Another very early start this morning, Geoff & Alex were at my place by about 6.30am and John picked us up shortly thereafter for another trip up to Orange.

A short stop in Lithgow to grab a large coffee, and then it was next stop Turner's Vineyard. We had an appointment with the management there to sort things out regarding our use of the venue as Nationals HQ. Fortunately, everyone was happy with the outcome and it's now full steam ahead. They want us to start publicising that they can take bookings now, and they will offer all participants the corporate/NRMA rate.

There are 42 rooms that suit between 2 and 6 people. Get 'em while they're hot. 

From there it was into the township to the Council Chambers for our appointment with the Mayor (Cr John Davis) and Denis Gregory, our contact from the Gnoo Blas Classic Car Club. We were armed with our "pull-up" banner, and gave Mayor Davis a run-down of what we're about, what we're planning and where we are looking for assistance and support from the council. Just as when we met Ben from the Tourist Information Office, he was only too happy to help. (Along the way we learned that he is also the local Mazda dealer, and owns a collection of classic cars, including a recently acquired '48.)

Anyway, we discussed use of the various venues, hire of the Orange Function Centre, amongst other things. One of the staff then took us around to the function centre, so we could have a look around inside and get a feel for how we would make use of the venue. Trust me, it's perfect for the Nats.

After that, we discussed our plans with the management at the Bowling Club - one of the evening meal venues - and shouted Denis some lunch. Following that we spoke to a local caterer about the Sunday dinner. By then, it was starting to get well into the afternoon and time to think about heading eastwards once more, back to Sydney. John dropped us off about 5pm, and I think we all slept well that night.

A few plans firmed up, an opportunity to meet some helpful people in Orange, and accommodation all sorted. I call that a solid day's Nats planning.