MRADMC

Jim Stewart’s Mercury 1949

ISSUE: V35-03— January 2018

THE VOICE OF THE MACEDON RANGES & DISTRICT MOTOR CLUB A0003800S

MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Committee Reports 4 Prez Secretary Treasurer I had no Membership 9 clue I Merchandise 11 could do Library this. Midweek 12 Dates to remember 13 OMG Beechworth 14 One What's happening 15 Christmas Cars & coffee 16 Rileys up the Birdsville Pt 1 21 Holiday, About computers 25 and I’ve Remember me 26 become a Make me laugh 28 kitchen Buy & Sell 30 goddess Notes 31 The End

2 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club Inc. www.mradmc.com.au Clubrooms 10 Webb Crescent New Gisborne Correspondence PO Box 84 Gisborne Ph.: 03 5420 7683

President – Alan Martin e: [email protected] Phone: 0402 708 408

Vice President—Bob Walters e: [email protected] Phone: 0407 546 000

Secretary –Hanging Rock e: [email protected] Graham Williams Phone: 0419 393 023

Treasurer – Adam Furniss e: [email protected] Phone: 0404 034 841

Membership Officer /Members Rep e: [email protected] Michael Camilleri Phone: 0432 718 250

Head Scrutineer Officer– Editor– Deb Williams Brian Jayasingha Mob: 0404 020 525

Sales Officers– Lena Bragato Welfare / Grievance Officer– John Parnis Phone: 0432 583 098 Phone: 0425 802 593 e: [email protected] [email protected] Catering Officer– Property Officer– Boyd Unwin 0403 371 449 Clara Tine

Licensee/Librarian Webpage Administrator – Andrew Parnis Alec Mead

AOMC Delegates – Mid-Week Run Committee – Pam, Shirley, Vivian, Elizabeth, Barbara, Diane Robert Green Phone: 0408 532 603 Phone: 0427 804 803 (Pam) Don MacGregor [email protected]

Club Objective: To encourage the restoration, preservation and operation of motorised vehicles. Meetings: First Wednesday of every month (except Jan) at 8:00 pm. Disclaimer: The opinions and ideas expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the club or the committee. No responsibility can be taken for accuracy of submissions.

3 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 ww.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

President’s report

Welcome to 2018. I hope everyone has had a restful break and is all geared up for the 31st Picnic at Hanging Rock this weekend. To those rostered to work thank you for your ongoing support and to all club members I hope it is a day out we can all enjoy.

As you will be aware Council commissioned A DRAFT Environmental Manage- ment Plan for the local area last year and has released it for community con- sultation.

Over the break the Executive has been hard at work reviewing the draft plans specifically around the Steam Park's future development and maintenance and considering how it may impact the club's ongoing use of its facilities.

The plan – copies of which are in the clubrooms - cover 3 areas with the Steam Park being the only one that impacts the Club. The club Executive met for several hours with representatives of Council and the Gisborne Vintage Machine Society onsite in January to seek clarification of the status of the plan and the placement of proposed capital works such as toilets, gates and playgrounds as they may impact our use of the Steam Park. The Execu- tive also was keen to understand the plans for the compound and our clubroom leases and was reassured that these would remain as leases rather than be converted to licenses.

4 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Council is inviting feedback by Friday 16th February (week after Hanging Rock) and the club will provide a formal and written response. Council has also re- leased an online survey and I encourage you all to respond to ensure that our collective feedback is recorded.

The survey includes questions about your personal use of the spaces as well as questions regarding the Environmental Plan that covers the Steam Park

As a way of background the Council manages the lease of the Crown Land (Steam Park and surrounds) for the State Government.

The club has a lease over its current clubrooms (expiring next year) and is cur- rently working to renew this with Council for a further 9 years. Council has confirmed they see no issue with our renewal as the club has fulfilled its lease obligations and is viewed as a well managed and good community group.

The Compound area and Steam Park are leased to the Gisborne Vintage Ma- chinery Society and their lease extends for a further 9 years. For some reason their current 21 year lease is not aligned with the MRADMC one.

At the club meeting we will provide members with some information to sup- port the question by question completion of the online survey. This is a key opportunity to inform Council of our club’s plans to stay in the park area and I encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Gisborne-Racecourse-Marshland

Keep on motoring

Alan Martin President – for the Executive

5 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

MACEDON RANGES AND DISTRICT MOTOR CLUB MINUTES OF GENERAL MEETING 6st December 2017

Secretary Graham Williams called the meeting to order at 7:10pm Members were reminded to scan in near the Committee Room. Members reminded that when buying raffle tickets they would be issued with a ticket for their first drink from the bar for free and that after that members were welcome to pur- chase further drinks. Apologies: Adam Furniss, Joan Miles, Lina & Fred Bragato New Members/Visitors: Nil Minutes of November General Meeting: Chairman asked if everyone had read the minutes of the last General Meeting. Moved by Brendan Martin Seconded by Ian Buckingham “ that they be accepted” PASSED Business Arising: Thank you to Boyd for provisioning the Wheel Chair as requested by members Thank you to Adam for organising the Christmas party which was a great success President’s Report: Alan’s report was read to the wishing all members a safe Christmas break and thanking everyone for their support this year and in the last few days in particular

6 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Vice President’s Report: Nil Secretary’s Report: Correspondence Newsletters & Magazines: Passed to Librarian Membership Officer’s Report: Michael reported 1 new member since last meeting and currently 292 memberships were current . Michael wished all members a safe and happy Christmas break Treasurer’s Report: Adam has advised that the clubs finances continue to look healthy

Moved Adam Furniss Seconded Rob Bryant “that the bills be paid” PASSED Sales Officer’s Report: Nil . Editor’s Report: Deb reminded members to submit photos and stories of events they had been on – or things they would like the club to make a run to. Librarian’s Report: Nil

7 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Mid-Week Run Co-Ordinators Report: - Pam provided a quick update on the November run and reminded members there WAS NOT a December run due to the Christmas period. The next run is 24th Jan to Tylden and Kyneton– there has been a core of around 50 members attending the mid- week runs in 2017 AOMC Delegate’s Report: - Nil Welfare Officer’s Report: Nil to report Web Master’s Report: Nil to Report Hanging Rock Coordinator: Reminder that the refresher training course for Traffic controllers is on the 14th De- cember at 6pm. For any further details please catch Rob Bryant after the meeting. Kate was still looking for some 25 roster places to be filled – please contact her directly [email protected] Property Officer’s Report: Nil to report Technical Officer’s Report: Nil to report Catering Officer’s Report: Nil to report Bar & Licencing Officer’s Report: Keen to hear from members prepared to undertake an RSA course to allow them to as- sist with Bar activities for meetings and events. Please see Alec Cars and Parts for Sale or Wanted A range of items were raised by members Members were reminded to complete the advertising pro-forma and forward to the Editor

8 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

General Business: Ian Buckingham reminded members of the Grand Prix event and Club display for next year Deb indicated that a pictorial Year that Was will be sent out – asked members for any photos to include. Thanks from members involved in the Romsey Swap Meet – it had been one of the best Cars and Coffee – Calder BP Sunday 10th December Reminder of Traffic Controller Course 14th December There was no guest speaker for the evening 9 raffle prizes were drawn and collected by members There being no further business, the Chairman declared the meeting closed at 7:40 pm and asked members to pack away the chairs and then enjoy the Christmas BBQ – please keep the rooms tidy. Thanks to the catering team in the Kitchen, Barman and the bbq chefs Graham Williams Secretary. Next General Meeting is Wednesday February 7th at the Clubrooms at 8pm

Congratulations on your clubs successful entry into the Automotive Avenue Car Dis- play at the Formula1# 2018 Rolex Grand Prix

9 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club Welcome to our newest members Suzanne & Dean Rollinson Sean Portelli Michael Candiloro Chris and Melissa Kyriazis Current Membership Status = 299 members New Membership Inquiries for November = 7

Gisborne Marshlands & Steam Park Review The executive committee met with representatives of Council and the Gisborne Vintage Machin- ery Society last month to go over the DRAFT Plan and to seek clarification of a number of the rec- ommendations. The council re-affirmed the DRAFT nature of the plan and indicated that while a number of capital improvements such as playgrounds, toilets etc were marked on the plan - the actual placement was open to negotiation with MRADMC and GVMS when the final plan and specifications were drawn up. From the club's perspective the key items that impact us are a) retain and renew the lease on our clubrooms, b) maintenance of the secure nature of the compound area with controlled ac- cess, c) the sealing of Webb Crescent A number of the report's other recommendations relate to the staged development and ongoing maintenance of the Steam Park area which is currently leased to the GVMS and therefore do not directly impact our club's current activities. The underlying plan by Council is to see the Steam Park opened up for more community access as per other parks in the Shire. At the club meeting we will have more detailed information for members and details about re- sponding to the survey which closes in a week's time. Graham Williams

10 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

New 2018 Hanging Rock Badges for Sale $16.00 each

2016 and 2017 HR T-Shirts 3 for $25

Old stock of HR Badges 2013 2014 2015 $ 5.00 each or 3 for $10.00

2016 & 2017 HR Badges $10.00 each OR 2 for $15.00

Club Polo Top navy and red Special $ 27.00

Club caps 2 for $25

Club Merchandise Ladies and Mens Merchandise

Club sticker $2.50 Club beanie [navy & black] $15.00

Club lapel badge $4.50 Club cap [navy,red & black] $15.00

Club hand book $5.00 Club polo top [red & navy] $30.00

Victorian club permit book $5.00 Club polo top long sleeve [navy] $32.00

Club key ring [leather,silver & gold] $7.50 Club vest [navy & red] $30.00

30Th anniversary photo $10.00 Club trinity top w/zip [navy] $45.00

Club cloth badge $15.00 Club hoodie w/cheater top [navy] $45.00

Club grille badge $25.00 Club hoodie jacket [navy] $45.00

Club 30th anniversary badge $25.00 Club polar fleece jacket [navy] $45.00

Club tour badge 2011 $20.00 Club ladies wool lined jacket $65.00

Club tour badge 2012 $25.00 Club bomber jacket [navy] $95.00

Club tour badge 2013 $25.00 Club ¾ bluey jacket [black] $100.00

11 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

January midweek run Morning Tea at Tylden Junction Cafe Tennis exhibition at the Kyneton Mu- seum Lunch at the Kyneton Streamside park

12 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Jan 14 Cars & Coffee

Feb 11 Hanging Rock Car Show 18 Cars & Coffee March 11 Cars & Coffee 23-23 Grand Prix April 8 Cars & Coffee May 4-5 Beechworth “Drive Back in Time” 13 Cars & Coffee June 10 Cars & Coffee July Annual Winter Celebration 8 Cars & Coffee tbc Chrysler challenge August 12 Cars & Coffee tbc Bowling September 9 Cars & Coffee October 7 Bathurst October 14 Cars & Coffee November 11 Cars & Coffee December Picnic

9 Cars & Coffee

13 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

THE OLD PRIORY GUEST HOUSE -BEECHWORTH The Old Priory welcomes you to a unique experience linked directly to the Gold Era of The North East . Centrally located on 3 acres in historic Beechworth, overlooking the famous Beechworth Gorge. Clean, comfortable shared facilities. Continental breakfast included. Cosy rooms with open fires to relax beside. Stairs to keep you fit. $100 per couple-per room I’ve booked 6 double rooms. Give it some thought. See Deb Williams if you are interested

14 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

FEBRUARY 2018

Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 G.M.

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Committee Meeting 12HR 13 14 15 16 17 18 Car show HR Meeting 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28

DISCLAIMER: The Calendar of Events contains information originating from the Macedon Ranges and District Mo- tor Club and other motoring organizations. While every attempt is made to ensure that all information is accurate at the time of printing, we accept no responsibility for the accuracy of submissions. It is recommended that members contact the event organizers to confirm that dates and times are correct. Event sites that are checked for events www.pinky.com.au www.shownshine.info www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au

15 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

C U there

16 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Craigieburns Car,Truck & Bike Show [VIC] Venue : Craigieburn Central, Craigieburn Road, Craigieburn Event Date : 25-02-2018 Time : 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Display vehicles from 8am. Cars & Truck $20. Bikes $10. DJs & bands. Door prizes and trophies raising funds for the Isabella and Marcus paediatric brainstem tumour fund. Trade stands welcome. For more info call 0408305558 or Email [email protected]

3rd March 2018Saturday GEELONG ALL HOLDEN DAY Geelong Showgrounds 79 Breakwater Rd, Breakwater, VIC 3219 Gate open 7am for entrants $15 to show Public $5

17 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

11th March 2018 VINTAGE DRIVERS CLUB YARRA GLEN SWAP MEET Yarra Glen Racecourse New Vendor enquiries welcomed Outdoor sites $20 Full catering available Classic Car Display Promoted by the Vintage Drivers Club For site and general enquiries Tel 9890 0524 www.vintagedriversclub.com.au/ yarraglen

25th March 2018 MELTON SWAP MEET Tabcorp Park Western Hwy Melton [ Mel 337 J12] This event will cater for all makes and models of vintage, veteran and classic vehi- cles and all type of memorabilia. An area will be set aside for a FREE display of classic vehicles. Selling sites @$25 will be available on the day from 6.30 am no bookings required. Public admission @$5 from 8 am - 1 pm. Organised by former national drag racing identity Grahamn Rose Enq; 04283

8th April 2018 ROTARY CLUB OF SHEPPARTON MOTOR SHOW, MARKET DAY AND SWAP MEET Shepparton show grounds - Benalla Road Gates open 8.00 am Presentations 2.00 pm Show vehicles including driver $5 General public $ 2 per person Children under 12 free Swap meet store holders $ 20 –(6 x 6 meters site) Car & bike parts ( new & used) Food and drinks will be available on site Prizes for best presented vehicles awarded Contact Ange to secure a spot 0408 312 559 e-mail [email protected] 94249

18 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Phone: 0407 460 600, Phone 0427 821 435 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

In time all things become clear

19 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Date: Sunday 18th February 2018 Adults: $8 Time: 8am-3pm Concession and children under 12 years $5 Location: Deakin University Waurn Ponds, Gee- Family (2 adults & up to 3 children ) $25 long Parking: free parking on site

20 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club RILEYS UP THE BIRDSVILLE (This article was written, and photos supplied by our member Geoff Golding who did this trip in 1967) Rileys touring up the Birdsville Track? Madness! Despite this,16 Rileys ranging from a 1925 side-valve Redwing to 1963 Riley Elf and 4/68, have done 1600 miles from Adelaide to Birdsville and back in eight days—without any trouble. The whole idea was formed by Mike Steel, owner of Rover Charters, who is a member of the comparatively new Riley Owners' Club of South Australia. As can be imag- ined, the Picture that sprung to mind was that Rileys would end up being abandoned at regular intervals along the track, but Mike insisted the road was well graded, widened and generally speaking in a good state of repair. The idea was then put to the Riley Car Club in Sydney and the Riley Motor Club in Victoria who (needless to say) were sceptical by closing day, 20 crews had volunteered, but this came down to 17 actually paying their deposits. The start day—a Saturday—was overcast but many members of the Riley Owners' Club saw a convoy of with an average car age of 16 years pull away from Hindmarsh Square at 7.45 am. The route was through Elizabeth, Gawler and on to Clare where the first stop was made — to make sure everyone got out of Adelaide. On to Orroroo where it was proposed to have lunch, after which it was on to Hawker and Beltana where we were to spend the first night. During the morning the NSW entrant pulled cut of the convoy to get some last minute provisions and have a little welding done. The convoy moved north and about 30 miles south of Beltana, Mike Steel's Land Rover — powered by a Riley Pathfinder engine blew the differential. As it was late in the day, nearby ruins became the camp tor the night. As a member from the Victorian Club was suffering from tonsillitis, he had to go on to Leigh Creek to see a doctor, but returned to spend the night at the Copley Hotel. Mean- while, the NSW crew had been told camp would be made at Beltana and had driven there only to find the area deserted, but as it was quite late, they decided to spend the night there. After a very cold, blustery night, Mike Steel set about repairing the Land Rover with a new crown wheel and pinion bought in, Copley. In the meantime, the NSW car had gone on to Copley and found the Victorian fellows who had spent the night there. About an hour later the Land Rover and convoy arrived with repaired rear axle. The road to Orroroo, 169 miles north of Adelaide. was bitumen in good condition through gently undulating country. Orroroo saw the end of the bitumen but the start of a hard-packed clay road for the next 76 miles to Hawker — it was possible to cruise safely on this surface around 50-60 mph. The road from Hawker to Beltana was in pretty poor condition particularly the first 10 miles — the rest having some long sections of severe corrugations. Another 27 miles north put the convoy in Leigh Creek. Since we were a little ahead of schedule, it was decid- ed by most crews to use the time making minor adjustments to their cars, mainly in .tyre pressures and suspensions. The road to Leigh Creek had improved vastly and it was possi-

21 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club ble to cruise around 40 mph. Lyndhurst, 15 miles north of Leigh Creek, was the lunch stop and refuelling point. On the way to Leigh Creek we passed the lode pile from the coal mines and it became evident that the flat country was becoming vividly coloured in red- browns, browns, blues and greys. Lyndhurst is the starting point for the Strzlecki Track to Innamincka. After lunch we went along this road to a rail-siding known locally as Talc Town and saw talc in it At Lyndhurst we gained another starter, a Victorian member who had the misfortune to have his restored 2½ lt Riley “written off” while parked outside his home 10 days before- hand. No trouble: the fellow went out and bought another 2½ saloon in good bodily shape and proceded to transfer all mechanicals from the old car to the new one in 10 days - after which he set out to catch up with the convoy The next stretch of 50 miles from Lyndhurst to Maree passed uneventfully. The road was quite reasonable gravel although there were some odd "bulldust" patches which tended to keep speeds around 40 mph. The "bulldust" patches were easily seen as they were generally white and stood out against the red- brown surface. Maree is the end of the railway line and the official start of the Birdsville 'Track’ and a short stop was used by the crews to buy last minute stores which had to last for the next 300 miles. The South Australian driving the Riley Elf thought the dust to this point was so thick that he kept asking as the convoy was about to pull away, "Has anyone seen my little red car?" Next morning we set off, headed for Clifton Hills Station for . the night. About 12 miles from Maree we passed the ruins of a date plantation. The story is that this was started in the 1870s but at the turn of the century the Commonwealth Gov- ernment developed it as a camel stud; it remained as until the 1920s when the car began to penetrate the outback. The only other plantation of this type is at Alice Springs. Road conditions were good, hard surface although very dusty, but despite this, the convoy was able to speed along at 40-50 mph. On the way to Dulkaninna we passed through the first dingo fence where there was a sign asking you to close the gate. Just to help you remem- ber, there is a fine of $100 for failing to. Just 38 miles north of Dulkaninna is Coopers Creek which is generally dry, but here the convoy stopped for lunch. After lunch, it was on to Mulka Station, 20 miles further north and this was a very important stop as this is the last petrol for 220 miles before reaching Birdsville. The road to this. point was generally good although there were several short rough patches. From Orroroo to Mulka, the road is well- formed gravel regularly graded and for the main 34-40 feet wide. The days of the horrid sandy track are well and truly gone. To this point, we had had only three punctures and no mechanical trouble in any or the 17 Rileys. About halfway to Birdsville we pitched camp for the night. It was in this section of the road that we had the first mechanical trouble with one of the cars. The earth contact on the distributor was at fault. The next day, Tuesday, we hit the road early. At Clifton Hills Homestead there were two alternative routes— the

22 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club "Inside Track" Via Goyder's Lagoon, which incidentally is the recommended route at 97 miles, or the "Outside, Track" which is 30 miles longer and is near impossible in a conven- tional car. The road over this 97 miles varied considerably — from hard clay surface on which 50 mph is quite possible, to a gibber- strewn surface which if driven over quickly would stonebruise the mud- guards, to loose dust 2-3 ins. deep under which was a hard surface. Despite the firm base there was considerable drag on the cars due to the dust and so the fuel consumption figures were distorted. The only car worried by this section was the Riley Elf due to its lack of clearance. Finally the convoy arrived at Birdsville and everyone was looking forward to a good show- er at the hotel. The next morning we were on the move again over the Diamantina River ford (flowing about 6 ins. over the crossing) to see the Burke and Wills tree. Back to Birds- ville to see the world's smallest hydro-electric station which generates the town's electric- ity. The water source is a hot bore which drives a paddle wheel which in turn runs the generator. A certain amount of this water is piped to the residents as the hot water sup- ply. As we 1ooked around we realised that it was once a very thriving town. There were three hotels, a brewery, match-works and a thriving trading centre. Today, only one hotel stands, the general store, hospital, Old people's home and garage. Once a week stores are flown in and the mail is flown out alternatively to Brisbane and Adelaide. The population today is 30 white and 80 natives. After a very short but enjoyable stay, the convoy headed south via Muloorina Station and Lake Eyre. Almost opposite Etadunna Station homestead on the track, there is a 30 ft high iron cross which marks the turn to the Lutheran Mission ruins, nine miles along a twisting although smooth track. The mission was founded by Hermann Voglesang in the 1860s. Next day, it was back to the main track at Etadunna Sta- tion and south to Clayton Crossing, where we turned west towards Muloorina Station homestead 25 miles away along a rough sandy track. It was along this track we found our first really sandy sections which bothered nobody except the Riley Elf. Muloorina (which means plenty of tucker) covers 12,000 square miles and runs up to 1700 sheep and 400 head of cattle. So, eight days after starting, 17 Rileys returned to Adelaide none the worse for the 1600 miles to Birdsville and return, me total was eight punctures and one blow- out, out of a possible 85 wheels. Three cars ran radial ply tyres, but had no trouble. The most we paid for petrol was 50 cents a gallon at Mulka Station and beer 77 cents a bottle at Birdsville. There is no reason why the family car could not make this trip, provided it was in good repair and the usual spares, such as a radiator hose, points, fan belt and the like were taken and the car was respected over some of the rougher sections. You also need plenty of food and at least four gallons of water. None of the cars in the convoy was specially prepared in any way. The average cost was about $100 a head. Maybe this trip can best be summed up by the Riley Company's original slogan: "As old as the industry, as

23 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club and the mail is flown out alternatively to Brisbane and Adelaide. The population today is 30 white and 80 natives. After a very short but enjoyable stay, the convoy headed south via Muloorina Station and Lake Eyre. Almost opposite Etadunna Station homestead on the track, there is a 30 ft high iron cross which marks the turn to the Lutheran Mission ruins, nine miles along a twisting although smooth track. The mis- sion was founded by Hermann Voglesang in the 1860s.

Next day, it was back to the main track at Etadunna Station and south to Clayton Crossing, where we turned west towards Muloorina Station homestead 25 miles away along a rough sandy track. It was along this track we found our first really sandy sections which bothered nobody except the Riley Elf. Muloorina (which means plenty of tucker) covers 12,000 square miles and runs up to 1700 sheep and 400 head of cattle. So, eight days after starting, 17 Rileys returned to Adelaide none the worse for the 1600 miles to Birdsville and return, me total was eight punctures and one blow-out, out of a possible 85 wheels. Three cars ran radial ply tyres, but had no trouble. The most we paid for petrol was 50 cents a gallon at Mulka Station and beer 77 cents a bottle at Birdsville. There is no reason why the family car could not make this trip, provided it was in good repair and the usual spares, such as a radiator hose, points, fan belt and the like were taken and the car was respected over some of the rougher sections. You also need plenty of food and at least four gallons of water. None of the cars in the convoy was specially prepared in any way. The average cost was about $100 a head. Maybe this trip can best be summed up by the Riley Company's original slogan: "As old as the industry, as modern as the hour . .

The youngest and oldest on the trip

This article was in Riley New Z thank you John VG more next month

24 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

What gender is “computer”? A teacher was asked this. Instead of giving the answer, the teacher divided the class into two groups, male and female, and asked them to decide for themselves whether “computer” should be masculine or a feminine noun. Each group was asked to give four reasons for its recommendation.

The men’s group decided that “computer” should be of the feminine gender, because; 1. No one but their creator understands their internal logic’ 2. The native language they use to communicate with each other is incomprehensible to everyone else’ 3 Even the smallest mistakes are stored in the long term memory for possible later re- trieval; and 4 As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending half your pay cheque to buy accessories for it.

The women’s group, however, concluded that computers should be masculine, because: 1 In order to do anything with them, you have to turn them on; 2 They have a lot of data but still can’t think for themselves; 3 They are supposed to help you solve problems, but half the time they ARE the problem; and 4 As soon as you commit to one, you realise that if you had waited a little longer, you could have got a better model.

Computers were declared male

There may or may not have been a high Percentage of females in the group

25 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Name: Jim Stewart

How long a member of this club: 20 years

What keeps you a member: Great people, great cars, and like interest Currant car: 1949 Mercury Town Sedan

Jim bought the Mercury in 1991, brought it home on a trailer. Over the next 7 years with the help on friends, and money the Mercury was rebuilt, to what we see today.

Jim also owned a Jaguar, but sold it because his real love was the Mercury, and he felt he didn't have the energy, or the want to love two cars, and the Mercury was his first love. Sorry Loraine.

First car ever driven: 1950 Vauxhall Velox (Dad’s car)

First car owned : 1948 Morris 10. 90 pound sold it 18 months later for 90 pound

Best car ever driven: 1977 Jaguar

Best car owned: 735 BMW

Dream car: Tesla all electric

Hobbies & Interests

Macedon Ranges & district Motor Club

Early Ford Car Club…..26 Years

VCCC Vintage & Classic Car Club Ballarat

26 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

27 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Thank goodness they invented this be- cause I was Really piling on the weight with that full fat water

LIGHTEN UP…. Students in an advanced Biology class were taking their mid- term exam. The last question was, 'Name seven advantages of Mother's Milk.' The question was worth 70 points or none at all. One student was hard put to think of seven advantages. He wrote: 1) It is perfect formula for the child. 2) It provides immunity against several diseases. 3) It is always the right tempera- ture. 4) It is inexpensive. 5) It bonds the child to mother and vice versa. 6) It is always available as needed. And then the student was stuck. Finally, in despera- tion, just before the bell rang indicating the end of the test he wrote: 7) It comes in two attractive containers and it's high enough off the ground where the cat can't get it. He got an A.

28 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

Interested?

29 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

For sale

Description Contact

Humber Super Snipe 1966 Auto. Black, some damage on right hand side panels, other- wise reasonable condition, runs well. VIN No: B084700711, Reg 1CG7JD No RWC. Caroline North- wood 61785km $2,200 neg. ** 0417329112

4 Rims 4 Tyres Goodyear 215/60 R 16 C (not fitted to rims) suitable for trailer or burn- Jim 9744 7152 outs, Recently removed from a2004 BA Falcon. Also there are wheel trims to suit the rims included. Make an offer pick up Sunbury. ***

EL Ford Falcon 4 door sedan. Motor good, 5 speed manual . New clutch pressure plate Stan Mason No reg. or RWC $500 *** 0412 130 399

1987 C4 Chevrolet Corvette, yellow convertible, good condition. Casey Approx. 84,000 km’s Manual. Full service recently. Reg till Aug 2018 0414 878 247 VIN 1G1YY3182H5117944, *

All advertised Buy and Sell items run for a period of three magazine issues. The * symbol indicates the number of magazine issues ads have featured in. Please notify the editor if you have found or sold your advertised item so it can be deleted from future issues.

30 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

What will I do this month?

31 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au MOTOR MOUTH The voice of the Macedon Ranges & District Motor Club

32 10 Webb Crescent, New Gisborne VIC 3438 Po Box 84, Gisborne VIC 3437 www.mradmc.com.au