TAMWORTH was thrumming with activity this weekend as thousands of Harleys roared into the city for the biggest HOG rally Australia has seen.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The Harley Owners Group (HOG) rally saw almost 2500 riders descend on the country music capital, with bikers from every corner of Australia and international visitors from the US, the UK, South Africa and Indonesia.
A throng of locals flocked to Peel St to watch a constant stream of Harleys ride in the iconic HOG Thunder Run yesterday.
The route started at AELEC, travelled down Peel St and snaked over Bridge St, then coursing through Currabubula, Werris Creek and Quirindi before looping back.
Harley Davidson Australia customer experience manager Gaz Luxmoore was one of the rally organisers and attendees.
“It’s been an absolutely spectacular weekend,” Mr Luxmoore said.
“It’s the biggest rally we’ve ever had in Australia.”
He said every chapter rode into the AELEC complex waving their flag in an Olympic-like display ahead of the Country Spectacular on Saturday evening.
The combination of Harley Davidson motorcycles working alongside horses for tricks and shows was a stunning sight, as was the country rodeo and sheep shearing that thrilled some metropolitan Harley lovers.
HOG North West NSW chapter director Jackie Hudson was one of the lead riders of the Thunder Run.
“It’s been awesome ... they have had a ball,” Ms Hudson said.
She said the rally was a chance for Harley owners from all over to have a taste of the region’s countryside, with three planned trips out to Nundle, Uralla, and Lake Keepit via Manilla.
“They loved the little country roads, they just thought it was perfect,” she said.
Destination Tamworth economic development and destination manager Craig Dunstan said
the almost 2500-strong crowd would amount to a $1 million boost for the city.
Mr Dunstan said most had come with just what they have on their bikes, so they were reliant on the town for accommodation and they frequented shops and cafes over the weekend.
He said the event was “something for locals to see and do” as well as “great exposure” for Tamworth, which already boasted a strong brand after 43 years of country music.
Mr Luxmoore thanked the Tamworth community for their warmth and hospitality during the rally.
View our photo gallery at www.northerndailyleader.com.au
