Cross+Serpent Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club of Australia (Victoria Division) Inc.
MaMay 20201818
VoVolulumeme 46 Numumbbeer 3
Cross + Serpent is the official publication of the Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Australia (Victoria Division) Inc. Cross+Serpent ABN 85 862 959 314. Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club of Australia (Victoria Division) Inc. Publication Number 100000295.
Postal address PO Box 216, Camberwell Vic 3124 www.alfaclubvic.org.au
https://www.facebook.com/arocavic 10 Members and their Machines 36 Phillip Island Historics
Contributions to Cross & Serpent are always welcome. Please contact the editor at [email protected] to discuss your ideas. If you are emailing photographs, or other images, please supply them in JPEG format at 300dpi 14 38 or higher resolution. Max’s Day Out Melbourne F1 Grand Prix
All photographs/images submitted for publication must include detailed captions, i.e. names of people, event, location and any other relevant identifying information. It is presumed that the supplier of all photographs/ images owns or has approval from the owner of said copyright to reproduce the photographs/images. 16 Italian Icons in Lygon Street 40 Awards Night
AROCA (Vic) is affiliated with CAMS Ltd (Confederation of Australian Motorsport) and is a member of the MSCA (Marque Sports Car Association). The Views expressed in this magazine represent those of the individual contributor/s and are not necessarily those of or shared by the Club, the 22 42 Competition Sandown Sprints Committee, the Members or the Reflections on the 2600 Magazine.
Club Nights are held at Bell’s Hotel, ADVERTISERS Cnr Moray and Coventry Streets South IFC Nunawading Alfa Melbourne on the second Wednesday each month (except January), 7 Stuckey Tyre Service commencing at 8pm. Many members 14 Kingston Park arrive early to enjoy a meal and a chat with fellow members. Visitors are 15 Merchandise Online always welcome. 19 Beck - Pro Build 26 Auto Italia Canberra 21 Il Bolide Rosso 29 Maranello Pur-Sang Motors
Front Cover Photo: 29 Italian Automotive Spares Cover Photo: For over 30 years Auto 31 Alfa Donnini Repairs Italia in Canberra has been a very popular event for fans of the Italian 35 Lumley Special Vehicles marques and this year Hugh Harrison 41 Mauceri Motors decided to attend the event, making the journey to the national capital and 44 Shannons Insurance including his 1970 1600 Junior Zagato 32 A Sunday Adventure 46 Tiamo Coffee Restaurant in the display at the event’s new IBC Zagame Autobody venue, the Pialligo Estate Winery. 34 An Alfa Drive OBC Zagame Automotive
1 Club Contacts
Committee President Secretary Treasurer Mandy Thompson, 0412 806 240 Laura Tangey, 0400 561 730 Alan Hopla, 0418 388 019 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
Vice President Competition Secretary Membership Secretary Sam Tartaglia, 0459 542 070 Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 Oscar Amante, 0415 266 903 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
Register Co-ordinator Public Relations Social Secretary John Hanslow, 0409 961 719 Position Vacant Ari Semertzidis, 0407 714 418 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
Editor Barry Edmunds, 0405 383 431 E: [email protected]
Co-opted Members National Co-ordinator MSCA Delegate Driver Training Co-ordinator Victor Lee, 0419 828 828 Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Webmaster Position Vacant Club Permit Scheme Advertising Co-ordinator Ivan Ciardullo, 0412 386 195 Sam Tartaglia, 0459 542 070 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Goldfields Chapter Leon Cottle, 0407 680 384 E: [email protected]
Register Captains Vintage & Classic Series 105 Series All RL, 6C, 750, 2600, 101 All Giulia Coupes, Sedans & Spiders Ron Loccisano, 0418 565 700 Gary Pearce, 0417 365 929 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
116 & 160 Series 900 Series Alfetta, Giulietta, 75, 90, SZ, RZ, 164 Alfasud, Sprint & 33 Claude Botti, 0418 540 016 Colin Thomas, 0407 090 826 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
932 Series 939 Series 147, 156, GTV, Spider & GT 159, Brera & Brera Spider David Hewison, 0425 432 037 Jessey Vidanovski, 0468 306 006 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
Current Models Alfa GT Owners Group (AGOG) Giulietta, Mito & 4C Leon Cottle, 0407 680 384 Max Maltese - 0411 172 834 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Life MemberDavid Wright& Club Patron 156 GTA & 147 GTA Series David Hewison, 0425 432 037 E: [email protected]
Life Members John Edwards (Dec) 1979 Brian Horman (Dec) 1991 Wendy Harrison 2005 Neil Choi 2011 Anne Beck 1983 Tom Woolnough (Dec) 1988 Ross Flood 2007 Anthony Sharp 2012 Don Dickson 1983 Anne Woolnough (Dec) 1988 Vin Sharp 2007 Colin Thomas 2014 Norm Craven-Kellyy (Dec) 1990 Ray Sharp (Dec) 1991 Marie Sharp 2007 Alister Grigg 2014 Don Matthews 1990 Colin Beck (Dec) 1994 Andrew Carra 2011 Barry Edmunds 2016 David Wright 1990 David Floyd 1998 Stuart Thomson 2011 Ernie Stock (Dec) 1990 Victor Lee 2005 Bruno Colautti 2011 Joan Stock 1990 Hugh Harrison 2005 Mary Colautti 2011
2 Club Calendar at a glance
May 2018 July 2018
MAY Club Night @ Bells Hotel JUL Cuore Sportivo Tour - Based in Nagambie Cnr Moray & Coventry Streets, South Melbourne Contact: Ari Semertzidis, 0407 714 418 9 7-8
MAY Workshop Visit - Mauceri Motors JUL Club Night @ Bells Hotel 9 Meriton Place, Clayton Cnr Moray & Coventry Streets, South Melbourne 11 Contact: Claude Botti, 0418 540 016 13 [email protected] JUL AROCA Vic 2018 Sprint Series Rd 7, Broadford MAY Café Society Gathering (Breakfast) - Contact: Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 Tiamo Coffee Restaurant, Carlton 22 [email protected] 13 Contact: Ron Loccisano, 0418 565 700 [email protected] MAY AROCA Vic 2018 Sprint Series Rd 4, Sandown August 2018 Contact: Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 19 [email protected] AUG Club Night @ Bells Hotel Cnr Moray & Coventry Streets, South Melbourne MAY Sunday Drive - East of Melbourne Adventure 8 Contact: Gary Pearce, 0417 365 929 27 [email protected] AUG Deadline for September Cross & Serpent Magazine Contact the Editor, 0405 383 431 10 [email protected] June 2018
JUN AROCA Vic 2018 Sprint Series Rd 5, Winton September 2018 Contact: Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 9 [email protected] SEP AROCA Vic 2018 Sprint Series Rd 8, Sandown Contact: Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 JUN Club Night @ Bells Hotel 1 [email protected] Cnr Moray & Coventry Streets, South Melbourne 13 SEP Club Night @ Bells Hotel Cnr Moray & Coventry Streets, South Melbourne JUN Deadline for July Cross & Serpent 12 Contact the Editor, 0405 383 431 15 [email protected]
JUN Visit to Point Cook Air Museum Contact: Barry Edmunds, 0405 383 431 17 [email protected]
JUN AROCA Vic 2018 Sprint Series Rd 6, Phillip Island Contact: Neil Choi, 0433 116 647 30 [email protected]
Note: Event dates and details are correct at the time of publication, but are subject to change at short notice. Please check the Club’s website for any updates or late changes to events. Postal Addresses To avoid any confusion or delay in attending to correspondence to the Club, please ensure that all correspondence is addressed to the appropriate club officers at the Post Office Boxes listed below.
General Enquiries Membership Enquiries & Renewals CPS Applications & Renewals The Secretary, AROCA Vic Membership Secretary, AROCA Vic CPS Officer, AROCA Vic PO Box 216 PO Box 216 PO Box 7076 Camberwell Vic 3124 Camberwell Vic 3124 Banyule VIC 3084
3 Benvenuti a tutti he full-on start to 2018 has continued Melbourne just before the Grand Prix. New Members with so much club activity that it is Thard to keep up. Here we are already Formula 1 racing legend Sir Jackie Louis Alexandre into autumn, which is always a great time Stewart created Race Against Dementia Marrier d’Unienville 147 GTA to be in Melbourne, and before we know to raise money to fund breakthrough and Yang Zhao Honda Civic it winter will be upon us and with it the innovative research into dementia which usual perils that come with winter driving, his wife of 55 years, Lady Helen, now Bruno Monti Stelvio assuming of course that we do get some suffers from. During his racing career Heidi Monti rain. Lady Helen, the love of Sir Jackie’s life, John Leadston Spider timed his laps on the race track to the William Tauschke Spider TS In March we had the Alfa Romeo Club millisecond. This is the woman with a Bruce Fowler 159 Display at the Phillip Island Classic race razor-sharp mind who is now confronted meeting. A big thank you to Paul O’Connor by a disorder that currently has no known Clive Ablitt Datsun P510 for organising this display and the cure. Sir Jackie has taken up the fight and Sam Gallo Giulia Sprint GT enthusiasts who participated in the display. Race Against Dementia has become his Robert Barr 4C Coupe race. It was very pleasing to hear that the Norman Draper Brera The Sunday drive to Noojee in Gippsland event at Lorbek’s raised almost $500,000 John Verga GT JTS was well supported with an excellent to support this wonderful cause. turnout of just over 30 members and Mark Giuliano 156 friends gathering at the Blue Turtle café Also in attendance at the event were two Frank Dellamonica Alfetta GTV in Lilydale and enjoying a coffee before the of Australia’s foremost Red Bull Formula 1 Jennifer Porter convoy of around 20 cars headed off. drivers, Mark Weber and Daniel Ricciardo. Michael Santin Giulietta It was fantastic listening to Sir Jackie Leighton Gwynn Giulietta Ari had done well to come up with an interview both about their motor racing interesting tour and everything was going exploits and achievements. Ugur Ucaner Alfetta GTV well with most arriving at the Gladysdale Andrew Abercrombie Alfa Romeo Bakery on time, or close to it. After a Mark Gills Giulia break in the journey and some welcome Alex Meden GT refreshments we set off once more and John Burkhart 156 TS from this point the trip to Noojee became something of an adventure. Claude Dinelli 159 Leanne Dinelli 159 Not far from the coffee break stop the Stuart Charleston GTV 2000 convoy came to a stop, to be greeted by Tim Williams Porsche GT3 two local members of the constabulary Dean Swindells Alfetta who said we couldn’t continue on this Greg Wickes Spider particular road because of a fire in the area. After a few minutes it was suggested John Sortino 159 JTD that we could use the nearby dirt road as an alternative to going back the way we came. “It is only a couple of kilometres” And then there was the Australian F1 welcome to attend and join in. More of said one officer so off we went with most Grand Prix at Albert Park. What can one these gatherings at Tiamo’s are planned feeling sympathetic to the 4C owners. say about Melbourne’s weather? High during the year ahead. Everyone spread out and travelled slowly 20’s for Thursday and Friday practice, rain to avoid throwing up stones etc on the during qualifying on the Saturday but on At the club sprint event at Sandown on May following cars. Sunday the sun gods were shining down 19 (Round 4 of the 2018 series) we will be for this first F1 race of the year. Although hosting another Show ‘n Shine event and, That couple of kilometres turned into 8 Ferrari took 1st and 3rd place, it was very providing there is enough time in the day’s before we hit the bitumen once more. pleasing to see the Alfa Romeo Sauber schedule, we will also try and squeeze team finish 13th in their debut outing. in some parade laps. Check the club’s Glad we weren’t having a show ‘n shine as website for further details about this and part of the day out. I doubt if we would have As I was away at the time and enjoying other club events. had a winner. a break the April club night and the presentation of perpetual and competition Unfortunately the cancellation of Alfesta I felt particularly sorry for the 4C owners trophies was looked after very capably by disrupted plans by Colin and I and quite a who came along on the drive and I’ve been VP Sam Tartaglia. Congratulations to all few others to attend this national gathering told that most participants spent a little the winners and I look forward to catching but as an alternative Colin and I were able more than usual time cleaning their cars up with you in the future, be it at social or to enjoy a break interstate. By the time after the club day out. One of the perils of competition events. you are reading his I will be back in the a club outing. presidential chair once again and press on We have some excellent club events with the year ahead. That wasn’t the only interruption to the coming up over the coming weeks/months journey as we had another detour at a so please avail yourself of the opportunity Thanks to VP Sam Tartaglia who held the railway crossing where the boom barriers to participate and mix with fellow club reins while I was away and a very warm were stuck down. All part of the adventure members. welcome to the new members who have on a club outing. Eventually we all made become part of the AROCA Vic family. it to the Noojee Pub where an excellent On May 13, the Sunday following the May lunch and a few refreshing drinks were club night and AGM, there will be a Café Fino Alla Prossima Volta enjoyed. Thank you Ari for organising the Society Gathering (Breakfast) at Tiamo run and a good day out. Coffee Restaurant in Carlton (one of Mandy Thompson the club’s major sponsors) so I will look I had the privilege of attending the “Race forward to seeing a good turnout and against Dementia” fundraising event enjoying an early Sunday breakfast with hosted by Lorbek Luxury cars in Port you. All members and visitors are most 4 Editorial
sad note to start off my contribution me a little further afield than normal with to this issue of C&S, the passing of two trips interstate, both to New South AAnne Woolnough, a long time and Wales, one to the Wakefield Park circuit very active club member alongside her near Goulburn and the other to Auto husband Tom until their retirement and Italia in Canberra. eventual move north to Hervey Bay where they both enjoyed life in retirement. Wakefield Park is one of the few Many of the club’s older and or long Australian race circuits that I had never time members will remember Anne, and been to previously so I was pleased to join Tom, who were wonderful friends to so Claude Botti and a few friends for the few from almost any vantage point around many. Many a club member back then days. This was also Claude’s first visit to the track. relied on Tom Woolnough for tyres and Wakefield Park too so he was keen to try advice and benefitted from Tom’s wealth the Alfetta out on a new circuit. Off-track facilities are also very good with of knowledge about them. Any visit to plenty of garage space for competitors. Woolnough Tyres was always a pleasant The circuit also incorporates a hill climb experience as they were always so which starts just after the tight right helpful.to many club members. On behalf hander at the end of the front straight of the Club, sincere condolences to the and finishes at the high point of the Woolnough family. circuit. According to Claude and his son Michael, who also managed a few laps In the previous issue of C&S I wrote a on the day, it is a terrific race circuit and piece about algorithms and driver-less they have every intention of going back cars which attracted a bit if a reaction, for a competition event in the near future. even prompting one reader to hit the keyboard, which I have been included in Back home in more familiar surroundings this issue. I guess the issue of driverless Organised by the racing group out of it was soon back to work, sorting out cars and all that goes with them will be in Sydney there was over 70 entrants, mostly the content for this issue which took on the public eye for a while longer. Alfas plus a few others. It turned out to be a different complexion with a couple of a rather hot day, temperature wise, which promised articles not being ready in time One ‘news’ item that caught my attention made life a tad uncomfortable after only so alternative content had to be found, a couple of weeks back was a suggestion a few laps. Despite the high temperature and quickly. from some well-meaning body that cars most managed to get in a decent amount older than 15 years should be taken off of track time with only a couple of minor In closing I’d like to pass on a comment Australia’s roads because these ‘old’ interruptions on the day. that I read somewhere and which I think cars were unsafe and unroadworthy, etc, is one well worth passing on. Life may etc. To ease everyone’s mind, that report The circuit itself, with a lap distance of be short, but remember, it is the longest did conclude that classic cars are not a 2.2 kms, a front straight of about 900 thing you will ever be involved in. problem as they are more likely to be metres and some tight and off-camber properly maintained. corners through the in-field, could easily How true and worth remembering. be described as an interesting race track. Now I will readily concede that today’s There is a significant height difference Carp Diem cars, with all the current safety features between the front straight and the and with more on the way, are safer than high point of the circuit which provides Barry older cars but I’d also suggest that there excellent viewing of the entire circuit are likely to be as many and perhaps even more unsafe and unroadworthy drivers on our roads as there are cars. As I have said previously, a badly driven motor vehicle still has the potential to kill, injure and maim, regardless of the amount of safety features and equipment fitted to it. I’m all in favour of making motor vehicles and roads safe but I still do believe that a good deal more attention should be directed at making drivers as safe and roadworthy as the safe vehicles on the roads.
The past few weeks have been the usually very busy time with all manner of club events and activities keeping yours truly and, very importantly, the members occupied, entertained or busy (cross out which doesn’t apply in your own situation). As a result it has been a bit of a battle keeping up with everything and trying to squeeze as much as possible in between the covers of this magazine. Over recent weeks my travels have taken 5 Bits & Pieces
Getting to know the locals I was fortunate to have been in regular What Next? It is often said that travel broadens the phone contact with both Anne and Tom After the recent announcement from mind and when one travels it is also since they moved to Queensland in the Ford that the Mustang would be replacing recommended that one should get to late 1990’s. It was so nice to see Anne the Falcon on the Supercars’ grid in 2019, know the locals when doing so. about 18 months ago, not long before came the inevitable question ‘What other Tom’s passing. She was a little weak cars should join the Ford Mustang on the Jo Wilcox who often accompanies club but in good spirits. Despite her health Supercars’ grid and sort of answered member John Keating on club outings, deteriorating in recent months she got their own question by suggesting that ventured a little further afield than usual to her 91st birthday in January of this local tin-top racing would be more for a holiday a couple of months back, year which was a great effort on her interesting if five cars were added. heading to South Africa for an extended part. Anne is survived by son Peter and holiday. daughter Anitra. The five suggested were Nissan’s GT-R R35, Kia’s Stinger, Mazda RX, Chev It was a pleasure to know and be a friend Camaro and Alfa’s Giulia, obviously the to you Anne. QV model.
David Floyd In supporting the return of Nissan’s Godzilla, people are forgetting what A New Addition to the Family happened when Godzilla was around last Club member Trent Harrison and his wife time; it got banned and who can ever Kellie welcomed a daughter, Jordan, on forget the scenes at Bathurst after Jim the afternoon of April 1. Jordan is Hugh Richards and co-driver Mark Skaife won and Wendy Harrison’s first grandchild the race in a GTR. The GT-R is eligible but and a niece to Trent’s sister Lacey. Nissan is yet to commit beyond this year.
With its twin turbo V6 and rear wheel drive, the Kia Stinger, which has been getting some good reviews of late, could well be suited to Supercars, providing the company put together a serious campaign and backed it with enough Jo assures us that she had a great time, resources. Cynics may scoff at the thoroughly enjoying the experience, as thought of a Korean car in Supercars but evidenced by this photograph of her with they may end up eating their words. one of the ‘locals’, although we’re not really sure that getting as close as this Ever since the era of the pony/muscle to this particular ‘local’ is what the travel began a few decades ago the Chev brochures really mean when they say Camaro has the mortal enemy of the Ford ‘Get to know the locals’. Mustang and would appear, on paper at least, to be the logical choice for a race team like Walkinshaw Andretti with their links to some excellent resources in Vale America. Anne Woolnough - 17/1/1927 - 14/4/2018 It is sad to report the passing of Anne Of course Chrysler/Dodge could toss a Woolnough, much loved and very cat amongst the pigeons by adding the supportive wife of Tom Woolnough Challenger to the local tin-top racing (Dec’d). Anne was a real stalwart of the scene. club especially in the 1980’s and 1990’s. I remember seeing Anne often competing And what about Alfa Romeo? A bit of alongside Tom in her lovely green wishful thinking perhaps but I’m sure that 105 Coupe and she really enjoyed the with Alfa’s long history and involvement camaraderie of members such as Barry in motor sport at all levels many Alfisti Edmunds, Anne and Colin Beck, Fred would love to see it happen. Images by SS and Joan Allen, Frank and Joan Porter to Media of a Giulia in race trim have been name just a few. around for a while now and it certainly looks the goods. Anne was always friendly to the then younger club members too such as the Sharp family, Alister Grigg, Victor Lee, Colin Thomas, Ross Flood, Bruce Rodgers, David Crump, the Floyd boys and so many others. We should also acknowledge her long friendship with Graeme Ricardo, fellow club members and manager of Woolnough Tyre Service in Caulfield for many years in the 1980’s.
6 Alfa Romeo Maserati Prete Club Permit Scheme After 20 years in the same collection New Applications the Alfa Romeo Maserati ‘Prete’ is listed for auction at the Mille Miglia 1. Applicants must be a current Club Museum on May 14 with an estimated member and able to prove ownership of the vehicle. sale price of 1.2 to 1.7 million euros. 2. Obtain a Roadworthy Certificate from Built in Rome after WWII by Placido an authorised tester. Prete who wanted to create a “sports” 3. Complete the Club Permit Application car to be competitive in class in events Form and Vehicle Eligibility Form such as the Targa Florio and the Mille Francesco Santovetti bought the car (forms can be downloaded from the Miglia, the handcrafted Alfa Romeo from Prete and continued to share VicRoads website). Maserati Prete features a tubular frame the steering wheel with Rocco, who 4. Select the 45 or 90 day option. constructed from Maserati parts and a won the 1952 Coppa dei due Laghi and 5. Provide a stamped self-addressed envelope. Santovetti was third at the Vermicino- reworked 6C 2300B MM Alfa Romeo 6. Take digital colour photos (not hard motor. The reworked 2442 cc motor, Rocca di Papa. In 1953 the car finished second in the Coppa dei due Laghi. copies) of the car showing front, rear, with three Stromberg carburettors, driver’s side, and with the driver’s door There are thirteen “certified” races produced 200 bhp and propelled the car open. For convertibles, also take one in the Alfa Maserati Prete’s career, to a top speed of 240 kmh. photo with the roof off. but the car’s history is indeed more significant. 7. Send Roadworthy Certificate, proof Prete wanted to show his name on the of ownership, completed VicRoads car so he designed the emblem with forms and the stamped self-addressed Throughout its history the Prete had the AMP initials against the backdrop envelope to “CPS, PO Box 7076, several variations in bodywork: from of the Colosseum. Banyule Vic 3084”. two to four headlights, wraparound, 8. Email the digital photos to “cps@ Entrusted to Giovanni Rocco, Italian partial or no mudguards, air intake on the bonnet and with or without a alfaclubvic.org.au” advising the permit Champion for “Voiturettes” drivers application is in the mail. in 1937, the car made its debut in windshield for the passenger. 9. The signed forms will be returned to 1948, finishing eighth on the Circuit The Alfa Romeo Maserati Prete is you in the stamped, self-addressed of Pescara. Rocco participated in envelope. numerous events at the time, often listed in both the Alfa Romeo and with class and overall results worthy Maserati registers. 10. Take the forms and payment to of note. VicRoads who will then issue you with The Alfa Romeo Maserati Prete is your new Club Plates. With Prete, Rocco competed in the 1949 counted among the AUTOMOTIVE Renewals Targa Florio - Giro di Sicilia, finishing MASTERPIECES, visit the 1. Applicants must be a current Club third overall, an excellent result for dedicated website at http:// member and still the registered owner a car not prepared and raced by an www.automoti vemasterpi eces. of the vehicle. official racing team. At the 1949 Mille com/1947ampspecialsn51509750.html 2. On receipt of your CPS Registration Miglia, the Rocco-Sorrentino team, in Renewal from VicRoads, sign where sixth place at the Rome check-point, required. withdrew before the Pescara check- 3. Select the 45 or 90 day option. point. 4. Provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. 5. Send renewal form and stamped, self- addressed envelope to “CPS, PO Box 7076 Banyule Vic 3084”. 6. The CPS Officer will check the membership records and then return the signed renewal form to you. 7. Upon receipt of the signed renewal form, take the signed renewal form and payment to VicRoads. 8. The renewal form has the option of allowing the vehicle owner to pay the renewal fee by enclosing a cheque made payable to Vic Roads. In that case, enclose a cheque payable to Vic Roads but ensure that the stamped self-addressed envelope you enclose is addressed to Vic Roads. Full details of the Club Permit Scheme are provided in the AOMC Handbook. Copies of the Handbook are available, $6.50 per copy including postage) from the Club’s CPS Officer, Ivan Ciardullo, [email protected].
7 Alfa Romeo Owners’ Club of Australia (Victoria Division) presents
Alfa Romeo Club Nationals In conjunction with AROCA 50th anniversary
Mornington Peninsula Victoria Wine & Dine, Observation Run, Show & Shine, Gala Dinner Easter 19th - 22nd April 2019 All info: Alfesta2019.alfaclubvic.org.au Golden anniversary for aroca
May 2018
For members of AROCA Vic, and indeed all Alfisti in Australia and elsewhere, the club’s Golden Anniversary in 2019 will be an occasion for celebration.
The 2019 celebrations will take place on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria from Thursday April 18 to Monday April 22.
The Club’s origins began in Melbourne in the late 1960’s. Thanks to the foresight of one John Edwards who had purchased a new Giulia Super and then discovered that there was no club for Alfa Romeo owners to join, John then took it upon himself to rectify the situation. His first move was to contact Alfa Romeo in Italy, seeking their OK to start a club, which was given and, secondly, organising a small group of 12 fellow Alfa Romeo enthusiasts to meet at the Light Car Club of Australia in Queens Road Melbourne.
This group met informally on several occasions during the early part of 1969 and, in July of that same year, the Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Australia became a reality. From that initial small group of 12 the club soon expanded to 30 and by October 1969 the club had issued its first newsletter to members.
In those early days of the club membership grew quite quickly with activities ranging from economy runs, gymkhanas, trials, hill climbs, observation runs, rallies, social dinners and groups of club members attending motor race meetings. Social
Following the establishment of the club in Victoria; Alfa Romeo clubs were then established in South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and the ACT.
Fifty years on there is much for the Victorian club to celebrate. With a membership approaching 1500 AROCA Vic is one of the most active car clubs in Victoria, if not Australia, providing a wide range of activities and services, ranging from competition events at four different Victorian race circuits, driver training, model registers, social drives, car displays to workshop visits, all of which are covered in the full- colour and highly regarded bi-monthly magazine, Cross & Serpent. The club also has a website www.alfaclubvic.org.au as well as a facebook page.
Aside from the extensive number of older model Alfa Romeos, which club members have preserved and maintained so well, the arrival of new Alfa Romeos on to the market in recent years will also invoke memories of the company’s glorious past which involved extraordinary road cars and motor racing at the highest levels.
In motor racing terms the Sydney-based Mildren Alfa Racing Team did much to raise Alfa Romeo’s profile in Australia with outstanding results in touring cars (notably winning both the 1964 and 65 6-Hour races for production touring cars at Sandown), sports cars and open wheelers. The Tasman Series, which began in the 1960’s as an eight-race serieseries contested by the international Formula One cars of the era,era, drew the cream of F1 stars of the day to the Southern Hemisphere for an eight race series in New Zealand and Australia. Australian and New Zealand motor sport fans turned out in large numbers to see the internationals compete against the locals.
It is anticipated that the very extensive investment by Alfa Romeo in design and engineering of some new and very exciting models in recent times will create new generations of Alfisti, which will most assuredly ensure a healthy future for the club in Australia.
VIVA AROCA David Wright Founding & Life Member & Patron of AROCA (Vic)
9 1 “With a keen interest in all things mechanical from a young age, I guess Members it was natural to gravitate to cars as a hobby. Eventually it did become a business interest when I entered a and their Machines partnership with Alfa enthusiast Paul Oke to run Avanti Motors for a couple of years,” said Cliff.
In addition to the impressive list of cars Cliff has owned, he has also collected automotive memorabilia and some very desirable models on the shelves in his study. As an extension of his design and construction skills – and to provide pleasure for needy children - Cliff has been making wooden toys for distribution through local and overseas charities.
He has also been active with his local church, acting as Warden and Vestry member, and with his local Probus group for many years.
“I think once the creative design and build bug gets into your blood, it becomes part of you. It is a pleasure to share it - even on that small scale with toys,” he said. Cliff and Alfas How people first make a connection to the Alfa Romeo marque is always interesting. “I discovered the Alfa Romeo brand thanks to my father,” said Cliff.
“Dad was always raving about the grand prix exploits of the 1930s and 1940s Alfas. The brand’s high reputation for engineering and their competition performance made them stand out from other makes.
“Once I drove one, the beautiful design, great handling and responsive, exciting drive confirmed my enthusiasm. To me, Alfa Romeos have charisma. Everything is ‘just In this second profile piece, we chat with another long so’ with superb engineering detail. term AROCA member - Cliff Bills. His passion for the Alfa “My first Alfa was a red 1964 Giulia Romeo marque has been well proven through ownership of Sprint GT purchased in 1965 from a significant number of cars and his keen volunteer work Bib Stillwell on a trade of my 1964 EH as an AROCA leader. Holden. I had originally dropped in to Stillwell’s to check out a Corvette. So that was a big change of choice!
Introducing Cliff Bills Ruwolt, CRA, Prok, United Engineers, “We were a busy family then with Australian National Industries, Bradken Melbourne born, Cliff now makes his three children, but that Giulia was and the State Electricity Commission of permanent home in what was originally my daily driver and started a life Victoria. Cliff and partner Natalie’s holiday house long affair with Alfas,” said Cliff. at Merrick’s Beach on the Mornington Many of the projects that Cliff contributed Cliff and Natalie went on to own an Peninsula. Now retired, Cliff was a to were of a massive scale consisting of enviable list of Alfa Romeos. Their dark mechanical engineer whose work in the huge gas processing vessels and conveyor green 1965 2600 Berlina was very rare mining and energy industries moved him belts many kilometres long carrying in Australia and their red 1967 Giulia from capital cities to remote sites across minerals from mines to distribution GT Veloce is now owned by Gary Pearce. Australia and to North America and terminals and refining plants. Proof of Other Alfas enjoyed by Cliff and Natalie Malaysia. his design and engineering skill is that were a white 1965 Giulia Super, white most of these projects are still operating 1970 1750 Berlina, yellow 1973 2000 Cliff worked for a number of major firms decades later. Berlina, a red 1973 2000 GTV and a Brown during his long and successful career. 1980 2000 Spider purchased in San Jose Among the big players were Vickers California. 10 2
3
4
“That Spider was Natalie’s car when we “When the metal cancer started to lived in Vancouver, converted to RHD by re-appear in 1978, we asked Peter myself on return to Australia and is now Todd at Thoroughbred and Classic fully restored and owned by our daughter Restorations to make the body sound Debbie”. again. His magic panel work and a new interior brought the car back The favourite of all was their white 1965 up to such a standard that Sports Giulia Sprint Speciale. “We purchased Car World magazine featured it in a that car in 1970 through a newspaper centre page article in 1985. advertisement. When we were trying to verify its identity, the Melbourne Alfa “After 15 years ownership, we sold dealer Murray Wright said there were no this great little car to fellow club Giulia SS’s in Australia,” said Cliff. member Brian Horman in late 1985,” 5 said Cliff with a hint of nostalgia in “However, the South Yarra seller his voice. 1 After its second body restoration, Cliff’s 1965 confirmed its identity and I knew Giulia Sprint Speciale was photographed for When asked if he is keen about other I had to have it. It was in run down a centre page spread in Sports Car World marques of cars, Cliff responded: “Yes, magazine’s January 1986 edition. condition, so I drove it home with and my Alfa friends do not understand great care late at night to be met by me! Apart from Alfas, I have always been 2 While Cliff was on assignment in Vancouver an unbelieving Natalie. keen on American iron, as long- time in 1988, Natalie became the happy owner of a 1982 Spider. She brought this car back “Originally a UK car converted friend John Emery calls them ‘20 feet of to Australia where Cliff converted it to right properly to right hand drive by Tony tortured tin’. hand drive and it is now owned by their Rudd, who did the conversions daughter. on contract to Alfa Romeo sold “Again, my father started it. For my there, it now needed total body and first car he handed me down his 3 The family hand-me-down 1937 Pontiac “hot rod” carried Natalie and Cliff on their honey mechanical refurbishment. Once green 1937 Pontiac. It had been well moon. that job was done, it rewarded used - it had been my mother’s and us with seven years’ use as daily my older brother’s car too. I worked 4 Cliff’s favourite Alfa model was his 1965 transport and countless Alfa club it over creating a bit of a hot rod, Giulia Sprint Speciale pictured at an AROCA events. which did not impress my father. Motorkhana held at Casey Airfield in 1971. 5 Cliff pictured in about 1940 setting his first 6 car up to drift across the back yard in East Hawthorn.
6 Always a big fan of American iron, Cliff could not resist the power and sleek lines of this 1977 Corvette, which he imported and converted to right hand drive in 1983.
11 “In 1982, I brought a white 1977 Corvette to Australia and carried out the mirror image conversion to right hand drive myself. Like the Sprint Speciale, I blueprinted and balanced the engine and made it a really nice car. Unfortunately, with my physical injuries I could no longer access the car and sold it just a few months ago.
“Following the success of the Corvette venture, in 1987 we imported a 1978 Grey over black Chevrolet Camaro from the States”.
“Continuing the hot rod theme to a degree, the garage still houses our sand colour 2008 Holden Calais. Its six litre Chevrolet V8 was slightly 7 worked to produce 350 Kw driving 8 through a six speed auto.
“With no badges on the body work, it is a ‘sleeper’ as they say. Seriously quick, it is also a very comfortable, relatively economical and exceptionally quiet tourer. Even better, Natalie loves travelling in it.
“For family cars we have had too many Holdens to mention, three Mercedes sedans - a Blue 250, yellow 230 and red 300E 2.6 litre. And we still have the shopping trolley - a white 2000 Toyota Camry,” said Cliff.
Cliff and AROCA Always keen to engage with fellow Alfisti, Cliff joined AROCA in 1970 as member #43. From the outset he participated in all types of events and soon became part of the management team. “During those early days club 9 member, stalwart and then Cliff’s contribution to AROCA ranged magazine editor, Norma Ottaway, from committee work to holding the loaned her as- new 1968 1600 GTV Presidency in 1972-73 and for several to John Emery to race - provided years from 1975 was a member of the I would prepare and maintain it, Technical Committee. which I did. Norma’s generosity and trust gave us years’ of fun. “While president, I worked with Bob “In Tasmania in 1974 John located the Gardiner against opposition from wreck of the 1965 Sandown Six Hour some committee members, to gain Race winning Giulia TI Super driven membership of the Marque Sports by Roberto Bussinello and Sydney- Car Association. Interestingly some side Ralph Sach. John bought that members did not consider we car, and together with club member should be racing these expensive and great friend David Smith, we fully restored the car. We had many 7 The close knit and formidable Alfisti team cars. And the MSCA were not happy running the “barn find” Roberto Bussinello in accepting us because they did not great years campaigning it in Group N Appendix J races. Giulia TI Super in Group N Appendix J consider that the GTs were ‘sports’ events during the 1970s included (left to cars because they had a rear seat,” “On quieter days, one of the things right) Cliff, Norma Ottaway, driver John he said. that Natalie I have greatly enjoyed Emery and David Smith. over the years, is sharing our “During that time, thanks to Bob, Merricks Beach property with 8 AROCA’s first competition event was a the Club participated in its first ever club members. We have very fond night rally run by the Swinburne Technical College Car Club. Alfisti participating that rally with the Swinburne Technical memories of many BBQs with lots of nigh included (left to right) Doug Gardiner, College Car Club. From those Alfa Romeos parked on the lawns. Les McNeil, Terry Potter, Bob Gardiner, small beginnings we have grown Tom Ottaway, Cliff, David Smith, Natalie into a strong organisation. With the “Things at AROCA seem to me to be going very well and we have Bills, Fred Birkbeck, Norma Ottaway, Gail Sprint Speciale we were especially Simpson, Marion Smith, Ros Potter. busy with club activity, including an amazing range of events. I am delighted to see the club is in such competing in sprints, economy runs 9 The Bills family 1965 2600 Berlina sedan good health,” declared Cliff. and motorkhanas. pictured in 1971 was a rare Alfa Romeo model in Australia. 12 By Barry Oosthuizen A Reader Responds
I was given a copy of your magazine while competing at Phillip Island - I am the owner of a couple of Alfa’s, but not a member of your club (have enough of those already).
I thought your magazine was quite good and would particularly congratulate you on suitably captioning each photograph - this has been a bit of a hobby horse of mine for another car club magazine, and it is certainly not done as well as you do it.
Your editorial on autonomous cars got my interest, though my perspective is somewhat different from yours. My perspective is from that of an engineer who has been involved in vehicle related design and regulation for many years and who reads a lot of material about autonomous vehicles.
I couldn’t help writing a counter article. Feel free to publish it if you wish.
Autonomous Car - Another View
Autonomous cars were hardly mentioned just a few years ago, but now it seems the technology is mentioned every other day. There was even an editorial on the subject in the March issue of the Cross+Serpent!
Some of the views often expressed about the introduction of autonomous cars are obvious possibilities that will probably melt to nothing in reality. We could start by remembering that when the automobile was first invented it had to be escorted by a person on foot with a red flag - there were not too many other laws in place about to drive them, or the need for a licence, or much in the way of road-side signage!
And I can’t resist it - how many accidents do you think where caused by horses when the most dangerous animal to humans today, in Australia, is the horse!
Claims about algorithms needing to be 100% accurate are wrong for three reasons. First is that the issue is more about sensors than algorithms, because you have to “see” something before you can work out what do about it - although resolving the trolley problem within this debate might take a while to settle. The second reason is that “algorithms” are already better than the average driver as evidenced by autonomous cars already having a better safety record, and thirdly, its logically silly, though not politically silly, to say that an inferior human cannot be replaced by superior technology for the reason that the technology is not perfect. That’s like saying you should walk because you cannot afford a new Alfa Romeo, or that you should not fly because aeroplanes can crash!
The few accidents that are often reported are more, “so what” than anything with substance. The driver that was killed when his Tesla hit a semi-trailer that turned in front of him was warned beforehand by his vehicle. The required fix will be built into all future vehicles and has probably already implemented in the existing fleet. Another vehicle hit a bus because it “obeyed the law” and did not “chicken out” like a human driver would - change the rule in the autonomous vehicle and it’s all fixed, forever.
It’s not clear what caused the latest Uber death, but there is little doubt it can be fixed, and will not happen again. When was the last time you made a driving mistake and all the other drivers in the world both learnt from your mistake and ensured they did not make the same mistake again ever?
Laws are already being enacted around the world for the introduction of autonomous cars, and live in-traffic trials are being conducted with fleets of up to 100 vehicles. Vehicle manufacturers are looking at commercially available vehicles early in the 2020’s, and some manufactures have already indicated that they will assume responsibility for any vehicle accidents attributable to their autonomous vehicle - given that autonomous vehicles seem less likely to have an accident than human driven ones, my guess is that the “insurance” cost will not be too great.
If you want to worry about something in the future, then the odds are probably better for not being allowed to drive on the roads, except perhaps for special occasions, because human drivers will be too dangerous, comparatively, to be allowed to drive on public roads - and they will probably be worse drivers in the future because most will only be able to drive infrequently.
You might also worry about the cost of petrol when a proliferation of electric cars means that it is no longer produced in bulk.
Most of the things peopled worry about today will sort themselves out, as they always do, so enjoy your Alfa Romeo while you can.
Trevor McPherson Canberra ACT
13 Max’s Day Out
side from his role as the Captain of the Current Model Register, Max Maltese is also a very keen Aphotographer, making the most of any opportunity to add to his growing portfolio of his favourite non-Alfa Romeo subjects, landscape photos.
On his latest foray to the Victorian countryside Max invited members of the Giulietta group to join him for a day out in one of his favourite spots, the You Yangs National Park (west of Melbourne) with the group enjoying the opportunity to participate in a photoshoot and positioning their cars among the trees for the camera.
Max has plans to repeat this exercise in the future with other Alfa groups. If anyone has a favourite spot they believe would be suitable for one of Max’s photoshoot, pass on the details to him.
14
Icons aplentyle on
ach year a section of Lygon Street Any outdoor event organiser who a display of exotic Italian cars and Italian in Carlton is turned over to a static manages to luck in with a fine and sunny food so close together? Edisplay of Italian motoring icons, an day as well as being able to block the event that attracts an impressive variety street off to through traffic is almost Zagame Automotive have been great of four and two wheel vehicles and large guaranteed to attract a crowd. This was supporters of this event in the past numbers of people. the case on March 4th with the display and once again they had a very visible attracting a very large crowd of people of presence this year. In addition to their This year the Italian four and two-wheel all ages who enjoyed the opportunity to usual selection of exotic Italians from fraternity demonstrated their support of wander among the cars and enjoy such a their Swan Street Richmond showrooms, the event by turning out once again in large number and variety of exotic Italian Zagame also brought along a Stelvio. large numbers to put on an impressive icons. It was hard to tell which was the more display of the Italian marques, Alfa popular on the day, the Lamborghinis Romeo, Fiat, Lancia, Ferrari, Maserati Having such a large number and and the other exotics or the Stelvio. and Lamborghini with examples of impressive variety of exotic Italian cars The Stelvio certainly got its fair share of different eras from each one. As usual and two wheel vehicles assembled in attention all day with large numbers of two-wheel icons were included and the an area also well known for good dining people keen to check out Alfa Romeo’s display ran the full length of the block experiences no doubt hard to resist. Who latest offering. between Faraday and Elgin Streets. among us could resist the temptation of This display of Italian icons in Lygon Street Carlton has become a very popular event in the calendar and with the support of both the public and the Italian car fraternity, hopefully it will continue for a long time to come.
16 17 18 Discover award-winning Caulfield Village.
Located in one of Australia’s top 10 property growth areas
On the doorstep of Monash New homes now under University’s fastest growing construction starting from campus $455,000. Club Members receive $2,000 Includes residents’ kitchen, towards purchasing fees. dining room, library, business centre, cinema & wine cellar
Call Club Member Greg Briggs for details on 0409 790 182
19 Autobella 3 4 2018By Karen Murray
unday the 8th April saw the faithful gather for the Fiat Club’s annual SAutobella event at Como Park in South Yarra with around 200 cars squeezed onto the northern oval. Unlike last year when the event was almost washed out because of the biblical-like rain, this year the event enjoyed a welcome change with a warm and sunny day.
Aside from the large number of Fiats of 56 various ages and models there was also a good spread of Italian makes represented; 7 my personal highlight was TWO Enzo Ferraris! You are lucky to see one Enzo but two, wow. A dozen Lancia Deltas and a Lamborghini Countach really made for an impressive display of Italian cars.
Mine and around six other Alfa’s were present to fly the flag for the Alfa Romeo club, among them David Wright’s beautifully restored 2600 Sprint and a lovely very original Alfasud Ti.
Autobella is always a very popular and well organised event and with great food and a fashion parade I will definitely have to put it on my calendar for next year.
8
1
2
20 9
10
11
12 1. Alfa Sud. 2. Alfa Romeo Giulia. 3. Fiat Abarth. 4. Lancia Delta Integrale. 5 105 GTV. 6. 2600 Sprint. 7. Maserati. 8. Ferrari Dino. 9. Lamborghini. 10 Fiat 500. 11. Fiat Ballila. 12. Alfa Romeo 159.
21 eflectio
As we know, 105 series Alfas are extremely responsive sporting cars that were developed from the brilliant 750 and 101 Giulietta series but they were created nfortunately, from my Although often over-looked, the 2600 for a very different market to the 2600. It observations, Alfa Romeo Sprint meets my ideals for true Gran is a tribute to 105 series Alfas that today U2600’s, are little known and not Turismo motoring with a car that can they are placed in the company of cars well understood, even by many Alfisti, accommodate four adult passengers in from much higher price categories but despite the best effforts in the past from comfort. 2600’s had very few true competitors in knowledgeable people like Tony McKone their market segment. The Fiat 2300S in New South Waless. Over the years I have read many articles and the Lancia Flaminia were two 2600 where comparisons have been made with Sprint competitors, the Bristol, Jensen To be upfront and whilehile I could be 42 cylinder Alfas but the 2600 was never and Gordon Keeble coupes from England regarded as biasedd, the folollowing is a intended to be an enlarged 105 series with the Mercedes-Benz 220 and 300SEW well-considered atttempt to exxplain the model. The seating and creature comforts coupes also in this rather exclusive real attributes of tthe 2600 Sprinrint. Any were much superior to the 105 series market niche. accusation of bias might be becauause I models with features such as electric have owned four 26000’s since 1974 (thrhree windows and rear window demisting as The Lancia Aurelia B20 of the 1950’s is SitSprints and dBli a Berlinna))b but ti in my defence, d f e, stan dar d equip iment . Id enti tiffyi ng th e 1600 generallygenerally regardedregarded as the first po postst-war I have driven many other Alfas and have Giulia Sprint as a GT probably contributed Grand Turismo car but Alfa 1900 Sprints had a long time to reflect on this subject. to the odious comparisons with 2600 of the same era are also legitimate Sprinrints but to be fair, GT was common contenders for this claim, particularly terminoinology in the 1960’s. as their platforms were sufficiently advanced to provide the basis for the
22 Relaxed open road cruising is another outstanding feature of the 2600 Sprint and I can recall many interstate trips when we reached our destination without fatigue. Its handling is quite neutral with mild understeer reducing progressively with judicious use of the accelerator. Whether the original disc/drum set-up or the 4 wheel discs of the later cars, the brakes are excellent and completely fade-free. The steering takes some effort at parking speeds but it is not as heavy as a MK 2 3.4 or 3.8 Jaguar. Most importantly, the 2600 is very pleasant to drive moderately in today’s speed-restricted world.
Maintenance Notes Many Alfa experts, including the late Pat Braden from America, claim that the 2600 is the most “bullet proof” Alfa of the 1960’s. They require only basic maintenance and the Solex PHH carburettors stay in tune although they can be replaced with Weber 45’s or Dellorto’s to improve acceleration but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and more frequent adjustments.
Occasional re-tensioning of the cylinder head will protect the gasket and periodic use of the grease gun eliminates wear of the king pins and moving parts in the front suspension. And don’t forget the steering box which is buried under the carburettors on right hand drive cars and sometimes needs to be topped up. The wear rate in the steering box is rather severe without oil and this has unfairly given the 2600 steering box a poor reputation.
The unusual 165 x 400 wheel/tyre size ons on the 2600 Sprint restricts the choice to either Michelin X or Pirelli Cinturato tyres, but to preserve the original feel and handling characteristics I strongly advise against changing to 15 2600 models 12 years later. When first performance vehicles. The road test or 16 inch wheels and sticky tyres. launched, Bristol’s were known as The reports which followed proved that the Business Man’s Express. The Gran 2600 lived up to its promise. This is a very short maintenance list for a Turismo Family Express would have been high- performance car of the 1960’s, but a good advertising tag for the Alfa 2600 Driving impressions be beware, the 2600’s strong reliability Sprint! Despite the praiseworthy test reports, itt can be a weakness as under-maintained was difficult to convey the sophisticated examples perform well short of this Getting all that out of the way we can manner in which the 2600’s high model’s capabilities. now focus on the true appeal of the 2600 performance was delivered. You had to Sprint. I clearly recall the impact of my take a long drive to properly understand In view of the small number of 2600 first encounter with a 2600 Sprint which this and the same applies today. It is Sprints that are now in circulation, their took place in 1964 at Lightburn Industries refinement and not sheer acceleration orr ‘mystery’ status is understandable but showroom in Elizabeth Street Melbourne. cornering ability that sets the 2600 apart. along with the qualities I have outlined The beautiful lines of its Giugiaro- above and their intrinsic value as a 1960’s designed Bertone body and impeccable The smooth, flexible engine is one of Alfa Romeo, sooner or later these cars interior detailing was breath-taking to the 2600’s most notable features, vividly will be highly sought-after. a young enthusiast and to my mind it illustrated by Alfa’s claim of 38.5 seconds has clearly stood the test of time. Its to accelerate from 40kph to 200kph in 5th Where else will you find a pedigreed four all-al umi ni um 6 cyli nd er t wi n overh ead gear with a fully loaded car. I have never cam engine with triple carburettors, seat high-performance Gran Turismo tried this. As with all Alfas of this period Italian car with a classic Bertone body 5-speed all synchro gearbox and huge the gearbox is a delight to use. disc brakes were also breath-taking and without an exotic price tag? well in advance of contemporary high-
23 Clive Massel Car 1965 Giulia Super Circuuit Sandown 24 Date February 2018 25 Italian automotive design, continuing to grow in popularity each year, attracting owners and admirers of Italian automotive design from near and far with quite a few Auto Italian regulars travelling from interstate just for the event. 3 As in previous years Victorians made up a significant proportion of the interstate visitors to Canberra for the event; some of whom, like the Pantaleos and the Harrisons, made it a long weekend by travelling to the national capital prior to the weekend while others left it to the Saturday to travel. Mario and Carol Pantaleo followed their usual route to Canberra by taking in the north east of Victoria in the Giulietta while Hugh and Wendy Harrison enjoyed their first long trip in the 1972 1600 Zagato Junior, travelling up via the Hume Freeway and back via the coast.. Apart from a speedo cable that broke not long after they left home Hugh reported that the first Auto Italia 2018 run in the Z was trouble-free and very comfortable.
Last year Ian and Meredith Masterman Canberra travelled to Canberra in their then magnitudeit d andd significancei ifi off ItItaly’sl ’ recently acquired RZ, this year Ian NewN hhome ffor a contribution to personal mobility around travelled on his own in another recent favourite event the world and this event shows it better acquisition, a 1970 1300 Zagato Junior than most. to double the number of Junior’s at the or an event that began way back in event. Long time Alfa 90 devotee Mal 1984 as a social BBQ for the local In May last year the National Capital Muir, also a regular attendee at Auto FFiat and Alfa Romeo clubs, Auto Authority, which controls the use of the Italia, was overjoyed when he spotted Italia in Canberra has grown to become grassed lands around Canberra’s Lake two other 90’s at the event so his day was THE MUST GO TO event for owners, Burley Griffin, dropped a bombshell complete and Lea Para used his Alfetta enthusiasts, collectors and fans of Italian when they declared that car shows would Grand Prix for the trip. There were other cars, motorbikes and scooters. no longer be held on the grassed areas Victorians who travelled the easy way by near Lake Burley Griffin. If anyone knows flying to and from Canberra just for the why this decision was made they are not event. It is only when one looks at the number saying anything publicly. The ensuing and variety of four and two-wheel search by the organisers of Auto Italia For many Auto Italia, as an event, is as offerings from the likes of Ferrari, for a new and suitable venue for their much a combination of an enjoyable Lamborghini, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, very popular event came up with Pialligo social occasion and an opportunity to Lancia, DeTomaso, Fiat, Ducati, MV Estate, out near Canberra’s Airport, as catch up with old friends and compare Augusta, Cagiva, Laverda, Piaggio, the best available site for Auto Italia 2018. vehicles as it is an opportunity to show off Aprilia, Vespa, Gilera, Moto Guzzi, Benelli, Presented by the Italian Cars Association two or four wheel Italian beauties. Abarth, Lambretta, Bimota and Italjet, of the ACT, Auto Italia has been the ideal that one really begins to appreciate the showcase to display the best of classic
26 The move to a new venue this year didn’t successfully mind you but then again as seem to deter the die-hard regulars to the someone commented, arranging cars in event but there was certainly fewer cars groups at an event such as this is akin to and people this year, perhaps because herding cats. of the weather, perhaps because of the change in venue. There were rumors that Something missing from this year’s event owners of a couple of the marques that was the atmosphere that seemed to be usually attend the event in big numbers more evident at the Old Parliamentary were advised not to attend because of the House site but perhaps that will come in dusty road to the venue. Disappointing good time. if true. Fortunately most ignored that advice and turned up to represent their The very cold wind which dropped the particular marque. temperature to an uncomfortably low level, something that no outdoor event The delay getting into the venue at organiser can do much about, may the start of the day, due to the narrow well have contributed to the smaller access road, was an issue for many turn out but those that did brave the (unfortunately it happened later in the 11° temperature still seemed to enjoy day as people left the event) and led to a wandering the rows of cars, bikes and few negative comments on social media scooters or enjoying a coffee and the food about the event and the venue. One offerings, limited though the culinary wonders how many of those so quick to offerings were. criticize could have come up with a better alternative in the circumstances. Despite the very cold day I still enjoyed the event and with it the chance to cast Each of the various two and four wheel my eyes and camera over such a large Italian marques had display areas to number of magnificent Italian classics; themselves with some effort made to old, new and in between, as well as arrange vehicles in model groups on the meeting up with many old friends that Pialligo Estate grasslands. Not altogether one meets far too infrequently.
27 Meeting new friends, talking cars and comparing Giulia sedans with fellow owners always adds to the enjoyment of any event, particularly when you discover that one of them, a red 1971 model Super, has been owned by the same family since it was first purchased in the early 1970’s and is still in a very original, unmolested condition and another, also a late model 1300 Ti in silver, which attracted a few very interested onlookers when the owner returned and lifted the bonnet to show off some recently fitted ‘good’ bits sourced from that well-known UK source. Both cars were very impressive and obviously much cared.
There were of course many other well- presented and eye-catching cars on the day and it took a few tours of the display to take them all in. One lap of the venue was certainly not enough to take it all in. GT Owners group leader Leon Cottle would have been over the moon with the number of his favourite GT’s at the event. Cold weather and fewer cars/people aside, Auto Italia 2018 was still an enjoyable and well attended event with lots of automotive eye candy to satisfy the discerning fans of Italian automotive design.
The organisers of Auto Italia have already nominated April 7th as the date for 2019; all that has to be done now is to decide where Auto Italia #34 will be held. Maybe they should talk to the organisers of Sumner Nats although I can’t image too many of the Italian car brigade doing donuts and burn outs in their classics.
28 CALL US 03 9036 1606
Supplying a large range of new OEM and aftermarket spare parts for:
Alfa Romeo · Fiat · Lancia · Ferrari · Maserati Lamborghini · Fiat Professional · Iveco
Quality and trusted brands Club member discount Competitively priced Large range in stock vwViÌ`iÛiÀÞ Early to current model product range
9 Kirkdale Street, W: www.italianautomotivespares.com.au Brunswick East, VIC 3057 E: [email protected] 29 Spettacolo Overflow
s the deadline for this issue left over from the Spettacolo coverage loomed large I discovered that in the previous issue, so why not use AI would be short a couple of them. After all, the club members who articles for this issue, which left me with had gone to the effort on such a hot day a problem; what to use to fill the space. to photograph the cars and then send I didn’t, and still don’t have much in their photos to me may have been a bit the way of spare material that could be disappointed that their photographic used at a time like this, at least enough efforts hadn’t been used. So, for the to fill the space. Something that I should benefit of the photographers and the rectify for times like this. club members whose cars missed out on being included in the previous issue, It did occur to me, obviously a light- I hope that you will enjoy this overflow bulb moment, that I had a lot of photos from Spettacolo.
30 31 1 waiting at a railway crossing so we joined the queue, and waited, and waited. Finally there was some action with cars turning around, the boom gates were stuck with no indication as to how long the delay would be. The Alfa’s followed suit and headed back to the freeway to continue this quest to get to Noojee in time for lunch.
Once back on the freeway it was full speed (relatively) to Noojee, keeping an eye out for the signs to direct us off the freeway. Once off the freeway and onto the lesser roads the route took in some very scenic Gippsland countryside leading to Noojee and the local with Colin Thomas taking on the role of director of parking and pointing the Alfas to any available spots close to the hotel. The Noojee Hotel is obviously a A Sunday Adventure very popular spot on a Sunday so parking was at a premium but everyone managed OK. The line-up of Alfas across the road n March around 30 club members An impromptu roadside discussion by a from the hotel did look good and attracted gathered at the Blue Turtle café in few of the group was then followed by a the usual admirers. ILilydale for the start of the drive to suggestion from the police that we could Noojee in Gippsland organised by club either go back the way we came or use the social sec Ari Semertzidis who produced dirt road off to the right. “It’s only a couple Once inside, the Alfa group found a an enjoyable run of 90 kms over some of kilometres” suggested one of the warm and friendly atmosphere with a familiar roads through the Dandenongs police offers so the twenty-strong convoy good variety of meals on the menu and and beyond, to the coffee break stop at the of Alfas then headed on to the dirt road, after making their choices were soon Gladysdale Bakery, a place that has been with larger than usual gaps between cars making inroads into the culinary offerings visited to on previous club outings.. and travelling at a reduced pace to avoid delivered to the tables by the hotel staff. throwing up loose stones on to the car Like many such establishments these were country-hotel-sized meals and just After everyone enjoyed the usual wide behind. I’m sure most of the drivers were as enjoyable. A good spot to finish what selection of refreshments and tasty reminding themselves that it was only a had been a rather adventurous drive Ari. treats Ari rounded everyone up and it was couple of kilometres as they meandered Well done. time to hit the road once more for the along. 125-kilometre second stage of the journey to Noojee for lunch at the local. Eight kilometres later one could almost The Noojee Hotel has quite a history hear a collective sigh of relief right along behind it with lots of historic photos lining the walls. Built by Sydney Wentworth It wasn’t all that far from Gladysdale when the convoy, and murmurings of ‘that has Smith, the hotel opened in September the orderly drive through the countryside to be the longest eight kilometres of all 1925, to cater for the then growing timber to the east of Melbourne by a group of club time’ as the bitumen finally hove into sight industry, to provide accommodation and members turned into a bit of an adventure. once more and the drive to Noojee was for the consumption of beer. The hotel Everything was going well and everyone back on track. survived the ‘Black Sunday’ bushfires in was enjoying the roads and the scenery, 1926 and again in 1939 with the ‘Black until the road ahead was blocked by police A few kilometres further along and by this Friday’ bushfires which were considered who said that we couldn’t proceed any stage I had long since given up following worse than those of 1926. Many of the further because there was a fire in the Ari’s route instructions, preferring instead locals were reported to have taken refuge area. to stay close to the Alfa in front as its from the fire in the nearby Latrobe River, occupants did seem to know where they huddling under blankets as the fires raged were heading, there was a line of cars about them. The hotel, the only brick
2 3
32 building in Noojee, the butcher’s shop and one house were the only buildings to survive the fires and the hotel took on the role of the local school and most of the other general businesses in the town until the town was re-established. After a small fire in 1998 the hotel was rebuilt with the fire places and front pillars of the building all that remain from the original building.
Aside from the historic hotel itself there are a few other interesting local spots worth visiting. One of them is a waterwheel in the nearby Latrobe River, just below the hotel, the history of which also goes back to when the hotel was first built. Local legend has it that when Smith built the hotel he wanted to generate his own electricity to operate an illicit gaming room in the hotel so he constructed a large water wheel with wooden paddles. 4 There was already an electrical hydro 5 6 scheme operating down the river which supplied electricity to Noojee, the local timber mill and surrounding districts and the electricity board of the day refused to approve the waterwheel.
The original waterwheel disappeared long ago and was replaced with the current waterwheel which has a much lighter metal structure and is, according to photographs in the hotel of the original waterwheel, quite different. The current waterwheel apparently uses the same water entrance and axle shaft on ball races mounted on brickwork and has been sitting in the river for as long as any of the locals can remember. It is believed that although the waterwheel rotates with the flow of the river it never generated any electric power and has just been sitting in the river as a feature for about 80 years. There are 7 hopes locally that funds could eventually be raised to restore the waterwheel to the 8 point where it could rotate once again as it 1 With parking at a premium outside the hotel, used to. across the road was the next best spot for the Alfas. Another interesting local attraction is a 2 On the bank of the nearby Latrobe River there large trestle bridge but time constraints is a large expanse of grass just below the hotel, on this occasion ensure that a return visit ideal for some after-lunch exercise on the to Noojee is on the list. trampoline or to check out the animals in the 9 pen 3 By the end of the 8 kms of dirt road a few cars 10 had picked up some extra ballast along the way. 4 An unusual photo, Alfa Romeos on a dirt road. All travelling slowly to avoid flicking up loose gravel on to the following car. 5 For some a coffee and a chat is enough to start the day while others need a little more, such as a breakfast. 6 After a couple of detours along the way, hardly surprising that one of the topics during lunch was the diversions enroute which added to the drive. 7 It wasn’t all red Alfas on the day, this white Giulietta breaking up the display of red at Gladysdale. 8 A backdrop of trees along the banks of the nearby Latrobe River made for a pleasant place to enjoy lunch at the Noojee Hotel. 9 Club president Mandy Thompson getting to know one of the locals. 10 The Noojee Waterwheel, an interesting bit of history from Noojee’s past. 33 An Alfa Drive is like a box of Chocolates (With apologies to Forest Gump)
You see the ad for that dream car ~ box of A dreamy sleep ensues complete with The ultimate smell of new leather ~ premium Belgium chocolates thrilling images flashing by at 200kmh ~ piquant aroma of choc-mint satisfying mastication at 200 ki-lojoules per You visit the ritzy showroom ~ slick mouthful The big concert hall sound of the Harmon chocolateria Kardon system ~ the massive explosion of a Then the new day dawns and you find it freshly scorched almond You salivate over the 2.9 litre twin turbo V6 threatens rain ~ forecast to soar to a melting ~ finest dark with luscious soft centres 40 degrees! The supreme comfort of body-hugging seats ~ gorgeous soft firmness of a Turkish You are seduced by the Italian designer Panic sets in. What a disaster if the delight style ~ the master chocolatier’s fine artistry spotless machine becomes soiled on the second day with wet road grime ~ the You read the slick glossy brochure’s delicate chockies ooze into a molten syrup! Then……. enticing description of the ultimate driving experience ~ the exquisitely cello-phane- Relieved, the weather abates. In an instant of concentration lapse. wrapped box and its promise of orgasmic Disaster. You scrape a rim on a nasty gastronomic pleasures bluestone kerb that you swear jumped But wait, another crisis develops. Your into your path ~ fumble and drop the box, On the inner leaf of the back page ~ bottom mate turns up and wants a drive ~ taste damaging a choc-coated macadamia. of the box Reluctantly you agree, nervously watching You further inform yourself of the his every move and hoping he doesn’t Devastating! impressive power and torque figures ~ select the wrong gear ~ your favourite the high percentage of cocoa and the best cappuccino truffle Depressed, you venture out for a fast lap quality ingredients known to man as punishment ~ throw down a handful of You steer him towards the short route coconut roughs in disgust You admiringly walk around the gleaming around the block ~ point to the dud almond machine ~ turn the beautifully packaged box marzipan centred selection With the wind in your hair from the over open glass roof you realise the dream is fortunately still very much alive ~ the box You lift the bonnet and check the build date After all, this is your gig, your isn’t empty yet! ~ turn to the side and peruse the use by date dream, your indulgence. The Alfa Romeo driving experience you You take the beauty for a test drive ~ accept You can’t wait to slice up that renowned remember is a recurring pleasure. It never a free sample from Madame’s selection tray S-bend ~ work your tongue around that milk goes away. chocolate twirl You are convinced this is the most sublime ride ~ taste ~ you’ve ever experienced Thank God. Test that jarring rough stretch ~ wicked peanut brittle Now your mind is made up. The chocolate box experience however is a finite one, despite all efforts to will it to last Revel in that creamy V6 torque ~ luscious You must have that Italian masterpiece ~ longer. flowing caramel soft centre gourmet extravaganza Unfortunately we don’t live in TV land Feel that explosive top end power ~ tingling It’s pre-delivered with a set of where packets of chocolate goodies are sorbet with its climactic finishing fizz complimentary mats and bottle of Italian magically replenished. Yes, another could wine to celebrate ~ gift-wrapped with bonus be purchased, but it’s just not the same. Check out the traction control on that bit ribbon and fancy bow to impress the good of dirt road from yesteryear ~ get you lady So yes, a drive is like a box of chocolates. lips around the icing sugar-dusted hand- But only to a point. And I think I’ve convinced moulded truffle Nervously you take your prize home, myself which I prefer! cautiously to avoid scratches and dents ~ Then climb under to see the wonders of not to shake the contents or tear the wrapping David Roberts the mechanically superb underbelly ~ Self-confessed Alfaholic ~ chocoholic suck off the outer chocolate layer to discover You pour over the owner’s manual ~ truffle the driving burst of sweet flavour within selection menu You hope the delights can last forever ~ In order to savour the experience, you dream of that everlasting packet of Tim Tams tuck the new machine safely away in the garage - ~ pop the box in your secret top You’ve fallen head over heels with the shelf hiding place in the cupboard mechanical music the V6 orchestrates ~ the satisfying scrunch of that hon-eycomb crunch combo 34 Not Quite Your Average Find fter it sat in the same place [outside I presume], for 30 years one of the rustiest AAlfasuds ever seen has been found in the UK. It is a rare South African-built 1978 Alfasud TI series 2, 4-door. All TI’s in South Africa were 4 door, right hand drive. As the photo shows, the front and rear of the car have separated and it looks like half the steel has also gone to God.
The South African-built Alfasuds had locally sourced trim and components and were unique and different to Italian assembled models.
Words of advice - If you own an Alfasud, don’t park it outside.
By Colin Thomas
Insure your love for less [Tbb ^] h^da X]bdaP]RT P]S\^aT19 ^]h^da ^QbTbbX^] • B_TPZc^b_TRXP[XbcbcPçfW^bWPaTh^da_PbbX^] • BT[TRch^da^f]aT_PXaTaP]S aTRTXeT P[XUTcX\TVdPaP]cTT ^]PdcW^aXbTS aT_PXab • 5[TgXQ[T _aT\Xd\ ^_cX^]b P]S PVaTTSeP[dTc^_a^cTRccWTeP[dT^Uh^daX]eTbc\T]c • C^UX]S^dc\^aTeXbXcdb^][X]T)www.lsvinsurance.com.au
Call 133 578 today to see how much you could save
;d\[ThB_TRXP[ETWXR[TbXbPcaPSX]V]P\T^UF588]bdaP]RT;X\XcTS01=!# "%!&(05B;!# #% 0]hPSeXRTXbVT]TaP[^][hP]SS^Tb]{cR^]bXSTah^da]TTSb 1TU^aTPRcX]V^]XcR^]bXSTaXUXcXbaXVWcU^ah^dQhaTPSX]VcWT?a^SdRc3XbR[^bdaTBcPcT\T]c PePX[PQ[TPcfff [beX]bdaP]RT R^\ Pd
35 swapping to the older 2.5 litre engines just for the eight race Tasman Series.
A combination of an increase in the commercialisation of F1 and the F1 drivers no longer able, or wanting to 3 spend two months of F1’s off season in the southern sun ultimately contributed to the demise of the 2.5 litre formula Tasman Series and the F5000’s taking over. The 1969 Tasman Series was the last of the all 2.5 lire Tasman Series with the 1970 Tasman Series being fought out by both 2.5 litre and F5000 cars which went on to become the primary category contesting the Australian Driver’s Championship.
The F5000 era was the era of the European-built Lola’s, McLarens and Chevrons which dominated the category, competing against the locally produced Matich, Elfin and the NZ-built McRae cars. Chevrolet and the Repco Holden 5.0 Phillip Island litre V8 engines were the most popular and certainly the most successful power plants used in the F5000 era. Historics From 1971 to 1981 the Tasman Series continued to attract many European or quite a few years now the Back then the Tasman Series attracted and American drivers to the four-round Phillip Island Classic has been the the greats of F1 drivers of the era who Rothmans International Series in New Fmecca for the historic motor sport somehow found the idea of a couple of Zealand and the similarly four-round fraternity, be they competitors or the months of sunshine, motor racing and Tasman Series in Australia before the fans, regardless of their preference for the odd game of cricket in between races F5000 formula was replaced by Formula any particular class. Such is the standing in the southern hemisphere, far more Pacific and Formula Mondial. and popularity of this weekend of historic appealing than a cold winter off-season racing that the three-day event attracts at home in Europe. Despite F5000 no longer being the competitors and fans from near and primary open wheeler category in far, many coming from interstate and The Tasman Series gave resident Australia it remains a popular category overseas and this year was the same. As Australian drivers a rare opportunity to in both Australia and New Zealand with usual there were a few familiar names compete against the leading lights of the Tasman Revival Series running F5000 among the well subscribed entry list. F1 as well as an opportunity for them races in both countries. At this latest to acquire current F1-spec race cars. Phillip Island Classic meeting there were The series also gave local motor sport This year’s Phillip Island Classic fans an opportunity to see international celebrated 50 years of Formula 5000 F1 drivers in action with each round of so for many older fans the sound and the series attracting large spectator fury generated by 21 F5000 cars as numbers. One of my most vivid memories they thundered down Phillip Island’s pit of the Tasman era was watching a race- straight and around the circuit would long battle at Sandown in 1970 if memory have brought back many fond memories serves me between Jochen Rindt in a 3 of another and perhaps better era of Lotus 49 and Chris Amon in a 2.5 litre V6 Australian motor sport. Ferrari.
During the 1960’s the Tasman Series, Although F1 had switched to the new 3.0 run over four races in New Zealand litre engine capacity in 1966, the Tasman followed by four races in Australia, Series continued using the old 2.5 litre using the then current 2.5 litre F1 cars. engines with the international teams 4
5
36 26 21 F5000’s which must surely go a long which was only 1.7162 off the pace of Victorian Chris Blanden’s 2000 GTV way to convince any doubters that they Michael Byrne in the Lotus Seven who was damaged after an encounter with are a viable and popular category with grabbed pole with a 1:52.8137. Wilson- a wayward MG on the Sunday while the fans. Brown was the next fastest of the Alfas interstaters Matt Magraith and Spencer with Mike Oliver right on his rear bumper. Rice both had problems during Saturday’s As it has been in previous years qualifying When the F5000’s went out to strut their practice sessions. In Magraith’s case it for each of the 11 groups/categories on stuff in qualifying it was Thomas Tweedie was a head gasket problem in the 1750 the program and 11 races began on the in the Chevron who grabbed pole position GTV. The offending gasket was replaced Friday with 22 race and regularity events with a 1:26.9251, 0.7 seconds to the good in time for him to line up in the first race. on the Saturday and another 21 race of Tim Berryman in the Lola T332 with For Spencer Rice it was a diff problem and regularity events on the Sunday. Kiwi Andy Higgins in a similar Lola third which put paid to his weekend in the The regularity events were run over 15 fastest. usually reliable and always immaculate minutes while the races were usually 2000 GTV. Neil Choi had a fuel line come five lap duration, which on the Phillip In the sports cars it was hardly a surprise adrift in race four which effectively put an Island circuit is probably enough. Some to see the McLaren M8F of Jason White end to his race weekend. race categories had an extra lap for their setting the fastest lap in qualifying with outings on the Sunday afternoon. There a 1:35.8421. After all, in most instances The Phillip Island Classic weekend was, was certainly no shortage of entries having an 8.4 litre motor will surely as has been the norm for many years, with each of the 11 categories on the propel one around any race track faster its usual weekend of good historic motor weekend’s program well supported with than the opposition. racing, some of it close, some not so but full or near to full fields lining up for each still entertaining nevertheless; as well event. There were Alfa Romeos entered in As expected times set in practice set the as an opportunity to check out some Regularity, Group S and Group N events. pattern for the races over the weekend magnificent and in some instances old In qualifying for the under 3 litre historic with most who led the way during their race cars and there were many of them tourers category Martin Piercey from respective qualifying sessions also on this occasion. Of course there is WA was the best placed of the Alfas at showed the same form in the races. always the chance to catch up with old position eight with a 1:58.7928, four spots For the Alfa Romeo contingent it was a friends who one usually only sees at race ahead of Steve Byrnes from Sydney who weekend of mixed results. After being meetings like this. is a regular at this historic race meeting sidelined with a gear selection problem in each year. the 2000 GTV in race two on the Saturday, DiMauro was able to borrow a spare 1 Surely one of motor sports most relevant images In Group S (under 2 litre) qualifying, gearbox from fellow Alfa competitor – Mr Cool himself Steve McQueen and that memorable quote from a film. Adrian DiMauro was the fastest of the Paul Chaleyer and the gearbox swap 14 strong Alfa line-up with a 1:54.5299 was completed in time for him to line 2 Colin Connaughton had a bunched field close behind the Alfetta at Honda Corner. up at the rear of the grid for race three. The borrowed gearbox was obviously to 3 Paul Chaleyer, 105 Giulia. DiMauro’s liking as he managed to work 4 South Australian Dale Ashby gave the Montreal a his way through the traffic, eventually run in the Group S races. finishing second behind Byrne who 5 Matthew Magraith, 1750 GTV. dominated the class all weekend. 6 Chris Blanden, GTV 2000. 7 Two of Australian motor sports legends, Allan Moffat and Kevin Bartlett were kept busy during the poster signing session. 8 A spin at Siberia corner for Trevor McPherson in 7 the GT Veloce. 9 Julian Valmorbida, Giulia GT. 10 Phil Simmie, brought his lovely 1962 Giulia Sprint down from Queensland for a run in the Group S events. 11 With 8.4 litres of sheer horsepower on tap from the McLaren M8F, George Nakas streeted the 8 12 15 sports car field. 12 Despite a dnf in race two in the Saturday, Adrian DiMauro still had a very successful weekend with a series of second places in the Group S races. 13 Richard East 2000 GTV. 14 Stephen Callaghan, 2000 GTV, another of the Queensland contingent at Phillip Island. 9 13 16 15 Current V8 Supercar driver David Reynolds, had another of the legends of the sport, John French, alongside him, as he too was busy signing posters for the fans. 16 Trevor Montgomery, 1928 Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 17 Peter Strauss, Brabham BT31. 18 Nice to see a genuine Ferrari F1 car at Phillip Island. 10 14 17
11 18 37 2018 Melbourne F1 Grand Prix
he first race of the 2018 season weather driving skills. Lots of pace car car displays. Porsche, Lamborghini, saw the debut of the new look intrusions, running starts, yellow lights, Mercedes, Renault, Aston Martin and of TSauber team partnered with red brake lights through the mist and course, Alfa Romeo. The Alfa stand was Alfa Romeo. From Alfa’s perspective, strange illuminated car numbers behind prominent and nicely set up with four top a siggggnificant branding and marketing windscreens. of the rangge red cars on show. A Giulia opportunity, despite the engine actually Quadrifoglio, Giulietta Veloce, 4C and being a Ferrari offering. And fortunately, no major incidents Stelvio first edition. Wet ones. or flying wreckage. And speaking of And boy oh boy - the new livery on the two flying………. cars looked stunning on the track, with the over-sized red and white Alfa Romeo The Roulettes were obviously grounded emblem emblazoned over the engine because of the weather, but later thanks cover and the traditional Alfa Romeo to the fickle Melbourne weather the script clearly splashed across the back of stunning FA18 rocketed its way over the rear wing. the main straight in a jump-inducing, brown-trouser moment with an initial Alfisti rejoice - the Alfa brand is back in high speed fly-by catching everyone off- the ultimate motorsport! guard with the head-slamming barrage of sound following the jet a split second Sam Tartaglia and a couple of mates behind its awesome wake. joined me for the return to Albert Park. We chose to take to the track on the Wow! Seen it several times before, but it Saturday, usually the more eventful day still thrills with its expression of absolute of the four. Unfortunately it transpired to awesome power. Spine-tingling is be a little more eventful than anticipated, probably the best way to describe it. with incessant soaking rain all morning right through until after lunch! Some Back to the cars. In between action welcome respite arrived mid-afternoon on the track we trudged over sodden with sun and blue sky creating a ground to discover the manufacturers wonderful backdrop for the incredible FA18 display and qualifying for the F1’s at 1700 hours.
Still we stood sodden, soaked to the bone on an elevated spot near turn 3 and were instantly transfixed by the spectacle! First the Ferrari challenge, the GT series and the V8 supercars growled, snapped and thundered by in a procession of spray, sideways niggles, a few ‘offs’ and some great displays of wet
38 We asked the obvious question of the Alfa reps - where was the Sauber-Alfa Romeo merchandise? The sad answer - nothing available, not a thing at Albert Park. What a marketing opportunity missed! Many people were asking the same thing. Who wouldn’t want a cap proclaiming allegiance to the one of the greatest motorsport marques of all time? (No, not Sauber; Alfa Romeo!) Someone stuffed up big time!
Another GT owner-friend I caught up with later in the day, cashed up and having just returned to Oz from Hong Kong wanted a cap, a polo shirt, a jacket. Would have paid handsomely for the privilege. But left without anything but memories of the debut day for Alfa. Shame! He bought Red Bull stuff instead. Leclerc and Ericsson did ok, qualifying 17th and 18th on the starting grid (not Other displays around the posh last!). They were about three seconds grandstands along the straight included off the front runner’s pace, which the Army, historic cars (including a is respectable for a newly formed couple of lovely Alfa race cars from partnership with rookie drivers. the past), food and Heineken and team merchandise outlets by the dozen. Yep, Race day was enjoyed in front of the telly, it’s really all about sponsorship and with the remote almost burnt out flicking marketing. (Are you listening FCA?) between the footy (Melb-Geelong) and the race. A glorious day (bugger!) a good result with our friends at Ferrari successful, Hamilton a mopey sullen second and our boy Leclerc in the S-A finishing in 13th place. Not bad at all. And not last! Ericsson was a DNF, outed after four laps due to a hydraulic issue with the power steering (nb - not an engine problem). Oh, and our Aussie Ricciardo 4th (again!). He needs a drive with Mercedes or preferably Ferrari before he becomes world champ material. Has the talent, needs the right car. Mmmm, heard that before, isn’t that right Mr Weber.
Can’t wait until next year and a fine day at Albert Park! In the meantime keep a watch on the Sauber-Alfa team’s progress. I reckon they might surprise through the year and even gather some points here and there.
Let’s hope the FCA/Ferrari/Alfa Romeo/ Sauber-combined marketing machines The end of the day, now fine and sunny, kick in and pull their weight! Fans want to saw the return of the F1’s for qualifying. part with their ‘hard-earned’ to support I grabbed a couple of snaps from the last the brand. The white and red driver’s 2 turns before the straight seeing the jackets and team shirts are very smart two Sauber-Alfas circulate with apparent and deserve to be worn proudly by Alfisti consistency. They looked great, sounded and other supporters alike. great and I think made a mark on a lot of spectators, surprised and glad to see Forza, Alfa Romeo! that wonderful AR emblem back on a Formula One race car. By David Roberts
39 1
2
3
Awards Night
n keeping with what has become a Peter Shepard Trophyy - Brett Hayton special part of the April club night for his efforts in organising, attending or each year, the club’s perpetual awards representing the club at social events. I 4 and trophies for the 2017 competition year were presented with Club Patron AROCA Vic Perpetual Trophyy - Colin David Wright presenting the perpetual Edwards who topped the point scores for awards and Club Treasurer Alan Hopla attendance at club events. doing the honours with the competition trophies. This year the runners up in Associate Trophy - Tania Simpson who the competition categories were also scored the most points in cars other than presented with trophies. Alfa Romeos in competition events.
Perpetual Trophies: Most Supportive Business Trophyy - Alex Donnini for his support of the club and his Alec Mildren Trophyy - For the second hosting workshop visits by club members. year in succession, Adriano Di Mauro the club member scoring the most points in Group S or N at historic race meetings. Best Pre-1940 Alfa Romeo Ambassador - Peter Shepard R2 Racing Class 1300-1599cc - Winner, Terry Potter Trophyy - Peter Winter for Ray Pignataro - Runner Up, Andrew scoring the highest points for non-racing Competition Trophies: Carra class Alfa Romeos in club sprint events. S3 Standard Class 1600-1999cc - Winner, Cailum Choi - Runner Up, Damon Choi R3 Racing Class 1600-1999cc - Winner, Bob Gardiner Trophyy - Claude Botti, also Tony Raditsis - Runner Up, Paul Byrne for the second year in succession, for the S5 Standard Class 0ver 3000cc - Winner, highest points score for racing class Alfa Peter Winner - Runner Up, Bruce Cochrane R5 Racing Class 0ver 3000cc - Winner, Romeos in club sprint events. Claude Botti - Runner Up, Ivan Susigan M3 Modified Class 1600-1999cc - Winner, Brian Horman Trophyy - Russell Bieber Ed Genis - Runner Up, Allan Goodall A1 Associate Class up to 1999cc - Winner who contributed the best article in Cross Tania Simpson – Runner Up, Tom Bartley & Serpent during 2017 - The Journey Pt 1. M4 Modified Class 2000-2999cc - Winner, Tom Taylor - Runner Up, Ruwan A2 Associate Class over 2000cc - Winner, Ray Sharp Trophyy - Karen Murray who Perera Jason Erle - Runner Up, Joseph Maccora contributed to all facets of the club during 2017.
40 5 67 8910
11
1 Tony Raditsis. 2 Tania Simpson. 3 Russell Bieber. 4 Cailum Choi. 5 Peter Winter. 6 Claude Botti. 7 Alex Donnini . 8 Ivan Susigan. 9 Brett Hayton. 10 Bruce Cochrane. 11 Peter Shepard. 12 Karen Murray. 12
Also servicing other makes and models s C Restorations & Racingngng Modificationsons “AlfaAlf RomeoRomeo alwaysalwayalways with Heart” Heart” Contact:ct: Corradorradodo MauceriMauce 0412 818 597 9 Meriton Place, Clayton VicV 3168 SebastianSebebast Mauceri 0414 743 069 T. 9543 6466 F. 95439 4066 WeW keep your warranty in check with E. [email protected] and BMW’s topping the entry numbers Porsche day out and she was taking the long-term future of the Sandown with nine apiece and five MG’s and fewer Carrera Cup driver offer quite seriously. WPark circuit it currently stands numbers for the rest. Her best lap time was 2.8 second as the only race circuit in regular use faster than the next in the rung group, within the Melbourne metro area so One late entry that attracted a good deal Maimone’s 1:28.6541 in the R32 Nissan it is still a popular venue with many of interest was that of Leanne Tander with Payne third fastest with a 1:29.9761 competitors and mostly attracts good in a Porsche 911. Tander had been in the E30 BMW. competitor numbers. offered a one-off drive of the Ash Seward Motorsport’s Porsche 911 in the Carrera The second run group of 16 had one The club’s 2018 sprint series had kicked Cup series, in place of Alex Davison who Porsche and one Toyota 86 lining up off on a hot day at Broadford so it was a has other motor racing commitments. against 14 Alfas but it was Alan Pettett pleasant change, to head to Sandown for This being Tander’s first time behind the behind the wheel of the Porsche 911 who round two on a much cooler day. Entry wheel of a Carrera Cup car, obviously posted the fastest lap of 1:28.5666 for numbers were about the usual with 31 meant time behind the wheel to get used the group, narrowly ahead of Winterburn Alfas among a total entry list of 76. to the car and Sandown provided the in the Toyota 86 with Phil Baskett in the ideal opportunity. 156 GTA third fastest with a best lap of No big surprise that there was a good 1:28.9828. variety of entries with 14 different models Prior to moving to Australia Clive Massel represented in the 31-strong Alfa Romeo had a long involvement in motor racing in First outing for the jointly owned 156 GTA line-up and 16 different makes in the his native South Africa so, after acquiring had been at Phillip Island last November remaining 45 entries. a Giulia Super with competition history, with both Baskett and co-owner Bottcher he decided that Sandown would be the battling severe oversteer so the 156 GTA The line-up of Alfas ranged from 156’s ideal circuit for his first competition scored a new set of tyres for Sandown as in GTA and TS form, Alfetta’s in GTV and outing in the recent acquisition. a solution.. Did the new tyres solve the sedan guise, 147 GTA’s, a 33 and a Sud, oversteer problem? The smile on Phil’s to a few 105’s including a trio of Giulia In her first 10 minute timed session face and his comment that he had never Supers, a Mito, a twin spark-powered Leanne Tander managed a best lap of arrived into corners as fast as he had in Giulietta and a Ricciardi. The non-Alfa 1:25.6541 which suggested that this was this car said it all as he stepped from the line-up was equally varied with Mazda more than just a getting-to-know-the- car in the garage after the run.
23 42 Like many competitors, Peter Winter had wondered about the set-up of his 147 GTA so he offered Seby Mauceri a chance to get behind the wheel to check out the car on the track. Seby did so which produced a best lap of 1:31.3458 and a few suggestions on how the car’s performance could be improved.
Just as Phil Baskett had been smiling when he stepped from car after his earlier run, Evan Bottcher too was smiling as he emerged from the car after his first run, a run that produced a best lap of 1:29.6718, agreeing with co-owner Phil’s earlier comment that he too had never arrived at a corner as fast as he did in this car. The new tyres had obviously 4 also solved the understeer problem.
In the first round at Broadford in January Results Joe Sasso’s Giulia Super had a misfire Standard Alfa 1600-1999cc Racing Alfa 00-1599cc which he eventually traced to the rev limiter so the rev limiter was removed. 1st Damian Crea 1:44.8923 1st Ray Pignataro 1:38.5112 His first timed run at Sandown was 2nd Craig Cinquegrana 1:47.6839 2nd Michael Bugelly 1:39.4609 misfire free and saw him post a best lap time of 1:38.7239, which he gradually Standard Alfa over 3000cc Racing Alfa 1600-1999cc improved on during the day, finally 1st Chris Ralph 1:33.0373 1st John Floyd 1:33.1502 getting down to a 1:36.5649 as his best time of the day. 2nd Tim Bentley 1:33.9456 Twin Spark Cup 3rd Joe Sasso 1:36.5649 In what seems to be something of a 1st David Piciocchi 1:41.7672 pattern at these club sprint events those Racing Alfa 2000-2999cc that set the pace during the early runs Modified Alfa 1600-1999cc 1st Michael Newman 1:46.7624 usually, and perhaps more often than 1st Joe Falcone 1:41.2006 not, continued to lead the way during 2nd Liam Rodda 1:42.8069 subsequent outings. There were of Racing Alfa over 3000cc rd course a few changes to the placings in 3 Geoff Nelson 1:43.3330 1st Michael Botti 1:24.8011 some timed runs but in most instances 2nd Phil Baskett 1:26.9865 the status quo from early in the day Modified Alfa 2000-2999cc 3rd Patrick Latin 1:27.0402 usually prevailed. 1st John Rodda 1:37.8336 Associate Class under 2000cc In all bar one of his timed runs, Pettett Modified Alfa over 3000cc had been the fastest in the Porsche but 1st Stephen Zourkas 1:25.9257 1st Seby Mauceri 1:29.6094 when the run groups were combined nd nd 2 John Zourkas 1:30.5887 later in the day he was relegated to 2 Peter Winter 1:31.7100 3rd Michel Herlihy 1:33.0050 third behind the Subarus of Crocker and Zourkas. Racing Alfa 00-1599cc Associate over 2000cc 1st Ray Pignataro 1:38.5112 1st Leanne Tander 1:13.1754 2nd Michael Bugelly 1:39.4609 2nd Barrie Crocker 1:25.5900 3rd Alan Pettett 1:25.9013
1 Patrick Latin GTV6 leads Clive Massel Giulia Super. 2 Even Bottcher, 156 GTA. 3 The broken tailshaft tore through the transmission tunnel of the Alfetta. 4 The high tech fuel gauge on Vince Parisi’s 5 6 Morris Oxford. Another addition to Vince’s collection of old race cars. 7 8 5 Joe Falcone, Alfetta sedan. 6 John Winterburn, Toyota 86. 7 Patrick Latin, GTV6. 8 Chris Ralph, 147 GTA.
43 Although they were in different classes on the day Crocker and Zourkas were in the same run group and their day-long battle continued unabated throughout each timed run with little separating them each time they hit the track. Crocker finished the day with four fastest laps to Zourkas’ one.
With the exception of a couple of unscheduled interruptions the day the day followed the schedule. One of the interruptions was caused by an errant 9 BMW that had an off after cresting the rise at the end of the back straight and came to grief against the Armco. After her first run, which produced a The subsequent damage to the right best lap of 1:21.8491, Tander looked to front corner of the car was enough to be getting used to the Porsche with her immobilise the car which then required lap times dropping significantly each the recovery crew to retrieve that car and time she went out. Her second outing deliver it back to the pits. Scratch one produced a 1:20.7015 and then she really BMW E30. got serious with a 1:16.2905 in the third run, 1:14.8537 in the fourth, a slightly For Ivan and Darryl Susigan the day slower 1:15.9740 in the fifth and the ended early after the tailshaft in the fastest lap of the day, a 1:13.1754 on Sandown was, like the majority of club bright orange Alfetta snapped off a few her sixth run. Even with those lap times sprint events, a good day out for all centimetres back from the front donut. showing the difference in performance concerned, accept of course anyone who The broken section of tailshaft flailed between the Porsche and the rest she may have had misfortune strike. around, as they are want to do, and shared the track with, nowhere was the chewed its way through the transmission performance difference between the cars 9 Michael Salvatore, 3.2 GTV. tunnel in the process. David Piciocchi more evident than on Sandown’s back was another early retiree after the engine straight as the Porsche blasted pass the 10 Seby Mauceri had a run in Peter Winter’s bearings in the GTV cried enough. 147 GTA and was able to offer some rest. suggestions to Peter on what he can do to improve the car’s performance.
SHARE THE PASSION
“SHE WAS SO SWEET, SO PERFECT. STILL IS.”
The passion, the pride of ownership, the sheer emotional attachment – no one understands it better than Shannons. So when it comes to insurance for your special car, daily drive, bike or even your home, there’s only one person you should talk to - a fellow enthusiast at Shannons. So call Shannons for a quote on 13 46 46.
INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Limited is an authorised representative of Australian Alliance Insurance Company Limited, the issuer of this product. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement by calling 13 46 46. 44 and the makings of the wheel-arch flares over the rear wheels as well as anything else that was included in the previous owner’s plans to build up a sport sedan.
Vince has been on the lookout for a suitable donor car for a firewall and is also on the hunt for the parts for the left hand drive column gear shift and a left hand drive dashboard. He does acknowledge this it will be a long project.
As most fans of the marque would be aware ALFA is also widely known as an anagram for Always Looking For Another and Vince, being a dedicated fan of the marque, has just added a second Giulia Ti to his collection.
Like his earlier barn find this one has also been sitting under cover and unused for around 38 years. When Vince found Footnote to the the car it had lots of stuff in and on it, all of which had to be moved before the car emerged from its storage spot.
Unlike his barn find Vince’s latest Barn Find acquisition hasn’t been modified to the same degree so it won’t need anywhere Over the past few weeks Vince has cleaned near as much work to return the car to its an article about a very early Giulia out the three-decade collection of detritus former original state. TTi that that had spent the previous and, after a little prompting, fired the 30 years sitting unloved and untouched in Jaguar motor up. The long unused motor a shed in the Barossa Valley, until it was now starts easily, runs smoothly and rescued by club member Vince Parisi. sounds very strong, despite not having been fired up for many a long year. That article led to a few questions being raised about the origins of the car with So far Vince has resisted the temptation suggestions that it may well be the oldest to get behind the wheel and is planning surviving Giulia Ti in Australia. Club to remove the Jaguar motor and gearbox Patron David Wright, an acknowledged and then start the long process of expert on most if not all things Alfa restoring the car to its original left hand Romeo in Australia, had a look at the car drive, column shift, bench front seat and concluded that it may indeed be not state. just the oldest Giulia Ti in Australia but it is almost certainly one of the cars sent to Once the Jaguar motor and gearbox are Australia by Alfa Romeo late in 1963 for out of the way, the restoration will also 2 evaluation by the Lightburn Company in involve the removal of the engine mounts South Australia. created especially for the Jaguar motor 3
1 Vince’s first task will be to give the car a thorough going over inside and out to clean away 38 years of dust and grime from the body, the engine bay and the interior. 2 After 38 years stored under cover the car finally made it out in the open. 3 The boot and the roof of the car were both loaded with stuff, all of which had to be moved before the car could be transported to its new home.
1 45 Café Society Gathering A Motoring Adventure to the Sunday 13th May East of Melbourne Sunday 27th May Club members and visitors are invited to attend a breakfast gathering at Tiamo Coffee Restaurant in Carlton, organised by Attention all 105 Alfa owners and club members! Vintage and Classic Series Register Captain Ron Loccisano. 105 Series Register Captain Gary Pearce has organized a Sunday This breakfast gathering will be one of a number of similar events morning drive to the east of Melbourne that promises to be an planned for 2018 at this excellent eatery which is also a major adventure. All members are welcome. sponsor of the club. Time: 8.30 am for 9.00 am departure All club members and visitors are most welcome to attend and enjoy Where: McDonalds Rowville a pleasant Sunday morning breakfast with fellow club members. Cnr Fulham & Stud Roads, Rowville
Start time: 8.00 am sharp This promises to be a pleasant drive through the popular and very Location: Tiamo’s Coffee Restaurant scenic Dandenongs and will include a break to enjoy morning tea in 303-307 Lygon Street, Carlton the restaurant at the Mount Dandenong Lookout.
Free parking is available close to the venue and good food and a After the refreshment break the drive will then continue along great atmosphere is assured. scenic sealed roads through the Dandenong Ranges, on the way to the lunch venue in Warburton by midday. Bookings essential. There are a number of fine eateries in Warburton so participants Contact: Ron Loccisano may prefer to make their own arrangements for lunch. Mobile: 0418 565 700 Email: [email protected] Please confirm your interest to: Hope to see you all there on the morning. Contact: Gary Pearce Mobile: 0417 365 929 Email: [email protected]
Hope to see you all there on the morning.
Visit to the RAAF Museum Point Cook Sunday Morning Drive to Toolangi Sunday 17th June Sunday 24th June
For something a little different to the usual club outings, a visit has Invitation to owners of all 932 Series owners’ cars (156, GT, GTV and been arranged to the RAAF Museum at Point Cook which contains Spider, 166 and 147) as well as owners of any other Alfa Romeo and an amazing collection of aircraft that have contributed to the history their friends of course. Everyone is welcome. of the RAAF since its inception as the Australian Flying Corps which had its birthplace at Point Cook. Club VP, Sam Tartaglia, has come up with an entertaining drive that will start in Nunawading and finish at the Toolangi Tavern. The display ranges from replicas of a Bristol Boxkite and a Along the way the drive will take in Pheasant Creek, Flowerdale 1910 Deperdussin monoplane, to a Tiger Moth, a Vampire jet, and Glenburn, and maybe even a few other places that Sam has Supermarine Walrus, a Catalina flying boat, a Sabre jet, a F-4E discovered in the area. Phantom and a swing-wing F111, and so many more. There are a number of hangars to check out, all of which contain significant This drive will include a good variety of Alfa Romeo-friendly roads aircraft or memorabilia. and the very real possibility of venturing into some previously unexplored territory, at least to some club members anyway. At 1pm on Sundays (and Tuesdays and Thursdays) the museum conducts interactive flying displays involving the museum’s own Start time: 8.30 am for 9.00 am sharp Mustang, Winjeel, Tiger Moth, Sopwith Pup and sometimes aircraft BYO: Nunawading Alfa Romeo visiting from other museums. Once the flying display concludes the 432 Whitehorse Road,Nunawading, 3131 pilots are available to answer questions from spectators. Route instructions will be provided at the start. Start time: 9.00am for 9.30 departure Start point: LaManna Direct, Essendon Fields There will be a break in the journey at one of our favourite BYO: BYOFood and drinks (cold, hot or otherwise) refreshment spots - the ‘Flying Tarts’ Bakery in Pheasant Creek, where everyone will have the opportunity to enjoy a coffee, a snack Entry to the museum is free. There are picnic tables close to the and a pitstop and prepare themselves for the next stage of the drive. museum. There may even be a chance to display the Alfas close to the museum. Looking forward to having you join me for a day out Lunch will be at the popular Toolangi Tavern so bookings are essential. with a difference. Please RSVP by Friday 22nd June. Contact: Barry Edmunds Mobile: 0405 383 431 Email: [email protected] https://www.toolangitavern.com/menus Contact: Sam Tartaglia Mobile: 0459 542 070 Email: [email protected] Cuore Sportivo - Nagambie Weekend Friday July 6th (evening) to Sunday July 8th
Following the success of last year’s very successful Cuore Sportivo Further details will be provided closer to the date. weekend in the North East of the state, Ari Semertzidis has come up with a weekend tour that will take participants into Central Victoria; Contact Ari Semertzidis, 0407 714 418 or [email protected] around Nagambie. to confirm your attendance or to find out further details about the weekend. Don’t forget to advise Ari of any dietary requirements. Whether you are bringing along your brand new Giulia QV, your Stelvio or your classic 105, all Alfas are welcome, as long as you bring the beating heart of an Alfa Romeo with you so make sure you book in to enjoy what promises to be a great weekend.
Meet in Nagambie on the Friday night, or head to up on the Saturday morning, in time for the scheduled 9am departure.
Preliminary Plans
Friday: 6/7pm dinner in Nagambie (optional)
Saturday: Breakfast followed by a 9am start for a morning exploring the region. Following a break for lunch there will be more driving and more exploring during the afternoon, with pauses along the way before returning to Nagambie in time to freshen up before dinner.
Sunday: Breakfast, more driving and a late lunch. A dinner will be organised for those staying over on Sunday night.
Accommodation: Nagambie Motor Inn, 185 High Street, Nagambie VIC 3608 Phone: 03 5794 2833 | [email protected]
Rooms range from $130/night for a Queen Room, to a 2-bedroom suite for $200/night. The Nagambie Motor Inn will be holding a number of rooms just for “Alfa Romeo Club” members for the weekend.
Please ensure that you mention the club when booking your room. Alternatively, feel free to book at a location that is convenient for you.
Alfetta Display and Show ‘n Shine Saturday 21st July 2018
Claude Botti, Register Captain for the 116 and 160 Series Alfa Romeos, has organised an “Alfetta Display” and Show ‘n Shine event at his Pantry Fresh Deli in Clayton South.
An invitation is extended to all owners of Alfetta Sedans, Coupes (both 4 cylinder and V6 Busso), Alfa 90 and 75, SZ Coupes and RZ Spiders, including Twin Spark, to be part of this event.
All club members and/or owners of any of the above Alfa Romeos are welcome.
Entry to the Display and the Show ‘n Shine event is free but bookings are essential. There will be an award for the best entry in the Show ’n Shine competition. A variety of food will be available at the event.
Time: 3.00pm sharp Where: Pantry Fresh Deli 693 Clayton Rd, Clayton South
Trophy presentation: 5.00 pm
RSVP: Friday 20th July. Bookings are essential. Please provide membership details when booking.
Contact: Claude Botti Mobile: 0418 540 016 Email: [email protected] Become a Member in 3 easy steps
Step 1: Visit www.alfaclubvic.org.au Step 2: Click on Membership tab Step 3: Fill out your details and submit payment with Credit Card, Visa Debit Card or PayPal.
Who can become a member? Any person over the age of 18 who has an interest in or owns an Alfa Romeo car can apply for Membership of the Club. Any person included in a family membership, including children under 18. The club does have Associate Membership which is available to any person over the age of 18 who has an interest in Alfa Romeo cars but does not currently own or drive an Alfa Romeo car.
If you have any questions relating to membership, please contact the Membership Secretary at: [email protected] or 0415 266 903
Membership Fees Single Membership $80, Family Membership $95, Concession Membership $40 (all include GST) Concession Membership is available to holders of Pension Cards, Health Care Cards and Full Time Students. Evidence of eligibility for concession must accompany the application.
Attention Members – have you renewed your membership?
he membership renewal process has been moved online so to check Tif your membership is up todate, please check the expiry date on the reverse side of your club membership card, or log into your AROCA Vic - Membership Profile by visiting the Club’s website on:
www.alfaclubvic.org.au and click on Membership to access the Portal.
Club members who do not have a computer or access to online facilities will be contacted by telephone by the Membership Secretary to arrange for an alternative method of paying their membership fees.
If you have any queries about your membership or the renewal process, please call:
Oscar Amante – Membership Secretary Mobile: 0415 266 903 Email: [email protected]
48 Zagame Autobody Alfa Romeo Approved Collision Repairer
Zagame Autobody Uncompromising service begins with the question; Australia’s only Alfa Romeo “What more can we do for you?”. Approved Collision Repairer At Zagame Automotive, we have the perfect answer Zagame 24hr Emergency - a new Autobody experience. Assistance: Phone: 1300 000 ZAG (924) With our specialised expertise, extensive quality control, and exclusive use of genuine parts and Alfa Romeo Enquiries & Request a Quote: Approved repair procedures, your vehicle will be treated Phone: 03 9046 1499 to the very best in Alfa Romeo Certifi ed workmanship. Web: zag.com.au/autobody facebook.com/zagameautobody Awarded the 2016 National Best Panel Shop, our state- of-the-art facility will provide you with unparalleled commitment to exceptional refi nishing quality - a level of expertise never before experienced in Australia.
For all enquiries, contact Zagame Autobody today.
Zagame Autobody understands that you drive no ordinary car. That’s why you deserve no ordinary service. ALFA ROMEO DEALER BEST DRESSED OF THE YEAR AND RACE READY 2017 Grand Prix Limited Edition Giulia. Only 18 available, exclusive to Zagame.
FROM
$63,990 DRIVEAWAY*
• CARBON FIBRE GEAR SHIFTER • CARBON FIBRE ILLUMINATED DOOR SILLS AND DOOR PROJECTOR • CARBON FIBRE FRONT GRILLE • BRONZE OR SILVER PAINTED ALLOYS WITH MATCHING SIDE MIRRORS • LIMITED EDITION DECAL (GRAND PRIX LIMITED EDITION 1 OF 18) • STAINLESS STEEL SPORTS EXHAUST SYSTEM
ALFA ROMEO GIULIA
ZAGAME ALFA ROMEO 348 SWAN STREET RICHMOND | (03) 8354 1844 | ZAG.COM.AU/ALFAROMEO
Limited edition Grand Prix Giulia models include Carbon Fibre Grille, Bronze or Silver mirror Covers, Carbon Fibre Gear Shifter Cover, Door Projector Lights and Door Sill Guards, Limited Edition Decal 1- 18 and stainless steel sports exhaust system. Only available on 18 vehicles. *From $63,990 drive away for Alfa Romeo new Giulia 147kw Automatic Stock number N35420. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Offer available at Zagame Alfa Romeo Richmond only while stocks last. LMCT 9479.