www.mx5club.com.au Founded 1990 pressTHE BIMONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE MAZDA MX-5 CLUB OF WA INC.
Editing, design and production Simon Corston & Bob Sharpe Mazda Jan-Feb 2017 Club of Western Australia
Inside 5 Humour Us 6 Coming Events 8 NZ Tiki Tour (Part I) 10 Event Photos 18 MX-5 Fan Fest 19 MX-5 Rocketeer
Steve Harris - January 2017 President’s Report What do 477 MX-5s all gathered togeth- made at NatMeet and to make contact with for our cars, stating in a press interview for er in the same place look like? I hope that our exclusive WA representatives. Lyall had motoring.com.au “It makes me incredibly the photos in this copy of MX-press do full registered for motor sport, while Dave and proud that no matter where in the world I justice to the truly magnificent sight. Ken had gained photographer accreditation travel, the love for the MX-5 is always the This was the Mazda MX-5 FanFest held allowing them greater access; while John, same.” I think that we can all endorse that. on 21 January at Sandown in Melbourne to Carol and I just enjoyed the day. And what The weekend did not end there. With so give Australian MX-5 owners the opportu- a day it was. many interstate visitors, the Vic/Tas club nity to see and sign the one millionth MX-5 Club members enrolled in motor sport had organised a cruise (actually six cruises off the production line and also to see the had the track for most of the day (Lyall has with a common end point to accommo- RF model for the first time. The 477 MX-5s now driven three Eastern States tracks in the date the number of cars) in East Gippsland. made up the biggest meeting of our beauti- last year). Their racing was interrupted by Somehow I got back to my hotel and to the ful cars ever in the Southern Hemisphere. the massive parade lap of all 477 cars lining cruise start point, the latter by following the To ensure that every state was represen- up four deep on the main straight while pho- MX-5 RF. The good news about the cruise is tation, Mazda Australia offered each club tographers and drones recorded this record that we drove some excellent and generally president travel to the event and the loan of gathering. They were also interrupted when quiet MX-5 type roads, sometimes appropri- an ND for the weekend. The enthusiasm of the two Mazda Cup cars brought from the ately quickly, among beautiful scenery; the the WA club knows very few boundaries and USA took over for some hot laps, driven by bad news is that it was all in convoy. Sorry five other WA members combined attending professional drivers, plus some only slightly Eastern Staters, WA will never adopt con- the FanFest with other activities, resulting in less hot laps by the Mazda Targa NDs. The voy rules. It is no fun parked for half an hour six from the West. We were heavily outnum- Driver Simulator winners got to sit in the on a country road because three cars missed bered by Eastern States attendees, both club passenger seat of a Mazda Cup car for a lap. I the turn and it is not acceptable to “blame” members and non-club MX-5 owners, with gather that most had their braking foot hard somebody for parking safely when the strict well over 1,500 people attending the event. down on the floor before each bend way convoy order would have been unsafe. To On the evening before the FanFest a few before the driver even thought about it. whoever it was, the cruise organiser did not of us gathered in Melbourne for drinks. The The other big attraction was the millionth set out to design a route to exacerbate your Melbourne CBD was in a state of near total MX-5 off the production line. It had been wife’s medical condition (all these experi- lockdown as the terrible events in Bourke covered in a white grid. Most of these had enced/witnessed by the WA crew). This Street had occurred that afternoon. already been filled by the white signatures was the first real opportunity that I had to The following morning I waited for the of Japanese, American, British and European drive the 2.0 litre ND properly. My opinion hotel porter to collect my ND, which had MX-5 owners; but there was still plenty of is that the extra stiffness and power make been left for me by Mazda Australia in the space for the 1500+ Aussie signatures, still it a better handling and driving car than hotel car park. I had scored a Soul Red two- leaving more space for the car’s trip to NZ. the 1.5 litre and a brilliant all round sports litre manual GT; couldn’t have been better! When the world tour is finished, it will be on car. The end of the cruise provided the final After some time sitting in the hotel driveway permanent display in the Mazda Museum opportunity to chat with our interstate coun- trying to figure out how to work the satnav in Hiroshima. The queue to sign provided terparts about what a great weekend it had I decided that Google maps on iPhone was plenty of time to admire the Machine Grey been. Finally, after about an hour and four the best way to get to Sandown. Once out of RF. By now I would presume that most of false starts, Don and I finally figured out the the city there were enough MX-5s to follow our members have seen the RF and will deepest secrets of the ND satnav and safely to the venue. Being a private event, our cars agree that it is a stunning car that will surely returned to our hotels. had to queue while names were checked. If turn heads just while putting the roof up. Many thanks to Mazda for an excellent there is such a thing as a good queue then a Then there was the VIP guests attending FanFest and to the Vic/Tas club for organis- two kilometre long one of MX-5s is as close the FanFest, including the NZ rotary MX-5 ing a great cruise. as you are going to get. drift racer Mad Mike, unfortunately without Finally, on a different subject, I think Once inside we were parked accord- his car. However by far the most impor- that this is my 34th consecutive President’s ing to whether or not you had enrolled for tant VIP was Professor Takao Kijima who is Report for MX-press and because Lianna motor sport (I hadn’t), whether or not you now retired from Mazda but is best known and I will be taking a long vacation over the had entered the show and shine (why not?); for being the father of the MX-5 chassis as next few months, I will be handing over the and then grouped into the four model types. principal development engineer of the NA next two editions to the Vice President. I am NDs are not that common in WA yet, but and NB, while consulting on the NC and sure that you will be in good hands. they are in the Eastern States, with the show ND models. As we sit in our MX-5s, Kijima- and shine ND group being at least 70 cars. san’s engineering genius is surrounding us. Barrie Parker Then it was time to catch up with friends Kijima-san has not lost any of his enthusiasm
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
2 MX-press: January-February 2017 Committee Contents President MX-press January-February 2017 Contents Barrie Parker m: 0417 918 359 President’s Report...... 2 e: [email protected] Committee...... 3 Vice President/Events Coordinator Aart ter Kuile m: 0419 915 784 Features Contents...... 3 e: [email protected] Editor’s Desk...... 4 e: [email protected] NZ Tiki Tour 2016 8-9 Humour Us...... 5 Treasurer Coming Events...... 6 Bev Wotzko m: 0413 564 372 Event Photos 10-11 Bits ‘n’ BobS...... 7 e: [email protected] Membership Mazda MX-5 Fan Fest 18 Computer Corner...... 7 Gary Wotzko m: 0413 564 373 NZ Tiki Tour 2016 (Part I)...... 8 e: [email protected] MX-5 Rocketeer 19 NZ Tiki Tour 2016 (Continued)...... 9 Secretary Event Photos...... 10 Carol Messenger m: 0408 929 799 Event Photos...... 11 e: [email protected] Regulars Event Write-Ups...... 12 Webmaster President’s Report 2 David Turk Event Write-Ups (Continued)...... 13 e: [email protected] Your Committee 3 Event Write-Ups (Continued)...... 14 Motor Sport Manager Editor’s Desk 4 Event Write-Ups (Continued)...... 15 Warwick Gates m: 0409 103 232 Motor Sport Report...... 16 e: [email protected] Humour Us 5 Motor Sport Coordinator Motor Sport (Continued)...... 17 Don Messenger m: 0419 924 420 Coming Events 6 Mazda MX-5 Fan Fest...... 18 e: [email protected] MX-5 Rocketeer...... 19 Merchandise Bits ‘n’ BobS 7 Lianna Parker m: 0437 629 635 Computer Corner 7 e: [email protected] MX-press Editor Event Write-Ups 12-15 Bob Sharpe m: 0430 596 479 Motor Sport Report 16-17 e: [email protected] MX-press Production Simon Corston m: 0409 139 606 e: [email protected] Social Steve Harris m: 0412 928 275 General Committee Lyall Tilson m: 0438 755 007 David Masters m: 0417 923 727 ...... Foundation/Life Members Cover Photograph: Steve Harris, January 2017 Cruise by Simon Corston BB Brian Butterworth ...... B The Mazda MX-5 Club of WA Inc, its officers and committee, cannot be held liable for any errors and/or omissions in B Sandra Price articles, reports, notices, advertisements, comment and advice of events that are published in MX-press in good faith. It BB Ashley Price should be noted that the publication of an advertisement, or expression of views in articles and reports, does not imply B endorsement by the club of the advertised product or service. B Ian Lewis ...... BB Graeme Martin MX-press is the newsletter of the Mazda MX-5 Club of WA Inc. BB Peter Randell ...... BB David Turk Contributions are welcome. Articles and photographs should be emailed to [email protected] ...... BB Simon Corston B All other club correspondence can be sent to the committee via the club website. B Bob Sharpe The committee meets on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:30pm. BB Barrie Parker The location of our meetings is 21 Faulkner Avenue, Belmont.
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 3 Editor’s Desk ’day all. out of a run and yet the other MX-5 clubs was awarded a life membership at the An- GHope you all had a great Christmas and still persist with it so watch out if you join a nual Dinner for his contribution to the club New Year, got rid of the rellies and finished run in any state other than the wild west. Be over the past ten years. Barrie is a very com- off all those leftovers without getting food prepared to live up to the Wait Awhile state petent leader and great ambassador for the poisoning. reputation. club. He has, at last count, three MX-5s and Did you ever hear of a speed limit being in- We’ve also been to the launch of the RF he devotes much of his time to club duties creased? No, neither have I except for the MX-5 put on by Bayswater Mazda. A great and activities. He also promotes the club Northern Territory where they seem to turnout for a great night and even better, and WA wherever and whenever he can es- have some common sense. That means that we welcome Bayswater Mazda as a major pecially to the other state clubs. With Barrie the powers that be infallibly put the right sponsor to the club this year. Special thanks at the helm they know we are around albeit speed limit on our roads and only reduce to Dealer Principal Peter Merks who al- a long way away. Welcome to the select band them when the population grows or con- lowed this. Peter is a very interesting and of the life members, Barrie. It was a well de- ditions change. They must all be Catholics entertaining man with a solid international served and popular choice. using their infallibility in their quest for the background in car dealerships and I have no While on the subject of the Annual Dinner, papacy. Just sayin…! doubt the dealership will prosper under his it was, as usual, a well organised event with a We’ve had my Collectors Cruise which at- leadership. I’m sure we will be hearing more good meal and it is not as formal as it sounds tracted 12 of those poor unfortunates who of Peter. If you are thinking of a new ND, a so I advise those members who have not at- can only afford to drive Ferraris. Seriously, second-hand car or even parts or service, tended a dinner before to do so next time thanks for coming guys. Also a mention to support Peter and his team just as they are around. Even the presentations are done the bloke with the Copen who somehow supporting us. with a great deal of humour and comrade- managed to be with the Ferraris ahead of We are all hoping that the RF will attract a ship so let’s see you there next year. Even the the MX-5s at the regroup point. Do you still younger group of buyers to the club to inject cost is subsidised for members. have an engine or did it melt? Elsewhere in some new ideas. The ND, while selling well, Well, that’s it for another issue so keep hav- this issue you can read about our president has not lead to an influx of owners to the ing fun on wheels and give a few thoughts and his recent experience on an eastern club as it has in other states. It makes your to these folk: In 1845 surveyor to the City states run governed by “convoy rules” which, committee question whether we are doing of London, Charles Pearson, suggested an for those who don’t know, requires you to enough or providing what you want from underground railway. The Duke of Welling- wait for the car behind you at each turn in your club. We have asked often enough for ton refused the idea on the grounds that the case a member of the poor cardigan brigade you to tell us and give us your ideas and that dastardly French might surprise them by gets lost. We ditched these rules years ago offer is still open. arriving on it. Colonel Pierrepoint erected because they suck. Yes, they suck the fun Meanwhile, club president, Barrie Parker London’s first traffic island in Piccadilly at his own expense to provide safety crossing the road. One day he stopped to admire it and was run down by a hansom cab. Finally, in the 18th century a beauty patch on a la- dy’s bosom meant “Venez y voir” (come and have a look).
Bob Sharpe
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
4 MX-press: January-February 2017 Humour Us Four Husbands gonna be runna da business, you gonna have Spot is dead.” The local news station was interview- a beautiful wife, lotsa money, a big-a home Trying to keep her head about her, she left ing an 80-year-old lady because she had and maybe a couple of bambinos.” the room as quickly as possible, called the just gotten married for the fourth time. The “Somma day you gonna come-a home and doctor and told him what had happened. interviewer asked her questions about her maybe finda you wife inna bed with another The doctor said, “That’s bad, but I think life, about what it felt like to be marrying man. Whatta you gonna do then? Pointa to we can take care of it. I’ll call for an ambu- again at 80, and then about her new hus- you watch and say, ‘Times up?” lance and I’ll be there as quickly as I can. band’s occupation. Irish blonde We’ll give everyone enemas and we’ll pump “He’s a funeral director,” she answered. An attractive blonde from Cork, Ireland, out their stomachs and everything will be “Interesting,” the newsman thought. arrived at the casino. She seemed a little fine. Just keep them calm.” He then asked her if she wouldn’t mind intoxicated and bet twenty thousand dollars Before long they started to hear the sirens telling him a little about her first three hus- in a single roll of the dice. as the ambulance tore down the road. bands and what they did for a living. She She said, “I hope you don’t mind, but The paramedics and the doctor had their paused for a few moments, needing time to I feel much luckier when I’m completely suitcases, syringes, and a stomach pump. reflect on all those years. After a short time, nude.” With that, she stripped from the One by one, they took each person into a smile came to her face and she answered neck down, rolled the dice and with an Irish the bathroom, gave them an enema, and proudly, explaining that she had first mar- brogue yelled, “Come on, baby, Mama needs pumped out their stomach.Well after mid- ried a banker when she was in her 20’s, then new clothes!” night, after the last one was done the doctor a circus ringmaster when in her 40’s, and a As the dice came to a stop, she jumped came out and said, “Everything will be okay preacher when in her 60’s, and now in her up and down and squealed. “Yes! Yes! I now,” and with that he left. 80’s - a funeral director. won, I won!” She hugged each of the dealers, The hosts and the guests were all weak The interviewer looked at her, quite picked up her winnings and her clothes and and knackered sitting around the living astonished, and asked why she had married quickly departed. room when the daughter came in and said to four men with such diverse careers. The dealers stared at each other her mum “I can’t believe that bloke!” She smiled and explained, “I married one dumbfounded. “What bloke?” for the money, two for the show, three to get Finally, one of them asked, “What did she “You know, that bastard who ran over ready, and four to go.” roll?” The other answered, “I don’t know, I Spot; he never even slowed down.” The Jewish Elbow thought you were watching.” Facebook A Jewish grandmother is giving directions The moral of the story: Not all Irish are For those of who do not use and cannot to her grown grandson who is coming to drunks, not all blondes are dumb, but all comprehend Facebook: I am trying to make visit with his wife. men are men! friends outside of Facebook while applying “You come to the front door of the apart- Mushrooms the same principles. ments. I am in apartment 301. There is a big She wanted to serve her guests mush- Therefore, every day I walk down the panel at the front door. With your elbow, room-smothered steak, but she had no street and tell passers by what I have eaten, push button 301. I will buzz you in. Come mushrooms and no time to buy them. how I feel at the moment, what I have done inside and the elevator is on the right. Get in, Her husband suggested, “Why don’t you the night before, what I will do later, and and with your elbow, push 3rd Floor. When go pick some of the mushrooms that are with whom. you get out, I’m on the left. growing wild down by the stream? I give them pictures of my family, my dog, With your elbow, hit my doorbell. OK?” “No, some wild mushrooms are poisonous.” (other dogs and cats), ‘selfies’ of me, stand- “Grandma, that sounds easy, but, why am I “Well, I see squirrels eating them and ing in front of landmarks, having lunch, and hitting all these buttons with my elbow? they’re OK.” doing what anybody and everybody does “What, you’re coming empty handed?” So she picked a bunch and washed, sliced every day. Wise Italian Grandfather and sautéed them for her dinner. I also listen to their conversations, give An old Italian man in Brooklyn is dying. Then she went out on the back porch and them the “thumbs up,” and tell them I ‘like’ He calls his grandson to his bedside, “Guido, gave Spot, their dog, a double handful. them. I wan’ you lissina me. I wan’ you to take-a my Spot ate every bite. And it works just like Facebook. I chrome plated 38 revolver so you will always All morning long, she watched the dog. already have four people following me: two remember me.” The wild mushrooms hadn’t affected him police officers, a private investigator, and a “But grandpa, I really don’t like guns. after a few hours, so she decided to use them. psychiatrist. How about you leave me your Rolex watch The meal was a great success. instead?” After everyone had finished, her daugh- “You lissina me, boy! Somma day you ter came in and whispered in her ear, “Mum,
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 5 Coming Events Don’t forget to check out our website (www.mx5club.com.au) for the latest events 5 Monthly Cruise: New Norcia Crusade—Sunday Join us for a 160km scenic cruise through the Chittering Valley to Australia’s only monastic town, New Norcia. We stop for morning tea at the Bindoon Bakehaus. Bring a picnic or have lunch at the New Norcia Hotel. A two-hour guided tour at 1:30pm is the best way to discover New Norcia. Hear stories of the last 160 years and visit the monks’ own chapel or stroll through the museum and art gallery. We meet near the Muzz Buzz at the Central Beechboro Shopping Centre on the corner of Beechboro Road North and Benara Road, Beechboro at 9:00am and depart 9:30am. 11 Afternoon Cruise and Dinner: Mandoon Estate Winery—Saturday Our first afternoon-evening run is a 125km scenic drive through the Perth hills to the Mandoon Homestead Brewery, just off the Reid Highway in time for an early dinner (order and pay at the bar). If you want to attend, please RSVP by email to [email protected] by 9 March so we can confirm our booking.
MARCH We meet at the Gosnells Civic Centre located between Albany Highway and Mills Road West in the parking area near Mills Road West at 3:30pm for a 4:00pm departure. 22 Midweek Lunchtime Cruise: Chidlow Tavern —Wednesday A short cruise for those who are retired, of independent means or not working, to the Chidlow Tavern for lunch. We meet at Riverside at Woodbridge located at 8254 Ford Street, Woodbridge at 10:30am for a coffee. We will leave around eleven. 28 Committee Meeting—Tuesday The committee will meet at 21 Faulkner Avenue, Belmont. Arrive at 6:30pm to share some food before we start at 7:00pm.
2 Monthly Cruise: Cunderdin —Sunday Terry and Christine Smith are taking us on a 450km drive to Cunderdin in the heart of the wheat belt. We have lunch at the Et- tamogah Pub. There will be time to explore the Cunderdin museum. Please RSVP by email to [email protected] before 30 March so we can finalise the lunch booking at the Ettamogah Pub. We meet near the Muzz Buzz at the Midland Centrepoint Shopping Centre at 309 Great Eastern Highway, Midland at 8:30am and depart at 9:00am. 8 Saturday Cruise: Three Dams and a Weir —Saturday Join Ray Brown for the 93km scenic Saturday run through the Perth hills. The run ends at Sculpture Park in Mundaring for a picnic or BBQ lunch or get something at the Mundaring shopping mall around the corner. We meet at the Gosnells Civic Centre located between Albany Highway and Mills Road West in the parking area near Mills Road West at 9:00am and depart 9:30am. 14 M-Eggs-Five Easter Eggstravaganza at Matilda Bay—Friday The Messengers are organising a short drive to Matilda Bay for a BYO everything breakfast, where the fun continues with a post-cruise quiz, freshly BBQ-toasted hot cross buns and the sixth M-Eggs-5 Race. Head to the Mill Point carpark under Nar- rows Bridge in South Perth where we meet at 8:00am for a 8:15am start. If that is too early you can always catch up at Matilda APRIL Bay about 9:00am. Please confirm if you will be attending by email to [email protected] so Carol can bring the right amount of hot cross buns and chocolate Easter eggs! 23 CMC Ascot Classic Car Show—Sunday This annual event is to be held at Ascot Park. MX-5 club members who put their car on display are rewarded with free liquid refreshments and lunch courtesy of the club and prepared by Carol Messenger. A successful display is only possible if members get involved; we need members to volunteer to put their car on display and spend some time at our club display. We also need volunteers to assist in erecting the marquee and display on the prior Saturday afternoon. Steve Harris is coordinating our entry, so if you want to get involved please email him at [email protected]. 25 Committee Meeting—Tuesday The committee will meet at 21 Faulkner Avenue, Belmont. Arrive at 6:30pm to share some food before we start at 7:00pm.
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
6 MX-press: January-February 2017 Bits ‘n’ BobS Air Pressure Raises Blood Pres- something most enthusiasts had on their this tough period. However, I am certain we sure bucket list. Thanks, Big Al. haven’t heard the last of Rosco. We generally rave about Mazda’s stuff, 2015 Bauer LTD Catfish More Power except for lack of power in MX-5s, but if Let’s say you love everything about the Recently the West Australian newspaper you’ve bought a Mazda Zero air compressor Miata but don’t want your car to look like praised the new MX-5 RF as being the vehi- as one long standing member did, beware. a Miata. Well, the Bauer Catfish is perfect cle to attract younger MX-5 buyers. They He reports that despite keeping the item for you. It’s based on the Miata but offers also said that the car needs a more power- inside the supplied storage bag, when he wildly different styling. The seller says it cost ful engine, at least turbocharged. Fancy that! came to use it twelve months later the insula- $50,000 to build, but we bet you can get it We at MX-press have blowing that trumpet tion had come away from the wires exposing for a good bit less than that. for years and despite worldwide calls for the them which poses potential danger from fire same thing Mazda have consistently refused or electrocution. to encompass such an idea except for a brief Let us know if there is another instance of fling with the NB SE and the NB SP. It seems this out there and we will follow up because that they are happy to let hundreds of fans of the inherent danger. Maybe there was a around the world fit all manner of after-mar- recall which we don’t know about. ket go-fast bits but won’t do it themselves. Big Al Folds Em The big question is why? With the passing of Alan “Big Al” Erdman McGlashan Crash’n the final Big Al’s Poker Run was run on 11 After years of fighting a lack of funds and February. Started in 1981, the first run had propelled by sheer guts and determination RIP ERIC PUDDEY 54 entrants and peaked in 2001 with 820 to achieve a dream of setting the world land vehicles. It was originally for hot rods and speed record, Rosco McGlashan has had the Regrettably we inform members of the big American iron and chrome leviathans ATO appoint liquidators over his company. passing of former member Eric Pud- but as it grew it was open to anyone. Then Rosco hosted a visit from our club back in dey on 22 February. Eric and I worked it outgrew the ability to control it effectively January 2016 and appeared on the MX-press together many years ago and lost touch so the rules were changed to limit it to the cover of the Jan-Feb issue. He is the typi- until he joined our club early last year. original concept plus any classic cars, trucks cal Aussie battler and deserves better than By then he had already started treatment and unusual pre-1978 cars. I still have the this. This bloke should go down as a national for cancer and told me that owning and entrants cloth badge obtained when I par- hero and our federal and state governments driving an MX-5 was something that ticipated in my MX-5 just before the rule should fully fund his project not send him he was determined to do while he still change which prohibited riff-raff like me in to the wall. The resulting publicity, should could. Our condolences go out to his a funny little Japanese sports car. Big Al’s he even come close to a record, would more family and friends. Poker Run will long be remembered by than cover the cost of the project. We wish Barrie Parker WA’s motoring fraternity as a fun outing and him, his family and his team well, through Computer Corner Independent Dummy Look Mum No Chute Incredible Flyboard Air The ventriloquist dummy still performs Taunting God like this guy is doing proves Franky Zapata rides the ‘Flyboard Air’ in after ventriloquist walks off stage. only one thing that an unexpected gust of Naples, Florida, doing impressive maneu- http://1funny.com/ wind could verify. vers like spins and slalom, including amazing ventriloquist-walks-off-stage/ http://surprise. manoeuvres in front of the crowd. See through engine ly/v/?PK0Hl0kWELE:0:0:0:100 http://www.flixxy.com/the-incredible- This guy does some good videos, you Whale of a Tale flyboard-air.htm might have seen his reverse-bicycle - where Watch as these kind folk save a young Wooden Doll turning left makes you go right and vice whale from certain death. This brings new meaning to body painting. versa, and how it works with your brain - he http://www.youtube.com/embed/ https://videos-f.jwpsrv.com/content/ has a bunch of other stuff too, the helicop- EBYPlcSD490?rel=0 conversions/nZ44Y8ot/videos/ ter ones are good. But anyway, this one is Magnets and Marbles fHLu8cvK-27972850.mp4?token=0_58b6 not exactly news in that you know how an Complicated to set up and get to work 41ae_0x303032fa4dd3473057fa22d898bc0 engine works, but it’s interesting to see it! and very effective and entertaining video. a19dcd801a9 https://www.youtube.com/ https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=xflY5uS-nnw watch?v=QQ9gs-5lRKc
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 7 NZ Tiki Tour 2016 (Part I) Photos by Ash Price he 2016 Tiki Tour, the fifth in the se- up in the massive carpark. handrail, much needed as the near-gale force Tries started in 2012, was the brainchild The first 97 kilometres of the tour was the winds threatened to blow us over the edge of of Cath and Glyn Clements from Kimbol- Akatarawa Road, followed by the Rimutakas the cliff! ton in the Manawatu. The Clements, one of on SH2. Described as “The Akatarawa We decided to head for Martinborough six crews to have a 100% Tiki Tour record, Valley Hill Road is a narrow twisting route a lovely little country town. We arrived also ran the 2014 25th Anniversary TT that’s not for the faint hearted; there are in bright sunshine, had a terrific lunch at around the central North Island. hairpin bends, I-think-I’d-rather-close-my- the Village Cafe , then strolled around the Our friends Gary and Bev Wotzko from eyes-than-look steep drops and the road is town centre, enjoying the relaxed feel. One WA, who have been frequent visitors from stupidly narrow in many places so edging strange thing though, at 2.30 on Tuesday Perth, and experienced two previous TTs, past an oncoming vehicle requires caution, afternoon, almost all the shops and cafes were keen for a third. However, they were nerves of steel and a stiff drink at the end of were closed! Why? also keen to find a house and relocate to the trip.” Definitely best driving in convoy as Top down, the rain soon returned before the Tasman area, so Bev stayed behind we did. The Rimutakas were almost tame by we reached the motel. We enjoyed a great in Motueka with Sandra to do some seri- comparison, even with very low cloud and meal that night at the packed Tripoli Bistro ous house hunting. This left Ash and Gary steady rain, though not enough to stop our in Masterton. to blaze their own unique trail around the driving top-down. We stayed overnight at Wednesday North Island in a 1993 Red NA that replaced the Masterton Motor Lodge. A damp departure again, following a Sandra’s 2011 NC in April this year. Could Tuesday detailed route chart from Glyn. There was a we keep up with the NCs which made up Francis and Gaile Pointon’s Garage and little confusion at “Bear Right to Alfredton”. the majority of the field? Could we squeeze Museum was our first stop. Around 30 cars, Gary didn’t hang around, followed the right those many presents for our spouses into many fully restored and the rest awaiting turn and enjoyed the next 45 minutes on an already crammed full boot? Is the Earth their turn. Also a great collection of vin- glorious twisty back roads. Only problem round? tage clothing, all displayed beautifully in a was we should have turned left! Despite Monday range of barns and sheds! Yes, it was rain- covering nearly 80km too many, we finally Meeting at the Southward Museum, New ing as we headed out to Castle Point, but it arrived at the Tui brewery cafe/museum at Zealand’s biggest car collection was a great miraculously stopped just before we arrived. Mangatainoka just before the last of the oth- choice. We spent the morning browsing Very windy and cold but dry as we marched ers departed. A quick lunch stop at a wet some of the more than 400 vehicles. We across the sand to the good climb up past the Dannevirke allowed us to rejoin the gang at started spotting some familiar MX-5 faces, lighthouse to the viewpoint at the top. The and by 1pm, there were over 20 MXs lined last stretch was a flight of steep steps with a (Continued on page 9)
A sunny day British Car Museum
British Car Museum Cape Palliser Ford
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
8 MX-press: January-February 2017 NZ Tiki Tour 2016 (Continued) Photos by Ash Price (Continued from page 8) cars we’d owned: they were all there! Some headed north, and arrived at Waiouru Army Dave’s Den, an incredible private collection were a little tired, but many were in excellent Museum just before the rain clouds. of model vehicles, with over 8000 on show. condition. Apparently a lot of the cars were What a museum! We spent most of the Destination that night was The Village driven in and just handed over to Ian. afternoon there, learning about all the vari- Motel in Havelock North, the best accom- We came out to see a warm sunny day ous theatres of war that involved Kiwi troops. modation we stayed at on the whole trip. for our cruise into Napier for another great The second Boer War was an eye-opener This was probably the most consistently wet lunch in the Art Deco area. Then a two-hour for me, and watching a number of reviews day of the tour. A bewildering choice of good Art Deco walking tour of the town centre and eye-witness accounts of Gallipoli told a eateries, all within two blocks of the Village; before returning to The Village at Havelock revealing story. We dragged ourselves away, we settled on the Rose and Shamrock pub. North for a long overdue wash for the MX-5. promising to return – so much more to see Good food and inexpensive. With all this The queue for the bucket and hose quickly and learn. great food and sitting in cars all day, our formed behind me! Despite this delayed departure, it was waistlines were expanding! Chatting in the carpark, we had a surprise still bucketing down for the final 70km to Thursday visit by Dianna and Tom, on holiday from Turangi. Another very sociable evening A free day around Hawkes Bay. Ken their home at Hokianga Harbour in their red spreading along the verandah of Parklands Brown recommended Te Mata Peak Road, ND. We had a great talk, and it emerged that Motor Lodge. and Denis Crossman, the river road drive they have an NA, NB, NC and ND in their Saturday back out to the coast. Both were great and garage, including probably the world’s only A damp start for our drive around Lake the last couple of kilometres up the peak MX-5 camper! Taupo, with a dry and sunny stop at Kinloch were rather challenging with many blind Friday for morning coffee. Then into Taupo town corners on a very one-way road! A tremen- After a very comfortable stay at The for lunch before cruising back to Turangi. dous view from the top carpark, taking in Village, it was on to the Napier – Taihape Before we arrived, down came the rain again. the whole of the Bay. Misty but dry, and the road and a brilliant 150km non-stop drive Glyn inspired some intrepid MX-5ers with a weather just got better all day. But first, Ian in the rain over one of the best MX-5 roads damp BBQ. Hope’s British Car Museum at Haumoana. in the North Island. Known as Gentle Annie Words and even pictures don’t do justice though I have no idea why, as our NA was Ash Price to this eclectic, disorganised, massive col- not going at all gently! lection of over 400 cars. Stacked two-high Our coffee stop in Taihape, like almost (Part two of this story will appear in the next everywhere, Gary and I stayed for nearly every other stop on the tour, had no rain issue of MX-press) three hours, reminiscing about all the British and even sunshine. Top down, we then
Castle Point Cathy and Glyn
Chateau Tongariro Final dinner
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 9 Event Photos Photos by Simon Corston January Pickers & Collectors Cruise
1948 Chevrolet Pickup Truck Ferrari F430s 1950 Bedford K Series Truck
Ferrari Testarossa 512 TR Pickers & Collectors Welcome Lotus Elise
February Williamsons Wanderings Cruise
MX-5s Gathered at Penelope’s Penelope’s Spread Penelope Serves Dessert
Penelpe’s Pumpkin Dish Last Place - Raymond & Maggie On The Terrace
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
10 MX-press: January-February 2017 Event Photos Photos by Simon Corston Bayswater Mazda Reveal MX-5 RF
MX-5 RF Under Wraps MX-5 ND Softtops On Display Sophie Checks Out ND
Mazda MX-5 RF Revealed MX-5 RF Roof In Action MX-5 Owners Inspect The MX-5 RF
MX-5 Club Annual Dinner & Awards Night
Neil and Kylie Glynn and Dianna Gary and Bev
Andrew Cathie - Member of the Year Event Organisers for 2016 Barrie Parker - Life Member
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 11 Event Write-Ups After Work Get Together: Christ- impressive displays were fund raising for Lotii, a Jaguar, a Bentley, a Jensen, a Suzuki mas Lights Cruise—20 December good causes, and a few drive-by donations Cappuccino, an RX-7, a Triumph Spitfire Twelve MX-5s lined up in the Crimea (again, easy in a convertible) were made, which disappeared shortly after the start, Park carpark looking rather different to any with some Santa’s even able to throw a candy never to be heard of again and two restored other cruise for the year. All sorts or bright, cane into the open car as a thank you. trucks (Bedford and Chevrolet) from the colourful and dangling decorations adorned A couple of cars made a wrong turn Chrome Bumper Club constituted a very many cars, with some so heavily decorated onto the freeway which was quickly regret- interesting cruise list. Two notable absences it was amazing half of them didn’t get blown ted once realising they were unable to turn were the Bolwell owners and a Mustang off during the run. around. Everyone carried on at their own owner who recently lost his driver’s licence Just before last light the cruise began its pace, until we arrived at another location apparently due to forgetting his speedo was journey around the corner to its first loca- that had not one but two adjoining streets reading mph not km/h. tion. Navigation was aided by Aart’s clever full of Christmas lights in Connolly. They Just as well we don’t have convoy rules. google maps route which included many drew so much attraction that we had to grind Can you imagine a Ferrari having to wait for stops in the one route. Faye and Steve how- to a halt as the street was completely jam- a Cappuccino? ever disregarded the now conventional packed with foot traffic. They sure seemed to The variety of cars made it a special day technology for a very unconventional but be enjoying themselves on foot, so just imag- with many people wanting to talk to the trustworthy street directory. Brave indeed. ine how much more enjoyable it was in the owners of these unusual vehicles. A short wait was required at our first comfort of an open top MX-5 on a balmy Two enquiries about club membership stop, as we joined a large crowd waiting for summer evening! resulted from handing out newsletters. the very dedicated and now well known The final destination was at the Duke for Bob found his work megaphone and Christmas decorators in their 24th year, John a drink and chat, for those able to complete despite threats to put it in places anatomi- and Faye Roe, to flick the big power switch. the entire journey. A big thank you to Aart cally impossible, a welcome was made and Once open the amazing display could be for planning such a great Christmas lights a warning about speed cameras, double inspected further by following a very narrow route with easy to follow GPS navigation. demerit points and that this was not a race winding path through the decorations. The Good riddance to those street directories. was issued and the run began but not before very worn grass along the path revealed just Paul Andriessen had something to say about how many people have passed through this Olivier Pilot drip trays. display already. Monthly Cruise: Bob’s Collectors As it turned out the Cappuccino arrived A few more wonderful displays were Cruise—8 January just after the Ferraris and ahead of the driven by (convertibles give a great view After being concerned about excessive hot MX-5s at the Byford regroup point. I am of Christmas lights by the way) with some weather and “road across the wetlands” pro- afraid to ask how. Anyway there were lots of of the lights in the shape of Australian ani- testers, neither eventuated on Editor Bob’s smiles at that point except one Ferrari had a mals a personal favourite. The wow factor Pickers run. As usual Bob, being a friendly gearbox problem so that owner wasn’t smil- stepped up a notch once we arrived to not bloke, invited members of a few other clubs ing as much as the rest, however, even he was just one impressive display, but an entire cul- to attend the first run of the year which this fine when it turned out to be an easy fix. de-sac full of them located in Samson Court, year went to Pickers and Collectors Bazaar The smiles turned into a few grizzles Duncraig. Manual drivers struggled to inch in O’Connor. As a result 47 cars rocked when Bob had to prod the participants into up the steep street slowly but the effort up to swell the numbers of 22 MX-5s. 12 was worth it. Many of the creators of these Ferrari’s, a Maserati, a Mercedes, a TVR, two (Continued on page 13)
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
12 MX-press: January-February 2017 Event Write-Ups (Continued) (Continued from page 12) trip notes blew away during the briefing. we were advised was the highlight of the starting the second half of the run because After a fruitless chase (on foot) for about a cruise: The Big Dippers, only to come across apparently they had not done all the talking 100m down the Mole, I let them fly off to night works which had closed off Great that needed to be done. Fremantle and returned for the end of the Northern Highway completely. After a cou- Again at the finish there were many smiles briefing. As a new member, I was not aware ple of aborted attempts to by-pass the road and comments about the run and more that this incident automatically qualified me works, hunger prevailed, so the rest of the amazement at the sheer size and variety of to be “volunteered” to write this trip report cruise was abandoned and we headed back the Pickers and Collectors Bazaar and the (maybe I should have read those club by- to Guildford. All was not lost however, as fact that Donna, the owner, provided free tea, laws Gary sent me). the consensus around the table at Alfred’s coffee, soft drinks, beer, cakes, doughnuts, Anyway, at 6:30pm we set off in the late Kitchen was that we were eating the best biscuits and other goodies. She had even day sunshine north along the coast. It was burgers in WA. gone to the trouble of doing up welcome definitely warmer in the car at speed with the signs for the Ferrari club and the Mazda top down than standing at the end of North Malcolm Wilcox club although the picture on the Mazda sign Mole! At Leighton Beach and Cottesloe the Dawn Breakfast Raid: Hainault looked more like Ford Capri. However, the kite-surfers were taking advantage of the Vineyard—29 January spirit and thought was much appreciated. conditions and putting on a great display. Thirteen MX-5s arrived at the Muzz Buzz The group talked more, and bought col- A closed road out the back of Swanbourne at Centrepoint Shopping Centre in Midland lectibles which made Donna smile too. (perhaps an omen of what was to come) from 7:00am for our dawn raid on Hainault The run was made over “roads-less-trav- had Aart stopped to wave us all in the right Vineyard Café for breakfast. elled” which sparked a lot of comment about direction. It certainly wasn’t unlucky for our early “never having been here before” or “seen that We then cut across on Reid Highway rising “fivers” who were greeted to pleas- before”. (where an ominous flash from behind a bush ant cool, damp change after a few scorching A big thank you to those people who will keep me checking my mailbox to see if it hot days. Indeed, it was the beginning of one spread the word about this run such as Keith was meant for me or the Commodore in the of the wettest January spells this century. and Frank and the Ferrari and Chrome next lane) through to the Swan Valley. Sunday was just wet enough to leave their Bumper clubs for their attendance and There we re-grouped, and of course sam- Stability control on for those that had it. Donna at Pickers and Collectors for her pled the gourmet ice-cream at The Junction Before we started, Bayswater Mazda were hospitality. in Midland. Ross arrived a few minutes late, kind enough to front with a sparkling new Where will we be taken next year? having stopped to shepherd a stray dog off white MX-5 RF to provide us an early pre- Wherever it is, don’t miss it because with the road. It was good to meet Leigh who was view with an obligatory lowering and raising Bob organising it you know it will be up in Perth from Esperance and appeared to on the roof centre section. Very neat and I’m “different”. be enjoying driving the more wiggly roads sure will appeal to many along with the extra than they have down there. Our group of “ t e c h”. Bob Sharpe topless MX-5s in the carpark were an inter- After our normal briefing and distribu- Saturday night cruise: sea to esting contrast to the American muscle cars tion on course notes at 7:30am, we were off scarp 5—21 January there, whose drivers presumably were there to tackle some old, semi-deserted favour- Ten MX-5s gathered at the end of a only because they were ice-cream connois- ite hills roads. First was Goosberry Hill and very windswept North Mole for this even- seurs like us. ing cruise. In fact it was so windy that my We then headed off on stage two for what (Continued on page 14)
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 13 Event Write-Ups (Continued) (Continued from page 13) range of MX-5 NDs. We waited eagerly for There was only a “minor” hiccup enter- then Zig Zag. Terrific views and, for me, the the unveiling of the RF. When it happened, ing Wanneroo Road where the instruction hairpins seem to be getting tighter over the the “oohs” and “aahs” came from the crowd said to turn right, but we eventually realised years despite better-handling cars. Then, and everyone awaited their turn to get in for it should have been left. The fruit inspectors back through Gooseberry Hill as we worked a closer look. on the highway let us off before we reached our way south to Soldiers Road. I was lucky enough get the opportunity Geraldton. We were losing a few cars because of the to take this beautiful car for a test drive! Many roundabouts were negotiated, so instructions along the way. Half the cars Accompanied by Sales Executive Tim Rose the clutch, gearbox and tyres got a good (including our esteemed leader and route I drove it along Guildford Road through the workout. On one of them, I managed to maker) took an enjoyable diversion deep Graham Farmer Freeway tunnel and up the have three cars following me doing a full into Pickering Brook to boldly go where no Mitchell freeway to the first exit and back. 360-degree turn before exiting. MX-5 has gone before to explore strange My first impression was how light it felt. Very Cruising along West Coast Drive always new routes to Canning Mills Road. little input was needed in the corners. offers a bit of candy for the eyes. The Indian Back on track, we enjoyed our run along The power difference when compared to Ocean looked absolutely beautiful. (What Soldiers Road and through Bedfordale to my NC was also noticeable. Some features I were you thinking?) the southern end of Canning Dam Road/ discovered were the Blind Spot Monitoring We can’t thank Penelope and Tony Lady McNess Drive, always fun despite star- system (handy as there is quite a significant enough for opening their wonderful home tling a few early morning Lycra-clad cyclists. blind spot) and the heated seats! Also very and to be able to enjoy home-cooked piz- Back through Canning Mill to the last of welcome on in this chilly night! The seats zas and drinks whilst overlooking a lake. our favourite twisty bits in Repatriation/ were really comfy and cabin space is fairly Desserts to “die for” capped off a wonderful Forrest Road which pretty well brought comparable to the NC. As with the NC, the outing. us to our destination, the lovely Hainault retractable roof was easy to operate with the Malcolm and Kay Wilcox were the win- Vineyard in Bickley Valley. bonus that you can operate it whilst moving ners with 12 out of 13 correct answers. Well A nice relaxed atmosphere and friendly at slow speeds. done! They received a pizza for their efforts. service made for a very pleasant breakfast It was no surprise that this was a really fun and post-run chat with participants giving car to drive. The question my mind now is Paul Andriessen the menu a thorough sampling. The Boston which colour do I choose? After Work Get Together: Beans were good. Home by mid-morning in Croquet night—21 February time for Sunday chores. Sophie Pilot Blue, Red, Black and Yellow, Blue, Red, Thank you Aart! Dawn Raids really are a Sunday Cruise: Williamsons Wan- Black and Yellow, Blue, Red, Black and great way to enjoy the MX-5 on quiet roads. derings—5 February Yellow – right, we’ve got that but which See you next time. Around nine MX-5s turned up at hoop now? Hmmm, not too sure… lots of Joondalup with seven participating on a laughter. David Currell short enjoyable drive with some questions The yearly visit of the MX-5 Club WA to Mazda MX-5 RF Reveal: Bayswater on the way. the Nedlands Croquet Club is always fun Mazda—8 February It was sort of a “greenies drive”, since a (and always cold). Around twenty of us gath- There was a great turn out for the much large part was through market gardens, so ered for pizza, a soft drink and a chat at the anticipated reveal of the MX-5 RF; 44 now I’m an expert on cauliflowers, brus- club house before we moved to the lawn and members met at Bayswater Mazda and sel sprouts and carrots. Unlike becoming the hoops. Once there, we formed teams of enjoyed the sausage sizzle cooked by Dealer an expert on cattle and pigs when David Principal, Peter Merks whilst inspecting a Masters organises a country drive. (Continued on page 15)
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
14 MX-press: January-February 2017 Event Write-Ups (Continued) (Continued from page 14) and speeches; members were entertained Andrew was pleased and surprised with the four, each team consisted of two pairs. First by seeing themselves and their MX-5s on award. ball played is always the blue one, which display. According to the program that was the partners with black; the red and yellow balls At 7:30 we sat down and our MC for end of the proceedings, but soon our MC are played by the other pair and the colour of the night, Gary Wotzko, informed us about announced “But wait, there is more.” The the ball is chosen by whoever wins the toss. housekeeping items, gave an outline of pro- induction of life member Barrie Parker. Life The height of mallet should reach half way ceedings and drew the free membership membership is the highest award available up the wrist. raffle, which was won by Ken Mackenzie, to recognise the exceptional contribution When all these technicalities were over, before we tucked into our entrees. of individuals to the club. It is therefore only the game could start. Friendly and knowl- Between the entrée and mains Warwick to be awarded in exceptional circumstances edgeable members of the Nedlands Croquet Gates and Don Messenger handed out the and Barrie certainly fits the bill; shortly after Club coached us and never gave up hope motor sport trophies for the club’s champi- joining the club in 2006 he became a com- of any of us scoring a hole in one. Initially onship Series 7: Derek Wall (Class A), Steve mittee member and contributed eight years all couples played in the same team. After James (Class B), Neil Harris (Class C) and as Treasurer from 2008 to 2016, twice as each game the coaches split the teams up Warwick Gates (Class D) were the respec- long as any treasurer preceding him. He and soon it became apparent that the ladies tive class winners. became Vice President in 2010 and is now played far better without their partners’ Between mains and dessert assisted by serving the club in his sixth consecutive year unsolicited advice. Gary Wotzko, I thanked those who had as President, again longer than anyone in the During the course of the evening the organised events since the last annual dinner. club’s history. Barrie is an active participant coaches became less involved: many of As the club’s social events are made possible in both motor sport and social events and us had either progressed to the stage that by the generous efforts of your fellow club attends most events, his general attitude and guidance was not necessary any longer or members who organise these events, well overall demeanour reflects his dedication to there was just no hope of ever getting a ball deserved recognition was given to Barrie the values of the club. through a hoop. Parker, Carol Messenger, Bob Sharpe, Kaye Barrie was flabbergasted when it was Yes, it was cold but we had so much fun. and Phil Schulz, David Turk, Alan Wallace, announced that he had been awarded life The yearly visit to the Nedlands Croquet The Messengers, Gary Wotzko, Steve Harris, membership: “I was certain that we had Club must be one of the most successful Simon Corston, Rod Willis, Paul and Judith structured the process such that the presi- social events on the club calendar. Andriessen, Pat and Colleen Gannon, dent always knew what was going on. How If you missed it this year, try to come Penelope Williamson and Tony Borger and wrong I was! My ten years with the club have along next year and when you do, just Aart ter Kuile. been extremely enjoyable thanks not only to remember the mantra: Next we drew the raffle: Phil Schulz the great cars that we all drive but also to the Blue, Red, Black and Yellow, Blue, Red, snatched the Mazda Monopoly game, wonderful, friendly people in our club. I am Black and Yellow, Blue, Red, Black and Lauren Messenger scored the ND model, truly honoured to join the company of the Yellow. Joanne ter Kuile collected the wine cooler, life members who have given so much to our Thank you, Steve for a great night. Bev Wotzko picked the NB poster, Bob club over the years.” Sharpe got a cap, Lianna went for the choc- Based on the feedback I received mem- Lianna Parker olate heart, Warwick got a polo shirt and bers enjoyed the clean spacious venue and Annual Dinner & Awards: The Saint Steve James, Lauren Messenger, Christine excellent food. Parking and the good staff George Hotel—11 February Osbourne, Kathie Masters, Lucy Hames service also received credit, so we may well The Annual Dinner and Trophy Night and Fay Martin won the table flower do it again. was held at the Saint George Hotel in arrangements. Finally, a big thank you to those that Innaloo. Attendance for club members was After dessert Barrie made his (fairly helped in getting it organised: Simon for generously sponsored by the club, making it short) annual presidential address and then providing the pictures for the slide-show a bit of a surprise that more members didn’t asked Don and Warwick to announce the and the four videos we played during the attend. club member of the year. Club member of night as well as taking photos on the night. On arrival members enjoyed canapés and the year is awarded for excellent service Don and Carol for help in setting up, Carol complementary champagne whilst Carol to the club over the previous 12 months. for running the raffle and donating some of sold raffle tickets for the Mazda Monopoly Recipients are determined by the presi- the prizes, Steve for welcoming people and game and other prizes. As on previous occa- dent based on recommendations received checking of the list of the attendees, Gary for sions, Simon Corston had created some from individual committee members. Don being the MC and Bev for keeping tabs on interesting videos and slide shows of club and Warwick praised this year’s recipient the payments. social and motor sport events that were Andrew Cathie for his unwavering assistance shown between the various presentations with the running of the motor sport events. Aart ter Kuile
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 15 Motor Sport Report wanted to test my driving skills against other out of the way so we had a bit of time to try MX-5s but there were only around a few and clean the track up and get rid of those people competing on a regular basis. Which pesky leaves and twigs. was why the series was started. Pretty much half the field had not run Now we are here, at Series 8 with nearly there before so there was a bit of apprehen- 40 drivers signing up for the season. sion about what to expect but that just adds There has been lot of work to get each to the excitement of racing. series organised and run but it has been a The day ran quite well with only a cou- great ride and this one is looking to be the ple of cars having problems (one with a kerb best yet. unfortunately) and we only had to stop the If you don’t want to compete you may be day once when an overly keen spectator interested to come along and watch what decided to walk across the track and stand in happens on as well as off the track. the middle of the racing event! If you are interested in having a go please Class A was won by newbie Shay Ward MX-5 Club Motor Sport - Series 8 check the website and contact Don when way out in front of David Hope and followed In some ways it only feels like yesterday there is a vacancy. by Ross (I’m on $40 tires) James. Last years when we set out to run a motor sport pro- Motor Sport: Series 8 Round 1 A class winner Derek Wall came in fourth gram just for our MX-5s instead of having Midvale Speed Dome is a track we have spot so things are getting a shake up already. to go along to state-run events and compete not used for a few seasons but with the RAC Class B was taken out by Michael Tite against all sorts of other cars. Centre closing its doors we were forced to from Dave Currell and Ian Dury and with- Now these were fun, a bit expensive and look for different venues. out last year’s champion Steve James in the not always run well but it was always hard It was good to see the Speed Dome again mix this year, everyone in this class will have to compete against a Lotus Elise when and things looked pretty much the same as to tussle it out. they have a 200kg weight advantage. I also last time we ran there in 2014 except the gum Class C was won by last year’s champion trees look to be shedding Neil Harris but by only 1.77 seconds over even more leaves than the whole morning from Dave Dubbelboer before and a few more and Andrew Cathie rounded out third place. Road and TRaCK Tyres - Wheels - Suspension tree roots were pushing Will things be the same as last year? their way up through the Class D has some new cars and drivers in tarmac. the mix, some of which were not at the first We all got there early to get all the pre-race jobs (Continued on page 17)
WANTED Standard MX-5 Open Differential I am doing up a 1993 NA 6 and am seeking a standard open differential to replace existing noisy one. Please contact: Contact: Phillip Blacklock Phone: 0403 800 978 Email: [email protected]
FOR SALE MX-5 extras that came from my car when traded. Tyres - Engineered in Germany. ◆◆ Car bra, complete, though it was never installed on my car. ◆◆ Tonneau cover, good condition, black, factory. ◆◆ Two Mazda lamb’s wool seat covers, good condition. Price: $300. Would prefer to sell together but would also be happy to MOTORSPORT separate. Contact: Andrew Call John: 0416 105 911 Phone: 0431 034 911 [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.johnfowlerautosport.com.au
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
16 MX-press: January-February 2017
www.zumografx.com Motor Sport (Continued) (Continued from page 16) sport community you might not know for everyone. event. Last year’s champion Warwick Gates Andrew, but inside motor sport we know From the Committee of the MX-5 Club was not able to hold out the fire-breathing him well and are very pleased that he has of WA, thank you for your outstanding con- Rod (V8 rocket) Willis from taking out the received this recognition. tribution over many years. We trust that you top spot and David Turk rounded out third. Despite Andrew being married with a will wear this honour with pride and that it Overall a great day’s racing and it was young family and a high pressure job with a will bring you enduring pleasure. good to get back in the car honing the driv- big multinational company, he is always one Thanks and congratulations, Andrew! ing skills. Lots of banter and discussions of the first to step up no matter what the task. were had in the pits as everyone discussed Everything he takes on gets sorted almost Don Messenger the off-season and what was going on with like magic. Of course it isn’t magic, behind Motor Sport Administrator what cars. his ever-present, infectious happy-go-lucky This really is going to be a great season of nature is an extremely capable person. motor sport. When I joined our club eight years ago Andrew was already an active member. At Warwick Gates every event he always helped where it was Motor Sport Manager needed the most. When I needed someone Congratulations Andrew Cathie to take on managing the competition tim- At our recent annual dinner Andrew ing, Andrew took it on and with his small Cathie was awarded Member of the Year team of assistants, relieved me of a consider- 2016. able amount of stress. Motor sport has never Unless you are a member of our motor been more enjoyable, not only for me, but Andrew Brown—New Owner of BAZGAZ “NO ONE KNOWS YOUR PASSION LIKE SHANNONS.”
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Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 17 Mazda MX-5 Fan Fest (Source: http://www.motoring.com.au/mazda-mx-5-fan-fest-smashes-records-105585/) he motoring.com.au again team Kijima, and NZ drift legend, ‘Mad’ Mike by motoring.com.au Editor in Chief, Mike Twith the MX-5 clubs for the largest gath- Whiddett. Sinclair, in the USA last year – also taking ering in the southern hemisphere, and get The millionth MX-5 made an appearance part in a speed demonstration, showing the the inside word on the model’s future. too, taking stage alongside an example of difference in lap times between standard Australia’s love affair with the MX-5 cli- each of the four generations of now 28-year- MX-5 variants, and the Cup Car, in a high- maxed at Sandown Raceway on the weekend old MX-5 line-up. speed lap of the Sandown circuit. with a record. Owners of the 477 MX-5s that hit the “Plainly, the MX-5 is a fun car to drive, eve- And as the fug from the roadster love- track travelled from all over Australia to par- ryone here has a smile on their face,” said in cleared, the count was in – a record 477 ticipate in the record-setting display. In all, Mazda Australia marketing director, Alastair MX-5s hit the Victorian circuit all at once well over 1500 enthusiasts took part in the Doak. for a parade lap that claims to be the larg- 2017 MX-5 Fan Fest. “Anybody who’s even remotely interested est gathering of the type in the Southern Speaking to motoring.com.au at MX-5 in driving understands the purity of the Hemisphere. Fan Fest, author and retired MX-5 program MX-5, the sensation that it gives you. It’s not Last year motoring.com.au teamed with manager, Professor Takao Kijima, said he the world’s fastest car, but it’s probably the the MX-5 Club of Victoria and Tasmania believed the roadster’s popularity was due world’s most fun car to drive. No car at any to take part in their National Meeting in largely to its capacity to become an exten- price point does it better, and we think that’s Tasmania. This year we were invited back as sion of the driver’s body. why people fall in love with it.” participants in the Sandown-based Mazda “Although most people have a natural pref- “Who knows what it will evolve into, as MX-5 Fan Fest, a social event incorporating erence for cars created in their own country, long as it’s true to the feelings it give the a show and shine, and track day, as well as a it makes me incredibly proud that no matter driver, then it remains an MX-5 – even if in look at the recently released MX-5 RF . where in the world I travel, the love for the 50 years’ time it’s powered by something we The family-centric day also allowed punt- MX-5 is always the same,” he enthused. can’t even imagine yet,” proffered Doak. ers the chance to meet Mazda execs and Mad Mike took several lucky punters “As long as it’s balanced, lightweight and VIPs from here and overseas – including to the track in Mazda’s MX-5 Global Cup fun to drive, that’s the real essence of the ‘father’ of the MX-5 chassis, Professor Takao Car throughout the day – the same raced MX-5.”
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
18 MX-press: January-February 2017 MX-5 Rocketeer ruce Southey wanted to add How ideal becomes clearer when you Proxes T1-R tyres on wider Rota wheels, Bpower to his Mazda MX-5 while retain- learn that the V6, with its aluminium block and great scope for steering ultra-accurately ing its agility and response, so he installed a and heads, weighs much the same as the on the throttle in a way that a turbo conver- lusty V6. original iron-block Mazda motor. And with sion, or a nose-heavy V8, might not. The There’s something wrong with this aural a suitable adapter plate, designed by Southey, tail powerslides on an instant whim should picture. I’m seeing a Mazda MX-5 Mk1 but I it mates to the original Mazda gearbox, the road be slippery, but it’s just as eas- seem to be hearing a Jaguar F-Type, rich V6 which is well able to take the extra torque. ily brought back into line. It’s a complete blare, exhaust crackles and all. The original final drive is also retained, as are dynamic delight, and all the better for retain- The MX-5, the world’s most popular the original springs and dampers. ing the road feel that the standard, supple sports car breed, has always been a bundle So what does change in the Mazda suspension offers. of fun, but it has never been quite like this. beyond its beating heart? Most significantly, So what do you get for your money? You What’s going on? the front subframe. The standard item leaves get the subframe, a plug-and-play engine After all, through the MX-5’s 27 years and no room for the V6’s exhaust manifolds, so loom and ECU compatible with all the four generations, the factory has never built Southey has designed a new one with space MX-5’s electrics, a twin-pipe exhaust sys- a really potent one. Never a turbocharger where required but strength retained. It’s not tem including manifolds, the flywheel and (except now, in Fiat’s version, the 124 on our one-off prototype, which uses a mod- sump (both fully machined, bespoke items), Spider) (and in OZ the NB SE and NB SP… ified tubular item for V8 conversions, but it the adapter plate, an uprated clutch, the car- Ed), and never more than four cylinders. will be part of the Rocketeer kit that Southey bonfibre plenum chambers, an electric water A missed opportunity? No, the factory plans to sell at £5995 plus VAT. To that, you pump and all the hoses, filters, brackets has always said. The sports car has always must add the engine itself, readily available and fasteners needed. Plus instructions, of been about lightness, simplicity and balance, second-hand for a few hundred pounds, plus course. The kit is suitable for Mk2s as well as not brute force and mad speed. Yes, the tun- a second MX-5 1.8 throttle body and idle Mk1s, and a weekend or two should see the ing industry has said, and backed it up with control valve. Or two of each if your starting transplant completed. numerous forced-induction conversions point is an early 1.6. Southey needs 25 deposits before he plus, in the US, some shoehorned-in V8s. That sounds like a lot of money to shower can trigger manufacture of the Rocketeer However, very few have gone the V6 on an old Mazda, but it makes sense when kit. Meanwhile, he’s building a second, route – making the MX-5 Rocketeer some- we look at what’s in the kit. First, though, Mk2-based prototype with representative thing of a novelty. It’s the brainchild of what is a Jaguar V6-powered MX-5 really pre-production parts. The first one is an Bruce Southey: day job, a Ford ‘user expe- like? And would you want one? absolute hoot to drive and I, for one, wish rience’ engineer; previous life, a partner in Your resistance will weaken as soon as him well. You can find out more at the Overfinch, which used to stuff huge engines the engine catches. It blips keenly, its exhaust Rocketeer MX-5website. in Range Rovers to great effect; hobby, note a brassy blare with a crackling-crisp designing interesting car stuff and making edge. This prototype has the six-speed gear- Bob Sharpe it work. Among previous projects was the box that was optional in some early MX-5s, engineering of the Bristol Fighter. its shift less snickety than the five-speeder With an MX-5 in his garage that he but the ratios closer. It’s not necessary with wanted to make faster, Southey had a brain- the V6’s torque, but it adds to the sense of wave. “I love the MX-5,” he says, “so I wanted near-continuous thrust. to keep what it has – the agility, the imme- There’s plenty of that, with rich pull from diate response – and give it more. So not a low revs right up to the limiter, all in a light turbo, and not a V8, which might overpower car that seems to have very little inertia. This it. Something like an Alfa V6, maybe? Then prototype is running on six small throttle I stumbled upon this engine, and I realised it bodies, whose intakes sit very close to the would be ideal.” bonnet’s underside, a breathing restriction This article is edited from the February This engine is the Jaguar variation of that flattens the pace after 6000rpm or so, edition of Autocar, a pommie car mag. Ford’s Duratec V6, in 3.0-litre guise with but the Rocketeer kit will include a pair of Thanks to Ash Price for drawing it to our 24 valves and, as installed in an early 2000s proper carbonfibre plenums, fed by those attention. S-Type, 240bhp. Related engines powered MX-5 1.8 throttle bodies, and it should rev It is worth noting that in the Jul-Aug various X-Types and the Ford Mondeo to the heavens. 2016 issue of MX-press we presented Don ST24, but the S-Type version’s longitudinal Even as it is, the Rocketeer feels Porsche Messenger’s V6 race car project. Don now mounting makes it ideal for transplanting Cayman quick, it sounds fantastic and its has his V6 MX-5 running and nearly ready into the Mazda, as Southey’s 3D scan of it chassis and suspension cope fine. There’s to race in 2017. More details on Don’s V6 soon proved. loads of grip, helped by 195/50 R15 Toyo MX-5 in the next issue of MX-press.
Mazda
Club of Western Australia
MX-press: January-February 2017 19 We’re proudly supporting the MX-5 Club OF Western AustraliA
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