On the 14th of August 1960, the Club of SA held its first Race Meeting.

This race meeting at Port Wakefield became a forerunner in the continuing history of motor sport by the Austin 7 Club in South Australia.

On the 15th of August 2010, the Club will celebrate 50 years of this history at Mallala Motor Sport Park with a special program of Modern Regularity events with reunions, invitations and memorabilia displays.

AUSTIN 7 CLUB OF S.A. INC

2010 COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT: RALPH DRAGE, 37 DeCastella Avenue, Wynn Vale 5127 Ph: 8251 2637 (H) Mob: 0418 846 082 email: [email protected]

SECRETARY: GRAHAM BUESNEL, 12 Sutherland Ave, Semaphore Park 5019 Ph: 8449 4764 (H) Mob 0438 794 979 email:[email protected]

TREASURER: KEVIN HALEY, 3 Heron Walk, Mawson Lakes 5095 Ph: 8262 2983 (H) email: [email protected]

ASST TREASURER: LYN CLERKE, 9 Talbot Road, Port Vincent 5581 Ph: 8853 7191 (H) Mob: 0428 851 139 email: [email protected]

ASST SECRETARY VIC WARD, 17 East Tce Hawthorndene 5051 Ph: 8278 7278 (H) email: [email protected]

COMPETITION CHRIS WATTERS, 224 Dawkins Road, Lewiston 5501 SECRETARY Ph:8524 3178 (H) email: [email protected]

REGISTRAR & GEOFF STEPHENS, 198 St Bernards Road, Hectorville 5073 LOG BOOKS: Ph: 8365 1343 (H) Mob: 0437 061 569 email: [email protected]

SPARES MANAGER DAVID GREAR, 19 Woodfield Avenue, Warradale 5046 & Vice President: Ph: 8296 1689 (H) email: [email protected]

TOURING: BRENTON SPANGLER, 42 Hamilton Ave, Warradale 5046 Ph: 8376 1924 (H) Mob: 0410 471 078 email: [email protected]

RICK HOFFMANN, 8 Rothwell St, Morphett Vale 5162 Ph: 8325 3776 (H) Mob: 0408 898 736 email: [email protected]

PROPERTY: Vacant

EDITOR, A7 Journals: DAVID SEARLES, 33 Hughes Street North, Woodville 5011 Ph: 8445 1444 (H) Mob: 0408 700 047 email: [email protected]

**************************************************************************************** CAMS Delegate: TONY MORGAN, Ph: 8264 7179 email: [email protected]

LIBRARIAN: RON BURCHETT, 40 Johnson Parade, Blackwood 5051 PH 8278 3197 (H) email: [email protected]

**************************************************************************************** All correspondence to: The Secretary AUSTIN 7 CLUBROOMS: 262 TAPLEYS HILL ROAD, SEATON 5023 The Austin 7 Club SA Internet address is: www.austin7clubsa.com.au Austin 7 Journals Page 2 July 2010

Austin 7

Journals

Volume 193 July 2010

PRESIDENT’S PREAMBLE Once again there have been a number of good club activities since the last Journals, many of which you will read about in this edition. If you have anything you think may be of interest to other club members or have a specific activity you would like the committee to schedule into the calendar, please don’t hesitate to let me or one of the other committee members know.

In the last Preamble I advised that the club will be celebrating 50 Years of Motor Racing at Mallala on Sunday August 15 where the Modern Regularity State Championship & Superkart race meeting will be run. We have been able to contact a number of the entrants & officials who were at that first meeting & they are being invited to join us again on the day. In addition, several of the that raced that day have been located & their owners are being invited to have them on show. A letter has been sent to most Federation clubs that have cars of the era inviting their members to join us on that day and, for those who bring their pre 1960’s cars, may be invited to participate in a lunchtime parade. A plaque is being struck to commemorate this event.

There are a couple of long distance runs coming up that you may be interested in joining. They are  Oct 16 / 17 - A weekend run to the Yorke Peninsula to participate in MAPS (Maitland Automobile Preservation Society) 25th Birthday celebrations.  Nov 30 – Dec 5 – A tour of Kangaroo Island  Easter 2011 – Austins Over Australia in Forbes (NSW). A number of members have already expressed an interest in attending this event. Entry forms are now available. Limited accommodation may be available. If would like to join in on any the above, please contact Brenton Spangler.

At the time of writing this preamble, the job of Property Manager is still vacant. If you think you have the time and would like to assist the club by becoming the Property Manager, please let me or one of the other committee members know.

Whilst on the subject of the clubrooms, the committee had decided a while ago to have another shed erected to replace the old derelict “tennis” shed & enable all spare parts to be house in 1 location. Whilst pricing this was being undertaken, further discussions were being held about the clubroom maintenance & other improvements that were required. These discussions concluded with the committee agreeing not to spend any money on the existing clubrooms until the possibility of selling it & replacing it with a more suitable one is investigated. This is based on the thought that it may be possible, more beneficial & more cost effective, to get a building located with other buildings on a common property (Strata title) where the park is utilized by other businesses during the day & we utilize it during the evening & some weekends. The investigation is now well underway and members will be informed of the outcomes.

I would like you to join me in welcoming the following new members & wish them a long & enjoyable time within the club.

Paul Langley Richard Stephens David Staggs Keith Finch Clive Schlegelmilch Tom Black Jarrad White

Ralph Drage President Austin 7 Journals Page 3 July 2010

AUSTINS OVER AUSTRALIA 2011 FORBES, NSW

Friday 22nd to Monday 25th April

NEWSLETTER NUMBER 1:

The Austin Motor Vehicle Club of NSW has selected Forbes as the venue for AOA 2011. The interest and co-operation by the local council and all local businesses in Forbes has been extremely positive in the early planning stages. They have offered the use of many local facilities and the closure of streets as required. All accommodation available in Forbes has been reserved for our use and only accommodation not booked by the end of September 2010 will be made available to the general public.

BOOKINGS MUST BE MADE DIRECTLY WITH YOUR CHOSEN ACCOMMODATION PROVIDER.

As Anzac Day falls on Easter Monday in 2011, those interested will be welcome to participate in the local Anzac Day parade.

CONTACT DETAILS: Rally Director, DON GRANT: Phone: (02) 9544 3828 Email: [email protected] Secretary, JENNY BARNETT-BAISTOW: Phone/Fax: (02) 9834 1701 Email: [email protected] Postal Address: The Secretary AOA 2011 PO Box 413 ST CLAIR NSW 2759 or by visiting our web site at www.amvcnsw.com.au/aoa11.html ------ EXPRESSION OF INTEREST I wish to express my interest in attending Austins Over Australia 2011 based in Forbes NSW SURNAME: FIRST NAME: TELEPHONE: MOBILE: EMAIL: POSTAL ADDRESS: VEHICLE DETAILS: NUMBER ATTENDING: Adult/s: Children: CLUB: SIGNED: DATE:

Austin 7 Journals Page 4 July 2010

COMING EVENTS

July 2010 18 Modern Regularity Round 4 at Mallala Motor Sport Park. 20 Leisure Run to Aldgate Pump Hotel. 25 Hills Luncheon & Run. Assemble at Olive Grove Hazelwood Park at 10am then to Uraidla Oval for a supplied morning tea but BYO tea/coffee & chair. Departure for Lobethal and the Bierhaus Restaurant, arriving for lunch at 12.15pm. 26 A7 Enthusiasts Night at the clubrooms 7.30pm Austin 7 spares from 7pm.

August 2010 2 Committee Meeting. 9 Club Meeting at the clubrooms, 8pm with A7 spares open from 7pm, please bring plate of supper to share. 13 Entries close for this year’s Bay to Birdwood Run. Eligible vehicles up to 31 Dec 1955. 15 A7C Day Run to Mallala incorporating celebrations of 50 years of motor racing by the Austin 7 Club SA. 15 Modern Regularity Round 5 at Mallala Motor Sport Park. 16 Getting to know you evening at the clubrooms. 17 Leisure Run. 23 A7 Enthusiasts Night at the clubrooms 7.30pm Austin 7 spares from 7pm. 27 Quarterly Luncheon to the Broadway Hotel. Contact Marie Drage if you are coming.

September 2010 13 Club Meeting at the clubrooms, 8pm with A7 spares open from 7pm, please bring plate of supper to share. 19 A7C Day Run. Funkhana day at the ‘Watters’ via the whispering wall morning tea stop. 21 Leisure Run. 26 Bay to Birdwood Run commemorating 30 years of the Bay to Birdwood. 26 Modern Regularity Round 6 at Mallala Motor Sport Park. 28 A7 Enthusiasts Night at the clubrooms 7.30pm Austin 7 spares from 7pm.

October 2010 11 Club Meeting at the clubrooms, 8pm with A7 spares open from 7pm, please bring plate of supper to share. 17 A7C Day Run. 19 Leisure Run. 25 A7 Enthusiasts Night at the clubrooms 7.30pm Austin 7 spares from 7pm.

November 2010 7 Modern Regularity Round 7 at Mallala Motor Sport Park. 8 Club Meeting & AGM at the clubrooms, 8pm with A7 spares open from 7pm, please bring plate of supper to share. 13/14 Bendigo Swap Meet. 16 Leisure Run. 22 A7 Enthusiasts Night which as usual at this time of the year incorporates a short run in your Austin 7 to a pasta/pizza style restaurant. 26 Quarterly Luncheon. 28 A7C Day Run.

During the period November 30 to December 5 the club has organised a trip over to Kangaroo Island. Brenton Spangler is handling bookings for this event but bookings will have to close soon. Please see Brenton at the next meeting if you are interested in coming along.

Austin 7 Journals Page 5 July 2010

The following article on the Austin Seven Club’s Race Meeting at Port Wakefield on 14th August 1960 was reported in the Australian Motor Sports magazine of October 1960.

RACE MEETING Port Wakefield 14th August, 1960

On August the fourteenth, the Austin Seven Club of South Australia made history by organizing a race meeting at Port Wakefield. From small beginnings a few years ago, this club has increased in stature and for the past two years has had a reputation for the smooth organizing of sprints. Last year, it was decided to take the big plunge, and under the direction of President Max Bowden, the Committee and members worked like navvies with the result that on the day everything went like well oiled clockwork. One innovation was in the timekeeping department. Max Bowden suggested to one of the Committee members that a large clock on the opposite side of the track to the timekeepers might be the answer. This worthy agreed, then blandly said he didn't know of a suitable clock movement and proceeded to make one. The finished product excited quite a lot of comment having a matt black dial four feet in diameter with yellow hands and figures. With all timekeepers quite new to the job the only trouble experienced was when stop watches were used.

One thing that caused anxiety during the week preceding the meeting was the wet weather, but the rain stopped on the Saturday and Sunday could not have been improved on.

Six entries were received from Victoria and five arrived in good condition and rarin' to go. Of these Jim Doherty and crew were certainly the unluckiest. They were only able to keep the car going long enough for the first laps of their three races. It seems the engine is just too good for the transmission.

The first race, traditionally, was for Austin Sevens only. Unfortunately the entry list was but three, one 1937 tourer and two specials. Bruce Forster drove well from front marker and led until the third lap when Terry Ireland in his superbly built special whistled past. On the fourth and last lap the other special driven by the redoubtable Bruce (Blue) Berry also passed the tourer on braking at Dunlop corner and finished just in front of Forster.

Division One Scratch saw Greg McEwin in the as always immaculate MacHealey take first place from flagfall. Bill Pile in the Cooper Climax Special went much faster than ever before and took second place. Dud Dansie in the B.B.M. started well in second place, but slipped back to finish third well behind the two front boys, but well clear of everyone else. Garrie Cooper in his 1172 side valve Elfin put up a staggering performance to finish a few lengths behind Jim Goldfinch in the 100S Austin Healey. Jim Doherty started his series of d.n.f's with diff. trouble and Jack Johnson withdrew the Bedson for unspecified reasons.

In the Division Two Scratch Race Ian Alexander, Billan-court, and Rob. Brosnan, Elfin, had a real dog fight. The Elfin seemed faster and steadier on the corners, but the lighter Renault special accelerated better. Victorian, Russ Court, had his first competition drive in his 1000 c.c. Elfin and motored quite well, but was left behind by the flying foxes in front

As the flag fell in Event 4 and 4a for Saloon and Touring Cars and G.T. machines Victorian Eddie Perkins in the Porsche was slow away, but put the matter beyond doubt by the hairpin and thereafter treated the populace to a demonstration of top notch driving in a first class car. George Reynolds in the VW with a Porsche engine left everyone else for dead, but could not match the handling of David Calvert's car.

Austin Seven Club Trophy Race In this event Bill Pile in his Cooper climax sprang a surprise by passing Greg. McEwin on the first lap. Thereseter these two turned on a real dice with a determined Greg MeEwin trying very hard to get past and an equally determined Bill Pile trying to stop him. Bill was successful in his endeavours, but until the flag fell it was any-body's race. John Newmarch circulated in fine style at a steady 1:06 sec. for six out of seven laps with the fifth one at 1:07. Rob. Brosnan, Elfin, showed Russ Court, Elfin, the

Austin 7 Journals Page 6 July 2010 best way around the circuit in the race. The lesson must have included how not to do it as both spun off the hairpin on the fifth lap, but continued.

Touring Car and G.T. Handicap Here the handicappers proved to be right on the ball as scratchman Eddie Perkins conceded two minutes fifteen sec. to limit man W. Wright in a VW for a 6 lap event. Mel McEwin, Skoda, took over first place in the second lap and held it until the last corner when George Reynolds VW, accelerated past. Eddie Perkins was about 150 yards behind in fifth spot and the rest of the field covered about two hundred yards.

Sports and Racing Car Handicap Again the handicapping was remarkably acute as 4 sec. after J. Goldfinch crossed the line Greg McEwin, Ian Alexander and Bill Pile finished in that order and were all credited with the same time. The Austin Sevens re appeared for this race and Terry Ireland passed Blue Berry in the third lap only to lose power and see Blue repass on the last lap.

Events 8 and 8a Eric Spehr, Simca, started this race with a slow leak in his nearside back tyre. This was forcibly brought to his notice when he spun just after passing Frank Baldock in a similar machine. A somewhat startled Frank took his car around on the outside and continued while Eric pressed on to catch up all but a few lengths at the finish. Mel. McEwin circulated very steadily in his standard Skoda (it's a fact, he pulls the Tornado with it) to hold off Ken Virgin and Peter Coffey. Russ Court had by now found out where all the corners were but a slight mis-calculation at Dunlop caused him to spin on the third lap and the experienced Eddie Perkins took first place from him in the last few yards.

After the noise had died down the Committee congregated with huge grins and Max Bowden said, "Right, now next year ...”

OFFICIAL RESULTS AND LAP TIMES. Event 1-Austin 7 Handicap, 4 laps. Event 5 - Austin 7 Club Trophy Race, 8 laps 1. 17. T. R. Ireland, Austin 7. scratch. 2. 16 R. B. Berry, Austin 7. 1. 6 Palms Service Station, Cooper 3. 18 B. Forster, Austin 7. SpI. 2. 2 R. M. G. McEwin, Machealey. Event 2 division 1 Scratch Race, 4 laps. 3. 7 J. Bruggeman, Capricornia. 1. 2 R.M.G. McEwin, Machealey. 2. 6 Palms Service Station, Cooper Event 6 - Touring & G. T. Handicap, 6 laps. Spl. 1. 32 G. Reynolds, Vic., Y.W. 3. 7 J. Bruggemann, Capricornia. Porsche. 2. 25 M. McEwin, Skoda. Event 3 - Division 11 Scratch Race 3. 33 M. Nancarrow, Lancer 1. 11 J. W. Alexander, Billancourt Event 7 - Sports & Racing Car Handicap, 6 2. 23 R. M. Brosnan, Elfin. laps. 3. 20 R. Court Vic., Elfin. 1. 8 J. Goldfinch, l00S. Winners Time, 5 mins. 15 secs. Fastest 2. 2 R. M. G. McEwin, Machealey. lap, J. Alexander 1.15. 3. 11 J. Alexander, Billancourt.

Event 4 and 4a - and Gran Event 8 - Touring Car & Invitation Handicap, Turisma Scratch Race, 4 laps. 6 laps. 1. 26 K. Virgin, V.W. 1. 25 M. McEwin, Skoda. 2. 30 E. Spehr (Simca) 2. 26 K. Virgin, V.W. 3. 28 Alan Coffey Motors, 105E 3. 28 Alan Coffey Mtrs., lO5E Anglia. Anglia. Event 4a Event 8a - Touring Car and Invitation 1. 31 D. Calvert, Vic., Porsche. Handicap, 6 laps. 2. 32 G. Reynolds, Vic., V. W. 1. 31 D. Calvert, Porsche. Porsche. 2. 20 R. Court, Elfin. 3. 33 M. Nancarrow, Lancer. 3. 32 G. Reynolds, Y.W. Porsche. Winners Time, 9 mins. 33 secs. Fastest lap, D. Calvert 1.07. Austin 7 Journals Page 7 July 2010

INVITATION FOR ALL Austin 7 Club MEMBERS TO ATTEND

a

“GETTING TO KNOW YOU”

EVENING

at the club rooms

262 Tapleys Hill Rd, Seaton

on Monday 16th August 2010 starting at 7.30 pm

This evening will:  provide you with the opportunity to meet other members of the club, both long serving members & those who have more recently joined, and,  help you get the most out of belonging to the club.

 Starting off with a short presentation on what the club is all about, it will be followed by informal discussions with other members whilst enjoying a cuppa.

It will also provide you with an opportunity to:  let your club committee know if there is anything they could be doing to assist you, and,  get to know some of the newer and long serving club members who could help you feel more comfortable when you attend any future club meetings or events.

This invitation is also open to your spouse, as well as other family members & friends.

If you plan on attending this evening, please let Ralph Drage know by either:  Ringing him on 8251 2637 (AH), or  Emailing him at [email protected]

Yours Sincerely

Ralph Drage President

GEOFF STEPHENS K G B Car Audio Services Pty Ltd New address: 22 O.G. Road Klemzig S.A. 5087

* Car Audio * Car Radio Repairs * Alarms * Immobilisers * Hands Free Kits * Central Locking * Speed Alert * Cruise Control

Phone: 8266 1488 Mobile: 0437 061 569 Fax: 8266 1588 Special Discounts to Austin 7 Club members

Austin 7 Journals Page 9 July 2010

IS YOUR VEHICLE A CONDITIONALLY REGISTERED HISTORIC VEHICLE THROUGH THE AUSTIN 7 CLUB?

If so, you must get your Log Book endorsed by the Club Registrar (Geoff Stephens) as soon as possible after you have paid your subscription for 2010 and also if renewing your registration, have Geoff endorse your current Registration Certificate.

The Club requests that you do NOT attend to any verification or updating of log books at Geoff’s business premises – any Austin 7 business should be carried out at the Clubrooms.

Please do your part to preserve the integrity of this conditional registration system we are privileged to have through our Austin 7 Club.

A Special note to members about your vehicle and the Historic Registration Scheme

If you are in the process or have an intention of restoring, buying or building an Austin 7 or any other vehicle normally compliant with the Historic Vehicle Registration Scheme, please be aware that the things that you are doing or purchasing may seem to be OK to you, but you should note that the your vehicle must comply with the Historic Vehicle Code of Practice if you intend registering your vehicle under the Historic Registration Scheme.

Any modification to your vehicle however minor and for whatever reason you consider is appropriate may render your vehicle ineligible for historic registration.

The Code of Practice is available from our Club Registrar, Geoff Stephens, or you can download the Code from the Federation web-site www.fhmcsa.org.au. if in doubt consult with Geoff and make sure your project is not compromised by your actions.

Ian Motley Austin 7 Club Representative Federation of Historic Motoring Clubs

Austin 7 Club List of Members: The Austin 7 Club SA Inc publishes a club member contact list for those members who wish to have their address and telephone number included, this publication is now available from the clubrooms. Austin 7 Journals Page 10 July 2010

Barbara Rix has received the Order of Australia Medal in the recent Queens Birthday Honours. Her husband, Ted, is now referred to as “The Butler’ - Congratulations Barbara.

Austin 7 Journals Page 11 July 2010

Port Vincent Holiday House.

• 200Km And Just 2 Hours away from Adelaide is a four bedroom holiday house. • It accommodates 8 persons in • 2 Double beds & • 4 Single beds. • All you need to take is your linen, food & whatever you drink. • The town has a Hotel, restaurant, Hardware & 3 General stores. • 2 Petrol Stations & auto-gas is available. • For further information call Trevor or Lyn Clerke on 08 88537191 or • 0428 851 139.

Club regalia for sale: The club has a variety of items of interest to members which are available from the Treasurer each meeting at the clubrooms.

Austin 7 Club Decal small: $1.00 Austin 7 Club Decal large: $2.00 Austin script hat/lapel badge: $3.00 Austin 7 Club Badge Cloth: $3.00 Austin 7 Club Cap $12.50 Austin 7 Club Hat $12.50 Austin 7 Club Badge Metal Radiator $20.00 Austin 7 Club 50th year history book: $20.00 Austin 7 Short Sleeve Yellow & Blue top: $20.00 Austin 7 Short Sleeve Dark Blue 3 button top $28.00 sizes in stock M,L, & XL. Austin 7 Long Sleeve Polar Fleece Jumpers: $45.00 sizes in stock S,M,L & XL.

Austin 7 Journals Page 12 July 2010

220 Main North Road Prospect SA 5082

Autoglass Replacement & Repairs

Tinting Cars

Glass Cut

Insurance work billed direct

All major cards accepted

RAA Members Welcome

Austin 7 Club Members Welcome

Lindsay Dean Mob 0408 269 444 Ph 08 8269 4444 Fax 08 8269 5537

Austin 7 Journals Page 13 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Austin 7 Club run to Waitpinga Beach & Ingalalla Falls. Sunday 18th April 2010

Twelve cars and 26 people gathered at the Victoria Hotel car park, O’Halloran Hill at 9-30am. The cars ranged from a vintage Austin through the classics to a modern Toyota Hybrid.

The convoy moved off at 10am to travel to the Myponga markets where members and guests browsed and bought some items – mainly bakery items and hot drinks. After about a one hour stop all then drove to a lookout at Parawa via Yankalilla. Rain had been threatening during the morning, so to stop this Ralph demonstrated how to lower the canvas roof on his M G and whilst doing that advertised the vehicle was for sale!

After observing the great view of the valley and reading the interesting history of the area on the information board, all cars had arrived at the lookout, so we moved off to travel to Waitpinga Beach and our lunch venue.

I take this opportunity to thank Rick Hoffman for co-ordinating the day and supplying the run sheet – I’m not sure if we all got lost at one stage because of “follow the leader” or a line was omitted from the run sheet?? One of the great things about club day runs is that we get to see locations around Adelaide that we hear about but never go there, this certainly applied to most of us with regard to Waitpinga Beach – it was well worth the visit! Nearby in the National Park is Dennis Hut which was built in 1890 and became the venue for our picnic lunch. Much fellowship, eating and drinking continued until we were on the road again to Ingalalla Falls.

Picnic lunch at Dennis Hut near Waitpinga.

Barb & Ted Rix having their private lunch with Star in the car.

On the way out of the National Park we encountered Barb and Ted Rix who because of their dog, Star, who was having a day out as well, had an “discussion” with the park ranger about “Star” – fortunately the ranger left after a warning only! Austin 7 Journals Page 14 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Arthur and Nadia were seen driving Ralph’s MG Midget - at this stage, has ownership changed hands??

On the viewing platform at Waitpinga Beach.

Part of the road to Ingalalla Falls is extremely steep, so a couple of the cars stayed at the top whilst the remainder took the challenge. At the car park smoke was seen coming out of the Morris Ute and 120Y brakes, but no harm was done. A short walk along a grassy path revealed the picturesque falls and creek.

A couple of the fit (younger) people of the group climbed the rocks to the top of the falls – we were told it was worth the effort for the view. On the stroll back, the rains came, so we said a quick good bye and dashed to our cars for the trip home. I’m not sure who, if anyone got wet in the topless MG??

Another great Austin 7 club day……..Laurie Sutton

Austin 7 Journals Page 15 July 2010

PAST EVENTS GATHERING AT THE COORONG 24 to 26 April 2010

A small gathering of Austineers congregated at Mt Barker for our adventure to the Coorong. It was great to meet up with Greg & Julie Lindsay from Victoria in their Austin 7, they thought it was wonderful, two Austin trips on consecutive weekends. After this trip they were then joining David Grear & Co for the A7 trip to Burra next week-end.

We all travelled in a variety of cars Ralph in his A95, Rick in his BMW, Dave Hall in a Merc, Keith & Wendy in their FJ, and 2 others including ourselves in modern cars. Good travelling weather, sunny but cool to Strathalbyn for lunch and did I forget to mention we also had morning tea at the start. Our tour leader, Ralph, then guided us to Wellington Ferry and on to Meningie. It was here, Andrew welcomed us, afternoon tea was laid on, and we all know the A7 Club runs on its stomach. Deb was out supporting the local footy team that by some fluke, according to the locals, had beaten the Ramblers.

The view from their lounge is always lovely of Lake Albert; hopefully the lake will be there for some time as it is beginning to dry up, due to the dam at one end. Lounging around is only temporary on an Austin trip and we were given a quiz sheet that took us around the town. We all said, “we’ll have a chance of winning this as David Searles isn’t here”. Sorry David, we really did miss your company!! The drive around was a very good idea, Arthur & I, as well as others had no idea Meningie was so built up with lovely new houses including some magnificent mansions. One question caused a few laughs, about what one could NOT do at the look-out. Lots of suggestions! It turned out the answer was Arthur’s favourite past time & mine. Stop guessing the answer was “Camping”

A well-earned rest at the Lake Albert Motel, unpacking, for those who like me, had packed as if they were going for a week, or maybe I was practising for our Europe trip. Helen, being one of the more active people in the group went for a walk to stretch her legs, whilst we all lounged around before moving off for tea at the Dawes’ residence.

A feast of Coorong Mullet was our fare and what a delicious meal it was, mouth-watering combined with a simple salad!! What more could you ask for! Well Andrew came up with another piece de resistance (practising my French just in case) PANCAKES, with Maple Syrup, or Honey, or Cream, or Lemon and our waist lines expanded.

Apart from the wonderful food I have to describe the shed. A HUGE shed with Austin neon signs, 4 Austin cars including a 1929, . Immaculate, as were all his cars with their gleaming paintwork. Deb and Andrew had long tables down the length of the shed and a Patio heater to keep us warm, various Castrol enamel Austin 7 Journals Page 16 July 2010

PAST EVENTS signs & car memorabilia on the walls, 2 petrol bowsers, a working radiogram from the 50’s and a magnificent old clock, rather like an old railway station clock. There was still room for a group of line-dancers.

We all disbanded around 9:30pm it had been a long day and well… breakfast was at 8am.

The weather was behaving, rained at night then sunshine as we opened the curtains in the morning. A return trip to The Dawes’ and from the big SHED wafted smells of toast, bacon & eggs, also cereal & juice and tea & coffee were on hand. A walk around the town for some of the ladies; whilst the men had a working bee on Andrew’s double-decker bus. Promptly at 11am it was all aboard for a trip to destination unknown. Marie led the singing of “The Wheels on the Bus went round & round all the way to Town”. Town was actually not the destination, instead a very picturesque picnic spot at Long Point.

It was quite an out of the way spot or two Winnebago campers must have thought until a vintage truck and a double–decker bus turned up with a group of 20 plus people. The local Car Club had put on a BBQ lunch with salads (what a selection) and fruit cake & custard for dessert. Many thanks to the members of the Coorong Mechanical Restorers Club, who came along & made lunch for us. A short walk after lunch to take in the views and pristine coastline or some just sat around and chatted before heading back to Meningie for a rest before dinner. Some of us had luck at the Pokies didn’t they Dave! Others like me promptly gave the machines $2 in a short space of time before leaving.

Promptly at 6pm our bus driver turned up to take us to the Cheese Factory Restaurant for Dinner, which used to be a dairy in bygone days. Dinner consisted of Roast Turkey or Beef and vegetables, then a choice of desserts. Again after another long day the party broke up about 10pm and we headed back to the motel with plenty of wisecracking tips to Andrew our driver and host. For some, the night ended very well because Port Power had beaten St Kilda!

Next morning we came together at The Big Shed for a breakfast of cereal, toast, eggs & bacon etc. Thank you to Andrew & Debbie seems inadequate after all they did for us. Memories and waistlines expanded, we all took leave of our generous hosts and headed for Strathalbyn retracing our steps of Saturday. Lunch at the bakery then we headed our separate ways home.

Why is it that the pleasant times seem to fly by??

Thanks again to all the organisers for a wonderful relaxing week-end.

Nadia & Arthur

Austin 7 Journals Page 17 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Pre War Austin 7 Run to Burra 1st and 2nd May 2010 On a pleasantly sunny Saturday morning some of us who met at the clubrooms headed off to meet the remainder waiting at the BP Mawson Lakes. After a bit of a chat we headed north towards Kapunda our first stop for morning tea at the bakery. We swarmed into the bakery almost overwhelming the sole lady serving

In the main street of Kapunda, a dozen or so Austin 7’s lined up to create a scene never to be repeated.

After morning tea the Austins proceeded to Eudunda where we parked outside Dale & Dianne Palamountain’s 50’s BMC garage for a photo session. With continued good weather we headed off towards the towns of Point Pass and Robertstown. Our lunch time spot was the Burra Creek Gorge where after lunch we indulged in a little motor sport activity of trying to run over a cup of water with the front left wheel, but done at speed. This activity took up most of our time at the Burra Creek Gorge and was enjoyed by those doing their bit, the winner of this contest was Gayle Carver in her 1932 Austin 7. Continuing on to Burra, the journey was not completed by David Searles’ 1928 Chummy due to water loss and overheating, arriving in Burra on the back-up trailer. Further examination revealed inadequacies in the radiator. Others had problems too in the overheating department including Gerry Lang, Chris Watters and Gayle Carver. It turned out that three of the sevens required new Austin 7 Journals Page 18 July 2010

PAST EVENTS radiator cores in the ensuing weeks. We were all accommodated at Paxton Cottages with our meals over the Burra Creek at the Burra Hotel Return home on Sunday was after wandering the streets of Burra – another good pre-war A7 run, not without its dramas but enjoyable all the same.

An ideal picnic spot beside the Burra Creek at the Gorge

We parked our Sevens under the shady trees at the Gorge

Vic Ward just missed the plastic cup while Gayle Carver was a little more accurate.

Chris Wright had his turn along with Geoff Stephens who got a little side-tracked. Austin 7 Journals Page 19 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Doggy Day Run – Sunday 16th May 2010

The sun shone promising a perfect 21° day, we packed food and drinks for us and Digby Dawg, our Staffie-X best friend into Leigh’s Land Rover and headed for Para Vista spying an Austin with two happy black Scottie dogs heading the same way. We finally arrived at the Golding Oval dog area, noticing a few others had come in their Austins, and let our dogs loose to socialize while we humans did the same. It was amazing to see about 20 dogs doing what dogs do best - nose to nose or nose to tail to see who had what then take turns to pee on the nearest tree and all getting on famously. It was the long and the short of dog breeds with Star, the white standard Poodle head and shoulders over Staffie puppy Gypsy and the King Charles Spaniel puppy of Ralph’s grandchildren. Dougal - the mop – er Pouli a character on springs and dear old Jackson the Retriever, Candy the Poodle, Wally the Border Collie, a whippet, foxy, and so many more.

Brenton gave out doggie bags and it was heads down to see what goodies were in there and our pooches were soon munching on dog treats. There was also a bottle of water, a dish to drink from, a little ball and what most of the owners needed at some stage, a poop bag. We humans were given a quiz to fill out in the form of pages from Gregory’s Travel Diary with 10 questions like “What is a traditional dog’s name and a car?” The answer to be found on page 163 being a street name = A6 - Rover of course!!

We were soon off again over Montague Road to the Paddocks Reserve Dog Park for our morning tea where Ron with Shelley joined us while our four legged friends did their own thing checking out more new smells and potential friends. Ralph’s lunch bag was the target of a foreign dog and got peed on. None of our charges would do that now!

Our next stop was the Tedder Reserve Pooch Park on Findon Road, off Grange Road. This is a lovely big treed park and where we came upon Dougal, Bron & Jeff Steven’s Puli pup doing a Mexican stand-off with a dog sign and trying to be very brave. Here the big guys met a whole new bunch of doggie pals while some of the little ones were showing signs of slowing up.

Getting to the next stage gave Digby time to recharge his batteries as he snored most of the way to the dog park on Oaklands Road Marion for a short visit…Brenton gave us a few clues to help with our travel quiz before we all drove on to the lovely Oaklands Reserve behind the driver training centre, for our lunch stop where Michelle and David Grear joined us. Everyone took time to relax before walking on to view the duck pond and the Japanese Garden which had suffered from the drought. As we walked Brenton referred to Cindy as Cynthia (now I had seen that street name on the map too) we Austin 7 Journals Page 20 July 2010

PAST EVENTS took note. His Staffie-X walks herself carrying her leash in two neat loops.

Finally, quiz sheets to the ready and I could have been in at the end but I forgot to change my Question 8 from Amanda to Cynthia – drat! It came down to two finalists, Bronwyn and Barbara Rix so a decider had to be added and Bron came out the winner receiving a ball thrower, 2 balls “’cos you’ll lose one,” a dog rug and a pet shammy.

We left the group here as they went on to one more stop before finishing up at the Goodwood Orphanage doggy park.

Thank you Brenton and Cindy for a great day out with our best friends, I am sure every man, woman, child and dog thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Marilyn and Leigh Thomas

Sunday morning 16 may, I had to get cracking early to get my owner, Ron, moving, as he’s usually a bit sluggish of Sunday mornings. After full-on Saturday’s, and he’d promised to take me on a doggy day run. He had intended to take me in the seven Ruby, but he got cold feet at the start and decided to go in the modern Mazda 121 because he said it was going to be a bit of a rush.

We headed off and had a lovely drive to a wonderful doggy park in Maxwell Ave near Parafield. Soon after we arrived about 6 doggy friends turned up with their owners in a variety of vehicles.

A lovely fellow called Brenton gave me my own personal bag of doggy treats and a drink, but Ron made me wait till later, muttering something about diet and overweight – don’t know what he was on about.

There were doggy friends all shapes and sizes and we got on together very well – only a couple of times did I have to warn off over-interested ‘sniffers’. While we were all having fun the owners all seemed to enjoy morning tea from picnic baskets. After about 45 minutes the owners rounded us up and we all hopped into our cars and drove off.

I didn’t find out afterwards that my miserable owner had short-changed me and that there were three other parks that we missed – something about having to get back home for a lunch commitment!

However, being a dog, I learnt a long time ago that you have to be satisfied with your lot whatever comes along.

Thank you Brenton for a nice day. Shelley Burchett.

Austin 7 Journals Page 21 July 2010

PAST EVENTS 34th Historic Winton – 60th Anniversary of the Austin 7 Club Victoria 29/30 May 2010

Historic Winton had special significance this year with the Victorian Austin 7 Club celebrating its 60th anniversary and to help celebrate this, a parade lap of Winton was planned for Austin 7’s. With this in mind, David Grear decided that his Meteor was to go to Winton to take part. So a few of us, including Andrew Dawes set off for Winton. It was quite a roll call of SA members going to Winton including Ashleigh & Robert Ford’s Group Nb Morris Cooper ‘S’; Jason Armstrong also with his Morris Cooper ‘S’; Scott Appleyard in his ‘Doc’ Grosvenor Austin 7; Geoff Redin with the Uffindel Austin 7 & Ian Motley in his Austin 7 Special. It was good to catch up again with the Victorian members who are regular border runners and regular behind the scenes officials at Winton.

Apart from the Austin 7 Club milestone Peugeot’s were there celebrating 120 years.

The Austin 7 garage housed cars of Scott Appleyard, with Victorian A7 members Trevor Cole, Stuart Krug, Stuart Steinfort & John Marriott

Ian Motley equipped himself with reliability at Winton by entering as an invited car in the Lou Molina & Col Arthur Waite Trophy Races. Ian’s car performed well as indeed did the driver. The weather was cold on the Saturday consisted of showers for most of the day, whereas Sunday was bright and sunny. Austin 7 Journals Page 22 July 2010

PAST EVENTS

Scott Appleyard in his ‘Doc’ Grosvenor Special & Robert Ford in his Morris Cooper ‘S’

Geoff Redin, driving the Uffindel Austin 7 and Jason Armstrong in Morris Cooper ‘S’ #77.

Thanks to Geoff Redin who wrote the above article that featured in the Winton Programme

Austin 7 Journals Page 23 July 2010

PAST EVENTS 55 years of Border Runs SA & Vic Austin 7 Clubs

Friday 11th saw us early runners meet at The Keith Stephenson Park at Mount Barker and 10am we headed off in convoy after Barbara and Doug Hogg who had made an early start in Bubs followed by Gayle and David Carver. We caught up with them at the Wellington ferry queue and once across the river proceeded along the Coorong to Meningie and Andrew and Debbie Dawes lovely spot on the lake.

Andrew bbq’d lashings of Coorong Mullet served with coleslaw and fifteen of us ate a delicious lunch in their newly built Austin/party room. Val and Alan Baker, Marie and Ralph Drage, Bill and Veronica Gower, Scott Appleyard, Leigh and I made up the lunch group.

Off again along the Coorong to Kingston where we booked into the Lacepede Bay Motel and regrouped for happy hour with nibbles and drinks on the patio overlooking the sea, joined by Julie and Greg Lindsay. As the wine or drink of choice slaked our thirsts so the conversations got louder and continued until we all headed downstairs to the dining room for a light dinner.

Problems with Leigh’s trailer with a few interested onlookers and a few dis-interested ones.

After breakfast on Saturday morning I happened to look over the balcony to see two pairs of legs sticking out from underneath our trailer. Seems the axle had moved back on one side and a nut in the wheel arch had partly shredded the tyre, After various pairs of legs had been under for inspection it was Ralph to the rescue with a proper big car toolkit. A combination of hammer blows plus the trailer winch got the axle close to where it should be. Next a length of timber was located many hands helped lift it and once the tyre was changed we all headed to Cape Jaffa – looking like a housing estate on a waterway.

To Robe and the Pizza Café for lunch after which we girls left the fellas chatting and walked to “Loaves and Fishes” to look at jewellery, napery, little wire wrens were a good buy, essential oils and all sorts of interesting things.

Austin 7 Journals Page 24 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Back on the road to Naracoorte and booked into the Comfort Inn - William MacIntosh motel to settle in, get cars off trailers and catch up with the rest of our group who drove down today plus the Victorian brigade.

Dinner was at the Naracoorte Historic Vehicle Clubrooms catered for by the ladies with chicken, beef and fish casseroles served with rice and followed by apple crumble with fresh cream. A couple of young lads did a mighty job clearing tables as we reckon there would have been about eighty people to dinner. Trevor Cole was introduced as arguably the oldest racing driver still racing and talked about teaching today’s young racing drivers.

A few of us actually crossed the border by driving to Apsley in Victoria to discover this rather quaint art deco style hotel.

On Sunday morning we hopped into our little red and headed off after David and Michele, Julie and Greg, Val and Alan and came upon David Searles with Barb traveling along at a very sedate 30 m.p.h. that had the mechanically minded scratching their heads. A bit further on Sally came up with the idea to advance the

Austin 7 Journals Page 25 July 2010

PAST EVENTS timing (highly technical) and ‘hey presto!’ he came rocketing into Apsley to join us for free tea or coffee in the little deli. Like kids in a sweet shop some bought surprise lolly bags and were disappointed with their selection. The fruit pastilles were yummy!

We had to remove our side curtains as exhaust fumes coming into the car were making us very heavy on the chest. A job to remedy once at home along with the trailer.

Back to the Historic Vehicle Club to take photos, chat and collect our lunch bags before driving to the town park to enjoy ham salad rolls, tubs of fruit, and juice in the sun while the locals came out if force to see our cars. Ian and Cheryl Jones, driving David Garnett’s Austin were having car problems and Leigh was pleased to be able to return many favours by having the required valve spring in his tool box. Jones spent the day getting the car going while Cheryl relaxed with a book, their lunch delivered.

Yallum House at Penola was our destination Sunday for a tour of the historic residence.

Some Austin 7’s in the car park outside Yallum House at Penola.

Austin 7 Journals Page 26 July 2010

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Later we headed to see Father Woods Park with carved pine tree stumps then on to Penola for a coffee fix before joining the first groups 3pm tour of Yallum Park, said to be the best preserved Victorian House in Australia in its original condition. Our host was the 92 year old owner, born in the front bedroom, Mr. Glen Clifford who sat in his gopher and told us the history of this beautiful house and stories of growing up there.

The decorations date from 1879 - William Morris wallpapers with intricate designs, the Italian marble mantel pieces, fireplaces with Minton tiles, beautiful ceiling roses not to mention the magnificent ornate ceilings themselves plus gold leaf pelmets and acid-etched windows and the lovely stained glass window that came to Australia packed in molasses.

The antique furniture included a settee re-upholstered by his mother who also studied painting under the same teacher, James Ashton, as Hans Heysen and many of her artworks hung in the house. The dining room was magnificent and the billiard room with its enormous table and a huge James Ashton painting of ‘Green Bay, Pt. Elliott’ hung on the wall could tell many stories I think. The poet Adam Lindsay Gordon loved to visit Yallum Park and wrote many of his best poems in a little old house on the property. The garden was established in 1880 and has mature trees from all parts of the world. Leigh and I were fascinated with a large bush that had little net packages holding bean sized seeds hanging on it. Mr Clifford’s son Andrew happened by and told us that it is an Allspice Tree. Wow!

We all met at the Naracoorte Golf Club where a roast dinner was served followed by fruit salad or lemon meringue pie. Len Kerwood presented the Athol Lamont trophy to Graeme and Bev Logan.

David Searles mentioned the loss of Kay Butler and Merv Perry, sadly missed and then handed out copies of a souvenir publication celebrating:

55 years of BORDER RUNS 1955 to 2009 Thanks David for a mighty job well done and an interesting read.

Our thanks also to all who helped organize a most enjoyable 56th Border Run.

Marilyn and Leigh Thomas

Austin 7 Journals Page 27 July 2010

PAST EVENTS Barbara and Doug Hoggs’ annual border run with the Austin Seven club to meet the Victorian Austin Seven club members. - Here are the high-lights of our June 2010 annual Border run to Naracoorte in our little 1930 Austin Seven “Bubs” Loaded to the hilt as usual, on the Friday, and after first refusing to start.-- Panic (The little so and so fights me all the way). Leaving at 8 am, and dreading the last gasp climb over the top of old Norton Summit road, the start of which is but several streets from our home at Magill. The little car made it over the top, and we were on our way to the double Tregarthen dips. Letting her rip down each, she made it easily over the tops, and then on to join the free way at Crafers. We arrived at the meeting point at Mt Barker at 9.30 and when other cars arrived including David and Gayle Carver in their little Austin Seven for the departure time at 10 am. We took off early, because Bubs is a slow runner. The run to Wistow and down to Langhorne Creek, the continuing down hill run was perfect, and. “Bubs” ran comfortably across to Wellington. Morning tea was perfect at the little service station, and then the rest of the Friday runners arrived, to find a traffic jam at the punt. I was directed to run up the queue by our group, and we were not popular as my little car fitted nicely between two other parked cars. Running to Meningie, Andrew and Debbie Dawes had a barbecue of Coorong Mullet, ready for a perfect lunch in their large Austin Seven- styled garage. Our 30 mile per hour run along the long road to Kingston was comfortable and the Coorong was almost full of water – a lovely sight. Arriving at the Motel, I was foolish in switching off the engine which refused to start after booking in . (Fighting me again!!). Next day the group decided to travel on to Robe and cross to Naracoorte, but we decided to run direct to Lucindale and on to Naracoorte, and the run was excellent and really relaxed. Holding our speed to 25 miles p/h, the little car was a delight to drive, and the lovely sunny day and smooth road with no other traffic was what Austin Seven driving was all about. Lunch was at beautiful Lucindale for coffee and cake. The motel at Naracoorte was good, and little “Bubs” was behaving herself…to a point, which was worrying about night- time driving with dim lights for the return to the motel after the welcoming dinner. Next day, S.A. A7 member Ian Jones was having trouble with his A7 and I was amazed to see the head off the engine and further excavations into the inner workings, finding a broken valve spring also with odd cotters. Barbara and I forsook the official 60 mile return run to Penola, and I drove “Bubs” with Ian Jones to the town square looking for a valve spring from the Border run group who were having a supplied lunch and a display of the cars. Ian found a valve spring and soon after rebuilt the engine. Later that night was the farewell dinner at the golf club that was located along an unlit road through the scrub. Leaving after the dinner was a problem, feeling along the road at low speed and dim lights. We finally reached the main road and swung into the motels` twisted road and went straight onto an unlit lawn. Leaving for home on Monday we had a wonderful run at 30mph to Keith where we met the rest of our group for lunch. With the traffic getting heavy, we decided to stop at Murray Bridge over-night, for a traffic free run through Kanmantoo to Hahndorf for lunch. Using the top grade high octane unleaded petrol with Flash Lube, the little car behaved beautifully on the run down via Kanmantoo and over the hills to Hahndorf for a relaxing lunch at the Otto`s Bakery. The calming did not last, because the cunning little car decided not to start after lunch, in front of a group of admirers. She had had enough fooling around, and we had to call the RAA man, who could not find the problem, and finally trailered us home to Magill, the tiny car tied down on a huge car carrying trailer. O the ignominy of it all, the first time this has happened in over 30 years and nearly 20,000 MILES. The next day at home, I found the fault..--Coil-- dagger type insert into the cable insert at the top of the coil burnt,.--- plugs wiring frayed under the distributor screw downs. I soldered the lot up at home and she started immediately. We loved the trip and now all is well. Doug & Barbara Hogg Austin 7 Journals Page 28 July 2010

PAST EVENTS DAY RUN TO MINTARO - SUNDAY 27th JUNE 2010

A very cold morning didn’t deter the followers of our Trip Co-ordinator – Rick Hoffman.

Arriving at the Elizabeth Council car park at 9.30am the cold temperature called for the thermos’ to come out, whilst waiting to get our instructions and then on the road for all who had turned out including ‘Star’ our beautiful Standard Poodle, a little after 10am.

Despite the prospect of a freezing day, there was a great turn-out – both old and modern cars set off towards the Gawler South Bakery which certainly was bombarded by all of us – buns, cakes and the treat of a tasty hot pie or pasty in toe. We mingled in a local park and had our morning tea. The odd passer-by amazed at the ‘old cars’, had their photo taken with their dream old automobile.

Off again on the Main North Road, via Roseworthy, Tarlee and Rhynie arriving in Auburn where we assembled and had a quick river walk. Everyone was anxious to get going again onto Mintaro for our lunch at the quaint little Magpie & Stump Hotel. We took over the place and Rick sensibly had arranged a cheap set menu so we were all very well looked after – ooo those chips were so good!!!

Luckily David Searles and Barb arrived in time to eat after detouring via Kapunda to pick up a ‘specially made’ cushion. But, wait there’s more…. They tracked down a unique home-style bakery and rumour might have had it that they may have gone home that way too! - We did!

After lunch some of us went on to a little gift shop and Mintaro Maze, and some braved that experience, and hopefully came out the other end!

Another great day and thanks to all concerned.

Barb and Ted Rix

Laurie O’Connell admiring the décor and enjoying the warmth while others enjoyed their meal at the Magpie & Stump.

Austin 7 Journals Page 29 July 2010

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Austin 7 Journals Page 30 July 2010

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A feature of the above table shows the points gained due to the inclement weather experienced during events 1 & 2.

Austin 7 Journals Page 31 July 2010

CLUB MEMBER PROFILE

Modern Regularity participant John Tiller featured in his local press following his success in last year’s events. See April ’10 Journals for report.

CLUB CLASSIFIEDS

For Sale: - low-mileage stepladder, quite stable most times but can be slightly aggressive on occasions. Has been known to bite - needs retraining. Reluctant forced sale. All offers considered. Contact Ron Burchett.

For Sale: 1947 Austin 16 restoration project 50% done. Engine reconditioned, new exhaust and new wiring loom, seats recovered and panels under coated – all parts there and assistance offered Contact Rick Hoffmann 8325 3776

For Sale: Brian Barber has the ex Merv Perry trailer for sale with new axle brakes and wheels $1500

For Sale: Greg Lindsay 10x5 box trailer no brakes $1200 with ramps and nose.

Austin 7 Journals Page 32 July 2010

Austin 7 Journals Page 33 July 2010

M & C Doyle Crash Repairs

30 Deloraine Road Edwardstown SA 5039.

Ph 8277 7868 www .doylecrash.com.au

Experience - Quality - Reliability

+ Restorations & Unique Finishes + Metal Finishing & Modifications + Plastic Component Repair + Mazda Rotary Specialists + Accident Repairs - Insurance - Private - Fleet

Andrew Dawes sent this email - Here is a picture of a circa 1929 Austin which belongs to a remote member from Mildura and the ute body was put on to deliver milk in the Deniliquin area of NSW. I thought this may be interesting for the magazine.

Austin 7 Journals Page 34 July 2010

MAJESTIC , MAGIC AND MAD year the company ceased to exist? I have M CARS found no information on why this was so. The cars were well built, stylish and MAD FRANCE 1919 competitively priced. A range of voiturettes shown at the Paris Salon. An appropriate name considering MARION – HANDLEY 1916 – 1920 the turmoil of the previous years. An assembled six cylinder car, using mainly Continental engines, this range MAGNETIC ENGLAND 1921 – 1926 was a continuation of the Marion car. In American Entz magnetic transmission 1920 another re-organisation took place was the novel feature of the magnetic. which saw the name change to Handley – Four and eight cylinder sleeve valve Knight. Knight sleeve valve engines were engines were also used. Does anyone used. After about three years the know how the magnetic trans worked? company was finally absorbed by Checker Was it like a big speedo drive? (of taxi cab fame).

MAHINDRA INDIA 1947 to date MARLBOROUGH – THOMAS A very successful company originally ENGLAND 1923 – 1924 assembling Willys Jeeps. The company Only a few of these exiting sports cars now builds Peugeot diesel engines in a were built from a shed at the Brooklands modern engine plant. They also have one Motor Course. The engine was a dohc 1.5 of India’s most up to date vehicle plants litre unit which used leaf valve springs built in 1983 for production. instead of the more usual coil springs.

MAIFLOWER ENGLAND 1919 – MARMON USA 1902 – 1933 1921 Although for ever famous as the winner of No it is not a spelling mistake. This the first Indianapolis 500 Marmon was a Maiflower was based on a model T Ford brilliant company in its own right. The and featured a newly fabricated rear end Nordyke & Marmon Company of and alterations to the front transverse Indianapolis dated back to 1851. From suspension. 1902 to 1908 Marmon built pressure lubricated air cooled V 4’s designed by MAJA AUSTRIA 1906 – 1908 Howard Marmon. From 1909 exiting new Ferdinand Porsche designed this four motors appeared including a 60 hp V8 cylinder 4520cc car for a Jellinek owned and big fours ranging from 40 to 60 hp. company. The name came from the name Then in 1911 the Marmon Wasp racer, a of Mr. Jellinek’s younger daughter; the six cylinder driven by Marmon test driver older daughter was Mercedes. Maja cars Ray Harroun, won the first Indianapolis were built by Austro – Daimler but failed 500. (The car also featured the first to gain much popularity (unlike her older recorded rear vision mirror which meant sister’s cars). that a riding mechanic/spotter was not needed). In 1916 the advanced ohv six of MARION USA 1904 – 1914 5565 cc was launched. This engine was Built in Indianapolis the first cars were so good that it stayed in production for 11 16 hp transverse air cooled motored. By years. From 1927 an all straight eight 1906 the company were producing the policy was adopted which lasted until more conventional in line four cylinder 1931 when the 8046 cc alloy engined V motors for their cars. The 1907 20 hp 16 appeared. This became one of the model had a two speed gear incorporated great American classics. Despite their in the differential unit. In 1908 the success the company folded in 1933. (In company built an experimental V 12 the December 2009 edition of ‘Just Cars’ engine of 9455 cc.. In 1913 orders were is an ad for a 1929 Marmon for sale in so great that a night shift was established South Aust., for only $32,500. I have to cope with the back log. Yet in the next seen this car at the Mt. Gambier Austin 7 Journals Page 35 July 2010

Australia Day Rally and it really is a commercial vehicles during the war the beautiful classic car.) company continued along these lines when hostilities ceased. In 1923 three MASERATI ITALY 1926 To date prototype advanced 2 litre twin ohc six The Maserati brothers were associated cylinder model with four wheel brakes with motor cars from a very early age. were built but the project was shelved. They built 2 litre Grand Prix cars for Diatto in 1925. They then took them over MAYBACH GERMANY 1921 – 1940 the following year when Diatto withdrew After leaving Mercedes in 1907, Wilhelm from racing. The new car driven by Alfieri Maybach collaborated with Graf Zeppelin Maserati won its first race, the 1926 to build aero engines. The factory also Targa Florio. Maserati made its name made marine and motorcycle engines. In with racing cars which used four, six, 1921 Maybach introduced a six cylinder eight and sixteen cylinder engines. sv 5738 cc car (the engine was also sold During the 1930’s road going sports cars to Spyker in Holland). This high quality appeared using de-tuned racing engines. chassis and mechanicals were fitted with One of these cars featured the fearsome exclusive bodywork by the best ‘sedici cilindri’ (two straight eights coachbuilders available. In 1926 a 6995 mounted in parallel, with the crankshafts cc ohv engine appeared and in 1929 a V geared together). In 1937 Omer Orsi took 12 of 6922 cc made its debut. The over control. After the war Maserati capacity was increased to 7977 cc in returned to racing cars with the 250F 1931. All of these cars had 7 speed being the standout. Then in 1958 gearboxes. Always an expensive car the Maserati again withdrew from Maybach continues this theme with the competition to concentrate on current day Maybach being one of the production. In 1969 Citreon took over most luxurious, expensive and exclusive control. As well as continuing with its cars available. sports car range 30 engines were built for the Citreon Maserati SM Grand Touring MAZDA JAPAN 1960 to date model. In 1975 Maserati announced it The Toyo Kogyo Cork Company was was going out of business, but was founded in 1920. They built their first rescued at the eleventh hour by the De three wheeled truck in 1931. The first Tomaso group. With mainly V6 and V8 Mazda car, a 360 cc , appeared in engined sports cars, and luxury 1960. In 1967 Mazda announced its first sedans the name lived on. From 1984 to rotary powered model, the R-100.Mazda’s 1988 Chrysler had a minority stake in dedication to the Wankel (rotary) principle Maserati and their involvement produced saw it win the Le Mans 24 hour race in the TC Coupe. In 1990 Fiat obtained a 1991. This was the first win for a 49% share in Maserati and the company, Japanese car and also the first win for a with new directors, new factory and new rotary powered car. Mazda built its cars returned the Maserati name to the millionth rotary engined car in 1978. In super car fold. 1979 Ford acquired a 25 % of Mazda. Today the Mazda 3 and 6 models are top MAUDSLAY ENGLAND 1902 – 1914, sellers and the Mx5 sports cars are as 1923 close as possible to the traditional pure- Beginning production in 1903 with a bred sports cars of old. The legendary RX three cylinder 24 hp engine with what is series rotary engined sports cars are a thought to be the first ever overhead classic today with the present day RX8 a camshaft engine on a production car, the unique and exciting machine. Maudslay also featured fully pressured lubricated crankshaft. In 1904 two big MERCEDES GERMANY 1901 – 1926 sixes, being exactly double the size of the Emile Jellinek, AUSTRO-Hungarian threes were produced. From 1906 the Consul at Nice (and agent for Daimler company standardised with four cylinder cars), persuaded Wilhelm Maybach to engines. Shifting production to design him a lower, lighter and more Austin 7 Journals Page 36 July 2010 powerful car. Jellinek named this car your old Austin becomes too un- after his eldest daughter Mercedes. comfortable. Initially 35 hp rapid developments followed with the 40/45 hp (6780 cc) and MERCURY USA 1938 to date the mighty 60 hp (9240 cc) with overhead Originally known as the Ford-Mercury, inlet valves and 80 mph (129 k/ph) this 3.9 litre V8 was intended to plug the performance. One of these cars won the gap between the standard Ford and the Gordon Bennett Trophy in 1903 when the luxury Lincoln. The Ford name was official team of 90 hp cars had been dropped in 1940 when a four door destroyed in a factory fire. Maybach left was released. Up grades Mercedes in 1907. He was succeeded by continued and in 1949 the new 4179 cc Paul Daimler. Mercedes dominated the engine appeared, 1951 automatic trans International racing scene before the First available, 1953 power steering was an World War. Touring models included a option and in 1954 the first ohv V8 of wide variety of engines from 1570cc to 4785 cc was fitted. As a lad Mercury’s 9575 cc fours, as well as Knight (sleeve were one of my favourite cars. valve) engined models (I didn’t know that). The 4055 cc engine from this period MG ENGLAND 1923 – 1980 remained in service until 1923. Post War 1982 to date engines included the 7250 cc ohc six, It is unclear when the first MG’s were which Paul Daimler used for his super- produced. It is thought that when Cecil charging experiments. In 1921 and two Kimber, manager of Morris Garages (from small ohc fours of 1568 cc and 2600 cc. where the MG name originated), built six Ferdinand Porsche became chief designer Raworth bodied sports cars on Morris in 1923 and shortly before the 1926 Cowley chassis’s in 1923 this became the amalgamation with Benz produced super- start of the MG marque. Up until 1952 charged 6240 cc engines producing 140 MG built sports and sports touring cars hp and also the Type K with 160 hp. which performed well on the road and in motor sport. In 1952 the company, which MEGY FRANCE 1901 – 1903 was part of the Nuffield Group, With a primitive ‘automatic transmission’ amalgamated with the Austin Motor the clutch and brake were operated by Company to form BMC. Sports and moving the steering wheel up and down. saloon cars continued to be produced up It would have been very interesting to to the 1979 MG B and Midget range. drive. However in 1980 the little Abington factory closed, even after turning down an MERCEDES – BENZ 1926 to date Aston Martin rescue bid. The true MG It is impossible for me to condense into a enthusiasts were not happy with the few paragraphs the history, success and illustrious name tacked onto mildly impact Mercedes Benz have had on warmed Austins. Eventually a new MG motoring and motor sport. From pre arrived with the MG RV8, a reborn 1960’s Second World War SS, SSK and SSKL MG B with Leyland V8 engine. This was supercharged sports cars through to the followed by the mid-engined 1.8 litre MG all conquering racing cars Mercedes F which meant that the pure MG car was reigned supreme. Post War, the 170 back. series was the first to appear (including a diesel engined version), and then in 1952 MILBURN ELECTRIC USA 1914 – came the iconic ‘gull winged’ 300S sports 1922 car. In 1964 the luxury Type 600 The Milburn was especially noted for its appeared with an ohc V 8 of 6330 cc. smooth lines and custom type Mercedes continued to improve their cars craftsmanship. Between 7,000 and 8,000 and today they produce excellent sedans, cars were built before Milburn went out of limosines, sports cars and racing cars. business following a disastrous fire in its They appear to be the make to buy when Toledo factory.

Austin 7 Journals Page 37 July 2010

MILLER USA 1915 – 1932 ‘Stallion’, following the Colt theme, but as Best known for his racing cars and ohc the Japanese have difficulty pronouncing engines (which are a work of machining the letter L, the car name was heard as art), which he built from 1915, Harry the ‘Starion). The sixth generation Galant Miller also built road going cars from of 1987 was the first modern production 1930 to 1932. The most spectacular was car to have four wheel steering. Now with undoubtedly the 400 bhp speedster fitted a huge range of vehicles, including the with dohc 5096 cc V16 engine and four sporting Lancer EVO rally derived sedans wheel drive (another work of art). Not bad to the Dakar rally winning Pajero four for a car built 80 years ago. wheel drives, Mitsubishi, makers of ships, industrial heavy plant, trucks other MINERVA BELGIUM 1904 – 1939 diverse equipment are now a world wide A prototype appeared in 1902 and full motor manufacturer. scale production started two years later with 1, 2, 3 and 4 cylinder cars available. MORA USA 1906 – 1910 Up to 1910 Minerva concentrated on big The only notable thing about the Mora, fours up to 5.9 litre. It then became the which was advertised as the ideal first marque in mainland Europe to adopt gentleman’s car, was that it held the the Knight sleeve valve engine of 6.3 litre, record in 1907 for the ‘World’s Sealed dual ignition and four cylinders (King Bonnet Record’ by covering over 10,000 Albert was an early patron). The first post miles. That would have been impressive war model was the Type NN 20 hp four in 1907. Has anyone not lifted their which was joined in 1921 by a 5.3 litre bonnet in the last 16,000 kilometres? six rated at 30 hp. In 1923 four wheel brakes were fitted and a central gear MORGAN 1910 to date change appeared. The TT model of 1923 The first prototype Morgan three wheeler also featured a sleeve valve engine of was built in the school workshops at under 2 litres. Minerva’s had a proven Malvern College. This basic design sporting image and the straight eight of remained in production until 1950. Also 6616 cc of 1930 only added to this still in use today is the sliding pillar front reputation. Minerva merged with Imperia suspension system. Early model Morgans in 1936 and sadly did not re-appear after used air (later water) cooled JAP or the Second World War. Blackburne V-twin engines. The first four cylinder option appeared in 1933 and MITSUBISHI JAPAN 1917 1959 offered a Ford 8 engine. The first four to date wheeled car appeared in 1936, the 4/4, Founded in 1870 as a shipping company, using a Coventry Climax engine. A series this major industrial group built a series of Ford and Standard engines were used of Fiat based Model A cars in 1917.It in following models. In 1955 the Plus then devoted itself to commercial vehicles Four model was released with the sportier until 1960 (except one diesel powered car Triumph TR engine providing the extra in 1934). Originally 360 cc and 500 cc grunt. 1969 saw the first V8 3.5 litre mini cars were built and it was in 1962 Rover engined Plus Eight make its that the first Colt appeared. Also in 1962 appearance. Morgan retain the ‘old style’ the first six cylinder top of the range sports car image with their designs and Debonair appeared. 1970 saw the as such have a dedicated following of appearance of the new ohc Colt Galant enthusiasts. (I think a Morgan three hardtop and GTO. In 1971 Mitsubishi wheeler competed in an Australian Grand entered into an agreement with Chrysler Prix, at Fisherman’s Bend Melbourne, in whereby Chrysler took a 35 % share of a the early fifties. This may have been the new joint company. The Starion, a 2.6 only time a three wheeler raced in a litre twin turbo charged coupe, was a Grand Prix and also raises the question seriously fast motor car and it caught the as to whether it was a car or a motor- attention sporting drivers. (It is rumoured cycle sidecar. Three wheeled ‘cars were that the car was meant to be called the Austin 7 Journals Page 38 July 2010 registered as sidecars at a much lower and that was a Falcon Knight from the fee). Mount the Barker area. The Falcon Knight although technically an MORRIS ENGLAND 1913 – 1984 Independent make was part of the Willy’s William Morris sold his first car, which he empire and a companion car to the called the Oxford, which was assembled Willys-Knight 70 and the Whippet 6). from components from various manufacturers in 1913. The Oxford was MOSKVITCH RUSSIA 1947 to date joined in 1915 by the Cowley which The first Moskvitch (son of Moscow) was featured a motor and gearbox from the built from pre-war Opel Kadett dies and Continental Motors Company of Detroit. remained with only minor re-styling until Production began in earnest after the 1958 when a new range appeared (why First World War with copies of the US change a good thing). Renault assisted engine made by Hotchkiss. By 1925 with the development of their 1986 Morris car sales made up 41% of British models and later models employed the new car production. In 1927 Morris Lada engines (developed with Fiat aid). acquired Wolseley and six cylinder engines became prominent. Also from the MOTOBLOC FRANCE 1902 – 1930 Wolseley stable came the new Minor, Taking over the designs of Schaudel (a Morris’s entry into the small car market, French car maker from 1895 who powered by a neat ohc 847 cc engine. The produced the first car in the world to 1930’s saw Morris being very successful mount the engine, clutch and gearbox in with 32 models. Following World War Two one rigid casing), Motobloc continued the the first new model was the new Minor. development and by 1907 seven types of This evergreen stayed in production until chassis were listed. The Motobloc engines 1971 and was the first British car to top fitted the flywheel between the middle one million sales. In 1952 Morris and pair of cylinders for smoother running. Austin became BMC and rationalisation Motobloc specialised in strongly built, began. In 1959 the Mini Minor provided a powerful touring cars which were welcomed boost to sales as did the 1100 exported to many countries. in 1963. However in 1968 BMC became British Leyland and the bland Marina was MUNTZ JET USA 1950 – 1954 the last of the Morris cars. A sad end to In 1950 Earl ‘Madman’ Muntz, a zany what was once a great brand. character and astute business man purchased the tools and dies of the Kurtis MORS FRANCE 1895 – 1956 sports car and set up Muntz Motors to A pioneer of French automobile industry produce cars (the Kurtis chassis was the Emile Mors began with an air cooled flat chassis of choice for the Indianapolis twin car but soon progressed to making V roadster racing cars). The chassis was re- 4’s with flexible engine mounts. By 1908 designed by Frank Kurtis and Sam Hanks Mors now featured water cooling and a and the lengthened chassis fitted with new big four of 12,831 cc was introduced. Cadillac V8’s in the first 28 cars and then Andre Citreon became director also in Lincoln V8’s with auto trans in the this period. In 1912 Mors adopted the following 366 cars. With a claimed top Knight sleeve valve engine along with speed of 200 kph this was a seriously fast some side valve four and six cylinder . Each car was hand built and it models. Post War only sleeve valve models was reported that Muntz lost around were produced (I have been surprised at $400,000 on the project (only in America). how many manufacturers used the Knight sleeve valve engines in the past. I have only seen one in South Australia

Austin 7 Journals Page 39 July 2010

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Austin 7 Journals Page 40 July 2010