ISSUE 745 FEBRUARY 2020 - Patron: Brian Tanti - Vintage Drivers Club
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ISSUE 745 FEBRUARY 2020
Patron: Brian Tanti
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 1
THE VINTAGE DRIVERS’ CLUB
Established 1958 ABN 30 004 426 528
‘Catering for those who own or appreciate Vintage Vehicles’
Clubrooms Address: Club Mailing Address: Web Site Address:
Unit 8 / 41-49 Norcal Rd PO Box 3414 www.vintagedriversclub.com.au
Nunawading Vic 3131 Nunawading Vic 3131 Email: vdc@exemail.com.au
Telephone:(03) 9874 7857
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
President: John Johnston Vice President: Iain Ross Secretary : John Byrden Treasurer: Maureen Ross
Mobile 0417 354 998 Mobile 0423 780 537 Mobile 0412 263 155
Tel.: (03) 9725 0912 Mobile 0409 027 392 Email: secretary@vdc.org.au Tel.: (03) 9890 0467
Email: president@vdc.org.au Tel.: (03) 9890 0467 Email: treasurer@vdc.org.au
Email: vicepresident@vdc.org.au
editor@vdc.org.au
Committee: Stuart McCorkelle Committee: Roland Deery Committee: Arnold Chivers Committee: Glenda Chivers
Room Bookings Club Permits Membership & Website
Mobile 0488 087 043 Mobile 0431 709 248 Mobile 0431 709 248
Mobile 0423 939 053 Tel.: (03) 9899 1331 Tel.: (03) 9844 5432 Tel.: (03) 9844 5432
Email: commi�ee3@vdc.org.au Email: bookings@vdc.org.au Email: clubpermits@vdc.org.au Email: membership@vdc.org.au
website@vdc.org.au
Committee: Kirk Gardiner Committee: Doug Stevenson Committee: Trevor Barby
Safety Check Officers
The following Club Members are
eligible to conduct Vehicle
vehicles and sign Vehicle Safety
Reports:
Bill Eldridge 03 9798 8636
John Rhodes 03 9798 8636
Events Co Ordinator
John Davis 03 5422 3570
Mobile: 0417 523 691 Mobile 0419 319 977 Mobile: 0422 740 310
Tel: (03) 9726 5804 Tel.: (03) 9333 6419 Tel: (03) 9789 1118 Brian Smith 0401 802 264
Email: commi�ee1@vdc.org.au Email: events@vdc.org.au Email:
charged by the service provider
Property Services: Phil Hazelman Edith Stevenson, Garry Jewell, which will include an amount of
Mob: 0411 146 608 Gary & Kris Miles, Doreen Van Spanjen, Frank Braden, $25, which is to be returned to
Stuart McCorkelle & Nick Horn the Club.
Licensed Club Nominee : John Johnston
are to be sent to the Club Permits Officer, Arnold Chivers 10 Beaufort Rise, Warrandyte Vic 3113.
—1 SIGNED BY THE MEMBER 2.Cheque or money order made
payable to VicRoads 3.Stamped envelope addressed to VicRoads. OR Stamped self addressed envelope if you want the signed form
returned to yourself. The Club Permits Officer will: Confirm the applicant’s membership, financial status and vehicle eligibility and will
post all relevant documents in the envelope provided. NEW PERMIT APPLICATIONS are to be sent to the Club Permit Officer as above
and include 1. 2. VicRoads Eligibility Form 3. Photos as per VicRoads requirements 4. For vehicles pre 1948,
cate.
s the
2 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020
CALENDAR 2019
February 19th Wednesday Events Committee Meeting
Inside this Issue
21 - 23 Frid/Sun Begonia Rally Ballarat / Invitation From the President..............4
23rd Sunday Combined Run with Chrysler Restorers
Coming Events.............. 6 - 8
28th Friday Members Meeting
Past Events..................9 - 11
March 8th Sunday VDC YARRA GLEN SWAP
Members Car............. 12 - 13
14th Saturday Coffee & Chat + Lunch
18th Wednesday Events Committee Meeting Graham Paige 835............14
22nd Sunday KALORAMA RALLY Modern Wooden
27th Friday Members Meeting Frame Builder............ 15 - 16
April 10th Friday Hot Cross Bun Run North Central Country
11th Saturday Coffee & Chat Correspondent...................17
19th Sunday Kinglake Heritage Vehicle Day.
Mystery Vehicle......... 18 - 19
24th Friday Members Meeting
Little Bits & Pieces..... 20 - 21
25th Saturday Night Trial
From the Archives..... 22 - 23
May 6th Wednesday Mid Week Run
9th Saturday Coffee & Chat For Sale & Wanted.... 25 - 27
22nd Friday Members Meeting
29-31 Fri/Sun Historic Winton
Front Cover:
Members Meeting
18th February
Guest Speaker: Club member Richard Badham will be showing us some
of the rare and exotic cars and projects he has been fortunate to have
involvement with. Richard worked his school and uni holidays in a top
end restoration workshop in the UK before gaining employment at Rolls
Royce in the aircraft department. This is sure to be a very interesting and
entertaining talk. Tracey Hind’s 1925 Chevrolet Tourer
Display Vehicle: Richard will have his 1960 Royal Enfield Meteor Sports with her driving it on the first day of
motorcycle on display which was recently displayed at Motorclassica. This ownership. Read more inside this
is a true reflection of Richard's impeccable restoration work. issue.
27th March
Guest Speaker: Ross Baron will give an interesting talk on the Membership Enquiries
"car buddy system".
New Membership Applications & all
A fantastic concept that he has developed to help out enthusiasts as they
membership enquiries to Glenda
get older and find it difficult to maintain their collector vehicles.
Display Vehicle: Our guest speaker, Ross Baron will have his immaculate Chivers
1934 Ford on display. Mob: 0431 709 248
Email: membership@vdc.org.au
Please join us after the meeting for supper and a natter
All members & friends are welcome to attend CLUB
MEETINGS
Magazine Closing Date
Closing date for contributions for the March magazine is: Held on the 4th Friday
Sunday 1st March of the month at 8pm
(unless otherwise listed on
Club Calendar)
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the
Vintage Drivers Club or its officers. Whilst all care has been taken, neither the club
Gearbox will open on meeting nights.
nor its officers accept responsibility for the accuracy of information printed and or the
Guest speakers or other entertainment
quality of any items or services advertised or mentioned in this publication. The editor
reserves the right to edit contributions submitted for publication. and supper provided at each meeting.
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 3
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Well the new year is well under way with events offering Historic vehicle movement to display their vehicles. This
interest for everyone. Yet we would like to see more year the display was for Australian built vehicles and
members getting their cars out and given an airing. If you Holden and Ford were among many vehicles. Again it
consider that we can improve anything then provide some would have been great to have seen more attendees to
constructive criticism and do something to help. support RACV in recognition of their continuing support
for the Historic Vehicle movement. Of interest was
There are about a dozen people who make this Club work that most drivers/attendees were of mature age and
and when negative remarks are made it does nothing considering the historic movement is made up of many
to encourage those who do the work to continue. The mature age people more could have attended.
events committee tries very hard spending many hours
of their own time to organise events. So I ask everyone As I mentioned last month lets get those vehicles out and
to be a little understanding before making comments that about.
become hurtful and non-productive.
Safe and happy motoring
Having attended RACV Australia Day celebrations in John Johnston
the Kings Domain again this year I have to congratulate President
RACV on providing a marvellous opportunity for the
From the Editors Desk
Welcome to the February edition of The Vintage Driver. it many years ago. A great story I hope it encourages other
members to tell us about theirs, and their vehicles exploits.
This month we take a look back at the history of the club’s
involvement with swap meets and clearly, they have played Finally, we have an article about how to manage that
a big part in this club’s past and present. collection of parts you have collected over the years for
your chosen make. Will your family treasure them as you
Speaking of things important to the club it is really did, or will they end up at the tip?
gratifying to be able to feature one of our lady members
who regularly drives her vintage car to events and tells her Something we all need to think about!
story in this issue. I hope during the year we will be able
to feature our other lady members who enthusiastically Please, comments about the content, and articles for
partake of vintage motoring. inclusion will be gratefully received.
As well we outline the return of a members fully restored Iain R
vehicle to some of those people who owned and operated
Vale - Warren Smith
Warren passed away on Tuesday 14th January after a he visited the Hershey
twelve month battle with Motor Neuron Disease, he was Swap Meet a couple of
only 66 years old. years ago.
He joined our club in 1980 and some may remember We extend our
travelling to view his Model A Collection at his Wandin condolences to Brenda
Christmas Tree Farm. and family.
He loved driving his Model A and attended many rallies
in his native New Zealand and filled a lifetime wish when
New Members
The following have recently joined our Club. Please make them very welcome
Robert McGlashan (re-joining) 1929 Graham Paige 612 Sedan
Daniel & Louise Clarke 1924 Vauxhall 23/60 Sedan
We hope you enjoy being members of our Club.
4 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020
MINUTES OF VINTAGE DRIVERS CLUB MEETING
24th January 2020 • thanked Maureen for organising the desserts for the evening and
Meeting opened: about 8.15pm, Lyn for working during the afternoon in organising the salads and
80 members present. of course all the cooks and others helping to ensure the evening
Visitors: Stuart with a 50 Chev was such a success.
Apologies: Rod Adler • Congratulated John McCorkelle on a new daughter
Receive Minutes of last Club meeting: No discussion ensued. • Advised that Glen and Paula Seymour lost all in the French
Minutes accepted, moved Iain Ross, seconded Kirk Gardiner and Island fire
Carried. • Advised of the passing of Warren Smith who had joined the VDC
Foyer Display Vehicle: Tom Brown provided an interesting run in 1980
through of the restoration of his 1925 Dodge Ute from when he
started at age 17 to the present. General Business:
John advised that the process with ASIC for incorporation is still
Treasurers Report: Financial figures presented with a detailed ongoing.
discussion on the yearly expenditures and income. All details of Regarding a query about Australia Day, John J advised owners
the financial report available from the treasurer on request. had to register by End Nov for Australian made cars. While a limit
was to be 100 vehicles as per last year, it is understood only 55
Events Report. registered. With the RACV sponsoring the event, it is poor that the
Past Events. movement has not supported the event. Lyle Drysdale provided
• Sunday 15 Dec. Invitation to Vintage Sports Car Club - Two a brief history of the early days of this event. With the concern
Wheel Brake Rally. Invitation event. A number of VDC members for Occupational Health and Safety, the event was limited to 50
attended with Two Wheel brake cars. vehicles three years ago and then 100 for this and last year.
• Wednesday 8 Jan 2020. Midweek Run McClelland Sculpture No New Business
Park Combined event with Southern Peninsular Classic &
Historic Car Club. About 65 people from both clubs in attendance. No Notices of Motion
Including 10 grandchildren. What is it: Ken Johns advised that the item was a sun visor
• Coffee & Chat. Sat. 11th Jan bracket.
• Evening Run & Picnic Sat 18th Jan. Westerfolds Park.
Mystery Vehicle: The vehicle was a French Charon(ette), the
Coming Events. photo being supplied by Graham Simpson
• Coffee & Chat. Sat. 8th Feb. Newsletter: Iain advised he was after articles for the newsletter
• Sunday 9th Feb. Rock Hanging Rock. VDC Display.
• Friday 21 to Sun 23 February. Invitation event. Ballarat Car Club Other:
Begonia Rally. Garry Jewell advised a 1929 Graham Page sedan has recently
•Sunday 23rd Feb. Combined run with Chrysler Restorers Club. been sold and has gone to England
Cranbourne. Gary Miles spoke of a heavily damaged 29 Chev of Tom Boyd is
• Sunday 8th March. Yarra Glen Swap Meet for sale as a parts car for $4 to 4.5K, located in Albury, contact
• Sunday 22nd March. Kalorama Rally David Boyd
• 29th – 31st May Historic Winton Tom Brown states he has a 27 Dodge, steel body, for sale at $6K
• Queen’s Birthday Bash to Echuca. June 2020
• Bay to Birdwood September 2020. 40th anniversary of B to B. Raffle: Winners, Ross Ansell, Annette Newell, Stuart McCorkelle,
We are looking at having club run and display of VDC cars. Entries Phil Barkley, George Cox, Ken Johns, Ann Drysdale and Cooper
to open early Feb Evans.
Presidents Report: Meeting Closed. 9:05pm
• presented the Clubman of the year award to John Rhodes.
Recent Arrival
Congratulations to John and Stephanie McCorkelle for the
safe arrival of their new daughter, Penelope born on the
13th of January. All is going well, and Clara is very excited
to be a big sister!
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 5
COMING EVENTS
Coffee & Chat
Combined Run with Chrysler March 14th 10.00-11.30
Followed by Lunch Featuring Dodge Group
Restorers Club. An invitation is extended to all members and non-mem-
Sunday 23rd February. bers to join the hardy Dodge Brothers Drivers for an inter-
We will be heading out to Cranbourne Royal Botanical esting run to Yarra Glen Grand Hotel in order to partake of
Gardens with you guys for our 2020 run. We’ll be cruising a beverage (or two), lunch and further chatting following
from VDC clubrooms at 9.30am, once there we’ll have the Coffee and Chat morning at the VDC clubrooms.
dedicated parking for all our vehicles. We will supply a All those interested in establishing a Special Interest
light morning tea. Members to supply their own lunch Group catering to Dodge Brothers enthusiasts are encour-
(BBQ facilities available pending warning on fire danger aged to attend to gain insights into restoring and maintain-
day) ing their vehicles.
Leigh Anderson / Chrysler Restorers Club
Garry Jewell / VDC 93383637 0417157343 LUNCH VENUE: YARRA GLEN GRAND HOTEL
TIME: 1:00 PM.
Numbers and enquiries to Stuart McCorkelle - stuart_mc-
corkelle@hotmail.com
6 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020
COMING EVENTS
Hot Cross Bun Run
Good Friday, 10th April.
This year’s event is being
organised by the Austin 7 Club.
Always a great relaxing day and
a chance to catch up with fellow
members & friends from the
other clubs.
Further details will be in March magazine
This event is now fully booked. If you still wish to attend
contact Stuart ASAP to go onto a waiting list
VDC Night trial
How long has it been since you last did a VDC night trial?
Rediscover your sense of adventure and meet us at
Corben Oval, Yarra Bend Rd, Fairfield (Melway map 44,
H4) 5:30pm for a 6pm sharp departure. Provided you
take all the right turns, like Cinderella, I aim to have you
all home before you carriage turns into a pumpkin.
Take in some of Melbourne’s most spectacular city views
as we showcase the best of what the city has to offer. A We have again been invited to have a display of our cars
bayside stop for Fish ‘n’ Chips should give you and your at Historic Winton. Prearranged Display Car, driver & one
navigator enough energy to get you through the night. passenger will be issued with free entry passes.
Be sure to pack a Melway, torch and clipboard. An eagle- The Wangaratta Motor Inn (03) 57215488 is currently
eyed navigator with a sense of humour would of course holding a number of rooms for us but you must make your
be advantageous. own booking quickly and mention Vintage Drivers Club.
This is also an opportunity for country members in the
area to attend and display their cars.
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 7
COMING EVENTS
To acknowledge this milestone, the 2020 Bay to Bird-
wood will be a celebration of all decades of motoring
history. Vehicle classes for entry are:
Pre 1950 (up to 31st December 1949) and
1950 up to 31st December 1989.
As it is a combined event for all vehicles normally in the
two different events, numbers will be limited to 1750
vehicles in total.
Sunday 27th September 2020
We are planning to have a club run to Adelaide for this
event. We intend to arrange runs that suit both slower
and faster cars, details will be available later.
Entries are now open. If you want to attend, you should
enter early, to avoid missing out.
Enter at Bay to Birdwood website:
baytobirdwood.com.au/enter-your-vehicle
Looking after each other
The Club is not just a group of people who collect cars. It reaches into the homes and families of members as
well. It is a community. When people are unwell or struggling, the club can be a source of support and friendship.
However, if the committee is unaware that there are problems, we cannot enable that support,
If you are aware of someone who is seriously ill or incapacitated, please let us know so that we can find out
whether they need assistance.
If you know of a member or their partner, who has passed away it would be appreciated if this information could be
forwarded to the editor for acknowledgement in the newsletter.
We want to hear from you!
We are always looking to feature articles from our members in Vintage Driver. We'd love to share your personal
accounts of trips and shows you have attended, restoration projects, unique vehicle stories and history, and any
other stories you think other club members would enjoy hearing about.
Stories should average about 500 words or less. And, we love photos, so make sure to include some! Please send
your photos and stories to Iain Ross at editor@ vdc.org.au
8 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020
PAST EVENTS
Mcclelland Sculpture Park
This was a special Mid-Week Run as we were joined by
Members of the Southern Peninsula Classic and Historic
Car Club. We were fortunate the weather was not too
warm for our visit to McClelland Park which has a vibrant
artist community, beautiful lake and gardens, café,
meeting rooms and gallery.
After gathering in the car park, we gradually made our
way to the Pavilion Room where we enjoyed exceptional
home-made scones with jam and cream accompanied
by coffee and a selection of teas. Following morning
tea, we explored the Park which contains 87 fascinating
sculptures. Members then relaxed with a picnic lunch Southern Peninsula Classic and Historic Car Club
near the lake. Geoff Bartlett & Helen Couch, Warrick & Petra Spinaze,
We all had a very pleasant day and hope the Clubs can Don & Bev Robinson, Wally & Brenda Allen, Murray
share another Mid-Week Run in the not too distant future. Grierson & Ian, Graeme & Ruth Bonniface, Barry & Bev
Tidd, Roger Howes, Ken & Sue Burrows, Greg & Jennifer
Attendees Cripps, Brian & Leonie Evans, Stuart & Ann West, John
Vintage Drivers’ Club Becker, John & Rhonda Vogt, John Marten, Ernie & Sue
Frank & Janet Braden, John & Doreen Van Spanjen, DeVlieger, Geoff & Lyn Meaney, Rob & Janet Lloyd, Paul
Brian Skewers & Emily Ong, Trevor & Eileen Barby, & Christine Lucas, Gerd & Hanne Matthesius.
John & Lyn Johnston, Gordon & Catherine Berg, Ted
Geermans, Doug & Edith Stevenson, Colin & Valerie Many of the Members’ Grandchildren were also in
Wilson, Lyle & Ann Drysdale, Allison Popple, Malcolm & attendance.
Janet Savage.
Evening Run - Westerfolds Park
Saturday was forecast to be a hot sunny day and it sure cars with visitors kept rolling in as the evening progressed
was with a high level of humidity. Our pink 1930 Chevy giving us a final attendance of 23 people with 4 vintage
had warmed up after climbing some hills but was still cars, several classics and many collector cars overall.
travelling well. We arrived early at Westerfolds Park and Everyone had a great time with pleasant chatter and
found a vacant and cool looking shelter available with many laughs until it was time to head for home again.
plenty of car parking spaces nearby in the ‘Red Stringy
Bark’ car park. The next step was to claim the shelter for
the Club and put up the banner and place tablecloths over
the tables to make things ready for our first arrivals.
Attendees:
George Rae & Carol Bloodworth , George & Joy Simmons
and friends Pat & Stuart, Anne & Lyle Drysdale, Ron &
Pat Sinclair, Robert Schembri, Rob & Beth Kirby, John
& Lyn Johnston, Malcolm & Janet Savage, Kevin Oates,
Vicki & Graham Bell, Phillip Barclay & Friend, Gary & Kris
Next to arrive, in their 1974 Peugeot 504, were George Miles.
Rae & Carole who live not far away from the park. Further
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 9
PAST EVENTS
January Members Meeting and Barbecue Dinner
They arrived in style
The Chefs Extraordinaire from
left Bill Eldridge, Garry Jewell &
John Rhodes
Dinner was enjoyed by all in
attendance.
John Johnston presents John
Rhodes with his Clubman of the
year award.
10 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020PAST EVENTS
January Members Meeting Display Car
Our member Tom Brown gave us an insight
how at a very young age he became interested
in vintage cars, particularly Dodges. His
grandfather and father were great mentors for
him providing the bones of a 1925 Dodge utility.
Over time with their support he has restored this
vehicle to the stage it is currently at. Great story
and just shows how important the connection
between enthusiast parents and their children
is, if we are going to carry on the passion for our
movement.
Tom’s car caused much
discussion with members
prior to dinner
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 11MEMBERS CAR
Members Car – Tracey Hind’s 1925 Chevrolet Tourer
I've always been fascinated by historical transport. In my little piece of Australian history was mine!!!! Doug had
childhood (in the early 70's) my father would take me on bought Molly (as I christened my new 1925 Chev Tourer)
trips to his childhood home in Port Melbourne on the train. for me sight unseen over the internet. She had been
This line was the last suburban line in Melbourne that still living in a shed at Cootamundra and arrived with a daggy
used the old 'red rattlers'. Even in their various states 1980's brown hand paint job, a 1950's vinyl upholstery
of disrepair the red trains were beautiful in their level of job, retro-fitted motorbike indicators and a Yarrawonga
ornate decoration. Historic Car Club badge on the front. Other than that, she
was completely original and ran the very first day we tried
to start her!!! When Bill Eldridge opened up the engine
block a year or so later to tune her up, he told me that it
was the first time the pistons had ever been replaced, that
they were the same ones put in there 90 years earlier. I
think she's extraordinary.
She had one broken axle which we had fixed and then
the engine given an overhaul. Other improvements have
been:
• a new canopy and windows - the old roof was still
there, but the struts were damaged and not holding it up
properly
• a new radiator
• a new fuel tank (the old one was still there but full of
gunk)
• stripping back of the painted wheel spokes and sand
The early 70's were an exciting time for trains in and polish to reveal the beautiful original timbers
Melbourne because the 'blue trains' (which had replaced underneath
the 'red trains' two decades earlier) were being retired • a beautiful new cherry red dress (new exterior paint job)
in favour of the exciting new space age 'silver trains'.
My Mum took me on a ride on one of the new silver I love driving her around. I had to learn how to and I
trains from Bonbeach station. I was so excited and still largely have Bill Eldridge to thank for that who showed me
remember it today. The silver trains were sleek, but the basics when he tuned the engine. He also tuned it so
nowhere near as pretty as the red trains. that I don't have to worry about the hand controls (thank
you Bill). I wonder what her past has been. I can see that
I moved to the country as a teenager and there weren't she's mainly been an inland vehicle because she has no
any trains to admire. However, in the early 1980's there rust at all. I like the fact that she's an everyday person's
was a strong historical society movement in the bush, car, not a fancy car. So, her day to day life would have
and I became enamoured with both horse drawn and reflected the day to day priorities of the ordinary family -
horseless local transport options and how they served travelling to work, to school, the shops, around the farm
rural communities. I was (and remain) particularly etc. My great grandfather opened a GM dealership in
fascinated with the early motoring period as it provided the early 1920's in Tallangatta. It's where the fires are
the most tangible physical link between the way we are burning now and it's not far from Yarrawonga where
today and the way we were. It's really hard to associate Molly's historic car club badge is from. He used to drive
with having to catch and harness horses before driving the cars up from Melbourne over the Great Alpine Road to
anywhere, but it's easy to see yourself in the shoes of an Tallangatta to sell them. A trip of some days. I sometimes
early motor driver. I'd go and look at the car collections at wonder if Molly was one of his cars back then. Wouldn't
Bright and Beechworth where they regularly came out for that be something!
show. I thought they were so beautiful. All I ever wanted
was a ride in one, I didn't ever dream I'd one day have
one! I don't want to hurt or damage her. To that end I don't like
driving on freeways or over very long distances. After
My husband is great at making all my dreams come all she is very old. Regular exercise is good for you - but
true. He knew how much I loved vintage cars because running a marathon or at high speeds when you're 95?
everywhere in the world that we travelled I would drag Not so much. Also, I'm no mechanic. I know to check
him around historical motoring museums and sigh and the oil, water and tyre pressure before going anywhere.
exclaim over the beauty of the vehicles. But I don't want to be in the situation where the car
breaks down and I'm stranded. It's happened a couple of
One day a truck appeared out the front of our house with times already and the RACV are terrific. But I feel a bit
a slightly daggy looking vintage car on the back. I was vulnerable putting myself and Molly in situations where we
beside myself with excitement when I found out that this are far from home and a breakdown might occur. For that
12 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020MEMBERS CAR
Members Car – Tracey Hind’s 1925 Chevrolet Tourer
reason, I like to keep my outings with her relatively local.
I often do my weekend runarounds like the shopping and
gardening in her. She also has an annual role as Santa's
preferred mode of transport when he's resting reindeer
and doing repairs to the sleigh at our neighborhood Xmas
Party.
I live in Melbourne's inner west. So, the VDC events that
I've participated in with her are local to that area. I've
been to:
• RACV Aussie Car Show at Flemington Showgrounds
• Some event at Calder Raceway (I can't remember its
name)
• A display event at Werribee Rose Gardens
• Twice to the Australia Day display at Government House
in Domain Gardens be able to contribute more significantly to the hard work
• On the Head to Head rally from the Williamstown that managing a club entails and through that contribute
starting point; and to keeping the beauty of vintage motoring alive. I work full
• On the 2 wheel brake rally this year to see the Tait Train time in a pretty demanding job. But that won't always be
(organised by a different club to the VDC) the case. In the meantime, I want to say thanks to those
who do the work (John Johnson and all the committee
When she is on show Molly is unashamedly a woman's and volunteers) and to let you know that your work does
car. She has a small collection of paraphernalia that I not go unrecognised.
keep with her that include an original 1930's parasol, an
art-deco perfume bottle and some 1920's paper dolls. As a non-mechanic car owner, my main concern for
Molly's future with me is what happens when the expert
I admire and respect all the volunteers at the VDC who do mechanics like Bill and John retire? Who will I turn to in
the hard work. I know that it's a pretty small sub-section order to keep Molly running?
of the membership who do all the work and sometimes I
feel guilty about that. I fully expect that in the future I will Tracey
Paying it Forward
An edited version of an article written by Richard If you are of the age where you are no longer interested,
Lentinello in Hemmings Classic Car magazine. or even able, to rebuild or restore another old car or truck,
yet you have many desirable parts for a particular model
There comes a point in all our lives when we need to stashed away in your garage, then you should make
decide what to do with all the stuff we’ve accumulated. All every effort to find those parts a much-needed welcoming
those car, truck, and motorcycle parts that you’ve saved home where they will be put to good use.
and collected through the decades will surely be thrown
away if you don’t do something with them while you still So, here’s the twist: If you are financially secure and don’t
have the ability to make that decision. need the money, perhaps you could give those parts
away to a fellow car person who’s in desperate need of
Do you really want all your car parts to end up in a skip? them, but for whatever reason can’t afford to buy them?
If they did, that would be a total waste, not only of all the This will ensure that your old car parts are being properly
time and effort you spent searching for those parts and recycled into another car, which will then help get another
preserving them, but for all your fellow car collectors old car back on the road again for everybody to enjoy.
who may have needed those parts to complete their This act of kindness will also greatly assist in keeping our
restorations. In the end, no one wins. automotive legacy alive.
The reality is, not everyone in your family shares the Another alternative would be to give the parts away in
same passion as you regarding your car parts. Most exchange for that person to make a donation to your
think they are nothing but junk taking up space and won’t favourite charity or organisation. The donation doesn’t
hesitate to throw them away as soon as you head to that have to be equal to the value of the parts, as long as
big salvage yard in the sky. To most of your family and the charity or organisation can benefit from that financial
friends, these parts are useless. But we know otherwise. contribution.
We know just how important – and desirable – some of
those parts really are.
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 131928 Graham Paige 835 Speedster by Roger Howes
The morning after the Xmas BBQ five Club Members
were waiting at the front of Joyce Turners home for the
arrival of Robert and Laural Bonner’s fully restored 1928
Graham Paige 835 Speedster. The car was rebuilt by
Robert who purchased a pile of junk from C.R.Turner
Motors of Mornington in 1966 and turned it into an
eye catching master piece. He was bringing the car to
Mornington to show previous owners who at one time
operated the car in various forms.
In the late 1940’s Claude Turner, Lawrie Turner’s father,
purchased a damaged Graham Paige 7 seat Limousine, Tow truck made from damaged limo by Claude Turner
it was repaired and converted to a tow truck for use in his
motor repair business. The Victorian Government in the
early fifties decided all tow trucks were to have duel drive
wheels which put an end to the Graham Paige.
Bert Grierson of Mornington, the father of Ian and Murray
Grierson and mate of Claude Turner purchased the
Graham Paige to tow a caravan he was building; the
cabin was modified to include a rear seat for Ian and
Murray. The vehicle was not suitable for towing due
mainly to the poor turning circle and a new tow vehicle
was purchased from Claude Turner who had the Rootes
Group Agency. It was a Commer Karrier Bantam and Tray truck used by Bert Grierson with modified cabin to
was also modified to include a rear seat that consisted include back seat
of a plank with cushions. The Graham Paige was again
modified to be used in Griersons building business and
when no longer of use was put out to pasture.
Over many years Lawrie Turner was known to “borrow”
parts of the Graham Paige for various projects and at
some time the vehicle was moved from the Griersons
home back to Turners garage where years earlier it had
been used as a tow truck. It was relegated to a corner of
the yard and the tin worms put to work.
Car enthusiasts of the 1960’s were the same as today,
they get all excited when they see a rusted wreck
amongst the weeds and blackberries and in 1965 Robert
Bonner a Graham Paige enthusiasts was told of a eight
cylinder model at Mornington, a deal was done and in
1966 the car, or what was left of it, was sold to him by
Lawrie for five pounds and then dragged from what was
thought to be its final resting place from the corner of
the yard of C.R.Turner Motors and flat towed to Ferntree The wreck taken by Robert Bonner from Turner’s yard
Gully.
Over many years Robert Bonner located all the
necessary parts from local and overseas suppliers,
however, he was not able to locate the rear section of the
body as most of it was discarded years earlier during the
tow truck conversion, so in keeping with the 1920’s he
designed and built a speedster boattail body.
The families of previous owners, Turners and Griersons,
were thankful to Robert and Laural for bringing the car to
Mornington for all to see and admire, photos and stories
were swapped of bygone days and all admired the effort
and time that must have gone into the rebuild of the
Graham Paige 835 Speedster. The Commer and homemade caravan Grierson family
use in mid 1950’s to tour outback Australia
14 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 20201928 Graham Paige 835 Speedster by Roger Howes
Robert took Joyce for a drive
around the block – “Very like the
Stutz, Lawrie and I had except
the Stutz had side curtains” she
said on her return. The Grierson
brothers have not stopped
smiling. It was a somewhat
overwhelming morning for those
that once owned the Graham
Paige
Sourced from Crankhandle
magazine of the Southern
Peninsula Classic and Historic
Car Club.
Previous and present owners of car; Joyce Turner, Ian Grierson, Robert and Laural
Bonner, Murray Grierson.
A Modern Wooden Frame Builder
Wooden body frames are something most vehicles of the I do not have to be here at 7.00 am but that’s when I
vintage period share. arrive, I like to have a cup of coffee and a chat with the
lads before I start. I have got my own corner of the wood
Here is the story of a gentleman who still uses his skills shop and I only work on the standard or as we call it the
to produce new timber framed vehicles at the Morgan traditional model. Over the years I have done most of the
Factory in England. jobs, so they just leave me to get on with it.
Vince Wankling has been employed at Morgan Cars since At the moment I am finishing off the last door frame of a
1975. car making sure it fits the aperture.
Here is his story I have already built the door frame in a little jig, which
holds it tightly as its glued together. Once it is in place, I
will trim it so that it is absolutely perfect. Using modern
glue means the time to make the door has fallen from a
whole day when I started working here to five hours.
That’s modern efficiency! Still some things never change
the solid oak press we use to shape the wheel arch is at
least 80 years old.
I started at Morgan in September 1975, I had done ten
years in the building trade, so I had developed carpentry
skills. The reason I came to Morgan was that it was close
to home I could walk to work! Before I started here, I
did not know that Morgan had a wood working shop, or
its own sawmill which it still has! It must be the only car
manufacturer in the world to do so. Our ash comes from
Lincolnshire now days it arrives on pallets cut to the
lengths; we need so we no longer have waste left over
timber from long planks.
When I joined there were still four young ladies working
on old capstan lathes, and one of them became my
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 15A Modern Wooden Frame Builder
partner. A lot of relationships have started here over the time I rarely get a splinter. You just know by instinct not to
years. Morgan has been my life really! brush a rough edge. It’s an old joke here that you pretend
to be in agony getting a splinter from someone else’s
I actually retired three years ago aged 65 on my birthday. work!
They put a cardboard cut out of me on the wall, when I left
because I was such a fixture. But I soon came back and Morgan has not changed that much over the years, thank
now I work three mornings a week. The “ghost” of Vince is goodness.
still up there.
Peter Morgan was well liked by his staff. Since the change
The placing and lifting work does become a bit harder the management is now younger and there is a bit more
when you get older. I groan every time I stand up, but I pressure on everyone. Everyone looked at the car when it
don’t mind because I just like doing it. I have built or part was parked , but they did not realise there was a bit of the
built 6000 frames in my time, and these days I am often driver inside the car itself.
working with an apprentice by my side.
These days I drive to work I never learnt to drive until I
I love showing the kids how it is done, passing on my was 43. I had never driven a Morgan until last summer
skills, although you have to work swiftly to get the jobs when the boss allowed me to use a traditional model to
done and do the training. The bodies are going out at a take my great nephew to his summer prom!
fair rate. These days the apprentices come straight in.
They are usually keen, but if I am honest a bit naïve. You The Morgan factory in Malvern UK should be on your
are going to make cars, bucket list to do a tour of.
But most importantly you got to start by becoming skilled It is very much geared to a steady stream of tourists
at cutting and planning a piece of wood. unlike some of the other manufacturing facilities that we
Patience and accuracy are crucial, being proud of your had the pleasure of visiting.
tools and sharpening them, is also important
The traditional Morgan is coming to the end of its
Because its all hardwood we work with. I have a young production life I think the engine being used failed to meet
lad working beside me at the moment who has sent off for the European pollution standards! I note the more modern
a rosewood handled chisel to add to his tools. That’s the iterations have an aluminium subframe rather than the
right spirit, you have to love your tools. traditional chassis, but timber is still used at least for
effect.
Actually, the type of some tools is what has changed the
most during my time. I used to have terrible tennis elbow The traditional three wheeler is now back in production,
through using old fashioned planes and screw drivers. with a timber frame, and Bert Howard sent me a photo of
Now they are all battery powered by Makita. It is much one visiting the Mornington Peninsula recently.
easier physically and my hands are quite soft. After all this Morgan until recently was the last of the British owned
car manufacturers,
having been bought
by European interests
recently.
The interview with
Vince Wankling was
sourced from Octane
magazine of June 2019
and authored by Giles
Chapman.
16 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020North Central Country Correspondent David Vaughan
The Christmas break and New Year called ‘Red Triangle’ in the UK have a
are quiet around our way. Castlemaine has vast quantity of parts to maintain Alvis’s
a gathering on New Years Day which I that have survived. When an offer by
invariably forget until after the event. I Email to forward a catalogue about the
have included a few miscellaneous jottings company and parts lists for free I took
in lieu of the absence of rally reports. the opportunity to send away for it. Red
Triangle is an excellent quality service and
Old VDC Member parts provider. Within a week when I
ordered some gaskets I received them in
There are probably very few mem-
the mail. Whenever we have been to the
bers active in the 1960s and 1970s that
UK we have always been so impressed
would know the name Peter Norman who
with the excellent publications available at
was a VDC member in Wedderburn. Along
with several other enthusiasts in the area he
historic homes and castles. Keeping within Essex
this splendid UK quality the Red Triangle
was involved early in the formation of the
catalogue has been beautifully produced
local North Central Vintage Car Club.
and at a cost of £14.50p postage, they
Peter restored a Dodge 6 acquired from a
obviously hope that Alvis owners will be
local farm and later a Chevrolet sedan. He
purchasing a heap of parts.
currently has a 1950 and 1960’s Humber
In recent years Alvis has begun a
Snipes.
continuation series of the pre-war 4.3 litre
When we first met Peter he was on
Alvis built to exacting standards of the
fourteen community committees, however
originals. If you won Tatts or you are a
due to health issues he has drastically
millionaire you can buy a brand new Alvis
reduced his community activities. In recog-
in the following beautiful body styles :
nition of his services to the community he
Lancefield, Vanden Plas and Bertelli The late Lance Elliot left his family a
was awarded the Lodden Shire’s Citizen of
shed of vintage Essex’s a few years ago.
the Year. He has always been on the car
Joan Elliot, seated in this car, was driven to
club committee. The club added to his
the annual dinner in one Essex that has
surprise presentation by attending in our
been acquired by Arnold Bond, a collector
classic cars, which he really appreciated.
in St Arnaud. Arnold has just finished
Older members may recognise the Buick as
restoring a huge Mac truck and is very
it was Dick Beechy’s before Alan Esmore
saloon. At the back of the book is a list of excited having the vintage car.
acquired it.
all models produced and their production
Country Motor
By now most people
know that I have been produc-
ing ‘Country Motor Australia’
It is only available electroni-
cally as I can’t afford to have it
printed off. All copies are on
the VDC and AOMC web
sites. The February edition
has just been finished with
stories from readers on a
Morris Cowley, Austin
Atlantics and long time VDC
member Graeme Simpson has
written about the interesting
cars of his life.
The following issue’s
stories will include one on a
Various Club cars Model T Ford sedan restora-
tion and a Rolls Royce Silver
Ghost..
Like Iain Ross I encour-
Red Triangle numbers. Also surviving cars are listed age readers to write about their pre-1960
showing 22.7% of all 21,250 Alvis’s vehicles and experiences. As it is sent
My Alvis may be an obscure make
produced have survived. The final TF21 throughout Australia there is no end of
that is not as common as Holden's of its
made in 1966 - 96% survive. variety of interesting stories.
period but surprisingly enough a company
David
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 17Last Month’s Mystery Vehicle
The vehicle was a Charron or more likely a Charronette!
Pictured in North Melbourne, probably in the late fifties it was provided by one of our long term members Graham Simpson.
Graham in earlier times was an enthusiastic car spotter who often had his camera on the ready.
Manufactured by Automobiles Charron in France, the company commenced production in
the veteran period, a partnership of Charron, Girardot and Voigt showed their first car in
1901. their vehicles known as CGV’s. This partnership dissolved around 1906. From around
1907 the company’s production became known as Charron’s, mostly larger capacity vehicles
described by Georgano as “uninteresting vehicles.”
Fernand Charron born in 1866 was a racing cyclist, who later took up motor racing with Panhard.
The vehicle pictured may have had a cubic capacity of approximately 1057 cc and rated at 6-8 horsepower. I think it may
have been bodied locally.
Charron were represented in Melbourne by Eclipse Motors of 478 Elizabeth Street Melbourne.
The Victorian engine number records indicate at least 40 Charrons were registered here in the period.
Which leads to the Charron Laycock.
In a quite amazing coincidence Ken Aitken produced this interesting article
Charron Laycock cars.
Why am I writing about these cars? Well at Bendigo Swap meeting this year I was sorting through a box of bits and pieces
that I had on my stall. I can’t remember where the box came from which makes this story more interesting. In it I found a
round step made from cast aluminium with the initials LC cast in the centre. No-one knew what it was off. Well I turned it over
and written in Texta on the back was Charron Laycock. We knew of Laycock overdrives but nothing else. So, research and
wow! An unknown car is discovered – the Charron Laycock!
This car was a joint business arrangement between Charron Ltd of Puteaux France
and Laycock of Sheffield England. These cars were sold between 1920 and 1926.
These were a high quality light car with an engine of 1135cc and competed with the
Rover 9 etc. They made between 600 and 900 vehicles. However, the company
wasn’t successful, and a Receiver was appointed in 1924 with the company closing
in 1926.
Charron of Puteaux near Paris, a manufacturer of motorcars, bought a controlling
interest in Laycock in 1917 and began the manufacture of aero-engines under
contract to the British government. It is believed they also made motorcycles and
side cars. Even though Charron was French it was setup with British money and
was called Charron Ltd. They continued making cars until approx. 1930 in France.
18 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020Last Month’s Mystery Vehicle They even made an armoured car in 1906 and sold some to Russia. This was quite a revolutionary vehicle as it had a fully revolving turret and bullet proof tyres. Laycock's initial business was the manufacture of railway carriage and steamship fittings and underframe gear for railway coaches and locomotives. The range was extended to include axles, gearboxes, and motor chassis components, motorcar propeller shafts and the Layrub rubber bushed propellor shaft. After 25 years of importing goods from USA following annual visits. W S Laycock introduced for the first time in UK a method of steam heating carriages in a Great Northern train in 1893 following a few years of experience with a similar system in USA. The carriage interiors of the 1908 Southern Belle "the most luxurious train in the world" later known as the Brighton Belle were built by W S Laycock's business in Sheffield. By 1964 Laycock's principal products were: Laycock de Normanville overdrives and spring diaphragm clutches for the motor industry and flexible couplings also for industrial use. Dual clutches for tractors, garage equipment, railway air and vacuum brakes, control valves for fluids and gases were also manufactured. The BMC CV joint has some relationship here as well. Note after much investigation along with members of the motorcycle fraternity it is believed the foot step found with CL emblazoned on it most likely originated on Chater Lea motorcycle. The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 19
This Month’s Mystery
Vehicle
This month’s mystery American mid-sized, high quality
and quite rare.
The first correct answer from electronic and hard
copy versions will receive a small reward
Contact: Iain Ross 03 9890 0467
Email: imgross@bigpond.com
Little Bits and Pieces
That famous old name from the vintage era Hispano Suiza is of trademark – that the Pierce-Arrow Society has held since
to be revived the late Fifties.
The new model known as the Carmen is a “hyper lux electric As detailed in the opposition, the Pierce-Arrow Society
grand tourer. It is being trialled on the roads of Barcelona claimed that Greene’s trademark falsely suggested a
where it is to be manufactured connection between Greene’s limousine and the Pierce-
Arrow Society and that it likely caused confusion between
Miguel Mateu president of Hispano Suiza stated we are the two trademarks. While the Pierce-Arrow Society does
proud of our long heritage dating back to 1904 The vehicle not hold the rights to the Pierce-Arrow name or claim to be a
will shortly be undergoing high speed testing on the Ascari legal successor to the Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company, the
circuit. Pierce-Arrow Society argued in its opposition that “it is the
de facto successor to The Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Company
Not so fortunate is the Pierce Arrow brand in America with respect to the preservation of the memory of the antique
A recent report in Hemmings outlines how an attempt to Pierce-Arrow automobiles… and the protection of the Pierce-
revive this famous name was foiled. Arrow mark.”
In the annals of automotive history lie the names of The USPTO’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, after
thousands of dead carmakers. While most of them remain hearing the case released its decision late last year, agreeing
long-forgotten, some still carry enough cachet for occasional in part with the Pierce Arrow Society. Because the Pierce-
attempts at reviving those brands. Or, at least, that was the Arrow Society did not have the actual rights to the Pierce-
case until a recent U.S. Patent and Trademark Office ruling Arrow name (“whatever rights the defunct entity had were
that effectively put the fates of defunct brands into the hands extinguished when it went bankrupt and ceased to exist,” the
of the car clubs dedicated to those brands. “We’re delighted; TTAB noted) and because the Pierce-Arrow Society failed to
it just makes good sense,” said Marc Hamburger, a former establish any sort of fame or reputation, the TTAB dismissed
president of the Pierce Arrow Society, who pursued a recent the Pierce-Arrow Society’s claim that Greene’s trademark
trademark case to defend the Pierce-Arrow mark from use suggested a false connection.
by modern-day car manufacturers. “You cannot make a
new Pierce-Arrow. They were built from 1901 to 1938 .The
dispute over the Pierce-Arrow trademark dates to January
2015, when the Pierce-Arrow Society’s outside attorney,
Alan Cooper, discovered that William Greene, the president
of filtration company SpinTek, had filed for a trade mark on
the Pierce Arrow name for use in automobile production. The
name was reportedly slated for the Millenium Golden Dragon
a customized stretch limousine based on a modern Bentley.
“It had nothing to do with Pierce-Arrow,” Hamburger said.
In response, the Pierce-Arrow Society, via Cooper, filed an
opposition to Greene’s trademark with the United Stated
Patent and Trademark Office, claiming that Greene’s
trademark violated the collective membership mark – a type
20 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020Little Bits and Pieces
However, the TTAB did agree with the Pierce-Arrow
Society’s likelihood of confusion claim, noting that
potential customers might mistakenly believe that the
Pierce-Arrow Society in some way endorsed or in
some way influenced the Pierce-Arrow automobiles
Greene had planned to build.
So, a big win for the Pierce Arrow Club and the
next famous make to be replicated is rumoured to
be Cord. They will have to ensure that their case is
stronger than for Pierce Arrow if they are to succeed.
Now in England it has been announced that Lucas
is to put some of its famous components back into
production. To be marketed in the authentic red and
black boxes, the scheme wants to ensure these
new old productions are of the highest quality. In
the recent past a number of suppliers have been
licensed to sell Lucas branded parts and quality has
not always been good. Much of the production will
be based in the UK and they will be striving only to
market high quality replacement parts
I spotted this very nice 1923 Jewitt in a recent Unique
Cars magazine. Looked in great condition and nicely
priced. Rare in their home country, we seem to have
received them in some numbers, no doubt if no
buyers come forward it will be snapped up in Europe
or UK.
Finally, my lost but not forgotten item.
The dear old dipstick appears to be reaching the end Clearly todays vehicles have such tight tolerances that oil
of the road, with some of todays vehicles replacing consumption is no longer an issue.
them with electronic warning devices.
Not that todays generation of drivers have any interest in
Now I always find it satisfying to dip the oil particularly maintaining their vehicles.
after a long run in the classic. Not only can you detect
the usage of oil, but you can discern if the oil has I think we are going to extremes with our modern vehicles. An
turned to sludge and needs changing. electric handbrake?? Really what next!
Bert Howard sent me this photo of a three
wheel Morgan he spotted in Mornington
recently.
I believe it is one of the “new” three wheelers
being produced by Morgan , and proving very
popular world wide.
IR
The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020 21From the Archives
The Clubs Swap Meets This event was conducted in 1971,72,73 and finally in 1974.
Th first mention of club organised Swap meets is in 1968. In 1975 the now annual club swap meet was to be held in
To be held in May in conjunction with the Veteran car club Gisborne on Mothers Day!
the swap day was held at Semco Park Reserve Road The new venue was said to be spacious, scenic and with no
Cheltenham. parking problems.
Semco was a factory manufacturing sewing thread, and it Organisers were Brian Glassell and Mal Grant.
is assumed there was surrounding grassed area where the This event evoked a very emotional letter from a member
event was held! complaining that the event was being dominated by dealers
A fine day saw a great turn out of buyers, many parts rather than private sellers.
appeared to change hands and there was reported to be Seems there was also some comment about the date being
large amounts of rusty iron available. a little unsuitable!
Highlight was the appearance of Harry Formby in his “as 1976 saw a new initiative, to attract the club’s country
found” Essex complete with 1933 registration label and rear members the annual swap meet was held in Woodend at the
seat radio. (where is it now?) racecourse.
In 1969 a club swap meet was scheduled to be held The report indicated that over 2000 people attended the
at Scherkoltz Cottage in Nunawading in the month of swap day from all parts of Victoria.
November. It was suggested if attending you bring along There were 137 stalls, many people went away happy
some food! It was deemed to be very successful! having found that elusive part. Brian Glassell was the event
In 1970 it was decided to combine the clubs annual concours organiser.
judging day with a swap meet, it was timed for late October For 1997 the Invitation swap day and auction was held
of that year. It was held at Rowville Drive in theatre. at Flemington racecourse in the members car park, on a
Sunday. Entry was 20 cents per person and sites were $2
Pre 1941 cars were to be admitted free. “picnic under the
trees in the members car park, some catering on site. Acres
of parking and selling sites.”
Editor’s note
In those times the members car park was about half the
size it is today with a lot of mature trees for shade. The
racecourse in those days was run by the racecourse
manager, who was easy to get on with, no large bureaucracy
like today!!
For our younger members this was located in Stud Road,
close to the intersection with Wellington Road. Sites were to It was reported that there were 130 sites and around 1500
be one dollar each! An added attraction was the checking buyers. Brian Glassell was again the organiser with special
of club vehicles for the newly introduced limited registration thanks to Ian Hayme.
scheme. Flemington racecourse was again the venue in 1998,
In 1971 the event again at Rowville was now well established however it seems to have been affected by the weather. As
attracting approximately 100 selling sites, it was reported the only about 63 sites were occupied. Bill Botterill seems to
venue was nearly at capacity! The club held a parts auction have been the organiser and a list of then current members
every hour and the club’s spare parts department did good were acknowledged. Garry Jewell and Ken Johns were
trade. As well 11 cars and 2 motorcycles were presented included in this list!
for judging! Fraser Carless appears to have been the event In 1979 the 21st year of the club everything was to change
organiser for this series of swap meets. with the promotion of the Annual Spectacular at the Royal
Some members involved at this time included Jim Cox, John Melbourne Showgrounds. The swap meet, undercover for
Shorland and Jack Bone. Phil Kenny of Melbourne Towing the first time, was a major component of the Spectacular held
Company provided the vintage truck for the auction platform initially as a two day event on the Saturday and Sunday.
22 The Vintage Driver — Number 745 — February 2020You can also read
