Volume 172 APRIL 2005

Helen Till, Steve Westmacott & Chris Westmacott at the All British Day at Uraidla Oval 13 February 2005

====== Journals, April 2005======AUSTIN 7 CLUB OF S.A. INC

2005 COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT: TREVOR CLERKE, 39 Baker Street, Birkenhead 5015 Ph: 8449 1375 (H) email address: [email protected]

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

TREASURER: LYN CLERKE, 39 Baker Street, Birkenhead 5015 Ph: 8449 1375 (H) email address: [email protected]

COMPETITION SEC DAVID WINFIELD, 1 Malabu Drive West Beach 5024 & CAMS Delegate: Ph 8355 6661 (H) Mob: 0403 316 718 email address: [email protected]

REGISTRAR & GEOFF STEPHENS, 198 St Bernards Road, Hectorville 5073 LOG BOOKS: Ph 8365 1343 (H) Mob: 0416 226 055 email address: [email protected]

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

TOURING &FHMC GRAHAM BUESNEL, 12 Sutherland Ave, Semaphore Pk 5019 DELEGATE: Ph 8449 4764 (H) Mob: 0438 794 979 email address: [email protected]

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

Delegate to the Committee & SANJAY KUMAR, 27 Morgan Ave Seaview Downs 5049 Convenor of SA Rotors Group: Ph 8358 1880 (H) Mob: 0411 772 768 email address: [email protected]

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

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Competition Sub-Committee: Dave Winfield, Fran Williams, Bronwen Williamson, Barry Frost, Michael McMillan & Ian Neale.

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All correspondence to: The Secretary AUSTIN 7 CLUBROOMS: 262 TAPLEYS HILL ROAD, SEATON 5023 The Austin 7 Club SA Internet address is: www.austin7clubsa.com.au Internet address for SA Rotors Group: www.sarotors.org

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Austin 7

Journals

Volume 172 April 2005

PRESIDENT‟S PRATTLE

Hi Ho everybody, by the time you read this, Easter would have gone in all but a memory of the time you spent with your families and celebration of the significance of Easter. To those that are away due to health or wandering afar, we send you our thoughts and best wishes and look forward to meeting again.

The club has already put on many an exciting event. On April 10th we are going back to our grass roots and having a Sprint and Motorkhana day at the Mitsubishi Motor test track at Tailem Bend. Come along in your vehicle and either participate or help out.

As we live in a busy world, we someday will be challenged with the problem of someone who may be having a heart attack, an Asthma attack or where assisted breathing and heart massage may be required. This is commonly known as CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary – Resuscitation).

For the benefit of all members the Austin 7 Club has arranged a First Aid Day on Saturday 16 April 2005. This First Aid Day has been organised for all members to receive “FREE” general information and training and will be run by the Life Saving Association. Commencing at 12noon with a free barbecue at the clubrooms, at 1245 the hands on training session will commence and that will be finalised with a cuppa and friendship at around 3:00pm. Lyn and I are looking forward to your attendance. Some of us have partners, older friends, parents and young grand children who may benefit from you learning the basics. See you all on the day.

Some of the long term things to think about in the touring programme for the year are the Meningie run, the Border run to Mount Gambier and the Cavalcade of Cars day on Yorke Peninsula. As a result of the change to the Cup Weekend from May to March 2006, we have to think about the PADARC Rally and accommodation etc. for 2006.

Your members telephone directory is included with this magazine. Please use it to keep in touch with all your friends in the club. So until we meet again, be happy, enjoy life and look forward to tomorrow.

Until we meet again, Good Austineering. Trevor Clerke President. ------3 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======

GEOFF STEPHENS‟ Car Audio Services Pty Ltd 217 Main North Road Sefton Park S.A. 5083

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

Phone: 8344 1488 Mobile: 0416 226 055

Special Discounts to Austin 7 Club members

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COMING EVENTS

10 April: Tailem Bend ¼ mile sprints and Motorkhana.

11 April: Monthly Club meeting at the Clubrooms starts 8pm sharp.

15-17 April: Races Mallala, Australian Motor Racing Series.

16 April: First Aid Day. The Club is holding a first aid day at the Clubrooms. Commencing at 12 noon with a barbecue, the training session starts at 12.30pm finishing about 3pm with afternoon tea. All members welcome to participate.

17 April: Austin 7 Kids and Grandkids Run, starts at Freemont Park Elizabeth at 10am. Morning tea at the Emazing Emus, One Tree Hill, followed by lunch at The Rocking Horse, Gumeracha.

17 April: Rock „N‟ Roll Rendezvous at National Motor Museum, Birdwood Mill.

24 April: Modern Regularity & Races at Mallala Motor Sport Park. Amcomm Technologies Trophy Round 2.

25 April: Austin 7 Club Enthusiasts night at the Clubrooms commencing at 7.30pm with A7 spares shed open from 7pm.

26 April: Leisure Run to a venue that will tempt your tastebuds.

30 April/1 May: The Pre War Austin Seven Run to the Barossa Valley. David Grear has organised this event for pre war Austin Sevens only. Meeting at the Clubrooms on Saturday morning from 9am before departing at 10am for Two Wells, Mallala and Tanunda. At last count, 29 Austins were booked for the run.

9 May: Monthly Club meeting at the Clubrooms starts at 8pm sharp. A7 spares shed opens about 7pm.

14 May: SA Rotors Meeting and Mini Cruise

15 May: 14th Cavalcade of Cars and Motor Cycles. Entry forms available for this biennial event held in the Copper Triangle on the Sunday of the Adelaide Cup weekend. As usual there should be a good roll up of members‟ vehicles early on the Sunday, this year we are not arranging any overnight accommodation at Moonta Bay so an early departure ex Bolivar will be arranged. Contact Graham Buesnel for an entry form.

17 May: Leisure Run to a venue guaranteed to be a gastronomic delight.

22 May: Austin 7 Club Day Run

23 May: Austin 7 Club Enthusiasts night at the Clubrooms commencing at 7.30pm with A7 spares shed open from 7pm.

27 May: Quarterly luncheon, to the Torrens Arms Hotel at Mitcham, commences 12noon. Contact Marie Drage on 8251 2637 or Barbara Grear on 8293 4052 if going.

28 May: SA Rotors night cruise. ------5 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======

Barb‟s Lakeview Bed & Breakfast

29 Lakeview Avenue West Lakes SA 5021

Tel: 08 8447 1420 Mobile: 0410 609 820 or 0414 708 669

Email: [email protected] Website: bed-and-breakfast.net.au

Tranquil lakefront location Close to Adelaide. You won’t believe you are in the suburbs!  Private large 3-room air conditioned suite (2 bedrooms)  Self-contained hosted, serviced daily  Own entrance  Double Spa bath, Toiletries  Kitchenette, Microwave, Fridge  TV, Video, CD, Radio  Laundry facilities  BBQ / Courtyard / Gardens  Cooked Gourmet Breakfast  Bottle of Wine, Chocolates & Flowers  Tea, coffee & cookies ‘Our Lakefront’

Relax, enjoy, & stay a while... nestled alongside shimmering waters of a lake in picturesque beachside suburb of West Lakes - 13 kilometres from Adelaide. Just one hour's drive from world famous Barossa Valley - Australia's leading Wine Region. Everything is close by... beaches, sporting venues, (Football Park) Airport. Perfect location for both short & long-term stays. It's hard to believe we are in the middle of a bustling city. Enjoy a walk or day trip, we can offer everything to local & international visitors.

Your Hosts: Barb and Ted Rix

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Annual Registration Day on Yorke Peninsula

Registration day on the 1st of January 2005 was great. It started out a little cool and overcast, but that didn't deter local and near country & some metropolitan members from coming to Port Vincent to have their cars checked and paying their annual subscription. We had about 40 people turn up and between us all we had a lot of fun and laughs. A light lunch was prepared for all with Ruth Perry and Nola Buttfield supplying us with delicious cakes and fruit to finish the meal. Trevor and I would like to thank everyone for coming along and for their company and we hope to see you all next year.

Lyn Clerke

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COMING EVENTS Continued

11 June: SA Rotors Meeting and Mini Cruise.

11/13 June: Annual Austin 7 Club SA & Vic Border Run. The Queen‟s Birthday holiday is again the time for our annual border run, this time organised by us and in his travels David Grear has booked the Jubilee Motor Inn & Diner 180 Jubilee Highway Mt. Gambier as the venue. Costs have been kept at the level of the past few years at $150 per person for the weekend. What you get is two nights accommodation at the motel, two continental breakfasts and two evening meals. Bookings are now open with David Searles. Rooms generally sleep 3 people so depending on bookings there may be a need to fully utilize the accommodation, but every effort will be made to meet members‟ needs.

14 June: Go-Kart Challenge.

20 June: Monthly Club meeting at the Clubrooms starts at 8pm sharp. A7 spares shed opens about 7pm.

21 June: Leisure Run to a venue that will tempt your tastebuds.

26 June: Modern Regularity & Superkart Races at Mallala Motor Sport Park. Amcomm Technologies Trophy Round 3.

27 June: Austin 7 Club Enthusiasts night at the Clubrooms commencing at 7.30pm with A7 spares shed open from 7pm.

3 July: Drift Competition – Mallala

9 July: SA Rotors Meeting and Mini Cruise.

10 July: Hills Luncheon & Run.

11 July: Monthly Club meeting at the Clubrooms starts at 8pm sharp. A7 spares shed opens about 7pm.

17 July: Modern Regularity & Superkart Races at Mallala Motor Sport Park. Amcomm Technologies Trophy Round 4.

1/3 Oct: Meningie Weekend Run, An overnight run to this lakeside town is the venue. Contact Ralph Drage for bookings.

Ralph Drage is also organising a trip via Bright & the Alpine Way to Canberra, returning via the coast from Batemans Bay to Phillip Island, then along the Great Ocean Road. The trip incorporating a lot of points of interest along the way and with a great bunch of like minded people is planned to leave Adelaide Mid April 2006, returning to Adelaide 14 days later. If you haven't already let Ralph know that you would like to participate in this trip, (in your oldie or something a bit later), please let him know by mid this month (April '05).

Enquiries regarding:  SA Rotors meetings and events please contact Sanjay Kumar as SA Rotors Convenor.

 Austin 7 Club day runs to Graham Buesnel as Club Touring Co-ordinator.

 Austin 7 Club Enthusiast Nights to David Grear as A7 Spares Manager.

 Modern Regularity or other motor sport events to Dave Winfield as Competition Secretary ------7 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======

Port Vincent Holiday House.

• 200Km And Just 2 Hours away from Adelaide is a four bedroom holiday house. • It accommodates 8 persons in • 2 Double beds & • 4 Single beds. • All you need to take is your linen, food & whatever you drink. • The town has a Hotel, restaurant, Hardware & 3 General stores. • 2 Petrol Stations & auto-gas is available. • For further information call Trevor or Lyn Clerke on 08 84491375 or • 0428 851 139.

Books/Library The January 2005 issue of the English magazine “The Automobile” has a splendid article on the Sporting Sevens – the Brooklands, Speedy and Nippy. Worth chasing up and probably still available at selected newsagents if you‟re interested. Ron Burchett

------8 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======PAST EVENTS

10 years at the in Melbourne At the inaugural AGP in Adelaide in 1985, the Austin Seven Club timing team began its association with this prestigious event, timing the local categories using our own timing computers but with manual input. By 1996, when the event moved to Melbourne, Australian Dorian automatic timing transmitters had been adopted by all national racing categories and it was planned to set up the Dorian system in Melbourne. Unfortunately, International politics within the sport prevented these being used at Albert Park, and from the first meeting there, F1 AMB transponders (which operate differently from Dorian) were brought in and used for all local races, with our (reduced in number) crew assisting the F1 timekeepers.

This arrangement continued until this year when the Dorian system was at long last OK‟d for local events and A7 timekeepers were again in control of the local races, providing the same service to teams as at Mallala and Clipsal.

Here are some observations on the F1 part of the meeting.

2005 F1 rule changes, designed to slow the cars down and reduce (?) costs to the teams Engines must now last for two race meetings; if an engine change is needed before the race, then the car drops 10 spots on the starting grid from its qualifying position. Wings - front are now 150 mm above the track instead of 100 mm, while rear are 150 mm closer to the engine. The under body diffuser is now no higher than 125 mm above the ground. An estimated loss of 20-25 % aerodynamic efficiency results, but the engineers expect to regain this during the year. Tyres used in the final qualifying session must last for the whole race as well. Qualifying was still one flying lap but in two sessions, on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, with both aggregated to give the final result.

Did they work? In practice on Friday, McLaren Mercedes test driver Pedro de la Rosa set the fastest lap of 1-25.376, compared with the previous best of 1-24.408. In the race, Renault driver Fernando Alonso set the fastest lap of 1-25.683 compared with the record of 1- 24.125, so the answer is YES, they have been slowed down. BAR , who withdrew both cars from the race with one lap to go, tested the engine rule, as the DNF allows them to install new engines for Malaysia, the next event, which is likely to be much hotter than Melbourne. Some numbers A Wednesday promotion in the streets of Melbourne, which involved V8 Supercars and the 2004 Williams Renault F1 car driven by Antonio Pizzonia, attracted a crowd estimated at 200,000, which was greater than an AFL Grand Final or Melbourne Cup parade. Attendances: Thursday was free admission day, celebrating 10 years of the event, and drew the largest Thursday crowd ever – 77,400; Friday – 82,300; Saturday – 91,700 and Sunday 118 200 for a total attendance of 369 600, compared with 2004 total of 360 900. The average speed of the A7 that won the first AGP, held at Phillip Island in 1928 and run on dirt roads, was 90.5 kph; this year’s winning speed, for Giancarlo Fisichella’s Renault, was 215.2 kph. The 2004 average was 219 kph for Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari.

------9 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======PAST EVENTS

The following email was received at the track on Thursday.

“Ferrari fires pit crew”. The Ferrari F1 team fired their entire pit crew yesterday. The announcement followed Ferrari’s decision to take advantage of the Australian government’s youth opportunity scheme to employ people from Frankston. The decision to hire them was brought on by a recent documentary on how unemployed youths from the Frankston area were able to remove a set of car wheels in less than 6 seconds without proper equipment, whereas Ferrari’s crew can only do it in 18 seconds with millions of euros worth of high-tech equipment. As most races are won or lost in the pits, Ferrari now has an advantage over every team. However Ferrari may have got more than they bargained for. At the first practice session, the Frankston crew successfully changed the tyres in less than 6 seconds and then within 12 seconds they had re-sprayed, re-badged and sold the vehicle to the McLaren team for a slab of VB, a kilogram of speed and some photos of Montoya’s girlfriend in the shower.

A closing thought We’ve all seen the first aid cars around and on the circuit - BUT is there any such thing as second or third aid??

Barry Frost

A few scenes from the Grand Prix courtesy of Barry.

------10 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======PAST EVENTS

Up to the Power of the Past 2005, Sunday 6 March. Observations by Johnno Johnson.

The Austin 7 people and cars I saw at the Mt Barker Oval included: Mike & Mary Osborne – Alvis TA21 Drophead Coupe Jim Sewell – Morris Major Elite Ron & Joy O‟Connell – Hudson 8 Coupe – AHMRC entry Laurie & Sandy O‟Connell – Hudson Terraplane Johnno Johnson - . Austin 7 Ruby Sports Tourer John Kennewell – Countryman Doreen Bicknell – Austin A30 Sedan Kaye Butler – Austin A30 Sedan David Searles – Sedan Gerry Lang – Austin 7 Open Road Tourer Bill & Gylnnis Burrows – Austin A40 Sedan Trevor Clerke – 4wd, trailer and parts for sale at swap meet. Bluey Kroschel – Austin A90 Saloon – BVHVC entry John & Nola Buttfield - Ford XW GT Falcon – AHMRC entry And according to the programme Chris Johnson & Fiona Lindsay-Johnson entered a Holden Torana and a Mercedes Benz 300SEL

These were all I saw, hope I didn‟t miss anyone, well it was great to see Mike & Mary and Jim & his wife from Ardrossan down for the day, the Alvis looks great, Mike got it out from the UK, last October.

Well, I left home at 8.15am as did the Kennewells, John said we will catch up with you on the Freeway, well, he did, about 15 kilometres from Mt Barker I saw him coming up behind me as I was climbing up a hill, then it was down hill, away I went, but as much as I could gain going down hill, he would almost catch me again going uphill. “Baby Blue” goes like hell on the flat and going down, but as soon as even the small climb looms, it says “I don‟t like you, change me to 3rd gear, please man.”

We arrived together; I let John go in first, so he would think he was even with me. I heard from Kaye, that she & Doreen kept passing much larger cars all the way up to Mt Barker. Gerry Lang, who had George Bell with him as navigator said “we only changed to 3rd once and that wasn‟t for long” George had a sly grin on his face.

Ron O‟Connell‟s Hudson looked immaculate, so did their hats, as did Laurie‟s Terraplane looked fantastic, think Laurie had enough food for 3 days! David Searles‟ 10 certainly gets around to a lot of places. Bill Burrows A40 goes extremely well and is always very well presented and shines.

Trevor tells me he sold nearly all his things including his little trailer, it would look good behind an Austin 7!

I was told a lot of cars went to the swap meet on the Saturday including Austin 7 members. I thought the prices for parts were very reasonable.

Well, I enjoyed the day very much, also the company. The engine & machinery display was marvellous and most interesting. We think it is hard to keep an Austin 7 going, so how would it be to keep an old machine mobile & working?

I Dunno - Johnno ------11 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======PAST EVENTS

Here are some photographs taken at the Power of the Past.

The lawn mower display. Mike & Mary Osborne‟s Alvis TA21.

A prominent stationary engine. The O‟Connell‟s immaculate hats.

George Bell & Gerry Lang enjoying the day. Another view of a large stationary engine.

This Tractor idling away was bouncing on the spot Ducks “swimming” around in circles

------12 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======PAST EVENTS

CLIPSAL COMMEMORATES 20 YEARS OF THE ADELAIDE CIRCUIT

As this year marked the 20th year since the inaugural Australian Grand Prix in 1985, the SA Motor Sport Board chose to commemorate the occasion by presenting plaques to all those 72 officials who have officiated at all events at the track since that time. At the after race officials‟ party, the recipients were called to the dais in small groups to be presented with their plaque by “Mr F1 GP” Murray Walker, who then posed with them for group photos.

Austin Seven Club members receiving the award were: from the timing team - Bruce Went, Fran Williams, Bob Frost (and Cindy), Barry Frost (and Rae) and Garry Tunn; Ian Alexander (who was a scrutineer for most of the events, but now on the timing team) and Tony Grove (and Glenda), from organisation and commentary.

Now claiming the title of “ best touring car meeting in the World” after record crowds took the total attendance for the four days to 255,600; the opening round of the V8 enjoyed perfect weather and was a resounding success.

Lap records were set in all eight categories: V8s – Marcos Ambrose, Falcon, 1-23.1359; Australian Performance Cars – Chris Alajajian, Subaru WRX Sti, 1-32.6755; Aussie Racing Cars – Colin Sieders, Falcon, 134.8169; V8 Utes – Damien White, Falcon, 1-39.4253; Porsche Carrera Cup – Fabian Coulthard, 1-25.1621; Formula Ford – Daniel Elliott, Van Diemen RF05, 1-28.8959; Historic Touring – Christopher Stilwell, Ford Mustang, 1-34.8320 and V8 Development Series – , Falcon, 1-24.1621.

Consider this contrast in crowd behaviour:  At the AGP, 3-metre high catch fencing topped the pit wall. At the end of the race, the crowd swarmed onto the pit straight and a few attempted to scale this fence – some succeeded before being deposed by security/police.  At Clipsal, the pit wall does not have the high protective fencing. At the end of the race, the crowd also swelled onto the track but in contrast, no one tried to jump over the wall – they all stood against it and watched proceedings.

A segment on CAMS‟ officials licensing scheme was filmed by Channel 10 and aired before the Saturday race. Chief Timekeeper Barry Frost was one of those interviewed, along with a fire marshal, flag marshal, a scrutineer and CAMS‟ CEO Rob Nethercote.

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Supplementary Regulations to Tailem Bend Motorkhana Day 10 April 2005.

1. PROMOTERS & ORGANISERS The Austin 7 Club of S.A. Inc. 262 Tapleys Hill Road, Seaton, S.A. 5023 Phone : (08) 8355 6661 Fax (08) 8355 6386 Email : [email protected]

Clerk of Course Peter Hall

Secretary of Meeting Dave Winfield

Assistant Secretary Daniella Tommasini

Stewards Eric Erickson Daryl Warman

Chief Scrutineer Mel Roach

Chief Timekeeper Bruce Went

VENUE, DATE The Event will be held at the Mitsubishi Test Track, Tailem Bend, on private property, on the 10th April 2005. The Sprint will be run in a North-South Direction. Both Sprint and Motorkhana areas are bitumen-sealed surfaces.

The Event will be a Multi-club Event “Quarter-Mile Sprint” and “Motorkhana” Event, and run under NCR22 of the 2005 CAMS Manual of Motor Sport and the general provisions of ------15 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======Speed Event Standing Regulations (2005 CAMS Manual of Motor Sport) unless otherwise stated.

2. PERMIT The Event will be held under a CAMS Permit 505-1004/04. Public Liability Insurance is effected by the CAMS permit, and Personal Accident Contribution is affected by a CAMS Licence.

3. ENTRY Entries open with the publication of these Regulations and close on Friday 8th April and must be sent to The Austin 7 Club (SA) Inc., 262 Tapleys Hill Road, Seaton, S.A. 5023. All entries, made only on the official A7C of SA “Speed Event Entry Form” and including the prescribed Entry Fee, $45.00 must be received by the Race Secretary of The Austin 7 Club Inc., prior to the closing of entries. If oversubscribed, to effectively operate the event, the acceptance if entries shall be at the sole discretion of the Secretary. Late entries accepted at the discretion of the Secretary of the Meeting.

4. ELIGIBILITY All Entrants must hold a current CAMS Level 2S licence or higher.

5. CANCELLATION & POSTPONEMENT The Organisers reserve the right to abandon or postpone the Event or any portion thereof at any time owing to inclement weather or any other unforeseen circumstances. Refer NCR 59.

6. PROTESTS Competitors are reminded of Part XII of the NCR‟s regarding Protests.

7. CLASSIFICATION OF CARS As per 2005 CAMS Manual, Standard Requirements.

8. TROPHIES Fastest Time in each Class. Trophies will be awarded to all Category Winners.

9. TIMETABLE A timetable incorporating times for gates open, scrutineering, practice, and driver‟s briefing will be published in Further Supplementary Regulations.

10. SCRUTINEERING All competing cars must be presented to the Scrutineers on the “Scrutineering Day” in a ready to compete condition including identification numbers, and bear the Scrutineers „okay‟ before being permitted to practice or compete.

11. PRACTICE Each Entrant will receive one practice run for the event at a time to be notified in the Further Supplementary Regulations.

12. DRIVER‟S BRIEFING A compulsory Driver‟s Briefing will be held at the start of the event.

13. CONDUCT OF STARTS There will be a minimum of two (2) official runs (weather permitting). Starting Order will be that shown on the official program.

14. TIMING All runs will be electronically timed to 0.01 of a second. The Timekeeper will be Judge of Fact whether a time recorded is an “Official Time”. A Re-run may be allowed if it is considered that a false time has been recorded.

------16 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======15. MULTIPLE ENTRIES Multiple entries must be on SEPARATE ENTRY FORMS. Entries may only be entered in one Class and one Category, and must not be transferred without the Steward‟s permission.

16. PITS AND PADDOCKS Competitors Pits and Paddock area is reserved for competing cars only. Speed limit of 10kph in Pits, Paddock and on Return Road applies. All competitors are asked to keep their areas clean and tidy. Alcohol is strictly prohibited from the Pits and Paddock area, and the consumption of alcohol by drivers or crew is prohibited until after the finish of each day of practice and each day of competition of the Event. NCR 145A part VIII. Competing Cars may not leave the Paddock area (except when competing) without the permission of the Clerk of the Course.

17. SAFETY CAMS Speed Event Standing Regulations, point 12.2 (VII). In the interest of driver safety, no competitor will be permitted to practice or compete with exposed limbs. The wearing of Thongs, Sandals, High-Heeled Shoes or apparel of a flammable nature is prohibited. Competitors are reminded that their helmet, goggles, visors and fire extinguishers must comply with the current Standard, see no. 11, of these regulations. Bonnet fastening systems are required as in Rule 1, Schedule H of CAMS General Requirements. A Blue Triangle must be positioned adjacent to the battery, and be visible externally.

18. COMPETITION NUMBERS Driver‟s preferred Numbers will be issued where possible. For closed events temporary neatly applied paint-on numbers are acceptable. The Timekeeper must be able to read them (Right Side of Vehicle).

19. PENALTIES Competitors in breach of the rules will be referred to the stewards.

20. REFUSAL OF ENTRIES The Organisers reserve the right to refuse any entry as per NCR 83.

21. ADVERTISING ON VEHICLES Refer to Schedule “K” in the CAMS 2005 Manual.

22. FURTHER SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS Further Supplementary Regulations may be issued for the Event.

Dave Winfield, Secretary of the Meeting

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We don‟t do this to our Austin 7‟s anymore or do we?

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MODERN REGULARITY AT MALLALA MOTORSPORT PARK 20/02/05 David Grear‟s experiences from the right side of the track fence.

Having competed in historic regularity since 1983 in my 1929 Austin 7 Meteor and with a short sojourn in Dirt Karts to try to curb the need for speed, I decided to try the newest class in club level motor sport - Modern Regularity.

Modern Regularity which is open to sedan type vehicles is not a speed event, and trophies are awarded for the least number of points lost on the day. Points are lost by going faster or slower than your nominated time.

So, before commencing the first question to myself was “what vehicle shall I run?

Geoff Stephens owned a somewhat sad Magna which was for sale with a price tag of $38.00 however to enter modern regularity I would need a beige cardigan rather than a race suit. Perhaps an EA Falcon as per the Saloon Car class, as I could purchase the complete suspension package and I know that it works, however, once you add up the price of the vehicle, suspension, tyres, roll cage and seat (the last two not needed for regularity & I would feel much more comfortable with), but the dollars were starting to add up.

Then along came Big Red a 1983 XE Falcon which some one else had already built and spent lots of money and time on, to race in Improved Production category. It filled all my criteria, it was ready to run, it was a Ford and it was red (red cars go faster.)

I entered the last modern regularity in 2004, the car stopped and turned very well but had an engine misfire at 4400 rpm. The car ran all day and proved that I had made the right decision.

After the November meeting some small improvements were needed new distributor new coil and sump and we were ready to go for February 22nd.

Sunday February 22nd the morning started with great weather a maximum of 26 degrees; last time it was 35 degrees. Mallala weather is either hot and windy or cold and windy today it was perfect.

Practice:- I leave pit lane, all is well after two laps to warm tyres and engine. Then I give it too much throttle coming around clubhouse and the back is out and we pirouette on the start finish line. The distributor works! - no more missing at 4400 i.e. it now revs to 6000r.p.m. Note to driver - do not use it all coming out of clubhouse.

Continue on with practice half way down the back straight a strange noise comes from the car and an unusual vibration - switch off and coast to the flag point at the northern hairpin. I get out and look underneath and find the spin on the previous lap had dislodged the exhaust pipe, which was still firmly supported and just had a gap between the extractors and tail pipe. It was decided to continue practice, as after all, I didn‟t really need an exhaust pipe anyway.

At the conclusion of the practice session I find I have posted the fastest practice time of 1min 28sec.

Event one:- After my Crew Chief, David Garnett reattached the exhaust pipe with the aid of my I.T. Consultant, Adrian Williamson, giving such wise words of advice, such as “have you checked out the Honda NSX website”, we adjusted tyre pressures and refuelled to line up on the dummy grid in position 1.

------18 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======Lap 2 exiting southern hairpin in second gear, a few too many revs (again) and a new noise becomes apparent, however the car still goes, it has oil pressure and the temperature is OK, so I keep driving with no other problems, do my 4 laps and return to the pits.

Upon checking my times they have dropped to 1.30 losing lots of points.

Event two:- start car to make way to the dummy grid and discover a large ticking noise under the bonnet, later to find that no. 8 inlet pushrod is lying in the valley cover and no. 8 exhaust pushrod is now a nice z shape, - end of the day for me! However, Mark Foster in his Ford Escort won a closely fought event two from Geoff Stephens in his Toyota Echo.

Event three:- John Eason in his Mini Cooper S sets a new 4 lap record recording a loss of only 6 points for 4 laps. Not to be outdone in event 4 Geoff Stephens breaks John Eason‟s new record by recording a loss of only 5 points for 4 laps. This means he only varied his lap times by a total of ½ a second over the 4 laps.

There were 12 entries with cars varying from a Mini Cooper S to a XR8 Falcon Ute with every one getting good track time and enjoying them.

Next modern Regularity is on April 20th. The event is run with the Super Karts and provides a great day‟s entertainment.

David Grear

Austin Sevens in Antarctica?

David Searles assures me that there weren‟t any! However, I am sure that in the distant past (and I can‟t find the reference), I read of their use on one of the polar exploration expeditions – perhaps to pull out bogged dogsleds! Can anyone reinforce my dim memory with ant details? Ron Burchett

------19 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======Our experiences in an Austin 7:- Bryant & Unice Lawson and Grandma!

To Nhulunbuy by Austin Seven An invitation in a card last Christmas from friends, Noel and Kath Neil of Katherine, to join their local Vintage Car Club on a rally to Nhulunbuy, (Gove) and a long suppressed desire to visit the area, prompted us to crank old "Grandma" up once again and head West. Diverting from my usual policy of "if it's running O.K. leave it alone!” I decided to give the car some T.L.C. as she had not been touched since our "Around Oz" trip in 1991-2 ('93D - '94A); should have known better!! It finished up engine out and a valve-grind, resulting in the compressions reading exactly the same as they were before I started. The old head gasket went back for the third or fourth time, but I did find two manifold studs which needed replacing.

The next trauma was a slight leak in the original radiator core. I took it to four radiator experts?? "Can't do anything with those honeycomb cores mate... can re-core it for about 200 bucks, but it will take up to two weeks" Fortunately one real tradesman survives here, and he repaired it in about half an hour and charged $10. (Seniors Card!!) Good as new.

New bushes were fitted to the NS King Pin as this wheel spends more time in the scrub than on the road, and two new tyres completed the preparations.

We left late on the morning of Friday June 9th. Enjoying the hospitality of the Pelgraves at their Georgetown Caravan Park, (Don't ever order a large steak there'!), but not before experiencing our first surprise at the aptly named Mt. Surprise - a puncture. Nothing really dramatic about that, but it was in the NSR tyre and the whole car, luggage rack, luggage etc. had to be removed to change wheels. It only took 20 minutes but Unice said there was a distinct blue haze surrounding "Grandma".

The decision to go by this route wasn't one of my better ideas, as the Croydon to Normanton road was really fraught, with long, badly corrugated sections, which aren't "Grandma's" favourite conditions. However, Normanton was reached in plenty of time to erect our tent, have a swim in the Park's thermally heated (supposedly) pool, a couple of "coldies" at the "Purple Pub", and a grilled Barramundi to follow, so we considered it was well worth the effort.

An unusual hazard on the road to Nhulunbuy From Normanton to Mt. Isa was really pleasant driving on excellent road with a nice tail- wind, which is very essential when driving long distances in an overloaded "Seven", but the road to Camoowaeal hasn't improved since we last traversed it. Very narrow, rough and dusty, it can be quite nasty getting off the bitumen when passing, particularly when Road Trains are involved.

Here we also had the unusual experience of a Kamikaze attack by a large eagle. Apparently angered by being disturbed from his meal on one of the hundreds of kangaroo ------20 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======and cattle carcases which litter the road, it dived straight at "Grandma" smashing into the windscreen, knocking one headlight right around, and scratching the bonnet and mudguards. I had one wing in the car with me, (and I'm glad that was all), and powder from its feathers was all over the car. I don't know what it had in mind, but it didn't do it much good either, as it was last seen looking very stunned, trying to get airborne.

We intended to stay at Mataranka again, having enjoyed the thermal pools so much before, but was disappointed as it had been besieged by fruit bats. Literally millions of them, and the noise and stench was unbelievable. It was impossible to walk under the trees (without an umbrella) and the hot pools looked far from inviting. An unsuccessful attempt to remove them by burning which got out of control, has really spoiled the place, so we gave it a miss and pushed on to Katherine.

The next five days were spent shopping for things needed on the trip, and finishing the Katherine Car Club's camping trailer. This is a great idea... about 10 x 4, with sides and a roof which folds down to form full length tables along both sides. The rear doors open out, containing a sink with electric water pump and a 2-burner gas stove. Lights are fitted for cooking at night, and all utensils are neatly stored. The trailer holds the centre pole for a large marquee, which gave ample protection for the whole group on the two wet days we encountered. Three generators, and four large "Engel" fridges were included, and there was even a hot shower. Really roughing it!

On Wednesday June 26th, our convoy left Katherine. Quite a motley collection of vehicles, with only two vintage cars; a 1929 Chev from Melbourne and "Grandma". Apparently there were several last minute cancellations. Some "Classics" and a couple of 4WDs towing trailers containing our heavy baggage and fuel, as there is only one fuel depot in the 800 kms to Nhulunbuy.

The road is dirt, and ranges from good to shocking, with the inevitable corrugations. pot holes, bull dust, and many creek crossings, some of which are deep with very steep approaches, all of which was not improved by the presence of a lot of Army Tanks on manoeuvres, who really made a mess, particularly the creek crossings. Hope they fix them up.

Our first camp was at the Goyder River crossing, about 450 kms from Katherine. We were first on the scene and it was getting late, but watching a 4WD just make it across with the water almost over its bonnet convinced us to wait for the others before our attempt. It was almost dark when they arrived, and an alternative crossing slightly downstream was suggested.

Some of the ladies volunteered to wade across to test the depth which was a nice gesture, but a mention of possible crocodiles in the area produced the fastest pedestrian crossings of the Goyder ever. Several of the cars foundered and had to be towed through, but old "Grandma" struggled through with water pouring through both doors, the only "modification" being a rubber plug fitted over the diff. breather. The luggage trailer went under and all the tents were saturated, but it was a lovely night and we all slept under the stars by a huge camp-fire.

We travelled mainly through Aboriginal Land, and an abundance of wild life can be seen from the road, such as herds of wild brumbies, donkeys, buffalo and kangaroos. Quite a lot of dingos were spotted, and a wonderful selection of bird life.

Nhulunbuy was quite a surprise. Originally named Gove after a war-time airstrip there, it has reverted to its aboriginal name, and no doubt owes its existence to the bauxite mining operations of the Nabalco Mine. Unlike the old mining towns there are nice established

------21 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======houses and gardens, shady green parks, schools, large shopping centres and virtually every sport catered for.

Nabalco has a very strict regeneration programme and there is little evidence of any mining operations. Native trees are planted on the reclaimed area, and local Aborigines collect the seeds to be grown in Nabalco's own Nursery, and many are employed in the mine and treatment plant.

We’ve heard of Austin Seven engined boats, but this is ridiculous.

We did tours with local 4WD operators as private vehicles are prohibited in many areas. Fishing trips were arranged and we spent hours picking big blacklip oysters from the rocks on the lovely deserted beaches to Cape Arnhem.

Never thought I'd see the day when I couldn't tackle another oyster.

Not many Tourists visit here as yet. There is no Caravan Park, as it would be impossible to tow a van over that road, and those we spoke to (and most of the locals) couldn't believe that we actually drove "those old cars" in, thinking we had come by barge from Darwin, like everything else that comes into the town.

Of particular interest to me was the history of the war-time activity on the area. Gove was a busy air-strip in those days with squadrons of "Boomerang" fighters and "Ventura" bombers operating from there. Several aircraft wrecks were there until recently, when some were removed for restoration in Darwin. The remains of a "Beaufort" interested me as I spent most of my flying time on them. I think this one is past redemption though.

After a very enjoyable five days it was time to pack up and return to Katherine. The Goyder River was our first problem, having risen several inches due to the rain, and a quick check showed that "Grandma's" carburettor would be about 3 inches under water, so we gladly joined the queue waiting to be towed over.

------22 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======Intending to refuel at Bulman again, we camped at the Wilton River Crossing just out of the town for an early start, but arriving at the store at 8a.m. Saturday morning we found it closed. The manager had gone fishing! Locating his "offsider" wasn't much help either, because the best he could come up with was a laconic "you'll have to wait until Monday".

Most of us had enough fuel to make it home, but as there was no more available on the way, some had to be satisfied with a "cocktail" of 5 litres of "Grandma's" super, kerosene, and a dash of diesel, and despite some strange pinking noises, all made it safely to Katherine, and a wonderful dinner at the local R.S.L. Club was a nice ending to a great Rally, with a great crowd, and everybody agreed that it was well worth the effort, and suggestions were made to make it a biennial event, so that others could visit this fascinating area in reasonable comfort and safety.

Our return journey was uneventful, but strong head winds slowed us down considerably until we turned east, and the wind almost disappeared.

About 50 kms north of Townsville on the smoothest section of new bitumen highway in Queensland, purring along at 40 mph with a good tail-wind and thinking how peaceful life was, a loud bang, a sudden lurch, and a rapid decrease in forward momentum, brought me quickly out of my reverie and I just managed to pull off the side of the road before stopping altogether.

The main leaf of the NSR spring had broken close to where it was bolted to the chassis, and the broken piece had dropped and dug into the road, causing the shock-absorber links to turn inside out forcing the wheel right up into the mudguard and jamming on the rear brake.

Roadside repairs with a couple of exhaust clamps got us to Ingham where an engineering shop made more substantial repairs so no real drama, although we were pleased it happened where it did - lots of other places on the trip could have presented real problems. Apart from this the car ran perfectly for the 7,000 kms we covered, but what else would you expect - British Craftsmanship mate!!

Unice & Bryant (& "Grandma")

Unice asked me that this article be reproduced in the Austin 7 Journals of their trip to Nhulunbuy in 1995, while they were living in Atherton Queensland. Bryant died in July 2000 and Unice now lives in Goolwa and regularly comes on Club events especially those down that way. Unice still drives “Grandma” to some of them. DS Ed.

Bryant and Unice Lawson with club members arriving in Burra during their round Australia drive in “Grandma” prior to the Nhulunbuy trip.

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EASTER BUNNY RUN Sunday 27 March 2005. Our fellow Austineers, gathered at the Club-rooms for a Special Easter treat. A Mystery run was promised, with the addition of Easter Eggs. Thirty or so of our members couldn‟t resist. A variety of cars, Austins, others and moderns set off from Tapleys Hill Rd, for a day out in the brilliant autumnal sunshine. Before we left, there was a short quiz about Austin 7‟s. Merv & Arthur were the winners of a home-made chocolate “7”. These were individually made, by our run organiser, Deb (Barbara‟s daughter for those who may not have met her). All participants were given a Rally pack, complete with bread for the ducks. A lovely touch, Deb. A few people entered into the Easter spirit by wearing Bunny Ears. Run sheet in hand, we made our way to the outskirts of the city to Colonel Waite Oval in Erindale, here was our morning tea stop. It was a lovely quiet park with shady trees and of course ducks. Out came the tables & chairs, tea & biscuits and Easter eggs. We all spent a peaceful hour, lazing around, chatting, then off to feed the ducks with our bread from the rally pack. Next stop was lunch, we all know the Austin 7 club runs include food & more food. John Kennewell had an interesting episode as we left the park, if you want to know more you‟ll have to ask him. Lunch stop was at The Soldiers Memorial Gardens at Hawthorn, another lovely quiet park that you wouldn‟t know existed. Shady trees, a dry creek for the kids to play in, again a lovely restful time for lunch and a chat to catch up with people you don‟t always see on outings. More Easter eggs (supplied by Deb & Matthew). We also had a visit from a very large fluffy Easter Bunny. He had centre stage of our lunch circle, Star (LARGE poodle of the Rix family) thought he had found a play-mate the same size as himself. Deb had organised a very interesting game. We were all given a SAO biscuit and had to bite it into the shape of an Easter Bunny. Prize was a small stuffed bunny, and the winner was Bill Burrows. Could it have anything to do with his artistic streak, we all know of his paintings. A lovely, relaxing day, thank-you, Deb. Look forward to doing it all again sometime.

Nadia Addyman

We certainly know how to take it easy on these runs.

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The Club has received a message from Peter Trull where he advised that a tablet has been installed at the Hawker Airport in the Flinders Ranges in memory of Betty.

It reads: IN MEMORY ELIZABETH (BETTY) TRULL EVACUATED FROM THIS AIRPORT ON SEPTEMBER 18TH 2003.

BETTY‟S FAMILY AND FRIENDS FROM THE AUSTIN 7 ODYSSEY RUN WISH TO THANK THE HAWKER COMMUNITY AND THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE THROUGH THEIR DONATION TO THE HAWKER AIRPORT LIGHTING FUND.

Besides going on innumerable Austin 7 events all over Australia with Peter, Betty was a driving force behind the Austin 7 catering tent at the annual Winton Historic Races. She made sure that no Austin 7 Club official working at the track went without sustenance.

The Club made this fitting tribute to Betty at the catering tent last May.

------25 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======CLUB CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE:

1947 Saloon with complete spare engine and gearbox in running chassis: - $12,000

Upholstery is in excellent condition, is painted mid blue colour which is in very good condition. Overhead valve model engine, travelled approx 9,000 miles since reconditioning. Tyres are excellent and wheels have been re-rolled and balanced. Brakes reconditioned: Contact Mrs Jean Gilbert 8293 5984.

FOR SALE: - 1956 AUSTIN A90 WESTMINSTER Reg SRD-658 - $3000.00

We entered this car in the 2003 Bay to Birdwood run. It was fully restored about ten years ago and for the most part is in really good condition. We have been using it on an almost daily basis for the past four years, as well as in club and regional rallies. Over the last couple of years we have had the front suspension rebuilt including reconditioned shock absorbers, the speedo is reconditioned with new cable, the water pump is reconditioned and all the hydraulics have been re-sleeved in stainless steel.

I have a number of spares including a gearbox, carburettor, front shockers, light lenses, workshop manual and parts manual, two glove box manuals, about a litre of paint, rocker cover gasket and new oil filters and points.

It doesn‟t need anything done, just hop in and drive it. We do! As for me, I‟m in the middle of another two restorations.

Contact me, Steve Golding, on (08) 87672304 or 0417827243 if you are interested in the car.

FOR SALE: One yellow 1935 Austin 10 Lichfield saloon, the owner, Keith Seidel has a need for garage space and the reliable Austin 10 is now surplus to his requirements, Keith has a quantity of spares to go with the 10 so contact him on 8337 5231.

FOR SALE: Johnno Johnson has his 1937 Austin 7 Sports Tourer for sale. This rare example is in excellent condition with new heavy duty battery, new clutch, new front bumper bar, seat cushions repadded, water temp gauge, all good chrome, new carpet front & rear and comes complete with wicker basket. Contact Johnno on 8277 2148, he is asking $10,990 for this very fine Austin 7.

FOR SALE: One wooden Trailer with Austin 8 wheels, easy to tow, canopy like new, and is registered. Contact Brian Caire on Mob 0407 602 612.

------26 ------======Austin 7 Journals, April 2005======FOR SALE:

Merawyn Hocking has decided to cease work on her 1929 Meteor project and has advised that the replica has had a considerable amount of work carried out including an engine rebuild, spoke wheels checked and spokes replaced, bead blasted and powder coated, has new tyres and tubes, has welded metal framework fitted to body. Most parts are ready to finish car. Timber for floor and seats cut out, has new front floor and firewall cut and pressed in steel. Hardy Spicer tail shaft, headlights, speedo, switch panel, two top bonnet panels off original Meteor and much more contact Merawyn on 8298 1291 too inspect and make an offer.

FOR SALE: 4 NEW Dunlop Gold Seal Tyres 3.50 X 19 $300 The following are used but in very good condition: 2 4.40x19 $25 each Contact Arthur Addyman on 8449 7667

FOR SALE: 1936 Austin 10 Sedan, Holden Body No 700 on historic registration UKA-399, Reconditioned motor (Jeff James) 6,783 miles Gearbox, Brakes & Wheels $7,000 1936 Austin 10 Sedan, Holden Body No 698, 80% complete Good body $1,000 1936 Austin 10 Spare Parts too numerous to list to be sold with or after cars are sold. Contact Barry Dye 8327 2305 (Member Model T Ford Club).

WANTED TO BUY: An email has been received from a Matthew Seton of Morgan stating that he and his father-in-law are about to start looking for an Austin 7 to buy. He goes on to say

“We would like a car that is complete and running not necessarily in concourse condition. We both have some mechanical ability and so a vehicle that needed some work would be fine, I am in the middle of a full restoration of a mark 1 MGB which has so far taken 20 years! So a car that I could drive straight away would be a nice change (for my wife and two small boys especially). The type of Austin 7 we would like would be a four seater to accommodate the small boys. Any response can be sent to [email protected] or to M & J Seton 1 High St Morgan SA 5320.

Late article: Austin 7 Club Enthusiasts night Monday 28 March 2005. On a balmy evening, 27 or so members gathered for the monthly technical night at the clubrooms to hear the latest on members‟ projects and events coming up. Thanks to new member Vic Ward for showing us his acquisition, a 1937 Austin 7 Ruby. Len & Carol Kerwood from A7C Victoria made us a surprise visit. David Grear chairs these meetings; that‟s him standing on the left. Sometimes we have pizza for supper! Next gathering Monday April 25 at 7.30pm no guarantees of pizza though. All welcome, no minutes taken, no correspondence read!

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If undeliverable return to AUSTIN 7 JOURNALS Austin 7 Club SA Inc SURFACE POSTAGE 262 Tapleys Hill Road PAID SEATON SA 5023 MAIL AUSTRALIA

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