeze, up to 26C.

I had decided to take a look at Hamilton today and then, after riding the gravel lake trail, clean and oil the chain.

It was a shared path made of reasonable gravel – for the most part. When there was a hole to fill though a few barrowloads of large gravel have been thrown at the problem. The trike just stuck in those spots. Front wheels dug in and rear spinning.

All obstacles considered it was a good ride taken at a saunter.

A few dog walkers, baby pushers and one pusher plus 2 dogs were met along the way. The latter advised snakes are about so she has her work cut out to watch toddler, manage pushchair and keep an eye on the dogs!

The lake supports a goodly number of birds. Seen today and tecognised were : magpies, ravens, perwees, Willie wagtails, coots, herons, musk ducks, brown ducks and masked lapwings.

After the lake explore it was time to head for the regional Art Gallery

Inside there was an exhibition of a glass blower’s work. Large pieces, multi coloured, with a basket weave like effect flowing through some. How are they made? I want one. Difficult to carry!

There is an Howard Arkley in their collection. One of his iconic works featuring an older suburban home with grassed front yard. What would he have made of today’s mansions with their entry porticoes?

When I lived in Deloraine I used to cycle with Rob Arkley amongst others. Rob told me his brother was Howard A. At that time I was unaware of Howard and his work so my initial response was not the one Rob was looking for. Rob could only show me art gallery postcards and a book of Howard’s work, so to see one full size under gallery light was really something. His air brush technique and medium control really makes the painting glow as if with defused light emanating from it.

After the Gallery I went for a walk around town. All the time wondering why, as the streets are so narrow, hasn’t a one way system been implemented? I can see benefits including an easier life for pedestrians and posibly providing space for cyclists.

And then I came upon this:

I have been suggesting such a notice board for somewhere in Longford. The Council and shopping centre people see only problems with the idea. I shall send them the details of this version to start the next round of talks.

While taking in the lake circuit, a chunk of gravel stuck in the chain idler wheel, jammed the chain and unseated the tubes through which the chain travels. Could have been worse but, as I was sauntering, no parts broken or unfixable damage done. It did remind me the chain needed attention. I cleaned it (using Baby Wipes – thanks for the idea Colin) and then put a drop of oil on each link. Hopefully that will help the gear change action.

I also got a load of washing done so all is well and things are set up for the next leg.