It has occurred to me recently, the absolute travesty that I haven’t shared a post about the 2021 Ballarat Tweed Ride. For an event I’ve dedicated 10 years (this year) to, that’s a damn shame. It’s a spectacular event and I’m finally doing a lot more with it. I’ve worn the same outfit to the event for the last few years and in 2022 had a custom-made suit to try something new. Here’s a mix of photos from 2021 with a video of 2020, when the event was ‘online’ due to the start of the pandemic.
The fur that I have worn over my favourite jumpsuit was my grandmothers. She brought it over from England when she moved here in 1948. She would have loved this event and, particularly when I’m riding the bike with a passenger space on the back, I’m sure she would have joined in. Having her fur on make me feel like she’s with me and I’ve got her involved even though she’s not here anymore. Although one year I did have a bunch of people comment about me being a murderer and a “fur hag.” Good for them.
These are the legends who organise the Beard and Stache competition every year.
I’m riding my father’s bike in this photo because the cart I was riding broke down.
This photo is from (I think) 2018 or so.
This is the cart with passenger space. At least it went the full way in 2022.
I’ve put this picture in because this particular year someone leaned in my to sister and said “I don’t think she’d wear that if she knew how her bottom looked in it.” My sister replied “I think she wear’s it because she does know how her bottom looks in it.” It was great to have my sister fight against body shaming like that without missing a beat but I definitely felt, for a few minutes, that my curves and cellulite should be hidden. Whatever. You gotta love yourself because not everyone is going to.
Most of these photos were taken by Sophie Skoblar. This photo is of Daisy Kate and I’ve put it in because she’s dressed in a favourite cape of mine. Apparenly the weave is Welsh (I learned that just before the 2022 ride).
My hair from the back. Usually something low and simple to be able to wear a helmet.
Another shot showing off my cape. I did wear this one year but the only photos of me were hilariously out of focus.
Looks like so much fun! And I absolutely love your hat!
Author
Thank you! This is actually a hat the belonged to my great grandmother (another one brought out from England). I’ve attached a little feather piece made by local Feathers by Faith. The helmet hat is also a very loved item from Bike Pretty. I’ve got three different hats that can be worn over the top of it.