Ap Eagers Centenary 1913 – 2013

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AP EAGERS CENTENARY 1913 – 2013

Carolyn Nolan

Edited by Dennis Hull

AP Eagers Limited 2013 Published by A.P. Eagers Limited PO Box 199, Fortitude Valley Brisbane Queensland 4006 www.apeagers.com.au

This book is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review, as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved.

ISBN 978-0-646-90221-0 Enquiries should be made to A.P. Eagers Limited

Created by Prodigy+, 320 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, Queensland 4000 www.prodigyplus.com

Printed in Australia by PR Print. www.prprint.com.au CONTENTS

FOREWORD iii

1 EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 1913 – 1917 1

2 THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 1917 – 1929 37

3 THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 1930 – 1944 75

4 DYNASTIC CHANGE 1945 – 1957 125

5 A PUBLIC COMPANY 1957 – 1972 147

6 SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 1973 – 1991 173

7 PIPER AT THE GATES 1991 – 2000 191

8 AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 2000 – 2013 211

Acknowledgements 250

Bibliography 252

Index 253 FOREWORD

Crowds flock to see Fred Eager and Whitey in Toowoomba on 5 July 1918 after his attempt to set a new record from Brisbane. From the Treasury Building to the Toowoomba Post Office took 2 hours 7½ minutes, the time recorded by a watch in a sealed packet carried by the driver and opened on arrival. Even by then the 1912 Overland had over 140,000 miles on the clock. At centre right, in a flat cap, is Wally Webb, Fred Eager’s constant offsider and expert motor mechanic. foreword iii

FOREWORD

It was just over 100 years ago when Edward Eager with his wife It has been a daunting task for the author to draw together all Medora and son Frederic journeyed to Australia to start a new life. the threads of the group’s life and record them in this book. It is IIn the early days of the automotive industry, they set in motion not easy to discover people with the capacity and willingness to a chain of events, starting with a single business in Brisbane, undertake and complete such a project. We were fortunate to have that has led to the existence today of a sizable Queensland-based found the book’s author Carolyn Nolan and editor Dennis Hull, group of companies with substantial trading operations and other our former Company Secretary – high calibre people with the interests throughout Australia. expertise, knowledge and time to produce this book.

This book is both a record and a celebration of the history and Congratulations to the AP Eagers group on an outstanding achievements of the AP Eagers group of companies. It identifies first hundred years! I hope all who read this book will find it as many of the key contributors to the group’s growth over the past interesting and satisfying as I have. 100 years and it captures significant milestones achieved and also obstacles faced. It cannot of course be all embracing in every detail and some readers may find a record of their particular interest missing from these pages. I believe this book is, however, an accurate depiction of the stages in the development of the group and will give all who read it a clear picture of events that have shaped the group to its current dimensions. Benjamin Wickham Macdonald AM FAICD This story is one of human endeavour, crowned with success, Chairman, AP Eagers Limited and reflects an important part of the history of the car and truck industry in Queensland and Australia. 7 January 2013 It should not be overlooked that this story is about people. It is their individual dedication, skill and commitment and their foresight and willingness to respond to challenges as times have changed, that have contributed to the success of the AP Eagers group. Moreover, I believe the group’s continuing prosperity will depend more than ever upon the ability of our people and other stakeholders to work together as a loyal team – loyal to each other, loyal to their dealerships and loyal to the group as a whole. iv A DRIVING FORCE

The following lines were penned Overlands First Because Overlands Last by an enthusiast who knew what Tit meant to own an “Overland.” We don’t hold ourselves responsible for metre or rhyme Are you thinking of buying an automobile, but the sentiment’s right. And And have the pleasure of sitting behind the wheel? he must have been a man of discrimination in motor matters There are autos and there are autos of every kind, – for he chose an “Overland.” And to make the right choice you must bear in mind, (Steering Wheel, October 1915) That other people have made mistakes in the past;

Then select “Overlands First Because Overlands Last.”

Some look at cut prices, others look at the car,

But if you get the cut price it isn’t worth par;

There's something wrong with the car, or with the man,

For selling his product, on a cut-price plan.

If you want to go slow, or if you want to go fast,

Don’t forget: “Overlands First Because Overlands Last.”

John Willys puts the price on the Overland car,

And it's sold at that price both near and far.

Larger value in an auto cannot be found −

To convince yourself, just look around.

Future service and quality same as the past,

Hence, “Overlands First Because Overlands Last.” chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 1

chapter one

EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND (1913–1917) Establishment of E.G. Eager & Son Limited. Belief in the future of Queensland motoring. Progress up to the death of Edward Eager in 1917. 2 A DRIVING FORCE

EAGERS IS A NAME well-known to all who pass the extensive site facing Breakfast Creek Road, at Newstead, Brisbane. It is in the Eheart of one of the areas of the city undergoing urban renewal, as residential areas take over from industry. This is a valuable strip of land situated between the Brisbane River and the major arterial road to the northern suburbs and the airports. In 1992 Eagers merged with the AP Group Ltd, a company founded by Alan Piper. Today AP Eagers Limited is Australia’s second largest listed automotive retail group.

Edward George Eager, an American from Ohio, chose this site for his ﬁrm in 1912, and there Eagers has remained ﬁrmly in the public eye. Different generations of buyers have associated this Company with various makes of cars such as Overlands, Willys Knights, Whippets, Pontiacs, Buicks, Vauxhalls, and especially with Holdens. More recently the list has included Audis, Volkswagens and Land Rovers and, in the centenary year, 29 car brands, as well as 12 bus and truck brands.

For most of the twentieth century, in Brisbane and throughout Queensland and for many years in the Northern Districts of New South Wales, loyal and cohesive staff under ﬁrm but caring management have seen the expansion of an enterprise that dates back to the earliest days of motoring.

The founder, Edward George Eager, had come to Australia as the representative of the Overland Company. He explained his business intentions in an interview with The Australian Motorist in September 1911: Well, in the year 1909 I was investigating the automobile business The cigar-smoking businessman from Ohio, E.G. Eager soon made his for one of the leading manufacturers in the States, and, having name a household word in Queensland. Four years after he arrived as been in the motor car business almost from its inception in one a representative for the Willys Overland Company he was featured in way and another, principally selling tyres and accessories to large Queenslanders as we see ‘em, published by the Newspaper Cartoonists’ Association of Queensland in 1916. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111248) dealers, I saw that the conditions were ripe for a good American car that would stand the road conditions throughout Australasia, and could be sold at a fair price to bring it within reach of people of moderate means. Upon my return to the States the Willys Overland Company had purchased the largest and ﬁnest equipped motor concern then in U.S.A., one that had never made anything under 5000 dollar cars, in Toledo, Ohio, this being my native city. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 3

I investigated all the leading makes on the market carefully, taking the advice of ten of my motor expert friends, who are in the business, with the view to selecting a car which embodied all the features for Australian conditions, both as to price and quality. The Eager party visiting the Sphinx in I may say without fear of dispute I was offered several makes, but January 1911, featured on the front cover of the motoring journal Steering that the special features of the Overland, especially its cylinders cast Wheel in February 1915. E.G. Eager separately, five bearing crank shaft, three point suspension, thermo is on the extreme right. The group syphon, dual magneto ignition, crucible steel housing for differential includes Mrs E.G. Eager, Mrs McIntyre gears, with the reputation they had already obtained in its two and Miss Jean McIntyre of Winnipeg, Canada, also the family of Mr. Gabriel, years of existence, having placed it in the front rank. I selected the the Overland agent in Egypt, the Overland as being most suitable for Australian conditions. tall figure on the left with the turban. Readers of the journal, which had been E.G. Eager selected an early demonstration Overland car from launched by Eagers themselves the the factory, shipped it on a steamer, and booked a passage for previous October, were told that the photograph was unique ‘for the reason Australasia. After the car was well received in New Zealand, he that these “Overlands” were the first two was to find that the merits of Overlands were quickly appreciated cars – indeed the only ones – ever to in Australia, and he returned to Toledo. A month later he left reach the base of the Sphinx.’ for Egypt with sample cars, and there this pioneer of the motor industry established an agency, Gabriel Bros., Alexandria, Cairo. He described his part in history to the Queensland public in 1915: I went to the base of the Sphinx, where no other cars have attempted to go, because of the deep sandy nature of the country. We had to lay boards to help us through the sand: these split upon receiving the weight of the car, and formed a kind of trough to help us out. This was the first time any car has been to the base of the Sphinx. Four other cars have gone to the bank, 30 feet above, but no cars have gone below, and 40 and 60 h.p. cars have had to be hauled with ropes. Whilst In fact, my return visit has been one triumphal procession, far we were there Mrs. Eager noticed the Sphinx wink. Although exceeding my most sanguine expectations, and I now return to this has been in existence upwards of 3000 years, this is the the United States with the largest orders for cars that has ever first occasion on which the silence of the surroundings has come out of Australia and New Zealand. been disturbed by the sound of a petrol engine. A notice in The Australian Motorist in November 1911 informed From Egypt I went round the East, across to Africa; four cars were readers that Mr E.G. Eager, the Overland Company’s representative, waiting in Durban. I had no trouble in placing an order for 50 was en route to Australia per S.S. Aorangi. His intention was to cars in Johannesburg, and another agency in Capetown, covering the agency for that territory. From Capetown I went direct to make his headquarters in Melbourne, for the purpose of Hobart, through New Zealand, back to Melbourne. I found that furthering the interests of Overland cars. Intensive advertising in every agent had far exceeded the contracts, and agents have, every the Queensland press in early 1912 told prospective buyers that one, doubled their orders for the coming season. After leaving E.G. Eager represented the Willys-Overland Company and that New Zealand I visited Sydney, only to again find that the glowing Evers Bros., Queen Street Garage, Petrie Bight, were the appointed reports from N.Z. were repeated in Sydney and in Melbourne. agents for the Brisbane district, with samples on display. 4 A DRIVING FORCE

Choice of motors available included the Overland Model 59 T, a ﬁve passenger, 30 horsepower tourer for £355, and a 59 R two passenger Torpedo Roadster Body and Large Luggage Box for £325. Undoubtedly rapid expansion of business was anticipated with the announcement: ‘Agents wanted in every district in Queensland.’ In May 1912 readers of the Daily Mail learnt that Overland agents had been appointed in Charleville, Rockhampton, Winton, Townsville and Toowoomba, and yet more were required.

The Daily Mail in 1912 informed interested parties that the Overland representative in Australia, Mr E.G. Eager ‘has his Queensland headquarters at Evers Bros. garage, Petrie Bight’. In an interview with them, E.G. Eager, styled as the representative in Australasia of the Willys Motor Car Co of Toledo, Ohio, USA, said his special business in Brisbane was the introduction of the Overland car, and that he was establishing agents throughout Queensland. He told them that in the southern states and in New Zealand there were now over 1,100 cars running which he had introduced during the 15 months that had elapsed from the time of his ﬁrst shipment. So far the car had not been introduced into Queensland as it had not been possible to get enough cars from the factory to ﬁll Advertisement from Brisbane’s Daily Mail, 17 April 1912, introducing E.G. Eager. Perhaps ‘fore-door’ is a misspelling the orders of the southern states, but new arrangements for ‘four-door’. had now been made, to enable prompt deliveries to be made in Queensland through the local agents, Evers Bros., Petrie Bight.

E.G. Eager assured the public that the Overland car was noted especially for its strength and durability. The cylinders were cast separately, the wheels were of exceptional strength, the tyres were, as he told them, ‘large, powerful and easily untired [changed]’, attributes which should make the cars suitable for Queensland conditions. There was a wide assortment of bodies, Advertisement from Brisbane’s Daily Mail, 4 May 1912. equipment, and ﬁnish and the price for the car in Queensland was to be lower than that charged in the southern states. It was E.G. Eager’s ambition to open up small agencies for the car ‘in every district of the State’. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 5

At the Willys-Overland Co’s plant at Toledo there was not a side- Brisbane in time for the Exhibition where he could be expected to track in the vicinity big enough to hold the train that had been made do good business, and to meet many of the friends he had made up to carry a huge shipment of Overland cars that were destined for on his recent trip through western Queensland. Evers Bros was foreign lands. It was the largest foreign shipment ever handled in one one of many Brisbane firms occupying five large, special stands train load and required 30 flat cars in a special train to carry the 90 of motor exhibits at the Show that year. Their display featured ‘Overlands’ from Toledo to New York. Over 30 of these were destined different models of the Overland touring car, ‘equipped with self- for Australia and the president of the company, John N. Willys said starting devices, and also a 1912 model of the popular Hupmobile that the shipment was only the first of a series of big shipments which cars’. Then Eager was off to New Zealand, to meet members of his would be made to nearly every civilised country at that time. family on their way back from Toledo, USA.

E.G. Eager, accompanied by his son, Frederic Zina Eager, went down Already, in Brisbane this family had become a part of the business to Sydney in June to arrange for the large shipment of Overlands life of the city and a photograph in the Queenslander in November to be brought up to Queensland. There were six different models, 1912 shows that ‘hospital tag day’ had benefited from being lent ranging from 30 to 45 h.p., fitted with all the latest improvements, motor cars for the day by ‘Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son’, a tradition and all with the famous sleeve valve engine, known for its ‘Luxurious of benevolence very much part of the American way of life, that Silence’ and great power. Edward Eager set sail for America with the was to continue in the way the firm operated. foundation of his business securely established, leaving his son in Brisbane to be acting-representative in Australia for the Overland cars. A special feature of the 45 h.p. Overland is the prestolite tank with which it is fitted. The tank is a new invention which enables Meanwhile H.H. Evers of Evers Bros., Petrie Bight took a sample a motorist to start the car without the aid of the starting handle 30 h.p. latest model Overland car to the Bundaberg show, where it and also enables him to light his lamps with the greatest ease. was very much admired. This wonderful motor was equipped with hood, wind screen, acetylene head lights, generator, pump, jack, and kit of tools and was sold for £355 to Mr Penny of Millbank on the first day on which it was exhibited. News spread throughout the far flung districts of Queensland and within a month four cars had been ordered for the Longreach district. Apparently a good season had assured prosperity in the West.

During the next few months, as more Overlands were unloaded in Sydney and the rains continued to fall in Queensland, Fred Eager found purchasers in the western and central districts and had high expectations of continuing business as soon as the roads became passable again. Delighted buyers, such as F.W. Bode, of Winton, found the car gave complete satisfaction. The excellent cooling arrangement had earned it a reputation as ‘the car that uses no water’, which surely must have been a big advantage considering the enormous distances to be covered in rural Queensland.

August is ‘Showtime’ in Brisbane when the country meets the city at the ‘Ekka’, and in 1912, Fred Eager, after landing yet another large shipment of Overland cars, made arrangements to return to

Edward George Eager is driving, with his only son Frederic Zina Eager beside him, in the new 1912 model, 30 h.p. Overland. The photograph appeared in the Australian Motorist, on New Year’s Day 1912, captioned ‘Mr. E.G. Eager and Son’. 6 A DRIVING FORCE

The firm of E.G. Eager & Son Limited was registered as a Limited Liability Company on 7 January 1913: ‘to acquire and take over and carry on as a going concern this Motor business, with a paid-up capital of £15,000 with its registered office 299 Adelaide Street’. Edward George Eager was the first Chairman of Directors, and his son Frederic Zina Eager was appointed Managing Director.

The Daily Mail reported that Messrs E.G. Eager & Son Ltd had settled down now in the new garage in Adelaide Street. They had bought Alfred Shaw’s bulk stores, next door to the Continental Tire Company, and would be one of the first up-to-date garages in Queensland. Here Edward Eager established a branch sales and service room, to be the Australasian headquarters for Overland. A large stock of spare parts was purchased and the various models of Overland cars soon filled the show-room. ‘I am very pleased to be back in Brisbane,’ said Mr Eager, ‘this Nurses and children time I have brought my family with me, for I expect to make collected over £70 on what was billed as this our headquarters. I am very pleased with the results obtained ‘hospital tag day’ in in Queensland for the short time that I have been here, and I November 1912. expect to increase the Overland sales materially during the coming Motor cars were lent season. I feel that in Queensland the sales of motor cars will for the day by Messrs. increase each year for a great many years to come and I expect E.G. Eager and Son. that the Overland cars will get a percentage of the benefit of that (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125907) increase.’ (Daily Mail, 21 March 1913)

The Daily Mail on 22 January 1913 reported: Yesterday I had a chat with Mr. E.G. Eager, of Messrs. E.G. Eager and son Ltd., representatives in Australasia for Overland cars. He has just returned to Brisbane from a Southern trip, the itinerary of which included Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Melbourne, and Sydney. He says that the sales of the better class continental and American cars in the South have been most satisfactory to the agents controlling the lines. It appears to be well-known in the South that there are from 25 to 35 different makes of American cars on the market, and as many of the small and recently established factories have failed, or have gone out of business, or are in the hands of the creditors or receivers at the present time, prospective buyers of American cars are exercising more care in the selection of a vehicle, and as a result the old established American ﬁrms whose products have been on Frederic Z. Eager from Queenslanders as we see ‘em, the market many years, and will bear the most thorough Brisbane, 1916. As was his investigation, are beneﬁting by the state of the market. father he was a member of the Automobile Club and of the Queensland Turf Club. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111247) chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 7

The British and American motor journals in commenting on the position have cited the fact that so many manufacturers have been forced out of business, and hold that there will be many more in the near future. Mr. Eager said that the larger American manufacturers have increased their manufacturing facilities rapidly, and as they are making practically every part of their car, hundreds of small assemblies will be forced to discontinue operations sooner or later. The Willys-Overland Co. has increased its output from 370 cars in 1908 to 40,000 in 1913, and it is claimed that it makes more Overland cars and parts for other makes of cars than any manufacturer of motor cars in the world. It is the only large company in the U.S.A. that has no branches, all of its business being done through its agents, but as Mr. Eager represents the ﬁrm in Australasia, he has established a branch sales and service room in Adelaide-street, Brisbane, which will be the Australasian headquarters.

The earliest records of the Company show that the first meeting of Directors of E.G. Eager & Son Ltd was held at the offices of Chambers McNab & McNab, 30 Adelaide St, Brisbane on 31 January 1913. Present were Directors E.G. Eager and his son F.Z. Eager, William James Trotter, from Chambers McNab & McNab who had been appointed solicitors to the Company, and J.J. Macfarlane whose firm G.S. Hutton & Macfarlane would be the long standing Company auditors.

Fred Eager was appointed Chairman of the meeting. It was reported that the Company had been duly incorporated and the Certiﬁcate of Incorporation and a print of the Memorandum and Articles of Association as registered were produced. Fred Eager was to be Managing Director for one year at a salary to be determined. Maurice Vincent Horen of Brisbane was appointed Secretary, and the Company’s bankers, the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney Ltd were to be requested to ‘honor all cheques bills of Exchange and promissory notes signed drawn accepted made or endorsed for and on behalf of the Company’. The registered ofﬁce of the Company was to be 299 Adelaide Street Brisbane.

A Seal for the Company ordered on its behalf was produced and approved and it was resolved that such Seal be adopted as the Common Seal of the Company. A Script Certiﬁcate Book was produced and it was resolved that the Secretary order such other books as may be necessary for the purpose of the Company. Subscribers to the Company’s Memorandum of Association were to be registered as shareholders in the register of members of the Company. The meeting was adjourned pending the ﬁling of the Agreement with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies. When it resumed, 15,000 £1 shares were allotted: Edward George Eager was to have 10,000 shares numbered 1 to 10,000 inclusive, and F.Z. Eager 5,000 shares, numbers 10,001 to 15,000 inclusive.

Certiﬁcate of Registration conﬁrming that E.G. Eager & Son Limited registered as a company on 7 January 1913. The Company seal. Documents could now be signed, sealed and delivered. 8 A DRIVING FORCE

The Common Seal of E.G. Eager & Son after its conversion to a Pty. Ltd. company in 1942.

E.G. Eager & Son, Minute Book for 1913. Hand written record from 1914.

One share in the Capital of the Company of £1 each was allotted selected by the manager of the company, J.S. Badger (a leading to the subscribers: figure in transport in Brisbane, where the trams were referred to as ‘Badgers’) in consultation with the engineer, Mr Gordon. Edward George Eager Share numbered 15,001 Medora Josephine Eager “ 15,002 Other cars were sent to the country districts, including Longreach. Orders were already filled for the additional cars expected to arrive Frederic Zina Eager “ 15,003 in Brisbane on the steamers Kandefels, Katana and Kazemba. By William James Trotter “ 15,004 March 1913 it was the turn of Fred Eager to visit the Willys- Dudley Alexander McNab “ 15,005 Overland motor factory in Toledo, Ohio, leaving his father in Brisbane at the helm of the organisation. James Cockburn Roberts “ 15,006 William Davis “ 15,007 It is interesting to see the Eagers connection with the Automobile Club of Queensland, the forerunner to the Royal Automobile Club of Eagers, as the firm of E.G. Eager and Son Limited has been termed Queensland (RACQ). When this body organised a charitable occasion since those early days of its inception in 1913, had a flourishing Eagers was among those members who lent cars for the occasion. business as the sole agents in Queensland for the Overland cars. Just on 350 children enjoyed a happy lift through the kindness How to meet the demand was their difficulty. Among their first of the Automobile Club of Queensland. This body had from purchasers was the Brisbane Tramways Co Ltd which purchased a its numbers provided 39 cars, and these assembled at the Public 30 h.p. Overland car for use in connection with its business, one Library, William-street, at 2 o’clock. ... A three-quarter’s of an chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 9

hour’s run along a good road brought them to their rendezvous. There was to be a Motor Gymkhana, to be held at the Exhibition ... After packing up, the order for “all aboard” was given, and Grounds on 10 October 1914. The weekly journal, the the cars with their loads filed through the gateway where willing Queenslander advertised the worthy cause accordingly and listed hands gave each child a toy, rubber ball, bon-bon, and bag of the influential patrons: lollies; and then home, which was reached about 5.30 after probably the best of the club’s outings ever held. The whole The whole of the prizes, to the value of £60 odd, are being affair reflects the greatest credit on the club. subscribed by the trade, the Q.C.A. will bear all the incidental expenses, and in the carrying out of the work they are receiving A flourishing advertising department at Eagers ensured that the whole-hearted support and co-operation of the Motor Cycle the motoring public was apprised of advances in the industry. Club. The whole of the proceeds go to the Patriotic Fund. Marlay Hadgraft is remembered as one who was particularly His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor (Sir Arthur Morgan), skilled in this kind of work. Large and artistic advertisements the Chief Justice (Sir Pope Cooper, K.C.M.G.), his worship were prepared to catch the reader’s eye, and showed him, or Alderman C.M. Jenkinson (Mayor of Brisbane), and Colonel her, just what was on offer at 299 Adelaide Street, Brisbane. Geo. L. Lee, D.S.O. (Commandant) have given their patronage Female as well as male drivers appeared behind the steering- and will be present. Stewards include Sir David Hardie, M.D., Hon. T.C. Beirne, M.L.C., Hon. Dr. Marks, M.L.C., wheels in these advertisements, and innovations such as the Hon. John Murray, A.E. Beal, E.G. Eager, James Howard, electric starter must have instilled confidence in many a S.R. Lough, and A.D. Walsh. prospective female purchaser, who may not have relished the thought of cranking up her motor in public but could see the great independence having her own car would bring.

In December 1913 Maurice V. Horen, the present Secretary, was appointed Assistant Manager, ranking next to Managing Director and Robert Dutton was appointed Secretary. The Local Government Journal of 24 July 1914 shows a tender accepted for the erection of a motor garage etc at Rockhampton for Eager & Sons Ltd, from W.C. Voller, Architect and Geo. E. Day, Builder, for £1500 and another tender accepted for the erection of additional workshops, stores etc for Eager & Sons Ltd, from the same architect and builder, for £1400.

Those who did not want the considerable expense of a car could Advertisement from Brisbane’s Daily Mail, consider hiring one from Eagers, and soon be seen spinning along 10 October 1914, for a patriotic motor with the best of them. A visit to Eagers was an opportunity to be gymkhana held at the time of the ﬁrst World taken ‘for a run’ in an Overland or you could take up their offer: War. Cars were taking over from horses, but much of the terminology remained. ‘May we send a representative to take you for a trial spin?’

In those early days of motoring the parallels with the then fast disappearing era of the horse are evident. Chauffeurs appeared in the early illustrations clad in cloth caps, motoring goggles to cope with the wind factor, hacking jackets and jodhpurs, with highly polished leather boots and leggings reminiscent of Toad from The Wind in the Willows which had been published in 1908. Advertisement from the Brisbane Courier, 28 May 1913. 10 A DRIVING FORCE

Brisbane Courier, 27 April 1914. Brisbane Courier, 25 May 1914. Brisbane Courier, 8 June 1914.

Brisbane Courier, 18 May 1914. Brisbane Courier, 5 May 1914. Brisbane Courier, 13 April 1914. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 11

This would bring motoring firmly before the public, with such exciting events as ‘Musical Chairs for Cars’ and ‘Refreshment and Needle-Threading Race for Cars with Lady Competitor’ for which E.G. Eager lent his own motor. He was still firmly identified at this stage as ‘Mr. E.G. Eager of the Overland Motor Co.,’ in an account of the event in the Daily Mail the following day, one who had contributed handsomely to an impromptu auction of left- over sweets at the end of the day, an auction that had considerably contributed to the financial success of a day that had not attracted as many spectators as the event and the glorious weather had warranted. Fred Eager would seize the opportunity of another motor gymkhana in Toowoomba in early 1916, possibly to ensure that the family was seen as a vital part of the motoring world, and undoubtedly because motoring was a vital part of his make-up.

Another indication of motoring fever and the public interest was the introduction by Eagers of a monthly motoring journal, Steering Wheel, which described itself as ‘Born in October 1914’. Produced by the Steering Wheel Publishing Company, in Brisbane, at ﬁrst the sole shareholder in this was Eagers itself. Apparently it was one of Edward Eager’s pet schemes in 1914 and 1915. The rise in the Company’s proﬁle is evident by increasing prominence given to their advertisements, and to the motoring exploits of Fred Eager.

Wartime demonstrated the increasing importance of the motor. Steering Wheel made sure that its readers knew what was happening in wartime Britain, where firms such as Harrod’s had started tests of all available motor cars of American and English make, to take the place of those commandeered by the government, and had purchased a dozen Overland delivery wagons. After using the cars for more than a month the company showed their approval of the service given by a repeat order for nine more cars of the same make, as well as an order for a Willys-Utility truck. Chats with several of our leading handlers of motors in Brisbane have revealed the fact that any pessimism as to the immediate effects of the war on the motor trade in Queensland has been entirely removed. Cars are selling with a freedom that indicates the greatest confidence for the future, and in some cases the previous records for the months of December and January have been passed. (Queenslander, 6 February 1915)

Building at Breakfast Creek Road Newstead, at the corner of Evelyn Street was started in about 1913 and the Head Ofﬁce was established there. Note the large Overland sign above the entrance. (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125924] THE12 WA DRIVINGILLYS FORCE UTILITY TRUCK

Horses are acknowledged time-wasters. In a great many cases they actually block progress. To-day, on all sides, the aggressive business man has condemned them. Into their place has come the highly practical WILLYS UTILITY TRUCK. The Willys Utility Truck is the great time-saver. (Eagers Advertisement)

A Willys Utility Truck loading wood in the bush near Maryborough. (Steering Wheel, February 1915)

The image in the top left hand corner shows 299 Adelaide Street, General carriers, Pritchard & Company, with the wood loaded onto their Willys truck, where Eagers had their ﬁrst registered ofﬁce. The name features photographed outside Eagers’ Garage, Maryborough. (Steering Wheel, February 1915) prominently around the archway. (Steering Wheel, January 1915) chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 13

QUEENSLAND FIGURES FOR 1914 A RECORD. Notwithstanding the general disruption of business owing to the Great European struggle, which has affected all businesses throughout the world, it is a signiﬁcant fact that, at least in so far as Queensland is concerned, the State has the distinction of being in a happy position, in regard to its domestic trade, in relation to the other States of the Commonwealth. Queensland, instead of sharing the great depression which is being so severely felt elsewhere in the motor car trade, enjoyed continued prosperity, and this is reﬂected in the fact that the motor car sales in our State for 1914, instead of showing a shrinkage, as was generally expected, actually established a record sales for the year amounting to 1200 motor cars. Of this number no fewer than 413 were Ford cars. (Queenslander, 20 February 1915)

THE REBUILT CAR A new phenomenon in the industry was the ‘Rebuilt Car’, quickly capitalized on by Eagers, not only in Brisbane but also at their other branches. B.D. Graham, the manager of the Rockhampton branch and George Barrett, manager of the Maryborough branch must have seen new business opportunities open to them, even if the economic drain of war had caused a temporary lull in their business. These Rebuilt cars carried the Eagers’ guarantee as if they were new stock.

Men Who Manage. Mr. Geo. Barrett, Maryborough. The Maryborough Branch was opened less than nine months ago. Through that period it has been entrusted to Messrs. Geo. and Lionel Barrett to build up in Maryborough the reputation for service. That they have succeeded can be vouched for by every Overland owner in that district – also by the fast increasing number of Overlands going to owners in Maryborough and the country around. Mr B.D. Graham, Rockhampton. Just twelve months ago the Rockhampton Branch was established, and three months later the management was put in Mr. Graham’s The Steering Wheel, ﬁrst published in Brisbane by Eagers in 1915. hands. As in Maryborough so in Rockhampton. Every month adds considerably to the total of Overland owners there. The features of the 1915 Overland make these Managers’ work easier. (Steering Wheel, May 1915) 14 A DRIVING FORCE

A prominent Brisbane owner of an Overland, noted medico Sir David Hardie, seen here in his Roadster with the hood down. The car is ﬁtted with the ‘new’ electric lights c.1914. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND)

Advertisement for a Willys Utility Truck from the Maryborough Chronicle, 3 September 1914. It appeared on the front page A “Rebuilt” car is almost like a NEW car – all worn parts are of the paper for several months. replaced, the body is renewed and modernised, and the whole car repainted in our own dust-proof shops. IT CARRIES THE EAGERS’ GUARANTEE just the same as a new car. E.G. Eager & Son, 299 Adelaide Street, Brisbane. Also Maryborough and Rockhampton. (Eagers Advertisement for ‘Rebuilt’ Cars in Steering Wheel, January 1915.) I have to sincerely thank you for your kindness and square treatment to me whilst in Brisbane. The “Rebuilt” car which I purchased from your ﬁrm is a champion. She took us home safely, and negotiated the Little Liverpool Range, although the roads were very boggy after a heavy shower of rain; and to my surprise she did those hills without boiling. I have been 200 miles in the Car since I bought her, and she has behaved as a brand new car – perhaps even better. There are many admirers here, and she has been taken for a new Car. (Extract from a letter to Eagers, dated 4 July 1915, from a Gatton purchaser of a Rebuilt car.)

Company records show that by early 1915 Eagers changed from the Commercial Banking Co. of Sydney to the Commonwealth Bank of Australia as they offered a better return for the account. The freehold properties were to be mortgaged as security.

Advertisement from the Brisbane Courier, 1 November 1913. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 15

By February 1915 Fred Eager was back in Brisbane ‘looking fresh as usual, and tingling for business’, bringing with him R.W. Fontaine, Willys-Overland special representative, accompanied by Mrs Fontaine. The Fontaines had taken a residence in Brisbane for some months and he would accompany Fred Eager on a visit to the various Willys-Overland agents throughout Australia and New Zealand. ‘Mr. Fred Eager’s speedster is being tuned. This usually indicates a trans-Australian trip which will be made this time in company with Mr. Fontaine, Willys-Overland Special representative.’

Steering Wheel spoke to Fred Eager about the great New York Automobile Show, which he had visited recently, and of which he said: ‘The Willys-Overland Company, as usual had “Pride of Eagers Rockhampton branch Eagers Maryborough branch Place” at the show, this honour being awarded to the automobile manager B.D. Graham in manager George Barrett in manufacturer showing the largest production during the previous Steering Wheel, May 1915. Steering Wheel, May 1915. (STATE LIBRARY OF (STATE LIBRARY OF year.’ The journal was delighted to report: ‘Mr. Eager has QUEENSLAND 125915) QUEENSLAND 125914) brought back with him some very interesting songs used at the Automobile Dealers Dinner.’ The [New York Automobile Show] 1915 Show was held in the Grand Central Palace in Lexington-avenue, no fewer than four floors being necessary to accommodate the exhibits. The whole of the first floor, and the larger part of the second, was occupied by ordinary petrol cars, while electric cars were shown in the remaining second floor space. Motor cycles were displayed on the top floor, while both the third and fourth floors accommodated accessories, and still more cars. The total value of exhibits was estimated to exceed three and a half million dollars, and the attendance was nearly double that of the preceding Show. The number of cars shown in 1914 was 147 petrol and 29 electric. This year the petrol cars numbered 528, an enormous increase, demonstrating that America has been quick in seeing her ‘When the car reaches our hands opportunities, and equally prompt in taking advantage of them. as a “Second-hand”, (Truth, 28 March 1915) we take it down and thoroughly overhaul By now it had become apparent to the commuters along Breakfast the chassis – every Creek Road that E.G. Eager and Son Limited had great ambitions worn part being for the Newstead site, where ‘The Eagers’ Motor Colony’ was cast out for a new part. The body is almost completed. Where in 1912 there were three men on the modernised, the Eagers’ pay roll, now there were over 100, and the new headquarters upholstery renewed, of the Company was tangible evidence of their success. A Show and the paint shop Room, offices, Garage and Main Repair Shops had been built, finishes the job. The car comes out of with 126 feet frontage to the main road and a depth of 99 feet. the painter’s hands new in appearance and practically new mechanically.’ (Steering Wheel, July 1915) 16 A DRIVING FORCE

‘I am a Rebuilt Car.’ (Steering Wheel, February 1915) ‘The Eagers Guarantee.’ ‘“Rebuilts”, and we can offer an unusually varied ﬁeld to choose from – practically everything, from a “Ford” to a “Silent Knight Daimler”. Ask for our “Rebuilt” List.’ (Steering Wheel, April 1915) chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 17

‘We reckoned out that with the State favoured, as seasons go, and with the wealth of the Sugar industry and the Cattle Industry, augmented if anything with the advent of War, Queensland would stand up under the strain. We didn’t let it go at believing. We backed our belief by these new buildings and the greater orders at the Factory.’

Steering Wheel featured an elaborate series of photographs of Architect W.C. Voller designed a new garage and G.E. Day, each phase of the work carried on at Eagers. Master Builder carried out the work. ‘Within a stone’s throw is situated a large colony of buildings comprising a paintshop, ‘If our confidence in the State had “wilted” under the War scare bodyshop and car warehouse. These buildings cover an area of and our orders to the Factory had decreased, we should never 99 feet by 165 feet’, enthused Construction magazine in 1915. have been able to meet this demand.’ ‘War broke out last August. It might have unsettled our The last Directors’ meeting at 299 Adelaide Street was held on confidence in Queensland – but it didn’t. We proved that it 4 January 1915, with E.G. Eager in the chair. It was at Breakfast didn’t by going straight ahead with all the building we had Creek Road that the meeting of shareholders was held on planned, and by continuing to increase our orders at the 27 April 1915, when the company solicitors reported that this Overland Factory.’ (Steering Wheel, April 1915) was now the registered office. 18 A DRIVING FORCE

The main garage. ‘On the left, beyond the scope of the camera, are the Show Room and Private and General Ofﬁces, also the Parts and Accessories Department. Stretched almost full length across the back and continuing along the complete length of the right side of the building, are Machine and Work Shops. The whole building covers an area of 99ft. by 126 ft, with access from three streets. Note the amount of glass used in the walls, providing that most needed factor in a Motor Works – perfect lighting.’ All the buildings that made up the Eagers Motor Colony were roofed with tubular iron, sourced nearby from Stewarts and Lloyds (Aust) Limited, Ann Street, Fortitude Valley. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126061)

L.A. Jackson, Eagers’ Foreman E.J. Dix, Eagers’ Head Body Builder. (Steering Wheel, Painter. (Steering Wheel, February 1915). February 1915). [PICTURE QUEENSLAND [STATE LIBRARY OF COLLECTION. STATE LIBRARY QUEENSLAND 125939] OF QUEENSLAND 125908] The works at Austin Street, Newstead, at the time of their completion in November 1914. (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125920] chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 19

The Metal Shop measured 41 feet by 21 feet. ‘All our own mudguards are Part of the Main Repair Shop at Eagers. ‘Since New Year’s Day we’ve landed no made here.’ (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125918) less than 135 cars. For January we sold 60; for February 48, and up to 11th March, 19; a total of 126 in 60 business days. More records for Queensland. The ﬁgure standing midway on the right is Mr. Hutchinson, foreman.’ (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125912]

The Body-Building Department, 67 feet by 41 feet. The Trimmer’s Shop where all the upholstery, hoods and seat covers were (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125917] produced. Note the treadle sewing machines, and the no smoking sign. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125909) 20 A DRIVING FORCE

The Smith’s Shop at Eagers, ‘where all our own heavy metal work is done’. The Warehouse, 125 feet by 41 feet. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125937) Note to the right of the picture what appears to be a blacksmithing corner with a furnace and an anvil. (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125940]

The Paint Shop, 52 feet by 41 feet, showing one of the four dust-proof The Men of the Paint Shop. Wearing the paint-splattered aprons of their trade. compartments ‘preventing dust marring the glossy ﬁnish of the cars’. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125938) (Steering Wheel, February 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125938] chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 21

‘Team of Body Builders.’ [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125919] 22 A DRIVING FORCE

‘The Model 81 at £345 cash has a wheelbase of 106 inches. The equipment is practically the same as the “80”.’ (Advertisement from Steering Wheel, April 1915) HILL-CLIMBING Hill-climbing was about to take Brisbane by storm as motorists vied with each other to ascend the steepest Brisbane hills in their automobiles, creating a dust in more ways than one, and to the cheers of envious spectators. The Automobile Club of Queensland decided to hold contests on 17 April 1915, one for members, the other to be open to all motorists. Brisbane’s Sunday newspaper, Truth, instructed that: Members can enter both at a fee of 5s., and non-members will require to pay an entrance fee of 6s. Trophies will be given in each, valued at £4 4s. and £2 2s., with special prizes for the fastest time of £2 2s. each contest. Cars must be fully equipped for general touring, with properly upholstered and painted body, mud guards, lamps, horn, hood and windscreen, and efﬁcient silencers.

The Queenslander delighted in the new sport in which both E.G. Eager and his son participated: A hill-climbing contest was held under the auspices of the Automobile Club of Queensland at Hamilton on Saturday. The test, which was watched with interest by a large number of motorists and their friends, was a severe one, the course being up The New 1915 Overland Coupe, the steep incline of Cooksley-street to Queen’s-road, into which advertised as the ideal ladies’ latter thoroughfare the turn was sharp, and the difficulty was car, but with no mention of the accentuated by the increasingly precipitous gradient which ruled price; this was an expensive from there to the finishing point at the top of the pinch. The model. ‘Our figures, since war broke out to 31st January, are course called for skilful handling by the respective contestants, 202 cars in 157 working days.’ and in this their work elicited considerable commendation. (Steering Wheel, February 1915) 1000 MILE NON-STOP RUN. NEW ACHIEVEMENT BY AN “OVERLAND”. Considerable interest was created in motoring circles in Queensland by the receipt of telegraphic advice from Charleville on March 31 last to the effect that Mr. C. Post Mason had successfully concluded his 1000-mile non-stop run. Driving his Overland car, Mr. Mason started out from Charleville at half-past 11 o’clock on Saturday night, 27th ult. The first part of the test consisted of two return trips to Adavale, 115 miles distant – a total distance of 460 miles. Adavale was reached on the first trip at 6.12 o’clock on Sunday morning. On the return, Charleville was reached at 16 minutes past 1 the same day. The second run to Adavale was completed, and Charleville reached again at 3.35 o’clock on Monday morning. The test chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 23

‘The New 1915 Overland Coupe. The Ideal Town Car. It has room for 4 pasengers (sic). A magniﬁcent interior is then continued eastwards to Roma, returning via Augathella. completely covered with soft grey Bedford cloth. The cushions Charleville was ﬁnally reached at 11.30 on Tuesday night – exactly are deep and inviting. Exquisite 72 hours after starting. Telegraphic advice has not contained full silk curtains patterned in dainty particulars of the latter part of the journey, but it is mentioned black and white striping ensure that a notorious hill, termed in the West “The Jump Up” and privacy when required. There situated beyond Roma, was climbed in the creditable time of are wide doors and sashless windows – easily adjustable. 2 min. Advice states that Mr. Mason drove the Overland himself The Car is absolutely weather for 52 hours out of the 72, his longest unbroken period at the proof and rattle proof.’ wheel being 30 hours. (Truth, 4 April 1915) (Steering Wheel, April 1915)

A nation that had repeatedly told the story of the hard riding of the Man from Snowy River was soon to have motoring heroes and hard driving on which to base new legends. Prospective motorists needed to be impressed not only by a car’s ability to cover difﬁcult inclines, but also by reliability over long distances, and this too captured great public interest.

‘Mr. E.G. Eager and Mrs. Eager are due to arrive here during Christmas week from their extended American trip.’ (Steering Wheel, January 1916)

‘Mr. E.G. Eager, senior partner of the ﬁrm of E.G. Eager & Son Ltd., arrived in Brisbane early in January on his return from an extended visit to the United States. Mr. Eager has much to say of interest in regard to the manufacture of munitions in America for the Allies.’ (Steering Wheel, February 1916)

Eagers made a valuable contribution to mobility in outback Queensland. An Overland, photographed near Charleville in 1915. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 151781) 24 A DRIVING FORCE

Overlands prove popular in western Queensland despite wartime worries. Steering Wheel, March-April 1916. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126066) This advertisement appeared in the Catholic Advocate on 11 February 1915. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 25

FRED EAGER: AUTOMOBILE TOURING IS THE KING OF OUTDOOR SPORTS. While E.G. Eager made constant business trips to the United States, Fred Eager ran the firm, and delighted in pushing the new motoring craze as far as he could. The Queenslander of 16 July 1916 reported: ‘The first meeting of the new council of the Automobile Club was held on Thursday evening, at the club premises, Inns of Court’, then situated at the top of Adelaide Street. Fred Eager was appointed chairman of the Roads Committee, a daunting task in Queensland where the bush tracks between towns were unsealed, not signposted, and either so dusty or so muddy that a horse might be needed to enable a bogged car to move at all.

Mount Glorious at the end of the 20th century is a short and pleasant run from the city and its suburbs but at the time of the First World War it was still virtually untouched bushland, At Governor’s Chair lookout, near Spicer’s Gap are: A. Anderson, E. Hall, Percy Barry, J. White, devoid of roads, or even of picnickers. ‘A Record Motor Climb T. Ahern, Mrs. Anderson, F.Z. Eager and J.H. Grice, in Steering Wheel, August 1915. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125921) and what was found at the top of it’ was a topical article in the Brisbane daily press: On Saturday last an Overland car made a trip which is not only unique and record-breaking, but is of more than usual interest to the general public. The car, a rebuilt 1912 model left Brisbane at 1.20 p.m., driven by Mr F.Z. Eager, with Mr. Chas. E. Hall as passenger. At 1.45 Samford post ofﬁce was reached, and Mr. Geo. Stevens added to the passenger list. Picking up Mr. A.J. White at the Samson Vale turnoff the car reached the head of Cedar Creek at 2.30. This point is about 22 miles from the Brisbane G.P.O. At 4.20 p.m. the car and party reached “Gentle Breeze,” the home of Mr. Thos. Lindsay, on the summit of Mount Glorious (at one time called Cedar Mountain). A good road up Mount Glorious means that a better climate than that of Toowoomba, and the ﬁnest scenery in Queensland, will be accessible to all, just under 30 miles from the G.P.O. We venture to predict that within the near future more motor cars will go over this road than to any other point near Brisbane, and that Mount Glorious will take its natural place as Brisbane’s summer resort.

Fred Eager: ‘I am enclosing herewith two new photographs taken on Mount Glorious...my car on the summit of the mountain in front of Mr Lindsay’s house. These photos were taken on July 24th and 25th, on my second visit, per car, to the summit of the mountain. ...the pictures I did get were time exposures, in the rain.’ (Steering Wheel, August 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125922] 26 A DRIVING FORCE

Fred Eager was impressed by the number of pleasure spots within easy motoring of Brisbane, such as Spicer’s Gap and Mount Glorious. He believed they could become popular with the public and suitable roads could be constructed over their often hilly terrain: If Brisbane motorists could only realise the magniﬁcent climate and Panoramas to be obtained on Mount Glorious we have not the slightest doubt but that sufﬁcient money would be forthcoming to make a touring road to the summit, and with a road built there is no doubt as to which would be the favourite resort for a week-end run around Brisbane.

Arch Nicholls and Ken Webster had negotiated Spicer’s Gap in a small Adler in mid 1913, from the Warwick side, followed before long by W.T. Forrest. Then in November 1914, C.M. Must drove a Ford up from the Fassifern side and in June 1915, C.F. White of Pikedale completed the return trip to Brisbane in his Buick in two days, crossing the Gap twice. In mid 1915 Fred Eager and ‘Picnic Party at foot of Mt. Glorious day after the ascent.’ (Steering Wheel, July 1915). C.F. White drove from Brisbane to Warwick in just over eight hours, [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125916] including all stops: ‘In light of the fact that Mr. Eager’s passengers included his wife and little boy aged four years, who went over without discomfort, it would seem that the road isn’t too bad’ explained Steering Wheel in their July edition. Fred Eager’s wife, Carolyn McMaken Eager and their son Edward McMaken Eager had continued to live in Toledo, Ohio and were visiting Australia. By the 1915 Royal National Show possibly it was understood by the public that they could visit Eagers there, as an advertisement in the Exhibition Special of the Brisbane Courier explained: ‘We have no exhibit at the coming Show, but shall be pleased to see you at either of our Show Rooms – Adelaide-Street, or Breakfast Creek Road.’ Steering Wheel in December 1915 was giving Fred Eager star billing. He regularly commuted between Sydney and Brisbane overseeing shipments of Overlands, and generally kept abreast of advances in the industry: At a recent meeting of the Roads Committee the statement was made by Mr. F.Z. Eager that he considered it possible to reach Coolangatta without crossing the MacPherson Range and proceeding via Murwillumbah – a distance of some 105 miles. Accordingly, accompanied by Mr. Jack White, Mr. Eager made a tour of exploration recently and reached Coolangatta with the Advertisement from the ‘Exhibition Special’ of the Brisbane Courier, 5 August 1915. ‘During Brisbane Show Week there was an extraordinary rush on these Model 81’s, speedometer registering 78 miles – a saving of close on 30 miles particularly by visitors from the country.’ on the accepted route. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 27

(TOP) ‘Finish of the 10-Mile Motor cycling Championship (TOP) ‘A group of well-known ﬁgures in the motor world. (TOP) The See-Saw in the Obstacle Race. Mr. S.R. Lough’s of Queensland. W.S. Power winning. Eric Lahey coming From left to right: Mr. C.T. Morris (Dalgety’s), W. Effey car at the critical moment. Mr. C.E. Hall observing.’ into the straight second. Time 10 mins, 59 secs. (starter), F.Z. Eager, P.T. Smith, G.W. Whatmore (pointing), (MIDDLE) ‘Mr. F.Z. Eager comes to earth again at speed.’ (MIDDLE) ‘Mr. F.Z. Eager and his “Overland” Speedster. S.R. Lough (ringmaster, with paper), C. Barnes and (BOTTOM) ‘Miss M. Springﬁeld and W.M. Trevethan – This car is one of the best known on Southern Queensland A.V. Dodwell (C.C.M.)’. (MIDDLE) ‘Alderman J.T. McGuire Musical Chairs Winners.’ (Steering Wheel, April 1916). roads.’ (BOTTOM) ‘Waiting for the start of the 1st event.’ in the Apple Cutting Competition.’ (BOTTOM) ‘Miss Kilroe [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126064] (Steering Wheel, 1 March 1916). successfully negotiates a narrow gate. The observers are [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126065] Messrs. W. Johns (nearer) and A.J. Leaver.’ (Steering Wheel, April 1916). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126068] 28 A DRIVING FORCE

An exciting series of short sprints and reverses. ‘A Novelty Speed contest of 130 yards, in which motor car [Fred Eager], motor cycle, and racing pony lined up on scratch, racing cyclist on 10 yards, footrunner on 30 yards and racing goat on 85 yards resolved itself into a go between the footrunner and the pony. Despite his generous handicap the goat refused to be hurried and saw the race from the rear. There was considerable difﬁculty in the arrangements of handicaps for this event, there being practically nothing in the way of past performances of a comparative nature as a guide. In view of times registered subsequently in the motor car sprint a contest between a motor car and a footrunner over 100 yards should prove a good “go”.’ (Steering Wheel, April 1916)

Fred Eager won ﬁrst heat in the Motor Car Sprint, and in the last ‘blew out a plug and limped in last on three cylinders’. Victory was his in the Obstacle race. Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son have been obliged to install a second honour board to accommodate the names of employees at the front. (Steering Wheel, June 1916.) Mr. F.Z. Eager has discovered a road down Tweed way which, it is reported even the local Shire knew not of. This road may possibly solve the direct road to Coolangatta problem. (Steering Wheel, May 1916.)

The American origin of the main product was kept constantly before the public. Eager’s advertisement for Overlands included a description of the Willys-Overland factory in Toledo, Ohio: ‘An interesting device that The first Motor Gymkhana in Toowoomba was held at Clifford Park We build 1000 Overlands a day. Our factory is the largest motor will appeal to motorists Racecourse and organised by E.V. O’Brien for 26 January 1916, car factory in the world. It contains 103 acres of floor space and who use their cars for employs over 16,000 men. Working on such a tremendous scale, touring has been put on Australia Day. Fred Eager was among the Brisbane visitors and the market by Messrs. proceeds were to be divided between the Toowoomba Hospital and a we can put better materials into our cars and sell them at a price E.G. Eager & Son, fund for helping Australian Natives Association men on active service: no other manufacturer could afford. (Queenslander, 3 June 1916) Brisbane. This takes the form of a box which A proposal to arrange a friendly speed contest between The motoring column ran: serves the purpose of Mr. F.Z. Eager in his white Overland and Mr. W. Elvery in The popularity of the overland car and the ever-increasing an Iceless Cooler.’ his record Studebaker was shelved on its being discovered (Steering Wheel, demand for it is remarkable, even in these days when motor that the course had been lent on the express understanding May 1916) cars are beginning to be considered more of a necessity than a that no motor cars would be allowed on the track. luxury. Mr. John N. Willys, the head of the Willys-Overland Co., In April Eagers donated money to the Grand Patriotic Motor assumed control eight years ago, and the plant is now fourteen Gymkhana organised by the Automobile Club, including Fred Eager times its original size, and occupies floor space available for who came second in the Apple Cutting event, and won the Potato Race: manufacturing purposes of 103 acres. chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 29

Fred Eager in his 45 h.p. Overland Speedster, ‘Whitey’ in which he conquered such formidable obstacles as Spicer’s Gap, Mount Gravatt and Mount Glorious. Note the wooden-spoked wheels (later replaced with wire wheels) and the stabilising strap across the bonnet.

He was by now a well-known Brisbane identity, and a leader in motoring circles. The original caption reads: ‘In this car Mr. Eager has been several times across Spicer’s Gap, three times to the summit of Mt. Glorious (it being the ﬁrst car to make the ascent), and four times up Mt. Gravatt. Also it is one of the only two cars to cross Tambourene [Tamborine] Mountain from the Brisbane side. In it Mr. Eager recently pioneered a new and short road to Coolangatta from Brisbane across the Currumbin Creek. The machine is enamelled white, and has quite a docile appearance.’ (Steering Wheel, December 1915). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125927]

Steering Wheel, 1 April 1916. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126067) 30 A DRIVING FORCE

About the Mount Coot-tha hill-climb it reported: A large crowd enjoyed the view from the summit of Mt. Coot-tha, whilst awaiting the arrival of the competing cars. The fastest time

‘Mr. A. Jewell on the Southport for the 1.6 miles of activity and winding road was scored by Beach.’ His Studebaker triumphed F.Z. Eager’s Overland (entrant), 4-cylinder, 34.4 h.-p., 2772, over Fred Eager’s Overland. 2 min. 43.2 5 sec. Prior to the event, Mr. Boyd Edkins forecast (Steering Wheel, January 1917). that the Formula Prize would go to the little Fiat. The many PICTURE QUEENSLAND COLLECTION] [ who were convinced that the fastest time prize was a foregone conclusion for the Sydney champion and his Vauxhall, received a set-back when Mr. F.Z. Eager tore up the last stretch in his white Overland, in 123 5 min., better time. The Overland’s time shows an average of 37½ miles an hour all the way up the hill from the standing start, which is probably close to the limit possible on a hill with the “ticklish” bends of Mount Coot-tha. Mr. Albert Harrington driving, as ﬁrst competitor, a ﬁve-seated Buick set up time at 3.11/5 sec., a speed which was bettered only twice by Messrs. Eager and Edkins. (Queenslander, 10 June 1916)

It was not all plain sailing for Fred Eager and in well-publicised races on the beach at Southport he was beaten by A. Jewell in his Studebaker: Southport Speed Trials. With the keenness for competition that is characteristic of him, Mr Fred. Eager proceeded to build a light body on to the chassis in which he has figured so prominently ‘Fred Z. Eager in action, in the Automobile Club Hill Climbs and in official trials about Congratulations!’ The body of Brisbane. After 125,000 miles running, it was rather a severe his Overland Cluster-body demand to ask this car to make its attempt at the Australian Roadster was designed by L.A. Jackson of Messrs. speed record. Though unsuccessful, the final results showed that E.G. Eager and Son, Limited. it by no means disgraced itself, nor disappointed its admirers. (Steering Wheel, January 1917). (Steering Wheel, January 1917)

Mr. F.Z. Eager spent a fortnight during January holidaying at the Tweed where the ﬁshing leaves nothing to be desired and the roads quite a lot. Mr. Eager collected much additional information with regard to the possibility of linking Brisbane and Tweed with a direct route. (Steering Wheel, February 1917)

The most silent of motors. Instead of valves that are opened and shut by cams and springs, the KNIGHT MOTOR simply has openings and vents in its sliding sleeves. The common enemy of all other motors – CARBON – is the greatest friend of the KNIGHT. As Carbon collects in the KNIGHT MOTOR it forms a smooth-as-glass coating which is rubbed chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 31

and polished by the sliding mechanism until it makes a more Mr. F.Z. Eager has been absent in Sydney on two visits during the perfect surface than it is mechanically possible to produce. past month, the latter being to visit his father who was suddenly (Steering Wheel, February 1917) taken ill. The motor circles in general will be glad to hear that Mr. E.G. Eager is at time of writing again on the improve. The Willys-Knight which established the figures mentioned was in every way a stock model and had not received any special Mr. F.Z. Eager, Chairman of the Roads Committee, conceived the preparation prior to the event. The other car entered by Messrs. idea of establishing a fund which could be operated by the Roads E.G. Eager & Son Limited was an Overland Model 75 which Committee with a view to having certain of the main roads of accomplished 32 miles to the gallon. On the day prior to the interest to motorists placed in such a state of repair as to open the contest, a first test showed that this little car in its ordinary running was averaging 34 miles per gallon. The Overland line as resorts to which they lead to the regular motor tourist. The Southport offered in Queensland at present by Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son, and Tweed road and the road over Spicer’s Gap were the two routes Limited, comprises the Willys-Knight, £495; Model 85, a fine principally in mind, the direct road over the Little Liverpool Range big classy car at £365; and the sturdy and economical Model 75 between Grandchester and Laidley having been already provided for at £295. (Steering Wheel, April 1917) by a subscription list among motorists. (Steering Wheel, June 1917)

‘Mr. D.W. Ezzy, Warwick, spent the Christmas-New Year period in Sydney, doubtless, celebrating his achievement of seven car sales in a week during December. Mr. Dave W. Ezzy established something of a record when he arrived in Brisbane just prior to Christmas and informed Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son that he proposed to take seven cars back to Warwick with him. This total represented one week’s sales of Overlands and Willys-Knights in Mr. Ezzy’s territory. The photo shows the week’s “clean up” and the chief actor in the piece.’ The photograph was taken outside the premises of E.G. Eager & Son, Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead. (Steering Wheel, February 1917). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126074] 32 A DRIVING FORCE

Striking Victory for Overland. A telegram despatched from Perth has just been received by Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son, Brisbane, Steering Wheel, Overland agents for Queensland. This telegram reads: “Anderson March 1917. (STATE LIBRARY OF with Overland seventy-ﬁve beat all other cars and tied with QUEENSLAND 126077) Hudson six for fastest time on four mile sand pull and hill climb.” (Steering Wheel, June 1917)

The records of the Company for 1917 imply that great changes were about to take place. The shareholders’ meeting scheduled to take place on 3 May 1917 had been adjourned, for lack of a quorum, to 17 May and was chaired by Fred Eager. On 28 May 1917 a Directors’ meeting was held at E.G. Eager’s home, Glendower, Crescent Road, Hamilton. Those present were Fred Eager, who chaired the meeting, Mrs E.G. Eager and the Secretary. Single shares were transferred from Fred Eager to Robert Dutton, to M.V. Horen, to G.E. Green, and to A.J. White, and 35,001 shares were transferred from E.G. Eager to his son. At the next Directors’ meeting, held at the registered ofﬁce of the Company on 29 May 1917, M.V. Horen who had been Assistant Manager, was appointed a Director.

The mention of G.E. Green is of interest. George Ernest Green was then a young man, about the same age as Fred Eager and like him a keen footballer. He had been elected an Associate of the Queensland Institute of Accountants Incorporated on 10 December 1913, and had been asked to join E.G. Eager and Son Limited in 1917. His name would in time become synonymous with Eagers.

The Steering Wheel of May 1915 had reported ‘Mr Fred Z. Eager made a trip to Sydney a week ago to meet his wife and little boy, who have just crossed from the United States.’ E.G. Eager and his wife could then leave on a visit to America via New Zealand, leaving their son to control the business. For E.G. Eager this was to be the beginning of the end. A statement written by his widow, ‘Mr Fred Eager exchanges the Dora Eager, in 1925, explained the position, that he had been in White Car for White Horses. a motor vehicle accident in the United States, and from this his He shot the latter so it is evident health never really recovered: he prefers the car – despite appearances.’ (Steering Toledo, OHIO, U.S.A. June 27th 1925. During Easter week Wheel, March 1917). 1917, my Husband (E.G. Eager) and myself arrived in Sydney [STATE LIBRARY OF from New Zealand, to meet the late Mr. R.T. Williams, then QUEENSLAND 126073] Export Manager of the Willys-Overland Company. My husband was in bad health as the result of a motor accident sustained the chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 33

previous year. Mr. Williams strongly urged Mr. Eager to retire from active field work, accepting a position in the Company’s Head Office which would permit him to live in a semi-retired manner and it was finally decided to act on this advice. The firm of E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. was at this time in a very unfavourable position owing to war time conditions, and my son Fred Z. Eager was asked to stay in Australia in charge of this business, at least until business conditions were more favourable for realization. My son made my Husband a counter proposition, offering to buy his Father’s and my own shares at book valuation (which at that time was approximately 13/4 per one pound share) and remain in Australia indefinitely. After some discussion my Husband and I agreed to this proposal. My son was to give Promissory Notes at 6% interest for the entire book value of our shares payable at the National Bank of Commerce, Toledo, Ohio, until his first ensuing trip to America, when he could have opportunity to liquidate certain investments he then had in this country and apply the proceeds against our notes. ‘Mr. F.Z. Eager in the white Overland Speedster shod with the PERDRIAU 3-RIB TYRES on which he made his fastest time on Southport Beach at Christmas – 81.8 miles p.h.’ The image appeared This arrangement was completed before Mr. Williams sailed for in Steering Wheel, in April 1917. America in May and my husband engaged passage to America for my Mother myself, and himself, per the Sonoma, sailing July 4th. In the meantime we made a trip to Brisbane for the express purpose of completing the transaction with my son. Mr. Eager was under skilled medical care at all times, and we were assured both in Sydney and Brisbane that he was doing well and had many years of life to look forward to, provided he carried out his plan of retiring from active work. I have no record of exact dates, but know that he completed the transaction with my son as soon as the various papers were ready. A week or so afterwards he had a sudden bad turn, became unconscious, and died within fortyeight hours. I returned to this country on the Sonoma in July 1917 with my Mother and a nurse, and also brought Mr. Eager’s remains on the ship on which he had engaged our passages.

Australia’s Prime Minister. William (Billy) Hughes, in the Model 85 Overland he used on his visit to Brisbane when he was attempting to promote conscription. (Steering Wheel, 1 May 1917). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126079] 34 A DRIVING FORCE

Edward George Eager died on 18 June 1917, at his home, Glendower, in Crescent Road at Hamilton and was given a private funeral. He was 53. His death certificate states that he was the son Glendower, 68 Crescent of Zina Eager, gentleman, and his wife, the former Helen Lamb, Road, Hamilton, advertised and that he was buried on 3 August 1917 at Wauseon Cemetery, for sale in 1909, in the Queensland Trustees’ Ohio, in the United States of America. Frederic Zina Eager, his only Quarterly Review, a two- child, was then 29. To his firm he had been ‘The Grand Old Man’. storey house overlooking the Brisbane River, with The Daily Mail of 20 June 1917 spoke in detail of the gap this nine large rooms, stables, a coach-house and every death would leave: convenience. It became the LATE MR. E.G. EAGER The death occurred on Monday home of Edward Eager, when, no doubt, garages evening of Mr. E.G. Eager, senior member of the firm of Messrs. were added. He died there E.G. Eager and Son Ltd., agents for the Willys-Overland Co. in in 1917. In later years the Queensland. Mr. Eager, who was in his fifty-third year, and had house was converted into flats and then demolished been confined to his bed for some time past, passed peacefully to make way for units. away at his residence, Crescent-road, Hamilton. Yesterday there [STATE LIBRARY OF was evident throughout the business circles in which he moved QUEENSLAND 67739] – particularly among those connected with the motor business – a feeling of deep sorrow, for the late Mr. Eager not only won the respect of all with whom he came into touch, but had the gift of inspiring an affectionate regard among those who were more intimately associated with him. His unfailing kindness, his optimism, and the power he undoubtedly possessed of instilling into others the same cheerfulness and enthusiasm that were In October 1917 the Overland Company sent for my son, and always his, endeared him to many. It is a striking tribute to the while in Toledo he liquidated all property he had in this country, magnetism of the deceased that there are many who feel in his paying the proceeds to me against the notes I held. loss the removal of a personal friend on whom business never pressed so heavily but that he had time to be concerned in the The original notes changed hands on the day the documents were signed in Brisbane. These I brought to Toledo and left with welfare of others. Particularly among his staff was this affection the bank until my son’s arrival. My husband’s estate was handled accentuated. Every one can tell of some incident or act of by the late Mr. S.D. Carr, then President of the National Bank kindness in which Mr. Eager evinced the human touch which of Commerce of this city, and my son’s notes came into my made him the ideal employer. Few people know the extent of possession as a part of the estate. his assistance to charities and his regular support of patriotic When my son had made his first payment against the notes he activities. Both were invariably carried through anonymously gave me one fresh note for the unpaid balance, and this is still – a condition upon which Mr. Eager was always insistent. in my possession. I have at all times since date of the first notes Mr. Eager’s career is typical of the life of a successful business received interest at 6% on unpaid balances. man, and he passed away not only in the prime of life, but in the (sgd) Dora A. Eager. height of success. Born in Wauseon, Ohio, U.S.A., in 1864, he (Mrs. E.G. Eager) was connected with the bicycle business from its inception until chapter one – EAGER FOR THE OVERLAND 35

the formation of the big trust – the American Bicycle Co. – which took over practically the whole of the bicycle business. He was then associated with the Goodyear Tyre Co. in the earliest days of the rubber trade. As a result of two European trips, made for the purpose of reporting on rubber processes, he became interested in motors, and opened the ﬁrst garage and motor company in Toledo, Ohio. This was in 1900. His ﬁrst trip round the world was made in 1902 in the interests of the Goodyear Co. Since this date he has travelled very extensively in the Orient, Australasia, Africa and Europe. In 1909 he covered Africa and Australasia, reporting on motor trade prospects for the Ford Co. In the following year he introduced Overland and Hupmobile cars to Australasia and Africa. Two years later he gave up his African interests to concentrate upon Australasia. Five years ago (in 1912) he opened up the present Queensland retail motor business which bears his name. In 1914 he relinquished the Hupmobile line to devote his whole time to Overland business in Australasia. Two years ago he met with a serious accident while motoring in the vicinity of the Overland factory in America, but recovered after spending several months in the hospital. Mr. Eager’s tirelessness practically to the last is indicated by the fact that he had just concluded a six months’ tour of New Zealand, during which he not only accomplished record business, equivalent to an 80 per cent increase over the previous year, but that he motored over 9000 miles during that period. Mr. Eager’s body is being embalmed, and will be taken to the United States for interment in his home town. The deceased leaves a wife and only son, Mr Fred. Z. Eager, well known in

motoring circles throughout Queensland. ‘The late Mr. E.G. Eager.’ (Steering Wheel, 2 July 1917) The Telegraph spoke of him as ‘A Motor Trade Pioneer’ and The Australian Motorist recalled him as ‘a prominent figure in motordom’. He at once gained the respect and esteem of all those who came Steering Wheel on 2 July 1917 started their ‘Motorgrams’ in contact with him for his absolute straightness in business and column with: ‘We lost a ﬁne citizen and a man to whom the unfailing kindness to his employees, in whom he instilled his motor trade owes much, when Mr. E.G. Eager passed out during own enthusiasm and cheerfulness. Since the war started he took June.’ It was business as usual and Eagers continued to advertise. a prominent part in contributing to patriotic causes, but very At this time they could boast that the Overland 75 would give much of his liberality was quietly bestowed and not publicly ‘High Grade, High Performance, High Power, but Low Price’ known. His loss will be keenly felt, not only by his immediate and that ‘these cars are now running in all parts of the State’. friends, but by the whole motor trade. E.G. Eager’s vision had become a reality. 36 A DRIVING FORCE

Receipt dated 11 September 1917, for payment of £275 for an Overland car. chapter two

THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM (1917–1929) Frederic Z. Eager carries on. Land speed records. Branches established. The GMH franchise and... the Whippet. 38 A DRIVING FORCE

(ABOVE) Some of the staff gather outside Eagers Paint Shop and Body Building Works and the Warehouse for the Overland motorcars. (BELOW) A view across Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead to the corner of Evelyn Street, c.1918. Eagers staff pose outside the Showroom of E.G. Eager & Son. Eagers Garage is to the right of the Showroom. The Work Shops facing Evelyn Street, with another facing Breakfast Creek Road can just be seen. Note the prominent Overland signs, and the horse-drawn vehicles that would soon be history. (Photographed by Belbin.)

An Overland Tourer, with a boot, and with its hood up showing the oval rear windows, Staff in front of the Work Shops facing Breakfast Creek Road at Newstead, c.1918. outside Eagers, Newstead, c.1921. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 110140) (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 7155) chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 39

The Company’s name remained unchanged. New Directors of E.G. Eager and Son Limited were Robert Dutton on 30 June 1917, TGeorge Ernest Green on 10 August 1917, and Albert J. White on 27 August 1917. Fred Eager left Brisbane in September for a trip to America which would see him absent from Brisbane for about three months. One of his main stops was to be the headquarters of Willys Overland in Toledo. By December, Robert Dutton, Secretary of Eagers had left for Sydney to meet Fred Eager on his return. The traveller brought back with him details of the preparations that America was making to enter the ‘European struggle’. Conscription had happened, food rationing was a reality, and American manufacturers, including Willys Overland were giving Government work priority in their plants. He professed himself glad to be back in Australia, and was quoted in Steering Wheel:

I would say to Queensland, except for the fact that my new duties as Australasian Representative of the Willys Overland Company ‘“Whitey”, Mr. F.Z. Eager’s Overland car which has performed with such credit in a will keep me travelling most of the time. However, I will still series of A.C.Q. Hill Climbing contests. This car, a 1912 model, has 125,000 miles to its credit.’ Note the wire wheels that replaced the early ones constructed with wooden retain all my interest in E.G. Eager and Son, Limited, and will spokes. (Steering Wheel, October 1917). [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126078] visit Brisbane as frequently as may be possible.

Meanwhile the ﬁrm was faced with the difﬁculty of new stock deliveries, and continued to stress just how reliable a used or rebuilt car purchased from them could be. It was company policy when placing used cars on the market to avoid the use of the term ‘second-hand’, believing that so good was their system of overhauling and rebuilding, that they could remedy much of the evidence of wear which usually characterised such a vehicle. They also stressed the importance of maintenance:

To Preserve the Paintwork. Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son supply the following valuable hints for the preservation of the paintwork of cars: A motor car should be kept in an airy, dry garage with a moderate amount of light, or the colour will fade. The garage should be as far away as possible from any stables, etc., the ‘Model 79 Touring Car re-built for station work with Eager Trailer. Total carrying ammonia fumes from manure crack and destroy varnish and capacity, 22 cwt. Built for Mr. W. Dennis, Durdham Downs, Clermont, Q.’ cause colours of paint and lining materials to fade. These hints Featured in Steering Wheel in January 1917. are taken from the catalogue of a coach and motor body building ﬁrm who have been in business since 1773. They are the result of experience. (Steering Wheel, October 1917)

‘EAGER SERVICE is yours for the demanding. It means expert Fred Eager’s paper knife with workmanship, the ﬁnest machine plant, promptness, courtesy.’ the logo of the Willys (Advertisement, 1919) Overland Co, Toledo, Ohio. 40 A DRIVING FORCE

Speed was what mattered, though looking back it is hard to imagine that these times were record breaking. Towards the end of December headlines were made as the Brisbane to Sydney record was broken with a new time of 26 hours 3 minutes by Boyd Edkins, who left from the Brisbane General Post Ofﬁce in a 25-h.p. Vauxhall car to break the existing 28½ hour record held by Francis Birtles. The certiﬁcate of departure was signed by Messrs A. L. Wyatt, of the Dunlop Rubber Company, Richard Cobden of the Queensland Automobile Club, Fred Eager and the editor of Steering Wheel, just before the car departed at two o’clock in the morning, described as ‘kind, sporty courtesy’ by the recipient. And once again the Eager interest in motoring was recorded.

Fred Eager left Brisbane on a trans-Australasian trip about the middle of January 1918, and Brisbane was assured that ‘Whitey’ was with him. By March he was back, less than impressed with the roads he had travelled: ‘He reports the Brisbane-Tenterfield road, via Mount Lindsay in its present condition, as suitable for motor traffic only when all other roads have gone out of existence’, was one description of his findings. He was constantly in the public eye, soon photographed at the top of Mt Glorious with a Chevrolet that had carried to the summit himself, S.R. Lough, W.S. Mackay, and Robert Dutton, Secretary of Eagers, and chairman of the firm’s meetings during Fred Eager’s many absences. In April 1918 Robert Dutton was appointed Public Officer of the At the top of Mt Glorious in 1918. Posing beside the Chevrolet in which they made the ascent are Fred Eager, S.R. Lough, W.S. Mackay and, at far right, Eagers Secretary Robert Dutton. Company for furnishing returns of income taxes, land taxes and (Steering Wheel, March 1918) returns. Fred Eager was off to New Zealand. His account soon reached the Company, and was printed in Steering Wheel:

New Zealand’s Roads through a Queenslander’s Eyes: During the past few days we had a letter from Mr. Fred. Z. Eager, who a couple There were by then Queensland-built bodies for various types of of weeks ago was in New Zealand, but is now in Sydney on his way cars available from Eagers. Mention was made of a Cluster body back to Brisbane. The letter is written “riding on the narrow gauge” on a Buick Six Chassis built for C.M. Barnes, the well-known over the hills to Wanganui from Wellington. An extract from his Warwick grazier. John McCallum preferred a Cluster Body on letter reads: “Looking through the window at the Main Northern a Model 75 Overland Chassis. Demonstrations could always Road prompts this letter to you. Some day after you and I are long be arranged, or illustrated brochures sent to prospective clients. passed away from our earthly activities I suppose Queensland will One advertisement read: ‘If you’re a Brisbaneite you’ve seen the have a road or two like those I see here. If we should by accident number of beautiful streamline white cars (mostly roadsters) about land in Heaven I expect we’ll ﬁnd it a place where they have roads the streets. The majority of these are Eager-built. We’ll be glad like these - only wider - and no speed laws.” Mr. Eager goes on to shew (sic) you many photos of bodies built to suit individual to say that the motor business in New Zealand is remarkably requirements. Electric Lights and Starter and fullest equipment.’ prosperous. Shortage of stocks is the only trouble. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 41

At home shipping costs had greatly increased prices, and again Eagers was heavily promoting its rebuilt models.

More speed trials were accomplished. In April 1918 Robert Dutton and George Green, both Directors of Eagers, were reported to have done the run to Toowoomba in 3½ hours, and the return journey, no doubt an exhilarating, downhill joyride for much of it, was clocked in at 3 hours 5 minutes.

More notoriety but involving a country run, a ﬁtting move when Show Week visitors might be contemplating new purchases, was generated by Fred Eager on 5 July 1918. He left the Treasury Building in Brisbane at 9.35 a.m. in an Overland, and reached the Toowoomba Post Ofﬁce at 11.42½ a.m., thereby establishing an inter-city record between Brisbane and Toowoomba, and averaging a speed record of over 40 miles per hour:

Brisbane-Toowoomba Record. On Friday, July 5, Mr. Fred Z. Eager, driving his Overland “Whitey,” shod with Goodyear tyres, left the Treasury Buildings, Brisbane, in an attempt to make a new time

between Brisbane and Toowoomba. The new time made by Crowds flock to see Fred Eager and Whitey in Toowoomba on 5 July 1918 after his attempt to set a Mr. Eager was thus over a more direct route, though his average new record from Brisbane. From the Treasury Building to the Toowoomba Post Office took 2 hours 7½ speed is also in excess of that previously existing. It is reckoned that minutes, the time recorded by a watch in a sealed packet carried by the driver and opened on arrival. Even by then the 1912 Overland had over 140,000 miles on the clock. At centre right, in a flat cap, is the distance over the new route is just over 85 miles. Arrangements Wally Webb, Fred Eager’s constant offsider and expert motor mechanic. had been made for a sealed watch from Messrs. Hardy Bros., and this was handed to Mr. Eager on the tick of 25 minutes to 10 o’clock by Mr. J.S. Badger. A representative crowd was present to wish Mr. Eager “good luck” in addition to Mr. Badger there being Messrs. A.J. Leaver, M.A. Green, A.J. White, T. Ahern and R. Cobden. It is understood that some planning had to be done to allow Mr. Eager to make the crossing of the railway line at Calvert, and again at Gatton, without possibility of being interfered with through the gates being shut to allow the passage of trains. Mr. Eager was met at Toowoomba by a large crowd, his certificate of arrival being signed by Messrs. A.E. Free (Howard Motor Company), T.R. Beamish (Vacuum Oil Company), and S.G. Priest, J.P. (jeweller). This certificate states that the seals were found to be intact, and the watch, on inspection, showed that 2 hours 7½ minutes had elapsed from the time Mr. Eager had left Brisbane. Since making this run, Mr. Eager has left Brisbane and is now in the South. He will return to Brisbane about September. (Steering Wheel, August 1918)

Fred Eager at the wheel and beside him Wally Webb. Toowoomba, 5 July 1918. (Veteran Car Club Archive) 42 A DRIVING FORCE

Some records were hard to verify and great were the disappointments as would-be sporting triumphs were dismissed. The Queenslander Fred Eager’s famous Overland, ‘Whitey’, winning the Mt Coot-tha on 20 July 1918 had gladly written: Climb and A.C.Q. Hillclimbing Championship Cup on Saturday, The record run between Brisbane and Toowoomba, lately 15 June 1918. They covered made by Mr. F.Z. Eager, is of decided interest to the motoring 1.6 miles in 2 minutes 44.5 seconds community. It affords proof that a car by no means in its ﬁrst at an average speed of 46.15 miles per hour, to set a new record. ‘The youth, can accomplish the distance in the quite extraordinary plomp plomp of his open exhaust time, all things considered, of under 2 hours 8 minutes. Those could be heard a long way off.’ who have driven over the route will appreciate what this means, and it should be remembered that this wonderful time was made not because of favourable road conditions, but in spite of bad ones. The brief stretch between here and Ipswich is in most atrocious condition at the present time.

Then discussion ensued over whether the record run should be officially recognised and a resolution was passed unanimously by the Council:

1. On the evidence the Council is of opinion that the record is not official. 2. Further, that the Council is of opinion that Mr. Eager acted perfectly sincerely, in good faith, and undoubtedly believed the record to be official, the Secretary, acting also in good faith having given it as his opinion that it was so. The Automobile Club of (Steering Wheel, September 1918) Queensland Hill Climbing Championship Cup won by This was finalised some weeks later. Although the competitors had Fred Eager on 15 June 1918. all acted in good faith, apparent non-compliance with the club’s conditions had resulted in the race being declared unofficial:

The Automobile Club of Queensland has declined to recognise the recent motor car record established by Mr. F.Z. Eager, from Toowoomba to Brisbane (85 miles) in 2 hours 7½ minutes, which was some 28 min. better than the previous effort.

Undaunted Fred Eager motored up to Brisbane, from Sydney, on the return from his New Zealand trip in his new Willys-Knight ‘Varsity Eight’, with an over-all running time of 36 hours, and an actual running time of about 23 hours. ‘As the ofﬁcial record is 26 hours, Mr. Eager’s unofﬁcial run promises well for the Brisbane- Sydney record being lowered some time in the future.’ chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 43

THE NEW SPORT OF HILL CLIMBING Hill climbing soon proved to be a splendid method of interesting Wartime advertisement from Steering Wheel, the public, Mount Coot-tha, or the One Tree Hill Course as it was October 1918. then known, was accessible to them, and Eager must have been well aware that success could be used to great advantage in advertising, which did prove to be the case. Endurance, petrol economy and the speed of his product could all be demonstrated. Once again he entered ‘Whitey’, his by now famous Overland, in the Automobile Club of Queensland Hill Climbs held in June 1918, and for the third year in succession he won, earning himself much notoriety, and a trophy, the A.C.Q. Hill Climbing Championship Cup.

The question, “are motor hill climbs of interest to the public” was effectively answered on Saturday, June 15th [1918], when about 200 cars, and according to estimates, close upon 2000 people, gathered along the One Tree Hill course to watch the competing cars in the Automobile Club hill climbs. Eighteen months have passed since the previous climb was held, and the crowd made it apparent that it was quite ready for another. Whether these hill climbs should be held during the war is a question that has been very fully thought out by the officers of the club. One great value lies in the undoubted influence they have in drawing the attention of motorists to the club, and thus assisting in the effort to secure a great numerical membership. The road was thrown open to competing cars for practice prior to 7 a.m. for the week prior to the climb and rumours which circulated during the few days before Saturday, June 15th, gave promise that last year’s record (2.21 2 5, hoisted by Mr. Eager), would be considerably bettered. The second run was made by Mr. F.Z. Eager’s Willys- Knight, driven by Mr. T. Reed. The avowed object in entering this car was to show that it would travel the whole course on top gear under three minutes. This car now has two fine performances to its credit, having come from Sydney in 23½ hours running time a fortnight previously. The third starter was Mr. Fred. Z. Eager, in his white Overland. His first start was a failure, owing to the time- keepers not being ready at the moment the starter gave the signal. He was, accordingly, turned back when half the distance had been covered. His second start was completely successful. It was generally known that Mr. Eager’s practice times had been at least 10 sec. better than his last year’s record, and it was anticipated Fred Eager at the wheel of the new Willys-Knight 8, and beside him his effort on the day would improve this slightly. A number of Alick McNeill, first President of the Motor Traders’ Association of spectators on the hill voiced the opinion that he had the secret of New South Wales. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126071) 44 A DRIVING FORCE

Willys Knight – Silence with Power. New Styles in Dustcoats and Raincoats at English topcoats were advertised (Steering Wheel, July 1918). T.C. Beirne’s department store in Brisbane’s as ideal for motoring in Queensland. [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 12607] Fortitude Valley. (Steering Wheel, September 1918) (Steering Wheel, May 1919) chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 45

breaking two minutes flat, but this turned out to be slightly A SYDNEY-BRISBANE RECORD: over-optimistic. The “plomp,” “plomp” of his open exhaust 621.5 Miles in 19 Hours 38½ Minutes. could be heard a long way off, and sent a wave of excitement among those gathered at the finish. As he appeared in sight The Sydney-Brisbane record was broken on October 19-20 in coming on to the flat at the foot of the grade to the summit really remarkable time. This is the story of the trip, gathered it looked as though two minutes would actually be broken. from various quarters - record-maker, helpers by the way, and As he flashed across the finishing line a great cheer went up officials: Mr. Fred Eager, accompanied by Wallace G. Webb, from practically the whole crowd upon the hill, and this who was responsible for all the mechanical work on the car, was renewed when his time was announced as 2 minutes left the G.P.O. Sydney at 10 p.m. on Saturday, October 1918. (Steering Wheel, November 1918) 4 4 5 seconds. “Whitey,” the car which made the run, is well- known to all Brisbane motorists. It was a 1912 chassis which Mr. Eager redeemed from his firm’s body shop when it was on its way to be converted into a delivery van. Since then it has been unquestionably improved, and was in the nick of condition on Saturday, June 15. Mr. Eager’s “off-sider,” Mr. Wally Webb, did not ride with him on this occasion, though he did the lion’s share of the work in preparing the car for the contest.

‘Leaving the Sydney G.P.O. at 10 p.m. on SATURDAY, October 19, Mr. F.Z. EAGER’S OVERLAND reached the North End of Victoria Bridge, Brisbane, at 5.38½ p.m. SUNDAY, October 20, the distance being covered at a speed averaging slightly in excess of 31.5 miles per hour. This establishes a record, nearly six and one half hours better than the previous best. The run was made under ofﬁcial supervision of the Automobile Club of Queensland, represented by the following committees: - Messrs Boyd Edkins, Ronald Beale, A.V. Culyer. Messrs A.E. Hill, M.V. Corbett, W.M. Nelson, R. Cobden.’ The time was recorded by two sealed watches supplied and tested by Hardy Bros., Sydney. (Steering Wheel, November 1918) 46 A DRIVING FORCE

Fred Eager was one of several prominent members who felt the need to drop out of the Automobile Club in 1918, his reason being that his constant Fred Eager is at the presence was required in the southern states. wheel, accompanied He had managed to attend only one out of by Eagers’ expert motor mechanic 11 meetings of the Roads Committee of which he Wallace Webb, at was chairman, and one out of 18 council meetings. the conclusion of He was, however, asked to remain a member of the Sydney-Brisbane record drive. the Council the opinion expressed being that his (Steering Wheel, regular visitation to other Australian States would November 1918) react to the advantage of the Club. By April it was announced that: ‘Mr Fred Eager (Willys Knight Overland) and Mr. S.R. Lough (Dunlop Rubber Company) have been appointed consuls of the Automobile Club of Queensland in Sydney and Melbourne respectively.’

In early January of 1919 Fred Eager booked to leave Sydney by the Oceanic Company’s Ventura on a business trip to the U.S.A. There he visited Toledo, no doubt to check on American manufacture and how The Steering Wheel the prices of labour, and of such commodities as raw Portrait Gallery featured materials, may have been affected and could disrupt Fred Z. Eager in September 1919. supply in the face of increasing demand with the end of the war. By July, Robert Dutton, accompanied by the Secretary of the A.C.Q., Richard Cobden, had gone to Sydney to meet him and welcome him home to Australia, no doubt ever keen to hear of new ways to improve even further the Eager Service, and the latest developments in the Overland and Willys Knight products. When Fred Eager chaired the Directors’ meeting of his Company in October that year a scheme was implemented whereby certain employees would be able to secure an interest in it, limited to those who had been there for at least two years. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 47

Just as the twenties were about to start, with the promise of a care free existence and great prosperity, and they were encouraging the public to start the new era with a new Overland, the illness and subsequent resignation Robert Dutton, of its popular Manager, Robert Dutton at the end of Manager of 1919 brought great change to E.G. Eager and Son, Ltd. E.G. Eager & Son until 1919 and a Steering Wheel voiced the feelings of many: prominent member of the A.C.Q. Resignation of Mr. Dutton: Mr. R. Dutton has resigned (Steering Wheel, his position as Manager of Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son, May 1919) Ltd., which he has filled for several years. During his association with the firm Mr. Dutton has taken a very active part in the public world of motordom and has won for himself many friends. On the eve of severing his connection with E.G. Eager & Son’s (sic) he was made the recipient of a handsome present, and carries with him the goodwill of the firm and of all who have been associated with him. “The Steering Wheel” wishes him every success in his future business career.

Fred Eager could only regretfully accept Dutton’s resignation which he tendered at the Directors’ meeting on 2 December 1919:

Mr Eager handed R. Dutton a cheque for £220 covering three months salary and a gift of £100 and further directed that when the ﬁgures of the Balance Sheet for the quarter ending October 30th have been ascertained a further cheque for 10% of the net proﬁt be handed to Mr Dutton.

Then, in a move that would determine the fortunes of the Company until comparatively recent times, Fred Eager moved that George Ernest Green be appointed Manager of the Company to replace Robert Dutton. This was seconded by A.J. White and took effect immediately. George Watt Ogilvie was then appointed Secretary. 48 A DRIVING FORCE

ROARING INTO THE TWENTIES George Green had been with Eagers almost from its inception, and in time his family’s name would become unmistakably identiﬁed with it. He soon proved to be a hard-working Manager, keen to see E.G. Eager and Son at the forefront of motoring and he engendered loyal support.

An interesting move by Eagers was the introduction of a break-down service, which must have done much to promote the Eager name among the grateful recipients. At a weekend Automobile Club run to Southport in September 1920, about 20 cars took part in the run and the motorists were treated to afternoon tea at the Southport Hotel as guests of the committee, followed by a visit to the Grand Hotel ‘where a most pleasant social evening was spent’. It was recorded in the Daily Mail that ‘Messrs. E.G. Eager and Sons (sic) Ltd., kindly supplied a break-down car on the trip, the value of which was greatly appreciated by the members’. They performed a similar function the following month when 27 cars went to sea-side Caloundra for a reliability contest and weekend run, when contestants included George Green, who came third in the Open Section (12 miles an hour) in an Overland 4. The same paper enthused:

Expert attention was rendered wherever necessary by the break- down car supplied by Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son. On trips such as this the provision of a service truck is a very wise precaution and gives every participating motorist a sense of security. The service rendered was excellent, and was thoroughly appreciated by the whole of the members present.

Interstate reliability contests were very much the rage, and in those early days of motoring involved enormous preparation. And The Company also emphasised its Motor Body Building, and was by now enormous publicity, so in the largest event of its kind ever conducted advertising ‘Engineering for all cars’, including cylinder reboring, new pistons, cylinder grinding, case hardening and treatment of steel, always with an eye in the country, it was no surprise to find that Fred Eager, by now for the country customer, who would receive prompt attention. billed as Queensland’s star motor car performer, with his Overland was one of 39 contestants in the Sydney to Brisbane reliability contest. This also involved a petrol consumption test, held over four days in October 1920. Competitors travelled to Singleton on the first day, to Armidale the next, reached Warwick on the third and finished at Brisbane’s Albert Square. All four Overlands in the race finished on time, but Wally Webb’s Overland was the one to chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 49

prove that for petrol consumption there was no other car to touch the brand. Advertisements for some time afterwards pressed home the advantage.

‘We specialise in Motor Body Building, Painting, Trimming, Panelling, Smith Work, New Car Bodies built to any design.’

One who remembered these days was Wilfred Alexander (Bill) Green who started what would be a long career with Eagers, at Newstead in 1921 when his brother George Green was in charge. His first car was an Overland roadster and in the family tradition, he was totally committed to the Company, and to success. Both would rise to the top of the firm. Bill Green remembered back to the days of making pistons in the Engineering Shop for the car Fred Eager drove on the Southport beach. Such were the comparatively carefree days of early motoring that he did not recall ever having to get a licence when he first drove his Overland roadster, for after all, ‘there was little police presence’. The Motor Traders’ Team for a cricket match in 1921. In the front row from left The industry was not all work, and a good instance of this was to right are: Messrs Barnes, Dutton, Joss, Dodwell (Capt.), Morris and Evers. a cricket match between the Motor Traders and the Motor Tyre Standing are the umpires: at right, A.H. Knight (Editor, Steering Wheel), and at left, A.E. Jones (Sec. A.C.Q.). In the top row are: Messrs Butterworth, Association, held on the Exhibition Oval on 16 February 1921: Cossey, Snell, George Green who played ‘in a masterly fashion’, Kyme, and the Hon. T.M. Hall MLC. A.V. Dodwell (President of the Motor Traders’ Association) captained the Motor Traders, and Mr. J.G. Braillard (President of the Motor Tyre Association) acted in the same capacity for the Motor Tyre Association Team. Winning the toss, Mr. Dodwell decided to send his team in to bat, and sent in Messrs. Snell and George Green to open the innings. Of the first six batsmen only George Green was able to stand up to the bowling and he played in masterly fashion, scoring all round the wicket. Mr. F. Evers and Mr. E.M. Tooth opened for the Tyre Association to the bowling of Mr G. Green and Mr. L.T.S. Morris. The start was disastrous as with only five runs on the board Mr. Evers was beaten and bowled by a beautiful length ball sent down by Mr. G. Green. In the second innings the Motor Traders showed to much better advantage, and made 139 for five, of which George Green

contributed 42 not out. Putting plenty of power behind his George Green, Manager of Eagers, with an Overland at Bluff Rock, strokes Mr. Green made 17 runs in one over. south of Tenterﬁeld. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 34260) A ﬁne advertisement for the Willys Knight came with the visit made by the Prince of Wales to America. The main photograph was used on the cover of Steering Wheel in September 1922:

H.R.H. The Prince of Wales in His Willys-Knight Car. Everyone who read of the visit of the Prince of Wales to America knows how thoroughly he went into every detail of everything which was brought under his notice. Amongst other things he had the opportunity of seeing many types of American motor cars and of conversation with their owners. In view of these facts it is very significant that when on the eve of his departure from America His Royal Highness selected a motor car out of the many makes offering his choice went to the Willys-Knight car. This is reported to be the first and only American-built motor car the Prince has ever owned, and his selection of it as “the best car that is to be found in the United States”. A Willys-Knight enthusiast in London seeing the picture which we reproduce, remarked – “A Prince of Princes and a Royal motor.” (Steering Wheel, May 1921)

George Green attended the A Review of the Activities of E.G. Eager & Son: Every visitor ﬁfth annual dinner of the who saw the Overland exhibit at the recently-held Royal Motor Traders’ Association Agricultural Show was doubtless impressed by the neat, compact of Queensland held in the Brisbane Club rooms on and business-like appearance of the car, but few had any real 4 August 1921. He was idea of the organisation which stands behind the Overland in made president in 1924. Queensland. The names of E.G. Eager and Son and Overland cars are synonymous throughout Queensland, and the ﬁrm’s reputation has doubtless been a great factor in popularising the car throughout the State. A long list of victories in competitions of various kinds stands to the credit of Mr. F.Z. Eager in his famous Overland “Whitey,” and today the Overland record, Brisbane to Sydney, remains unbeaten.

The cover of Steering The Company’s slogan was: ‘No engineering job is too big and none Wheel, September 1922, too small to be undertaken and carried through with precision and features the enormously popular HRH the Prince of care.’ Facilities to ensure this service was feasible included a fully Wales, in a Willys Knight equipped repair shop, a battery re-charging department, a well car during his trip to equipped engineering shop, and an oxy-acetylene welding plant. America. A contemporary The motor body building department was capable of building caption read: ‘He is here seen with Admiral Halsey, a body for any type or make of car, while a complete range of and a couple of dignitaries Overland spare parts was available day and night, and could be whose names have despatched to any area on request. escaped us; and judging by his expression, he is well pleased with the Willys-Knight.’ THE EAGER SERVICE. At the back of all this organisation is a realisation of the true meaning of the word service as applied to the motor business. The moment a car pulls up outside the showroom or is driven into the garage the owner is made to feel that the whole Eager organisation is at his disposal. It matters not whether it is the ﬁtting of a new plug or a complete overhaul which is required the same courtesy is extended, and the customer is made to feel that his business is valued and no attention is too great to be extended to him. On the principle that courtesy is the soul of business the Eager service has been developed, and its value is never lost sight of.

With the installation of further plant it is now in a position to handle all classes of engineering work. Duplicate parts for all makes of cars are manufactured and this has already proved a boon to many country motorists with the older makes of cars.

George Green was gaining a high proﬁle in Queensland, billed in 1921 as ‘The Guiding Hand at E.G. Eager and Son’, taking part in the RACQ annual fun run to Southport, and in the petrol consumption contests, visiting the Northern Rivers District of A section of the Eagers Machine Shop in 1921. New South Wales, and attending conferences in Sydney, often (Steering Wheel, September 1921) taking the place of Fred Eager during the latter’s frequent business trips interstate and abroad:

Mr. G.E. Green has been in Sydney attending a conference of Overland agents. The reduction in price of the Overland car by the manufacturers led to the summoning of the conference, where it was decided to pass the reduction on to the purchaser immediately. Mr. Green made a remarkably fast trip overland from Sydney to Brisbane in a Willys-Knight car.

George Green by 1921 billed as the guiding hand at Eagers. (Steering Wheel, September 1921)

George Green seated on the steps of the Grand Hotel at Southport during a weekend outing by the Automobile Club of Queensland. (Green Family Archive) 52 A DRIVING FORCE

Added to this were his trips to local shows, such as Toowoomba, in the interests of the firm, and his trips out west to ensure that Longreach Motor Company, his far flung buyers and their vehicles were not neglected. Now Longreach, c.1920. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 15608) the Model 4 Overland had been added to the range, enticing the public with its promise of pre-war price. To illustrate the suitability of their product to the bush, Eagers from time to time featured letters to the firm written by satisfied customers. A letter to Eagers from Horn & Nowland, Winton, Queensland, dated 28 February 1922 and forwarded ‘quite gratuitously and without solicitation to Messrs. E.G. Eager & Sons, the Overland agents’, read:

I am enclosing herewith a snap of one of your Model 45 Overlands which is running on the Winton-Middleton mail service here, a distance of 110 miles, for which we are the contractors. The photo shows the car ready to leave on the 22nd of February, 1922, and the weight of 35 cwt carried is made up as follows:- Parcels and goods - weighed 10 cwt. Longreach Motor Company, c.1920. 8 passengers - estimated total weight 10 cwt. 32 bags of mails, (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 15610) passengers’ luggage, spare benzine, spare tyres, tubes, &c., 15 cwt. -- 35 cwt. The car is shod with Dunlop Railroads and the trip was done without any engine trouble or blow out.

Another satisﬁed customer was Dr Cecil Cook of Barcaldine. He conducted a medical survey of the Northern Territory in 1925, travelling ‘quite alone’ over thousands of miles of bush tracks and hundreds of miles of ‘no-road’, in an Overland worth £220 supplied by Eagers. ‘The whole journey was completed without any mechanical trouble whatsoever.’

George Green had visited the Longreach Motor Company, in western Queensland, to encourage them to handle Overlands ‘practically exclusively’. Inside the ofﬁce of the Longreach Motor Company, c.1920. Another constant visitor to the western districts was Bill Green, who An Overland sign is remembered well the early days of Eagers, and of motoring, when a prominently displayed. driver carried his own spare fuel on the long trips over dirt roads, and (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 15611) the distances covered between dealerships were long and demanding. During his western trips he came back to Brisbane every six weeks. He recalled competing in an early Motor Gymkhana in St George, where he won a silver cigarette case inscribed with the date of the event, 28 September 1926, an item for which he had little use out west, ‘as made cigarettes dried out too easily’. Ever practical, and with a keen eye for business, in St George he stayed at an hotel ‘right next to the dealer’ overlooking the river. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 53

A happy staff had been part of the Eager philosophy from the beginning and the annual Eagers picnic was a carefully thought out occasion. Steering Wheel recorded such a day in 1922, one of many occasions when staff friendships were nurtured:

E.G. Eager & Son, Limited. ANNUAL OVERLAND PICNIC: Last week the management of E.G. Eager & Son, Ltd., distributors in Queensland of the Overland cars, tendered their annual picnic to the staff. Tents were pitched at Wellington Point, and a ﬂeet of cars and a motor launch were made available for the transportation of the big body of employees. On arrival on Saturday afternoon it was found that Maurice Horen, famous as a cook, had quite excelled himself, and everybody started off the holiday with a very solid foundation. Ideal weather favoured the picnickers during the three days’ stay and many ﬁshing and swimming parties were arranged, and on Monday a sports programme was carried out, the principal events and winners being - Hop, Step and Jump - won by W. Green. Overland Handicap, 80 yards - Won by O. Lippold. Overland Championship, 80 yards - E. Jones. Married Men’s Handicap, 80 yards - E.V. Gustavason. Consolation prize - won by Fred Eager, goanna in hand, beside an Overland at Goonoo Goonoo, near Tamworth, New South Wales in 1923. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 125926) Roy Newton. The happy holiday makers returned to Brisbane on Monday evening and voted the outing a great success.

Meanwhile, that year in the south, Fred Eager was consolidating his Australian way of life by taking a new Sydney bride. The Sydney Morning Herald on 7 July 1922 recorded the event:

Weddings: Eager-Worth. The marriage was celebrated by the Rev. Grant Forsyth, at the Presbyterian Church, Paddington, yesterday, of Miss Audrey Worth, daughter of Mrs. Worth, Melbourne, to Mr. Fred. Z. Eager, son of the late E.G. Eager (Sydney) and Mrs. Eager, Toledo, U.S.A. The bride wore a gown of cream georgette and Limerick lace, trimmed with silver ﬂowers, a white georgette hat, and white fox furs. She carried a bouquet of white ﬂowers. Miss G. Reay, the bridesmaid, was dressed in mole jersey silk, with pink and silver tissue hat and carried a pink bouquet. Mr. Arthur Burch was best man. The bridegroom’s gift to the bride was a platinum wrist watch studded with diamonds, and to the bridesmaid a diamond initial bracelet. The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr Percy Reay of Coogee. The wedding breakfast, at which only near relatives and intimate friends were entertained, was held at the Bondi Hotel. Subsequently Mr. and Mrs. Eager left

for Brisbane, en route for Java, Siam Straits Settlements, China and Photograph taken by Fred Eager, c.1923, during a trip through Spicer’s Gap Japan. The bride travelled in a grey tricotine frock trimmed with showing Harry Rapson, driving, with George Green in an early Overland. nutria fur and hat to match. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 196849) 54 A DRIVING FORCE

As did the Bulletin on 13 July 1922:

Audrey Worth, a bright Melbourne girl originally trained by Jennie Brenan, and one of the principals of that energetic lady’s notable Juvenile Opera Co. of some years ago, married Fred Z. Eager, a popular member of the American colony in Sydney the other day. Fred Z. hails from Toledo, Ohio, and boasts that he was taught in Sunday-school by a sister of “Hop.” When the pair return from a tour of the East they will not have to go house or ﬂat hunting for he has had a home of his own at Bellevue Hill for several years.

Audrey Eager, with her husband, would in time play a large role in the social life of Brisbane, often photographed at the North Coast and at the Gold Coast, and lending great style and expertise to the entertainments organised by the ﬁrm.

At the firm’s headquarters the resignation of A.J. White as a Director was accepted. Maurice V. Horen and George Watt Ogilvie were appointed Directors. A great project was underway, and to this end the purchase of the property adjoining the Breakfast Creek Road Works Department for £900 cash was confirmed. A motor car assembly line, the first of its kind in Queensland was to be constructed at Newstead, no longer were fully assembled cars the order of the day, and soon all stock would arrive ‘CKD’ or ‘completely knocked down’.

By early 1923 Fred Eager was back from a tour of the East, which included many visits to important trade centres, to supervise operations in Brisbane before returning to the south:

The Changing East. Impressions of a Tour just completed by Mr. F.Z. Eager, Australian Representative of the Willys-Overland Corp., U.S.A. Still wearing his characteristic smile, Mr. F.Z. Eager stepped ashore in Brisbane from the s.s. Houtman on March 2 at the close of a prolonged tour through the East in the interests of the Willys-Overland Corporation, of U.S.A. Some idea of the distance covered will be gathered from the fact that the itinerary included visiting Java, Singapore, Saigon, Haiphong, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Pekin, Muckden, Dairen, Seoul, Korea, Japan, Manila, Bangkok, Penang, back to Java, and home to Brisbane.

George Green, one of the Headlights of the Motor World in 1923. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 55

His report included the difﬁculties in China and Japan, ‘prospects At the 1924 Motor Traders’ Association of Queensland of big business in the Federated Malay States’ while ‘in the Annual Dinner: Philippines business is booming’. In a very able speech Mr. Green reviewed the position of the Meanwhile George Green had been preparing the way to set up motor trade during the past year and the present and future operations in Townsville and Northern Queensland during the prospects. As President of the Association he called upon everyone latter part of April, returning to Brisbane early in May 1923. His connected with the trade to help in making the Association as strong as possible and by so doing strengthen their own position. portrait was included in the Daily Mail 1923 Christmas Special To country members he made a special appeal to take as keen an Motor Supplement, ‘Headlights of the Motor World’. interest as possible in the activities of the Association, so that they By 1924 he had visited Adelaide early in the year, where his may feel themselves just as much a part of the organisation as the brother Bill Green was, had returned to North Queensland, ﬁtted importers in Brisbane. in a trip to Sydney, and had returned to Adelaide for a conference Eagers was busy with the introduction of the new Overland Six, of Overland dealers, all described as ‘speeding the Overland and priced at approximately £355, with ‘Six cylinder value’. There operations’. At the end of the year he was made President of the were also the new Federal Knight trucks, and the Overland one ton Motor Traders’ Association of Queensland. Fred Eager was not to truck to be promoted. Commercial vehicles had become a large be forgotten, and the motoring journals from time to time pointed part of the business, with a separate truck department managed by out just how much was owed to him by motorists in the opening Len Ward. Adequate stocks of spare parts were carried not only at up of new districts in the state. Newstead but by all the country agents.

Overland and Willys-Knight Club Run to Clear View Mountain, Samford and Eaton Crossing, showing the cars assembled at the summit of Mount Clear. ‘A general meeting of members was held and the election of Mr. F.Z. Eager as Patron and Mr. G.E. Green as President was conﬁrmed.’ (Steering Wheel, January 1925) ‘The attractive display illustrated above was that of Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son Ltd., at In 1925 the sheer scope of the market was apparent. ‘Big ﬂeet of cars invade the recent Exhibition in Brisbane. In front of the stand will be noticed a small show-card on Bundaberg - seventeen Overlands make Trip from Brisbane. Some Excellent Mileages which the words “One Million Cars” is just discernible.’ The Willys-Overland Corporation Recorded.’ This was the scene across the road from Messrs. Eager and Son’s Factory, had by 1923 built and sold over a million cars. (Steering Wheel, August 1923) Newstead, Brisbane, a few minutes before the start on Saturday, 19 September 1925.

One day’s delivery of Overland cars ready for despatch to the Wide Bay and Burnett districts ‘To commemorate a record year of trading, the Directors of Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son Ltd. gave of Queensland in 1925. The line stretches right down Evelyn Street at Newstead, outside a dinner to their employees at the Roof Garden of Finney, Isles & Co. Those present included Eagers’ workshops. (Steering Wheel, March 1925) Messrs. F.Z. Eager, director; G.E. Green, managing director; W.J. O’Sullivan, director; the heads of the various departments, and the staff. During the evening Mr. G.E. Green, managing director, thanked the staff for their loyal co-operation in the activities of the firm during the past year. Record success, he said had attended their efforts, and he trusted that the good feeling and active co-operation and interest in the firm’s business would continue in the years which lay ahead. A very pleasant evening was spent, in which the future success of the firm was the dominant keynote of the speeches delivered.’ (Steering Wheel, January 1926) A Federal-Knight truck from Eagers used by Overells, the large Valley department store. George Green featured in the Steering Wheel Picture Gallery as the newly re-elected President of the Motor Traders’ Association of Queensland. ‘Mr. Green, in company with Mr. F.Z. Eager and other Overland Distributors in Australia, recently paid a visit to America and England in the Overland interests.’ (Steering Wheel, October 1925) 58 A DRIVING FORCE

With the absence of George Green, on a trip to America with Expansion was very necessary. It was thought to be time a suitably Fred Eager, in April 1925 Archie Robert Douglas Hogg and furnished Board Room was provided. The need for increased Thomas Edward Mulcahy were elected as alternate Directors for accommodation for a city Sales Room led to discussion with Isles the duration of the trip. Robert John Dollar was appointed acting Love about a possible site on the corner of Creek and Adelaide Secretary. George Ogilvie had resigned as Secretary because of Streets, an idea later abandoned, and it was proposed to add a ill-health, and was permanently replaced by Robert Dollar. It was second storey to the Breakfast Creek Road premises to provide for a decided to furnish at meetings and send out to absent Directors as Board Room and Managing Director’s Ofﬁce. For many years their well a statement of the month’s trading and sales report showing main City Showroom was Horsham House, in Adelaide Street. models of cars sold, as well as a ﬁnancial statement. By the end of 1925 a tender had been accepted from F. H. Groch for £979 for extension to the Austin Street premises. Work was to start on 19 November and to be completed by 15 December 1925. By late the following year the new premises at Breakfast Creek Road had been completed, and also alterations to the Austin Street Assembly Works. Plans were being prepared for a wood and iron addition to the Assembly Works on the Austin Street frontage.

Great innovations were seen by George Green in America, to be described in Steering Wheel:

In most of the large cities visited the traffic is controlled from a central station where an officer is situated operating a large switchboard. The main thoroughfares have central towers on which lights flash at regular intervals, a green light means “go ahead,” a red light “stop.” These towers can be seen from a distance and are placed at intervals of two or four blocks, the intermediate section being controlled by the usual erratic constable.

[The writer of the article] took the opportunity of paying a visit of inspection to Messrs. Eager’s Factory at Newstead, Brisbane, where the Overland cars for the whole of the State are assembled. To those who are mechanically bent, no afternoon could be better spent, for here the cars are not assembled, as the term is generally understood, but are actually built up from the various units. Like most motorists I was under the impression that the motor industry in Australia consisted of body building (somewhere in South Australia or Victoria) and the ﬁtting of the body to the imported chassis. Friday’s visit to Messrs. Eager and At far left is Horsham House, Adelaide Street, seen Son rather changed my views on the subject, for here we have from near the Wharf Street corner c.1920. Eagers’ a factory which assembles each part. In passing it might also be City Showroom was here until November 1927. mentioned that a huge building scheme is now under way which, (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 124823) when completed, will house one of the most up-to-date plants in Queensland, and the present output of some twenty cars per day will then be greatly increased. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 59

EAGERS TOWNSVILLE Records of the Company for 1926 show that ownership of the Strand Motor Company in Townsville dates from that time, and that this was the first branch established by the Company. Premises were acquired by Eagers on The Strand, opposite the Seaview Hotel, and the branch commenced operations on 12 May 1926. The name was carried on from the previous owners, who had supplied Willys Knight cars from early in 1925, and who had been burnt out in a disastrous fire, reported in the Australasian and Banking Record that month to have been caused by faulty wiring. ‘On the early morning of 2nd January the Strand Motor Company’s premises at Townsville, with seven cars, were completely destroyed by fire, but four cars, to the value of £1120 Eagers Townsville was were saved.’ William (Bill) Ikin, who had been manager of Strand formed in 1926 with Motors at the time of the fire, was appointed by Eagers as the first William (Bill) Ikin the manager in Townsville. first Manager.

In 1926 an Overland Dealers Conference and Dinner was held in Brisbane:

During Exhibition week in Brisbane, opportunity was taken by the management of the firm of E.G. Eager and Sons to hold a conference of their city sales staff, country dealers and zone representatives throughout the State. The one dominant note sounded throughout the conference was the confidence engendered in the minds of country dealers by the absolute fairness of those responsible for the conduct of the business of E.G Eager and Son. At the invitation of the Managing Director (Mr E.G. Green) and the directors, the country dealers and sales staff were entertained at a dinner and theatre party during the week. Mr. Green, speaking on behalf of the firm of E.G. Eager and Son, expressed regret at the unavoidable absence of Mr. F.Z. Eager. Only the most urgent business calls had prevented Mr. Eager from being with them. Mr. Green stressed the importance of complete confidence between importer and dealer, and of unity of action and purpose throughout. “The firm”, he said, “would stand behind their dealers, and in return they looked for loyalty and zeal. He was confident they had a range of models to offer second to none, and consequently looked for bigger business during the coming year.” (Steering Wheel, April 1926) Announcement of the arrival of Eagers, in the Advertisement from Townsville Daily Bulletin, 10 January 1927. Townsville Daily Bulletin, (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 130567) 24 April 1926. 60 A DRIVING FORCE

The Strand Motor Company in Townsville was bought by Eagers in 1926 to become Strand Motors. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 110869)

The Jumping Overland Car, from which the hood and windscreen have been removed. The Overland Jumping Car, and its driver, believed to be manager Bill Ikin, ‘Proof absolute of the ﬂexibility of the Overland springs.’ Demonstrations were arranged photographed outside Eagers. Note the Eagers monogram in the background. by W.C. Dobson, district manager for E.G. Eager & Son Ltd, and took place in Lismore, (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 63336) Murwillumbah, Byron Bay and Tweed Heads, to refute any rumour that the Overland suspension was inadequate. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 193841) chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 61

THE OVERLAND WHIPPET An important new product from Overland was launched by Eagers on 15 September 1926. The Courier Mail reported that the Company had ‘engaged’ the spacious showrooms of Smellie and Co, situated opposite the General Post Ofﬁce in Queen Street, so that a large crowd could be catered for and a suitable reception given to launch this new light car, that had so far ‘created a furore of enthusiasm throughout America’. This was the Whippet, and an intense advertising campaign heralded its arrival.

The New Overland Whippet Model:

The new Whippet termed a Masterstroke in Engineering. British and American Light Car features amalgamated. To combine all that is best in the construction of the British light car of to-day with all that is best in the present day American light car was the task which John N. Willys, of the Willys Overland Corporation, set himself. How well he has succeeded has been recognised by everyone who has inspected the latest product of the Willys Overland factory - the new Overland Whippet. The general appearance gives the idea of a light, yet big car. This is exactly what it is. A small car, yet roomy enough to carry ﬁve adult passengers in perfect comfort.

The top of the hood is only 68 inches from the ground, yet A Whippet chassis on display at Smellie’s Buildings, then opposite the the roominess throughout exceeds that of any previous model GPO in Queen Street. The story was covered in the Daily Standard, Overland. (Steering Wheel, September 1926) 23 September 1926.

A report of a meeting of the company held on 11 October 1926 records: ‘It was noted that the new model 96 Overland Four cylinder car known as the “Whippet” was placed on the market on Sept 15th and met with a most enthusiastic reception.’

This was to be just a small indication of the very great impact that the Whippet would have on the motoring world, and on Eagers. A later Chairman of Directors, Hugh Corley, who had joined Eagers in 1924, one of 200 young men who answered the advertisement for a Cadet Salesman, has written about the introduction of the Whippet to Queensland:

The real emergence of the Overland car in Queensland began in 1926 with the introduction of the Overland Whippet, model 96 - a four cylinder 15.6 H.P., high revving motor fed by a down-draught “Tillotsen” carburettor. This vehicle was the ﬁrst in Queensland to have four wheel brakes - it was equipped with semi-elliptic springs. Three new Overland Whippets drawn up outside Eagers at Newstead c.1926. It had a low centre of gravity and was a very easy car to handle. Without doubt it was the best mass-produced car of its era. 62 A DRIVING FORCE

Whippet dog racing was almost unknown in Queensland but it was popular in Victoria, so a champion Whippet dog, pure white in colour with a black “saddle” - similar in image to the one used in the advertising, was purchased and brought to Brisbane. Prince Owa was his pedigree name. He answered to “Joey”.

Whippet dog racing as an amateur sport was promoted and became popular almost overnight as a side attraction at both day and evening entertainment. Joey dominated these races and became famous not only for the ribbons he won - he of course became the Whippet dog the car was named after.

The Whippet car also dominated the Royal Automobile Clubs events. Hill-climbing, petrol consumption, acceleration and

The whippet dog, Prince Owa, reliability tests - sales of the car grew at such a rate that deliveries ‘bred in the purple’, was bought to purchasers were delayed sometimes as much as a year ahead by Eagers, agents for the Overland with Dealers throughout Queensland and Northern Rivers Whippet, and was the centrepiece for some clever advertisements. At District clamouring for stock to satisfy their clients. The selling one stage the evening paper, the price was £230, and at one time they were advertised at £199.10. Telegraph announced that the dog was lost in the nearby suburb of Increased Interest in Whippet Racing: Hamilton. Any finder was to please Advertisement for The Whippet return Prince Owa to the Eagers from the Daily Standard, Brisbane, The term “Whippet” was a common word in Great Britain long Head Office, or to telephone 13 September 1926. Central 6120. before it was used to designate small tanks used in the war. It was coined there originally to designate a special breed of racing dog which resembles the greyhound, but is smaller. The “Whippet” is, in fact, a cross between a terrier and an Italian greyhound. The racing Whippets started as a popular sport in the colliery regions of Northern England. The sport has spread from there to all quarters of the globe and is now very popular in aristocratic They were imported two unassembled chassis to a case. The package also included the motor’s gear box, diffs, axle housing circles. Owners usually keep a kennel of these dogs and treat and wheels, and were assembled by Eagers at their Newstead them with the same care as is given racehorses. The Whippet, first Plant. An American-type track assembly line had been used for coursing wild rabbits, inherits from the greyhound and constructed and was operated in the then American manner. terrier its speed and tenacity. Those qualities are cultivated from It was the first of such tracks in Queensland. Tyres, batteries puppyhood until its first race - usually run when the dog is nine and bodies were purchased from Australian sources. Bodies or ten months old. The new type Overland motor car, because were made at various Body Plants throughout Australia, and of its qualities of speed, power, agility and endurance, has very locally at Brisbane but mainly at Adelaide, South Australia. appropriately been named after this famous racing animal, The Whippet was a sensation. Its performance from all points “The Whippet,” and the world-wide publicity given this of view was outstanding. The promotion in Queensland was attractive new car has also centred public interest on the sport also outstanding. of Whippet racing. (Steering Wheel, September 1927) chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 63

Entrance to 1 and 2 Storage Bays from Evelyn Street. Automobiles made in Toledo, Ohio, U.S.A., still in their boxes, ready for assembly at Eagers. ‘Showing storage bays for chasses and body cases. Covering a floor area of approx. 3750 square feet and allowing chasses cases to be stacked five high. A travelling hoist is installed and is fitted with a 3½ ton Morris electric lift.’

Overland boxes are opened and a Whippet chassis emerges, c.1926. Chassis on assembly line ready for spraying. 64 A DRIVING FORCE

Whippet chassis, showing the petrol tank at the rear. Whippet chassis, showing the petrol tank, with fuel cap (at left) and fuel gauge (at right).

Whippet chassis on the assembly line. ‘Showing portion of storage bay for complete bodies of all models, covering a ﬂoor area of approx. 5400 square feet. A special trolley has been constructed so that one man can handle a body of any model. The trolley is made high enough to allow the body standing end on to be self balancing on to the trolley, provision is also made for cushions, bonnet and hood as shows, the bonnet section being padded to prevent scratching.’ The bodies are stacked vertically, to save space. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 65

Whippet bodies on the Eagers assembly line. Whippet engines: ‘Engine line where all valves are ground in, the clutch removed, rust cleaned off and clutch plate set and reassembled.’

The Whippet name is just visible on the radiator mounted on the chassis, ready ‘All bolts, nuts, rivets and washers are sorted on this bench and go through the tubes for the body, in the background, to be lowered on to it. In the foreground the to their respective tins. The racks of tins showing in this photograph are for parts to running board and mudguard are ready to be bolted in place. be checked into, for operations such as assembling of engine, wiring of bodies and ﬁnishing off. Note the chassis spraying bottles at the side of the sorting bench.’ 66 A DRIVING FORCE

‘Showing the rim and wheel racks which run from the opening of the chassis The end of the assembly line. Overland Whippets at Eagers. cases to end of the assembling line.’ Wheels with rims and tyres ﬁtted are being painted before ﬁtting to the chassis.

Overland Whippets at the end of the assembly line. The Eagers No. 17 complete car storage bay where approximately 150 cars could be parked. At far right is a Willys Knight, showing the distinctive mascot of a knight in armour, and beside it, a Whippet. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 67

Eagers promoted the Whippet throughout Queensland. (Townsville Daily Bulletin, 21 March 1928)

A train load of Overland Whippet cars from the Eagers assembly plant at Newstead on consignment to Central and Northern Queensland. Advertising signs on the rail trucks testify to the popularity of the car.

Great conﬁdence in the Overland car. Fred Z. Eager in 1927. (Green Studios photographs, reproduced by courtesy of Peter Cox.) In Brisbane there is a noted set of stairs rising sharply from Edward Street alongside the Trades Hall Building up to Wickham Terrace, and having 8 ﬂights of 10 stairs each, Mr. W.A. Green, “Bill”, a brother of the late Sir George, together with the writer, thought a good promotional stunt would be to drive a Whippet up this stairway and then, to prove the value of four wheel brakes, drive it down.

One morning at about 3 a.m. we went to have a trial run to see if it could be done and after driving up three or four ﬂights decided that was enough proof, and backed down. Now to get permission, the City Council Clerk thought we were mad but said the stairway did not come under Council Control – see the Trafﬁc Police we were told. The Inspector there said they had no control over the stairway – see the City Council. So with this indecision we decided to give it a go without permission.

Cameras were set up in the little park adjoining the stairway and at lunchtime, when plenty of people were moving around, Bill Green charged the Whippet up the stairway, and twisting and turning was managing very well - for the ﬁrst part of the journey. Then it began to bump and bang, moving up three stairs and back one. The Whippet eventually reached the top, and seeing Police appearing from all angles, and crowds of people approaching, after a quick look down the stairway we decided “enough was enough” and drove off back to Headquarters at Newstead where we discovered that the draining plug had been knocked out of the differential housing and we had left a trail of grease along the way. That episode hit the headlines throughout Queensland and Australia. (Hugh Corley)

Wilfred Alexander (Bill) A promotional stunt on Green, the skilful driver. 1 March 1928: Bill Green driving an Overland Whippet up the steep flight of steps in inner city Brisbane, known as Jacob’s Ladder. The original idea was to drive it up and then down, but as police arrived ‘from all angles’, the driver and his passenger Hugh Corley quickly headed off back to Newstead. ‘Leaving Brisbane G.P.O. on 2nd October, 1926, in a Guaranteed Stock There was no official retribution and the local press enthused Model Overland Whippet, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Dorney, about the sturdiness of the Whippet’s chassis and the tenacious of Brisbane, returned pulling power of the engine, as the car ‘pursued a zig-zag course in home on Saturday, order to cut out wheel chatter’. Hugh Corley wondered later what 26th March, 1927, having completely might have happened had they carried out their original intention encircled Australia in of driving back down the stairway and ‘just why the Builder of the One Car without the stairway made the final flights so much steeper’. Although any mechanical two years earlier a Kegresse Drive Citroën, with its solid rubber troubles whatsoever.’ (Steering Wheel, ‘tractors’, had been driven up the same stairs, the Whippet stunt April 1927) was a splendid achievement for a conventional car and it became part of Queensland’s motoring history.

A great adventure and a unique honeymoon in 1926 generated enormous publicity, especially for Eagers and the Overland Whippet. Jack and Muriel Dorney left in October 1926, with calico bags full of provisions, and arrived home in March the following year, apparently with no mechanical problems, thanks to the model’s faultless construction. ‘Worse trials than any car would ever be subjected to in Queensland were over come easily, and the Whippet has come through without a scratch.’

Muriel Dorney published an account of this early motoring trek in 1928. An Adventurous Honeymoon. The ﬁrst motor honeymoon around Australia, gives a graphic description of what motoring fever, and Whippet fever in particular, could lead to, as well as illustrating the types of conditions that those involved in motoring could expect. Her photographs show the Whippet in every type of terrain. Inside the back cover of the book is a list of the Overland and Willys Knight distributors in Australia in 1928, headed by Eagers in Queensland; also Overland in Sydney, Melbourne and in Adelaide, Adams Motors Ltd in Perth, and Heathorn Motors Ltd in Hobart.

Muriel Dorney’s 1928 account of her motoring honeymoon around Australia in a Whippet.

‘The Continent Conqueror!’ Jack and Muriel Dorney, newly-married, leave Brisbane’s GPO on 2 October 1926 for an around Australia honeymoon trip in an Overland Whippet. (Steering Wheel, April 1927) The Willys-Knight Six as an Ambulance Car. Anyone who knows how difﬁcult the roads on the Downs can be after a spell of wet weather will fully appreciate the solid testimony of the reliability and all-round efﬁciency which the Toowoomba Ambulance Brigade gave to the new Willys-Knight Six when they chose that make of car. The Queensland Distributors of Willys-Knight products - Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son, Ltd., Newstead, Brisbane - will be glad to furnish further information to any ambulance centre in the State who are anxious to bring their equipment up- to-date. (Steering Wheel, December 1926)

More notoriety for Fred Eager’s famous ‘Whitey’ came in 1927, when it was advertised for sale by Rapson & Dutton.

Speed! The Famous Overland Racer Whitey No. 3 For Sale. What a thrill to sit behind the wheel of this racer, the holder of the dirt track record, and touch 90 miles an hour when you feel like speed. At Maroubra Speedway “Whitey” recently covered a lap at 95 miles per hour. The owner and driver, Don. J. Harkness, Queenslander, 26 July 1928. Brisbane’s Sunday Truth features George (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 159070) Green, Manager of Eagers, in 1927. now offers this six cylinder car in perfect order, complete with supercharger, six wheels, three sets of ﬁnal drive gearing, and a quantity of spares for £485 nett. When it is considered that the car actually cost £950 it will be realised what an amazing bargain is at your disposal. For further particulars apply to Mr. R. Dutton.

EAGER SERVICE TRUCK

The Eager Service Truck is ready to come at the call of any motorist who has his car disabled at any time of the day or night. No job is too small nor is any smash so complete that it cannot be safely and expertly handled.

The “Eager” Service: A visit to the workshop is a revelation in efficiency. The whole of the workshop operations are carried out under the personal supervision and direction of Mr. W.G. Webb, who is well known throughout the motor industry of Queensland, and who is recognised as one of the most expert motor mechanics in the State. Consequently, motor owners can, with perfect confidence, entrust their car or truck repair or overhaul work to the firm. With the object of keeping their position in the front rank as a recognised service station, and of rendering that service Audrey Eager beside a Willys Knight, in Steering Wheel, 1 May 1927. The image was as efficiently as the latest mechanical knowledge and equipment featured as well in The Queensland Motorist, 14 April 1927 captioned: ‘Mrs. F.Z. Eager, can make it so, the firm has recently equipped a service truck with wife of Mr. Fred Z. Eager, who is American representative of the Willys-Overland every modern appliance for the work. In the event of striking Corporation, and Chairman of Directors of E.G. Eager and Son, Brisbane. Mr. and Mrs. Eager reside in Sydney.’ (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 126070) chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 71

trouble with his car on the road, or of a breakdown or accident, a motorist need no longer be stranded. All that is necessary is to ring up E.G. Eager and Son’s service station, Central 6120, and at a few moments’ notice the service truck shown in the illustration In-house towing: the Service on the opposite page is on its way to his assistance. If the car Car of E.G. Eager & Son. should be one of the models handled by the firm of E.G. Eager (Steering Wheel, June 1927) and Son, and a spare part is required, the truck will bring out that spare part at any time of the day or night. If the car should be one for which some other firm are distributors, and a spare part is required, it will be brought out if it is in any way possible to procure it at the time. The charges for the use of mechanic and truck are as light as possible, as will be seen from the schedule of prices given on the opposite page. Don’t, therefore, waste hours on the road lamenting if you strike trouble with your car. Don’t leave it out on the road so that thieves may have an opportunity of removing parts which will cost many pounds to replace, to say nothing of the danger of having the car practically ruined. All that is necessary now is a telephone call to E.G. Eager and Son (Central 6120), and you may sit down and smoke in the fullest confidence and assurance that expert help is speeding to your aid.

Wally Webb had made an extensive tour of England and America in 1925, to study motoring conditions. He had been with Eagers since its inception, and in an interview with Australian Pastoralist in April 1925 he remarked that he was then the oldest employee in the ﬁrm. An English general engineer and motor engineer, he had arrived in Brisbane in November 1911, ‘when cars were very few and far between, and the posts in Queen Street were occupied by tied-up horses’, and had been asked to join as foreman by E.G. Eager himself.

In those days, Mr. Webb said, everybody was elated when they were selling an average of three cars per week, and when they reached the output of twenty cars per month in 1914 everybody thought the progress of the ﬁrm and motoring in Queensland was very rapid. Since then, however, all their calculations had been outstepped and now they were turning out through the new factory over 50 chassis a week.

The year’s results for 1927 were down on the previous one, but showed the Company’s affairs had been very well handled to combat keener opposition and adverse seasons. There was mention Brisbane Courier, 17 August 1927. of general trade depression and the proposed building on the Petrie Bight property was put on hold, although plans for the site had been drawn up by Hall & Prentice. 72 A DRIVING FORCE

selling of cars produced by the Willys-Overland organisation, and it is upon the excellence of these products that it has attained its present prosperity.

In 1927, in pursuance of the wish of the ordinary share holders it was decided to accept the offer made by The John N. Willys Export Corporation to handle the distribution of Stearns and Falcon Knight cars in the States of Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.

This Company has been anxious to retain control of the Knight motored cars coming into this market from America, and this still gives them a monopoly on those lines. With this in view separate companies were formed in Queensland, Victoria and South Australia. The Queensland Company, registered as Knight Motors (Qld) Limited, will handle the Stearns and Falcon Knight cars in Queensland and the Northern Rivers District of New South Wales, the shares in Knight Motors (Qld) Limited will be held by E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. (Steering Wheel, September 1927)

Changes were being made at Eagers. By September 1927 it was decided to lease from Shand Motors the ground floor of Desmond Chambers, Adelaide Street for a city sales room, to provide more commodious premises than Horsham House. ‘The Whippet Car which is attempting to break the World’s Record for continuous Running, which at present stands Necessary alterations were carried out and by November 1927 at 42 days.’ The officials of E.G. Eager & Son Ltd standing beside the car are from left to right: Lawrence Green, Secretary and brother of George and Bill Green; Darcy Amos, Sales Manager; Hugh Corley, Sales Promotion Horsham House had been vacated. The used car department was Manager; and Wallace Webb, Works Superintendent. to be in Collins House, in Adelaide Street. By early in 1928, in Cairns the balance of the purchase price had been paid on land situated at Lake Street and the deeds were being transferred to the Company. In other changes Robert Dollar had resigned as Secretary and employee of the Company, and Lawrence Green, brother of Bill and George Green, was to be appointed acting Eagers was the subject of a long article in the Brisbane Courier Secretary, soon to be Secretary, then acting Director in 1929, on 17 August 1927: while Harry Hood Bentley was appointed Public Officer, and then an alternate Director to replace Robert Dollar. Enterprising Motor Firm. E.G. Eager and Son Ltd.’s Organisation. Modern Ideals of Sales and Service: Not many Records show that George Green, Managing Director since 1925, motor firms, in Brisbane can claim a record of 17 years’ trading during his trip north to Townsville had purchased a lease from the operations. This is the boast of the firm of E.G. Eager and Townsville Harbour Board. It was proposed to build on that land Son, Ltd., whose headquarters are at Newstead, Brisbane, with storage and assembly shops, and this would be used for retailing showrooms and used car department at other parts of the city. and also wholesale distribution of vehicles, as well as to provide Ever since its foundation the firm has been associated with the servicing and spare parts. chapter two – THE PUBLIC WORLD OF MOTORDOM 73

EAGERS MARYBOROUGH Other branches were established in this period, at Gympie, Goondiwindi, Charleville, Maryborough and Bundaberg. George Green was also investigating the possibility of the ﬁrm having marine agencies, many motor car enthusiasts rapidly having become motor boating enthusiasts with himself and Fred Eager at the forefront of the new craze.

George Green reported that the Company had secured the Queensland agencies for ‘Redwing’, ‘Gray’ and ‘Caille’ marine motors, and that the prospects for the marketing of these motors in seaside and river towns were excellent. A Marine Department had been opened from February. The Company had taken over country distribution of Falcon-Knights and Stearns-Knights and it had been decided to open a branch of the Company at Warwick from 10 June 1929. A ﬁve year lease had been obtained from the Royal National Association for an area suitable for exhibition week. In May advice was received of the closing down of Knight-Motors (Vic) Pty Ltd and of Knight-Motors (Qld) Ltd.

Publicity was important and in October 1928 the extent of the Eagers network was demonstrated with a Willys Knight ‘gruelling run’ from Brisbane to Townsville, at an average speed of 27 mph – 37 hours and 42 minutes running time, including opening gates, but not refuelling time. Wally Webb and N. Lochran drove to Maryborough Chronicle, Eagers announcement in the Maryborough Gympie where Messrs Logan and Austin took over; they reached 4 July 1928. Chronicle, 20 June 1928 of their takeover Maryborough in a record 1½ hours where Eagers Manager of the Overland Garage in Lennox Street. Bill Ikin took over the driving to Bundaberg, where local Eagers Manager Mr Frazer took over from him, to Gladstone. Then Messrs Thompson and Tweed drove on to Rockhampton, and so on, with other drivers, until the ﬁnal leg from Ayr to Townsville was completed by G. Boyce from Eagers Townsville.

At the Annual General Meeting in 1929, chaired by Fred Eager he was, as usual, re-elected as Director, and in accepting and expressing thanks for his re-election, took the opportunity of saying that he doubted that any other company in the motor trade showed for that year a better balance sheet. He gave the credit to George Green’s foresight and excellent methods of conducting the business in a trying time. George Green, in expressing appreciation of these remarks stated that the conduct of the business was not a one-man job, that it called for co-operative team work.

Steering Wheel, July 1929. Announcement in the Gympie Times, 20 March 1928: ‘E.G. Eagers have this week opened a branch at Mary Street, Gympie.’ M. Moss of Eagers in His was a good team and all to whom responsibility Brisbane went up to take had been deputed had proved excellent and charge of the branch. capable. He had much pleasure in accepting on behalf of the whole staff the Chairman’s remarks. W.J. O’Sullivan expressed pleasure at the personal attendance of Fred Eager and hoped he would preside at future Annual Meetings.

In July 1929 a special meeting of Directors was called to discuss the worrying trade results of Overland, South Australia Ltd. Decided steps were to be taken to withdraw the investment of E.G. Eager Ltd not later than 31 January 1930. Fred Eager moved a motion

Bill Green (centre) and (at right) to despatch a telegram to Overland S.A. Ltd: ‘In view Fred Eager pose beside a Vauxhall of your stock position as outlined your report June in South Australia c.1929. The thirtieth and recent sales ﬁgures do not place any orders Vauxhall agency was added to during August. Eagers.’ Eagers in 1922, and these English cars greatly suited the By October 1929, a telegram had been received from South Australian market. (Photographed by D. Darian Smith, Fred Eager advising that the resignation of Maurice Glen Osmond, South Australia.) Green from the management of Messrs Overland South Australia Ltd had been accepted and that he personally had taken charge of the business as well as having taken steps to realise on stock.

Bill Green recalled how he had gone to the United States to survey the motor industry, and in particular, the Willys Overland factory in Los Angeles. In 1929 he was in Belgium when he received a cable ‘to pack up and come home’ to take over the Adelaide business. The Depression had affected that city badly, with sales averaging about one car a month. He had ‘Dinner Tendered by G.E. Green met a Sydney girl, Nancy Lee Spencer ‘on the boat’ Esq. To members of the staff of E.G. Eager & Sons Ltd, held at the and they would marry in 1931 in Sydney. National Hotel, 3rd March, 1928. On the occasion of his approaching Fred Eager was a good friend of the Holden family marriage, prior to his departure in Adelaide, and worthwhile contacts could be made. for Adelaide.’ George Green was General Motors-Holdens Ltd was to move into to marry Aisla Beatrice Cane, in Adelaide at the Methodist Church, Queensland, with Eagers as the sole distributor. Malvern, on 17 April 1928. They had met through the Holden family. Left to right: Thomas Mulcahy, Hugh Corley, P.W. Snell, L. Ward, Darcy Amos, H.H. Bentley, George Green, Wallace Webb, J. Morris, B. Whithy, R.W. Raeburn, E.J. Cornwall, R. Vickers, A. athers. (Photographer HB Green.) chapter three

THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR (1930 –1944) Embracing General Motors. Closure of branches. Helping the war effort. 76 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Toowoomba, at 216 Margaret Street, in the 1930s. They could supply ‘a car or a truck for every purse or purpose’. (Toowoomba Chronicle, 6 November 1987) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 77

During a trip to northern parts of Queensland towards the beginning of 1930, George Green had inspected North Western DMotors Pty Ltd, the business of A. Keneally, the Company’s former dealer at Hughenden, in which they were to hold a controlling interest. Another step that year was the opening of a Toowoomba branch in the former Wheat Board building in Margaret Street, where a grain and seed merchant had conducted his business. Here a staff of six was soon employed, and Norman Clough was appointed the ﬁrst Manager of that branch, which was to be a base from which lucrative sales of cars such as Buicks, Chevrolets, Pontiacs and Vauxhalls would be made throughout the Darling Downs. Later the name was changed to Eagers Retail Pty Ltd.

The effects of the Depression were making four cylinder cars an attractive proposition for many and the 1930 Whippet Four, with its tourer priced at £225 was widely advertised by Eagers. Already Nothing imported in this car polish, there were over 6,000 Whippet owners, and the car was seen as available only from Eagers. (Steering Wheel, October 1930) being worthy of the claims made for it by its distributors. For those still after power and speed there was the newly designed 65 horse power Willys Six. Eagers advertised that at their 1930 stand at the General Motors Products. New Distributors Appointed. Motors Thomas Mulcahy, Exhibition there would be a: Manager of Motors Limited Commence Operations. On November 1st an important Ltd, the new firm Special Showing of Whippet Cars at Brisbane Exhibition. change took place in connection with the marketing of General located at 324 E.G. Eager and Son Ltd., Queensland distributors for Whippet, Motors lines for Brisbane and the adjacent South-Eastern Wickham Street, Willys and Willys-Knight cars and trucks, are staging a special Queensland territory. This change consisted of the appointment Fortitude Valley, that was to deal display in their stand at the Exhibition Grounds during Show of the new firm of Motors Limited as metropolitan dealers for solely in General Week, and everyone interested is invited to view this display, the whole of General Motors lines. These lines include such well Motors lines. which will be open each night until 9.30 p.m. known cars as Cadillac, La Salle, Buick, Marquette, Oakland, (Steering Wheel, Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Chevrolet, and Vauxhall and G.M.C. December 1930) Undoubtedly the motor trade was in crisis. With a reduction in Chevrolet, and Vauxhall trucks. The operations of the new firm buying power in both city and country, finance was difficult to of Motors Ltd. will be devoted exclusively to the marketing and acquire, businesses were closing, and there were ominous forecasts. servicing of these lines. Mr. T.E. Mulcahy has been appointed The editor of Steering Wheel thought that the depression in the manager of the new firm, and the directorate includes men whose motor industry in Queensland had reached rock-bottom, and names are household words in the motor world of Queensland. conditions would improve within 12 months. However before then: The entire organisation will be self-contained, and the whole of its An increased tariff and the prohibition of certain imports energies directed along the one channel of marketing the products appertaining to the motor car and its accessories will bring its of General Motors and placing behind that marketing a service own little nest of difficulties, and there will be confusion and such as will be appreciated by present and future owners. Spacious loss of money in certain quarters, while car distributors and premises, located at 324 Wickham Street, Valley, Brisbane, and local manufacturers and suppliers of other items are adjusting previously occupied by the firm of Brisbane Cars and Tractors themselves to the new conditions...Lastly, many firms will have Ltd., have been opened, and a complete range of these cars and to acknowledge quite frankly that they are over-capitalised. trucks are assembled on the showroom floor. 78 A DRIVING FORCE

Records of Eagers for November 1930 show that Motors Pty Ltd, an Associate Company, acquired General Motors-Holden Ltd’s motor vehicle franchise for South East Queensland.

On 1st November 1931 Motors Pty Ltd terminated their franchise and E.G. Eager & Son Limited took over General Motor-Holden Ltd’s franchise, to distribute exclusively for the whole of the state, relinquishing the Willis Export Corporation franchise on December 17th, 1931.

Towards the end of 1931 Eagers closed their motor showroom and city depot in Adelaide Street, leading the press to comment that ‘coming events are casting their shadows before’. The motor world pondered what would be General Motors’ next move. General Motors Australia had merged with the Holden family company, Holden’s Motor Body Builders, to form General Motors-Holden’s.

By the end of October 1931 Eagers had taken over General Motors lines for the whole of the State and General Motors (Australia) Pty Ltd had terminated their contract with Motors Ltd. Eagers took over for six months the lease of the premises occupied by Motors Ltd in Wickham Street as a city sales room for General Motors lines and as a used car department. The Board was to confirm the action of Messrs Eager and Green in notifying the Willys Export Corporation that the Company desired to terminate its contract with the corporation at the expiry date, 17 December 1931 and was to sign a four year contract from 1 November 1931 with GM-H Ltd to distribute exclusively all GM cars, trucks and spare parts in Queensland and the Northern Rivers district of New South Wales.

Everywhere outside Townsville and Warwick, the Company would try to make satisfactory arrangements with the existing GM dealers. It was decided to relieve the Company of the maximum possible proportion of its investment in each town and close the branch, retaining the existing GM dealer for future representation.

Steering Wheel, December 1931. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 79

Large billboards were all the rage, this one on Ipswich Road between the Oxley Hotel and the aerodrome turnoff.

The huge showroom of Motors Ltd, 324 Wickham Street, dealers for the whole range of General Motors cars and trucks. Note the names of the various makes of cars prominently displayed above the showroom windows. Cars for the ﬁrst consignment to Toowoomba are drawn up outside. (Truth, 16 November 1930) 80 A DRIVING FORCE

in the motoring world. This was not to be seen as a lack of faith on the part of Eagers in a product that they had marketed for so long, but as an opportunity for future development. The Overland (Steering Wheel, and Willys-Knight lines, which had been handled by Eagers January 1932) for about 20 years, were to be distributed from the beginning of December 1931 by a new ﬁrm, Overland Ltd., from premises in Adelaide Street, under the supervision of Richard Cobden, a well- known ﬁgure in the Queensland motor industry, and Thomas Mulcahy as resident manager in Queensland.

Moreover, the merging of General Motors Aust. Ltd. and Holdens’ Ltd. into the firm of General Motors Holdens’ Ltd. means that an entirely new set of circumstances has arisen in the motor world of Australia, in so far as it has brought into being a company in which there is a huge volume of Australian capital invested, and which, in the event of any drastic tariff changes, would with its varied operations of body building, GENERAL MOTORS-HOLDENS PRODUCTS. parts manufacture, and assembly plants, be able to develop its New Home in Queensland. operations to a point which would ultimately be of advantage to Australia as a secondary industry, and to the car buyer of An important change in the motor industry takes effect as from Australia, in giving him the benefit of manufacturing lessons and 1st November. Messrs. E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. are now sole economies learned overseas. (Steering Wheel, November 1931) distributors of all General Motors-Holdens cars, trucks and spare parts for the State of Queensland and the Northern Rivers of New Eagers had also been concentrating on building up a department South Wales. During the twenty years that Messrs E.G. Eager and to cater for the needs of the agricultural world, and cultivators, Son Ltd. have been established in the Queensland motor trade, ploughs, milking machines and an extensive range of general they have built up throughout their territory a solid sales and machinery were now available, either through head office or from service organisation which has always enjoyed an unblemished their branches. They were now styled as Farming Machinery and reputation for fair dealing and excellent service to customers. General Equipment Merchants. Eagers have their own branches in Townsville, Warwick, and Maryborough, and are represented by dealers of high standard The Workshop at Newstead prided itself on its repair service, and repute in practically every other town in Queensland and the divided into sections. A customer was directed either to the major Northern Rivers. (Northern Star, Lismore, 2 November 1931) or minor repair departments, overhead tracks enabled engines to be worked on with maximum efficiency, there were large and small Richmond Motor Sales Ltd made a ‘special showing’ of the lathes, a special hydraulic press used to straighten axles and shafts new Chevrolets, Buicks and GMC trucks at their Keen Street by the ‘cold process’, and there were special brake lining machines. showroom, noting that the Chevrolet was an outstanding car in Acetylene and electric welding was available on the premises, seen its price range, and that it was ‘a car that can be handled by the as a boon particularly for truck work, and battery charging could most frail of lady drivers with ease’. Muldoon Motors in Woodlark also be done in the workshop itself. Blacksmithing was available, Street offered a further choice to the district. there was a high pressure washing machine, and high pressure Photographs of Fred Eager, Chairman of Directors, and greasing was another service. No job was too large or too small ‘to George Green, Managing Director, appeared in Steering Wheel, be handled expeditiously and satisfactorily’, and the firm stressed as they advised their readers of these significant new developments that same quality service was to be found at their branches. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 81

E.G. Eager & Son Limited. North Queensland Dealers’ Conference, Townsville, 1 November 1931. Back row, from left to right: E. Smith (Tully), F.R. Ireland (Cairns), W. Heydon-Graham (Home Hill), A.J. Webb (Bowen), R.W. Stanger (Charters Towers), A. Heydon-Graham (Home Hill), Lance Lewis (Julia Creek), Barney Long (Cloncurry). Centre: Graham Boyce (Ayr), D. Williams (Cairns), J.B. MacGill (Eagers, Townsville), E.A. Simmill (Eagers, Townsville), R.L. McLean (Turner’s, Atherton), R. McDonald (Cloncurry), J.C. Morris (Collinsville), Athol Love (Mount Isa), A. Keneally (Hughenden). In front: M. Lamond (Bowen), H. Grube (Ingham), R.H. Grimmer (Eagers, Townsville), R.F.C. (Dick) Godwin (Manager for North Queensland E.G. Eager & Son Ltd), Cliff White (Eagers, Townsville), L.B. Tomes (Innisfail), G. Daniel (Cairns). (Steering Wheel, December 1931) 82 A DRIVING FORCE

This record of a dealers’ convention held in Brisbane by Eagers in 1932 is a roll call of their dealerships. Country dealers present include: B. Dobson (Clermont), A.J. Webb (Bowen), G. Boyce (Ayr), A. Graham (Home Hill), H. Grube (Ingham), F.R. Ireland (Cairns), G. Daniels (Cairns), R. McLean (Atherton), L.B. Tomes (Innisfail), J. Morgan (Killarney), J. McGovern (Clifton), H. Lindenberg (Pittsworth), A.W. Blinco (Crow’s Nest), M. Kruger (Toowoomba), E.W. Wilson (Mundubbera), B. Shay (Goomeri), N. Clough (Toowoomba), A.K. Lawton (Warwick), J. Dorney (Maryborough), B. Neagle (Bundaberg), R. Godwin (Townsville), R. Grimmer (Townsville), J. Faulkner (Ipswich), J. Pike (Laidley), H.C. Bradford (Beenleigh), P.F. Dever (Beaudesert), L. Firth (Southport), N. Clay (Dayboro), A.H. Clayton (Cleveland), A. Robinson (Lismore), G. Thompson (Casino), A. Slessar (Chinchilla), T. Jack (Dalby), B. Adams (Miles), A.R. Hobson (Roma), J. Blake (Cunnamulla), J. Thompson (Nambour), A.V. Lilley (Gympie), W.W. Beebe (Mundubbera), L. Townson (Kingaroy), W. Teerman (Nanango), H. Ronald (Mackay), G. Coar (Longreach), and R. Brook (Boulia). Their headquarters staff included Managing Director George Green; E. Powers, General Motors; Hugh Corley, P.W. Snell, Lawrence Green, D’Arcy Amos, B. Withy, E.V. Cornwall, W. Lang, W.G. (Wally) Webb, R.H. Kenyon, F. Martin, J. Chapman, M.D. Russel, R. Vickers, F. Thallon and R. Pratt. (Steering Wheel, April 1932) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 83

Frequent gatherings kept Eagers staff in touch, one such occasion being a convention of Eagers Dealers in March 1932, when they gathered to make sure they had a chance to help each other solve their problems, and put forward ideas to attract whatever business might be available in what was still a depressed market. Photographs of this occasion show the huge numbers who gathered, and also the lighter side of business, a dinner at the National Hotel where party hats were the order of the day.

At the 20th Annual General Meeting on 15 August 1932 it was made clear that the decision of Willys Overland to cease production of their small model had deprived the Company of its best selling unit. The following month it was decided to close the Warwick, Bundaberg and Maryborough branches, and dealers were appointed instead.

Early in 1933 a subsidiary company was being formed at Townsville, Discounts Pty Limited, to handle used cars repossessed or traded by dealers. Motors Ltd was to resume trading at Wickham St as Motors Pty Ltd, handling Kelvinator refrigerators, Electolite lighting plants as made by the Electolite Electric Company, and Rand Diesel engines, under direct supervision of George Green.

By the next Annual General Meeting, improving trade conditions were recorded, the Company had weathered the bad times, and there was increased unit turnover, though this was counter balanced by reduced car and truck prices. Fred Eager Playing the Game in the Thirties. In the front row, from left to right are: D. Usher, Hugh Corley quoted comparative statistics of current factory productions (Vice-Captain), George Green (President), E. Mahoney (Captain), J. Chapman (Hon Treas.), H.L. Tomkinson (Hon. Sec.), and B. Webb. Second row: H.B. Ross, J.E. Trevaskes, L.B. Cook, in America to confirm the wisdom of the Company’s step in N. Ratten, E. Webb, C. Dunlop. Back row: W. Parminter, W. Sanders, G.W. Hogan. accepting the General Motors franchise. It was also decided a In front: A. Sanders. Inset: J. Leet, F. Hall. loose leaf minute book would be adopted and that from there on the minutes would be typed. 84 A DRIVING FORCE

By 1934 the motor industry seemed to be steadily growing again and by August the Company was preparing for the Exhibition:

Marvels of the Motor World. The Royal National Exhibition. Petty’s Paddock. Artistically arranged, with courteous assistants to explain every feature, the motor displays will be an education to all.

E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. Replete with new achievements in automobile design, economy, safety and endurance, the most interesting exhibition in the history of the motor industry will be presented by E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. on the same prominent stand as last year - facing Gregory Terrace and the entrance to the No. 1 Oval. Despite the comprehensive display, however, the area will be inadequate to present the entire range of passenger cars and commercial vehicles and many models not represented in the Exhibition will be available for inspection at the spacious city showroom located on the ground ﬂoor of the C.C.M. Building at the corner of Creek and Adelaide Streets (opposite the Gresham Hotel).

This was the former Canada Cycle & Motor Company building, now transformed in anticipation of the return of prosperity to the motor trade. A spare parts department was at the rear of the building, accessed from Adelaide Street. Additional models of the Vauxhall and Oldsmobile cars, as well as Bedford and G.M.C. trucks, were displayed in the showrooms of the metropolitan distributors, Motors Ltd., at 324 Wickham Street. Sign on Ipswich Road between Oxley Creek and what was then known as ‘the aerodrome turnoff’, near Archerfield. The 1933 Show had prompted the comment from George Green: ‘Splendid interest shown in all new cars; the best motor show for many years.’ This was a sentiment echoed with relief by many, and again in 1934 Eagers had prepared a ‘show within a show’ for the benefit of the city and country August visitors. They were keen to advertise that throughout the state they carried huge dealers’ stocks, and of course the necessary parts. They were able to display the progress which General Motors had brought to automobile design, particularly noticeable being the ‘cleanly-flowing lines’, taking advantage of a brightening in the economy. That year brought purchasers the added benefits of independent front-wheel suspension, hailed as the greatest invention in cars since the self starter, and the Maple Leaf trucks from Chevrolet, capable of hauling much heavier loads than had been previously possible. It was by now readily agreed that the motor vehicle display was chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 85

a premier attraction at the Show, a far cry from the days when motors were allotted space in the Side-Show areas near the railway line, ranked with other freaks that were the stuff of merriment.

Again this year E.G. Eager and Son Ltd have a display that so completely covers the ﬁeld of cars, trucks, and accessories, as to be a show within a show. Every phase of passenger and commercial transportation has been given attention, and no matter where the interest lies, the visitor will have his attention caught.

To assist E G Eagers in presenting such an elaborate display, the associated retail companies have all joined the effort. Eager’s Retail Pty Ltd are represented with Buick and Chevrolet cars, Chevrolet and Maple-leaf commercial vehicles, for which they are metropolitan distributors. Motors Pty Ltd as distributors in the metropolis for Vauxhall and Pontiac cars, and Bedford commercial vehicles make their showing, as do Moran Motors Pty Ltd, metropolitan distributors for Oldsmobile, La Salle, and Cadillac cars and Oldsmobile commercial vehicles.

General Motors Parts. The Service Department of E.G. Eager & Son Ltd. advises all General Motors car and truck owners of the necessity of buying only genuine General Motors replacement parts. The Service Department points out that General Motors Christmas celebration in the thirties in Eagers Workshop at parts are made from the very best material obtainable and are Newstead. The large windows manufactured according to speciﬁcations of General Motors and doors opened onto engineers, thus ensuring safety, economy and dependability. They Evelyn Street. state that if you are a General Motors car or truck owner, it will pay to buy replacement parts either from an authorised General Motors dealer or direct from the Queensland and Northern Rivers Distributors, Messrs E.G. Eager & Son Ltd., of Newstead, Brisbane, who have also a Parts Store on the ground ﬂoor of Primary Building, Corner of Creek and Adelaide Streets, for the convenience of city customers. It is recommended further to look for the Trade Mark branded on every genuine General Motors part. (Steering Wheel, December 1934)

There was rapid expansion in the industry and further property was acquired for servicing, and to house the spare parts necessary to supply the network of dealers in North Queensland. An interesting purchase in Townsville was that of historic Warringa, in Cleveland Terrace, Melton Hill to be the Manager’s residence, a move much Steering Wheel, July 1935. appreciated by Richard Godwin who was the ﬁrst to live there. 86 A DRIVING FORCE

At the headquarters site at Newstead, towards the end of who had benefited from better seasons. New improvements 1934 more land had been purchased, and various cottages included independent front wheel suspension, the term registered sold for removal as further development became necessary. In as ‘knee-action’ by General Motors, and endorsed by Eagers as ‘a January 1935, plans by architects Messrs G.H.M. Addison and fitment which has come to stay and has undoubtedly made history’. Son, and H.S. Macdonald for additions to the Evelyn Street frontage of the building extending from Austin Street to Evelyn In Townsville, the decision to extend the workshop and used car Street were approved and tenders for building were called. The showroom on land held under lease from the Townsville Harbour tender by Albert Mason of Rothwell Chambers, Edward Street, Board was approved in January 1935. Hugh Corley was relocated Brisbane was approved and work started almost immediately. from Brisbane Head Office, where he had been Truck Sales Manager, to take over the Northern Zone from Townsville west for New Motor Storeroom: A commodious new motor storeroom two years. He was keen to stay in North Queensland and in the is being erected for Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son, at Evelyn Street, years leading up to World War II he was responsible for all the land Newstead. The building, which will be in concrete and iron, will be 200 feet in length and 1000 feet in depth. The architects, to the north and south of Townsville as well as the western area. Messrs. Addison and MacDonald, have let a contract for this The Annual General Meeting of United Motors Ltd, formerly work to Mr. Albert Mason, builder. (Steering Wheel, March 1935) Overland S.A. Limited, was held at the Eagers headquarters in This extension was to provide extra stock accommodation for the Brisbane, chaired by Fred Z. Eager and with directors George Green very comprehensive General Motors lines that were now expected, and W.A. (Bill) Green present. This was now a private Company, and which might be eagerly sought, especially by country buyers with new Articles of Association.

Looking across Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead, c.1940 to the new facade of Eagers, stretching from Evelyn Street towards Waterloo Street. Note the line-up of Buicks, the brand names above the showroom windows and the petrol bowser below the Vauxhall sign. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 87

The winding up of Messrs Motors Ltd in full took place on 30 April 1935. It was succeeded by Motors Pty Ltd from 1 May 1935 and the registration of a new dealer company, Eagers’ Retail Pty Ltd which was granted the metropolitan franchises for Chevrolet and Buick cars and Chevrolet trucks. Motors Pty Ltd were granted franchises for Vauxhall and Pontiac cars and Bedford trucks, Moran Motors Pty Ltd were granted Oldsmobile 6 cylinder and 8 cylinder cars.

At the 1935 Brisbane Show, Eagers was once again in the prime position, as shown prominently on the plan of the area. The former ‘Petty’s Paddock’ was now styled as ‘The Motor Park’, and sites were reserved there from year to year.

Outstanding Motor Displays at the Royal National Show. E.G. Eager & Son had a great range of 1935 Models. Keen interest in the big motor show of E.G. Eager & Son Limited was again in evidence at the Royal National Exhibition - particularly among country visitors, and a huge range of 1935 productions was displayed. A special section of Eagers pavilion was allotted for a comprehensive display of genuine Advertisement on Ipswich Rd near Archerﬁeld. Vauxhall cars were promoted spare parts and accessories which occupied a space of 29ft. by Eagers: ‘as English as England’. by 6ft. There was proof, if such were needed, that General Motors’ parts are made from the very best material obtainable and are manufactured according to specifications of General Motors’ engineers, thus ensuring safety, economy, and dependability. Among the many interesting accessory items were the G-M-H Car Radio Sets, which recalls a message from Captain Frank Hurley in Central Australia - where he is engaged recording the Official Centenary Film for the South Australian Government. The following message he sent by aeroplane: “The Big Six Vauxhall car has been, and is, the talk of the towns passed through, and all marvel at the G-M-H radio reception which excels most of the domestic sets. Throughout the tour, the reception has been remarkable. We have never been out of touch - daylight - with Melbourne and Adelaide.” (Steering Wheel, September 1935)

Motors Pty Ltd, a landmark at Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley. 88 A DRIVING FORCE

Welcoming the good times, Fred Eager had taken leave of absence from the Company for six months from the beginning of May 1935 for a world tour with his wife, to include Great Britain

How times have changed. and Germany, and the United States. They were by that time a ‘White Man’s Corroboree! prominent Brisbane couple, and great was the partying to farewell Capt. Frank Hurley in them, and, in time, to welcome them back for the Christmas whirl: the heart of Australia for the South Australian Capt. and Mrs. Alec Leslie gave a fork tea to welcome back Government, tunes in Melbourne and other distant the F.Z. Eagers after their world tour. All the old friends who Stations with his Standard cheerio-ed so ardently before Fred and Audrey went away GM-H Car Radio. Miles started the round all over again. from civilization, these primitive people listen to The F.Z. Eagers are back in town following a jaunt round the one of the marvels of modern times - Car Radio. world. Both look as though they have enjoyed themselves every Whilst designed and minute of it. Audrey has brought back some inspired frocks, engineered speciﬁcally for including all the etceteras without which no woman calls herself General Motors’ Cars, the well gowned on the Continent and in America. A new car too. GM-H Car Radio can be readily installed in any make The George Greens motored to Sydney to meet them and of car without alteration.’ returned to Brisbane at the same time. (Steering Wheel, September 1935) Was Jack Moran’s swim party to welcome home the F.Z. Eagers and Midge Whipple [Wippell] a wow? Was it! All the returned travellers thought they were back in Hollywood or some place like America’s Palm Beach.

Audrey Eager wore the last gasp from the States, a “half-mast” ensemble which has shorts with a red, white and blue effect about the top and red scarf. The swim suit she got into for the water sports was a royal blue milanese affair with the new lines and blue shoes with square cork heels (the latest). A blue cloak goes with it, also cap, and for the beach, blue sun glasses. Midge Whipple wore a new rubber suit of all white, which was getting a general once- over, and Mrs. George Green was also in an expensive American swim creation of navy and white. Tables at the pool side served for A comprehensive article dealing with Eagers’ Service Station the cocktails and looked very gay. Rather gay, gaudy and light- and General Repair Shop appeared in the RACQ Journal in hearted, taken all round. August 1935. This described the orderliness of the whole operation, under Wallace (Wally) Webb, an Associate Member What a treasure Willie Cameron was to that party - Fif Billington of the Mechanical Institute of Engineering, England, and had only to ring the Carlton and mention cocktail party and a member of the Society of Automobile Engineers: ‘There Cameron did the rest. Fred Eager went across and shook hands are machines for everything. Guess work has been entirely with Willie in that inimitable “personal friend manner” that eliminated, and nothing is left to chance.’ makes the Eagers so popular. Fred Eager’s bookplate, designed by Sydney artist Phillip M. Litchﬁeld. Fred Eager spoke of the delights of motoring overseas, of (NATIONAL LIBRARY OF AUSTRALIA: comfortable highway hotels, of motor caravans equipped with AN11134198) every modern convenience, and of motorists’ camps provided in rural areas, again with every convenience and comfort. Motor design was changing, and the new standardization was making it hard to differentiate between the different makes of cars. They had visited the new Vauxhall factory at Luton, in England, then in the course of construction, which would double their output, and undoubtedly of great interest to those Australians who had recently hosted the Vauxhall chief.

Motoring in Other Lands. Impressions of Mr. F.Z. Eager. To motor across the United States from San Francisco to Boston, a distance of 3000 miles, and to find in all the journey not more than 40 miles of unpaved road was the experience of Mr. F.Z. Eager of the firm of E.G. Eager & Son, who has Fred Eager bought part of the recently returned to Brisbane from a world tour on which he Australasian collection of James Edge Partington in London in the thirties. He was accompanied by Mrs. Eager. Public opinion throughout has added his raised stamp in the top the world has demanded that every possible effort be made to right hand corner of this 1837 edition of reduce the number of traffic accidents, said Mr. Eager. Motorists Charles Eaton by Thomas Wemyss, the story of a melancholy shipwreck in the and pedestrians are combining to assist each other to this end Torres Straits. (Private collection) and motor manufacturers are paying special attention to their braking systems to ensure quicker and safer stopping. Shatter proof glass is everywhere being adopted as standard and car bodies are being strengthened to further protect the occupants in case of accident. It was fortunate for the visitors that the big American motor shows, which have hitherto been held in January, had been brought forward to November, mainly with a view to spreading production more evenly and maintaining regularity of employment throughout the year. This enabled Mr. Eager to see some of the shows, notably that at Los Angeles. Author A.E. Wallis inscribed this copy of The Cruise of the Ellengowan (1924) Probably it was on this trip that Fred Eager became a serious book to Fred Eager who added his personal library stamp. (Green family archive) collector. He bought part of the Edge Partington Collection which had been sold in London in 1934, one of the greatest collections of books relating to Australia ever offered. At Eager’s death these were bought by another collector, Thomas Ramsay. Fred Eager joined the Royal Geographical Society of Queensland in about 1935 and the (later Royal) Historical Society of Queensland in 1941 and remained a member of both until his death. 90 A DRIVING FORCE

Miss Tietzel, South Australia’s Miss Centenary, whose visit to Queensland in Eagers sign for Vauxhall at Scarborough, Brisbane. The small notice below pleads: 1936 attracted much attention. She is beside the Vauxhall car placed at her ‘Be a sport! This sign cost good money. Don’t destroy it!’ disposal by E.G. Eager & Son Limited, in conjunction with the metropolitan distributors, Motors Pty Ltd. (Steering Wheel, August 1936)

‘The visiting Anglo-Scottish hockey players, photographed at the New Farm Rose Garden with the ﬂeet of English Vauxhall cars placed at their disposal by E.G. Eager & Son Limited.’ (Steering Wheel, August 1937) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 91

The commodious showrooms of Motors Pty Ltd in Wickham Street were the focal point for the functions of Vauxhall-Bedford week at the end of 1935, with their comprehensive display of vehicles opened by the founder and chairman of Vauxhall, Leslie Walton, whose visit to India and the East had fortuitously coincided with the Brisbane event. Lawrence Green, brother of George and Bill Green, and an alternate Director during that period and therefore host for the occasion, introducing the visitor said:

It is the privilege of Motors Pty Ltd. to introduce to you to-day a distinguished visitor from England, Mr. Leslie Walton, who is the founder of Vauxhall Motors Limited, and still holds the position of chairman of directors of that great company. Motors Pty. Ltd. and E.G. Eager & Son Ltd. are proud of the fact that they serve, respectively in the Brisbane metropolitan area and throughout the sales territory of Queensland and the Northern Rivers of N.S.W., as the instruments of distribution of Vauxhall and Bedford.

Another guest on that occasion was W. J. Cudlipp, from Melbourne, representative of General Motors-Holdens Limited, the Australian distributors of Vauxhalls and Bedfords, who had fittingly motored up to Queensland in a Vauxhall, with A. Hurwood, assistant manager of General Motors. Walton pointed out the importance Some of the many eye-catching advertisements for Motors Pty Ltd, Wickham Street, the Valley, in the 1930s. placed by the British government on the motor industry as an employer, as its makeup was five per cent materials and ninety-five per cent labour. He made the point that the Vauxhall and Bedford Car and Truck factory supplied approximately fifty per cent of the British cars and trucks imported into Australia, and that they were especially manufactured for Australian conditions.

Moran Motors Pty Ltd, under Jack Moran, had been granted the franchise for Oldsmobile six cylinder and eight cylinder cars, and such beauties as the Silver Glitter were displayed at their showrooms at Wickham and Ballow Streets. ‘Knee-action’ was now standard, but there were also the delights of hydraulic brakes and synchro- mesh gears, as well as shatter proof armour plate glass, arm-rests and foot-rests, all the luxury associated with the thirties. It was little wonder that thousands of gramophones blared out the music of Vincent Bryant and Gus Edwards:

Come away with me Lucile In my merry Oldsmobile Down the road of life we’ll ﬂy Automobubbling you and I. 92 A DRIVING FORCE

Opening of the Vauxhall-Bedford display in 1935. From left to right are J. K. Cannan, Lawrence Green, Leslie Walton (founder and Chairman of Directors of Vauxhall Motors), A. Hurwood (Assistant Manager of General Motors Holden), W.J. Cudlipp (G.M.H. Melbourne), and J. Giles. (Steering Wheel, January 1936) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 93

The press took a great interest in the social rounds and often GENERAL MOTORS AT the Eagers and the Greens were described by various journalists, as they partied with other influential people: FISHERMAN SBEND General Motors’ Plant Total Cost over £400,000. General THE EAGERS Motors-Holden’s Ltd. have already given practical proof of The F.Z. Eagers had American garlands fashioned of frangipanni their belief in the return of prosperity by placing in hand the at their New Year dinner at the Pacific Hotel. A cocktail party building of a great new plant at Fisherman’s Bend on the preceded the dinner which was set for so many guests that the Yarra River, Melbourne. (Steering Wheel, February 1936) hotel veranda had to be used. Prosperity was in the air with the construction of the new General Fred Eager is like a real seagoing skipper on his boat, everything Motors plant at Fisherman’s Bend, on the Yarra River in Melbourne. ship shape and in its place, and all the gadgets that make for a tidy Tremendous employment was given as the massive two-storey craft. The Eagers gave a whale of a cocktail party at the Pacific structure was completed, with provision made for a third storey on New Year’s Eve. There seemed hundreds at it, all wishing each to be added when necessary. As well as the main assembly plant, other the happiest of times in 1936. body-building plant and offices, there was the giant spare parts Southport was the rendezvous for a large number of boating department, and an air-conditioned and dust-free paint processing men during the recent holidays, and members of the department. At every turn, staff welfare had been thought of; Queensland Motor Boat Squadron were well in evidence. natural light was provided wherever possible, as well as a cafeteria, Mr. Fred Eager was at Southport with his launch and a party of and the roof design accommodated their recreational activities. friends, but his chief interest appeared to centre in a new speed boat which he brought home with him recently from the United States. It created a very favourable impression in the minds of onlookers who saw it dashing by, and it is doubtful if there is anything else quite like it in Queensland. A sign opposite They tell me that Fred Eager sailed the angry main in his yacht the Mt Gravatt (meaning the tail end of the cyclone on the Bay) to bring up to Hotel advertising Eagers Retail Pty port the oysters for a fork dinner. Ltd in the 1930s. THE GREENS

The George Greens are going across from America to England in one of the marvellous drawing room suites of the Queen Mary. Isn’t that a highlight of even a world tour?

The children’s party given by Mr. and Mrs. George Green for their two kiddies before they left the little ones to go on their tour by the Nieuw Zeeland was a masterpiece in young folk entertaining. Party plates, glasses and table napery were in pink, orange, and green, and the tables looked adorable. Socialites came along bringing their beautiful children. The very youngest younger set gave promise of a beautiful lot of girls debuting in the dim future. 94 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, at the corner of Adelaide and Creek that were too tight-ﬁtting could cause headaches if worn for long Streets had the metropolitan franchise for Buick cars, as well hours behind the wheel and a looser model with a turned down as Chevrolet trucks and cars, yet more General Motors lines. brim to shade the eyes was ideal, but not one that might obscure Advertisements told the story, how low prices ‘now bring this vision. Long strings of pearls were to be avoided, as were ﬂimsy traditionally fine car within the means of thousands’ as ‘Buying scarves which could become entangled in the wheels, as had Buick’ was promoted as an attractive proposition. happened to Isadora Duncan, strangled in her Bugatti in 1927. Rings could have chips taken out of valuable stones through an Women were being targeted as valuable customers, and helpful accidental knock on a gear or brake lever. More and more women hints for suitable clothing appeared in the motoring journals, featured in the advertisements. advising, for example, that although a separate ‘motoring wardrobe’ was certainly no longer needed, such were the improvements in At the 1936 Show, Eagers exhibited their vast range. Eagers Retail motor design, nevertheless a quick change into a spare pair of Pty Ltd showed their Chevrolets and Buicks; Moran Motors Pty ‘driving brogues’ was recommended, and special driving gloves Ltd displayed Oldsmobile cars and trucks, La Salle and Cadillac could also be kept just for ‘when in the car’. Dust coats of heavy cars; and at Motors Pty Ltd the public could inspect Vauxhalls linen were seen as suitable protection for a driver’s dainty frocks, and Pontiacs, the latter claiming to be the ‘Most Beautiful Thing for those who might choose to motor with their windows wide on Wheels’. For those who favoured an English make there were open, and car seat covers could afford added protection. Hats the ever popular Bedford trucks.

‘The most beautiful thing on wheels’ advertised on Sandgate Road, Eagers display at the 1936 Brisbane Ekka, just inside the main entrance, where near Cabbage Tree Creek. ‘liveried courtesy men’ and ‘uniformed hostesses’ showed the visitors round the 18,000 square feet of merchandise, including the complete range of General Motors cars and commercial vehicles. (Truth, 16 August 1936) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 95

Eager’s Display of General Motors Cars. Eager’s Exhibit. Miss Jean Burstall recently organised a jolly party of ladies from Elaborate plans have been finalised to make the 1936 display among her friends and members of the staff of E.G. Eager & Son of General Motors Cars by E.G. Eager and Son Limited Ltd. for a week-end down the bay. They hired the motor launch the largest and most impressive motor exhibit ever seen on “Nearing” and proceeded to Peel Island Horseshoe, where a quiet the Royal National Show Grounds. Features include 50% evening was spent ﬁshing. The results were excellent and a good increased floor space, a scheme of new exterior and interior catch of squire was creeled. Those who didn’t ﬁsh seemed to enjoy decorations, novel lighting, novel displays, bitumen floor to the fun as much as the actual anglers. On the following morning replace tan bark (to obviate dust nuisance), and uniformed the members of the party went ashore and some time was spent courtesy men to direct visitors to any section of the huge swimming and sun bathing. After lunch it was a case of up anchor range of passenger and commercial vehicles. All metropolitan for Goat Island and thence home via Cleveland. It was great! distributors are combining with E.G. Eager and Son Limited George Green had been granted six months leave of absence to make the 1936 display something well worth seeing. (Steering Wheel, August 1936) from the Company early in 1936, with Lawrence Green to act as alternate Director. The Eagers hosted a memorable bon Leisure time was valued, and camaraderie amongst the Eagers voyage party for them at the National Hotel, with great style staff was considered important by the management. The motor- and no speeches. Audrey Eager herself was called by the Press boating craze was well suited to Brisbane and a typical staff ‘the Hollywood Hostess’, undoubtedly a reference to the Eagers’ outing was organized at the end of 1936: many friends in the ‘picture industry’.

Part of a ﬂeet of Chevrolet Commercial Vehicles delivered to the Motor boating and a weekend down the bay for the female staff Postmaster-General’s Department, Brisbane by Eagers Retail Pty Ltd of Eagers in 1936. ‘Miss Jean Burstall entertains a happy party at in 1936. (Steering Wheel, September 1936) The Horshoe, Peel Island’. (Steering Wheel, November 1936) 96 A DRIVING FORCE

The Greens returned home from abroad in time for Christmas, and it was thought that their renewal of personal acquaintanceship with the factory executives in America would be of considerable beneﬁt to the Company at home. They were soon caught up in the Christmas social round, as Truth reported Southport was ﬁlling up, with the Governor (Sir Leslie Wilson), Lady Wilson, Private Secretary Leathers: ‘The Fred Eagers and George Greens will be there as usual, and the Falkner-Hewsons, of Augathella, are already there, having taken a house for a month.’

American style was very much in evidence. The Fred Eagers had a big dinner party at the Paciﬁc Hotel on New Year’s night where Audrey supplied all the ‘favors’ and planned the menu:

Favors came from USA and were on a par with her exquisite greeting cards which were not only hand painted but painted by a man who signs R.A. after his name.

Among hundreds of sun-tanned bodies, with backs darker than mahogany, Mrs. Fred. Eager’s camellia skin looks almost startlingly white especially when she wears a beautiful black chiffon frock.

Beach resorts hosted fishing parties and all kinds of boating enthusiasts, while general business prosperity could be seen in the fitting out of the boats with their well-equipped cabin interiors, sufficient to ensure pleasurable trips ‘down the Bay’ or ‘coastal cruises’.

At Southport. Prominent among those boating enthusiasts who made Southport their headquarters were Mr. and Mrs. F.Z. Eager with a party of friends in the Tangalooma. Others who spent much of the time in their boats included: Mr. Byrne Hart and his family, Mr. and Mrs. F. Burnett Smith and family, Mr. and Mrs. F. Bruce and Mr. and Mrs. J.K. Cannan.

This must all have been good for the motor industry in general, and in particular for Eagers.

Ten Thousand Cars in Thirty Months. General Motors-Holdens Make History. His Excellency the Governor, in the presence of a notable assemblage, performed the ceremony of starting from the assembly line the 10,000th car which has been produced at the Brisbane works of General Motors-Holdens Ltd. since they were reopened thirty months ago at the close of the depression period. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 97

The function was arranged by Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son Ltd., distributors of General Motors-Holden’s products in Queensland and New South Wales. Mr. F.Z. Eager, chairman of directors, welcomed the Governor. Mr. G.E. Green said that General Motors-Holdens had in every State a plant similar to that in which the visitors were assembled, an indication of the conﬁdence of the directors in the future of Australia and the great part which the motor industry and the allied industries were playing in the return of prosperity. It was a question as to whether or not a complete car could be made here, but in the event of it being decided that it must be so. (Steering Wheel, January 1937)

General Motors-Holdens marked this occasion by giving £100 to the Bush Children’s Health Scheme, and this was matched by E.G. Eager & Son, enough money to give many bush children a seaside holiday.

Eagers at that time was the largest motor vehicle distributing organisation in Australasia. Including its branches and distributing companies, it employed a staff of 356, and they co-operated with 200 dealers throughout Queensland and Northern New South Fred Eager, at far right, with Governor of Queensland Sir Leslie Wilson on his right, listen to Minister for Transport John Dash, at a function arranged by Wales. In Brisbane they carried a stock of replacement parts in excess Eagers in 1937 to celebrate the sale of 10,000 cars in 30 months. of £20,000, and these were supplemented throughout the State to ensure local requirements could be met.

Mr. Chrystal is well known in the Queensland motor trade, having been associated with Messrs. E.G. Eager & Son Limited for the past eight years in the metropolitan area, and he is full of enthusiasm for his company’s lines.

Further expansion at Newstead was planned with the purchase for £700 from the Brisbane City Council of three vacant allotments at the corner of Breakfast Creek Road and Evelyn Street opposite the Company’s registered office. At the Company’s 25th Annual General Meeting held in 1937, Mr Macfarlane expressed thanks for the re-election of At the Zone Representatives’ Dinner, Exhibition Week, 1936, Lawrence Green Messrs G.S. Hutton and Macfarlane as presents the Chevrolet Cup to Richard Godwin, Manager of Townsville Branch auditors, mentioned that his firm’s term of which won the contest. The cup is on display at Eagers Head Office. 98 A DRIVING FORCE

A reunion of zone representatives held in Brisbane during Show service to the Company would by this appointment complete a Week, August 1936. Back row: H. MacDonald (N.Q.), R. Evans quarter of a century, and referred to the wonderful growth of the (S.W.Q.), Marlay Hadgraft Company since his firm’s original appointment. (Sales Promotion Manager), Hugh Corley (N.Q.). Middle row: Chairman Fred Eager spoke of the effect of strikes in the United C. McKean (C.Q.), E. Upton States and Canada on local supplies which were further shortened (N. Coast), J. Coakes (Northern Rivers), by the recent shortage of steel in Australia for bodies. However, C. Patten (N.C. Line), C. Logan (W.Q.), A. Pestorius (A/Manager, supplies were gradually becoming normal and indications were of Toowoomba). Front row: N. Clough a busy year ahead to compensate for the lower business during (Manager, Toowoomba Branch), the recent shortage: unfulfilled orders indicated that the market Darcy Amos (Gen. Sales Manager), would readily absorb the increased supplies ahead. He referred also Lawrence Green (A/Managing Director), Richard Godwin to his absence for the major portion of the financial year just ended (Manager, Townsville Branch), in other parts of Australia, Europe and America, and expressed A. Browne (N.Q.). his appreciation of the manner in which Lawrence Green had deputised for him during that absence.

Robert Chrystal, appointed Manager of Motors Pty Ltd in 1937 after eight years with Eagers. (Steering Wheel, May 1937) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 99

TANGALOOMA Business Opportunities: A well-built boat, ﬁtted with an improved outboard engine, presents to the car owner what may be termed a natural extension of his motoring interests. (Steering Wheel, November, 1937)

[On the Brisbane River] there was a dress rehearsal of boats for the big sailing parade opening of the sailing season next Saturday. The F.Z. Eagers gave a happy cocktail party to a hundred friends to launch the lovely new Tangalooma, and guests made it a sports-parade. The launching took place at 8.45 p.m. when the tide was right, and Rowe’ did the catering for the cocktail party. There is a cocktail bar with onyx fittings on the boat that would intrigue even a dry advocate as a piece of furniture. Mrs Eager christened the Tangalooma with a bottle of real fizz, wearing an American spectator sport suit in the new blue, with stock. (Truth, 19 September 1937) Tangalooma, owned by Fred Eager. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111268) The new Tangalooma was designed and built by C. Crowley of Bulimba. The boating world and the press paid great attention to the luxury of the vessel. Fred Eager’s black leather-bound log book, with the vessel’s name stamped in gold on the front and his entries interspersed with photographs, bears testimony to the importance he attached to the vessel and to those he entertained on her. Leaders of trade, commerce, banking and industry gathered to see the boat christened by Audrey Eager, cheering as she was successful at the second attempt with the champagne. George Green called the new boat a splendid advertisement for Brisbane craftsmanship, and with her pearly white body, green decking and green lined keel, flooded with electric light from her own power as she was launched, she was described as ‘a jewel in a rich setting’.

A veritable Queen of the Bay in every respect the new Tangalooma has already had one or two trial runs, the results of which have made it clear that her comfort, strength and serviceability are equal to her appearance in which chromium plate and silver provide the dominant note. 100 A DRIVING FORCE

Audrey Eager. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111257) Fred and Audrey Eager on Tangalooma. Audrey Eager on Tangalooma. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111258) (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111250) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 101

Ketch rigged and equipped with flush deck and raised cabin, the maple serves as a sideboard and bookcase combined, and in it is new cruiser has a length of 45 feet and beam of 13 feet 6 inches, included also a radio receiver and liqueur cabinet. Bridge tables with a draught of 4 feet. She is fitted with a 5 h.p. six cylinder and a gramophone are included in the fittings of this delightful Gardiner Diesel engine with electrical starting equipment. cabin in which the windows operate on the same principle as those in a modern car. Constructed of blue gum planking to the waterline with a one-piece grey ironbark keel, the top, sides and cabin are of Care has been taken to equip the galley with every convenience. Tasmanian huon pine. A commodious frigidaire is here installed for perishable foods, with lockers adjacent for vegetables. A spacious cabin for the ladies is fitted with upper and lower berths, a large wardrobe with full length mirror, another smaller The crew’s quarters are situated for’ard. The spacious beech laid wardrobe, with hat shelf and shoe drawers included. The fittings after deck is fitted with guard rails and a bathing board fitted to are finished in ivory with green facings, the linoleum, carpets, the tuck completes the equipment of a boat that should provide electric light shades and berth covers being all in tone. the acme of comfort. (Steering Wheel, November 1937)

The saloon cabin contains two upper and lower berths, wardrobes of Lawrence Tibbits [sic] sent to the Fred Eagers a book of his latest figured maple and a handy locker for fishing rods and sporting guns. records to play on the Tangalooma. They are autographed, and nobody else has them - yet - in Australia. Larry and Jane were two A spacious deck cabin is fitted with three settees finished in dark people who do not forget their hosts; they adored the trips they blue leather with cane backs. A massive cabinet of Queensland had on the Tangalooma. (Truth, 18 December 1938)

Popular American baritone Lawrence Tibbett (at right) in Australia for a concert tour in 1938, relax on board Fred Eager’s Tangalooma. Note the personal inscription. RECREATION

ESTABLISHMENT OF THE EAGERS RECREATION CLUB The Management purchased a vacant allotment of ground opposite the Newstead premises, on which they erected a Recreation Hall, with special floor for dancing, and containing showers, etc., for the convenience of the staff, a tennis court, complete with lights for night play, a full length cricket pitch, and a putting green for the Golfers.

After this magnificent effort on the part of the Directors, it was not difficult to form a Recreation Club which has gradually embraced within itself almost every form of Recreation.

To-day it is possible for the staff of E.G. Eager & Son Limited and subsidiary companies to join within their own club any or each of the following sections: Cricket, Tennis, Table Tennis, Indoor Bowls, Football, Golf, Horse Riding, Snooker, Fishing, Gliding, Camera, Physical Culture and Swimming - quite a comprehensive list.

We have also our own magazine, which covers fully all these sports and the club’s activities - this is issued free to the staff each month.

Naturally, prior to the formation of the Club, Staff sporting teams were in existence in Cricket Eagazette, April 1939, monthly journal of the Eagers Recreation Club, edited by D.W. Picking. and Tennis, but the grouping of all sports under Grandees included patrons, Fred Eager and one direction has brought the staff closer together George Green; President L.H. Green and and paved the way for the happy camaraderie Vice-President D’Arcy Amos; with E.J. Clowes which exists amongst the members to-day. the Hon. Sec and J.C. Chapman the (Eagazette, 21 July 1939) Hon. Treasurer. Sketches of Eagers staff from the Eagazette. 104 A DRIVING FORCE

Fred Eager’s two holiday houses on the Mooloolah River at Mooloolaba, Fred Eager relaxing with George Green. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111256) north of Brisbane: at left Tangalooma and fourth from the left, Terrawina. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111254)

Audrey Eager is second from left, Fred Eager is driving, with Harry Cavanaugh of One of a series of photographs, captioned: ‘Appointment of a sheriff and deputy G.M.H. seated on the running board. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111261) sheriff at Jack Faulkner’s farm’. George Green, at right, celebrates Christmas American-style, near Boonah. (HB Green & Co) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 105

Fred Eager’s houses on the Mooloolah River were Tangalooma The party was out again on Sunday, and they caught about and Terraweena and Mooloolaba was the launching point for 50 good fish for the week-end. The Count was thrilled with many boating parties, and where many influential visitors the wonderful sight of the Glasshouse Mountains from the sea. were entertained. Moreton Island was a favourite destination, (Nambour Chronicle, 12 August 1938) testified to by Eagers Creek, Eager’s Swamp, Eager’s Hut and Count Felix von Luckner, highly decorated by the German Eager Beach. George Green wrote of a recent fishing trip to government, was on a promotional tour for his country. Moreton Island, in a letter to Fred Eager who was in Florida, dated 16 February 1938. They had visited the Camp, and found white ants in the hut which they had treated with kerosene, ‘next trip we will take along some poison to see if we cannot do the trick, otherwise we shall have to raise the place up on stumps’. Mention is made of the boat being ‘coppered’ and F.Z. was assured that Fred Eager, possibly the boat would be ready on his return. taken at Moreton Island. (STATE LIBRARY OF Another Star Cruiser. Motor boating enthusiasts will recall that QUEENSLAND 111263) only a few months ago Mr. Fred Eager launched a new auxiliary cruiser, the Tangalooma, which attracted a great deal of attention by reason of its modern equipment and beauty. Mr. Eager left shortly after on one of his periodic visits to the United States, and now comes word that he has there purchased yet another cruiser which he is bringing home to Queensland. The name of the new craft is not yet known, but it is understood that it is a twin engined cruiser with a capacity of 25 knots and a length of 30 feet, specially designed for deep sea fishing. Whilst a definite announcement cannot be made until Mr. Eager returns it is understood that he is likely to make Mooloolaba the headquarters for his new craft. (Steering Wheel, January 1938)

Count von Luckner at Mooloolaba. As Count von Luckner was Fred and Audrey Eager leaving Mooloolaba for Brisbane on Sunday afternoon after a and George Green. very successful ﬁshing trip, he amused the crowd around a petrol (STATE LIBRARY OF bowser with whom he had been conversing while his host was QUEENSLAND 111251) preparing for the run back to the city, by taking the petrol pipe from the bowser and ﬁlling his pipe lighter.

“Must have some gas - by Jo!” was his smiling ejaculation.

The Count, who was the guest of Mr. F.Z. Eager, arrived at the resort on Saturday morning, and immediately the party comprising also Messrs. G.E. Green, Bird, and P. Harver set out in Mr. Eager’s boat for the schnapper ground. They had considerable success, and the Count caught a 22lb. schnapper. Mr. G.E. Green hooked a six foot shark, but before it could be shot it broke the tackle. 106 A DRIVING FORCE

Audrey Eager features in A Biographical Record of Queensland Women, Aisla Green, in A Biographical Record of Queensland Women, Webb, Elliot & Co, Webb, Elliot & Co, Desmond Chambers, 303 Adelaide St, Brisbane, 1939. Desmond Chambers, 303 Adelaide St, Brisbane, 1939. Lady Green died in 1997. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 107

The wives of both Fred Eager and George Green were included had brought further expansion and the introduction of the Vauxhall in a 1939 Brisbane publication, A Biographical Record of Wyvern model had helped meet the heavy demand for small cars. Queensland Women, which gave details of women from ‘every A year later, a report in the Sunday Mail related just how successful sphere’ of Queensland life. the body-servicing plant had proved, calling the introduction of the new synthetic enamel finishing process the ‘most notable A Popular Appointment. innovation this year of progress has seen’, and remarking how The establishment of British Dominion Motors in their new Eagers had completely perfected it. They had installed a Kerrick Margaret St., Toowoomba, premises earlier in the year stimulated Kleaner, capable of handling multiple cleaning operations in a business to such an extent that it became necessary to strengthen remarkably short time: the managerial and sales side, and this had led to the appointment Occupying a floor area of 16,500 sq. ft. in Austin St., Newstead, of Mr. Reg Heitman to the position of manager. As a member Eagers Body Service is equipped to handle every type of motor of the sales staff of E.G. Eager and Son Mr. Heitman’s customer body building and repair from removing a rattle to completely goodwill policy and reputation for fair dealing have won for him rebuilding a body. a host of friends that should assure him of success in his new venture. Mr. Heitman was on his father’s station before he entered Eagers invite you to spend an interesting hour the motor industry in 1928 with the Canada Cycle and Motor at their huge Motor Pavilion Agency. Then he joined the E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. organisation A complete showing of General Motors Products as a salesman in the Used Car Division, and later was appointed The Largest and Most Impressive Exhibit on the Showground! assessor and sales manager in that branch. In April this year he was Again this year E.G. Eager & Son Ltd., have a display that so transferred to the position of sales manager of Motors Pty. Ltd., completely covers the field of cars, utilities, trucks, and accessories the metropolitan distributors for Vauxhall, Pontiac and Bedford as to be a show within a show. To assist E.G. Eagers in presenting vehicles. (Steering Wheel, June 1938) such an elaborate display, the associated retail companies have all joined effort. In 1938 Fred Eager told the Annual General Meeting that in turnover of unit vehicles it had been the biggest year of the Eagers Retail Pty. Ltd. Company’s history. The taking over of body service activities, Motors Pty. Ltd. previously conducted by a branch of General Motors-Holden’s Ltd Moran Motors Pty. Ltd.

Former Eagers Sales Manager, Reg Heitman, appointed manager of British Dominion Motors, Toowoomba in 1938. Sunday Truth (Brisbane), (Steering Wheel, June 1938) 14 August 1938. EAGERS GRAND PRIX Over 750 people have already paid for their tickets, so the report goes, for the ball to be given by Eager’s staff to-morrow night at the Trocadero; and, of course, there will be a few who will pay for their tickets at the last minute, we’re sure. Secretary Dot Ganley has “a way wid her”, as well as being a screen star type and shape, and has worked very hard for the dance. Mr Darcy Amos, sales manager of Eager’s and Mrs Amos will be host and hostess. Mrs Amos has a pet of a frock in which to do the honors. The F Z Eagers (Fred Eager is the chairman of directors of the company) will be present at the staff ball. They hurried through their trip South to be present. Mr George Green, managing director, and Mrs Green have a large party. Mr and Mrs J O’Sullivan will also entertain a party in the group of ofﬁcial alcoves. Treasurer D Picking is all smiles, of course, at the assured success of the dance. (Truth, 28 August 1938)

An official souvenir programme of the evening gives details of the ‘Eagers Grand Prix’, a miniature motor race staged that night, for which the prize was a silver trophy similar to the one awarded at the French Grand Prix. Starter was D’Arcy Amos, Clerk of Course was F. Allchurch, T. McManus was Timekeeper, with Handicapper Samuel Stevens, and Judge, B. Withy. The Courier Mail described the event the next day, and noted how blue and gold, the colours of the Eagers Recreation Club had been used in the floral decoration, with the Eagers name spelt out in daffodils and jonquils on a blue ground in the official alcove. Ball committee secretary Dorothy Ganley had organised a remarkably successful evening.

Eagers Service Pty. Ltd. Motor vehicle body service on General Motors’ products in Queensland has hitherto been effected by Messrs. Holden’s Motor Body Builders (a division of Messrs. General Motors-Holdens, Ltd.), 530-566 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley. On Monday August 8, this section of service to General Motors’ products was placed under the supervision of E.G. Eager and Son Ltd. The entire personnel, including the superintendent, the foremen, and the staff employed at Holden’s Motor Body Builders were taken over by Eagers Service Pty. Ltd. (the service division of the organisation), and the complete plant and stocks of material, parts, and body hardware were moved to new premises in Austin Street, Newstead. Eagers Service Pty. Ltd. now constitute a complete plant for the servicing of

Programme for the 1938 Eagers Grand Prix. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 109

General Motors’ products. The premises of the two divisions - chassis service and body service - stand back to back, the body service with frontage to Austin Street, and the chassis service retaining its extensive establishment fronting Evelyn Street. (Steering Wheel, September 1938) Joan Greensill dancing at the Eagers Staff Ball The Eagers Staff Ball had become a looked-forward to institution. in 1937. (Courier-Mail, 31 August 1937) In 1937 staff had danced at the Trocadero under huge clusters of balloons and around the walls humorous deﬁnitions of well known technical terms in the motor world had been arranged as a frieze above the alcoves. With the Fred Eagers and the George Greens in Melbourne, General Sales Manager and President of the Ball Committee, D’Arcy Amos and his wife had received the guests and much of the success was due to the hard working Ball Committee Secretary, Miss Dorothy Ganley and Treasurer, D. Picking. The Courier-Mail devoted two columns to the event.

By 1938 the Staff Ball had reached new heights of sophistication. A report in Truth told that:

Some of the novelty favors were what the Younger Set likes to call “a scream”. One comprised a Frenchy looking set of beard and moustache, jet black in color; Mrs Eager bravely wore it with her severe black frock, with black accessories and two blackbirds in her hair. Before the ball, the Eagers gave a fork dinner in the banqueting hall at Rowe’s. The food was American, and cute - crab in aspic in shapes of schnapper, and pawpaw cut into dinky yellow limousines, with lemon slices for wheels. The table looked simply an epicure’s dream. Funny, but most of the guests at the fork dinner were in either black or white. Mrs George Green, Mesdames Hancock, Winterﬂood, Leslie and Fif Billington and Midge Whippel [Wippell] were in white, and Mrs O’Sullivan, Mrs Stephens, and the others in black. Mrs Lance Giddings looked rather like Joan Crawford.

The prosperous days of the thirties were soon overshadowed by the announcement of war between Britain and Germany. As far as Eagers was concerned, 1938 had been declared the year when the turnover of unit vehicles was the largest in the Company’s history. A heavy demand for small cars was met with the new Vauxhall Wyvern, Planning the third Annual Staff Ball in 1938 are Fred Eager, standing to address someone and business prospects in Queensland seemed promising. The wrapped smartly in fur. On his left are brothers Lawrence and George Green. Note the construction for new workshop buildings at Newstead, adjoining poster for the event. the existing workshops, was authorised in January 1939 and by February further adjacent land had been purchased in Austin Street. 110 A DRIVING FORCE

As far as military service was concerned, Company records show RECREATION CLUB BLAZER Specially Designed Monogram that it was encouraged: for Eagers’ Recreation Club. A special blazer and pocket have been chosen by the committee for Eagers’ Recreation Club It was resolved in order to encourage employees to enlist in the members. This blazer will be essentially Eagers in character militia volunteers and to ensure that they did not suffer any and will only be issued to members of Eagers’ Recreation Club disability in consequence of enlistment that in all cases special through a special order from the Secretary, E.J. Clowes. The leave would be granted to attend encampments in addition to the blazer itself is of good Venetian cloth, bottle green in colour and ordinary annual recreation leave and that the difference between will be made to measure especially for the purchaser. A special each employee volunteer’s military pay during the encampment and pocket has been designed for the Club in the form of a quartered his ordinary rate of salary or wages would be paid by the company. shield - the top left hand quarter contains a white winged wheel on a red background symbolising the Motor Industry. The top This was much appreciated by the staff and an article in the right hand quarter contains two green laurel bands symbolising Company Newsletter, the Eagazette recorded: the sporting laurels for which the club teams are striving. This is on a gold background. The bottom left hand quarter has an EAGERS MILITIA MEN THANK THE MANAGEMENT ... athlete throwing a discus on a gold background, the symbol of The many members of the staff of E.G. Eager & Son Limited the sporting activities of the Club, whilst the bottom right hand who recently joined the Militia Forces have asked us to thank quarter has a micrometer and sliding gauge intertwined on a red the Management for their generous gesture in allowing them background - this symbolising the workshop and mechanical side time off to attend Camps and making up the difference in of the Industry. The shield is surmounted by two red Poinsettias, wages so that their usual weekly amount will not be affected. Brisbane’s national flower, between which are set the initials This is in addition to the usual two weeks’ Annual Holiday “E.R.C.” in gold. Under the shield is a scroll with the specially which will not be affected. composed latin quotation – “Laudent Qui Bene Laborant” - meaning, “They may play who work well,” which boiled down CLUB COMMITTEE NOTES. We will, commencing with this actually means, “Recreation After Good Service.” The whole issue, publish each month the resolution carried by the General pocket should look particularly well on the green background of Club Committee at its monthly meetings. At a meeting of the the blazer. A small metal badge is also being prepared with the Club Committee held in the Club rooms on the 20th instant, it same design and will be available this week to Club members was decided that a Club blazer should be available to members. for 1/- each, with either a brooch, stud for men’s lapels or a long The colour chosen is bottle green, and a suitably inscribed pocket tie-pin as a backing. The cost of these blazers will be - Made will be fitted. Details of manufacture are well under way, and it is to measure, complete with padded shoulders, full front, lined anticipated that prices, etc., will be advised almost immediately. sleeves, etc., for a special price of 35/ each, the pocket being 7/6 The Football Club members will be pleased to learn that a grant each extra. The material in this case being of the finest Venetian of £4/-/- is to be made to them, for the purchase of necessary cloth. Other quality blazers will be available from 22/6 each. Any equipment. The Club Rooms are to be made available each Friday member of the Club is entitled to wear one of these blazers and if evening for a lecture by Mr. J. Ingram. While mainly for the he has taken part in any sport connected with the Club, this may Works employees, anybody interested will be welcomed. Physical be placed under the pocket. However, he must obtain an order culturists will be interviewed with a view to obtaining necessary from the Secretary, Mr. E.J. Clowes. Further particulars may be information as to what form their training will take, so that obtained from either D.W. Picking, Advertising, or E.J. Clowes, equipment may be purchased, if practicable. (Eagazette) Secretary, Moran Motors Pty. Ltd., City. (Eagazette) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 111

The Eagers Recreation Club Football Team in the ‘Recreation Club News’ in April 1939. Top row: G. Crane, C. Mark, C. Morrow, R. Stafford, A. Ebrington (Treasurer), N. Collier, H. Kelly, A. Jarrett, J. Reith. Middle row: L. Burrup, R. Rogers, C. McKeon, C. Banks, A. Appleyard, W. Flemming, J.W. Morrow, R. Miller, K. McCabe. Front row: T. Reid (Secretary, Football Club), C. Christensen, G.E. Green (Patron), F. Bayada (Captain), J. Morris (President, Football Club), S. Brown (Vice-Captain), J. Clowes (Secretary, Recreation Club). 112 A DRIVING FORCE

Aisla and George Green with their daughters Clodagh (later Clodagh Blackley) and American tenor Richard Crooks, at left, who gave a series of concerts at Brisbane Diane (later Diane Colman) and son George Green Jnr, born in 1939 who would City Hall, with Fred Eager at Mooloolaba in 1939. become Chairman of Directors of Eagers. (Green family archive)

The Governor-General of Australia, Lord Gowrie, followed by the Governor of Fred Eager at right, in stern. Audrey Eager in centre. George Green ‘peering’, Queensland, Sir Leslie Wilson, both keen followers of rowing, board Fred Eager’s partly obscured. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111269) boat Wollomai, from which they followed the King’s Cup race on 13 May 1939. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111270) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 113

A happy occasion in the life of the Company was announced Mrs A.J. Jones watched from Fred Eager’s launch Wollomai. Lord in the Eagazette: Gowrie later presented the King’s Cup, a gold cup, first won in 1919 by a crew of A.I.F. men in the Henley Peace Regatta, when Our Congratulations. The Staff will join with us in congratulating the Managing Director, Mr. G.E. Green and Australia defeated Oxford. Mrs. Green on the birth of a son, George Richard Charles, A prominent American visitor for a fishing excursion at Mooloolaba on April 15th. in July 1939 was Richard Crooks, the well-known tenor who had The event was also recorded in Fred Eager’s Log Book for the renewed acquaintance with Fred Eager in New York eighteen Tangalooma: ‘GEORGE GREEN JUNIOR ARRIVED 10.00 A.M.’ months previously and who was in Brisbane to give a series of He was on a fishing trip and the news was ‘boated’ out to him. concerts at the City Hall:

Another highly social event was the King’s Cup regatta, held on the Mr Crooks was the guest of Mr F Z Eager and was accompanied Hamilton reach of the Brisbane River, on 13 May 1939. Governor- by his wife and son, Richard. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday General, Lord Gowrie, and Lady Gowrie, the Queensland Governor they spent at Mr Eager’s holiday home at Mooloolaba. Each day Sir Leslie Wilson, and the Lord and Lady Mayoress, Alderman and they went out deep sea ﬁshing.

Fred Eager’s Wollomai ﬂies the Governor General’s A page from log book of Fred Eager’s Tangalooma Audrey Eager. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111267) standard. Lord Gowrie was off to watch the King’s Cup with the announcement of the birth of George Green’s race in May of 1939. (Sunday Mail, 14 May 1939). son in 1939. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111271) [STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111265] 114 A DRIVING FORCE

A solid presence in Townsville by the time of the second World War. Staff Photo, E.G. Eager and Son Limited, Townsville Branch, 1939. Front row: J.C. Morris, H.L. McDonald, E.V. Roebuck, Hugh Corley, R.F.C. Godwin (Manager), H.V. Ross, C.A. Blackman, F.A. Blackman, F. Hawkins. Second row: M.I. Codd, M.B. Sherriff, C.P. Parker, E.M. Wilson, M. Cochrane, V.A. Buchanan, K.P. Staunton, M.L. Baker, M.F. Sproule, S.R. Andrews, M. Denham. Third row: W.H.C. Stratford, R.G. Grimmer, R.H. Grimmer, J.A. Lynch, M.K.D. Rooney, C.W. Stock, E.H. Browning, V.J. Arnold, G.J. Morris. Fourth row: J.M. Chandler, R. Winn, W.J. Carrington, W.B. Lound, W.J. Nixon, L. McDougall, P. Swirgsden, W.A.L. Kinging. Back row: W.P. Nelson, H.A.L. Barton, L.J. Bennett, A.W. Pearson, V.J. Madsen, S.T. Verra, K.G. Drummond. (Photographer: Don J. Peiniger, Townsville) chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 115

In July 1939, all the mechanical staff of the Company were brought under the Coach Makers and Metal Trades Federal Award, in line with other motor traders, and from September the Directors of the Company met weekly because of the expected effect of the European War. In January 1940 Eagers decided they would not continue further to provide any pay allowance to any member of staff called up for military duty either for militia training, conscription under the 21 year basis or enlistment in the A.I.F., other than for managers or other high executives who might be given special consideration. Meanwhile the Chairman of the Company seemed unconcerned. Steering Wheel in February 1940 told its readers that Fred Eager was:

Among the Marlin. From his fishing headquarters at Mooloolaba, Mr. Fred Eager has been going out with some friends after the big fish, in his deep sea speedster, Woolamai, and has been having exciting sport. ... Mr. Eager, on January 12, hooked a 760lbs. bronze whale shark which was on the line fighting for its life for 9hrs. 45min. before it was eventually brought to the gaff. In that time it had hauled the Woolamai for many miles and, when it eventually capitulated, the boat was 25 miles further out to sea than when the shark took the hook. The journey back to Mooloolaba was as far as from Southport to Brisbane.

The Eagers stand at the 1939 Show was to be their last until 1946, and they excelled themselves by having what was arguably the best and largest display there. This was well advertised in the Courier Mail Exhibition Supplement, which featured the Cadillacs, Pontiac, Buick, Oldsmobile, La Salle, the popular Vauxhall Wyvern as well as other models, and the range of General-Motors utilities and trucks. Displays of all the necessary Shark trophies at the Sydney official game fish weighing station, see those marked for G. Green (at far left) and F. Eager (third and fifth from left). (Green family archive) spare parts were also at hand.

Accessories to make motoring more enjoyable will also be a feature of the display, which will embrace everything from Air-Chief Radio to cigar lighters. A display of Delco-Light plants (another product of General Motors) will also interest every country visitor who is interested in lighting his property electrically.

By the time of the next Show in 1940 the Company, like many other motor concerns such as Overland, advertised that their exhibits were in their various Showrooms, in Adelaide Street. 116 A DRIVING FORCE

Courier-Mail, 20 August 1940. WARTIME In April 1940 the Brisbane plant of GMH celebrated the assembly of 25,000 units since it had opened six years before. Press and advertising agents were the guests of Eagers, and saw the 25,000th vehicle, a 1940 Pontiac ‘Silver Arrow’. The Courier Mail reported:

Congratulating the plant executives on their achievement on behalf of E.G. Eager and Son Pty. Ltd., Mr. Darcy Amos (general sales manager) stressed the value to his ﬁrm of the Brisbane branch of General Motors-Holden’s. He said that the works produced cars and trucks in Queensland for Queenslanders, and that the expenditure resulting in such production was incurred in Queensland.

It had been resolved to adopt a recommendation by Thynne & Macartney that the Stock Exchange be notiﬁed that all transfers of shares in the Company were to be accompanied by declarations certifying that the parties to the transactions were not enemy

Courier-Mail, subjects and that the transactions were not made on behalf of or 26 July 1944. for the beneﬁt of enemy subjects.

In line with war economy measures to cut fuel costs, Eagers, as the Queensland distributors, announced the availability of ‘The Fleetway’ Gas Producer unit, manufactured by The Fleet-Forge Pty Ltd of South Melbourne. The possibilities of producer gas had been investigated for two years previously, in the hope of building a unit to suit Australian conditions. The unit could be ﬁtted to any make of truck or tractor, and passenger cars, was simple to operate, and had a power output equal to 65 per cent of that obtained from a truck using petrol and under normal conditions. The unit was easily ﬁtted and was approved by the Commonwealth Government. A complete motor ambulance wagon, costing approx £500, was to be given by the Company to the Queensland Division of the Red Cross Society. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 117

Eagazette. 118 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Used Cars continued to be ‘the hub of Brisbane’s Used Car Trade’ and they could boast that more used cars were sold by them than by any other ﬁrm in Brisbane. Their ten point plan assured potential buyers that their cars were safety tested, and each was supplied with a new battery. The Showroom at the corner of Creek and Adelaide Streets was to have its lease renewed for a further year. In Townsville the lease of the storage shed at the inner wharf was renewed for a further period of three years. Messrs G.S. Hutton and Macfarlane were yet again re-elected as auditors at the Annual General Meeting of the Company, a move warmly received.

Although the public was encouraged to ‘avoid wasting petrol’, and mileage restrictions were introduced, the partying continued, but with a benevolent flavour. At the annual ball of the Royal Queensland Yacht Club held at the Trocadero at South Brisbane on 14 August 1940, the Commodore and Mrs. Bruce welcomed the vice regal party, assisted by Mrs. F.Z. Eager, wife of the vice commodore. The ball enabled a sum of about £70 to be added to King George’s Fund for Sailors and A truck ﬁtted with Fleetway gas unit, available from Eagers during World War II. (Steering Wheel, July 1940) the Merchant Navy. At the Royal Queensland Yacht Club the Flag Officers’ dance held in the Club Rooms on the evening of October 17, where in the absence of the Commodore, Mr. F.A. Bruce, upwards of 200 guests were received by the Vice-Commodore, Mr. F.Z. Eager, and Mrs. Eager, the entire proceeds of that function were in aid of the funds of the Queensland Naval Auxiliary.

At Christmas the press related that:

The F.Z. Eagers, as usual, will take to the sea for the holiday season; will drop in at whichever seaside resort suits their fancy for Christmas day. Expect to see quite a lot of them at Southport: also on the North Coast, as Mooloolaba seems to be their favourite surﬁng spot. Went there last week-end and spent a few days.

And again:

(The) F.Z. Eagers made their headquarters at their lovely home at Mooloolaba. Mrs. F.Z. was seen shooting mid-day breakers in stunning silver-white swim-suit. Quite a few informal festive gatherings staged at the Eagers’ abode, Terraweena. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 119

The Steering Wheel recorded early in 1941:

Representatives of the Royal Queensland Yacht Club and kindred clubs played an important part in the success of the Sportsmen’s Carnival at Government House grounds. It was in the nature of things that members of all sporting bodies should rally round Sir Leslie Wilson in this fine effort for the benefit of the Red Cross as His Excellency has always proved himself an out and out sportsman. Mrs. F.A. Bruce, wife of the Commodore, Mrs. F.Z. Eager and Mrs. D.R. Dowling, wives of the flag officers, did splendid work at the various stalls. Considerable crowds were attracted by the huge bronze whaler shark caught recently off Mooloolaba by Mr. Fred Z. Eager.

Mr. F.Z. Eager, Vice Commodore of the Yacht Club, is out again with a party of friends from Mr. Eager’s ﬁshing headquarters at Mooloolaba and this time it is marlin he is after. There should be a good story in their experiences before the holidays are over if our big game ﬁshing expert can be induced to tell it.

Later in 1941, Vice-Commodore F.Z. Eager and Rear- Commodore D.R. Dowling were each re-elected for their second term. The annual ball of the RQYC at the Trocadero on August 14 was one of the social events of the month, and His Excellency the Governor, as Patron of the club, was received by the Vice-Commodore and Mrs. Eager.

Arrangements had been made with Messrs John McGrath Ltd for the Hillman franchise to be taken over from 1 July 1941 ‘for Courier-Mail, 7 August 1941. the territory for that portion of Queensland covering the 22nd parallel’. At the 1941 Annual General Meeting the staff were thanked for their efﬁcient execution of duties ‘in a troublesome year’ and sympathy was expressed for those who would suffer by the anticipated retrenching.

Courier-Mail, 9 August 1941. An interesting event at the end of 1941 was the Producer Gas Car Rally. The excursion was arranged by the Institution of Automotive Engineers, Australia (Queensland Division). The party totalled 66, including a number of invited guests. Among the units were two ‘Pedericks’, one driven by Wally Webb of Eagers. 120 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Retail undertook the handling of all GMH parts for the U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, Dutch Army, and as required by the Audrey Eager, seen here with her husband Australian Army, for the mechanical and body service of GMH Fred Eager (centre) vehicles in operation by these Forces. received a fund- raising award during By July 1941 Fred Eager made special reference to the prospects World War II. of poor business in the motor trade in the immediate future, and (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111249) spoke of drastic economies that would have to be made, including the anticipated retrenchment of Company staff.

With the escalation of the war in the Paciﬁc following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour on 7 December 1941, American troops on their way to the Philippines were diverted to Brisbane. On 22 December 1941 the American convoy, Task Force South Paciﬁc, sailed up the Brisbane River to berth at Hamilton. Leading them, on the northern side of the river, was the Commodore of the Royal Queensland Yacht Club, and on the southern side the Vice Commodore, Fred Eager, in his yacht Tangalooma, with a large party on board, all to the delight of tens of thousands of spectators. At a supper dance

The Brisbane hosted by the American Consul at the Belle Vue Hotel that night headquarters in Fred and Audrey Eager were among the distinguished guests. Wickham Street and its wartime functions General Douglas MacArthur as Supreme Commander Allied featured in the 1946 Forces South-West Pacific, made his headquarters in Brisbane. publication War Record. General As President of The Brisbane Club during the war years Motors-Holden’s Ltd. Fred Eager had a great deal to do with his fellow countrymen. He made them welcome and when General MacArthur departed Brisbane for the Philippines in 1944 he presented to the club a bronze plaque: ‘To the Brisbane Club. An appreciation from American Army and Navy officers who had the privilege of being its guests, 1942-44.’

Wartime conditions saw Eagers stock turnover drastically reduced and at an Extraordinary General Meeting in February 1942 it was QUEENSLAND announced that economic conditions due to the war had led to BRISBANE AREA the serious move of the Company’s capital being reduced from Re-conditioning Allison and Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines for U.S.A.A.F., £115,000 to £65,000. Re-conditioning Army Vehicles, Wooden Benches, Cordite Trucks, Car and Truck Chassis Assembly, Servicing Vehicles for U.S. and Australian Armed Forces. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 121

Many staff enlisted. Hugh Corley joined the army in Townsville at the end of 1941 and served as a driver in a Transport Company. Later he transferred to AASC and in 1944 was commissioned at Lae, in New Guinea. Lieutenant Corley was discharged at the end of the war, in Brisbane early in 1946 and he returned to Eagers.

Three allotments in Evelyn Street on the western side of the Company’s property had been purchased by October 1942, and the two cottages on the land were to be sold for removal so that the new building required for the American Army could be erected without delay. Subsequently M.R. Hornibrook Pty Ltd’s tender of £5480 for constructing the extension was accepted. The next month Lawrence Green, brother of George and Bill Green, was appointed an additional Director of the Company.

Soon a further two allotments on Breakfast Creek Road adjoining Evelyn Street corner block were purchased, a cottage removed, and a new building for the Lend-Lease trucks was to be erected. Company records in March 1943 noted:

It was resolved to apply under National Security Regulations, to the commonwealth authorities for permission to construct on the whole of the Breakfast Creek Road newly purchased property a building for handling “Lend-Lease” trucks for the Commonwealth Government Division of Import Procurement.

That September, the lease of the paddock of the Newstead Wharves and Stevedoring Coy. Ltd., adjoining the workshop in Evelyn Street, was renewed for a further ﬁve years and there was a renewal of the lease of 293 Adelaide Street, occupied by Brisbane Automotive Service Co, for a further three years. A letter had been received from U.S. Army Ordnance Department renewing the contract for the handling of motor vehicle parts for a further three months terminating on 31 December 1943.

The Company’s Parts Department American Army Store was to handle retail parts supplied for all vehicles, instead of the Bulk American ofﬁcers join Fred Eager, seated, and on his left, George Green. Parts Store for American Army vehicles of General Motors origin only. There was increased difﬁculty in selling gas producers and those in stock were to have their price reduced. 122 A DRIVING FORCE

A United States Army Telephone Directory dated October 1943 £5000 was subscribed to the Victory Loan. From the beginning records that their Motor Supply Division included a Parts Depot of May 1944 the Accessories Department counter sales would at Eagers, Newstead, including a Shop, Control Ofﬁce and Paint be transferred from E.G. Eager to Eagers Retail Pty Ltd. Shop. The May 1944 issue shows an Ordnance Maintenance Fred Eager resolved to donate £100 each to various patriotic Civilian Shop at Eagers Garage; another for February 1945 shows funds, the Australian Red Cross Society to which they would that a Civilian Maintenance Shop was at Eagers. continue to give annual donations, the Queensland Patriotic The American Army renewed its contract as far as operation of & Australian Comforts Fund (Qld Divn) who would receive a Parts Department was concerned for a further three months, to further £150 in May, the Gowrie Scholarship Trust Fund (Qld), the end of March 1944. A house property on the southern side of and The Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal. the Eagers building in Breakfast Creek Road was purchased and In May 1944 George Green was granted leave of absence to attend the house next to this was also purchased the following month. the North Queensland Sessions of the Army Compensations The American Army Parts Department contract was again renewed, to June 1944. Ordnance material was to be stored, Appeal Court of which he was a member. The American recorded and issued in addition to automotive parts. Army contract had been terminated at the end of July 1944 in accordance with the policy to concentrate all their ordinance supplies in Brisbane at the Army Banyo Store, a decision rescinded by August 1944 when the Company assumed personnel control of the American Army’s chief overseas depot for Australia at Banyo. The American Army was also interested in taking over the Company’s Townsville branch for an army ordinance store.

At the 1944 Annual General Meeting, Fred Eager was able to comment favourably upon the Company’s increased turnover, largely due to its extended activities in war contracts which included the conduct of the main United States Army motor vehicle parts store for the supply of the Army’s local service workshops. Further turnover had been made possible by the distribution for the Commonwealth Government of Lend-Lease trucks of General Motors’ origin and the greater business effected throughout the territory by the Eagers Parts Depot which in co-operation with the Commonwealth Government had served high priority holders of essential service vehicles.

Towards the end of 1944 the American Army authorities asked that Eagers take over the operation of the American Army vehicle pools maintenance workshops at Whinstanes, Victoria Park and Albert Street. The Disposals Commission had decided to

General Douglas MacArthur, Commander in Chief of Allied Forces in the South West Paciﬁc. sell army surplus vehicles to the public through the established motor trade channels and Eagers was to handle the Queensland distribution of surplus vehicles of General Motors origin. chapter three – THE THIRTIES AND THEN WAR 123

Wartime telephone directory issued by the United States Army. 124 A DRIVING FORCE

A small war-time advertisement in the Courier-Mail, 18 December 1944, at a time when few were placed at all.

Post-war recovery advertisement Eagers ran this spirited piece in the Courier-Mail in the Courier-Mail, 19 July 1944. at the end of 1944 and again halfway through the following year. chapter four

DYNASTIC CHANGE (1945–1957) Post-war reconstruction. Arrival of the Holden. Death of Fred Eager in 1949. George Green takes charge. 126 A DRIVING FORCE

Fred Eager chaired the 1945 Annual General Meeting. He remarked that the Company’s war contracts had been executed to Fthe entire satisfaction of the responsible authorities throughout the ﬁnancial year. Until the arrival of post-war new vehicles from Britain and America, the Company’s main operation would be the reconditioning and distribution of Army surplus vehicles of General Motors origin throughout Queensland. The total number of Eagers employees in August 1945 stood at 398, compared with 489 in 1939. In Toowoomba the number was down from 53 to 39; in Townsville from 47 to 45; Mackay in 1945 had six employees and North Western Motors at Hughenden had ceased to exist.

By May 1945 the sale of North Western Motors Pty Ltd at Hughenden to Mr Hanran was ready for completion and soon it was decided to sell the Eagers Maryborough premises to the tenant, Hecker and Co Pty Ltd.

Early in 1945 the Commonwealth Surplus Stores Disposal Board The ﬁrst Eagers advertisement Courier-Mail, 8 August 1945. after peace was declared, in the had started to dispose of surplus vehicles from the army vehicle Courier-Mail, 22 August 1945. pools at Mt Gravatt in Brisbane, Harristown in Toowoomba, from Charters Towers and from Tolga in North Queensland. But the rate of release of the vehicles was so slow that orders were not likely to be ﬁlled for many months, and records show that orders for army disposals at 31 March 1945 stood at 569 with only 40 deliveries made.

Charitable donations in 1945 included £150 to the fund of the Newstead District Battle Station No 34 of the Queensland Patriotic and Australian Comforts Fund Appeal for 1945; £5,000 to the Fourth Victory Loan through Messrs Henry Horstmann & Co; and £100 to the Lord Mayor’s Food for Britain Appeal Fund. The Company decided that monthly donations to the Red Cross were to be continued until the end of that ﬁnancial year. The following year donations were made to the Queensland Bush Children’s Health Scheme and to the Queensland People’s Party as the State Division of the Liberal Party of Australia, in response to its appeal for ﬁnancial support to contest the forthcoming Federal elections.

The ﬁrst major expansion after the war was the opening of a branch at Mackay in 1945, to handle the sale of vehicles, spare parts and for servicing vehicles. Negotiations started at the beginning of that year with the Eagers dealer, Ronald Motors Pty Ltd, for the

Victory at last. (Courier-Mail, 17 August 1945) chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 127

Notice to customers purchase of his stock and workshop equipment by Eagers Retail in 1947 of the return of Motors Ltd to their Pty Ltd, who from then on would be the Mackay dealer. They former premises in took out a ﬁve year lease of premises from the former Ford dealers Adelaide Street. Desmond Chambers, James Croker & Sons, on the western side of Wood Street near the a signiﬁcant brick Gordon Street intersection. building designed by Atkinson & McLay (later Hugh Corley took over the management of Mackay early in 1946 303 Adelaide Street) after he was discharged from the army and business expanded had been requisitioned by the American Army rapidly. He married a local girl there, Joyce Webster and they and for use as a canteen. their two children remained in Mackay until 1955.

The ﬁrst Brisbane Exhibition after the war was fairly incomplete. Shortages of materials had meant many new car and truck models could not be featured. Production was increasing, but could not meet the enormous demand for new vehicles. Eagers managed to display the new Chevrolet sedan which had reached Brisbane only the day before the Show opened, as well as the Vauxhall Senior and Wyvern models and Chevrolet and Maple Leaf trucks. A further display could be seen at the Adelaide Street showroom.

In August 1946 the Chairman reviewed the year’s operations ‘as a period of transition from war contracts to normal civilian industry - a period mainly occupied by co-operation with the Commonwealth Government in the disposal of Army surplus Victory Chevrolets vehicles and the replacement of workshop service to American and were available at Australian Armies with the re-establishment of service for civilian the 1946 Brisbane motorists’. He warned the meeting that the forthcoming year Ekka. (Courier-Mail, 12 August 1946) promised great trouble in returning to the normal distribution of vehicles and their maintenance.

However, various necessary improvements were soon under way. A deposit had been placed on the building in Adelaide Street occupied by Brisbane Automotive Service Company (BASCO), a division of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd. Renovations, mainly consisting of much needed painting, had been made to the building occupied by Eagers Service Pty Ltd, work that had been delayed because of wartime problems. In the Eagers Used Cars Pty Ltd building, new concrete ﬂooring and electrical ﬁttings were added. Purchase of yet another residence in Evelyn Street would allow further expansion of the workshop building, and land was bought at Nundah. 128 A DRIVING FORCE

Christmas in Mackay at Eagers Retail Pty Ltd in 1949. At far left Maple Leaf trucks at Creek Street. Manager Hugh Corley is holding Hugh Charles Corley. Counting the number of Holden cars on the road was a favourite childhood pastime for Eagers children. (Corley family archive) chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 129

GENERAL MOTORS-HOLDEN S(GMH) A new chapter in Australian motoring history was on the drawing-board, with the imminent arrival of the Holden. Russell S. Begg, chief engineer of General Motors Holden’s Ltd, who had been in charge of the design of the new Australian car, on his arrival in Sydney explained in an article in the Road Ahead in mid 1947, that the car should be on the market by the end of that year. No name had as yet been chosen, nor could the market price yet be estimated. He said that the components of the car would be made in South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales. The car had been designed in Detroit, to take advantage of the vast GMH facilities there, and Australians had been in Detroit giving advice on local requirements. By October 1948 advertising informed an eager public:

Holden will be precision built...Watch for it... Holden will be here soon. The Holden ‘ute’, part of the landscape since its first appearance in 1951. Road sign, Cape Pallarenda, Townsville. (B. Starkey) The first Holden, a 48-215 ivory sedan, later to be known by its original nickname, the FX, was launched at Fisherman’s Bend on 29 November 1948, at a ceremony where guests included the Prime Minister, Ben Chifley, and James Robert Holden representing the Holden family. The Holden was on display to Queenslanders at a special showing in Brisbane on 14 December 1948, priced at £675 plus sales tax.

The Road Ahead in December 1948 described the innovation:

The first effective step towards establishment of car manufacture in Australia was taken in January 1945, and consequently plant and equipment have involved heavy new expenditures. Fisherman’s Bend will concentrate on manufacture of engines, castings, and main mechanical components. Woodville will produce bodies and all pressed metal parts. The first delivery will be made to the public in January, 1949. Flags of Australia and the United States flank the stage for the Brisbane launch A 48-215 Holden built in 1950 was acquired in 1970 for the of the first all-Australian car, the 48-215 model Holden, later nicknamed the Scienceworks collection of the Museum of Victoria. There it is ‘FX’. George Green (at left) congratulates GMH General Sales Manager ranked with other pieces of transport history such as a Cobb and Harry Cavanaugh in December 1948. The model was a four-door, six-seater, with a 2.15 litre six cylinder engine and was constructed at Fisherman’s Bend. Co coach and Melbourne’s first cable tram. Three years later Holden launched the ‘ute’, followed by the ‘FJ’ in 1953. 130 A DRIVING FORCE

Lunch menu for a Vauxhall Bedford dealers’ convention held in Brisbane in March 1949 where guests dined on Wyvern chicken and Velox turkey at Mt Coot-tha, followed by a dinner at Lennons Hotel.

Set-up for the Vauxhall Bedford Convention at Eagers in 1949. Headquarters of E.G. Eager & Son Limited, Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead. Note the sign for Nasco Accessories (National Automotive Service Company) over the door, and the names of leading car brands along the facade. chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 131

TOWNSVILLE By the end of 1947 the Townsville branch noted a considerable increase in the turnover of parts and accessories and a slight Denzil Cowen, improvement in the turnover of tyres and tubes, whereas there appointed Manager had been a heavy reduction in petrol sales, batteries, radio and of Eagers Townsville electrical goods and some reduction in oil and grease turnover. in 1948. Records state that ‘returns from new and used cars were practically negligible compared with last year’. Richard Godwin had followed Bill Ikin as Manager in Townsville, a position he held until he became ill for a short time, and died on 17 July 1948 after 25 years service with the company including 22 years as Manager of the Townsville branch. Eagers remembers him as a man closely associated with many aspects of Townsville’s community life. Hugh Corley had been transferred from Mackay to Townsville to oversee operations during Bill Ikin’s illness, and later in 1948 Denzil Cowen was appointed the next branch Manager there. Warringa, 26 Cleveland In October that year it was decided to buy a manager’s residence Terrace, Melton Hill, for the Townsville branch at the corner of Cleveland Terrace Townsville, bought by Eagers as a manager’s residence and Armati Street, Melton Hill, for which they paid £4,150. in 1948. (Arch Fraley This was the historic Warringa, a single-storeyed brick residence Photographics, Townsville) built for solicitor Jacob Leu in 1912, now with the addition of an encircling verandah, featuring paired timber verandah posts and decorative iron railing. The house was ready for occupation by the Cowen family by March 1949, and would be much appreciated by later Eagers Managers such as Pat Gannon and Keith Bowerman. It was described in the Townsville Daily Bulletin on 21 February 1978:

“Warringa” is a familiar landmark, standing proudly in three- quarters of an acre of ground, bounded by three streets. It comprises 40 squares of gracious, tropical living space and its to provide an annual medical examination of key personnel National Trust classiﬁcation is testimony to its historical value. of the organisation. Dr R.G. Anderson had been appointed company physician at a fee of £1/1/- per person examined. In 1949 the Flinders Tyre and Battery Service Company opened for X-rays of the chest and electrocardiagraph (sic) examinations business under the supervision of the Townsville Branch Manager. required by Dr Anderson would be performed by Specialists at a cost of £1/1/- and £2/2/- each respectively. At Eagers the care of staff had always been a key concern in company planning, and according to the records, early in February 1948 Dr Graham Anderson had been invited to take the position by a medical service was instituted to commence from 1 March 1948: Lawrence Green, who was a great friend. 132 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Townsville in the early 1950s. (Fraley Studio, Townsville) A prominent General Motors dealership in Palmer Street, South Townsville. (Arch Fraley photograph)

Motors Pty Ltd, Townsville, 30 June 1954. (Fraley Studio, Townsville) Arch Fraley photograph. chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 133

Eagers Townsville, 30 June 1954. (Fraley Studio, Townsville)

Vauxhalls displayed at Motors Townsville, c.1960. Holden conference, Townsville, 1953. At the head table facing the camera, from left to right are: Hugh Corley, Bob Chrystal, Denzil Cowen, Bill Green, Joe Dillon and Geoff Stanton. 134 A DRIVING FORCE

Service Managers Course Townsville, 1956. Seated in front row, from left to right: C. Butterworth, (Edwards Cycles and Motors, Home Hill), R. Ireland (F.R. Ireland and Co Cairns), H. Bird, (Eagers Townsville), D.P. Purtell (G.M.H. Zone Service Manager, Brisbane), D.R. Cowen (Manager, Eagers Townsville), C. Silverlock (G.M.H. Instructor, Melbourne), S. Dibella (Central Service Stn, Tully), G. Parker (McDonald Motors Agencies, Cairns), E. Donnelly (Turner Agencies, Atherton). Seated in back row: J. Kirkland (Towers Moters, Charters Towers), J. McConachie (Dobbos Pty Ltd, Proserpine), M. Long (Barney Long & Co, Cloncurry), M. Byrne (Eagers Townsville), R. Rogers (Eagers Townsville), F. Aston (Barkly Motors, Mt Isa), V. Madsen (Eagers Townsville), R. Horen (Whites Service Stn, Ayr). Standing: B.J. Cannon (Northern Sales Manager), A.D. McDonald (Zone Sales Rep.), F.A. Blackman (Eagers Townsville), F. Dodds (Eagers Retail, Mackay), F. Delaforce (I.C. Taylor Pty Ltd, Innisfail), C. Olsen (Pt Curtis Motors, Gladstone), J.J. Fallon (Northern Field Service Rep.), D.G. George (Zone Sales Rep.). chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 135

Eagers Townsville staff c.1950, with Manager Denzil Cowen in the centre of the front row. The number of female employees had increased after World War II. 136 A DRIVING FORCE

FINAL ILLNESS AND DEATH OF FRED Z. EAGER The end of the Eager era was fast approaching. Company records show that on 28 September 1949 a meeting was held at Fred Eager’s residence, Craigston, Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, attended by Fred Eager, Directors George Green, Lawrence Green, and also Bill Green who was then the Managing Director of United Motors Ltd, Adelaide; and the Secretary:

Mr G E Green reported that Mr W A Green was resigning from his Adelaide position and moved that he be elected a director of the board and also that he be appointed Assistant Managing Director of E G Eager & Son Pty Ltd at £1820 per annum.

Fred Eager who was by then seriously ill, requested that the meeting be adjourned and be held at the Company’s ofﬁce that afternoon, and he did not attend the Directors meeting in October. He died at home on 16 November 1949. As a mark of respect, all the branches of his Company were closed for half a day. His son, Edward McMaken Eager, had taken no formal interest in Eagers, though the Estate of F.Z. Eager would retain At Driftwood, the Green family beach house at Southport are from left to right: a large shareholding. Audrey Eager had died a year before her Aisla and George Green, her sister Nell Taylor, Audrey Eager, Colonel Harry Cavanaugh and Miriam (Midge) Wippell. (Green family archive) husband, on 13 November 1948, a year after they celebrated their silver wedding anniversary.

The Road Ahead in December 1949 recorded:

IN MEMORIAM. DOMINANT MOTORING PERSONALITY PASSES FREDERIC ZINA EAGER, Chairman of Directors of E.G. Eager & Son Pty. Ltd., Queensland and Northern Rivers’ Distributors for General Motors-Holden’s Ltd., died peacefully at his home, “Craigston”, Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, when the sun was at its meridian on Wednesday, November 16, 1949, after a prolonged illness, aged 62.

Hundreds of friends in ﬁnal tribute entered St. Augustine’s Church of England, at Hamilton, Brisbane, where subdued and soulful strains of organ music and the fragrance of ﬂowers blended chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 137

reverently with an impressive service delivered by Archdeacon Birch which concluded with a stirring rendition of Handel’s “Dead March” in Saul. The long cortege then proceeded to Mt. Thompson Crematorium.

The beautiful flowers which adorned the altar of the Church and elsewhere, were placed there a few days previously at the request of Mr. Eager as a loving anniversary tribute to his wife, who pre-deceased him twelve months ago. He had not enjoyed good health since his bereavement. Although by nature a man of quiet reserve, Mr. Fred Eager was nevertheless possessed of those attributes of tolerance, charity and resolution, which forcibly characterised his accomplishments in diversified spheres of endeavour for the benefit of mankind.

The standards he observed in Christian beliefs, that a word given should be a word kept, his love of sportsmanship, sense of fair play, capacity for team work and love of justice, are manifestly imbued in the Organisation he controlled and which endeared him to the hearts of men who recognised the high qualities of his calibre.

Born in Wauseon, Ohio, on December 7, 1887 and educated at Toledo, Mr. Fred. Eager came to Australia in 1911 with his father, the late Edward G. Eager, who founded the Company at 297 Adelaide Street, Brisbane in that year when motor cars were few in Queensland.

At that time, Mr. Fred. Eager was Factory representative of the Willys-Overland Company for Australasia and the Orient and the franchise was abandoned in 1930 in favour of the Distributorship for General Motors-Holden’s vehicles in Queensland and the Northern Rivers of New South Wales. This photograph of Frederic Zina Eager accompanied He had been Chairman of Directors of the Company since his obituary in 1949. (H Noel Maitland Studios) his father’s death over thirty years ago. During the intervening years, the affiliated Companies of Eagers Retail Pty. Ltd., Motors Pty. Ltd., Eagers Service Pty. Ltd., Eagers Used Cars Pty. Ltd. and Brisbane Automotive Service Company (BASCO) were established with branches at Toowoomba, Mackay and Townsville. He was also Chairman of Directors of United Motors Ltd. of Adelaide. 138 A DRIVING FORCE

In the pioneer days of the Motor Industry, Mr. Fred Eager Mr. Eager is survived by one son, Edward, who is married travelled extensively over undeveloped roads in all weathers to and living in New York, and his Mother, Mrs. Dora Eager various country centres and contributed largely to popularising of Toledo (Ohio). motor cars in Queensland. A great pioneer and leader in Brisbane’s motoring world - He favoured the spectacular thrill of, and was prominently Frederic Zina Eager - philanthropical in thought and action; associated with hill climbs and overland speed trials, rather regarded in all grades of society as one of Nature’s very fine than those of reliability in which nevertheless he always gentlemen, has passed on - displayed keen interest. His Brisbane-Toowoomba record in 1916 was 2 hrs 7 mins and Sydney-Brisbane record in “There is a destiny that makes us brothers; 1918 was 19 hrs 38 mins which would be difficult to none goes his way alone”. maintain even on today’s first class roads. The Bulletin magazine also recorded his death: During his younger days he allied this fondness for speed In Brisbane, at 61, Frederick [sic] Eager, chairman of directors with aviation, in which he was interested all his life. He volunteered for active service with the Australian Flying of one of the State’s oldest and biggest motor-firms. Born in Corps during the First World War but his eyesight did not Ohio (U.S.A.), but an Australian subject for many years, he first conform to regulation standards. came to Queensland as Willys-Overland representative, then joined his father’s firm when it was established in Brisbane in Lesser known as a book enthusiast, Mr. Eager was a student 1912. Rejected for World War I service through poor eyesight, of Australian history as well as devoting himself to collecting he went on to establish motoring records between Brisbane and literature on all phases of sea life, gaining for himself the Toowoomba and Sydney and Brisbane. A big-game fisherman in reputation of being one of the best known and keenest yachtsmen his spare time, he held the Queensland shark record with a 1941 on the Queensland coast, and was renowned as an admirable host. white-shark catch scaling 1324lb. Although his favourite recreations were yachting and big game The Courier-Mail recorded: ‘Motor Pioneer F.Z. Eager dies’ and fishing, he was actively interested in breeding Jersey herds. described him as a pioneer and leader in Brisbane’s motoring world, His skill as a big game fisherman and yachtsman was undisputed. prominent in the city’s commercial life, and a naturalised American. He held the Queensland shark record with a 1941 catch of a white shark weighing 1324 lbs. Company records for November 1949 state that at a meeting chaired by George Green (acting), W.A. Green and L.H. Green Among his fleet of water-craft was the luxury yacht “Tangalooma” (Directors and the latter also Secretary): which was commandeered by the Navy in the last war and has since been bought by Hayles’ Cruises and based at Townsville It was resolved that George Ernest Green be elected Chairman for tourist purposes. of Directors pursuant to Article 128 of the Company’s Articles of Association in succession to the late Frederick [sic] Zina Eager Mr. Fred Eager was also a prominent member of the Brisbane whose death occurred on the 16th November 1949. Club, the Royal Queensland Yacht Club, the Royal Queensland Golf Club, Tattersall’s, and the Queensland Turf Club. George Green was made the representative of the Trustees in the very On July 6, 1922 he married Miss Audrey Worth, a daughter of considerable Estate of F.Z. Eager. Chief beneficiaries were his only Mrs. L. Maconiche of Melbourne. Mrs. Eager became a well- son, Edward McMaken Eager, and Miss Miriam Emily Wippell, known and charming hostess at social functions and also at her his long term friend, who retained use of his freehold properties Brisbane home “Craigston” and her seaside home at Mooloolabah, including his flat at Craigston and the houses at Mooloolaba, and the 60 miles on the coastline, North of Brisbane. use of his cars for her lifetime. chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 139

Children’s books written by Fred Eager’s son, Edward McMaken Eager were given by his widow Jane Eager when George Green Jnr and his family visited her at her home in Martha’s Vineyard in 1985. (Green family archive) 140 A DRIVING FORCE

Fred Eager’s son Edward McMaken Eager, born in Toledo, Ohio on 20 June 1911, was not to follow in the career path of his father and grandfather. He attended Harvard University, but

Frank Martin, who it is recorded in the Dictionary of Literary Biography published in had joined Eagers in Michigan in 1978, that a play he had written as an undergraduate 1921, was appointed proved so successful that he decided not to take a degree but to Manager in 1949 following the death pursue a writing career. Subsequently he moved to New York of Fred Eager. City and in 1938 he married a schoolmate, Jane Eberly. They Photographed in had one son, Frederick George Alfred (Fritz) Eager (1942-70) 1964 when he was Sales Manager. who graduated from Harvard, and it was to him that Edward Eager dedicated his ﬁrst work for children, a book of verse. He then wrote two stories centred around animal characters, followed by a series of seven novels about magic in the lives of ordinary children. Edward Eager died of lung cancer on 23 October 1964. As well as a family notice in the New York Times which asked that instead of ﬂowers being sent to his wife and son that contributions be sent to the New Canaan library, Connecticut, another notice was placed in that paper:

EAGER - We record with deep sorrow the death of our beloved member and colleague, Edward Eager, in New Canaan, Conn., on Oct.23, 1964. Stanley Adams, President. American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.

Edward McMaken Eager, Wilfred Alexander (Bill) Green moved back to Queensland grandson and namesake of towards the end of 1949: the founder, died in 1964 in the United States. His son, W.A. GREEN REJOINS EAGERS. Mr. Bill Green who for almost Fritz Eager, died in 1970, 20 years has been managing Director of United Motors Limited, the last of the line. Adelaide, has renewed his association with E.G. Eager & Son Pty. Ltd.

Mr. Green played a very prominent part in the motoring world in Adelaide, being for a time President of the State Chamber of Automotive Industries and for two years he represented the State Chamber on the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 141

He was for some time a committee-man of the Royal Automobile Association of South Australia where his administrative ability was brought to good account.

The “Road Ahead” feels sure that the Motor Industry as a whole in Queensland will benefit by the return to Queensland of Bill Green. (The Road Ahead, December 1949)

Lawrence Green in November 1949 advised the Board of his intention to resign to take effect at the end of the ﬁnancial year, 30 April 1950. He took up a franchise for the Hartnett Motor Company, then producing the Hartnett car, smaller than the Holden but also made in Australia:

Hartnett Car Distributors Appointed. Mr L H Green has resigned as an executive and director of E G Eager and Son Pty Ltd after many years with that company, who are Queensland distributors for General Motors-Holden Ltd, and takes up the franchise for the Hartnett Motor Co Ltd for Queensland and the Northern Rivers. To operate the franchise, Mr Green has formed L H Green Pty Ltd, who will act as distributors to handle assembly, sales and service of the Hartnett car. Mr Green has had 25 years’ experience in the Queensland motor trade and has long been associated with the Brisbane Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Automotive Industries of Queensland, of which he was president for two terms. (Telegraph, 4.2.1950)

John Edgar (Ted) Trevaskes who had joined the Company in 1928 was appointed Company Secretary to replace Lawrence Green, and was appointed Public Ofﬁcer of the Company in the former Secretary’s place. In August 1950 with the departure of George Green on an overseas trip, he was appointed an alternate Director. He died towards the end of 1957 and was replaced as Secretary and Public Ofﬁcer by Noel Heywood. Robert Chrystal, who had been with Eagers since 1929, was appointed an additional Director and General Sales Manager of the Company in 1950.

Executive ofﬁcers of Eagers and each one’s length of service, listed on the menu at a dinner held for George Green before an extensive overseas trip in 1950. 142 A DRIVING FORCE

In December 1951 the ﬁrst gold watches for long service were Clowes, E.J. 27 years, 1mth presented. A minute dated 18 December 1951 records the Stevens, H.C. 27 years, 1mth recipients and length of service: Drapes, L.R. 26 years, 9mths Webb, W.G. 38 years, 11mths Corley, H. 26 years, 6mths Vickers, R.C. 37 years, 10mths Sherlock, Miss E. 26 years, 2mths Mullett, H. 37 years Bell, J.J. 26 years, 2mths Fredricks, C.H. 31 years Hutchinson, F. 26 years Hurst, J.E.S. 30 years, 3mths Moar, A.J. 26 years Wiley, A.L. 29 years, 1mth McManus, A. 26 years William Davis 29 years, 1mth Greasley, A.J. 28 years, 7mths (Hereafter 25 years + service) Walshe, J.V. 28 years, 4mths Blackman, C.A. Lewis, L.D. 28 years, 2mths Keogh, J.R. Tomkinson, H.L. 28 years, 2mths Lang, R.S. Cichowski, Miss G.S. 28 years Thompson, E.J. Mulligan, W.J. 27 years, 10mths Morris, J.A. Ganly, T. 27 years, 7mths Martin, F. Blackman, F.A. 27 years, 2mths Wendt, Miss M.I. Courtenay, M.J. Grimmer, R.H.

Christmas acknowledgement from George Green. Towards the end of 1951 and after successful negotiations with (Green family archive) the Railway Department, Eagers paid a deposit to erect a railway siding to expedite the distribution of new vehicles throughout Queensland. Land adjoining the railway line had been leased from the Newstead Wharves and Stevedoring Company. With the siding complete, new vehicle stocks could be driven right onto a newly-constructed platform and from there the ﬁrst were loaded on 25 August 1952. John Kerr, in his Notes on Queensland Railways, describes the line in 1952 as a dead end siding, 170 ft clear, with points facing Newstead Goods Yard, provided off Newstead Wharves and Stevedoring Company Siding. The spur ran from near the Teneriffe wool stores across to Evelyn Street. A house property adjoining the new vehicle chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 143

delivery building was purchased to be used for the parking of motor vehicles. Some with long memories recall that one trainload of vehicles was derailed, but well after it had left Eagers.

George Green had visited Townsville and Mackay in February, 1953 and one who beneﬁted from this trip was Raymund Peter Godwin, son of Richard Godwin from the Townsville branch: the Company resolved to assist him to become established in the medical profession by guaranteeing a payment to the bank.

Many staff remember various boating activities during such trips, and it is unsurprising that when the motor launch Kiama II was for sale that Eagers decided to purchase her. She was to be used ‘in regard to Overseas and Southern representatives of G. M. Holdens, and for country Branch Managers and Dealers,’ as it was recorded that this was a most successful way of meeting and entertaining and developing goodwill in the pre-war years.

Kiama II became an Eagers institution. With her wheel in the capable hands of skipper George Green, visitors were taken on ﬁshing trips to Moreton Bay and wined and dined lavishly. Longer forays were made up to the Great Barrier Reef as the northern outposts of the ﬁrm were visited, and clients and southern staff were entertained, and business done.

In August 1953 further land was acquired near the new vehicle building and plans and speciﬁcations to provide a suitable showroom fronting Breakfast Creek Road were being made. In September the Marberete Company Pty Ltd was appointed to erect extensions to the new vehicle building in Austin Street. By November that year the extension to the main building to accommodate the Parts Department had been completed.

An indication of the contribution to the management of Eagers given by brothers George and Bill Green is apparent in the Company records for 1954. In April that year, ‘The secretary George Green at the microphone at a Vauxhall-Bedford Convention in reported that Mr G. E. Green’s appointment as General Manager Townsville in 1952 with, from left to right: Hugh Corley, Bert Millengen, Harry Cavanaugh, Denzil Cowen, and Lance Lewis in foreground. had not been formally minuted although he had been acting as General Manager since 1924.’ It was resolved immediately to conﬁrm his appointment as General Manager. Similarly it was shown that W.A. Green had been acting informally as Assistant General Manager since 1949, and the meeting took the opportunity to conﬁrm his appointment as well. 144 A DRIVING FORCE

Holden’s 100,000th vehicle on the Story Bridge in 1953, a good advertising opportunity for Eagers.

From left to right: John Lingham, Bill Green, Harry Cavanaugh, George Green, Hugh Corley, and Dan Creedon. (Camera Craft)

The Australian Vehicle Co Limited (AVCO), established at Woolloongabba in 1954.

A night preview of the F.C. model Holden at AVCO. ‘Let’s keep them sold on Holden’. Bill Green is holding the sign. (Camera Craft) chapter four – DYNASTIC CHANGE 145

In 1954 came the establishment of a further subsidiary Company, at Woolloongabba, near the Brisbane Cricket Ground, known as the Australian Vehicle Company Limited, or ‘AVCO’, for the distribution and servicing of Holden vehicles. In December of Hugh Corley, who that year, land at Main Street, Kangaroo Point was bought as a returned to Brisbane convenient site for a service station, it being midway between from Mackay in 1955 to take up the position of Newstead workshops and AVCO. General Sales Manager. (Corley family archive) The mid-ﬁfties saw even more property purchased by the Company as it expanded its services. In the time-honoured way more Newstead cottages made way for business premises, often sold for removal. Sometimes land in other suburbs, such as in Windsor or Spring Hill, was bought by the Company to exchange with owners whose existing land they sought. Land was bought at Nundah, at the corner of Sandgate Road and Wood Street, for a Holden sales and service centre in that district, and again further adjoining properties were acquired there as they became available, sometimes to build on, sometimes to receive relocated dwellings. A further modern Showroom and Ofﬁce building was completed in the Valley for Eagers Retail Pty. Ltd. to supplement their existing City Showroom.

At the Annual General Meeting in 1955 a minute’s silence was kept as a mark of respect for Eagers’ late Director, Robert Chrystal, who had died on 17 May 1955. There was deep regret for the loss of a valued member of staff, who had been with the company for 26 years. In October it was recorded: ‘The Board places on record its recognition of the value of the services of the late Mr Chrystal which contributed in a substantial manner to the success of the company’s business operations.’

A further loss at the end of the same year was the retirement of Please accept my personal congratulations on the occasion of Miss Grace Cichowski who had held the position of Conﬁdential your company becoming the first customer ever to purchase Shorthand-Typist to the Managing Director for the past 32 years. one million pounds worth of parts and accessories from NASCO in one calendar year stop This is a tremendous A fine end to the year was an urgent telegram sent to achievement and I would like you to extend sincere thanks to George Green in December 1955 from the Managing all members of your parts department staff and wish them a Director of GMH, Earl Daum: merry Christmas on my behalf....Earl Daum. 146 A DRIVING FORCE

In June 1956 the old brewery building of Samuel Allen and Sons By October 1956 George Green had decided to shed some of his in Flinders Street, Townsville was purchased, a landmark famous responsibilities for the more detailed management of the companies as the original home of Lion beer. Land to the rear of the building, of the Eager Group. He said however that as Chairman of Directors facing Sturt Street, was purchased later to allow for expansion. he would still have a very personal interest in the companies. Tribute was paid by the other members to his extensive and detailed That year, with a shortage of motor vehicles from distributors, knowledge of the companies’ affairs and mention was made of the it was decided that the Assistant Managing Director, Bill Green, loss to the companies if they were to lose his services completely. would be sent overseas to the United States of America, Canada, It was suggested that he should give some thought to preserving Great Britain and the Continent to investigate the methods of to the companies the benefit of his experience by making available distribution, repair and service of motor vehicles and to familiarise his services in regard to policy decisions even though not detailed himself with the latest developments. management. A decision was made that as Chairman of Directors he would be able to advise the companies on policy matters. He travelled with his wife and two children, sending various interim reports and notes to the Company. Senior General In a mutual agreement between Eagers and GMH, it had been decided that Eagers would cease to operate as sole wholesale Motors officials had suggested that he should be accompanied distributors of General Motors vehicles in Queensland and the by his family to further the personal relationships that had been Northern Rivers of New South Wales, as that function would be developed with visiting United States General Motors officials by taken up by GMH itself towards the middle of 1957. The retail George Green. On his return in the latter part of 1957 it was agreed companies were to continue to operate as in previous years and in that this suggestion had been well justified. He had been able to Townsville they would handle retail distribution of GMH vehicles show appreciation for favours extended to him by companies in and replacement parts and accessories and in providing service to America, United Kingdom and the Continent. They had made owners of GMH vehicles. The formation of the public company facilities available for the inspection of plants, distribution centres Eagers Holdings Limited saw a new direction, largely in the pursuit and general trade practices and these were thoroughly inspected as of new franchises to take the place of the exclusive deal with General well as other General Motors establishments. Motors that had stood Eagers in good stead for so long.

The brewery in Flinders Street, Townsville, bought by Eagers in June 1956. Land at the rear of the building made it suitable for expansion.

The ﬁne display of NASCO George Green farewells his brother Bill Green, (National Automotive Service Company) ‘Passenger for USA...UK...Europe’. products at Eagers. (Green family archive) chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 147

chapter ﬁve

A PUBLIC COMPANY (1957–1972) Establishment of the Public Company. Further expansion. Golden Anniversary. 148 A DRIVING FORCE

The Board of the new public company, Eagers Holdings Limited in 1957. Chairman George Green with (at left) his brother Bill Green and (right) Hugh Corley. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 149

Eagers Holdings. Eagers’ motor distributing and servicing The motor vehicle franchises were to be held under terms group in Queensland is being converted into a public contained in agreements for each Company for each separate area. Ecompany. A large parcel of 10/- shares in Eagers Holdings Ltd. These agreements were to be between the retail companies and will be placed at par by a Brisbane stockbroker. The company GMH and to come into operation when E.G. Eager & Son Pty will then apply for Stock Exchange listing. Paid-up capital will Ltd relinquished the wholesale franchise. be over £1 million in 10/- shares. Eagers Retail Pty Ltd was to handle distribution of Holden cars The holding company has been formed to take over the Eagers and commercial units and Chevrolet trucks at Toowoomba, group of General Motors-Holden’s distributing and servicing Mackay and Townsville in addition to being the main Brisbane companies in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Townsville, and Mackay.’ Metropolitan Distributors for Holden cars and commercial units (Financial Review, 16 May 1957) and Chevrolet cars and trucks.

EAGERS HOLDINGS LTD The retail companies of the Eager organisation were formed into a public company, to be known as Eagers Holdings Limited on 17 April 1957. It purchased all shares in Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, Motors Pty Ltd, Australian Vehicle Co Ltd, and indirectly in the subsidiaries Eagers Service Pty Ltd and Eagers Used Cars Pty Ltd, the Companies engaged in the retail distribution, servicing and maintenance of General Motors Vehicles in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Mackay and Townsville.

E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd and General Motors-Holden’s Ltd made a mutual agreement that E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd would cease to operate as the sole wholesale distributor for GMH Vehicles and that that function would be taken up by GMH. The shares in E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd were not purchased by the holding company, but the business properties, plant, equipment and stocks previously owned by them were sold to the retail companies actually using them, at values determined by Isles Love & Co Pty Ltd (for freehold land and buildings) at cost price or under (for trading stock) and at market value or under (for plant and equipment).

It was agreed with General Motors-Holden’s Ltd that the retail companies would continue to operate as in past years in the Brisbane Metropolitan Area, Toowoomba, Mackay and Townsville. In addition to this Eagers Retail Pty Ltd was to carry on the Townsville retail distribution previously operated by E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd and The attendance book for the ﬁrst meeting of the public company, also to carry out the State wholesale distribution of replacement parts Eagers Holdings Limited held on 27 August 1957. George Green and accessories, previously handled by E.G. Eager & Son Pty. Ltd. heads the list followed by Hugh Corley and Bill Green. 150 A DRIVING FORCE

Motors Pty Ltd was to be responsible for the distribution of Vauxhall and Pontiac cars, Vauxhall commercial units and Bedford trucks in Brisbane as well as in Toowoomba, Mackay, and Townsville in which country centres they were also to handle Chevrolet cars. The Australian Vehicle Co Ltd was to be one of the Brisbane Metropolitan Holden Distributors, with separate Parts and Service Departments.

Of the sub-subsidiaries, Eagers Service Pty Ltd was to handle the service and maintenance for the group while Eagers Used Cars Pty Ltd handled the trading and sale of second hand vehicles.

The retail companies would operate on the same retail basis as they had in previous years but would deal directly with GMH instead of being dealers of E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd. Due to the progressively expanding production programme of the manufacturing company it was expected that these retailing companies would need to expand their operations to handle the bigger volume.

The first Annual General Meeting of the new Company was held at Eagers Retail Pty Ltd Building, 1st floor, Kemp Place, Valley. The office-bearers were, Chairman, G.E. Green; Directors, W.A. (Bill) Green and Hugh Corley. Secretary was Noel Heywood, whose appointment had been made in October 1957 and who had started with Eagers as a 15 year old office boy in March 1946.

The net profit declared was £149,072, dividend £137,500, and net trading profit was £380,192. Authorised capital was 4 million stock units @ 10 shillings each, and paid up capital 2,200,000 ordinary stock units @ 10 shillings each.

Holden motorcade at the Brisbane Exhibition Ground. (Green family archive) It was reported that trading had been difficult, due to various factors. There had been a change of models to contend with, and the transition from a seller’s to a buyer’s market. Increased plant production had led to heavier stocks being carried, with a swing from the utility to ‘the station sedan’ or station wagon. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 151

Early Holdens and other vehicles lined up for a celebration outside ‘The House of Holden’, or Eagers Retail, at the corner of Ann and Marshall Streets, Kemp Place, Fortitude Valley, c.1958, the year that brought the total sale of Holdens to 500,000. ‘Just a ring’ to the Eagers representative would bring ‘a spanking new Holden sedan, station sedan, panel van or utility’ to your home or business. Service and spare parts facilities were at Newstead. (Green Studio) Hugh Corley celebrates the 64,000 Holdens sold in 1957. (Corley family archive) Christmas celebrations, Kemp Place, Brisbane, c.1958.

Celebrating the sale of 500,000 Holdens with a procession through Mackay Paddy Haughton as Santa Claus, Mackay, 1956. on 5 December 1958. (J.H. Willemse) A prize from Eagers for Miss Australia 1957, Helen Wood from Mackay.

A view of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, Wood Street, Mackay in the early 1950s, Crowds at the new showrooms of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, at the corner of Victoria showing the ﬂashing neon Holden - Eagers sign. and Nelson Streets, Mackay, enjoy the preview of a new Holden Utility in 1957. 154 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Retail ﬂoat for the Mackay Tourist Festival Procession, 15 April 1961. Left to right: M. Daley, Miss B. Anderson, Miss J. Matthews, and J. Whelan.

Mackay Centenary and Tourist Festival Procession, 9 April 1962. Margaret Waters and Ron Farrelly with the ‘new’; Margaret Craig and Bob Hodda with the ‘old’. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 155

An eye-catching design for the Eagers ﬂoat in the 1958 Carnival of Flowers in Toowoomba.

Appealing to the family market in Mackay. c.1957. (John Willemse) Eagers celebrates Mackay’s centenary in 1962 with an advertisement in the Centenary Issue of the local Daily Mercury. 156 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, Toowoomba, c.1961. (Norman Miller photograph) A new showroom was opened for Eagers Retail Pty Ltd at 222-228 Margaret Street, Toowoomba in November 1957,

Thomas Edmund Green (at right) managed by Thomas Edmund (Ted) Green, brother of George, manager of Eagers Retail, Toowoomba, Bill and Lawrence Green. The occasion was marked by brother of George, Bill and Lawrence extensive advertisements, the handiwork of Marlay Hadgraft, Green, receives a cheque for £110 which proclaimed the centre to be the distributors for Holden in towards staging the Australasian Band Championships in Toowoomba from Toowoomba and District, with ten associated dealerships. The R.J. Dunn (manager of the Toowoomba 1964-65 financial year saw changes to the Toowoomba branch Chronicle) at left, and D.E. Gold in Margaret Street, with the demolition of the old buildings and (centre) manager of Radio Station 4GR. construction of new premises. (Toowoomba Chronicle, 13 January 1960. SLQ 130577) chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 157

Motors Pty Ltd in a prominent position where Ann and Wickham Streets converge, at the entrance to Fortitude Valley.

Eagers Toowoomba, c.1957. Turntable display for the Vauxhall Cresta Holden promotion in Queen Street, then Brisbane’s at Motors Pty Ltd, Fortitude Valley. main thoroughfare, in 1958. 158 A DRIVING FORCE

Nundah Motors opened in Sandgate Road in May 1958. (Camera Craft) chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 159

Eagers scores Australian cricketer, Wally Grout, at one stage their employee, Motor show at the new and revolutionary Allan & Stark Drive-in Shopping Centre at to take part in the Nundah Motors celebrations, a year after his Test debut. Chermside, 2-7 June 1958. Note the advertisements for Nundah Motors. (Green Studio)

Nundah to Cloncurry in 1958. A helping hand to the Royal Flying Doctor Service The ﬁrst Christmas for Nundah Motors, 1958. from General Motors Holden. 160 A DRIVING FORCE

A well-known northside bus line helps to put more cars on the road in 1958.

Eagers, the name synonymous with Holden. An advertising tram turns into the Light Street tram depot, just near the General Motors Holden building in Wickham Street.

A southside busline advertises AVCO at Woolloongabba.

Showing off the new Chevrolet. H.W. Gage and Queensland’s Deputy Premier Kenneth Morris introduce the 900,000th Holden in 1962. The photograph is overprinted with ‘Eagers Holden’. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 161

In 1958, as a mark of its continuing progress, the Company established Nundah Motors Pty Ltd on the northside of Brisbane as a composite unit to handle the distribution of Holden vehicles and to provide the necessary allied services.

Motors Pty Ltd was transferred to renovated premises at the corner of Wickham and Ann Streets, to further develop the Vauxhall, Pontiac and Bedford franchise.

The composition of the Board remained unchanged until 1967. Bill Green acted as Chairman when necessary, such as in the absence of George Green in 1961, investigating vehicle distribution and service methods overseas. It was a competitive market, particularly in the used car ﬁeld, and sales tax levied at 30 per cent continued to be a problem. Pat Gannon, who had been Manager of Eagers (Southside), Brisbane, went to Townsville to replace Denzil Cowen, and a property was purchased at Garbutt for vehicle storage. A farewell present for George Green (left) from Hugh Corley, prior to an overseas trip to England and America. Bill Green looks on, about to take over as Acting Chairman. Note the efﬁgy of the Trading was generally depressed in 1961, vehicle sales having been ‘King Boss’ at left, with a globe for his head. April, 1960. affected by an increased sales tax and the credit squeeze, the latter responsible for a ‘considerable write-off in used car values’. The drought conditions adversely affected sales, an ongoing problem in Queensland’s rural based economy, and although a reduction in sales tax in 1962 helped the situation, the market did not recover.

An advertisement for the Eagers Show Display in Brisbane in 1961: ‘Just inside the Main Exhibition Gates’. The happy customer symbol soon became a familiar icon. (The Road Ahead, August 1961)

It was the Corleys’ turn to go overseas, in April 1961, to the United States including Chicago and Detroit, then by the Queen Mary to the United Kingdom, then Europe and home ﬁve months later. (Corley family archive) EAGERS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY 1913 1963

‘This is the year ﬁve decades past we celebrate with you. Eager then, and Eager still to serve you well and true. We grew and prospered mightily but do not ask us why Just ask our hosts of customers And we know that you’ll agree To let us solve your problems too in 1963.’ (Anonymous) chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 163

‘Having completed ﬁfty years in the Motor Industry our organisation looks forward A Golden Anniversary page in the Courier Mail on 1 February 1963 illustrated all the to many more anniversaries and a continuation of happy trading relations with you.’ companies operating under Eagers Holdings Limited, including those in Toowoomba, The distinctive 50th anniversary symbol was used on all advertisements that year, Mackay and Townsville. on all letterheads at Head Ofﬁce and in the regions, and on ‘strut cards’ in the show rooms and on all the service counters. Key ring tags with the symbol were attached to the keys of every Holden sedan sold in 1963. 164 A DRIVING FORCE

‘In the elapsed ﬁfty years our Spare Parts and Accessories Division has grown from a staff of one man (the late Mr Robert Cyril Vickers) to a present day total of approximately 300 personnel in Queensland under the control of Mr. Robert Collier.’ (Eager News, February 1963)

Length of service was admired and among the longest-serving in 1963 were: the Divisional Manager, based at Newstead, Bob Collier with 33 years; George Morris in Townsville, 34 years; Alan Ebrington, BASCO, 29 years; Ernie Paulsen, Nundah, 28 years; Ron Cox, Toowoomba, 25 years; Graham Trevaskes, Woolloongabba, 21 years; and Stafford Croft, Mackay, 15 years.

Eagers’ Golden Anniversary was celebrated in 1963, the original company, E.G. Eager & Son Limited having been registered as a Limited Liability Company on 7 January 1913. Pursuing their policy of continued expansion they had grown into an organisation employing more than 900 staff working in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Mackay and Townsville. In the New Year’s Honours List in 1963, headlines in the Courier Mail proclaimed:

NEW KNIGHT FOR Q’LAND. Former Royal National Association president and leading Queensland business man George Edward [sic] Green is the only Queenslander among

A knighthood in 1963 for George Green at Government House, Brisbane, during the royal visit, 11 Australians to receive knighthoods in the New Years honours presented by H.M. The Queen. This was the year Eagers celebrated its Golden Anniversary. list released today. Sir George Green, a company director, of Hamilton, is created a knight bachelor. His award was made in the State list. The honour is in recognition of his charitable and philanthropic works.

The paper went on to say:

Queensland’s new knight, Sir George Green, led Queensland’s Royal National Association for more than five years. When he Second from left is Joe Kenny, resigned as R.N.A. president in April, 1961, he had been an being congratulated on R.N.A. councillor for 15 years and president for five-and-a-half winning a Holden in Eagers Golden Anniversary year years. Born and educated in Maryborough, Sir George is by: at far left, Ron Swartz, married with three children. He has had many years experience Eagers Retail, Brisbane; in secondary and primary industry, as chairman and managing Hugh Cornish, popular director of a car firm and owner of a small cattle fattening newsreader for QTQ 9 property in the Boonah district. (forerunner to Channel 9); and Thea Dillon, another QTQ 9 personality. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 165

His spare-time interests have included deep-sea fishing and golf. An additional finance company, Eagers Finance Pty Ltd, was For nine years, until 1946, he was Royal Queensland Golf Club started on 1 July 1963, an avenue followed earlier by F.Z. Eager president. Chairman of Eagers Holdings Ltd., Sir George is noted in his examination of the methods used by finance companies in for his philanthropic work. His wartime services as chairman and the United States. In general, sales of new and used cars increased. controller of the Australian Army Canteen Service, Northern Trading in 1963 saw higher sales of new vehicles, but ‘not the Command, and on numerous defence boards and committees relative clearance of used vehicles’. were of the highest value to his country. A new subsidiary company was established at Coronation Drive, It was also recorded that Lady Green was a gracious hostess at Toowong, in what had been a residential area. Toowong Motors Pty Royal National Association gatherings while her husband was in Ltd and Eagers Parts & Equipment Pty Ltd both started trading on office, one notable occasion being the 1958 visit to the Exhibition 1 May 1964. The seventh Annual General Meeting, in 1964, was Grounds by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. held at Toowong Motors.

George Green Snr, keen golfer and President of Royal George Green Jnr, a keen golfer like his father, won the Royal Queensland Golf Club for nine years until 1946. Queensland Golf Club Championship ﬁve times between (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111578) 1964 and 1972. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 111579) 166 A DRIVING FORCE

Pat Gannon (at left) manager at Townsville, with Darcy Toowong Motors, seen here at about the time it opened in Walters (Manager Swifts, Australia), and at right Eagers 1964, a prominent landmark along Brisbane’s Coronation sales representative Pat Mahoney. (Arch Fraley) Drive, major thoroughfare to the western suburbs.

Staff Christmas party, 1963. (D’Arcy Pforr Studio) Courier-Mail, 15 February 1972. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 167

In the next ﬁnancial year, 1965, there was a downturn in proﬁts, partly caused by an increase in income tax, strikes, continuing drought and the costs of building at Townsville, Mackay and Brisbane. That year in April, Sir George Green’s son, George Green Jnr, an electrical engineer and a particularly talented sportsman, joined the staff of Eagers, after a year working with the Southern Electric Authority of Queensland. Courteous and a man of great integrity, he would rise to the top.

In Townsville in 1966, Eagers Parts and Equipment moved from its old premises in Flinders Street to a new and impressive building in Sturt Street on land acquired years earlier for this purpose. The Service Division remained in Palmer Street. In August 1966 it was reported that all companies except Eagers Used Cars Pty Ltd had made a proﬁt. There had been difﬁcult trading in the latter six months caused by competitive trading conditions and problems arising from over-production in the industry.

In Townsville Keith Bowerman from Mackay took up his appointment as branch manager in June 1967. During his time there he would become chairman of the North Queensland Dealer Group, the Townsville Branch of the Australian Automobile Dealer Association, the Townsville Productivity Group, and the president of the Lions Club.

Eagers soon commenced further building in Townsville. This time it was a new Service Division, beside the Spare Parts building, spacious, and complete with Quick Service Pits and every facility Strategic position for an Eagers display at Petrie Bight in the Brisbane CBD. needed for the repair and maintenance of modern quality cars. This Note Austral Motors at far right, just below All Hallows School. heralded the closure of the Palmer Street premises which had been the servicing centre for Eagers for 41 years.

Noel Heywood was appointed to the Board while retaining his position as Secretary. The 1967 Annual Report noted the downturn in vehicle sales, and forecast: ‘Within the motor vehicle industry itself, the immediate future appears to hold little promise of substantial improvement’. On 8 February that year Premier Properties Pty Ltd started trading at 95 Breakfast Creek Road with a view to providing for ‘future investment beneﬁts not necessarily related to the motor industry’. Now customers had the options of vehicle acquisition through hire purchase, personal loan and by leasing. Associate Directors were appointed in the subsidiary companies, S.R. (Ron) Swartz and George Green to Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, and R.G. (Bob) Collier to Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty Ltd. 168 A DRIVING FORCE

Keith Bowerman, a Bill Green had acted as Chairman of Directors during the absence well-known ﬁgure in overseas of Sir George. This position was made permanent on the motor industry 1 November 1967, following his brother’s resignation. Sir George, in Mackay and Townsville for many Chairman of the Company since its inception in 1957, maintained years before his move his connection with Eagers as a Director of the enterprise with which to Brisbane in 1979. he had been associated since the days of Edward Eager himself. Bill Green retired as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Companies of the Group on 26 April 1968, after an association of 47 years with the Eager Organisation.

On 1 May 1968 Hugh Corley was appointed Managing Director and General Manager. He had a long association with Eagers, and remembered the days when he and Bill Green promoted Whippet cars in the 1920s. The Courier Mail the following day reported:

Eagers posts. Mr. H. Corley has been appointed managing director and general manager of Eagers Holdings Ltd. and its subsidiaries following the retirement of Mr. W.A. Green, who remains chairman of directors.

Other new Eagers’ posts are: Mr. N.J. Heywood, at present director of Eagers Holdings, director of each subsidiary company; Mr. S.R. Swartz, associate director of Eagers Retail Ron Swartz, a prominent ﬁgure Pty Ltd, director of four other subsidiaries; Mr. G.R.C. Green, within Eagers until associate director of Eagers Retail, associate director of each his retirement from subsidiary company; Mr. R.S. Lang, appointed associate the Board in 1976. director of Eagers Service Pty Ltd.

Gold watch suitably inscribed on the back and presented to Noel Heywood in 1971, for 25 years service. (Heywood family archive) chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 169

An Eagers Executive Staff Dinner held on 26 April 1968 to honour Bill Green, Hugh Corley, at far right, after the presentation of watches for 25 years of retiring Manager Director. From left to right are John Clowes, Doug George, service, December 1970. The presentations were always in the boardroom, B. Neilson, Bob Collier, R. Lang, Bill Green, Sir George Green, Hugh Corley, in the lead up to Christmas. H. Fraser, Jim Yates, Ron Swartz, Keith Bowerman, Tom Garven, George Green, Danny Creedon, Noel Heywood, Pat Gannon, T. Reid, L. Bostock, J. Kingston and John Armstrong.

Eagers Executive Dinner at Lennons Hotel, Brisbane in 1969. Standing (from left to right): Neil McGregor, Wally Warne, Tom Reid, Doug George, Bruce Neilson, John Clowes, George Green, Dan Creedon, Keith Bowerman, John Armstrong, Jack Daly, Peter Easton, George Morris, Jim Yates, Bob Collier. Seated are: Tom Garven, Pat Gannon, Ron Swartz, Reg Lang, Sir George Green, Hugh Corley, Bill Green, Noel Heywood. (Camera Craft) 170 A DRIVING FORCE

ROCKHAMPTON Eagers Retail Pty Ltd’s freehold property in Adelaide Street, Brisbane, was sold, following the transfer of part of the Company’s retail Further expansion was planned, this time a branch in activities to Newstead, and G.R.C. Green was appointed a Director Rockhampton. Buildings were demolished and new premises of that Company. John Clowes was appointed an Associate Director were constructed at 160-64 Denison Street and Eagers Parts and of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd and of Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty Equipment opened on 17 February 1969. The further acquisition Ltd. He had started with Eagers as a storeman in 1946, and had of property paved the way for the development that was expected since held various positions, including Manager of the Toowoomba there. The Spare Parts Warehouse provided the district with a branch in 1964. The gold cover on the 1970 Eagers Holdings Ltd’s comprehensive range of automotive parts, and also sundry items Annual Report was perhaps an indication of the success of the such as Cougar camping equipment and car care items. The Company during the past ﬁve years. Eagers Wholesale Pty Ltd was manager of the Parts Department at Mackay, Stafford Croft was incorporated on 21 August 1970 to act as a wholesale purchasing appointed Rockhampton branch manager. company for the Subsidiaries engaged in new vehicle retailing.

Developments in Townsville included the opening of a new Upon Hugh Corley’s retirement from the Company in April 1971 service building facing Sturt Street in October 1969 for Eagers after a 48 year association with Eagers, Noel Heywood became Retail Pty Ltd. This replaced the Palmer Street workshop, and was Managing Director, General Manager and Chief Executive of conveniently located next to their existing spare parts building. Eagers Holdings Ltd and of each of its Associated Companies. Ron Mayes was the Service Manager, and four quick service bays provided clients with efficient service. The staff training The roles of Secretary and Public Officer were now assumed by area, staff amenities and a new showroom had also been skilfully John Armstrong, who had started his career with Eagers in 1952, designed. By March 1969 United Equipment Pty Ltd started at at the age of 21, as an accountant at Head Office. Subsequently Malcomson Street Mackay, to handle sales and service of tractors, he went to the Toowoomba branch where he later became Sales implements and agricultural equipment. Supervisor, before going on to manage Toowong Motors.

Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty Ltd, Rockhampton, opened on Rockhampton Mayor Rex Pilbeam opens the local Eagers Parts and Monday, 17 February 1969, at 160-164 Denison Street, to Equipment building on 17 February 1969 with (from left to right) service dealers in the Central districts of Queensland. branch manager Stafford Croft, Eagers Holdings director Hugh Corley, and Eagers general manager Robert Collier. chapter five – A PUBLIC COMPANY 171

Eagers rented the showroom area in the former Canada Cycle & Motor Company premises at the corner of Creek & Adelaide Streets. A convenient turntable made parking easy.

Courier-Mail, 15 February 1972.

The Haﬂinger at the Brisbane Motor Show From left to right are Ron Swartz, George Green Jnr, Hugh Corley, Bill Green, Sir George Green, in 1969. This type of vehicle was used by Noel Heywood, Bob Collier, John Clowes and John Armstrong, celebrating in the boardroom at Queensland State Centre for beach control. Newstead in September 1972. Made in Austria, it proved unsuitable for dusty, or sandy, Australian conditions. 172 A DRIVING FORCE

In December 1971 Cyclone Althea swept across much of Queensland, and its effects were widely felt in Townsville on Christmas Eve, a day christened Black Friday. Keith Bowerman, the Manager at the time, remembers being telephoned to be told their former brewery building had been blown down, which fortunately proved an exaggeration. The tower and the neon sign on the Eagers Retail building in Flinders Street had crashed down on to six vehicles in the used car sale yard, and every Eagers building was found to have been damaged. (Arch Fraley Photographics) chapter six

SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES (1973–1991) Diamond Jubilee. 1974 floods. Death of Sir George Green in 1982. AP Group takes an interest. 174 A DRIVING FORCE

DIAMOND JUBILEE 1913-1973 Trading locations and branches in the Diamond Jubilee Year were: DEagers’ Diamond Jubilee Year was celebrated in 1973, seen by the Eagers Finance Pty. Ltd. Motor Vehicle Company as the culmination of 60 years of specialisation in the sales Newstead Finance, Leasing and maintenance of new and used cars and trucks. They were proud Eagers Parts & GMH Parts, to say: ‘The Group continues to follow a progressive building and Equipment Pty. Ltd. Nasco Accessories development program to ensure that the most modern amenities are Newstead, Rockhampton, available to best serve the motoring public now and in the future.’ Townsville

A commemorative logo was designed, and a 10 per cent Diamond Eagers Retail Pty. Ltd. Holden, Torana, Jubilee Bonus Dividend was declared. Celebrations at the Townsville Newstead, Valley, Townsville, Statesman branch included the opening of the extension to their Sturt Street Toowoomba, Mackay showroom. Advertisements in the local press announced: ‘Eagers Eagers Service Pty. Ltd. Specialised Holden Motorama. Our three showrooms now display a total of 20 Newstead GMH Service vehicles for your inspection. Flinders St. Sturt St. Knapp St. Garbutt.’ Eagers Used Cars Pty. Ltd High Quality Newstead, Woolloongabba, Used Vehicles Toowong, Nundah, Mackay, Toowoomba, Townsville

Eagers (Northside) Holden, Torana, Statesman Nundah Sales, Service and Parts

Eagers (Southside) Holden, Torana, Statesman Wooloongabba Sales, Service and Parts

Eagers (Trucks) Bedford, Isuzu, Holden Newstead

Eagers (Westside) Holden, Torana, Statesman Toowong Sales, Service and Parts

Eagers Wholesale Pty. Ltd. New Vehicle Stock Newstead

Premier Properties Pty. Ltd. Property Investment Newstead Company

United Equipment Pty. Ltd. Ford Tractor and Mackay Agricultural Equipment

The Diamond Jubilee logo featured in Letz Rent-a-Car System Car Rental Service the 1973 Annual Report. Even then the Newstead, Cairns, Eagers history was impressive. Townsville, Mackay chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 175

The 1974 floods during the long weekend in January caused huge disruption across the State and low-lying Newstead was one of the suburbs badly affected. Breakfast Creek Road was awash, and the nearby Booroodabin Bowls Club greens were under water. Yet many Eagers staff went to work as usual, among them Managing Director Noel Heywood who was recovering after a week in traction for a bad back and who directed operations from a makeshift bed on the floor of his office. Every vehicle was moved, some 300 in all, to the safety of nearby Bowen Hills. All the streets around Cloudland were packed with cars and trucks, each with its key still in the ignition as there was no time to remove and record them, but there they stayed safely until the roads were reopened.

At Eagers the water rose to the top of the steps into the Head Evelyn Street, Newstead from Breakfast Evelyn Street, Newstead, looking towards Office and the assembly area was metres under water. The service Creek Road, awash in the 1974 flood. Creswell Street from Breakfast Creek Road. pits off Evelyn Street, each capable of taking four or five trucks at a time, were all flooded, and when the water receded there were fish found swimming in them. When at last they were drained the fire brigade arrived to hose them out. It was found water had just entered the switchboard, housed at the back of the parts area, and eventually a mark was put on the wall of the service depot as a grim reminder. A large number of office records were flooded, but there were no casualties and no stock was lost.

The Townsville Daily Bulletin of 26 October 1974 enthused: ‘Eagers Retail Pty Ltd are “all up in the air” with excitement at the new six-cylinder HJ Holden sedan, which went on display for the ﬁrst time in Townsville yesterday, simultaneously with an Australia- wide release of the new vehicle. Although the wraps were taken off on the showroom ﬂoor, the Kingswood spent the day dangling on a special rig from a crane, high above Flinders St, West.’

Eagers (Crows Nest), a branch of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, commenced operations on 10 February 1975, on land purchased on either side of William Street. That year also saw the retirement of R.G. (Bob) Collier, and his resignation from the board of A gathering of Eagers branch managers in 1974 at Lennons Hotel, Brisbane. From left to right are: Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty Ltd. Ron Swartz relinquished his Herb Lamont, John Clowes; John Armstrong; Pat Gannon; Noel Heywood (Managing Director); Keith Bowerman, Townsville; Ron Swartz; and Neil McGregor, Mackay. membership of the Board on his retirement from the Company on 31 December 1976. 176 A DRIVING FORCE

The daring precision drivers pass Machinery Hill as they practise for another In-line formation. crowd-thrilling display at the Brisbane Ekka in the 1970s. The four Monaros advertise Toowong Motors, Nundah Motors, Eagers and AVCO. ‘Keep those arms and legs behind the fence, boys and girls.’

Last practice for the two wheel driving act before the ﬁrst big night. Close calls and maximum noise. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 177

Signiﬁcant expansion took place at Nundah Motors, as formerly tenanted property was purchased and display areas for new and used vehicles were completed. Holden was soon to release the Gemini, its baby car manufactured in Japan and assembled in Australia, enabling Holden to compete against the Japanese small car market.

From 1976 an annual Report to Employees was issued, highlighting matters which inﬂuenced the Company, and illustrating aspects of sales and income distribution.

In Brisbane, following the appointment of an additional General Motors Holden dealer in the Toowong area, Toowong Motors Pty Ltd, Eagers (Westside), ceased operations on 31 May 1977, and certain parts of its business were relocated to Newstead and Woolloongabba. Motors Pty Ltd, trading as Eagers (Trucks) ceased operations on 31 July 1977, and the light and medium truck range was transferred to the new vehicle outlets at Newstead and Nundah. Nundah Motors, at the corner of Sandgate Road and Wood Street, 1977. In July 1978, new premises were opened in Mackay at Gordon and Wellington Streets on land purchased at the end of 1972, to take over operations formerly at Victoria and Wood Streets. Manager in those years was Neil McGregor, formerly Toowoomba accountant and later manager of that branch. Problems in the sugar industry had led to a downturn in agricultural equipment sales in the Mackay district and adversely affected the performance of United Equipment Pty Ltd.

Changes to the staff in the late 1970s included the appointment of George Green Jnr to the Board of Eagers Holdings Ltd on 1 November 1977, and John Armstrong to the Boards of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, Nundah Motors Pty Ltd, and the Board of the Australian Vehicle Co on 1 May 1978.

Australian Vehicle Company, AVCO, at the corner of Logan Road and Trafalgar Street, Woolloongabba, 1976.

The Eagers Trophy, ﬁrst awarded in 1975 to David Claxton, MVP in the Brisbane Basketball Senior A grade season. 178 A DRIVING FORCE

In November, 1978, the month that saw the introduction of the The 1980 Annual Report announced: iconic Holden Commodore, in Townsville it had been decided Sir George Green, a foundation Director of Eagers Holdings Ltd, to expand onto land bought on a corner site facing Thuringowa and of all its Subsidiary Companies, does not seek re-appointment Drive, Kirwan. In June 1979 Manager Keith Bowerman was at the coming Annual General Meeting, and retires after sixty- transferred to Brisbane to manage Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty three years as an Eagers Director. He was Chairman of the Board Ltd, and was replaced in Townsville by Bruce Neilson, previously of Eagers Holdings Limited for ten years and Chairman of the from the Toowoomba branch, and up until his new appointment, original Subsidiary Companies for eighteen years. New and Used Car Sales Manager of Eagers (Northside). In other As inaugural Chairman, Sir George, in 1957, guided the changes, John Clowes and John Armstrong were appointed to the formation of Eagers Holdings Limited, and the transfer of the Board of Eagers Holdings Limited on 3 July 1980. previously private Eager companies into the public company group. He was Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer These were difficult years for the whole motor industry, with of the Eager companies for forty years. No comment is adequate declining sales, higher wages and inflation, and greater overall to indicate the valuable strength and direction given to the costs. The phasing out of popular vehicles such as the Holden Companies by Sir George during this time. The Board records Kingswood aggravated an already difficult situation. Eagers the admiration and gratitude of his fellow Directors, and of all Holdings Limited’s dividend dropped in 1980 as profits tumbled. Company Executives and Staff.

Managers’ Conference, Newstead, 3 December 1981. Seated are (from left to right): Dan Creedon, John Armstrong, Noel Heywood, John Clowes, George Green, Bruce Neilson. Standing are: David Hockings, Bill Rance, Herb Lamont, Neil McGregor, Keith Bowerman, Barry Brewer, and David Boyd. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 179

Head Ofﬁce of Eagers Holdings Limited, Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead, as it was in 1977.

Board member John Clowes, who started with Eagers in 1946, was appointed to the Board in 1980 as Director of Sales. He retired from the Board in 1986.

Sir George Green (1892-1982), seated, who started with Eagers in 1917, with his brother Bill Green (1903-2003), who started in 1921. (1980 Annual Report) 180 A DRIVING FORCE

From the end of the financial year, Bill Green retired as Chairman of the Board, to continue as a Director. He was replaced as Chairman by Hugh Corley from 1 May 1981. The 1981 Annual Report recorded:

Mr. W.A. Green, who had been appointed a Foundation Director of Eagers Holdings Limited on 3rd May, 1957, and been Chairman of the Board since his initial election to that position on the 31st October, 1967, retired as Chairman from the close of the ﬁnancial year. The admiration of his fellow Directors for Mr. W.A. Green’s long and successful service as Chairman of the Board, and their appreciation of his willingness to continue as a Director, are recorded.

The Allworth Trading Company Pty Ltd was acquired on 1 July 1981, in a move away from the Company’s usual trading base. They were importers of an extensive range of hardware, gardening tools and giftware, with established markets in New South Wales and Queensland, and were to operate under the same management as an import division of Eagers Parts & Equipment Pty Ltd. This company was to add diversity to Eagers Holdings Limited’s warehousing and distribution network throughout Queensland, and to provide customers with a range of home improvement products.

Among those celebrating 25 years of Holden In the financial division, latest research from the United in Australia are the then longest-serving Eagers employee Wally Webb, second from left, and States of America prompted the introduction of the Eagers on his left, Reg Lang. Toowoomba Manager Extended Warranty to be available through all vehicle divisions T.E. Green is ﬁfth from left. Fourth from the right of the Eager Group. is Marlay Hadgraft, in charge of advertising Eagers in the days when it was all done Chairman Hugh Corley was quoted in the Courier Mail in ‘in house’. At far right is L.D. Lewis, Service December 1982 as he hit out at excessive wage claims, Manager at Newstead who retired at the end of 1957 after 34 years with Eagers. (SLQ 130583) citing escalating wages as the largest single factor in the Company’s expenses:

Our group is suffering from the general malaise which is affecting the whole of the country. In a nutshell expenses have been growing at a faster rate than gross proﬁts. Hugh Corley was appointed Chairman of Eagers Holdings The Public Company’s Silver Anniversary was celebrated in 1982, Limited on 1 May 1981. marked by a competition to win a silver Camira. Pride in the development of the Eager organisation into a company employing over 500 staff was marked by the inclusion of a short history in the 1982 Annual Report. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 181

Sir George Green, who had joined the staff of E.G. Eager & Son in 1917, died on 10 October 1982, following a brief illness.

FIRM FOUNDER DIES AT 90. The foundation chairman of motor dealer Eagers Holdings Ltd, Sir George Green, has died aged 90.

Starting with Eagers in 1916, Sir George rose to chairman, in which post he saw the present company formed in 1957. He retired from the chair ten years later and from the board only in 1980.

Sir George, knighted in 1963 for his philanthropic work, was a leader in Queensland commerce and community affairs. He leaves a widow, a son and two daughters. (Courier Mail, 12 October 1982)

Lady Green died many years later, on 8 April 1997, aged 95.

Brian T. Ball a director of Queensland Trustees Limited, who had looked after the Estate of F.Z. Eager for many years, was in 1983 appointed to the Board of Eagers Holdings Limited to represent the estate.

Bill Green retired from the Company on 30 April 1984. He had withdrawn as a Director of the subsidiary Companies the previous year. His career with the Eager organisation had started in 1921, when Fred Eager was at the helm, and he had been appointed Assistant Managing Director to his brother George Sir George Green retired Bill Green was the last survivor from Eagers in 1980 after of the infamous Mortuary Club. in 1949. He had been a foundation and Managing Director of 63 years with the company. Eagers Holdings Limited from 1957 to 1968, and Chairman He died in 1982 after a short illness, aged 90. of the Board from 1967 to 1981, proudly supported by his wife Nancy until her death a few months short of their golden wedding anniversary.

He lived on in retirement for many years, and died on 9 March 2003 at the age of 100, survived by his two daughters. Bill Green had seen the ﬂedgling ﬁrm become ‘a voice in the A service was held at Buderim, where he had lived since 1972. city’, and at his departure, the formal vote of appreciation was carried ‘with acclamation’. His death brought to an end His old Company was proud of him and his obituary in the the infamous Mortuary Club that he and a group of 11 other Annual Report recalled the highlights of his career and called prominent businessmen had started, over a game of poker, him ‘A Queensland motor industry legend’. He was ranked tenth in 1949. Each month they met for dinner and poker at The on the list of the 20 largest shareholders of A.P. Eagers. The Brisbane Club, and when a member died the others would hold Company might well give thanks for his ‘wise counsel’ and for his a dinner for him, paid for from funds invested for the purpose. contribution to the success of this leader in the motor industry. Bill Green was the youngest member and the last survivor. 182 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, Townsville, showing frontages to Flinders and Knapp Streets, 1977. Eagers Parts and Equipment, Sturt Street, Townsville, 1987. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 183

Now Eagers was being computerised with the help of an outside consultant and point of sale technology was introduced in the interests of speed and efficiency. With the decline in GMH vehicle sales, their dealerships were being rationalised, and Eagers Retail Pty Ltd was now the sole dealer in Toowoomba and Mackay. They relinquished their vehicle franchise in Townsville on 31 May 1984, the Crow’s Nest operation was sold and Allworth Trading was wound down.

John Armstrong, who had been with Eagers for 33 years, was named Executive of the Year in March 1984, at celebrations for National Secretaries’ Day. Later that year he was appointed Australian President of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators.

Further honour came to the Company when Noel Heywood was awarded the OBE for his contribution to Commerce and Community. The Courier Mail reported on 16 June 1984:

Mr Heywood, Eagers Retail Pty Ltd managing director, of Ascot, was Brisbane Chamber of Commerce president from 1980 to 1982 and Australian Chamber of Commerce treasurer from 1977 to 1979. Brian Mynott, State Manager of General Motors Holden congratulates (at right) Eagers (Newstead) and Eagers (Northside) were the recipients in Noel Heywood of Eagers Retail Pty Ltd, on their 50 years service as a Holden November 1984 of two limited edition World in Hand bronze dealer. December 1981. (Heywood archive) sculptures, awarded by General Motors-Holden’s Limited in recognition of their commitment and dedication in meeting the highest standards of Customer Satisfaction. They were the only such recipients in Queensland, and only nine of these international John Armstrong, who had awards were given in Australia. joined Eagers in 1952, was appointed to the Board of Eagers Holdings Limited in 1980. He was Assistant Managing Director from 1985 to 1990, when he was appointed to the positions of Managing Director and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, positions he held at the time of his retirement in 1991. He was a past Australian President of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. 184 A DRIVING FORCE

The tradition of a member of the Green family being appointed Chairman of Directors was consolidated in April 1985 when George Richard Charles Green, only son of Sir George and Lady Green, succeeded Hugh Corley.

Hugh Corley retired from active participation in Eagers the following October, having completed 61 years of service with them. Another departure was that of John Clowes who had been with Eagers for 39 years, having joined in 1946. Dennis Hull was appointed Company Secretary of Eagers Holdings Limited in May 1985 to succeed John Armstrong who had been appointed Assistant Managing Director.

Dennis Hull had been with Eagers for two years. An Englishman born in North Yorkshire, his family had emigrated to Rhodesia in 1956 where he qualiﬁed as a Chartered Secretary and Administrator and became a Fellow of the Institute. In 1978 he and his wife and two children moved on from what would become Zimbabwe to New Zealand, ‘to start again’, but after some years the Brisbane climate seemed closer to what they were used to and they moved again. Dennis Hull had written to the six big accounting ﬁrms and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries, Eagers Board of Directors in 1984. From left to right: George Green, Bill Green, John Clowes, John Armstrong who was on the Queensland Committee of Hugh Corley (Chairman), John Armstrong, Noel Heywood (Managing Director) and Brian Ball. Chartered Secretaries, saw his résumé, asked for an interview Hugh Corley retired in 1985 after 61 years with Eagers. and with the blessing of the Board of Eagers, Dennis Hull was appointed internal auditor. By 1985 he had travelled around the various branches, and had already assumed responsibility for some of the commercial roles.

Jane Eager remained the largest shareholder in Eagers Holdings Limited, with 734,398 shares, representing 18.47 per cent of the Company, as shown in the Annual Report for 1987. Fred Eager’s remaining beneﬁciary, Midge Wippell had lived on for nearly forty years after his death, until 9 May 1985. His daughter- George Green Jnr, an electrical engineer in-law Jane Eager at last could access the capital, and 30,000 who joined the Eager shares were donated by her in 1986 to Harvard University for an organisation in 1965, was Edward Eager Memorial Fund. The rest of her shares were sold appointed a Director in 1977 and Chairman of in October 1987. The Green family remained in touch with her Directors in 1985. until her death on 30 December 1993 in New York, aged 83. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 185

George Green (centre) is among those to receive rewards for clinical research from the Premier of Queensland Plenty of horsepower in the Eagers Cup in 1984. the Hon. Joh Bjelke Petersen, second from right, on 14 April 1987. 186 A DRIVING FORCE

Eagers Parts & Equipment Pty Ltd in Townsville moved to a since 1 November 1986, tendered his resignation. A chartered new site at Thuringowa Drive, Kirwan, in September 1985. This accountant, he had joined Coopers & Lybrand as a taxation land had been purchased in 1978, and the facility was to service partner, and was therefore required to resign from Eagers the region from Cairns to Mackay and west to Mount Isa. At Holdings Limited, a company audited by Coopers & Lybrand. Evelyn Street, Newstead a Used Car Warehouse was opened, Brian P. McCafferty, the senior partner in Morris Fletcher & painted in bright red and yellow stripes to catch the attention, Cross, and a former President of the Royal Automobile Club a breakaway from the traditional red and white colours of of Queensland, was appointed to the Board on 15 July 1988. GMH franchise outlets throughout Australia. This space could Service Departments at Newstead, Nundah, Toowoomba and hold 200 cars, and with the fall in the Australian dollar and Mackay were given an added efficiency boost when the computerised the Fringe Benefits Tax affecting the purchasing of new cars, Total Time Control System was introduced to improve technicians’ Eagers’ grip on the used car market was to be strengthened. productivity and to achieve general efficiency for the Company. The marked recession in the motor vehicle industry seemed to be Sales of new vehicles were increasing and the introduction of over at last. A new total dealership facility in Toowoomba at James the new VN Commodore proved immensely popular, as did the and Hume Streets, described as ‘spacious and architecturally Holden Nova and Apollo which were the first products of the impressive’, and said to be the largest motor dealership premises merged Holden and Toyota operations. In September 1988 Eagers’ in provincial Queensland, brought together operations previously business interests in Mackay were sold, and buildings there were carried out in buildings in Margaret, Victoria and Ruthven dispensed with. In April 1989 the purchase of Southport Auto Streets. On 30 June 1988, Donald F. Munro, a Director Wholesale gave the Company an entry into the wholesale market.

Donald Munro, a Director of Eagers Holdings Limited from Max White featured in the 1989 Annual Report as a long-term 1 November 1986 to 30 June 1988. Newstead Service employee. chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 187

Eagers Used Cars Pty Ltd, as it was in 1977, a landmark at the corner of Eagers Parts and Equipment at the corner of Evelyn Street Breakfast Creek Road and Evelyn Street, Newstead. Although a top class and Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead in 1977. antbed tennis court surrounded by ﬁr trees made way for the development, a new cricket practice wicket nearby proved popular with employees.

Evelyn Street in 1986, showing Eagers Personnel Division at left, Extensive frontage of Eagers Parts and Accessories, and at right the Used Car Warehouse. Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead. 188 A DRIVING FORCE

George Green hands over the keys of a VN Commodore to David Rose of the Royal Brisbane Hospital Foundation in 1989. (Green family archive)

Eagers Holdings Limited was about to move in a new direction. was once rated the largest distributor of General Motors vehicles In January 1989, AP Group Limited acquired 10.04 per cent of in the world. He saw the success of Eagers in their commitment the shares in Eagers Holdings Limited. This was increased to to not only selling a car to a customer, but in being able to trade 19.74 per cent in March and the subsequent merger was underway. their old car at the right price, and to offer ‘a service division that’s so good the customer stays with you right through’. Eagers entered 1990 as the largest selling Holden Dealer Group in Queensland. Noel Heywood retired as Managing Director, The immense contribution made to the management of Eagers Chief Executive and as a Director of Eagers Holdings Limited by the Green family ended when George Green died on on 13 July 1990. He had been with the Eagers Group for 10 February 1991, aged only 51. He was survived by his wife, the former Joan Darvall, a physiotherapist whom he had met while 44 years, and among his many achievements were his election as they were university students and married on 27 February 1965, State President of Surf Lifesaving in 1972, and as President of and their four daughters. the Brisbane Chamber of Commerce from 1979 to 1981. He was succeeded as Managing Director and Chief Executive Ofﬁcer by From New York Jane Eager sent a telegram to Jo Green the day John Armstrong, who had been with the Company for 39 years, after his death: ‘Deepest sympathy to you and the 4 lasses who and who took a great pride in having been with a Company that made George so proud. Jane Eager.’ chapter six – SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES 189

The Courier Mail in its obituary recorded:

EAGERS HEAD DIES AGED 51. Mr Green Joined Eagers in 1965 as an employee and worked his way through the company, joining the board in 1977 and becoming chairman in 1984. Noel Heywood, This was despite the fact his father, Sir George Green, was the appointed to the Board of Eagers company’s first managing director in 1913. Mr Green was highly Holdings Limited in respected as an ethical and successful public company chairman. 1966, and to the He was also a talented sportsman, winning the Royal Queensland position of Chief Golf Club championship five times between 1964 and 1972. Executive in 1971. Mr Green leaves a wife, Jo, and daughters Catherine, Susannah, He retired as Managing Director, Caroline and Alexandra. Chief Executive and as a Director A funeral service for George Green was held at St Augustine’s of Eagers Holdings Anglican Church, Hamilton. John Earnshaw delivered the eulogy, Limited in 1990. praising his friend’s great sporting ability as a golfer, an outstanding tennis player, excellent squash player and skier, and as a competent fisherman. Of his working career at Eagers from 1965 until he became Chairman in 1984 he reflected:

A daunting task. Senior people, particularly members of his family expecting much of him and the staff, naturally curious to meet and work with George. His natural courtesy and a genuine interest in his fellows, quickly won respect and admiration. He devoted himself to the work and rapidly gained an appreciation of the motor industry.

To end the eulogy John Earnshaw said: ‘He was, indeed, the quiet achiever.’

George Green, who had done so much for Rotary, was made a 75th Anniversary Paul Harris Fellow, posthumously, in 1992.

Descendants of Jabez Green, a Maryborough man who managed the Wilson Hart sawmill there, and who married Catherine Genevieve Cronin, had overseen the Company almost from its inception, so that their name was synonymous with Eagers. Sir George Green had been appointed trustee of at Mt Tamborine; another brother Thomas Edmund Green the Estate of F.Z. Eager. managed Eagers in Toowoomba; his son David Green, an accountant, worked at Newstead for some years from 1978. Sir George Green and George Green Junior both held the Prior to George Green’s death, the Board appointed George position of Chairman as did Wilfred Alexander (Bill) Green; Colman, a grandson of Sir George Green, as a Director of his brother, Lawrence Herbert Green was with Eagers the Company. Many members of the extended Green family from before World War II, and left the motor industry to farm remained significant shareholders of Eagers. 190 A DRIVING FORCE

Jabez Green’s home in Maryborough, where he managed the Wilson Hart sawmill. His sons T.E. (Ted) Green, W.A. (Bill) Green, (Sir) George Green and Lawrence H. Green were involved with Eagers. William Victor Green, the eldest son, was a manager of the Bank of New South Wales and because of that Sir George banked with them. Their sister, Ethel Ivy, died in 1962, and was not involved in the business. (STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND 130578) chapter seven

PIPER AT THE GATES (1991–2000) Alan Piper. Merger with AP Group in 1992. AP Eagers. Death of Alan Piper in 2000. 192 A DRIVING FORCE

Brian McCafferty (centre), appointed to the Board in 1988, succeeded George Green as Chairman in 1991. He is seen here with Chief Executive Ofﬁcer John Armstrong (left) and Director Brian Ball. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 193

Brian McCafferty, a Director since 1988, succeeded George Green by now that the Company should talk to Alan Piper, the founder Bas Chairman in February 1991. He described his predecessor as of AP Group Limited, who had expressed an interest in Eagers a man who was ‘quiet by nature, but whose natural reserve did as early as 1985. Brian Ball retired from the Board in 1992. not deter him from displaying determination and leadership Alan Piper was a Victorian, born on 22 December 1944, who grew when the occasion required’. Brian McCafferty, a Senior Partner up in Glen Iris. Melbourne High School fostered his competitive with prominent law firm Morris Fletcher and Cross, was to be a careful steward and a wise leader as enormous changes to the streak and he worked hard at his studies and even harder at sport, Company took place during his time in the Chair. his mother aware of how the football or cricket match had gone by the way his school bag was thrown down as he arrived home. George Colman, a career securities analyst, was appointed a Years later he kept a large, framed print of the school in his office. Director of Eagers Holdings Limited on 28 February 1991. Son of Diane Colman and grandson of Sir George Green, he made regular He completed a Commerce Degree at the University of visits from his home in Melbourne representing the substantial Melbourne in 1969. The previous year, in 1968, he had entered Green interests. He was to become well regarded by Alan Piper the world of cars, almost by accident. While his fellow students and the AP Eagers Board for his corporate financial acumen. planned a trip around Australia he stayed behind to play football and was offered a job with the Ford Sales Company of Australia The motor vehicle industry was described by the Chairman Limited (Ford). This was a move that surprised his family and that year as the industry hardest hit by the recession. Some friends who had understood he had no mechanical expertise at manufacturers, including GMH, had closed factories as reductions all, and was not even a good driver. But he was keen to succeed, in stocks were made, and prices of vehicles fell dramatically, with seeing even Monopoly or Scrabble as a serious challenge, and disastrous results for dealers and distributors. he had learned to be a quiet achiever. ‘You never learn anything In this climate, it is gratifying to note that the number of motor with your mouth open’ was a favourite motto. At Ford he was vehicles we sold was up on the previous year. We take some pride involved in marketing, and in dealer training and he travelled in the fact that in terms of vehicle sales we rank among the top continually, working through the Head Office at Broadmeadows. Holden dealers in Australia. (Annual Report 1991) Ford at that time was a breeding ground for some of the future stars of the motor industry from which Eagers would benefit. Chief Executive Officer John Armstrong reiterated the fact that these were difficult times, and that statistics showed 1991 was Family life had always been important to him and on the worst downturn in the motor industry in 40 years, largely 6 February 1970 he married Robyn Hatcher whom he had met caused by the economic recession. Changes had to be made and through a mutual friend, Craig Chandler. In 1976, still with Eagers used vehicle sales outlets at Springwood and Southport Ford, Alan, with his wife and their three infant daughters, Nicole, were closed and the Company’s Springwood property sold. The Frankie and Joanne moved to Sydney for about nine months, and Kings Auto Spares and Service Co Pty Ltd (KASSCO) building then that October another move took them all to Queensland was also sold and that business then operated from the Eagers where Alan was to take up a 50 per cent interest in the Torque Parts and Equipment Pty Ltd premises. The Newstead site Ford dealership at Redcliffe. With them went the beginnings of was to be refurbished, but plans were on hold until the future his model car collection that would be added to all his life, a box of the Newstead wharf area and urban renewal plans for the of childhood memorabilia including his marble collection in a suburb were decided upon. John Armstrong retired after his toffee tin, a red and black Essendon scarf he had made with his long career with the company on 31 October 1991. Director grandmother, and his books, most of them factual, many of them Brian Ball, representative of Jane Eager’s estate, was convinced to do with Australian history and Australian art. 194 A DRIVING FORCE

At Torque Ford Alan Piper was Company Secretary. Two years later, in February 1978, he formed Alan Piper Motors Pty Ltd in conjunction with Ford Motor Company, as a single franchised Ford dealership, and sold his interest in Torque Ford in December 1980. Alan Piper then acquired Ford Motor Company’s share in Alan Piper Motors Pty Ltd in December 1980, thereby gaining sole ownership of the Company, of which he was Managing Director. It was listed on the main board of the Australian Associated Stock Exchanges as AP Group Ltd in December 1986. A thesis on the Australian Motor Vehicle Industry had earned him a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Queensland in 1984.

Queensland to Alan Piper was seen as another challenge, and particularly when it came to football codes. He had played with the under 19s in Hawthorne, and was impressed particularly by his coach who achieved great things in a quiet way, a way he appreciated and emulated. He promoted AFL in Queensland where the Brisbane Bears emerged on the scene in 1986, and for this cause he had unlimited energy. Alan Piper was a member of the Inaugural Brisbane Bears Advisory Board in 1987, Deputy Chairman in 1991, and after the Bears merged with Fitzroy to become the Brisbane Lions, and custodians of The Gabba after a long ﬁght to free the site from the grip of other sporting bodies, particularly that of the greyhounds, he was appointed Chairman of the Brisbane Lions in February 1999. It suited him well that the motor industry gathered at the Cricketers’ Club on Fridays, where he was often found playing snooker or billiards.

The South side of Brisbane was Piper territory and the southerner really made his mark on the Queensland scene when AP Group Ltd acquired the assets of Coachcraft Ltd, at that time ‘Brisbane’s Ford dealer’ at South Brisbane. The franchised operations of AP Group by 1990 were Southside Ford at 56 Ipswich Road, Woolloongabba; Southside Toyota, 179 Logan Road, Buranda; Southside Honda, 187 Logan Road, Buranda; Austral Honda, 773 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley; and Austral Motors which included Rolls-Royce/Bentley and

Alan and Robyn Piper (centre) at a presentation at Southside Ford, Woolloongabba. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 195

Land Rover/Range Rover, located at 147 Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead, with a parts and service facility at 123 Campbell Street, Bowen Hills. Each franchise dealt in sales of new and used vehicles, sold spare parts and accessories, and provided a service facility.

Their Motor Auction operations included Southside Auto Auctions, at 456 Logan Road, Stones Corner, and Brisbane Motor Auctions, at 123 Campbell Street, Bowen Hills, buying and selling used vehicles in the wholesale market.

Company Secretary of AP Group was Ken Macdonald. He had been with Austral Group, which from 1979 was a public company and a very big entity that, like Eagers Holdings Limited, was seeing big changes in the motor industry. By early 1985 Alan Piper was steadily buying shares in Austral Group, which he would ultimately acquire through AP Group Ltd and when Austral Group decided to sell their Toyota dealership, he expressed an interest in buying it. Around this time John Lord, Austral’s General Manager and Ken Macdonald submitted an equity partnership proposal to the Austral board, which, while unsuccessful was well received by them and they subsequently reached a decision to sell the Toyota franchise to Alan Piper Motors Pty Ltd in July 1985. It then traded as Southside Toyota.

In his dealing with Austral Group Alan Piper had been impressed by Ken Macdonald and later that year offered him a position as Company Secretary of AP Motors Pty Ltd which Ken accepted. Looking back, Ken Macdonald remembers this as a time when Directors of AP Group in 1990 are from left to right: Alan Piper (Managing Director); new young stars of the motor industry were emerging, and, as in solicitor Alexander Kidd; Russell Savage, and Ben Macdonald. At far right is the case of Alan Piper, particularly from Ford. Ken Macdonald (Company Secretary). Alan Piper had selected his board well and it had remained unaltered since the company listed in December 1986. From November 1991 Alan William Piper, Managing Director Behind them is one of the works Alan Piper brought to the boardroom of AP Eagers, of AP Group, was to act as Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of Eagers by the Queensland-born artist Patrick Hockey. Alan Piper was a keen collector of Australian art, particularly of D’Arcy Doyle and also of sporting memorabilia. Holdings Limited for an initial period of two years.

In December 1991 the distribution branch of Eagers Parts and Equipment Pty Ltd in Rockhampton was closed. KASSCO ceased trading on 31 January 1992. Its assets and the property from which it had operated in Rockhampton were subsequently sold. 196 A DRIVING FORCE

Alan Piper, always keen to face a new challenge rather than just watching his funds grow, and expansionist by nature, had acquired 28 per cent of the shares in Eagers Holdings

George Colman, a Director of Eagers, an organization formed at the beginning of the twentieth Eagers Holdings Limited from 28 February 1991, and of century and reinvented half a century later, was about to enter AP Eagers until 30 June 1999. the turn of the century under a new guise. The Company still He represented the substantial operated at the same site in Newstead, was still committed to Green family interests. (Green family archive) the sale of new and used vehicles and to providing service to customers in its time-honoured way.

A proposed merger between Eagers Holdings Limited and AP Group Limited was announced on 11 June 1992 to create within one corporate structure Queensland’s largest retail motor vehicle group. It was described in the press as the $300 million-a-year marriage and it was to prove a very smooth transition. Alan Piper was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive. This was a merger to beneﬁt both Companies, Eagers through asset backing, and AP Group through earnings potential. In what was termed ‘a share-swap merger’, Eagers was to issue one share for every ﬁve AP Group shares following the payment of a special 8 cents fully-franked dividend to AP Group shareholders.

On 2 January 1992, following stockholder approval given on The 1992 Eagers Holdings Limited Annual Report, which was to 20 December 1991, Eagers Holdings Limited acquired all the be the final one under that name, stated: issued capital of E.G. Eager & Son Pty Ltd for a total cash consideration of $3,444,800. The merger is to be effected by Eagers offering one of its stock units for every five A.P. shares and is subject to: When Eagers Holdings was listed as a public company in 1957 the original Eagers founding company E.G. Eager and Son Pty 1. Eagers stockholders, other than A.P. Group, approving the acquisition in compliance with the requirements of Australian Ltd was not included in the float. It remained as a proprietary Stock Exchange Limited Listing Rule 3J(3). company under the control of the Eager and Green families to cater for their investment needs following the receipt of funds 2. Acceptance by not less than 75 per cent of the holders of from the float of the Group’s other operating companies. A.P. Group shares, representing not less than 90 per cent of the issued share capital of A.P. Group. The activities of E.G. Eager and Son Pty Ltd from 1957 revolved primarily around property ownership and the investment of The Board of Eagers believes that the merger is in the funds, moving more predominantly into those of a finance best interests of Eager and its stockholders and is company in the mid 1960s. working towards that end. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 197

The Financial Review informed its readers:

The merger would bring together AP’s Ford, Toyota, Honda, Rover, Rolls-Royce and Bentley dealerships in Brisbane with Eagers G M dealerships, parts and distribution franchises and a large tract of land in the inner-city suburb of Newstead. A P also runs car auctions.

The new company is likely to rank as Australia’s largest listed motor vehicle dealer company.

KPMG Peat Marwick in an independent report on the proposed merger found it to be fair and reasonable to non-associated shareholders in Eagers, and by August 1992 the proposal was backed by Eagers shareholders. Of the AP Group shareholders, 98.9 per cent agreed to accept the share-swap offer, and the rest of the shares in that company were compulsorily acquired.

The Directors of Eagers Holdings Limited at that time were Brian McCafferty, Alan Piper, George Colman, Brian Ball representing Jane Eager who lived in the United States, and Benjamin Macdonald, with Joan Green, widow of George Green, alternate Director to George Colman. Managing Director Alan Piper and Ben Macdonald were also Directors of AP Group. The decision to issue shares in Eagers to AP Group shareholders was considered the best way to ensure that the outcome was a properly managed structure.

The mood was positive and the focus was firmly on motor vehicle operations as well as finance operations. Alan Piper, as Managing Director, addressed shareholders for the first time at the 1992 AGM, pleased to report an increased profit trend that was due to cost saving and productivity improvement and a greater emphasis and focus on what he termed ‘dealership operational activities’. ‘We can take another challenge’ was Alan Piper’s personal motto, and, never one to take a leisurely view of the future, Caricature of Alan Piper in 1993, his attitude was infectious. soon after the merger of AP Group and Eagers Holdings Limited. 198 A DRIVING FORCE

The merger of Eagers Holdings Limited and its largest virtually run the AP Group while Alan Piper was at Eagers, was shareholder, AP Group, took place on 10 November 1992. appointed Manager – Dealer Operations. Des Jones continued Directors of what was now AP Eagers Limited were as Manager of the motor auction operations. James Russell Savage, non-Executive Chairman appointed The merger itself was implemented quickly with stringent work December 1992, who gave his occupation as Chartered practices immediately put in place. No one was to leave work Accountant and Company Director; Alan William Piper, before 6 pm, and dealers were to be telephoned just before then Managing Director and Chief Executive, appointed in to make sure they were in fact still working. Reports prepared January 1992; Alexander Matthew Kidd, Solicitor, Consultant for Alan Piper were to be on a single piece of paper, and so to the law ﬁrm of Nicol Robinson & Kidd, appointed successful was this that even the corporate plan for a coming Non-Executive Director in December 1992; George Stephen year was reduced to a series of bullet points. Colman and Benjamin Wickham Macdonald. Chairman Russell Savage was senior partner of Cooper Dennis Hull was to continue as Company Secretary in the Brothers Savage and Company, and, after a merger, of Coopers merged group, having succeeded John Armstrong as Company & Lybrand. They continued as Chartered Accountants to the Secretary of Eagers Holdings Limited in 1985. He also continued Company, an unbroken association, albeit with many name in the role of Chief Financial Ofﬁcer. As such he was the only changes, dating back to the formation of Eagers itself and the senior executive from the Eagers side in the merged group. appointment of G.S. Hutton & Macfarlane. The Company’s Ken Macdonald, Company Secretary of AP Group Ltd, having balance date was changed from 30 April to 31 December, the new accounting period in line with motor vehicle manufacturers who tended to operate on the calendar year, as did AP Group. The new name, AP Eagers Limited, ensured that they were now the first company listed in the industrial stock section of the share market as it appeared in the financial papers. The name AP Eagers Limited was designed to capture the goodwill inherent in the two merger participants.

Dinesh Khagram was promoted to Group Management Accountant following the merger of AP Group Ltd and Eagers Holdings Ltd. Born in Kenya, of Indian descent, he had qualiﬁed as a Chartered Accountant in the United Kingdom, subsequently gaining audit experience with Deloitte in Nairobi and joining a Kenyan motor dealership group, a subsidiary of the UK-based public company, Lonrho Plc. Having then migrated with his family to Australia in 1985, Dinesh undertook studies in commercial law and taxation and initially accepted a temporary position as an assistant accountant at Eagers Holden. By the time

From left to right: Dennis Hull, Company Secretary; Dinesh Khagram, Group Management Accountant; of the merger with AP Group Ltd he had held the position of and Trevor Cory, Chief Accountant and Assistant Company Secretary. After 27 years with the Eagers Group Accountant for some years and subsequently has worked Group Trevor Cory stood down from the roles of Chief Accountant and Assistant Company Secretary to improve the quality of information provided to the Board and and became Eagers Finance Accountant prior to his retirement in March 1999. management. After 27 years with the Group, Dinesh intends to retire in Eagers’ centenary year. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 199

Russell Savage, appointed non-Executive Chairman of AP Eagers in 1992. Ken Macdonald, Manager – Dealer Operations. He was appointed Formerly a Director of Austral Group Ltd which AP Group had taken over, he Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer in July 1999 and made an outstanding contribution in many fields. Having enlisted in the army remained with AP Eagers until the end of 2005. A Fellow of the in 1940, he survived from 1944-45 as a prisoner of war or ‘guest of the Institute of Public Accountants he was also Honorary Treasurer of Emperor’ as he termed it, then qualified as a Chartered Accountant. the Brisbane Broncos. 200 A DRIVING FORCE

The Registered Office was at 14 Morgan Street, Fortitude AP Eagers Limited was now Australia’s largest listed automotive Valley, Brisbane, and the principal areas of business were to be group, and quickly moved to take advantage of its position, Franchised Operations, Motor Auction Operations and Finance just one indication of success being that Eagers Newstead in Operations. Before the gentrification of the whole area, this 1993 became the No 1 Holden dealership. A great deal of good was a derelict and unsavoury site, ripe for transformation. The property came with the Eagers Holden franchise. Nevertheless, building itself, (formerly a warehouse for Coo-ee Cordials, and Alan Piper, trained at Ford, remained highly regarded by them, later Bryant Engineering Works) was converted by Architect and Ford wanted him to have their franchises as well, long Tom McKerrell, who has designed many eye catching buildings before multiple franchising became the norm. Alan Piper had for the Company. A shareholder in AP Eagers, he describes certainly put new life into the dealership world in Brisbane. them as ‘a magnificent Client’ renowned for spending not over Undoubtedly the large amount of property held by AP Eagers generously but prudently on their new showrooms. For this and their inner city dealerships posed big challenges, but they project the framework of the two-storey building was retained. owned the land, and they were all good properties, and even if for some reason a brand was relinquished, there were other The major AP Eagers Limited’s franchises included General brands that could be accommodated. Motors Holden, Ford, Honda and Toyota. Decisions had to be made about the various properties owned by the group, On 11 March 1994 the plans for redevelopment of the which should be retained as suitable for the group’s commercial Newstead site were released in a joint statement by the Lord operations, and which were now surplus to requirements. Mayor of Brisbane, Jim Soorley, and Alan Piper. The Lord Another major area of interest was to be Eagers Finance. Almost Mayor had appointed Trevor Reddacliff to take charge of an at once there was a dramatic turnaround in Group profits. Urban Renewal Taskforce that was to change the face of many On 15 February 1993, the Group purchased the business assets parts of Brisbane and particularly the Newstead, Teneriffe of Steve Hammond’s The Cottage Car Company on Sandgate and Fortitude Valley areas that were rundown and ripe for Road, Albion, through Motors Pty Ltd, a company established redevelopment. Now people were to be encouraged to return in 1935. This gave AP Eagers control over the Porsche, Audi, to the area to live and work in close proximity. Alan Piper Volkswagen and Suzuki dealerships, with the Suzuki dealership worked closely with the Taskforce and was able to achieve being transferred to the AP Eagers Breakfast Creek Road an amendment of some of the plans that would have had a facilities. The company name of Motors Pty Ltd was changed disastrous effect on AP Eagers, particularly in relation to their subsequently to Austral Pty Ltd and the additional franchises operational plans for the Newstead and Fortitude Valley sites. at Albion, recently acquired from The Cottage Car Company, The joint statement outlined how the redevelopment of the operated under the trading name ‘Austral’. AP Eagers properties at Newstead was to be done in four The Eagers Holden dealership in Toowoomba, and the property stages. Initially a parts distribution warehouse for Eagers at the corner of James and Hume Streets from which it had Holden was to be built. Stage two would see new facilities operated since November 1987, was disposed of on 4 May 1993 for the Austral franchises and the expansion and upgrading to Mark Crampton, severing a long history of country dealerships of the Austral Honda site in Fortitude Valley. The final stages stretching back to 1930. The Toowoomba dealership comprised would see new service and sales facilities for Eagers Holden. new vehicle sales, used vehicle sales, parts and service. In August In addition to this, new service facilities for Southside Ford 1993, another controlled entity, Associated Finance Pty Limited, and Southside Toyota at Woolloongabba were to be built on sold the stock units it held in AP Eagers Limited in accordance the existing sites and Southside Ford’s parts facility was to be with the rules of the Takeovers Code. updated and expanded. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 201

Brian McCafferty and Neville Crichton who was appointed a other leading companies, he brought with him enormously wide Director on 11 December 1992 resigned from the Company in respect of the business community . He had joined the family ﬁrm April 1993. Russell Savage OAM, who had also been a Director of Macdonald, Hamilton and Co, the venerable shipping agents and Chairman of AP Group Limited and involved with it since of Naldham House (later sold to the Brisbane Polo Club) in 1952. its inception in 1986, retired from AP Eagers on 13 May 1994. He was by then a recipient of the Australian Institute of Antony James Love was appointed to the Board in March 1994, Company Directors Gold Medal Award for the previous year, bringing his experience as Managing Director of McGee Isles and valued highly for his ‘dedication and wise counsel’ by Love Pty Ltd (Property Consultants), Director of Campbell AP Eagers. It was he who had instigated the nine a.m. start for Brothers Limited and of the Royal Automobile Club of Annual General Meetings, a workable strategy ensuring that Queensland. He remembers Alan Piper as a strategist, though his only the truly interested attend. The early timing of the General dream of ‘next year we will have a year of consolidation’ never Meeting also ensured there was sufﬁcient time for a normal quite happened. But the sale of surplus property and the further board meeting to take place afterwards. This was particularly acquisition of prime property did. accommodating for interstate Directors and also cost effective. Russell Savage died on 18 November 2009. Alan Piper was always on the lookout for new business acquisitions but was averse to paying for goodwill, or, as he termed it, ‘fresh air’. The new Chairman of AP Eagers Limited was the Brisbane-born Benjamin Wickham Macdonald. Also Chairman of Queensland By the time of the thirty-eighth Annual Report in 1994, sales Cotton Holdings Limited, Casino Austria International Limited revenue had increased by 14.4 per cent to $478.2 million, and Eagers and of Queensland Rural Adjustment, and a Director of various Newstead had retained its premier position as a Holden dealer.

Antony Love, Director of AP Eagers from 1994 Ben Macdonald. A Director of AP Eagers since 31 January 1992 to 2011, brought expert property advice. and appointed Chairman of the Board in 1994. 202 A DRIVING FORCE

Substantial redevelopment had taken place at Newstead as planned on what had become a rather run-down site. The old body shop and vehicle assembly plant between Austin and Evelyn Streets had made way for a new Parts Distribution Centre. Other old buildings in Evelyn Street between Creswell and Byres Street were demolished and various strategic new properties were acquired adjoining existing land.

Moves were underway to construct a new car showroom on Breakfast Creek Road for Eagers Holden, another for Austral Motors to house Audi, Volkswagen and Seat, as well as a new service and parts facility for that entity. New facilities at Fortitude Valley were planned for Rolls Royce/Bentley and Porsche. ‘Never let the lack of cash stand in the way of a good idea’ was a favourite saying of Alan Piper’s, a way to pay would be found.

Surplus properties earmarked for sale either sooner or later included: 30 Wandoo Street; 1319 Sandgate Road, Nundah; the corner of James and Hume Street, Toowoomba (sold 1996); vacant land at Thuringowa in Townsville (sold 1996); and 123 Campbell Street at Bowen Hills. Funds generated would help the redevelopment program. The negative effect of the substantially increased Fringe Beneﬁts Tax would have to be overcome.

During 1995 improvements to the parts and service operations continued, with a new facility for Southside Ford and a new service facility for Southside Toyota at Woolloongabba, both completed

Brian Hosking (at left), an employee of Eagers Parts & Equipment in in July. Evening shifts offered at both centres proved of particular Townsville, retires after 50½ years of service. Chairman Ben Macdonald advantage to ﬂeet customers. (at right) and the Board went up to Townsville for their monthly Board Meeting and to make the presentation. The auction businesses were operating in cramped conditions and in April 1995 Valley Auto Auctions at Eagle Farm was acquired, to be integrated with Brisbane Motor Auctions. This soon became Brisbane’s premier motor vehicle auction house. In turn the Damaged Vehicle Auctions moved from Wandoo Street to the Campbell Street property recently vacated by Brisbane Motor Auctions, who had moved to leased premises on Kingsford Smith Drive.

A link with the Company was severed in October 1995 with the death of Hugh Corley. His obituary in the Courier Mail recorded: chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 203

Eagers founding director dies. Queensland business and racing identity, Hugh Corley, one of three founding directors of automotive group Eagers Holdings Ltd, died on Thursday, aged 91. Mr Corley founded the automotive group, today known as A P Eagers Holdings Ltd, with brothers Sir George and Bill Green. Born in Gympie in 1905, Mr Corley joined the army in 1941 and was commissioned as an ofﬁcer in 1944.

Eagers Holdings Ltd was formed in 1957 to buy the trading business of E G Eager and Son Pty Ltd, a motor vehicle retailer and service business. Mr Corley was a director from the beginning and took over as managing director of the public company from 1968. In 1981 he was appointed chairman of the board. Retired since 1985, he has maintained strong links with Brisbane’s business community. Mr Corley is survived by his wife, two children and six grand-children.

The franchised operations were by now carried out across Brisbane. Various properties at Kedron, in the northern suburbs, were amalgamated to form a single site with frontage to three streets including the major arterial, Gympie Road. Eagers Kedron, completed in June 1996, handled the new and competitively-priced Kia models, made in Korea, as well as the established used vehicle facility.

The Newstead site, much of it owned by Eagers since before the first World War, was to be redeveloped in five stages. It would be a far cry from the original Eagers Motor Colony to look at, and it would ensure that AP Eagers remained a highly functional operation, at the forefront of the motor industry. The gathering together of the franchises, the Company’s primary source of revenue, would increase efficiency in marketing and administration, whilst clear brand definition was maintained to satisfy the requirements of the franchisors. Hugh Corley, a founding Director of Eagers Holdings Limited and later Chairman of Directors died on 12 October 1995. The strategic plan formulated earlier to move the whole business forward was progressed and updated. Stage one was to provide a new parts distribution centre for Eagers Holden, at a cost of $2.75 million, which was completed in April 1995. 204 A DRIVING FORCE

Just prior to demolition, Breakfast Creek Road, c.1998. Stage two was to be showrooms for the Austral franchises, The new parts designed to have vehicles on display along a 150 metre frontage distribution warehouse stands to Breakfast Creek Road. behind the old vehicle showroom. The third stage, planned to start in July 1996 was for new sales, service and administration facilities for Eagers Holden at Newstead, which when added to the Austral showrooms would extend the frontage to Breakfast Creek Road to 250 metres.

The Austral service facility at Newstead was the fourth stage of the project.

Stage ﬁve was to redevelop the balance of the Newstead site north of Eagers Holden, at the corner of Breakfast Creek Road and Austin Street.

The redevelopment of facilities was reflected in increased sales The cover of the of new vehicles and greater efficiency all round. By mid 1996 a Annual Report for stronger Australian dollar saw the cost of most imported motor 1996 featuring the new Austral vehicles drop, each year saw tariff protection further reduced showrooms on and the used vehicle market was affected. With increasing Breakfast Creek Road. unemployment and low consumer confidence the whole market Note the logo to tightened and trading was difficult. Nevertheless a dealership celebrate 40 years as a Public Company. development program was in train. Each dealership handled new and used vehicles, service and spare parts, though the whole used vehicle operation was changing with the new availability of cheaper cars, particularly those from Korea. Further changes were needed and a new used car facility was opened at 485 Gympie Road, Kedron.

The spectacular new showrooms at Newstead for the Austral Group of franchises, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Honda, Land Rover and Suzuki, opened in August 1996 and featured proudly on the covers of the 1996 Annual Report, though the Audi connection was severed in 1997. That year, their fortieth year as a listed company, AP Eagers increased its share of the Brisbane metropolitan market for new motor vehicles by 11½ per cent.

The Porsche and Rolls-Royce Bentley divisions were relocated to Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, in premises vacated by the Austral Honda move to Breakfast Creek Road.

Holden buyers, as always headed for Eagers Holden, at Newstead. Then in 1997 the former cramped quarters were demolished, and the facility operated out of temporary premises chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 205

At the helm of AP Eagers, from left to right are: Tony Love, Ken Macdonald, in one of the new Austral showrooms. Most prominent of all Ben Macdonald, Alex Kidd, the projects on the drawing board, the eagerly-awaited new Alan Piper and Dennis Hull, c.1998. A dynamic and Holden showrooms were opened in September 1997, on the active Board of Directors, old site at 95 Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead, with world- with a vast range of skills. class service facilities in Evelyn Street. For the fifth year in a row Eagers Holden remained the premier Holden dealership in Australia, in the newest and arguably the best Holden facility in Australia, completed at a contract cost of $5.3 million.

Behind the showroom complex was a section devoted to administration, and it was there that all the northside administration requirements were handled.

Servicing facilities, again of world-class standard, for Austral Honda and Austral Land Rover were provided immediately behind their Austral showrooms, at the corner of Evelyn and Creswell Streets, opposite the Holden service facility. This Alan Piper, Anne Pivetta, Ken Macdonald and was all well-received by customers, and had provided separate Lord Mayor of Brisbane brand identification for Honda and Land Rover, attracting Jim Soorley at the ofﬁcial additional sales bonuses. opening of the new showrooms for Austral The Audi franchise was not renewed and at the beginning Motors at Ann and Morgan of December 1997 AP Eagers became the Volvo dealer for the Streets, Fortitude Valley on 11 November 1999. Brisbane CBD, operating from temporary premises at Newstead until a new facility was built in Ann Street in the Valley. The Suzuki franchise, which had operated from leased premises at Austral Motors, Bowen Hills was relinquished in February 1998.

Eagers Mazda was constructed at the corner of Breakfast Creek Road and Austin Street, following a contract signed on 29 January 1999, and the demolition of a group of shops. AP Eagers had acquired the Mazda dealership, for the whole Brisbane Central Business District, with plans for it to be in operation by the end of the year when the new showroom was built. It was followed shortly afterwards by a new service Apart from a ﬁfteen month period away from the Group facility accessed from Austin Street. in 2001/2002 Lisa Wighton was AP Eagers Executive Personal Assistant from the mid 1990s until 2010. Another property in Evelyn Street, measuring 1,518 square During this time she worked closely with CEOs Alan Piper, metres adjoining the old Eagers Holden service facility, Ken Macdonald and Martin Ward as well as the other allowed the site to be squared off and at the same time members of the Group’s Senior Executive Team. An effective provided extra parking facilities. With the new residential and well liked young woman whose unstinting assistance to Alan Piper during the period of his illness was greatly developments along Newstead Terrace and through to appreciated by Alan and his family and by the AP Eagers Teneriffe, the Brisbane City Council was committed to Board of Directors. increasing parkland and land was exchanged with them. 206 A DRIVING FORCE

Alan Piper’s health was a cause for concern. He had been diagnosed with cancer in June 1996 but he returned to work at AP Eagers, full time, in July 1997. As the shareholders were reminded later by Chairman Ben Macdonald: ‘Even during the really tough times he Alan Piper caricature from the Courier-Mail, was thinking of where he was going to take this company’ despite the 2 July 1997, captioned: press indicating sometimes that the opposite was the case. For Alan, ‘AP Eagers boss Alan Piper… whose brother had died of the disease at 32, every year he reached back on deck after illness.’ after that age was a bonus.

A report in the Courier-Mail on 4 April 1998 that sported the headline: ‘“The Undertaker” back at the helm of Eagers’ recorded that that week: ‘he unveiled expansion plans for AP Eagers and enthusiastically guided stockbrokers, analysts, fund managers and ﬁnanciers on a tour of the company’s extensive dealership, parts and service and motor auction facilities’. They assured readers that Alan Piper, hailed by those who knew him as a visionary in the motor retailing business, had no plans to give the game away. ‘I enjoy my job. I enjoy the challenges.’ The undertaker tag was explained by ‘his tough line on deal-making’.

The property bounded by Ann, Morgan and McLachlan Streets, Fortitude Valley provided for extensive showrooms and a new service centre. In the refurbished building they made use of the frontage to Ann Street, a major thoroughfare carrying inbound city trafﬁc. Suzuki, Porsche and Rolls-Royce/Bentley had operated from Austral Motors, Bowen Hills, in leased premises.

New showrooms for Austral Volvo and Austral Porsche opened on 11 November 1999, the respective service facilities having opened mid-year. On the McLachlan Street side of the property they incorporated a Corporate Ofﬁce for the Group. They had acquired nearby land, the DAS ﬂeet site, on 11 May 1998, just across Connor Street, as it became available, adding a property of 6,872 square metres at 100 McLachlan/841 Ann Street for which they paid $1.85 million. The Company agreed to relinquish the Rolls Royce Rationalisation in the wholesale market saw the Group’s franchise when a replacement franchisee was found. Southside Motor Auctions close in October 1996, with all business to be done through Brisbane Motor Auctions at Eagle A tangible reminder of Alan Piper’s passion for Rolls Royce is the Farm, well recognised as Queensland’s premier motor vehicle ‘The Spirit of Ecstasy’ known at AP Eagers as ‘The Lady’, a larger auction house. Before long new premises were needed there as than life version of the iconic bonnet ornament. Number 28 of well, and on 3 October 1997 the Board approved the purchase a limited edition commissioned by Rolls Royce, she was made of 30,000 sq meters at 465 Nudgee Road for $40 million for a in England, of silver plated copper and was owned previously by proposed expanded Motor Vehicle Auction business. tycoon Christopher Skase and adorned the Quintex boardroom. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 207

Yet another purchase in 1998 was 485 Nudgee Road, Hendra, covering 39,666 square metres, seen as a strategic purchase to house the Group’s auction operations and for the potential development as a concentrated motor vehicle retail precinct. The purchase of property behind Breakfast Creek Road between Creswell and Waterloo Streets, formerly squash courts, was converted into a service facility for Volkswagen.

There had been solid growth with the 1998 trading result 25 per cent more than 1997, and that in turn was 25 per cent ahead of 1996. The idea of consolidating total dealership operations into cluster groups had been proﬁtable. The Group was keen to expand even further.

South of the river there was Southside Ford at Woolloongabba, and Southside Toyota at Woolloongabba/Mt Gravatt, Southside Honda, Buranda, and Southside Land Rover, Buranda.

Honda service facilities were incorporated into the Southside Honda dealership, at the corner of Logan Road and Buranda Street. Formerly they had shared a service facility with Southside Land Rover. In 1998 Austral Honda won the National Honda Dealer of the Year Award.

Then in 1999, Eagers Retail Pty Ltd purchased land suitable for redevelopment at 1974 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt for what was Ken Macdonald, centre, described as ‘a multi franchised motor vehicle sales point’. The accepts the Austral Honda, intention was to build another cluster development, the model Dealer of the Year Award for that had proved successful on the northside. 1998 from Honda executives.

AP Eagers was increasing its shareholding in MTQ Insurance Services Limited, formed in 1986, and by 1999 had a 19.24 per cent investment. MTQ (later MTQ Insurance Ltd) was made up of Queensland based motor vehicle dealers who used the company to provide consumer credit and gap insurance The Spirit of Ecstasy, for people who purchased motor vehicles from them on credit. larger than life reminder of Alan Piper’s love of the The Group’s investments were swelled by the addition of nearly two Rolls Royce brand. million shares to their holdings in Auto Group Limited (AGL), a listed company, whose principal business was the auction of used vehicles. With the acquisition of yet more shares and Alan Piper on their Board, by the end of 1999 AP Eagers had an 18.67 per cent shareholding in Auto Group Limited, with over six million shares. 208 A DRIVING FORCE

The Goods and Services Tax, to replace Wholesale Sales Tax, On 30 July 2001, after the two year vesting period, 750,000 was to be implemented in July 2000 and this caused some Employee Share Options for 30 employees were entered trading uncertainty as a buyers’ strike was threatened in the in the Register of Options – they were merged with the months leading up to it. In the long term it was considered the quoted rights options and could then be traded on the GST would benefit the motor industry, but in the short term Australian Stock Exchange. there was a fall in sales revenue. Alan Piper stepped down as Managing Director on 25 June 1999, The new Mazda franchise at Newstead immediately performed due to illness, and became non-executive Deputy Chairman well, but there was also increasing competition from the cheaper and a consultant to the Company, concentrating on strategic new small cars such as Hyundai and Daewoo. issues rather than the day to day operations. Director George Stephen Colman resigned from his position on 30 June 1999 Share capital was increased substantially in 1999 through a due to the increasing demands of his personal career as a securities one for four renounceable rights issue of 3,003,759 fully paid analyst. The depth of his financial and economic experience in ordinary shares at $4.00 per share. the business arena enabled him to contribute substantially for almost a decade from the time of the merger with AP Group. Kenneth William Macdonald, the Group’s General Manager – Dealership Operations, was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AP Eagers on 1 July 1999.

Car retailer Nicholas George Politis, through his private company WFM Motors Pty Ltd, acquired a substantial interest of three million shares in AP Eagers on 31 March 2000.

Alan William Piper died on 11 April 2000, he was 55. Many found it a pleasure to be working with him, even if he was always running late. Some had found him ruthless, particularly those he weeded out, as he saw it, for the good of the Company. Certainly he did not suffer fools gladly and saw through people at once. Mindful of succession planning he noted in one forward planning document (as usual kept to one page) that the entire corporate executive team of himself, Ken Macdonald, Dennis Hull and Des Jones were ‘all growing old at the same time’. He had changed little over the years, and had kept the same friends all his life. He had remained passionate that all his dealerships were maintained well and looked pristine, and he had become a respected competitor throughout the motor industry. Kenneth Macdonald, appointed Managing Alan’s long time friend, Craig Chandler, spoke at the funeral, Director and Chief which was held at St John’s Cathedral, Brisbane, the service taken Executive Ofﬁcer of by the then Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane, Peter Hollingworth. AP Eagers in 1999. Alan Piper, the former Managing Director of AP Eagers, died on the 11th April 2000, aged 55. He had fought a courageous battle with cancer for four years. chapter seven – PIPER AT THE GATES 209

ALAN WILLIAM PIPER 22 DECEMBER 1944 11 APRIL 2000 The following obituary was printed in the Company’s Alan’s contribution to the Motoring Industry was outstanding Annual Report: with his passion for business being matched by his love of sport, particularly Australian Football. He was the architect of the growth of AP Eagers from his first involvement with Eagers Holdings Limited in 1992, Right from his childhood in Melbourne when he represented when he was appointed Managing Director and Chief Victoria Schoolboys in Australian Rules and Cricket at Executive Officer. interstate carnivals, Alan’s ability gained him sporting rewards and built his sporting interests. He made the Victorian under Alan joined the Ford Motor Company in 1969 after 19 Australian Football side, captained Hawthorn under 19s, completing a Commerce degree at the University of then played for Hawthorn Reserves. Melbourne, and became Victorian Country Sales Manager, Eastern Region, in 1976. His Ford background was to be Alan was a prime mover in securing an AFL Licence for Queensland, which saw the birth of the Brisbane Bears in 1986. valuable when he ventured to Queensland in the same year His continued involvement saw the Bears through tough times to acquire a 50% interest in Torque Ford, a dealership on in the early 90s, merge with Fitzroy to become the Lions and the Redcliffe Peninsula close to Brisbane. relocate to their rightful home of The Gabba. He was elected The opportunity to revive an ailing Ford dealership in Chairman of the Brisbane Lions in February 1999. Brisbane’s Woolloongabba saw Alan establish Alan Piper In both his Business and Sporting activities, Alan was a master Motors Pty Ltd in conjunction with Ford, acquire the assets strategist, with an ability to identify future directions, then put of Coachcraft Ford, become Managing Director, and rename systems in place to achieve the goals. He had a strong loyalty to the business Southside Ford. This was to be the springboard friends, was interested in people at all levels who shared his love for growth in Brisbane’s motor industry. for sport and business, carried with him a wonderful sense of Alan purchased Ford’s shares in the company in 1982, added humour and was a collector of art and sporting memorabilia. Honda and Toyota franchises, then listed AP Group Ltd on Alan was an exceptional snooker player, enjoyed overseas travel, the main board of the Australian Stock Exchange in 1986. was a patriotic Australian and an astute judge of character.

In 1992 a merger was completed between Eagers and Clubs of which Alan was a member included Tattersalls Club, AP Group to form AP Eagers Limited, with Alan emerging Brisbane Polo Club, Queensland Cricketers Club and Broncos as the major shareholder. Leagues Club.

For health reasons, Alan stepped down as Managing He held the position of Director, MTQ Insurance Services Pty Director of AP Eagers at the end of June 1999 and Ltd, Director, Auto Group Limited and was a past President of assumed the role of Deputy Chairman. The Australian Institute of Company Directors, Queensland. chapter eight

AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA (2000–2013) Additional brands and dealerships. National acquisitions. Growth for shareholders. Board and Executive. A century of motor retailing. 212 A DRIVING FORCE

FROM PIPER TO POLITIS FThe Company retains the name AP Eagers, though it has moved on from the devastating loss of Alan Piper. The strong growth pattern he favoured has continued. Australia itself has expanded in a way that the Company’s founders, E.G. Eager and his son Fred, could only have dreamed of, and the car market continues to boom, despite the aspirations of city planners who advocate public transport as the better way to travel. Whereas E.G. Eager and his son saw the motoring public get used to the new concept of road signs, 100 years later it has been satellite navigation guiding drivers through the road maze of the early twenty-first century.

The founders first purchased land at Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead in 1912. A strategic buy that their successors have held on to and expanded. Where E.G. Eager and Son spread out across Queensland and down into the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, AP Eagers has operations in every Australian state and territory with the exception of Western Australia, Tasmania and the ACT, although they do have an 18.57 per cent share in West Australian motor company Automotive Holdings Group Limited, Australia’s largest automotive company, which they acquired in 2012.

AP Eagers currently represents both the best-selling and luxury brands, has nearly 100 dealerships, including their formidable bus and truck operations. And though still a purely automotive business they have acquired a great deal of prime real estate.

The transformation over a century is a fascinating story, of how the entity has read the prospective market and catered accordingly.

The Annual General Meeting held on 5 May 2000, less than a Alan Piper, the AP of AP Eagers. month after Alan Piper’s death heard Chairman Ben Macdonald speak about him in glowing terms:

He had an extraordinary understanding of both the Australian and overseas motor vehicle industries and was a highly respected dealer with unique negotiating and entrepreneurial skills that were appreciated, not only by ourselves, but also by his beloved Brisbane Lions Australian Rules Football Club of whom he was Chairman in 1999/2000. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 213

Continuity was assured with Ken Macdonald remaining as Managing Director and Dennis Hull continuing as Company Secretary and Chief Financial Officer, and it was understood that all employees would continue to support them. The Nicholas Politis, meeting was assured that from an operational point of view the AP Eagers Limited’s largest shareholder Company was ‘as strong as ever’, and there was an indication and a non-executive from Nick Politis that he would accept a seat on the Board Director since should one be offered. The Board had no doubt that with his May 2000. extensive motor industry interests in Australia and abroad he would add significantly to the Company’s future.

Alan Piper, despite his serious illness, had planned for the structure of the business to remain in good hands and had asked Nicholas Politis to take an interest in the Company. Nicholas Politis was appointed a Director on 5 May 2000, less than a month after Alan’s death. They went back a long way, having been ‘Ford dealers together’ as Nick explains, recalling Alan Piper’s years at Torque Ford and Coachcraft. Both had been part of the Ford graduate training programme, though Alan was younger. Both were sports fanatics: Alan had been Chairman of the Brisbane Lions Australian Rules Football Club while Nick was Chairman of the Sydney Roosters Rugby League Football Club. They gave birth to the current concept of corporate sponsorship for sporting clubs.

Gradually the story of the share transfer emerged, how at ‘Pipes’s’ instigation Ben Macdonald rang Nick Politis on his mobile phone unexpectedly one Sunday. They knew of each other but had never met. Alan was not well and had told Ben School, he is a Commerce and Economics graduate of the he had only a couple of months to live. ‘He wants you to buy University of Queensland. Career counselling in his final year his stake’, said Ben, ‘he trusts you to do the right thing by his steered him towards Ford, and after 12 months in Melbourne family’. Nick Politis who was about to board a flight overseas, his new career was in sales and marketing. From regional without hesitation or fuss said: ‘Tell him I’ll buy his shares and I manager in the early 1970s, he moved on to take over from will come and see him as soon as I get back.’ The rest is history. Jack Stratigos as the Queensland State Manager for Ford.

The respect for Alan Piper is clear. Nick Politis describes him as The Ford Motor Company concluded a retail joint venture with more of a stock market player than a car guy, and recalls that he various Sydney Metropolitan Dealers, to become operational on was the first of their generation to ‘go public’. Ben Macdonald 1 September 2000. It was expected that RJVs would be saw how he put life into the dealership world in Brisbane. implemented in Melbourne in 2001 and in Brisbane the following year. Ford’s RJVs were a radical change to the merchandising Nick Politis, though born in Greece and formerly on the board of new Ford vehicles in Australia, the concept having been of the Bank of Cyprus, is a declared Queenslander, from the introduced in the United States. Other manufacturers were western town of Blackall. Educated at the Ipswich Grammar adopting a wait and see attitude to this approach. 214 A DRIVING FORCE

Nick Politis was described as a Motor Vehicle Dealer, Chairman The financial arm of AP Eagers under the stewardship of of Ford’s Sydney RJV, and a Director and Executive Chairman of Roy Gray was wound back and it was agreed that the Eagers a substantial number of Proprietary Limited companies. WFM Finance Loan book be progressively liquidated. The Group Motors Pty Ltd, Nick Politis’ private company, headed the list of would move out of the direct financing arena. It was expected shareholders, holding 34.69 per cent of AP Eagers in 2000. that the bank loan, which at the end of 2000 was $6 million, would be repaid by the end of June 2003. Roy Gray, who joined Nick Politis on 5 September 2000 had sought shareholder approval Eagers Finance as Manager in December 1989, oversaw the to increase his stake in AP Eagers through the acquisition of liquidation process prior to his retirement in December 2002. 2,300,000 shares from Damelian Automobile Ltd at $4.70 per share. This was approved by shareholders at an Extraordinary Computers became increasingly sophisticated as were the General Meeting on 8 November 2000. They had been assured accompanying problems. No one problem was feared more by the Chairman that there was no indication from Nick Politis than the Millennium Bug, or Y2K as it was more commonly or Rick Damelian of a desire to take over the Company, and that known, that might devastate a computerised system, but the ‘it was necessary to endorse a cornerstone investor with strong deadline passed and it proved to be of little consequence and motor industry skills’. The meeting heard from Nick Politis that car increasingly technology became the way of the future. manufacturers, unlike other industries, identiﬁed with personalities, not with companies. They had identiﬁed with Alan Piper and the The businesses of the Metro/Torque Ford and Toyota Group inference was clear that now they would identify with him. were acquired, with settlement on 1 February 2001, making AP Eagers a strategic player in the Ford market. This was a marriage of two iconic entities, with Ford proud to advertise that it sold its first car in Australia in 1904, and AP Eagers not much younger. The new additions included Metro Alexander Kidd, solicitor and senior Ford, at Spring Hill; Metrotorque Ford, Eagle Farm; Torque partner in Nicol Robinson Kidd, Ford, Redcliffe; Torque Ford, Strathpine; and Torque Ford, he was Alan Piper’s solicitor and Caboolture; and also Torque Toyota, Redcliffe and Strathpine a founding board member of AP Group Limited. He was a Toyota, at Strathpine. The Ford Motor Company controlled Director of AP Eagers from Volvo, Mazda, Land Rover and Jaguar, the latter a new brand December 1992 to May 2001. for AP Eagers having been acquired from Nick Politis’ WFM Motors Pty Ltd. All the activity led to a huge increase in sales revenue, 36.1 per cent ahead of the previous year.

Alex Kidd, a Director since 1992 and Chairman of the Audit Committee did not seek re-election to the Board and retired on 25 May 2001. A founding Director of AP Group which listed in 1986, he had handled all Alan Piper’s legal work and the two had become close, both sharing the same wonderfully commercial outlook on life. Alex Kidd died on 16 May 2011.

Denis Alan Aitken was appointed a Director on 30 March 2001, and would serve in that capacity until 31 March 2006. He was a Director of Auto Group Ltd, and a Director and Deputy Chairman of WFM Motors Pty Ltd. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 215

It was seen as advantageous to seek the services of a dedicated motor vehicle audit firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers, long standing and respected auditors and advisors to AP Eagers, delivered their final audit report on 5 March 2001 and resigned as auditors. New auditors, Howarth Sydney Partnership were appointed on 29 June 2001.

The MG Rover franchise was acquired in 2001 and was immediately successful. It was operated under the Austral banner at Newstead. The Commodore remained Australia’s top selling passenger car enabling Eagers Holden to maintain its strong performance, and this was the Group’s most proﬁtable dealership. The acquisition of Leach Holden settled on 31 August 2001.

Queensland was far removed from the terrorist attack in the United States on 11 September 2001, now known as 9/11, but the resulting global instability for a time gave cause for concern. Overall AP Eagers in 2002 held 12 franchises: VW, Land Rover, Volvo, MG Rover, Porsche, Holden, Toyota, Mazda, Kia, Honda, Jaguar and Ford, working on the principle that brand diversity lowered shareholder risk. Baby Boomers continued to spend and the luxury market, although a small part of trading overall, Porsche Centre, Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead, in 2006. remained buoyant and growing, despite a luxury car tax imposed in recent years. In 2002 AP Eagers posted a record pre-tax profit of $12.3 million. That year they acquired the Jaguar franchise, bringing under single ownership Premier Automotive Group’s and in 2003 the new premises were operational, catering for three franchises, Jaguar, Volvo and Land Rover. the amalgamation of Metro Ford and Southside Ford Parts distribution operations. Plans were in place for the former Jaguar site at 147 Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead to be developed for Porsche and in due Brisbane in recent years has gone further skywards to accommodate course, and after unavoidable building delays, this development its ever increasing number of residents, workers and shoppers. Sites boasted the premier Porsche showroom in Australia. The state once occupied by car yards are now targets for high rise apartments. of the art Austral Porsche Dealership Centre at Newstead was In 2009 AP Eagers parted with the former DAS Fleet site, now completed and operations began there on 1 March 2004, yet 825 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, (formerly 100 McLachlan Street) another eye-catching distraction along Breakfast Creek Road. to a subsidiary of Laing O’Rourke, the United Kingdom’s largest The luxury car market was now a firm part of the Company’s privately owned construction firm, for $21.5 million. Bounded operations, and orders for eagerly-awaited new models such as by Ann, McLachlan and Connor Streets, the McLachlan & Ann the Porsche Cayenne 4WD were on the books. residential and commercial development has risen alongside AP Eagers showrooms and Head Office. For a short time the Additional land at Eagle Farm was acquired to expand the Ford complete Metro Ford dealership was relocated there, from their Spare Parts distribution business. Smash repairs were relocated outdated premises in Spring Hill, after new sales and service from Eagle Farm to Brendale, north of the city. Building began facilities were constructed and opened in 2003. 216 A DRIVING FORCE

2003 was another year of strong growth, when market capitalization passed $100 million. Another record profit, ‘a hectic year’ as Ben Macdonald termed it, and as always careful consideration was given to the balance between good dividends for the shareholders, who enjoyed a substantial increase in the share price that year, and the amount needed to be kept aside for further development. The strong market in new vehicles reflected customers’ appreciation of both affordability and the increased model range, and that range was about to be extended even further. Holding eight of the top ten volume franchises in the Australian market was a fine position to be in, but the challenge was to do better.

First and foremost AP Eagers are Motor Vehicle Dealers, but continued expansion has seen them become a serious landowner, owning over 70 acres of prime real estate. Revaluation of the Company’s land and buildings in December 2003 saw them increase by $33.1 million. In 2012 they are worth about $337 million. This huge property portfolio is central to operations, and the question has been asked from time to time, would it not be more profitable to sell the properties and lease them back. The capital gain made by operating on its own land has, over the years, provided irrefutable evidence that this way was best, except in rare cases. Development of leased sites had proved to be difficult and expensive. Much of the property has come as dealerships are acquired, though in some cases vacant land has been bought and set aside to enable existing businesses to expand their operations as city Architect Tom McKerrell, at left, with Ken Macdonald, Managing Director and Warwick Stansfield, growth escalates. In recent years as property markets and ownership then General Manager Porsche Centre Brisbane, at McLachlan Street, prior to construction of a state strategies have evolved, in appropriate circumstances the Company of the art facility for Porsche at Breakfast Creek Road, Newstead. has seen fit to occupy particular dealerships as a tenant rather than to own the freehold.

With a view to ensuring the Company’s dealerships are situated in eye-catching locations, from time to time suitable properties have been acquired as opportunities arose, both on the north and south sides of the Brisbane CBD. But nothing compares with the Company’s strategic holdings at Newstead, on the eastern side of Breakfast Creek Road. As Bill Green reminisced years ago, Eagers had bought land there as it became available. Now if land is in the right place, and not just at Newstead, at the right price it may well be a target. AP Eagers embarked on even further expansion, this time acquiring, in two stages, a vast site on the western side of Breakfast Creek Road, bounded by Edmund, Ross and Durong Streets, adjacent to the Mitsubishi dealership, part-owned by Nick Politis. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 217

This proved a shrewd purchase with the potential for a shared consecutive year of record sales. Once again Toyota dominated development incorporating high rise residential as well as the the market, with Holden in second place, whereas MG-Rover was Suburu, Peugeot and Mitsubishi dealerships which were all set to disappear from the scene after its collapse in the United operating alongside each other. It gave the Company a 220 metre Kingdom - although devoted owners of the old British brand frontage to Breakfast Creek Road, on the opposite side of the would still be looked after with parts and service available in ‘the road to their original holdings. They had managed to consolidate Valley’. A century of trading has seen the fashions come and go. this block that was five acres in the old terminology or about two Alongside the fuel-hungry four wheel drives, small cars such as Kia hectares, an enviable parcel of land, despite contamination issues to have become increasingly popular. Luxury cars such as Porsche be addressed as there had been a foundry on part of the site. But may have faced increased competition, but they continue to sell. exciting as it would have been to have extensive activities on both The Company’s Toyota franchise at Gympie Road, Strathpine, was sides of this major thoroughfare, it was subsequently deemed surplus expected to move to new dealership facilities at Brendale, and the to requirement and some years later was sold at a good profit. Gympie Road site could then be sold. Torque Toyota and Torque AP Eagers had acquired all the shares in City Automotive Group Ford were to move from Redcliffe to land purchased at North Lakes Pty Ltd on 1 July 2004, and the associated land and buildings, in 2005, part of the new and popular Mango Hill development, from WFM Motors, for $14.1 million. This brought them about 25 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD. The Redcliffe the City Mitsubishi, City Subaru and City Peugeot franchises, land was sold being surplus to requirements. all conveniently situated at Newstead, adjoining the property recently bought by the Company from the Reliance Worldwide Manufacturing Group. This was achieved with shareholder approval of a special resolution, Board members Nick Politis and Denis Aitken being also directors of WFM Motors did not vote on the resolution. Shareholders were advised that this acquisition was a ‘key plank’ in the Directors’ strategy to grow the Company, and that an independent expert had found the move fair and reasonable to non-associated shareholders. That year a record Group pre-tax profit of $17.2 million was achieved by AP Eagers.

Suburu had been operating from several sites in the western suburbs of Brisbane and land was bought eventually at Toowong, at the corner of Milton Road and Miskin Street, to suit the requirements of the franchisor and of the Company. The Suburu purchase was augmented by the purchase of Westpoint Suburu, at 1200 Ipswich Road, Moorooka. With premises at the corner of Breakfast Creek Road and Evelyn Street, Newstead, their proud boast was: ‘We’ve grown steadily year on year since 1997 and today Brisbane City Subaru is Queensland’s largest Subaru Dealer and one of the top Subaru Dealers in Australia.’ Janelle Wojtowicz, AP Eagers’ ﬁrst female Dealer Principal, at right, pictured at the Australia was enjoying strong employment and domestic 2012 Christmas function with the Company’s Executive Assistant, Stacey Henschell. spending was up. The national new vehicle market at the end of 2004 recorded an all time record of 955,229 units sold, the third 218 A DRIVING FORCE

The North Lakes dealerships were soon to be joined by the value to shareholders’. AP Eagers is proud of its consistent earnings Company’s third Honda franchise, Torque Honda. Excellence and dividends that are not dependent solely on vehicle sales, but rest was being rewarded, with Southside Honda having been as well on the Company’s parts and service operations. awarded the National Honda Dealer of the Year for two years in succession. Janelle Wojtowicz had been promoted to On the southside of Brisbane the Company redeveloped a large General Manager of Southside Honda on 1 December 2005 property at Logan Road, Upper Mt Gravatt for a Southside Toyota and has the distinction of being AP Eagers’ first female Dealer Branch facility, adjacent to Garden City. This became operational Principal. Following the success of Southside Honda, Janelle at the end of 2005, and where there had been premises for new and was appointed to the helm of Torque Ford Brendale, Torque used vehicle sales, now there were full dealership facilities, including Ford North Lakes, and Torque Honda, North Lakes, with over service and spare parts. Unsurprisingly for the astute property people 100 staff members across the three dealerships. that they are, the sale of surplus land brought in far more than they had paid for the original cost of the whole property. Southside As Janelle Thomas, a backpacker from New Zealand who had Volvo and Southside Land Rover sales outlets were also completed spent some time in Sydney, she started in 1986 at Southside by the end of 2005, situated at 1388 Logan Road, Mt Gravatt, on Ford, Woolloongabba, handling sales of new vehicles. She moved Company land that had been leased to an external tenant. to Eagers Holden, Newstead in 1991, and ambitious to become a business manager, she was given that opportunity at Southside By this time the traditional Brisbane suburban opportunities were Honda, and at Austral Honda where she looked after various all but exhausted and AP Eagers looked to regional and interstate dealerships. After about eight years as a business manager, with expansion, targeting different geographical locations, spreading its long hours and huge responsibility she was keen to return to the business to accommodate its cyclical nature. Sales of surplus life as a car salesperson. In July 2001 she was offered the position property at Upper Mt Gravatt, at Strathpine and at Caboolture of sales manager at Southside Honda, where in 2002 they won ensured there was funding available. The Group acquired its first National Dealer of the Year for Honda, and again the following interstate franchise, in the Northern Territory, in May 2005: year. She recalls that the dealership expanded each year to the Bridge Toyota, in Darwin and Palmerston. This was added to the benefit of both the Company and herself. She left Southside empire at a cost of $12.6 million. Honda in September 2010 to take a promotion being offered at North Lakes and Brendale, where there were three brands and Closer to headquarters, better roads to the coastal areas to the greater turnover, that in turn brought greater challenges with north and south of Brisbane have encouraged new residential processes to be put in place and extra stock to be dealt with. developments and give further opportunity for those who can As a female in a still very male dominated industry she has supply vehicles. A growing problem for the Group has been the been keen to show AP Eagers that they were right to give her increase in the cost of building materials, and of labour, and the job as General Manager and never to let them down. For a shortage of tradespeople saw completion dates for various her the job is about people, working in together with staff and scheduled works put back, such as the new Toyota dealership at training them, and being approachable – it is not just about Brendale, in the outer northern suburbs of Brisbane. car sales and figures. Space to store the ever increasing number of new vehicles has been In 2005 a record Group pre-tax profit of $19.1 million was achieved, a pressing concern, necessitating further service and pre-delivery and turnover surpassed $1 billion. This was the year that opened facilities despite the ever increasing cost of buying land. Staffing with the expectation of total Australian sales of over one million all the parts of such a large operation is a constant concern and a units. Shareholders enjoyed capital growth and increased income – national shortage of service technicians is a problem. After hours ‘That’s what we’re there for’, declared Nick Politis recently, ‘to give service operators have added increased competition. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 219

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MARTIN WARD Martin Ward, who took over Ken Macdonald, Managing Director and Chief Executive as Chief Executive Ofﬁcer Ofﬁcer for six and a half years, retired from the Board on from Ken Macdonald. He 31 December 2005, after 26 years service with the Group. was appointed a Director on 6 March 2006 and is Chairman Ben Macdonald recorded at the 2006 Annual General recognised as the main Meeting: ‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ken for architect of the Company’s his contribution in leading the Company after taking over from future growth. Mr Alan Piper just prior to his death in April 2000.’

Martin Andrew Ward BSc (Hons) FAICD was appointed Chief Executive Officer Designate on 1 July 2005 and an Executive Director on 6 March 2006. He is described in the Annual Report for 2006 as:

Motor Vehicle Dealer. Formerly Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of Ford Motor Company’s Sydney Retail Joint Venture. Mr Ward has a relevant interest in 11,386 shares of A.P. Eagers Limited and has rights under the Share Incentive Plan.

Martin Ward joined Chairman Ben Macdonald and fellow Directors Nick Politis, Antony Love, and Denis Aitken. In Sydney he had worked with Nick Politis, Chairman of Ford’s Sydney Retail Joint Venture, who had recommended him to the other Board members as a potential Chief Executive Ofﬁcer to take over from Ken Macdonald who was retiring.

He has been entrusted with the job of taking the Company forward, and his ‘drive and enthusiasm’ that were remarked upon A British accent betrays Martin’s origins before he arrived in by the Chairman have been much in evidence ever since. He Australia in 1996, and he admits that, as the son of a schoolmaster is fanatical about business strategy and soon after he arrived at in a grammar school, who loved opera, and a bank clerk mother the Company in July, keen to understand the current operational who loved bingo, his upbringing has ensured that he can identify structure of AP Eagers, he held a two hour session with each with most people in the Company. Clearly at AP Eagers he enjoys manager, to learn their individual capabilities. a beer with the mechanics as much as his seat in the boardroom. He saw that an operational person was needed and before long In England he played semi-professional basketball. To play sport Keith Thornton was appointed General Manager Operations and pass exams were his aims, and he obtained a BSc (Hons) in – Vehicles on 1 December 2005. Integral to the current senior Mathematics from the University of Surrey. He managed to ﬁt team, he had been a Dealer Principal, running Austral, when in cross country running as well, always focussing his energy on Martin Ward arrived. leading and winning. 220 A DRIVING FORCE

He describes his skills as ‘numbers and people’ and these soon The asset base has been growing steadily. By 2005 ‘cluster groups’ won him a job as a regional Managing Director with Inchcape of franchises were established at Newstead, Fortitude Valley, PLC, becoming in 1996 Managing Director of Inchcape Woolloongabba, Mount Gravatt, Brendale and at North Lakes. Motors (Australia), the prominent importer and retailer of This represents in itself an immense property portfolio. Were they motor vehicles. With his good mathematical mind he was soon ‘badged’ as AP Eagers the vast size of this network would be more appointed Regional Chief Executive Officer and Director Asia obvious. ‘Do they own that?’ The answer is often ‘yes’. Pacific/Australasia. Inchcape’s Chief Executive Officer chose him to attend Harvard in 2000, in the Senior Advanced At the Annual General Meeting in May 2006, shareholders were Management Program and after that he went to Ford until 2005. treated to an ‘overhead presentation’ that illustrated the scope of the Brisbane property portfolio and operations. They saw before As Chief Executive Officer of AP Eagers Martin Ward first them the six cluster developments, starting with Newstead where addressed the Board and shareholders at the Annual General it all began and were assured: ‘Your Company has not great but Meeting on 12 May 2006, obviously proud to be in his new role outstanding land and facilities in superb locations not only for with such a successful enterprise: today but for tomorrow’s growth.’ I am extremely impressed by the calibre of the management team, The six cluster developments were: so much so that I have made virtually no change to the existing structure. I might also add that I was very impressed by the extent Newstead: nine franchises – Eagers Holden, Eagers Mazda, and quality of the Group’s franchise and property portfolios. Austral VW, Honda and Land Rover, Porsche Centre What a solid base to build on. Brisbane, City Subaru, Peugeot and Mitsubishi.

Fortitude Valley: three franchises - Metro Ford, Austral Volvo and Brisbane City Jaguar – and the corporate headquarters.

Woolloongabba: three franchises – Southside Toyota, Southside Ford and Southside Honda.

Mount Gravatt: three franchises – Southside Toyota, Southside Land Rover and Southside Volvo.

Cufﬂinks inscribed: Brendale: three franchises – Torque Ford, Torque Toyota ‘E.G. Eager and and Torque Kia, plus a Northside pre-delivery facility. Son Ltd. Salesman’s honour badge.’ North Lakes: three franchises - Torque Ford, Torque Toyota and Torque Honda.

Used vehicle auction group Auto Group Ltd, in which AP Eagers held an 18.67 per cent stake, was placed in receivership on 10 February 2006. Prior to this date AP Eagers was considering

Outstanding Performance is a potential merger with Auto Group and was undertaking due recognised. AP Eagers Limited diligence. As the deteriorating financial position of Auto Group Dealership of the Year Trophy, became clear, AP Eagers informed the Australian Stock Exchange first presented in 2002 to Finance Jim Keegan, General Manager, on that date that it had terminated the potential merger due to medallion. Southside Toyota. the substantial deterioration in Auto Group’s financial position. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 221

Subsequently agreement was reached with the receivers for AP Eagers to acquire the assets of the Brisbane-based Auto Group auction operations. In March 2006 the Company re-entered the used vehicle auction business with the acquisition of Brisbane Motor Auctions at Eagle Farm, Brisbane.

As land has been bought and sold, so there has been relocation of franchises and with the disposal of the City Automotive Group site at Newstead there were three to be moved – City Suburu, City Peugeot and City Mitsubishi. This time no more land was needed, for the three entities were to be placed on already existing and significant Group sites. Land Rover Torque Honda, North Lakes, 6 July 2007. moved up to the Valley to be amalgamated with the Jaguar and Volvo operations, making room for City Suburu at Newstead, in a prominent position on the ‘original strip’. Peugeot people followed the silver lion from a side street in Newstead to the now post-Urban Renewal and very fashionable James Street in the Valley, again in a refurbished Group property. City Mitsubishi moved to the very prominent and now state of the art 95 Breakfast Creek Road, to be voted in 2011 Brisbane’s Number One Mitsubishi dealer for satisfaction in sales and service and loving it.

Healthy returns have been provided by the Company’s investment in MTQ Insurance Services Limited, a company owned by motor vehicle dealers and set up to provide credit and City Subaru, corner of Breakfast Creek Road and Evelyn Street, Newstead, 2012. gap insurance to purchasers of motor vehicles.

Further dealership acquisitions in recent years have included Bayside Honda/Kia in Cleveland, from administrators and receivers of Auto Group Cleveland Pty Ltd, a suburb seeing large population growth. Surfers City Holden, Saab and Hummer, perhaps better known as ‘the Gold Coast’s Lion Park’, not far from the business heart of Southport on the Gold Coast, were acquired in August 2007. A few years later north of Brisbane, Caloundra City Autos group of dealerships was acquired in April 2010, bringing under the AP Eagers Sunshine Coast umbrella the five brands, Holden, Honda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki and Great Wall, and two more prime sites Bridge Toyota, Darwin. in another fast-growing region. 222 A DRIVING FORCE

Lexus showroom, Darwin, 2008.

The venture into the Northern Territory has been most successful locations.’ Employees have in recent years been able to take up the and Hidden Valley Ford and the Stuart Motor Group Darwin offer of $1000 of tax free shares, with senior managers also able were acquired in August 2006, with restructures put in place. A to sacrifice commission entitlements for shares in the Company. Lexus showroom was built on the premises that housed Bridge That solid base and the ability to adapt quickly to changing Toyota, following the acquisition of the Lexus franchise. Another circumstances have stood the Company in good stead in the move away from Brisbane was the purchase in late 2006 of the years leading up to and through the Global Financial Crisis as Audi/Citroën dealership at Kawana Waters, on the rapidly- less solid entities have crashed all over Australia and further developing Sunshine Coast. afield. E.G. Eager and Son weathered two world wars and the AP Eagers is a strong believer in retaining its quality employees. Great Depression of 1929. Martin Ward took over the reins of Measures have been put in place to provide incentives for valued AP Eagers as the whole vehicle industry was undergoing critical and trusted people to have career opportunities within the change. Petrol prices were increasing and everywhere it was Company and not to have to seek careers elsewhere. Employee obvious that the large gas guzzlers were the new dinosaurs and share plans have seen management and employees able to gain mid to smaller range vehicles were favoured by an increasingly equity in the Company. Martin Ward declared in 2006: ‘I am a firm environmentally-conscious public. Fortunately for AP Eagers, believer in the view that management and employees with equity in Queensland and in the Northern Territory car sales were in the business become more result driven.’ One of his slogans increasing and the new CEO was quick to point out that the is: ‘Great People, great products, and great facilities in the correct Company represented eight out of the top ten volume franchises. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 223

GOLDEN JUBILEE AS A LISTED COMPANY Coupled with this is the necessity to constantly improve Information Technology capabilities across the expanding Last Friday we had our 49th Annual General Meeting, so next Group. Management, and particularly Dennis Hull who early year we will celebrate 50 years as a public company and 94 years in 2007, had informed the Board of his intention to retire at since formation. In fact shareholders are asked to press lightly the end of July 2008, had recognised that greater specialisation when signing the AGM attendance book, as the original book, in these important areas was imperative, with the result being now 49 years old, is still used today and the paper is showing some aging. (CEO Martin Ward in 2006.) that a better delineated management structure was put in place in readiness for his retirement. Fifty years as a listed company. This was the milestone the Company reached on 17 April 2007, an unusual achievement for Please be advised that Mr Dennis Hull has today 31.7.2008 a Queensland company as Ben Macdonald was quick to point out. retired as Company Secretary of AP Eagers Ltd after having held He added proudly: senior management roles with the company for over 25 years. The Board thanks Mr Hull for his signiﬁcant contribution to the Not only has the Company been listed for 50 years but it has company’s success and wishes him well in his retirement. also paid a dividend every year since listing, and moreover, has paid record dividends in the past six years. Increasing pressure of work had told him it was time to go, but, with his unrivalled corporate knowledge and the centenary of We must never lose the ability to make soundly based business Eagers looming, his role was not yet over and he willingly agreed decisions on a timely basis. If we can’t do this some viable to assist with the compilation of the Company’s 100 year history. opportunities may be lost to us.

So said Ben Macdonald and indeed opportunities to acquire dealerships come thick and fast, particularly as owners of private concerns retire. The Company must evaluate and choose, and build on its solid foundations. As such it has been important to Dennis Hull, Company have a dynamic Board, with many and diverse skills, and a solid Secretary of Eagers Holdings Limited and executive management. then of AP Eagers, he was described justly as ‘long serving and highly effective’ when he retired GROUP COMPANY SECRETARY in 2008 after 25 years with the Group. Legal requirements have demanded a huge increase in expertise relating to contracts and dealership operations. Great skill is needed with funding requirements and the corporate complexity of arrangements for the ever-expanding number of franchises, as it is to deal with reporting requirements to shareholders and bodies such as the Stock Exchange, the Australian Securities & Investments Commission and the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission.

Compliance with these requirements and the growing raft of other governmental control measures is paramount. Severe penalties apply to companies and their Directors and Ofﬁcers who fail to satisfy the maze of increasingly complex legislation. 224 A DRIVING FORCE

Retiring Company Secretary Dennis Hull, feted in 2008 with a card signed in red ink by many of his fellow workers and business associates. His red pen had annotated many Company papers. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 225

In preparation for Dennis Hull’s retirement, Brisbane-born The Group’s system for compliance with occupational safety Denis Stark was appointed as General Counsel and Company and environment protection legislation and also worker’s Secretary of the Group in January 2008. An affiliate of compensation and licensing requirements were overseen by Chartered Secretaries Australia, he holds degrees in Economics the Company’s Corporate Services Manager, Ron Emery, who and Laws from the University of Queensland and is admitted reported directly to the Company Secretary. Ron started with as a solicitor in Queensland and Victoria and in the High AP Eagers in February 2001 following the acquisition of the Court of Australia. Metro/Torque Ford and Toyota Group where he had held a similar position since 1993. He was highly regarded for his After working as a commercial lawyer in Brisbane, then knowledge in these areas and for the unassuming manner in Melbourne, for some years, Denis moved with his wife to which he carried out his role. In almost 20 years of loyal service Toowoomba in Queensland. There he worked in senior to the Group, Ron did not take a single day of sick leave. management with Grainco Australia, a public company growing its national footprint in the consolidating agricultural sector, Born in Bundaberg in 1949, he joined the Australian Regular until it was taken over. After an approach from Queensland Army in 1966 and was posted to the Army Apprentices School Cotton it was time for Denis and his wife, now with three young at Balcombe, Victoria, where he trained and graduated as a sons, to return to Brisbane. He remained a senior executive mechanic. Every year he was the top student and he received the with that company for several years as it expanded interstate Governor General’s Medal upon graduation in 1968. Graduates and overseas until it too was taken over. His commercial of Balcombe have long been regarded among the best trained legal and secretarial experience with public companies that tradesmen in the country. had established themselves in Queensland before spreading interstate in fragmented but consolidating industries made for a natural fit with AP Eagers and its diversification strategy. It has enabled him to assist with growth plans while coming to grips with the peculiarities of the automotive industry. Denis Stark, General Counsel and Company Secretary of In Denis’ thinking the Company’s point of difference is its AP Eagers since January 2008. “People really enjoy people. He says: working for AP Eagers. It is a very open working culture, People really enjoy working for AP Eagers. It is a very open not held back by egos or working culture, not held back by egos or skeletons in closets. skeletons in closets.”

Looking after the legal aspects and contractual side of so many franchises and freehold and leasehold properties in a fast-growing organisation is onerous, but to be involved in business acquisitions and corporate actions, without being the target, is a good position to be in.

The fact that the Company has a dynamic Board and never stands still is exciting, there is always something happening, as Denis Stark puts it: ‘usually on all fronts’. Fashions change and from time to time brands and products come and go due to the cyclical nature of the industry, with each new manufacturer having its own view of the world. It is never boring – there is a new challenge at every turn. 226 A DRIVING FORCE

KLOSTER MOTOR GROUP Expanding the operational base is part of the AP Eagers plan and after careful consideration the Kloster Motor Group was Ron Emery, Corporate Services Manager. acquired in February 2007. Klosters is the largest automotive In almost 20 years of retailer in the Newcastle and Hunter Valley region of New loyal service, Ron did South Wales, and at the time of acquisition had exclusive not take a single day of sick leave. representation for BMW/Mini, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki and VW.

Klosters is a venerable motoring company in New South Wales, founded by Christian H. (Harry) Kloster, the son of a Prussian immigrant. Harry Kloster grew up in Sydney just at the right time to be at the forefront of motoring, and was appointed to the Committee of the Motor Traders Association of New South Wales (founded 1911). In 1919 he founded Standardised Motors Ltd. He became the representative for Dalgety and Company Ltd at the time when they were the sole agents for Dodge Brothers, Detroit, and in due course he developed a Dodge Assembly plant at Ashfield.

Fascinated by the progress of motor transport in the United States, he watched with interest as Sydney too gradually phased out its horse-drawn vehicles as motor cars and motor trucks Ron Emery was promoted through the ranks, and ultimately became more affordable and the way of the future. His sons commissioned as an officer. His latter postings included a Geoffrey and Harley toured the world with him in 1927, transfer to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea where he worked looking at cars in the United States, in Great Britain and in at the Australian High Commission as the Logistics Officer Europe. Endurance in a man and in a motor car was for Harry overseeing Australian Aid to PNG Defence Force. Later he was Kloster one of the most important features. transferred to Brisbane, to the Bulimba workshops. He retired Harry Kloster died in 1945, and Harley Kloster took over the with the rank of Major in 1993. firm following the death of his brother Geoffrey in 1946. Great At AP Eagers Ron assisted with the Group’s training needs, expansion of the parts division followed, and Harley Kloster apprenticeship intake and employees sourced from overseas introduced financial services for his customers. The dynasty on federal government visas. His strong communication skills, continued with his son Michael Kloster, a stockbroker, taking over patience and perseverance made him ideally suited to his role the management of the Company in 1967, expanding the firm’s and a real asset to the Company. Ronald James Emery died Newcastle locations to five. Harley Kloster sold the business in unexpectedly on 8 December 2012, aged 63. 1975 and with his death in 1986 it was the end of an era.

Ron had been ably assisted by Paul Davenport who has been with In 1986 the Kloster business was purchased by Peter Dunn from the Group since 1986 and who continues to provide dealership the previous owner, John Larkin. Peter Dunn subsequently invited support in many of the areas previously under Ron’s control. Peter Robinson and Trevor Reading to become shareholders chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 227

in 1988 and they conducted the business through several companies incorporating their initials PPT. These companies were acquired by AP Eagers at the time of acquisition of the

Kloster group. Whilst Peter Dunn retired from the business at Harley Kloster and his wife, the time of the sale, and Peter Robinson shortly thereafter, Trevor the former Joffre Brown, on Reading chose to remain as ﬁnancial controller of the business. his boat the Joffre, c.1950. (Kloster Archive) Wayne Sharp, Group General Manager of Klosters since 1996 after joining the business in 1988 as General Manager of Raymond Terrace, has driven the Klosters business to new heights following the acquisition by AP Eagers. Klosters was recognised as AP Eagers’ Dealership of the Year in both 2009 and 2011.

At a cost of $63million including $34million for land and buildings, the Kloster acquisition was AP Eagers’ largest acquisition to date. Now they had representation in all the top 10 selling brands in Australia and in 26 of the top 30 brands.

Ford parts being delivered to the Klosters plane for speedy delivery, c.1940 (Kloster Archive)

Klosters opened a branch in Newcastle in 1935, where they were the sole distributor for Ford. (Kloster Archive) 228 A DRIVING FORCE

The Ford Falcon displayed at Klosters in 1960. (Kloster Archive) Kloster showroom display, 1960.

Kloster Ford, Newcastle and Raymond Terrace, recognised as the No. 1 Ford Kloster Group Parts Distribution Centre, c.2000. (Kloster Archive) dealership in rural Australia, May 1992. Ford dealer operations manager, Shaun Swift (far left), celebrates with the Kloster Ford team, managing director Peter Dunn, ﬁnance director Trevor Reading, sales director Peter Robinson and Raymond Terrace general manager Wayne Sharp. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 229

BILL BUCKLE AUTO GROUP Further expansion of AP Eagers’ New South Wales operations took place in March 2008 with the acquisition of the Bill Buckle W.G. Buckle, at right, Auto Group, the premier motor dealership group in Sydney’s delivering a Triumph Gloria Northern Beaches region including Brookvale and Mosman, for sedan to his friend and approximately $36 million, including $22 million for land and aviator Charles Kingsford- buildings. The Bill Buckle Auto Group operated four premium Smith at the William Street showrooms in 1934. brands, Toyota, Volkswagen, Subaru and Audi. (Bill Buckle archive) At the time of acquisition Martin Ward said it was an exciting addition because the Bill Buckle business ‘is ideally situated in an outstanding location in a tightly held automotive strip on Pittwater Road in Brookvale’.

Following the acquisition, Managing Director of the Bill Buckle business, William J. Buckle (known as Bill Junior), continued on as Dealer Principal. This continued the Buckle family’s strong tradition in serving the Sydney area, with the Bill Buckle Auto Group having been established in 1927 by Mr Buckle’s grandfather, William G. Buckle.

In demonstration of the Buckle family’s commitment to AP Eagers, the Buckle family took $3 million of AP Eagers shares as part payment for the sale.

The Bill Buckle Auto Group dates back to 1927 when William G. Buckle established Buckle Motors Pty. Ltd., with showrooms at 127 William Street, Sydney. He had acquired Triumph and Talbot franchises for New South Wales and later Armstrong-Siddely and De Soto (Chrysler Corp.) vehicles, with Citroën added in 1949.

His son, William F. Buckle (known as Bill Snr) was a talented designer, and the Buckle 2.5 Coupe, a ﬁbreglass-bodied sports car of which just 20 were produced, was such a success that in 1958 he went to Bavaria and returned with the rights for Australia to produce ﬁbreglass bodies for Goggomobil cars. Company records show that 4000 cars were assembled from the German mechanical parts, with various style bodies including the Dart, a Buckle Motors permanent stand at Sydney showground for the Royal Easter Show, light sports car, designed by Bill Snr. c.1950. (Bill Buckle archive) 230 A DRIVING FORCE

Goggomobil Dart, designed by W.F. Buckle, being loaded aboard the Qantas Car being received by Sir Jack Brabham and the Australian High Commissioner in Super Constellation’s ﬁrst cargo ﬂight, 1959. (Bill Buckle archive) London, before going to the factory in Bavaria for assessment. (Bill Buckle archive)

W.F. Buckle delivering a Toyota Tarago to good friend Ben Lexcen, designer of the Bill Jnr and Bill Snr after the opening of the new Toyota showroom in 1992. winged keel for Australia 2’s Americas Cup victory in 1983. (Bill Buckle archive) (Bill Buckle archive) chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 231

After further expansion, in 1961 the company was bought by Williamson has owned three Buckles at different times over Hong Kong interests and Bill Buckle formed Bill Buckle Auto Pty. more than 50 years and bought his first aged 19. As Buckle Ltd trading in used cars on Parramatta Road. Bill Buckle Auto enthuses, “it has been really nice to take in the enthusiasm for Conversions followed two years later in Brookvale, whereby the my car from really nice people and we have really enjoyed a fashionable American cars were converted to right hand drive. The number of events together.” company dealt as well in used sports cars, and in 1964 obtained the Toyota franchise, which proved an astute move. Bill Snr went He’s particularly stoked that the original prototype Buckle on to design the award winning ‘Sportsroof’. About this time, his convertible with detachable roof is still in existence. son, William J. (Bill Junior) joined the Company, and in 1985 “We stripped the mechanicals to use in the first production became Managing Director ably assisted by his sister Jane. In 1994 car and sold the rest in 1958 to a guy in Canberra. He re-built the Subaru franchise was acquired, proving another success story, it and it then passed through three other owners before going and in 2004 the Volkswagen range of vehicles was added to the to New Zealand and the U.K. – it’s now owned by a German Bill Buckle Group, and once again spectacular growth followed. enthusiast so I guess you could say it really has become a true International model.” TIME TO REFLECT [David Berthon in Unique Cars, 9 August 2012.] As we chat I look over Pittwater and note a very smart 15-metre cruiser moored in front of Buckle’s Bayview home. Having just reached 86 years Bill Buckle (Bill Snr) looks back “That’s Wildcat, a catamaran that I designed myself and I’m with a sense of pride at his pioneering achievements with glass rather proud of the design of the wave breaker hull.” Just fibre body construction in the 1950’s. ‘I also look back with a another example of Bill Buckle’s innovative mind still going degree of trepidation when you consider we were doing 130mph strong long after his celebrated Coupe hit the road.’ down a tree-lined Conrod Straight at Bathurst in these cars with nothing but a lap belt.” In recent years Bill Buckle was asked to give a lecture at the Powerhouse Museum in Sydney about building cars in Buckle also believes he is one of a rare breed of car collector today – Sydney 60 years ago. As he explained to David Berthon for “how many people who manufactured cars in the 1950’s have then an article in Unique Cars in 2012: ‘The museum has had a set about restoring some examples 60 years later. I must be mad.” Goggomobil Dart for some years, I also have several nice ones How does he feel about his design today? “You know, I get a so they thought it would be good to get a Buckle there as well.’ lot of comments about the body – I think it’s still a very smart Undaunted, and with great initiative and skill he managed to looking coupe and has aged well. We learnt from the prototype restore not one but two Buckles, production numbers 14 and and the production car turned out pretty well considering there 16. Many of the original 20 are going strong, as is the original were no design drawings.” prototype, the convertible with detachable roof.

Of the 20 Buckles produced a surprising number are still The Bill Buckle Auto Group retains its identity: in existence and there is strong following with one owner, Bob Williamson, setting up a website and a register of owners. “Buckle up ……. It’s a great feeling.” 232 A DRIVING FORCE

BS Stillwell Ford has an exceptional name in South Australia. (Adtrans archive)

ADTRANS GROUP LIMITED In August 1968 Graeme joined Bermar (Bib) Sellars Stillwell who had founded the Stillwell Automotive Group in 1950. Strategic investments are always exciting, and in 2007 AP Eagers Originally starting as General Sales Manager, Bib had head invested in Adelaide based but publicly listed Adtrans Group hunted Graeme to join his group as Graeme had already Limited (ASX: ADG). This gave AP Eagers entry into the South established himself as one of the fastest rising talents in the Australian car market and nationally into the Heavy Truck market, Victorian automotive industry. Graeme and Bib became lifelong many years after the Green family had private interests in South friends. In 1971 Graeme Bignell moved to Adelaide when he Australia in the early days. AP Eagers agreed with GD Bignell and Bib bought the Davitt Ford dealership including cars and Nominees Pty Ltd to purchase 3.6 million shares in the publicly Ford Bedford Trucks, which they renamed B S Stillwell Ford listed entity for $14.4 million. Pty Ltd and opened on 1st April 1971. Graeme Bignell, the Dealer Principal, had a 25 per cent interest, while his partner, GD Bignell Nominees was the family company of Adtrans’ friend and financial backer held the remainder. Founder and Chairman, Graeme Bignell. Stillwell Ford quickly became a power house in the South The purchase will be settled on 1 May 2007 by the payment of Australian market, establishing itself as market leader and $3.6 million in cash and 939,131 shares in AP Eagers which will becoming a major player in the state’s new and used car business. lift AP Eagers’ holding in Adtrans to 19.6%. In 1975 Graeme established a standalone Stillwell Trucks And so the Company became the major shareholder in Adtrans. dealership in Adelaide, at Regency Park, to sell the just released Ford Louisville. They subsequently leased land at Milperra in Graeme Bignell’s origins are in Melbourne, and it was there as Sydney (which they later purchased) and started another specialist a young man in the 1960s he worked ﬁrstly for Preston Motors Heavy Truck dealership there in 1979. Stillwell Trucks, Sydney, Ltd selling motor vehicles before moving into management. became the largest retail outlet for heavy trucks in Australia. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 233

Graeme Bignell had assumed full ownership of the Stillwell Ford Notable among the additions in 1990 were the Group’s first group during the late 1970s. venture into the Victorian marketplace with the opening of the Ford Truck Centre in Footscray, the acquisition of the Truck In 1986 Stillwells expanded into Toyota with the purchase of Centre in Sydney which sold International Trucks, later to be Mitcham Toyota which was renamed Graham Cornes Motors, known as Iveco and the opening of Stillwell Daihatsu. During trading as Graham Cornes Toyota. Graeme’s close friend and the balance of the 1990s many dealerships were expanded and leading AFL sports star Graham Cornes, who had worked for in the early 2000s Rebel Ford in Elizabeth, South Australia, and Stillwells for nearly a decade, became a minority shareholder Adrian Brien Group in St Marys were acquired. The Stillwell and Dealer Principal. Ford Commercial Centre was opened in 2003 while their Parts On 13 August 1987 Adtrans Group Limited was listed on the Distribution Warehouse opened in Regency Park in 2004. ASX after it acquired BS Stillwell Ford and its car and truck When Adtrans Group Ltd floated as a public company in 1987 subsidiaries. Shares were floated at 50 cents. At the time with Graeme Bignell as Chairman and Managing Director, of public listing Adtrans had 490 employees and a turnover Company Directors were Bermar (Bib) Sellars Stillwell, of $142.3 million. Chartered Accountant John Pridham and Solicitor Stillwell Ford’s car dealership remained the highest volume Ian Edgley. Long-time Stillwell Chief Financial Officer, Ford dealership in Adelaide and was amongst the 12 largest in Brian Fitzgerald, was given the role of Secretary and Director Australia despite the relatively small Adelaide market. Stillwells of Finance. Stillwell Ford remained the major subsidiary was recognised by Ford Motor Company as one of the most of the Adtrans Group. In the 40 year period from 1971 to successful and profitable dealerships nationally, driven partly 2010 when AP Eagers acquired Adtrans, BS Stillwell Ford/ by five independent used car sites in Adelaide, as well as a large Adtrans had just three Managing Directors - Graeme Bignell parts distribution centre. Stillwell Trucks handled Ford Australia’s 1971-1987, Steve Officer 1987-2003 and Shaun Swift trucks, as well as UD Nissan and DAF Trucks in Adelaide, while 2003-2011. Stability of leadership and loyal executive teams in Sydney they also sold Mitsubishi trucks. Twice in the last were a hallmark of Adtrans in the four decades of success. 15 years BS Stillwell Ford received the Ford Motor Company ‘Australian Ford Dealer of the Year’ award.

Stillwell Ford was one of the top three volume used car selling Ford dealers nationally, an extraordinary achievement from such a small market place. Graeme who had begun his career in used cars at Preston Motors had learnt early the contribution of used cars to the franchise.

Graeme was famous for telling dealers around the country:

You make your money when you buy or trade the car, not when you sell it.

From 1987 to 2004 the company expanded regularly and successfully, either by organic growth or through acquistion, despite the recession of 1990-94 which made trading difﬁcult, Graham Cornes Toyota, 46 Belair Rd, Hawthorn, South Australia, particularly in trucks. acquired by the Adtrans Group in 1986. (Adtrans Archive) 234 A DRIVING FORCE

Graeme was extremely loyal to his staff, many of whom were Corporate dealings are now handled mostly in Brisbane. The proud shareholders in Adtrans. He would often tell shareholders: takeover by AP Eagers was achieved with practically no job losses and few staff changes. Our business is all about people, the people who work for us and the people or customers we work for. In February 2011 Adtrans was split into two separate operating divisions – cars and trucks. Long before it was industry fashionable Stillwell Ford was telephoning customers to ensure they were happy with their The car division, still based in Adelaide, was set up under the purchase experience. Such innovation way back in the 1970s direction of Shaun Swift and former Adtrans Marketing Director, set Stillwells apart from many competitors and preceded David Holst, a 28 year employee. Selling some 15,000 new and Adtrans eventually acquiring both Rebel Ford and Adrian used cars across 27 sites, turning over $480 million and employing Brien Ford which both opened for business on the same day over 500 full time employees, this division of AP Eagers remains as Stillwells back in 1971. the largest car retailer in Adelaide and retains most of its former staff and operations from before the takeover. Martin Ward was appointed a Director of Adtrans in 2007 following AP Eagers’ initial purchase of shares in Adtrans, and by With the acquisition of Adtrans, AP Eagers expanded into trucks, late 2010 AP Eagers acquired the rest of the publicly listed entity. a ﬁeld in which it has a long history. The Eagers themselves, father and son, dealt with the growing demand for commercial vehicles The acquisition of Adtrans shares was seen by AP Eagers’ as horse-drawn wagons made way for the Willys Overland management as a valuable investment in a like-minded vehicle motor trucks and utilities that the founders knew would suit the retail company with quality earnings and solid future prospects. Australian conditions. Then came the formidable array of General Graeme Bignell was a willing seller, mindful of the future of Motors vehicles, when Eagers provided for their customers such his family and his employees. Graeme joined the AP Eagers wonders as Maple Leaf trucks and Chevrolet utilities, or Bedford Board after the takeover was completed but for personal reasons trucks for those who preferred a British make, or the striking resigned within 12 months. Oldsmobiles. The proud boast was that Eagers had ‘a car or truck for every purse and purpose’ and nothing has changed.

Truck operations are in some ways a high risk business heavily aligned with freight which is in turn heavily aligned with the BS Stillwell Ford - economy. However customer loyalty is strong and increasingly the 1 Main North Road movement of goods in Australia is by road, not rail, so trucks are in Medindie Adelaide - March 1987 at big demand, as are those operators who service them. time of Adtrans Public Company Teresa Colliver, Adtrans Company Secretary and Chief Financial prospectus. Ofﬁcer at the time of the takeover by AP Eagers had worked (Adtrans Archive) with Adtrans since she was just 19. Now she heads the ﬁnance management team for the national truck division.

Through Adtrans, the AP Eagers truck stable is now widespread and extensive. The Adtrans Truck Centre at Laverton North, Melbourne, authorised dealers of Iveco Trucks Australia, provides a vast array of new trucks. The Iveco brand also specialises in light commercial vehicles, with Daily vans and, perhaps for the ‘grey nomads’ of the chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 235

Baby Boomer generation, there is the Daily Motor Home. ‘Seize the Daily’ the Adtrans website instructs its users. Used trucks, trucks of many makes, ﬁnance for trucks as well as heavy vehicle ﬁnancing to make it all possible. And of course for truck parts and truck service the huge range is there for all makes of trucks and trailers. The truck sales specialist is there with advice on all fronts.

Adtrans Hino, formerly Camden Hino, at Camden New South Wales, and acquired by Adtrans in 2008, operates at various locations in and around Sydney.

Adtrans Used Trucks Brisbane commenced operations on 1 May 2012, under the management of John Defries, then with over 10 years’ experience with Adtrans. Customers were assured:

His determination to help his customers makes him the perfect candidate for birthing this new entity. John started out as a diesel mechanic, worked into management and then to sales. His vast knowledge and dedication are testament to his success.

The Adtrans tradition sits well with that of AP Eagers.

Daimler Trucks, in Adelaide, acquired in 2011 and relocated to Adtrans’ Regency Park base, provides its customers with all truck, bus and light commercial vehicle needs, through its three Graeme Bignell, Chairman of Adtrans Austrans Truck Dealership at Footscray specialist dealerships. Mercedes Benz trucks, Fuso trucks, people Group Limited, the leading Adelaide (now operating as Whitehorse Truck movers, SUVs, all the large but not-quite-commercial vehicles so motor vehicle entity. Since 2010 it has and Bus). The Ford era was 1995 sought after in recent years are available. operated under the AP Eagers banner. and the Sterling was 1999. Graeme Bignell served as a Director Daimler Trucks also operates at Mt Gambier, in South Australia: of AP Eagers from February 2011 to October 2011. (Adtrans archive) Big or small, whatever part you need, our network of dealers allows us to get what you need - fast. Our specialist diesel mechanics at Daimler Trucks Mount Gambier can assist with all truck, trailer and bus problems. From regular servicing to major national truck division will be managed by David Reid, a overhauls, we look after it all. 20 year Adtrans executive with an in-depth knowledge of truck Daimler Trucks Mount Gambier is also an authorised Detroit retailing nationally. Diesel dealership. Daimler Trucks Mildura, at Mildura in With multi-franchise specialist truck dealerships now in Victoria, provides specialist sales, parts and service for Fuso, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney (plus used trucks in Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Trucks. Brisbane) and satellite truck divisions in a number of rural Following the takeover by AP Eagers, the group’s national and regional centres, the truck division remains focused on truck division has continued to grow. With the retirement of expansion opportunities and is poised to be a big part of long term truck executive Henry Eggers in March 2013 the AP Eagers’ future strategy. 236 A DRIVING FORCE

CURRENT MANAGEMENT The Group’s Queensland and Northern Territory Dealer Principals meet once a month at AP Eagers, where despite inevitable conﬂict A strong, robust and well-qualified management team is at the of opinions from time to time the mood is one of consensus and heart of AP Eagers but for an operation of this size its numbers never overbearing. Meetings are open and sharing where every are surprisingly small. The team is led by a lean executive matter can be addressed. Never have they been a waste of time including Keith Thornton (General Manager – Queensland in19 years says Jim Keegan. and Northern Territory), Stephen Best (Chief Financial Officer) and Michael Raywood (Group Human Resources Manager) Stephen Best grew up in Rockhampton, and has a Bachelor in addition to Martin Ward (Chief Executive Officer) and of Business degree, a Graduate Diploma in Management and Denis Stark (General Counsel & Company Secretary). a Diploma in Company Directorship. He is a Fellow of the Despite the Global Financial Crisis and other economic woes Institute of Public Accountants and a member of the Australian that have beset the world in the last few years, the management Institute of Company Directors. After 16 years with MIM team has been able to cope exceptionally well. Holdings Limited, where he was from 2001 to 2003 General Manager – Finance and Commercial, he was then Chief The Group also has a very decentralized operational structure, Financial Officer for Xstrata Copper Australia. He was with where Dealer Principals run their own operations. Consolidated Rutile Limited from 2004 to 2007 as Chief Jim Keegan, at Southside Toyota with 150 employees is the Financial Officer and Company Secretary, and then his lifelong longest serving Dealer Principal at AP Eagers and is in the interest in cars led him to AP Eagers in 2007. fortunate position of having worked in every aspect of the motor business. He started his apprenticeship at Active Motors, He is responsible for the Group’s Accounting, Taxation, the General Motors dealer in Roma. In 1973 he became Internal Audit, Treasury and Information Technology a Field Service Representative at General Motors Holden, functions. He sees the Company as having an acquisition Acacia Ridge and started to look after Eagers in both Brisbane model that works, one that has been demonstrably successful and Toowoomba. Alan Piper was looking for a general manager with very few failures. for Southside Toyota. Jim Keegan was introduced to Alan General Manager – Queensland and Northern Territory by Toyota Motor Company. In 1994 he started work with is Sydney-born Keith Thornton, who grew up in Brisbane Alan Piper at Southside Toyota, and together they worked on the design of the four dealerships, though by then Alan’s health and completed a Bachelor of Economics at the University was declining, and Ken Macdonald had taken over. of Queensland in 1995. In the early stage of his career working with Toyota Australia and Honda Australia he Strong support from the corporate side of the Company, learned of AP Eagers and had been able to develop a strong which he attributes largely to what he calls ‘the Alan Piper business relationship with Ken Macdonald, who was then DNA’, gives independence and full responsibility to the Group Operations Manager and later Managing Director. Dealer Principal and finds that such confidence, support and In 2002, keen to have a career with a large, Queensland- accountability goes both ways. based company with headquarters in Brisbane, and one Southside Toyota has been in the Toyota Motor Company Top that did things well, Keith Thornton joined AP Eagers as 20 Dealer list for 13 out of 19 years and is well recognised as General Manager of Southside Honda and Land Rover, and the market leader in their prime market area. Jim Keegan is in 2004, he became General Manager of Austral Honda the longest-serving Toyota Dealership General Manager/Dealer and Austral Volkswagen at Newstead. The next year he Principal in the Brisbane Metropolitan area. was appointed General Manager Operations – Vehicles. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 237

Michael Raywood, Group Human Stephen Best, Chief Financial Ofﬁcer Keith Thornton, General Manager – Resources Manager, joined the Group in since October 2007. He says the Queensland & Northern Territory November 2006. HR policy development, Company has “an acquisition model since June 2007. “The appeal of leadership development, internal training, that works.” AP Eagers is the autonomy given performance development reviews, to the Dealer Principals.” succession planning and the all important pay ofﬁce are some of his responsibilities.

For him much of the appeal of AP Eagers is the autonomy given sure that best practice in HR management is adopted across to the Dealer Principals, who are expected to be completely all dealerships. A Future Leaders Program is now available to responsible for all key decisions. The Alan Piper model. potential General Managers, as is a Leadership Program for all Departmental Managers. Michael Raywood was born and educated in the United Kingdom where he acquired a BSc (Econ) Hons in Face to face training for staff is favoured, with outside expertise Management Studies from Cardiff University and has brought in as needed. Courses introduced recently include postgraduate qualifications in Human Resources. He Financial Awareness and another entitled Managing Workplace worked for H J Heinz, Glaxo Pharmaceuticals and was HR Behaviour. An annual Employee Survey, an initiative of Director for Churchill Insurance in the UK. After moving Martin Ward, invites feedback, anonymously, and helps to keep to Australia he spent three and a half years as Group HR the General Managers in tune with their staff. Education of the Manager with Toyota Tsusho South Pacific Holdings before workforce is encouraged and some 750 staff in 2012 have taken joining the group in November 2006. It is his job to make up the offer of a Diploma of Management course. 238 A DRIVING FORCE

Early in 2011 Brisbane and much of Queensland were virtually swamped by heavy rain. AP Eagers was undeterred, a few days after the worst of the deluge declaring ‘We’re Open for Business’ and offering their sincere condolences to all ﬂood affected Queenslanders. With Martin Ward overseas and other senior executives on Christmas holidays, decision making became the responsibility of Keith Thornton and Stephen Best, and they sought advice from Ben Macdonald and Nick Politis, both of whom had experience of Brisbane in the ﬂoods of 1974.

This time, unlike 1974, there was two days’ warning, and as the whole flood was ‘modelled’ and suburban flood maps were available, in Brisbane at least there was a good idea of just where the water would go and what were the risk-prone areas, depending on how high the river rose. Online communication proved invaluable. With the help of flood updates by email to all dealerships, more than 1500 cars were moved away from flooding areas in 48 hours, despite the double dilemma for the Dealership Floodwaters in Evelyn Street, Newstead. January 2011. (Keith Thornton photo) Principals of finding enough drivers and enough flood-free destinations and despite concerns for the welfare of their own families. Keith Thornton describes cars being parked wherever possible: in local streets, at dealerships that remained dry, and at local schools that were on high ground

Keith Thornton has vivid memories:

It was made very clear that all the Porsches needed to be moved as, although not shown as a site likely to flood on the government websites, the site had gone under in 1974. By this time I was running out of places to move cars. Most high and dry sites we owned were full and we were running out of alternatives. I was looking through all the sites we had available that could fit more cars and a recently taken lease at Sumner Park for a service facility was pretty much empty and provided undercover parking for a number of cars. Not really knowing Sumner Park, its proximity to the River or its incredibly flood prone nature, for a fleeting moment I thought we had solved the problem of where to park the Porsches! Luckily, and I don’t how or why, but sense prevailed

Looking past AP Eagers towards With such a well-coordinated effort and we parked them elsewhere. I dodged a career ending decision! Bowen Hills during the 2011 ﬂood. more than 1,500 cars were successfully (Keith Thornton photo) relocated and only a few cars were We moved all cars out of the showrooms (Land Rover, Jaguar and damaged. One just slid off a hoist. Volvo) below the corporate ofﬁce. While unlikely to be hit we did (Keith Thornton photo) not want to take a chance on these expensive cars. At this time we chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 239

had sold our old facility Metro Ford on the low side of Ann and McLachlan Streets. There was an upcoming classic car show in which the new owners of the site, Laing O’Rourke were involved. When they saw our emptied showrooms a couple of metres higher up the road they asked if they could move a couple of cars they had stored under the old Metro Ford into our Land Rover showroom. Next thing our very expensive Range Rovers were replaced with a “priceless” Ferrari F40 and Jaguar XJ220. Luckily the showroom stayed dry.

Afterwards a generous offer was made to the public to assist with ﬂood relief: no repayments for up to six months on all new and demonstration vehicles. Whilst the Group’s premises had sustained limited damage, a major disaster had been averted. All dealership operations were back in full operation within days and in due course 20 vehicles were made available to various charities to help the ﬂood relief effort. Kloster BMW, Hunter Street, Newcastle West, 2013. Business continued and in 2011 the acquisition of Daimler Trucks in Adelaide consolidated AP Eagers trucking operations there. They also acquired Eblen Motors in Adelaide, representing three car brands, to complement the existing Adtrans operations in South Australia. Eblen Motors operated in Glenelg, Kingswood and Angaston, representing Subaru in all locations and Suzuki and Isuzu Ute in Angaston.

The financial side of such a big entity is considerable and as other businesses have been acquired they have largely conformed to the AP Eagers model. All accounts are consolidated weekly, and the process becomes increasingly sophisticated as reports go out to the financial institutions, to the Directors, and to the many Franchisors. Dinesh Khagram is Group Financial Accountant, his experience dating back to the days of Eagers Holdings before the merger with AP Group. Having started with Eagers in 1985 he has experienced career opportunity within the

Group as the Company has expanded and became responsible Doug Hose, Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, MTA Insurance (far left) meeting in 2013 with AP Eagers’ for the Group’s statutory and tax accounting requirements. In Finance & Insurance management team, Jason Masri, Cluster Manager Eagers/Austral; Tony Taylor, recent years David Rowbotham has been Group Management General Manager Financial Services South Australian Cars; Michael Voysey, Financial Services Accountant, and is now Group Accountant. Operations Manager; Rick Tierney, Business Manager Surfers City; Andrew Bunce, General Manager Financial Services; Robert Black, Cluster Manager Torque Group; Aaron McMahon, General Manager Financial Services is Andrew Bunce who has been Cluster Manager Southside Group, Mark Ferguson, Business Manager Caloundra City Autos; Ace Shuster, Cluster Manager Bill Buckle Autos; Peter Murphy, Finance & Insurance Development with AP Eagers since 1 December 2009, after spending 2 ½ years in Manager. Absent: Karen Tattersall, General Manager Finance & Insurance Kloster Group; and a similar role with Automotive Holdings Group Limited in Perth. Claudia Goodwin, General Sales Manager Car Care. 240 A DRIVING FORCE

His time there coincided with their expansion in the eastern states and it was his role to grow their Finance and Insurance performance, as he has with AP Eagers. His extensive experience in the automotive industry includes 12 ½ years with General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) working in Asia, the United Kingdom and Australia where he became the National Sales and Marketing Manager.

Born in the United Kingdom, in Guilford, he came to Australia in 1986 and spent time working with dealerships in Melbourne in their Finance and Insurance divisions. During his time with GMAC he familiarised himself with the concepts and necessity of floorplan financing of dealers’ vehicle stock and the provision of finance and insurance to their customers - concepts that were introduced largely by Ford and General Motors in the aftermath of the 1929 Depression. The Finance and Insurance sector has grown over time to include warranties and after sale car care products.

Since his arrival at AP Eagers Andrew Bunce has reviewed every facet of the Group’s Finance, Insurance and Car Care operations, the plans, the people and the processes, and he now sees himself as the leader of a successful team, optimising performance. The Board and the executive team he ﬁnds extremely supportive of Receiving one of many “Service Excellence Awards” in 2001, from left, Danny King himself and his role: ‘No Manager could ask for more’ he says. (Service Manager, Torque Ford Redcliffe, currently Service Manager, Metro Ford); Wade Herrmann (Service Manager Torque Ford Strathpine, currently General Manager He manages a small and stable team, just 160 people out of nearly Fixed Operations, AP Eagers); Geoff Polites (President, Ford Motor Company Australia); Brian Duggan (Service Manager, Torque Ford Caboolture); and Sam Pagano 3,000 employees, now organised into smaller, self-managed teams (Group Accountant, Metro-Torque). under 10 managers across Australia, who keep in touch through regular regional meetings and reviews. Finance and Insurance has become, to say the least, an increasingly successful operation.

What was for years the ever-expanding Parts and Service division of the Company is now classed as Fixed Operations, under the care of General Manager Wade Herrmann. Brisbane-born, into a north side family who until the 1929 Depression ran cattle in what is now suburban Chermside. A park in the area bears the Herrmann family name to commemorate their role in settling the area. Wade was drawn to motor vehicles and qualiﬁed as a motor mechanic in addition to studying engineering at Queensland University of Technology. Serving his apprenticeship with the Brisbane City Council he became familiar with a wide range of vehicles. He then travelled north to the Gulf country where he chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 241

managed a small construction company involved in building roads and bridges. He travelled extensively, developing the skills to manage people, and this he ﬁnds stands him in good stead in his present role with the Group.

Returning to Brisbane with his wife and children, he started employment at Lloyd Ford in Strathpine and within a short period of time was appointed as Service Manager. That business was acquired by Torque Ford which was in turn acquired by AP Eagers.

In an endeavour to improve the return from ﬁxed operations, AP Eagers advertised nationally for a Group Fixed Operations Manager, ultimately promoting Wade Herrmann to the position.

Fixed Operations, employing about 60 per cent of AP Eagers’ workforce, provides a stable part of the Company’s income, largely unaffected by forces such as fashion or economic uncertainty that govern the sale of new vehicles. Demand does however ﬂuctuate, increasing in wet weather when collisions escalate. ‘Trade goes up when it’s wet’, says Wade Herrmann.

Meeting manufacturers’ expectations is another part of the challenge, as is having in stock what the customer wants. AP Eagers has key people to rely on in all its distribution centres both regional and interstate, some having been with AP Eagers’ Fixed Operations managers at the North American Dealers’ the Company for many years. And, as has been the case for a Association (NADA) Conference in the United States in 2013. century, AP Eagers prides itself on its highly-skilled technicians, and values its employees. Throughout the Group there is a sense of ownership and loyalty, a pride in belonging.

As a reward for their efforts, a group of top performing Fixed Operations managers (and some partners) attended the North American Dealers Association (NADA) 2013 Conference in Orlando, Florida, USA. The trip, hosted by Wade, was extremely successful with all managers gaining a lot from the conference to bring back to the Group and at the same time having a lot of fun!

It (the trip to the NADA Conference) has been a fantastic opportunity to get to know each other. AP Eagers has a feel about it which makes the company unique to work for. Once again to afﬁrm the thanks for the experience we have shared together. It ran like clockwork, food and sights were superb. NADA and the dealer visits gave me things to take home and think about, said Mike Dwyer, Eagers Mazda Parts Manager. 242 A DRIVING FORCE

Daniel Ryan, M Bus, FAICD, on David Cowper, BCom, FCA, Peter Henley FAIM, a Director Timothy Crommelin, BCom, FSIA, the Board of AP Eagers since appointed a Director on since December 2006. He is FSLE, appointed a Director in January 2010 and a Director 1 July 2012. Well known a Director of Thorn Group Ltd February 2011. He is Executive and Chief Executive Officer since throughout the motor vehicle and Deputy Chairman of MTQ Chairman of RBS Morgans Ltd; July 2006 of W.F.M. Motors industry he served as Insurance Services Limited. a Director of Senex Energy Ltd, Pty Ltd, A.P. Eagers Limited’s chairman of the motor industry He has had a distinguished Brisbane Lions Foundation, largest shareholder. He has specialisation unit of Horwath career in financial services Australian Cancer Research brought a wealth of experience Chartered Accountants for six with AGC Ltd, Nissan Finance Foundation and Abney Hotels in the automotive, transport, years. At Horwath and after Corporation, GE Money Motor Ltd; Chairman of the Advisory manufacturing and retail industries. they merged with Deloitte he Solutions, GE Money Australia, Board of the Australian National specialised in audit, finance and New Zealand, Singapore and University Investment Committee; tax advice to public and large Malaysia. He was invited to and a Member of the University of private companies in the motor join the AP Eagers Board for Queensland Senate. He has broad industry, and was the lead audit his knowledge and experience in knowledge of corporate finance, risk partner for AP Eagers for seven automotive finance and insurance. management and acquisitions and years until 2008. over 40 years’ experience in the stockbroking and property industry.

Wade Herrmann is proud that all his Fixed Operations Managers of RBS Morgans Limited, is a Queenslander who brings valuable are capable business orientated people able to concentrate on all commercial expertise to the table, with over 40 years experience in aspects of their job including vital cost control. For him it is all about the stockbroking and property world. trust and conﬁdence, ensuring that the service experience is made as Public honours have come. Where in 1963, Eagers Golden Jubilee easy as possible for the customer, while still making a proﬁt. year, Chairman George Ernest Green was knighted, Chairman Two Directors were appointed in February 2011. Graeme Bignell Benjamin Wickham Macdonald was made a Member of the Order was the inaugural Executive Chairman of Adtrans Group Limited of Australia on Australia Day 2007. This was for ‘service to business at its formation in 1987. Tim Crommelin, Executive Chairman and commerce through executive roles with a range of investment, chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 243

banking and agricultural organisations, and to the community For Martin Ward this is sweet success, and for the team on which as a supporter of charitable and sporting bodies’, and on he has relied implicitly for advice and the attention to detail at 20 October 2009 he was presented with the Australian Institute every move. His role is to see the big picture, and to deal with of Company Directors (AICD) Queensland Gold Medal Award. the ‘big ticket’ issues and he counts himself as fortunate to have had a Board, and a comparatively small one, who have allowed Two years later, in September 2011, AP Eagers was inducted into him a certain amount of freedom in working out the best steps the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame, a joint partnership to take. He in turn trusts his managers. between the QUT Business School, and the State Library of There is constant change as opportunity arises, witnessed Queensland Foundation. Colin Chesher, Alan Robertson and by the announcement on 9 July 2012 of the purchase by Peter Scurﬁeld, long serving AP Eagers Group employees with AP Eagers of a 16.3 per cent stake in Automotive Holdings 140 years combined service, represented all their fellow employees Group Limited, Australia’s largest automotive retailer and at the induction dinner. The award accepted by Chief Executive another company with a strong history. The shares were those of Ofﬁcer, Martin Ward, bore the citation: the Wheatley family, the founding shareholder of Automotive Awarded to A.P. Eagers Limited in recognition of its sustained Holdings, who in turn became the third largest shareholder in success and excellence in motor vehicle retailing and service to AP Eagers. Martin Ward described the move as an investment the community for 100 years. ‘in an industry segment we understand and where we can add significant value’. A big investment, $122 million, with the Earlier that year Martin Ward participated in the 2011 Vinnies press trumpeting: ‘Eagers buys into WA boom’. CEO Sleepout at Brisbane’s Southbank Suncorp Piazza, raising signifcant funds for charity.

Prior to CEO Martin Ward’s arrival at AP Eagers, the executive team had not heard of the term BHAG but in June 2006 he AP Eagers Chief introduced it and set a BHAG for AP Eagers for the next Executive Ofﬁcer Martin Ward with 20 years. BHAG stands for Big Hairy Audacious Goal, and is the award presented defined by Wikipedia as a strategic business statement which is by Her Excellency created to focus an organisation on a single medium-long term Ms Penelope Wensley organisation-wide goal which is audacious, likely to be externally AC, Governor of Queensland, at the questionable, but not internally regarded as impossible. Induction Dinner for the Queensland The term BHAG was proposed by James Collins and Jenny Business Leaders Powers in their 1999 book entitled Build to Last: Successful Hall of Fame in 2011. Habits of Visionary Companies.

Nearly seven years have passed since Martin Ward set down a BHAG for AP Eagers. It was certainly audacious and stretched the imagination of the executive team but the Company’s results over the past seven years have seen the BHAG being met. The Group’s achievements over the past seven years give credence to Martin Ward’s visionary thinking. This augers well for the future of the Company. 244 A DRIVING FORCE

TOP 20 SHAREHOLDERS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2012 Shares %

1. WFM MOTORS PTY LTD 62,811,617 36.80 2. PATTERSON CHENEY INVESTMENTS PTY LTD 12,213,804 7.16 3. VERNON CHARLES WHEATLEY 10,399,364 6.09 4. ALAN PIPER INVESTMENTS (NO1) PTY LTD 6,406,250 3.75 5. MILTON CORPORATION LIMITED 5,658,019 3.31 6. G D BIGNELL NOMINEES PTY LTD 4,796,800 2.81 7. ARGO INVESTMENTS LIMITED 4,232,620 2.48 8. MARTIN WARD 2,788,280 1.63 9. BERNE NO 132 NOMINEES PTY LTD <315738 A/C> 2,370,738 1.39 10. RBC INVESTOR SERVICES AUSTRALIA NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 1,908,188 1.12 11. DIANE COLMAN 1,881,710 1.10 12. GRAEME DAVID BIGNELL 1,343,765 0.79 13. ANZ TRUSTEES LIMITED 1,181,920 0.69 14. HEGFORD PTY LTD 1,146,162 0.67 15. PETER GARY ROBINSON 1,116,455 0.65 16. EAGERS NOMINEES PTY LTD 1,092,915 0.64 17. TREVOR READING 1,073,380 0.63 18. BRYCE MCKERRELL 843,533 0.49 19. NIBLICK PTY LIMITED 818,010 0.48 20. CITICORP NOMINEES PTY LIMITED 770,112 0.45

TOP 20 HOLDERS 124,853,642 73.15

REMAINING HOLDERS 45,832,916 26.85

TOTAL SHARES ON ISSUE 170,686,558 100.00 chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 245

There seems to be a certain fascination about the working At end of Year Employees Shareholders relationship between Martin Ward and Nick Politis, the 2001 1,028 1,280 largest shareholder and automotive industry guru. They work well together and whilst Martin Ward is regularly challenged 2002 1031 1512 he is not intimidated by the other’s powerful position within 2003 1048 1695 the motor industry. Martin is allowed to concentrate on the 2004 1187 1657 bigger picture while his executive team provides valuable input and takes care of the detail. He is comfortable in almost any 2005 1320 1620 environment, which he sees as important in his role. He has 2006 1492 2567 been described as a fully charged battery, and is obviously 2007 1575 3213 competitive by nature. Experience means he can discern almost at once what is right and wrong in a dealership. Being street 2008 2071 3809 smart and full of common sense has helped. 2009 2,017 3,778

A recent initiative is CARZOOS, an online facility for 2010 2,817 4,073 prospective buyers to access a network of used car sales centres. 2011 2917 3,905 Each accredited Carzoos dealership is a part of the AP Eagers 2012 2,981 4,300 Group. The new Carzoos business model is built on three pillars: The Brand, The Beneﬁt and The Experience.

This is how it works. You search on your laptop, phone or tablet. You choose from over 1000 quality used vehicles, and the car is delivered to your nearest Carzoos dealership to view, with no obligation to purchase. You’re offered a great price and the Carzoos Happiness Guarantee, so you love the car or your money back. It’s that simple. No bad outcomes, no regrets, just happy drivers. It’s used car buying you can’t get wrong.

Figures for AP Eagers for late 2012 show that shareholders number 4,300 and there are just under 3,000 employees. There are 325 working in Administration; 914 in Sales; 1,325 in Service and 404 in Parts. The Group is an equal opportunity employer.

Stirring the imagination at the busy intersection of Sandgate and Junction Roads, Clayﬁeld in 2012. 246 A DRIVING FORCE

As Eagers staff look back on the history of the Company, they value its place in the motoring industry, proud of the fact that people trained at Eagers were the mainstay of a large proportion of Queensland’s motor businesses. The AP Eagers Past Employees Association ensures that the camaraderie built up over many years continues. They remember the benevolence shown towards company staff, social clubs in the branches, the Christmas parties, with Christmas trees (‘she-oaks in Mackay’), when every child and grandchild was given a present, and the days when gold watches were given as a reward for long service. General opinion seems to agree that although Sir George and Bill Green were hard men, they believed utterly in the Company, and in its independence, men in control of an organisation built on staff loyalty and cohesion.

Stalwart of the motor industry, Robert Kendall, General Manager Process Improvement at AP Eagers, has seen the car industry evolve since he started his career in 1961. Then there was a deﬁned line between the new and used car dealerships which were separate entities. When a new car was sold the owner’s trade-in vehicle was Senior executives of AP Eagers, 2012. From left disposed of to the nearest used car yard, and from Eagers, Newstead to right: Denis Stark, Stephen Best, Martin Ward, Michael Raywood and Keith Thornton. this was often to Worth’s Used Cars in Fortitude Valley. Waiting lists for new cars were long and ﬁnance plans were unnecessary when outright purchase was the norm.

After a century the Eagers themselves, Edward George Eager and his son Frederic Zina Eager, have all but faded into history. The vehicles of their day are long gone, except for those treasured by members of the veteran and vintage car clubs. Whitey lives on, after various reincarnations. The motoring journal Steering Wheel, brainchild of Edward Eager, has been reborn in digital format, surviving as print media itself is threatened with extinction. Websites and social media spread the news.

Such longevity in the corporate world in Queensland is rare, let alone in the motor industry which is notoriously ﬂighty. AP Eagers has outlasted all the other car ﬁrms that were once household names as early Queensland changed from horses to horse power. Shareholders have received a dividend each year. Ben Macdonald Chairman Benjamin Wickham Macdonald AM. has been in the chair since 1994. chapter eight – AP EAGERS EXPANDS ACROSS AUSTRALIA 247

AP Eagers has approximately 4 per cent of new vehicle sales across the entire Australian motor industry, but as Martin Ward warns:

We’re only as good as our last month’s result.

Because the Company delivers, and delivers well, the manufacturers and distributors are obviously keen to be part of the stable. AP Eagers represents all 12 of the 12 top selling vehicle brands in Australia, 8 of the 9 top-selling luxury car brands in Australia, 29 car brands and 12 bus and truck brands. With 97 dealership locations in Queensland, the Northern Territory, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, AP Eagers is Australia’s second largest motor vehicle retailer. Market capitalization of the Company had risen to $749,314,000 by the time of the centenary on 7 January 2013.

Their core business is as an automotive retailer. AP Eagers takes care never to stray far from that. After a century in the business there is a great responsibility to keep going - forward.

Members of the AP Eagers Board in 2012 from left to right are: Tim Crommelin, Dan Ryan, Martin Ward (Chief Executive Ofﬁcer), Ben Macdonald (Chairman), Nick Politis, David Cowper and Peter Henley.

Ben Macdonald, Chairman of the Board since 1994, and an outstanding ﬁgure in the business community, he has encouraged interstate expansion. (Courier-Mail, 29 May 2010) 248 A DRIVING FORCE

As a leadup to the centenary, AP Eagers General Managers, and their partners, from all over Australia join the Chairman and Directors at the Christmas celebration in 2012.

250 A DRIVING FORCE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

In 1994 Alan Piper, Managing Director of AP Eagers Limited I would like to thank Chairman of the Board, Mr Ben Macdonald, commissioned the State Library of Queensland’s History for sharing his memories of Alan Piper, and the beginning of IResearch Service to write a history of the Company. The project AP Eagers, and for the loan of personal material. Mrs Robyn Piper, was overseen by Mr Dennis Hull, Company Secretary and Chief widow of Alan Piper, has shared stories and material of the early days of AP Group and of AP Eagers. I thank also members of the Financial Ofﬁcer. AP Eagers had already made many of their Board for their support and Mr Martin Ward who has given me historic photographic images available to the library for copying. every assistance possible.

As the delegated historian, I found Alan Piper most enthusiastic Company Secretary and General Counsel Mr Denis Stark has been to proceed, and using the Company’s extensive records and the instrumental in providing information, particularly in relation vast resources of the library, some then microfilmed but none to the Group’s recent dealings, making records freely available, digitised, I prepared a draft manuscript and selected images. facilitating interviews, reading the manuscript at each stage with The John Oxley Library, and in particular Mr Colin Sheehan great dedication, and pushing the project to final completion. and Mr Robert Longhurst, gave encouragement and helpful Thanks are also due to Board member and significant shareholder Mr Nick Politis who clarified many issues, particularly relating advice. Mrs Reina Irma, then Chief Photographer, State Library to his interest and investment in the Company. of Queensland, skilfully copied early material. I have had assistance from the extended Green family since With the illness and untimely death of Alan Piper on 11 April 2000 work started. Bill Green, former Chairman of Eagers Holdings the history project was set aside, to be reinstated in 2010 by Chief Limited, keen for the story to be written, reminisced about Executive Officer, Mr Martin Ward, prompted by the approach the early days of motoring, Fred Eager, the Green family, and of the centenary. Mr Dennis Hull, by then retired, located the the growth of Eagers. I would like to thank his descendants, in material and generously agreed to donate his time to oversee the particular his daughter Mrs Beverly Cruice and his grandson task, of which the scope and period were expanded substantially. Mr Peter Cox for lending rare material. I acknowledge his very great help since the project’s inception, and Mrs Diane Colman, daughter of the late Sir George and am grateful for his meticulous attention to detail and extensive Lady Green, generously lent precious family material and knowledge of the automotive industry. clarified issues. Mrs Joan Green, widow of George Green Jnr acknowledgements 251

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

and a former alternate director, filled in many gaps and Dr Alan Porter lent his pristine copy of the Eagazette, produced books and excellent photographs. Mr David Green Major Bill Bentson (U.S. Army, retired) found wartime answered many questions. material relating to the use of Eagers facilities by the United States military, and The Brisbane Club added further The late June Hamill, niece of Miriam Wippell who information about their president, Fred Eager. The National inherited much of Fred Eager’s property, made many of her Library of Australia allowed the reproduction of Fred Eager’s photographs available. bookplate, and I am grateful to Mr James McCourt and to Mrs Judy Tynan and Mr Brian Corley lent records and wonderful Mrs Joan Green for making available books he once owned. images handed down from their father, former Chairman of Members of the Veteran Car Club helped to identify early images Directors the late Hugh Corley. Mr Keith Bowerman explained and lent material about Whitey and other Overlands. Architect much of the history relating to Eagers in Mackay and Townsville. Mr Tom McKerrell explained the background to some of the Ken Macdonald, who took over as Managing Director from Alan many building projects in which he was involved. There are Piper, added to my knowledge of the merger between Eagers many others, too numerous to name, who have spoken of their and AP Group. Former Managing Director Mr Noel Heywood involvement and so added to the story. agreed to be interviewed and to lend rare items and photographs and shared memories of his long involvement with Eagers. Dealer The current executives of AP Eagers have responded graciously Principals Ms Janelle Wojtowicz and Mr Jim Keegan shared to requests for interviews, and for facts and photographs. insights into current operations. Executive Assistant Ms Stacey Henschell and Administration Receptionist Ms Kaitlyn Scott have found me space to work in With regard to recent acquisitions, Mr Graeme Bignell and and have made me welcome. Ms Teresa Colliver were particularly helpful about the formation and subsequent history of Adtrans, and thanks Finally I would like to thank Mrs Sue Bracewell of Bracewell are due as well to Mr Shaun Swift and Mr David Holst. Typesetting for her input, and the talented design team from Mr Bill Buckle made available material about the history of Prodigy Plus who have transformed a manuscript and copious Buckle Motors and sent early photographs. Mr Daniel Kemp, images into a centenary history. Group Marketing Manager of Kloster Group helped with their early history and current achievements. 252 A DRIVING FORCE

BIBLIOGRAPHY

BOOKS PERIODICALS AND NEWSPAPERS A Biographical Record of Queensland Women, Brisbane, AP Eagers Limited: Annual Reports Webb, Elliot & Co, 1939 Age, (Brisbane) Davis, T and Kennedy, E, The Holden Heritage 1948-1995, Australian Financial Review Public Relations Department GMHA, 6th edition, 1995 Bulletin (Sydney) Catholic Advocate (Brisbane) Dorney, Muriel, An Adventurous Honeymoon, Brisbane, Read Press, 1928 Construction Magazine, (Brisbane) 1915 Kerr, John D, Notes on Queensland Railways, Brisbane, 1966 Courier (Brisbane) Queenslanders as we see ‘em, Brisbane, Newspaper Cartoonists’ Association Courier-Mail (Brisbane) of Queensland, 1916 Daily Mail (Brisbane) Savage, J Russell, A Guest of the Emperor, Brisbane, Boolarong Press, 1995 Daily Mercury (Mackay) Daily Standard (Brisbane) MANUSCRIPT, ARCHIVAL AND Eagazette, Journal of the Eagers Recreation Club UNPUBLISHED MATERIAL Eagers Holdings Limited: Annual Reports Gympie Times AP Eagers Limited: Minute books, Chairman’s Addresses Maryborough Chronicle ‘AP Group Limited: a Queensland motor story’, AP Group, c.1990 Northern Star (Lismore) Corley, Hugh, untitled and undated reminiscences, Brisbane, Steering Wheel, Brisbane, Steering Wheel Pub. Co., 1915- typescript held AP Eagers Telegraph (Brisbane) The Road Ahead, Brisbane, Royal Automobile Club of Queensland Eagers Holdings Limited: Minute Books; Attendance Books Toowoomba Chronicle Earnshaw, John, ‘George Richard Charles Green’, obituary, 1991 Townsville Daily Bulletin RACQ National Veteran Car Tour, Toowoomba, Queensland, Trustees Quarterly Review, Brisbane, Queensland Trustees Ltd Souvenir Booklet, 2005 Truth (Brisbane) Webb, Wallace G, ‘Report by retiring General Service Manager of Queenslander (Brisbane) EG Eager & Son Pty Ltd,’ Brisbane, 1957, copy held AP Eagers PHOTOGRAPHS Photographs have been sourced from AP Eagers; National Library of Australia; State Library of Queensland, John Oxley Library; the Veteran Car Club of Queensland; and from private sources.

State Library of Queensland negative numbers are appended to captions where relevant. index 253

INDEX

Please note that page numbers in bold type Augathella 23, 96 Bennett, L.J. 114 refer to illustrations and photograph entries. Austral Group 194-195 Bentley 72, 194, 197, 202, 204, 206 Austral Honda 207 Bentley, Harry 72 Adams, B. 82 Austral Honda, Fortitude Valley 194, 200, 205 Best, Stephen 236-7, 237, 238, 246 Adavale 22 Austral Land Rover 205 BHAG 243 Addison, G.H.M. 86 Austral Motors, Newstead 194, 202 Bignell, Graeme 232-4, 235, 242 Adler (car) 26 Austral Porsche 206, 215 Bill Buckle Auto Group 229-31 Adrian Brien Ford 234 Austral 200 Bird, H. 134 Adrian Brien Group 233 Austral Volvo 206, 220 Bird, Mr 105 Adtrans Group 232-235, 233, 239, 242 Austral VW 220 Birtles, Francis 40 Adtrans Hino 235 Australian Vehicle Company see AVCO Black, Robert 239 Adtrans Truck Centre 234 Austrans Truck Dealership 235 Blackall 213 Adtrans Used Trucks 235 Auto Group (AGL) 207, 210, 220, 221 Blackman, C.A. 114, 142 AGL see Auto Group Automobile Club of Qld (ACQ) 8, 43, 46, 48 Blackman, F.A. 114, 134, 142 AGM attendance book 223 Automotive Holdings Group 212, 243 Blake, J. 82 Ahern, T. 25, 41 AVCO 144, 145, 149-50, 160, 176, 177 Blinco, A.W. 82 Aitken, Denis 214, 219, 217 Ayr 73, 81, 82 BMW/Mini 226 Alan Piper Motors 194 Bode, F.W. 5 Alfred Shaw’s bulk stores 6 Badger, J.S. 8, 41 Boonah 104, 164 Allan & Stark Drive-in Shopping Centre 159 Baker, M.L. 114 Bostock, L. 169 Allchurch, F. 108 Ball, Brian 181, 184, 192, 193, 197 Boulia 82 Allworth Trading Company 180, 183 Banks, C. 111 Bowen 81, 82 Althea (cyclone) 172, 172 Barcaldine 52 Bowerman 131, 167, 167, 168, 169, 172, 175, 178 American troops 120 Barnes, C. 27 Boyce, Graham 73, 81, 82 Amos, D’Arcy (Darcy) 72, 82, 98, 102, 103, Barnes, C.M 27, 40 Boyd, David 179 108-09, 116 Barnes, Mr 49 Brabham, Sir Jack, 230 Amos, Mrs D’Arcy 108-09 Barrett, George 13, 15 Bradford H.C. 82 Anderson, A. 25, 32 Barrett, Lionel 13 Braillard, J.G. 49 Anderson, Graham, Dr 131 Barry, Percy 25 Brendale 215, 217, 218, 220 Anderson, Mrs 25 Barton, H.A.L. 114 Brewer, Barry 178 Andrews, S.R. 114 BASCO 127, 137, 164 Bridge Toyota, Darwin 218, 221 Angaston 239 Bathurst 231 Bridge Toyota, Palmerston 218 Aorangi (ship) 3 Bayada, F. 111 Brisbane Automotive Service Company see BASCO AP Eagers 198, 200, 208, 212, 215, 216, Bayside Honda/Kia 221 Brisbane City Jaguar 220 217, 222, 247 Beal, A.E. 9 Brisbane Club, The 50, 120, 181 AP Group 188, 194, 196 Beale, Ronald 45 Brisbane Motor Auctions, Bowen Hills 194, 202 Appleyard, A. 111 Beamish, T.R. 41 Brisbane Motor Auctions, Eagle Farm 221 Armidale 48, Beaudesert 82 Brook, R. 82 Armstrong, John 169, 170, 171, 175, 177-78, 178, Bedford 84-85, 87, 91, 92, 94, 107, 130, 143, Brown, S. 111 183, 183, 184, 184, 188, 192, 193, 198 150, 232, 234 Browne, A. 98 Arnold, V.J. 114 Beebe, W.W. 82 Browning, E.H. 114 Aston, F. 134 Beenleigh 82 BS Stillwell Ford 232, 232 Atherton 81, 82 Begg, Russell 129 Buchanan, V.A. 114 Audi 2, 200, 202, 204, 222, 229 Beirne, T.C. 9 Buckle Motors 229, 229 Audi/Citroën, Kawana Waters 222, 229 Bell, J.J. 142 Buckle, William F. (Bill Snr) 229, 229, 230, 231 254 A DRIVING FORCE

Buckle, William G. 229, 229 Corley, Hugh (father) 61, 68, 72, 82, 86, 98, 114, Eagazette (journal) 102, 102, 103, 110, 113 Buckle, William J. (Bill Jnr) 229, 230, 231 121, 127, 128, 131, 142, 143, 145, 148, 150, 161, Eager, Audrey 54, 70, 88, 95-96, 99, 100, 104, 105, Buick 2, 77, 80, 85, 86 168, 169, 170, 170, 180, 180, 184, 202-3, 203 106, 112, 113, 120, 120, 136, 138 Bunce, Andrew 239, 239-40 Corley, Hugh (son) 128 Eager, Carolyn McMaken 26 Bundaberg 73, 83 Corley, Joyce (Webster) 127 Eager, Edward George 2, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 32, Burch, Arthur 53 Cornwall, E.V. 82 34, 35 Burrup, L. 111 Cory, Trevor 198 Eager, Edward McMaken 26, 136, 138, 139, 140, 140 Burstall, Jean 95, 95 Cossey, Mr 49 Eager, Frederic Zina 5, 5, 7, 8, 25, 28, 29, 30, 32, Butterworth, C. 134 Cottage Car Company, The 200 33, 34, 35, 40, 41, 41, 43, 45, 46, 53, 53, 71, 74, Butterworth, Mr 49 Craigston 136, 138 88, 89, 93, 97, 101, 103, 104, 105, 112, 120, 120, Byrne, M. 134 Courtenay, M.J. 142 136-8, 137 Cowen, Denzil 103, 131, 131, 133, 134, 135, 161 Eager, Frederick (Fritz) 140 Cairns 174 Cowper, David 242, 247 Eager, Jane 139, 140, 184, 188 Caloundra City Autos 221 Cox, Ron 164 Eager, Medora (Dora) 3, 3, 8, 32, 34 Cannon, B.J. 134 Crane, G. 111 Eagers Finance 165, 166, 174 Carrington, W.J. 114 Creedon, Danny 144, 169, 178 Eagers Holden 200-2, 203-5, 215, 220 CARZOOS 245 Crichton, Neville 201 Eagers Holdings 147-9, 179, 188, 196-7 Cavanaugh, Harry 104, 129, 136, 143, 144 Croft, Stafford 164, 170 Eagers Kedron 203 Centenary (2013) 247, 248 Crommelin, Timothy 242, 242, 247 Eagers Marine Department 73 Chambers McNab & McNab 7 Crooks, Richard 112, 113 Eagers Mazda 205, 220 Chandler, Craig 193, 208 Crows Nest 175, 183 Eagers Parts & Accessories 187 Chandler, J.M. 114 Cunnamulla 82 Eagers Parts & Equipment 165, 167, 174 Chapman, J. 82, 83, 103 Eagers Recreation Club 102-3, 108, 110, 111 Charleville 4, 22-3, 73 Daily (van) 235 Eagers Retail 77, 87, 94, 120, 145, 149, 150, 174, 183 Chevrolet 79, 84, 85, 87, 97, 149, 160 Daimler Trucks 235 Eagers Service 149-50, 174 Chevrolet Cup 97 Daly, Jack 169 Eagers Staff Ball 108-109, 109 Christensen, C. 111 Daniel, G. 81, 82 Eagers Used Cars 118, 149-50, 174, 187 Chrystal, Robert 98, 103, 133, 141, 145 Daum, Earl 145 Eagers Wholesale 174 Cichowski, Grace 142, 145 Davenport, Paul 226 Eagle Farm 215 Citroën 69 Davis, William 8, 142 Easton, Peter 169 City Automotive Group 217, 221 Day, George 9, 17 Eblen Motors 239 City Mitsubishi 217, 221 Defries, John 235 Ebrington, A. 111, 164 City Peugeot 217, 221 Delaforce, F. 134 Edgley, Ian 233 City Suburu 217, 220, 221, 221 Denham. M. 114 Edkins, Boyd 30, 40, 45 Clay, N. 82 Dennis, W. 39 Effey, W. 27 Clayton, A.H. 82 Dever, P.F. 82 Eggers, Henry 235 Clough, N. 82 Diamond Jubilee (1973) 174 Elvery, W. 28 Clough, Norman 77, 98 Dibella, S. 134 Emery, Ronald James 225-6, 226 Clowes, E.J. 110, 142 Dillon, Joe 133 Evans, R. 98 Clowes, J. 111 Dix, E.J. 18 Evers Bros. 3, 4, 5 Clowes, John 103, 169, 170, 171, 175, 177, 179, 184 Dobson, B. 82 Evers, F. 49, 49 Coachcraft 194, 210, 213 Dodds, F. 134 Evers, H.H. 5 Coakes, J. 98 Dodwell, A.V. 27, 49, 49 Ezzy, D.W. 31 Coar, G. 82 Dollar, Robert 58, 72 Cobden, R. 41, 46, 80 Donnelly, E. 134 Fallon, J.J. 134 Cochrane, M. 114 Dorney, Jack 69, 69, 82 Faulkner, J. 82 Codd, M.I. 114 Dorney, Muriel 69, 69 Ferguson, Mark 239 Collier, N. 111 Drapes, L.R. 142 Firth, L. 82 Collier, R.G. (Bob) 164, 167, 169, 170, 171, 175 Drummond, K.G. 114 Flemming, W. 111 Colliver, Teresa 234 Duggan, Brian 240 Fontaine, R.W. 15 Colman, Diane 193 Dunlop, C. 83 Ford Motor Company see Ford Colman, George 189, 193, 196, 197, 198, 208 Dunn, Peter 227, 228 Ford Sales Company of Australia see Ford Cook, Cecil, Dr 52 Dunn, R.J. 156 Ford Spare Parts 215 Cook, L.B. 83 Dutton, Robert 32, 39, 40, 40, 41, 46, 47, 47, 49 Ford 193, 200, 210, 213, 214, 215, 219, 226, 227 Coolangatta 26, 28, 29 E.G. Eager & Son 6, 7, 12, 15, 33, 38, 39, 47, 50, 58, Fortitude Valley 77, 87, 91, 108, 145, 194, 200, 202, Coopers & Lybrand 198 71, 77, 86, 149, 196 204, 205, 206, 215, 220 index 255

Fraser, H. 169 Grimmer, R.G. 114 Ireland, R. 134 Frazer, Mr 73 Grimmer, R.H. 81, 114, 142 Isles Love 58, 149 Fredricks, C.H. 142 Groch, F.H. 58 Isuzu 239 Freightliner (truck) 235 Grout, Wally 159 Iveco 233-4 Fuso (truck) 235 Grube, H. 81, 82 Gympie 73, 74 Jack, T. 82 G.S. Hutton & Macfarlane 7, 97, 118, 198 Jackson, L.A. 18, 30 Ganley, Dorothy 103, 108 Hadgraft, Marlay 9, 98, 103, 180 Jaguar 214, 215, 221 Ganly, T. 142 Haﬂinger 171 Jarrett, A. 111 Gannon, Pat 131, 161, 166, 169, 175 Hall, Chas. E. 25 Jewell, A. 30 Garven, Tom 169 Hall, E. 25 Jones, A.E. 49 General Motors Holden 77-80, 116, 129, 146, Hall, F. 83 Jones, Alderman A.J. 113 149, 160, 183, 200 Hall, Hon. T.M. 49 Jones, Des 198, 208 George, D.D. 134 Halsey, Admiral 50 George, Doug 169 Hardie, Sir David 9, 11, 14 KASSCO 193, 195 Giles, J. 103 Harrington, Albert 30 Keegan, Jim 220, 236 Glendower (house) 34, 34 Hartnett Motor Company 141 Kelly, H. 111 Godwin, Raymund 143 Hawkins, F. 114 Kendall, Robert 246 Godwin, Richard 81, 82, 85, 97, 98, 114, 131 Heitman, Reg 107, 107 Keneally, A. 81 Goggomobil Dart 229, 231 Henley, Peter 242, 247 Kenyon, R.H. 82 Gold, D.E. 156 Henschell, Stacey 217 Keogh, J.R. 142 Golden Anniversary (1963) 162-4 Herrmann, Wade 240-1, 240 Khagram, Dinesh 198, 198, 239 Heydon-Graham, A. 81 Golden Jubilee (2007) 223, 242 Kia 203, 215, 217 Heydon-Graham, W. 81 Kiama II (ship) 143 Goondiwindi 73 Heywood, Noel 141, 167-8, 169, 170, 171, 175, Kidd, Alexander 195, 198, 205, 214, 214 Graham Cornes Motors 233 175, 178, 183, 183, 188, 189 Kilroe, Miss 27 Graham Cornes Toyota 233, 233 Hidden Valley Ford 221 King, Danny 240 Graham, A. 82 Hill-Climbing 22, 25, 30, 32, 39, 42 Kinging, W.A.L. 114 Graham, B.D. 13 Hobson, A.R. 82 Kings Auto Spares and Service Co see KASSCO Gray, Roy 214 Hockings, David 178 Kingston, J. 169 Greasley, A.J. 142 Hogan, G.W. 83 Kirkland, J. 134 Great Wall 221 Hogg, Archie 58 Kloster Motor Group 226 Green, Lady Aisla 106, 112, 136, 165, 181 Holden 2, 129, 129, 144, 150-2, 160, 176, 200, Kloster, Christian 226 Green, Alexandra 189 215, 217, 221 Kloster, Geoffrey 226 Green, Bill see Green, Wilfred Hollis, J. 103 Kloster, Harley 226, 227 Green, Caroline 189 Holst, David 234 Kloster, Harry 226 Green, Catherine 189 Honda 200, 204, 215, 220, 221, 226 Kloster, Michael 226 Green, Clodagh 112 Horen, Maurice 7, 9, 32, 53, 54 Klosters 227, 228 Green, Diane 112 Horen, R. 134 Knight, A.H. 49 Green, Sir George (father) 32, 39, 41, 47, 48, 49-50, Horsham House 58 Kruger, M. 82 50, 54, 55, 57, 82, 83, 93, 95, 103, 104, 111, 112, Hose, Doug 239 Kyme, Mr 49 122, 136, 138, 143, 146, 148, 150, 161, 164-5, Hosking, Brian 202 164-5, 168, 169, 177, 177, 181, 181, 193 Howard, James 9 Lamond, M. 81 Green, George (son) 112, 113, 165, 167, 168, 169, Howarth Sydney Partnership 215 Lamont, Herb 175, 178 170, 171, 177, 179, 184, 184, 185, 188, 188, 189 Hughenden 126 Land Rover 2, 204, 214, 215, 220, 221 Green, Jabez 189 Hull, Dennis 184, 198, 198, 205, 208, 213, 223, 224 Lang, R. 169 Green, Joan 188-91, 197 Hummer 221 Lang, R.S. 142, 168 Green, Lawrence 72, 72, 82, 91, 92, 95, 97, 98, 102, Hunter Valley 226 Lang, Reg 169, 180 103, 109, 136, 138, 141, 189 Hupmobile 35 Lang, W. 82 Green, Nancy 74, 181 Hurst, J.E.S. 142 Lawton, A.K. 82 Green, Susannah 189 Hutchinson, F. 142 Leach Holden 215 Green, Thomas 156, 156, 180, 189 Hutchinson, Mr 19 Lee-Lewis, J. 103 Green, Wilfred (Bill) 49, 52, 55, 68, 68, 74, 136, 138, Hyundai 226 Leet, J. 83 140-1, 140, 146, 148, 150, 168, 169, 171, 177, Leslie, Alex 88 180, 181, 181, 189, 189 Ikin, William 59, 60, 73 Letz Rent-a-Car System 174 Grice, J.H. 25 International Trucks 233 Lewis, L.D. 142, 180 Grimmer, R. 82 Ireland, F.R. 81, 82 Lewis, Lance 81 256 A DRIVING FORCE

Lexus, Darwin 222 Mercedes-Benz (truck) 235 Pagano, Sam 240 Lilley, A.V. 82 Metro Ford, Fortitude Valley 215, 220 Parker, C.P. 114 Lindenberg, H. 82 Metro Ford, Spring Hill 214 Parker, G. 134 Lochran, Mr 73 Metro/Torque Ford, Eagle Farm 214 Parminter, W. 83 Logan, C. 98 Metrotorque Ford 214 Patten, C. 98 Long, Barney 81 MG Rover 215, 217 Paulsen, Ernie 164 Long, M. 134 Miller, R. 111 Pearson, A.W. 114 Longreach 5, 52, 52 Mitsubishi 217, 220, 221, 226 Penny, Mr 5 Lough, S.R. 11, 27, 40, 40, 46 Moar, A.J. 142 Pestorius, A. 98 Lound, W.B. 114 Mooloolaba 104 Peugeot 217, 220 Love, Antony 201, 201, 205, 219 Moran, J. 103 Picking, D.W. 103 Love, Athol 81 Morgan, J. 82 Pike, J. 82 Lynch, J.A. 114 Morris, C.T. 27 Pilbeam, Mayor Rex 170 Morris, George 164, 169 Piper, Alan 2, 188, 193, 194, 194, 195, 197, 198, Macdonald, Benjamin 195, 197-198, 201, 201, 202, Morris. G.J. 114 205, 206, 206, 208-10, 212, 213 205, 213, 243, 246, 246, 247 Morris, J. 103, 111 Piper, Frankie 193 Macdonald, Kenneth 195, 195, 198, 199, 205, 207, Morris, J.A. 142 Piper, Joanne 193 208, 208, 213, 216, 219 Morris, J.C. 81, 114 Piper, Nicole 193 MacDonald, H. 98 Morris, L.T.S. 49, 49 Piper, Robyn 193, 194 Macfarlane, J.J. 7 Morrow, C. 111 Pivetta, Ann 205 MacGill, J.B. 81 Morrow, J.W. 111 Polites, Geoff 240 Mackay 126, 127, 149-50, 152-5, 177 Motors Ltd see Motors Pty Ltd Politis, Nicholas 208, 213-4, 213, 245, 247 Mackay, W.S. 40, 40 Pontiac 2, 85, 87, 94 Motors Pty Ltd 77, 79, 83, 87, 149-50, 157, Madsen, V. 134 Porsche 200, 202, 204, 215, 215, 216, 220 158, 177, 200 Madsen, V.J. 114, 134 Powers, E. 82 Mount Clear 55 Mahoney, E. 83 Pratt, R. 82 Mount Glorious 25 Mahoney, Pat 167 Premier Automotive Group 215 Mount Gravatt 220 Mango Hill 217 Premier Properties 174 Mt Coot-tha 30, 42, 43 Maple Leaf Trucks 84, 128 PricewaterhouseCoopers 215 MTQ Insurance 207, 210, 221 Mark, C. 111 Pridham, John 233 Mulcahy, Thomas 58, 77, 77, 80 Marks, Dr 9 Prince Owa (whippet) 62, 62 Mullett, H. 142 Martin, F. 82, 142 Pritchard & Company 12 Mulligan, W.J. 142 Martin, Frank 141 Purtell, D.P. 134 Munro, Donald 186, 186 Maryborough 12, 15, 73, 83, 126, 164 Mason, Albert 86 Murphy, Peter 239 Ralston, B. 103 Mason, C. Post 22-3 Murray, Hon. John, 11 Rance, Bill 179 Masri, Jason 239 Mynott, Brian 183 Rapson, Harry 53 Mayes, Ron 170 Ratten, N. 83 Mazda 205, 208, 214, 215 National Automotive Service Co (NASCO) 145, 146 Raywood, Michael 236-7, 237, 246 McCabe, K. 111 Neagle, B. 82 Reading, Trevor 227, 228 McCafferty, Brian 186, 192, 193, 197, 201 Neilsen, Bruce 169, 178, 179 Rebel Ford 233, 234 McConachie, J. 134 Nelson, W.P. 114 Rebuilt cars 13, 16 McDonald, A.D. 134 Newcastle 226 Reddacliff, Trevor 200 McDonald, H.L. 114 Newstead 2, 58, 86, 97, 121-2, 143, 175, 200, 202, Reid, David 235 McDonald, R. 81 203, 216, 220, 238 Reid, T. 111 McDougall, L. 114 Nicholls, Arch 26 Reid, Tom 169 McGovern, J. 82 Nissan 226 Reith, J. 111 McGregor, Neil 169, 175, 177, 179 Nixon, W.J. 114 Roberts, James 8 McGuire, Alderman J.T. 9 North Lakes 217, 220 Robinson, A. 82 McKean, C. 98 Nundah Motors 158-60, 161, 177 Robinson, Peter 227, 228 McKeon, C. 111 Nundah 127, 145 Rockhampton 4, 13, 15, 170, 170, 195 McKerrell, Tom 200, 216 Roebuck, E.V. 114 McLean, R.L. 81, 82 O’Sullivan, W.J. 56 Rogers, R. 111, 134 McMahon, Aaron 239 Ofﬁcer, Steve 233 Rolls Royce 206 McManus, A. 142 Ogilvie, George 47, 54, 58 Rolls Royce/Bentley 202, 204 McNab, Dudley Alexander 8 Olsen, C. 134 Ronald, H. 82 McNeill, Alick 43 Overland (car) 2, 3, 5, 5, 10, 23, 28, 56, 60 Rooney, M.K.D. 114 index 257

Ross, H.B. 83 Strathpine Toyota 214 Voller, W.C. 9, 17 Ross, H.V. 114 Stuart Motor Group 221 Volvo 205, 214, 215, 221 Rowbotham, David 239 Suburu 217, 229 Voysey, Michael 239 Russell, M.D. 82 Surfers City Holden 221 Ryan, Daniel 242, 247 Suzuki 200, 204, 205, 221, 226 Walsh, A.D. 11 Swartz, Ron 164, 167, 167, 168, 169, 171, 175, 175 Walshe, J.V. 142 Saab 221 Swift, Shaun 233, 228 War effort 116-124, 120 Samuel Allen and Sons 146 Swirgsden, P. 114 Ward, Len 55 Sanders, A. 83 Ward, Martin 219, 219-20, 222, 236, 243, 245, Sanders, W. 83 Tamborine 28 246, 247 Savage, Russell 195, 198, 199, 201 Tangalooma (ship) 99-101, 99-101, 120, 138 Warne, Wally 169 Seat (car) 202, 204 Taylor, Tony 239 Warringa (house) 131, 131 Shareholders, current top 20 244 Teerman, W. 82 Warwick 31, 83 Sharp, Wayne 227, 228 Thallon, F. 82 Webb, A.J. 81, 82 Shay, B. 82 Thompson, E.J. 142 Webb, B. 83 Sherlock, E. 142 Thompson, G. 82 Webb, E. 83 Sherriff, M.B. 114 Thompson, J. 82 Webb, W.G. 142 Shuster, Ace 239 Thornton, Keith 219, 236-7, 237, 238, 246 Webb, Wallace 46, 48, 70-1, 73, 82, 88, 103, Silver Anniversary (1982) 180 Tibbett, Lawrence 101, 101 119, 180 Silverlock, C. 134 Tierney, Rick 239 Wendt, M. 103, 142 Simmill, E.A. 81 Tomes, L.B. 81, 82 Wensley, Governor Penelope, 243 Slessor, A. 82 Tomkinson, H.L. 83, 142 Westpoint Suburu, Moorooka 217 Smith, E. 81 Tooth, E.M. 49, 49 Whatmore, G.W. 27 Smith, P.T. 27 Toowong Motors 165, 177 Wheatley family 243 Snell, Mr 49 Toowoomba 4, 41, 76, 126, 149-50, 155-7, 186, 200 Whippet (Overland) 2, 61-9, 62-9, 72 Snell, P.W. 82 Torque Ford, Brendale 218, 220 White, A.J. 32, 41, 47, 54 Soorley, Lord Mayor Jim 200, 205 Torque Ford, Caboolture 214 White, Albert J. 25, 39 Southport 30, 48, 193 Torque Ford, North Lakes 218, 220 White, Cliff 81 Southside Auto Auctions, Stones Corner 194 Torque Ford, Redcliffe 193-4, 214, 217 White, J. 25 Southside Ford, 194, 194, 200, 202, 207, 214, 220 Torque Ford, Strathpine 214, 217 White, Jack 26 Southside Honda, Buranda 194, 207, 218, 220 Torque Honda, North Lakes 218, 220, 221 White, Max 186 Southside Land Rover 207, 220 Torque Kia 220 Whitey (Overland) 27, 28, 29, 30, 33, 39, 41, 42, Southside Toyota 194-5, 200, 202, 207, 218, 220, 236 Torque Toyota, Brendale 220 45, 45, 46, 70, 246 Southside Volvo 220 Torque Toyota, North Lakes 220 Wighton, Lisa 205 Spicer’s Gap 25, 26 Torque Toyota, Redcliffe 214, 217 Wiley, A.L. 142 Spirit of Ecstasy 206 Townson, L. 82 Williams, D. 81 Springﬁeld, M. 27 Townsville 4, 55, 59, 60, 72, 81, 83, 85-6, 131, Williamson, Bob 231 Springwood 193 132-5, 146, 149-50, 161, 167, 174, 178, 182, Willys Export Corporation 78 Sproule, M.F. 114 183, 186 Willys Knight 2, 50, 70, 77, 80 Stafford, R. 111 Toyota Group 214 Willys Utility Truck 12, 12 Stanger, R.W. 81 Toyota 215, 217, 218, 229 Willys Overland 2, 3, 5, 7, 56, 70 Stansﬁeld, Warwick 216 Trevaskes, Graham 164 Wilson, E.M. 114 Stanton, Geoff 133 Trevaskes, John 8, 3, 103, 141 Wilson, E.W. 82 Stark, Denis 225, 225, 236, 246 Trevethan, W.M. 27 Winn, R. 114 Staunton, K.P. 114 Trotter, William 7 Winton 4 Steering Wheel (journal) 11, 13, 246 Wippell, Miriam (Midge) 88, 136, 138, 184 Stevens, George 25 United Equipment 174, 177 Withy, B. 82, 103 Stevens, H.C. 142 United Motors 86, 137 Wojtowicz, Janelle 217, 218 Stevens, S. 103 Usher, D. 83 Wollomai (ship) 113 Stillwell Daihatsu 233 Woolloongabba 220 Stillwell Ford Commercial Centre 233 Valley (Brisbane) see Fortitude Valley Worth, Audrey 53-4, 138, 41 Stillwell Ford 232, 234 Vauxhall 2, 30, 40, 74, 77, 87, 89, 133, 150 Stillwell Trucks 232 Vauxhall Bedford 130, 143 Yates, Jim 169 Stillwell, Bermar (Bib) 232, 233 Verra, S.T. 114 Stock, C.W. 114 Vickers, R. 82 Strand Motor Company 59, 60 Vickers, Robert 142, 164 Stratford, W.H.C. 114 Volkswagen 2, 200, 202, 204, 207, 215, 226, 229 AP EAGERS ACKNOWLEDGES THE ONGOING SUPPORT GIVEN BY THE FOLLOWING ORGANISATIONS AND IN PARTICULAR THEIR SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL SUPPORT TOWARDS THE CELEBRATION OF OUR CENTENARY.