The quarterly magazine of the Mazda MX-5 Club of NSW Inc.

NSW SUPERSPRINTS detailed report for rounds one and two NC3A NIGHT AT THE OPERA new34 LUCKY aggressive MEMBERS look RECEIVE A GIFT FROM MAzDA AUSTRALIA THE MX2012 AUTUMN 2013 four days of glorious driving Print Post Publication: PP381712/02600 the quarterly magazine of the mazda MX-5 club of nsw inc. AUTUMN 2013

he cricket players have bowled their Tlast over. The only surfers left in the NEIL HAMILTON-RITCHIE water are depraved individuals, covered Publications Officer in wetsuits with only their feet and AUTOMOTIVE COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE Graphic Designer hands visible, searching for that perfect Photographer barrel ride. Tracksuits are now more commonplace across the shopping malls ‘06 Galaxy Grey PRHT of the state where once before singlets, Supercharged NC boardies and thongs reigned supreme. It’s autumn folks. It’s here in all its leaf shedding, wind blowing nastiness. Even We provide the ANDREW LORD nature is depressed at the mere thought Editor of autumn. Trees shed their garments in disgust. Lawn refuses to grow at the ‘01 Brilliant Black NB8B professional rapid rate it did but a few weeks before. Birds begin the process of stockpiling for the winter ahead. Amid the doom and gloom of the impending abyss that we service you wanT slide into for six months of the year, there TIMOTHY HEPPELL is one species that refuses to heed the Editor news. They are the MX-5ers! 2wd or 4wd dyno-tuning & power runs Photographer They maraud across alpine regions, tops Computer diagnosis, upgrades & re-mapping ‘06 True Red down, thumbing their noses at the chilly Supercharged NC winds. They dine arrogantly outdoors at Auto electrical services, overhauls & re-wiring idyllic coastal locations, enjoying ocean views and braving the sea breeze whilst Fuel injection diagnosis, servicing & upgrades sipping a latte after a cruise along one BREAKFAST of the state’s many seaside highways. ECU diagnosis, repairs & upgrades 8 CLUB They attack motorsport tracks of varying difficulty, paying scant regard to the Weight-corrected steering alignments & repairs MIXED RUNS cool track conditions that can make Suspension testing, repair, overhaul & upgrade 10 optimum tyre temperature so difficult to achieve. They’re a hardy breed. They’re Exhaust modification, bending & upgrades HUNTER 19 out almost every weekend. And they’re 14 driving on roads near you. Brake testing, overhaul, upgrade & machining MID NORTH Still need more motivation to join this COAST intrepid band of adventurers? We’ve 16 got you covered. Read of trips to the south coast in fancy dress. Marvel at the RPM driving skill that a trip to the Bathurst www.acdcptyltd.com.au 18 38 12hour can only provide. Be drawn in by the suspense that a Canberra Mystery illawarra Tour can bring. Let your cultural instincts 23 Kemble Court Mitchell ACT 2911 22 be inspired by the wonder of Opera by the Harbour. Ph: 02 6262 2680 Mob: 0417 269 325 canberra So tell autumn to stick its cold winds and [email protected] 26 nude trees well and truly up its jumper. Jump in your MX-5, lower that roof and motorsport 40 blast off to your favourite twisty road. 31 Best, The Torque Team. where the participants follow along Member of the Year look and feel of Club Torque, and I wish behind a leader and the group is kept Have you ever wondered why you are him well in his adventures. Timothy together as best as possible. An issue required to sign-on at the start of a Club Heppell is quite keen to learn some with any convoy is that the “rubber run? The first reason is a legal one: to graphic design and has volunteered to band effect” comes into play - even acknowledge that you have a registered take over as Publications Officer after the though the leader is maintaining an even and insured car, hold a current and winter issue. Neil will be helping him get pace at or around the speed limit, those valid drivers licence, and that you have accustomed to Adobe InDesign for the further back in the group find themselves received and will abide by our Club’s spring issue. So in future, Timothy will be compressed at one moment, then the Code of Conduct. Secondly, providing designing the magazine and Andrew will next there is a large gap and they feel your mobile phone number allows the be assisting with proofing. compelled to catch up. run leader to track you down if you get lost on the road. Thirdly, participants The rubber band effect tends to be more accumulate points towards the Member pronounced on BreakFast Club runs, of the Year (MOTY) and New Member where more technically challenging of the Year (NMOTY) awards. The routes and higher corner speeds tend to awards are aimed at acknowledging and LIKE US ON spread the group even further. Therefore, further encouraging individual member FACEBOOK we have decided to discontinue use involvement in Club activities. Those of “convoy rules” for BreakFast Club who organise, assist or officiate in events It has taken us a while, but we events, and are trialling the use of accumulate even more points, while those have finally launched an official PRESIDENT’S BRIEF “waypoint rules” instead. That is, each Facebook Page to promote our by Bryan Shedden who provide articles or photos for Club member will follow a pre-determined Torque or the website are also rewarded. Club activities. The page provides Welcome to another edition of Club Torque. When I first sat down to write this article, I was struggling to think route at their own pace, regrouping at The MOTY and NMOTY awards have a place for ALL members to receive the latest MX-5 news items, what I’d cover – it’s been such a busy few months. The words flowed freely after that, so please bear with me. waypoints along the way and then at the previously been limited to those events breakfast venue at the end. Our feeling organised from the Sydney region. communicate with each other, and is that eliminating the convoy should be aware of what is happening in new club website allow users to notify of their intention • A “Talking Technical” section will However, the Committee has decided reduce the chance of speeding on these that in future this award would recognise the Club. It’s a different experience I’m very pleased to report that we to attend an event. provide a variety of tricks and tips for runs, as there will be no compulsion to participation in ALL events organised to what the new website will deliver, are very close to launching our brand your MX-5. • Reports, photos and videos from recent keep together as a convoy. within the Club, including track days and and provides us with another new, professionally designed website. events will be featured in a News • A complete library of all Club Chapter runs. The full details of these level of communication. If you’re The Committee has chosen to invest a section so that members can get more magazines since 1990 will be available The MX-5 Club of Western Australia has awards can be read in By-Law No.3 registered with Facebook, please significant portion of the Club’s equity immediate feedback on what the Club to download. been a strong advocate of waypoint rules of our Constitution, which is available visit and LIKE us. We encourage all into this project, and after a rigorous has been up to. for many years, and the MX-5 Club of members to get involved by posting • We will continue to utilise IMG on the Club website. Starting with the selection process we awarded the work to Queensland has recently adopted them some photos, giving feedback on • Chapters will have their own Sporting Technology for the 2012/13 Club year concluding on 31st the Sydney web developer Daemon, using too. At present, we feel that convoy rules events, or just asking a question. section of the website, which will management of our membership October, MOTY and NMOTY will be a the FarCry content management system. are still appropriate for all other Club If Facebook has not entered your be automatically fed with an Events system and accepting payments for truly prestigious Club-wide award! They commenced working on the designs runs. Dependent on the outcome of our life until now, why not use this Calendar and News relevant to each Club events. in early March, and I gave a sneak trial of the waypoint rules at BreakFast opportunity to give it a try! Chapter. The look and feel of these preview at the recent Sydney Members Club runs, we may reconsider this policy Committee Changes Chapter sections will be retained across Night. Here is an outline of what you Club Runs and the Rubber in future. Where possible, a slower David Lawler has volunteered to fill a www.facebook.com/MX5ClubNSW the entire site, encouraging a sense of can expect from the new website when it Band Effect group will be set up within convoy runs, renamed role of Website Coordinator, launches within the next month or two: unity for the Club. The Mazda MX-5 Club of NSW tries especially if longer distances are involved. replacing the Events Calendar Most of our regional Chapters • The Buy & Sell section will feature a to offer different styles of events that Coordinator. David will be responsible already have Facebook Groups. • A powerful content management facility where members can submit the will appeal to a broad range of our Detailed route descriptions are usually for managing the hosting and technical There will inevitably be some system will make it simple and easy words and photos for their ads directly, membership. However, it’s not always provided for all Club events - often support relationship with Daemon; overlap between the Facebook Page for all Committee members and their and manage updates themselves. It clear to members what they should well in advance of the run. We coordinating training and instruction which represents the entire Club, helpers to add new content to the site. will look like a cut-down version of expect when they join a run. To help encourage members to study these on the use of the website for other and the Facebook Groups that • Club events are the most important carsales.com.au, and ad placement will address this, we have recently begun route descriptions in advance, and committee members and volunteers who focus on regional areas, but there’s thing we do and the Event Calendar be free to members. to assign each individual Sydney or utilise a SatNav if they have one, pre- will submit content; and managing the no harm in that. Join them all and programmed with the entire route, or just IMG payment system for events. Thank you won’t miss a thing! Just search will be featured more prominently with • Club regalia will be available to BreakFast run with a rating according to the regrouping points, depending on their you David, volunteering to take on this Facebook for the following group a clean and easy-to-read design. Users preview and order directly through a a grading scale, so that members have an preference. The run leader’s mobile phone important job is greatly appreciated. names and send a request to join. will be able to filter the list by category shopping cart facility. idea of whether it’s likely to be the style (Motorsport, Sydney, Canberra, of run that they enjoy. number is also provided if members Hunter, etc), so that they can easily see • A Gallery section will enable us to become lost. The point is that members I was sad to hear that Neil Hamilton- MX-5 Club – Canberra Chapter the events that interest them. Individual display photos and videos hosted An ongoing challenge we face is should not feel pressured to drive at a Ritchie has decided to sell his MX-5 and MX-5 Club – Hunter Chapter event pages will feature an embedded on sites such as Flickr and YouTube. managing Club runs which may involve pace they are not comfortable with. travel the world next year in pursuit MX-5 Club – Illawarra Chapter Google map of the starting point or Members can share their photos much 20 or more cars. Traditionally, we’ve of his interest in photography. Neil has MX-5 Club – RPM Chapter route. A “Book Now” button will more easily through this service. tended to operate runs in “convoy”, done a wonderful job on refreshing the

4 Club Torque Club Torque 5 NSW MEMBERSHIP REPORT SYDNEY current membership

New members TOTAL 45

Please check your membership card to check if you are financial. If you are unfinancial you should have received a renewal reminder via email. If you didn’t receive this your email address is incorrect 621[financial] on the system. Please contact membership and give them your new email address. If you are unfinancial and don’t want to re-join please contact us so we can adjust the system.

COMMITTEE NEW members President: Bryan Shedden Hunter Convenor: Peter Hilkmann [email protected] 0422 340 010 [email protected] 0404 911 640 Welcome! Vice President: Robert Forsyth Illawarra Convenor: Peter Feutrill Rosemary Aldred Wayne Hunt [email protected] 0408 470 921 [email protected] 0409 453 322 midweek Tony Aldred Andrew Jeffery Treasurer: Marie Smart RPM Convenor: Lesa Bunn Hendy Atmaja Christine Jeffery [email protected] 0413 434 017 [email protected] 0423 276152 Kevin Attrill Martin Lanza Secretary: Mark Garven Mid North Coast Convenor: Peter Josephine Bartlett Doris Louie [email protected] 0406 321 554 Rodgers [email protected] patonga Curran Brennan Timothy Louie 0422 237 588 Club Captain: Michael Soulos 5 th february 2013 // Report by Noel La Rose Stephen Brennan Anne Lukasiak [email protected] 0413 113 399 Ex-Officio Representatives photos by robert quinlan & cathie curran Winton Brocklebank Ed Lukasiak Membership Database: Keith Monaghan Competition/Event Secretary: Jason Brown Gordon Mackenzie [email protected] 0418 976 279 Zan Menzel [email protected] The 5th of February 2013 was the first all had a cuppa, signed on, had short and lunching. We all got a shock when Ph/Fax 02 6558 4190 Grant Bunn Jocelyn Mackenzie Membership: Ken & Maggie Liston Cruiser run for the year, and also my first briefing and then we were off. Apart Brad said he had bought a Mercedes, but Jodie Carty John Makris 0412 094 919 Webmaster: Robert Gage experience as run leader. On the morning from slowing a few times to regroup after assured us it was only his “other car.” [email protected] 0409 450 906 Robert Clarke Mark Mansell Competition: Mike Hicks of the run the first thing I did was to look traffic lights, we formed a wonderful Jean was still lamenting her old Heritage Amanda Considine Sheila Montgomery [email protected] 0419 201 588 Club Vice Captain: up at the skies to see if it was going to convoy of clean, colourful MX-5’s. As NB, while Ken, Maggie, Franck & Marg Victor Lee [email protected] Steven Considine Ian Napier Publications: Neil Hamilton-Ritchie 0433 110 303 be a top down affair. We were in luck! there wasn’t much traffic on the road were planning their next overseas cruise. Phillip Donnelley Alex Shedden [email protected] 0411 782 251 Patonga is one of the more popular runs we could keep to the upper speed limits, After lunch everybody started to leave. Club Torque Editors: Michael Dunning Mary Stewart Website Coordinator: David Lawler Andrew Lord 0414 323 726 as the Old Pacific High way doesn’t get winding our way up the magnificent Shaun was going north to his boat “Old Laurie Gallagher Paul Stuart [email protected] 0403 070 644 Timothy Heppell 0403 079 018 used as much these days since the F3 was Pacific Highway around the roundabouts Salt.” Norm & Roz were off to Canberra, Garry Gibson Christopher Tiffany Regalia: Pam & Ray Estreich Buy & Sell Coordinator: born! at Woy Woy to arrive at Patonga. Astrid & Aileen off to the Hunter. A few [email protected] 0428 970 998 Janis Gibson Robert Tito Brendan Barr [email protected] of us made our way back to the “Pie.” Margaret Hamilton Peter Ward Social Secretary: Lesa & Greg Bunn 0404 380 819 The meeting venue was Maccas Mt The overwhelming, decision was to go to The road from Somersby to Calga must [email protected] 0423 276 152 Lena Hill Ken Willenbrock Colah. There was an excellent turn up the “Chip Shop” instead of the Pub for rate as one of the better MX-5 roads Wesley Hill Mark Wilson Canberra Convenor: Mazda MX-5 Club of NSW Inc. of 15 cars, who all had a very early start lunch, so we pulled all the tables together around. I was able to give my new Pirelli Bricet Klören & Bob Judd Sue Hunt PO Box 402, Beecroft NSW 2119 to get through the morning traffic. We and spent the next hour or so talking P7s a good workout. [email protected] 0422 386 660 www.mx5.com.au/nsw

6 Club Torque Sydney 7 BREAKFASTCLUB What are you wearing to berry?! 10th february 2013 // Report by andrew lord & photos by Kaitlin west

Wollondilly hamlets of Appin, Douglas On a murky February morning, several Park, Picton, Thirlmere and Couridjah shadowy figures emerged from Heathcote where the straights are long and corners McDonalds. Children scurried back fast flowing. Motoring into the Southern into the safety of their booster seats, Highlands the famous faces were ensconced in the security of their Kia recognised in Aylmerton and Kanglaloon Carnivals. Cyclists quickly donned before stopping to meet with fans at the their helmets and left their double shot famous Robertson Pie Shop. The roads espressos still steaming in their mugs through the Southern Highlands were a to make a hasty getaway. Weary truck hit with the celebs due to the picturesque drivers scrambled back into their sweet country landscape that borders the tight, smelling cabs and taxied out onto the undulating tarmac. After numerous Princess Highway. autographs the mob marauded down the mountain to Jamberoo and onwards to Into a waiting cache of superbly Kiama, wowing the café set with their presented MX-5’s strode Sir Les meticulous Mazdas. Patterson, The Man from Snowy River, Pele, Osama Bin Laden, Mario and Luigi Finally the tour came to rest in Berry at and a trio of dapper gentleman among the Sourdough Café to enjoy breakfast a gaggle of other well-known identities. and swap tales regarding the perils of What does a gathering of esteemed international first class travel and narrow international celebrities do on a misty escapes from the paparazzi. With the Sunday morning? Embark on a morning bellies full, the adoring fans sated and of spirited driving and indulge in a the staff at the Sourdough breathless gourmet breakfast on the south coast of after their brush with fame, the intrepid NSW of course! celebrities again boarded their chariots and headed back to their mansions, The celebrity motorcade took in the private jets and publicists. All agreed to delights of the Princess Highway before meet again next year – busy schedules heading back inland to sample the allowing!

8 BreakFast Club BreakFast Club 9 BREAKFAST SYDNEY RPM APPLE poem by julie & mark sando It was a bright but cool morning when at Heathcote we met, We were trusting it wouldn’t rain so we don’t all get wet! ORCHARD RUN We left right on time heading south to the Park, th 17 march 2013 // Report by chris rhodes All together except the lead car with Julie & Mark. & photos by timothy heppell, Julie sando & robert quinlan With Pete on the radio, “How can you lead from behind?” Sunday brought a crisp 7am meet at Whew! Did someone up front burn some We finally regrouped at Waterfall into one line. Macca’s Eastern Creek for my maiden rubber? Surely not an NC with factory The park was brilliant with light filtering through the trees, BreakFast Club Run. After a coffee & fitted ABS & traction control. It must In an MX-5 we all took the tight turns with the greatest of ease. a briefing we donned jackets and buffs have been one of the NAs leading the Then down the old highway to the turnoff for Appin, to ward off the dropping temperatures, pack. No, our next stop at Robertson With 17 cars, let’s hope nothing happens. and off we went. About a dozen MX-5s revealed the truth. It was the inattentive Broughton Pass, a one lane bridge, we’re forced to stop & stay, including a beautifully restored yellow driver of the Excel coming in the other for a group of at least 20 learners who would not give way! NB and one MR2. direction, obviously playing with his When we finally got over the bridge, the road was quite clear, phone, when a dozen MX-5s came up the other side we drove in top gear. Thanks to the marvels of modern around the corner. You just don’t see that Lesa & 4 RPMers were waiting at Picton with coffee in hand, technology I was able to download the every day! How quickly can you text with the Cruisers we headed to the Orchard as planned. Google map with all the waypoints “I just burnt a hole in my underpants?” Meeting up with the Breakfast club meant 30 cars in all, emailed to the GPS, so no chance of Robertson Pie Shop was another quick we all bought and taste tested at the vegetable stall. getting lost here. Recalculate, do a U pit-stop, so many cars amongst so few We said goodbye to a few who then headed home, turn, recalculate do a U turn. After 5 motorbikes, this is how it should be. minutes of this Matilda, the voice of or maybe they had other plans and were off for a roam. Garmin Australia has an ovarian moment More glorious highland back roads with It was then off to Lake Alexandra for a great picnic lunch, and shuts down. What to do now? What twists and turns until our breakfast stop We had a great afternoon because we are such a good bunch!! ever did we do in the good old days? at Sutton Forest. Now its time to talk, Matilda and I kept up so we weren’t cars of course. Then it’s off to Yerrinbool. left behind, so that’s how we managed. Driving around the Southern Highlands Wonderful rural back roads led us to our is always a delight especially with the first stop, time to regroup and admire roof down, just in time to meet the accessories, then off again, no time for Sydney Cruisers and buy some apples. idle chit chat here. Let’s get down to some serious business, admire cars and take a good look at Over hills and down dales, valleys filled all that we have been listening to and with sporty roadster exhaust echoes. looking at the last couple of hours. Down gears, down to a really tight curved section, what a great little car! Well done to the Breakfast Club Why do I like this car so much? Is it the organisers for the challenging drive. A sweet gear change, the soft clutch, the good turnout, great company and fine responsive steering or the supple active food. Count me in as a regular from suspension? This thing is stock standard, now on. it shouldn’t be this good.

10 Club Torque Club Torque 11 BREAKFAST SYDNEY saints &

13th sinnersapril 2013 // Report by adam walker & photos by victor lee Autumn has to be the best time of the After a brief stop on the outskirts of Time was getting on and we were all year for an early morning top down Richmond it was back in the driver’s feeling a bit peckish. It was time for the drive. Myself along with 11 fellow seat for a back road run along Grose final stage and the second ferry crossing members and 5 potential future members Vale Road crossing the Bell’s Line. A for the day at Webb’s Creek and to head rolled into the Westbound McDonalds on blast through Blaxland Ridge Road had up to the historic Settlers Arms Hotel Report by ray jowett from sydney run the M4 Motorway. As the morning fog us greeting the old MX-5 friendly, Putty at St Albans to meet up with the later cleared, the sun came out and we were Road. departing Cruiser run for lunch and some Wow, what a great route starting at stretch of road going down the Galston the boys. Unfortunately, a gap started to greeted with a sensational cloudless day. much needed caffeine. St Ives and 135kms later finishing up pass which again if you are lucky you grow between the front cars and the rest A left turn off the Putty had us headed at St Albans but it wasn’t without its have as a clear road ahead for some of the pack and so we found ourselves After a quick coffee and briefing down to our first ferry crossing at Lower No better way to spend a Saturday problems. great bends and turns, unfortunately, this travelling sedately along Cliftonville outlining our new Waypoint system we Portland. With the amount of cars on morning and everyone had a great time! was not to be. So a leisurely drive and a Road hoping that the others would all clambered into our cars, dropped the run, the ferry had to do a second So as the run suggests there’s a lot of rare opportunity to take in the fantastic catch up. Alas the road behind remained the roof and headed west on the Great trip to get us to the other side and for a Saints around, however, amongst them scenery and then onto the next pick up empty and so we assumed that they had Western Highway. A quick left turn had run along the narrow twisty River Road was a novice, yours truly ZZ00MX. point; this would be the first time the continued along River Road to the ferry us moving along the escarpment and hugging the Hawkesbury. Just when you think that you’ve got all Cruisers had arranged two start points crossing. down towards Richmond. the bases covered, you begin to realise (maybe a lesson learned). Enter stage that even the smallest oversights can right the next oversight, as the Google All was not lost for at the ferry crossing have an impact and for me it was not map had a different pick-up point to we all managed to get back together, double-checking the instructions. So we that in the instructions – luckily we got a that’s when the novice managed to upset started off by having two meeting places phone call telling us where another seven the ferry captain by trying to queue in at St Ives, at both the Maccas and the cars were waiting for us just as we were the wrong lane; the little prima donna designated carpark, however, we did approaching the Galston roundabout, so wasn’t having a bar of it and he made manage to get everyone together before we could make a route change. me reverse the length of the ferry to join setting off a bit late. It was great to see a at the back. At this point the end was in few new faces, new members and others So the word luck has been used a few sight, albeit 20kms away, and we saw that came along to see what all the fun times but up until that point we didn’t several of the Breakfast Club members was about. feel too lucky and now we had thirteen coming back, they must have wondered cars in our little troupe!!! what had taken us so long, which I’m So off we go, six cars in convoy heading sure would not have dispelled any of for Bobbin Head Road and the winding Once we had all managed the right turn the myths surrounding the speed of the downhill to the marina and picnic area. onto Old Northern Road we were back Cruisers! As luck would have it we copped a cyclist in the zone of adventure with a great, and a more “conservative” driver; a long run along Cattai Ridge Road which Finally arriving at the Settlers Arms Inn, heavy sigh of relief was drawn when they we had all to ourselves. The problems at it was time to relax in the garden, eating turned off at the picnic spot which left the start were beginning to fade as we a pub lunch and sipping a cold beer and us with a clear run up the Ku-Ring-Gai headed for the next piece of interesting most of all exchanging stories, all of Chase Road. road, down the Sackville Ferry Road and which helped to turn this novice into a right into River Road, a hectic 15km run sinner. Now we were heading for the next great which started to separate the men from

12 Club Torque Club Torque 13 HUNTER

shoh w & Shine 17 march 2013 // Report by mark gray & photos by bryan shedden Our weekend started on Saturday model category, NA-NB-NC and didn’t A reverse show n shine was awarded to when our club president, Bryan they look awesome! Even the owners of Deborah Webb for her daily driven NB. Shedden, arrived to join a Hunter run the “daily drivers” had given their cars a to experience firsthand how much fun “spit and polish”. Lots of fun and friendly banter was had we have. Numbers unfortunately were regarding how the awards were decided down on our usual runs with many Judging was done by our president and and Bryan gave an insight into the MX-5 regulars away due to work and personal Mark’s mate, Anthony Van Der Vliet, Club and ideas for expansion. commitments. owner of the BMW, who is a serious detailer of cars. Bribery and corruption After the awards some sampled and Sunday started out fine and sunny and was all in good fun while the lunch purchased the local vino before bidding by the look of some of the cars, the show was being cooked on a couple of dodgy farewell to everyone. I’m sure 2013 and shine had started early. There were electric BBQs. entrants will be thinking up tactics for 9 vehicles (including a 2008 BMW 335I the 2014 Hunter Show n Shine and those convertible) in the run which started at After our lovely lunch the presentation of that missed it will be kicking themselves our usual meeting point of BP Beresfield. prizes was made; and waiting for their turn in 2014. We headed out for a short run over some new MX-5 roads and managed to reach NA – John and Gaye Morgan In the words of Max Kelly, “it was the our destination without losing any cars! NB – Mark and Lynda Gray absolute best run”. NC – Max and Shan Kelly Wyndham Estate Vineyard was our 2013 Overall Winner – Keep on cruising in the Hunter, destination for a BBQ lunch and judging John and Gaye Morgan in their NA Your run leader Mark! of our MX-5s. The cars were lined up in

14 Hunter Hunter 15 MIDCOAST NORTH

A RUN TO SOUTH WEST ROCKS RUN to ARAKOON GLOUCESTER 13th april 2013 // Report & photos by peter rodgers 9 th february 2013 // Report by Peter Rodgers photos by keiran rodgers The weather forecast was for rain but we As it still hadn’t rained we set off for wet weather gear, the walk was cancelled On a fine Saturday morning we set partaking in some tucker from Maccas, Then it was off to the Hillview Herb set off from home with the roof down, Arakoon along the Pacific Highway in favour of an early lunch. off for our run to Gloucester via Port 15 cars with 25 onboard set off down Farm for a superb home cooked lunch wondering whether we would get to but detoured onto the old highway at Macquarie, Landsdown and Taree. the beautiful (though potholed) Bucketts sitting on the verandah. After lunch, the Rivermark Café in Port Macquarie Telegraph Point so that we could get Lunch was the usual convivial affair with Way to Gloucester. Even with the Karen gave us a very interesting talk on without having to put the roof up - a few kilometres of winding roads in conversation ranging from cars to the Six cars, including Patrick who drove potholes and questionable road surface, herbs and the history of her herb farm, we didn’t! As we were out having the before rejoining the highway to travel afterlife! Then we drove up to Smoky up from Buladelah set off from Port the Bucketts Way is a great drive through we then had the opportunity to check morning cuppa, Mark the local Mazda to Kempsey. At Kempsey we turned off Cape Lighthouse – another great MX-5 Macquarie to take the long and not so some beautiful countryside with the out the gardens and purchase some tasty Dealer Principal took a call on his the highway to follow the Macleay River road and then tackled the hill up to direct road to Maccas at Glenthorne, required winding roads. supplies. It was then time to go home mobile, then turned around to tell us that most of the way to the sea, slowing down the lighthouse on foot. Apart from the south of Taree where we were to meet with some heading south and some we are about to get another new club at Gladstone to allow Leon and Jill from amazing view, we had the pleasure of the rest of our contingent for the drive to The next stop was at the Lions Lookout north. member. Mark just sold a blue NB8B and Bellingen to join the convoy. Now we watching an osprey glide low overhead Gloucester. above Gloucester where MX-5’s totally he gives away a club membership with had six cars with eleven onboard. We for a few minutes. dominated the parking area. In fact we A big thanks to Zan Menzel for selecting each MX-5 sold. We’re looking forward managed to travel all the way to our Waiting for us at Maccas were another were stretched out so far that it was quite and organising our lunch venue and to to meeting our newest member! We had lunch stop at Arakoon with the tops All good things must come to an end, so nine cars from as far afield as Armidale a challenge getting all the cars into the Keiran for the photos. nine for our morning cuppa including down and had just set out for a walk it was time to say farewell to new and and Newcastle as well as some from the photo shoot. new members Kevin and Carole who when the rain came down. Fortunately all old friends and head for home - with the southern areas of our chapter. So after drove up from Wingham to join us. the roofs were up, but as few of us had roof down!

16 Mid North Coast Mid North Coast 17 RPM RPM SYDNEY

j th enolan Run 24 february 2013 // Report by lesa bunn photos by chris flak BATHURST 12Hr This was the first combined run for RPM As usual over a cup of tea or coffee without any hesitation. We drove up the and Sydney chapters. Leading up to the with cakes and slices being handed to winding road to come out to sunshine weekend there were many emails flying anyone who felt hungry, photos were and beautiful, fresh countryside. At the Weekend Run around. The main point of discussion? taken, great yarns were told about our Oberon Information Centre we meet up 9–10th february 2013 // Report & photos by Joe Kovacic “What will the weather be doing?” With driving skills and the performance of with Tony and Moira King who took An enticing sunny morning greeted 6 the pace car and the Toyotas around Vantage, Mercedes SLS AMG, Audi R8, the great storms and heavy rains resulting cars and so on. No rain, so off we went us on a back road drive to our lunch enthusiastic MX-5 club cars for our run the circuit doing only 60km/h, but Porsche GT3 and many more cars all in flooding in country NSW and Sydney, for the drive down through the caves destination. After a scrumptious lunch to the legendary Mt Panorama, Bathurst nevertheless we enjoyed the moment on lined up on the starting grid. The Team contingency talks were held. The question and then up the other side to Oberon. small groups joined like minded drivers 12hr weekend. Considering the short the mountain and at least we could drive Erebus Mercedes won the event followed to be answered? “Where would we be The caves. Mmmmmmmm. The sound to take varied drives back to Sydney. notice and the number of other events with our tops down. Most of us had by the Ferrari 458 and the Porsche GT3. having morning tea and meeting up with of the engine roar through the cave arch Another good day was had by all. over the weekend, to meet an additional dinner that night at the old Kelso Hotel the upper Blue Mountains members?” As was a magnificent mmmmmmmm. With 6 MX-5s in Bathurst was a credible effort to exchange stories on a most exciting This was my first club event that I had we are not clairvoyants it was decided that little extra rev of the engine just to Thanks to all and special thanks to and saw our number soar to 12. Upon day. organised. I would like to thank Lesa that if worst came to the worst we would make sure that the mmmmmmm sound Franck & Marg Verheyen for leading arrival we were inundated by the excited Bunn from the RPM chapter for all have to have our cup of tea in the car. was as it should be, we were satisfied the Sydney group, Ray & Pam Estreich Toyota 86 club who shared the club car Sunday morning was an early 7am her help. Next year, I will endeavour that the engine was OK so we slowly for leading the group over the mountain park with us. start for the 12hr race. The full grid to organise this exciting weekend The day came, the sun was out and mmmmmmmed through the cave. and through the caves, Tony & Moira of 55 exotic international race cars of Motorsport earlier, giving us the with cars packed with rain coats and taking us on new roads that had not been We all enjoyed the morning festivities was spectacular. There were some of opportunity to out number the Toyota umbrellas we set off. With the new NC3s The drive up out of the caves was quite a experienced before and of course Lesa while anxiously awaiting our parade the world’s best production cars in 86ers! Diarise this event as a must do on (had to get that in) we led the group up challenge with the driving skills of many Bunn for making all the arrangements lap around the legendary Mt Panorama attendance including a Ferrari 458, the weekend of 8/9th Feb 2014. and over the mountain for morning tea drivers tested. After the storms the road which allowed us to enjoy our day. circuit. Unfortunately we had to follow Lamborghini LP560, Aston Martin at Little Hartley Court House. There we was full of tree branches, leaves and were met by fellow MX-5ers who were rubbish but the MX-5s did not miss a awaiting our arrival. beat and met this challenge head on and

18 RPM RPM 19 RPM a Weekend at

st orange 20–21 april 2013 // Report by Lesa bunn photos by julie sando

by the local publican to eat at the festival. A short debrief occurred back at the ex- servicemen’s club adjacent to our motel before retiring for the evening.

Following breakfast most people took advantage of the great weather and headed in to the very pretty Cook Park to sample and stock up on some of Orange’s finest foods. Time for a quick run up Mt Canobolas before heading out to Gnoo Blas circuit, a street circuit set on rural Pouring rain up to an hour before set off Lena Hill who were on their first MX-5 roads. When Gnoo Blas was opened in time from Glenbrook as well as cold, fog club event, a chilly cold introduction 1953, it was 6.03km long and in its time and wind cutting to the bone threatened to convertibles. Club members Tony was established as the fastest circuit in to ruin a good weekend for 35 MX-5ers and Moira King took the lead and Australia with a lap record of 105mph. from the Sydney and RPM chapters led us through some great back roads The group were again joined by Tony heading to Orange for an overnight into Orange. The weather improved King who led us through some fabulous stay. Thankfully, it only got better from immensely as we headed west of roads that led to his property at Perthville there. As we headed off from Glenbrook, Wallerawang and past the oddly named where he and Moira provided a fabulous the outlook was not good and we were Sunny Corner. feast for us all. Much appreciation goes left wondering how we were going to Tony and Moira for their contribution to manage the weekend when mostly Autumn is definitely a wonderful time to to the success of the weekend. outdoor activities were planned. Passing be out in your MX-5 in the countryside. through Blackheath, we caught a glimpse Roofs off, the sun shining on your through the fog of MX54PE’s twin sister face whilst the trees are in full colour heading off to her temporary foster and gorgeous. Into Orange and it was home at Blue Mountains Mazda. Yes, the lunch at Orange Highlands Wine and RPM sponsor does have Pam’s twin as Gardens followed by a quick check in a demonstrator for anybody wanting to at our motel and then off to sample adopt the other sister. some ciders and apple wines at Small Acres Cider. We were amazed to see the Morning tea at Lake Wallace near huge crowds at Canonwindra for the Wallerawang was cold and windy with balloon glow festival, a night of lighting everybody reaching for their MX-5 up the hot air balloons against the night jackets. We were joined at the park sky. Some people opted for dinner in by MX-5 club newcomers Wesley and Canonwindra, others were encouraged

20 RPM RPM 21 ILLAWARRA

haywards to husky 10th february 2013 // Report by brendan barr photos by brendan barr & Bryan Shedden

After the Christmas break it was clear installed in front, middle and end cars For the rest of us a smooth ride brought discovered he had a CD on repeat….. Morning tea and chats over, we headed up to the Princes Highway, followed by that many wanted to dust the cobwebs and we headed off in a well ordered line. us to the Macquarie Rd causeway where down to Nowra, over the bridge and Jervis Bay Rd, twisting and turning its off the MX-5 and get back on the road. Nothing could go wrong. a beautiful covering of water ensured So we meandered from the heat of Albion left into Moss Street to wind around the way to Huskisson. Twenty eight at the start line with two that the strategically placed photographer Park, up picturesque Macquarie Pass back roads of Culburra. Soon, strikingly more to pick up at morning tea! Five hundred metres into the run the with a high speed digital SLR took many to the cool of Robertson, where Bryan tall old trees matched the charming old Lunch at the RSL overlooking the CB crackled into life to report our beautiful shots of all the cars crossings. Shedden was dispatched to round up houses that bordered the wonderfully Dolphin & Whale boats was enjoyed Coffee & breakfast were consumed, a first lost car! Anna in the lead car more ‘escaped sheep’. Then we wound christened ‘Jindy Andy Lane’, named by all. Some lingered to shop and then look at the sky confirmed that sunblock dispatched Peter from the rear to round The CB radios were a great tool for down to the warmth of Kangaroo Valley after the flour mill built there by convicts Wayne (who joined us at Cambewarra was necessary. The run sheet was up the bolter. Peter utilised all his sheep keeping cars connected and also gave via Pearson’s Lane, before ascending in 1830. Lookout) mentioned that he actually explained, with some reaching for corralling skills gained from driving old an insight into Peter’s command of the to the misty freeze of Cambewarra captained the dolphin watch ship. Would glasses to adjust to a smaller font size Toranas around his Dad’s Wagga Wagga musical technology in his car. After Mountain lookout for morning tea. We My favourite pieces of bitumen were we like a short trip ‘up the creek’, to than expected. Rules and regulations farm, but the wool was firmly pulled over wrestling with his iPod controls to met Wayne & Sue, Huskisson residents next, Forest Rd, which wound through enjoy the scenery? Why not? A relaxing were covered, shiny new CB radios his eyes. stop Coldplay continually playing, he who had driven up to join the run. the trees for 13 breezy kilometres back way of digesting lunch before heading home.

22 Illawarra Illawarra 23 ILLAWARRA

bob’s

longst way round 21 april 2013 // Report by robert collins photos by robert collins & bryan shedden BREAKFAST near This was the first run to Nerriga held by Nerriga. This is a great stretch of sealed At 1.00pm, we zeroed our odometers, the Illawarra Chapter and was held on road for a distance of about 67 klms and continued south west on the main Sunday, 21st April 2013. On a glorious and we all travelled it at a relaxed pace Braidwood Road, and at 3klms, turned THE CLOUDS day with blue skies we met at Hungry arriving at Nerriga at about 11.30am. west on Oallan Ford Road heading Jacks, Macquarie Place, Haywards Bay at towards Marulan. We travelled along 3 rd march 2013 // Report & photos by Kieren Heikkinen 8.30am ready for our start at 9.00am. On arriving in Nerriga we travelled this road for 73 klms, crossing the With dark clouds looming overhead the roof was raised whilst travelling at comedic raffle and a nice little photo on to the Old Nerriga Public School Shoalhaven River, then through the town and hopes for rain to hold off, it seemed 50km/h thanks to a herculean effort by opportunity, we continued on up the Fourteen people and nine MX-5 cars Museum where we were all welcomed of Bungonia and back onto the Hume a less than ideal start for the run from my passenger, leading to a great deal of highly enjoyable and twisty (and very registered on the run sheet, which by the President of the Museum. It was highway at Marulan. North of Marulan Haywards Bay to Kangaroo Valley. surprise voiced over the CB radios and wet) Moss Vale Road and through Avoca included four new members, who were a gold coin donation and they only open we turned off to Tallong and then down Perhaps due to this, only 4 cars showed much relief in the cabin at finally drying and Burrawang. After descending the participating on their first run with the the Museum on request. It was very to the Bundanoon Hotel for adequate up at Hungry Jacks ready to go, however off. always brilliant Macquarie Pass, we MX-5 Club. After a brief introduction interesting to see the old artifacts and parking. We all then went across to Ye spirits were not dampened. In an effort stopped to say our goodbyes in Albion by Bob & Bryan, we headed south to our antiques of the area going back to the Old Bicycle Shop in Bundanoon for to stave off the rain, my passenger and After heading through Gerringong and Park. first rest room and catch up stop at Mark early days of Nerriga. afternoon tea. Also the Bundanoon I departed topless, however the other 3 Gerroa, our little convoy made our Radium Park, Berry. It was a great drive Sunday Markets were still open and some cars weren’t quite so silly. After a quarter way inland to Berry and up Woodhill Despite the shoddy weather, the great with tops down and followed the Princes We all then travelled back to Nerriga members had a browse. of an hour’s drive and whilst descending Mountain Road, taking a nice winding roads and company made for an Highway to Berry for 44 klms. Hotel for lunch and refreshments at Saddleback Mountain, our luck turned detour through some fog (which enjoyable drive, even with the small 12.00 noon and we had travelled 130klm After an enjoyable day had by all, we for the worse and the heavens opened provided a beautiful setting and made turnout. Thanks to all who came along, We then left Berry and travelled south from Haywards Bay. We all enjoyed the left Bundanoon at 3.30pm and travelled up. Windows were raised and we the drive a bit more “interesting”) and with the run proving that the Southern on the Princes Highway to South Nowra country atmosphere of the old country back to Haywards Bay, via Sutton endeavoured to stay above the 60km/h past Cambewarra Mountain Lookout Highlands always make for an enjoyable and then turned off onto Albatross Road hotel and the meals provided at a Forest, Moss Vale, Robertson and down sweet spot, but our hopeful efforts were for breakfast at Jing Jo Café in Kangaroo and picturesque outing. and then Braidwood Road, past HMAS reasonable price. Macquarie Pass. We travelled a total of soon proved futile. After a nice soaking, Valley. After refuelling the people, a Albatross, and headed south west to 309klms. A great day was had by all.

24 Illawarra Illawarra 25 CANBERRA

Dave’s ‘How To’ Day & lake george & GUNDAROO run Shannons Wheels day 21st april 2013 // Report & photos by Malcolm Bernhardt 16-17th march 2013 // Report by bob judd photos by bob judd & joe craddy If the truth be known, I’m a geriatric In the event, 18 happy people started Lake George has near but dried up now, Each year, the Council of ACT Motor and see how it is done. Those who came judge for the day. Judging wasn’t easy as hoon. Oddly, when leading a run I taper with hot coffee and good conversation with possibly a smidgen of water out in Clubs arranges a show and shine day along enjoyed a good chin-wag and had the cars were slowly disappearing into right off – I want to protect my ‘charges’ at the Gold Creek Café. Then, having the centre but that’s about all. Interesting for its member clubs to raise money for the opportunity to get out their cleaning the dusty environment. However, after you see. Well, that’s what I mumbled to cleared the cobwebs out of our eyes, we to contemplate that at one time this was a local charity. This year, the ‘Technical cloths and spruce up the toy to the level due consideration with the assistance of the Mex anyway, which otherwise would jumped in the shiny carriages and headed a full lake with small waves lapping up Aids for the Disabled, ACT’ group were of showroom magnificence. fellow member John Broughton, John have been wondering to itself, “What the north east towards Lake George. against the built up road! the beneficiaries of the profits from announced the winners as: hell is going on? Ambling along at well the Shannons Wheels Exhibition. The As I peered out the window of my below the speed limit!” The route we took was via the Old From the lake, it was a short journey Canberra chapter of the Mazda MX-5 humble abode on the Sunday morning, Best NA - Dave Bolton Federal Highway. While this is a single via Shingle Hill Way to connect with the Club has traditionally supported this day. the weather looked sunny and, therefore, Best NB - John Brown (it helps when That’s a bit of backdrop to the April lane each way, the undulating road offers road to Gundaroo. The Max Crow Wine Apart from the purpose of fund raising, must be warm. Wrong! Sunny, it was. you’re the only NB there!) run which was an easy country drive a pleasant windy drive with good views Bar at Gundaroo has recently extended it is usually a great day to be seen with Windy, it was also. Unfortunately the Best NC - Paul Beerworth to Lake George followed by a lunch of the surrounding countryside and is it’s facilities and it’s become a popular the members of the other 60 or so clubs wind was with us all day. 900 + cars, at the Gundaroo Wine Bar. The other mostly free of traffic. Cyclists use the family venue. So we finished our run in the Canberra region that make up the bikes, trucks, fire engines and radio As the afternoon progressed a brand background was using Murphy’s Law road as a training route for the same here, consuming good food, in pleasant diverse community that is the local group controlled model cars came along to new McLaren MP4-12C burbled into to determine the weather, because this reason and I came upon three such riders company and then walking around the of specialised Car Clubs. Wheels and braved the windy conditions. the display area. After a good perv, and run was originally intended to finish going the same way, happily spread out village (enjoying sunny weather that Hot coffee and egg and bacon rolls were the realisation that it was worth more with an outdoor picnic. Knowing full across of the road. While they politely would have been ideal for a picnic). We thought that to make the day a little the order of the morning whilst our 10 or than all our cars put together, we decided well that Canberra weather at the end moved into single file as I came close to more interesting, we would run a fun so club cars gathered in our rather dusty that an early mark was warranted. As we of April would be sleet, hail and general them, they must have taken my thank Concours d’Elegance. However, as very corner of what is usually the home of the headed home, the wind was still blowing. cold misery, I changed it to an indoor you wave as being it, because they then few of us had any experience in this field, local equine establishment, the Canberra Next year, I’m sure the weather will be lunch. So what did we get on the day? moved back out across the road again, our Chapter sponsor, Dave Battisson Racecourse. Long-time club member, better. Magnificent soft sunshine with a calm not realising that there were eight more of MX-5 Solutions (Carco), opened up John Brown (“Mr Bling” to his friends), wind, just ideal to be outdoors and cars up their tails. Ahh, the pleasures of his shop for us on the Saturday to come gracefully accepted the role of Concours having a picnic! motoring!

26 Canberra Canberra 27 CANBERRA

A Monaro Meander 16–17th february 2013 // Report by ken keeling photos by Roger Textor

Following our meeting up with the N. Monaro Hwy to Cooma was, of course, were “hot”, or had been up the mountain. E. Vic (NEV) Chapter Captain, Ron a time of temptation and stress – good Gillick, and several other NEV members but boring road, heavily policed and After Bombala coffee it was a more at Corowa during our October 2012 with the accursed point-to-point devices. gentle (but not slow) meander over the Riverina Run, it was decided to do a run However, almost back on schedule, Monaro High Plains to Dalgety and somewhere, sometime to meet up with 9.45am saw us at the Nimmitabel Pie Jindabyne. By the run leader’s marvellous our southern MX-5 cousins. Shop for coffee and from there it was a anticipation and timing, after 485 slow run, intermingled with other traffic, enjoyable kms, we entered into Jindabyne The NEV Snowy Run over 16th & 17th down the Brown Mountain to Bemboka just after 5pm, exactly as the NEV Feb 2013 presented us an excellent to regroup. Once under way, it was a contingent arrived from the opposite Convenors’ BBQ and opportunity. Jindabyne provided a pedestrian ramble to Bega and on to the direction - so exact that we cut right mutually convenient location and an Tathra Pub for our al fresco lunch by through the middle of their chain of cars overnight stay and joint dinner was the sea. Fortunately, the forecast rain as they gave way to turn right into their mystery run planned for the Saturday night. So far, so had stayed away and 15 of us enjoyed a ski lodge. And who should be the car 10th february 2013 // Report by bob judd photos by bob judd & Jill Wicklander good! But, who (and how many) would dry run down the mountain and balmy, that had to stop and wait to turn right? want to come? sunny weather for lunch. None but our very own member, “Annie So what does a paper hat, a picture of interpret the new ACT Bushfire Memorial. The participants then became the from Wagga”, who had sensibly elected a Queen, an ice cream wrapper and a honoured luncheon guests of their Co- Despite a slow initial response we had The afternoon started down the coastal to commence her weekend of MX-5ing feather have in common? They were all The puzzled trekkers ended up at fellow convenors. As a ferocious storm battered an explosion of RSVPs which resulted road to pretty Merimbula for a refuel. by starting with the NEV group on their ‘treasures’ that needed to be found on members Jill and Dennis Wicklander’s the house, our guests settled safely in a final group of 13 MX-5s and 25 We then split into two groups of varying Snowy Run. the Mystery Run that took 26 members country home at Murrumbateman. Here indoors for a BBQ lunch of gourmet people registered for the joint dinner pace for the next section. A few extra and a guest on a 70 km run through the the treasures were evaluated, the answers sausages, hot potatoes and mixed salads, a la Italiano in Jindabyne. We secured kms of freedom - and mobile phone After hotel checking in formalities and a suburbs and surrounding countryside of toted and the artistic interpretations, topped up with fresh homemade pavlova, the necessary accommodation at the comms - saw them regroup with us at freshen up, there was unfortunately little Canberra on their way to an unknown er, interpreted. The winners were David tea and coffee. Lake Jindabyne Hotel - with rooms Wolumla before running as a group to time for a pre-dinner get together with BBQ site. Along the way, there were 20 Goble and Sue Finn, largely on the immediately adjacent to and overlooking Candelo. From Candelo we gave those the NEV contingent, but I did manage to questions that needed to be answered and strength of their magnificent stylised As the weather cleared, our 15 or so cars the lake. so inclined “free rein” over the Myrtle find their key players – at the restaurant, an ‘artwork’ that needed to be completed. rendering of Canberra’s most recent departed for home. Major thanks go to Mountain Road to Wyndham and thence setting out name tags. However, quite a Memorial. The wooden spoon (courtesy Jill and Dennis Wicklander for the use of The departure point at the Hume Caltex through more twisties up the range to few Canberrans managed to gather on On their roundabout trip, our trekkers of the ACT Emergency Services) was their lovely home. Servo provided a central rendezvous Bombala - for another caffeine fix. I the Lake Jindabyne Hotel’s deck for a were questioned about Billy Hughes, awarded to new members Michael and and briefing point plus opportunity to was not quite sure what to make of the few convivial refreshers and to take in photographed with an ‘iron lady’, Rosemary Dunning, who promised that Next year, we’ll have to make the ensure we all left with full tanks. Once gurgling sounds coming from the one of the pleasant view out over the lake as encouraged to make and wear a paper divorce proceedings were not on the cards. questions a little harder… on the road, the steady run down the the “quicker cars” – to me it means they evening approached. hat, and directed to visit and artistically

28 Canberra Canberra 29 HUNTER COMPETITIONPISSers weekend at

9-10th wintonfebruary 2013 // REPORT & photos by Keith Monaghan

PISSers: Phillip Island Supersprinters - a group of club members who have been going to Phillip Island to race over the last few years. AROCA: Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Australia KEEF: Keith FILL: Phil PORL: Paul STEEV: Steve RALF: Ralph BRIRON: Bryan AROCA in conjunction with the MX-5 that proved that the best roof on an overtook it at least 10 times in the day. Club of VIC, were running a Supersprint MX-5 is the soft top as both the cars RALF’s car had a wheel that decided at Winton on 10th February, so it was with the soft tops were dry in a small not to bear up and run true so he had decided that the PISSers should attack number of seconds. Sorry PORL. to retire. By the end of the melting hot Winton. The call went out and a number day the PISSers had held up the MX-5 As it was the first time on the track we of the PISSers answered but as we got Club of NSW high standard with FILL did a test run in the afternoon with the closer to the date some dropped out. The being the fastest modified NC on the mad men from VIC. We also learned that final attack team was to be KEEF, FILL, day and the other members of the team BRYONN would not make the start as PORL, STEEV, RALF and BRYONN. performing very well. NURBUSHRING run his car refused to go more than 3 turns Plans were made to tour back through 21st april 2013 // Report & photos by Peter Hilkmann from home. The evening meal was taken At the end of the day we parted ways, the Snowy Mountains. with the members of the VIC MX-5 club with KEEF, FILL and PORL heading to What a weekend this was. The Bulahdelah, we were greeted by Patrick After a regroup at Wooton, we turned So KEEF, FILL and PORL met by the at a nice pub near the railway. Albury so we could trip back through the contrasting weather between Saturday Bramston and his family, who had around and did it all again. After all, Holbrook submarine and spent an Snowy Mountains the next day and stay and Sunday was unbelievable. It was prepared a delicious morning tea for us you cant have too much fun on such We woke bright and early for the big evening in that town. The morning came off the Hume Hwy. bucketing down and blowing a gale all all. And on behalf of all those present I a great day. Then across the Pacific day and were told that the temperature with the realisation that cheap local day on Saturday, and the weather for would like to thank the Bramston family Highway to give The Lakes Way a go was to reach 40C. We were graded into What a trip! Along the Murray River, red wine is not that good. We ventured the Nurbushring on the Sunday wasn’t for their hospitality and organising a to Forster for lunch. The Lakes Way is groups and attacked the track. Winton through stock grazing along the road, towards the Hume Hwy, most boring looking very promising. With a wet great morning tea for everyone. also classified as a ‘must do road’ MX-5 short circuit is an interesting track but then up through the high country road in Australia. This arrived mid- and slippery road it was goining to be a Road, particularly the first stage near the not great. In my group there was a over some great mountain roads to morning but we were lucky as we only very interesting Sunday. But… Sunday We were also fortunate to have a couple Pacific Highway. So by the time we got 1930’s GP car which won the Australian Cabramurra and finally ending at had to put up with it for a short period morning has arrived, not a cloud in the of cars from the Mid North Coast to Forster, we were all ready for lunch, GP in the 30’s. We were told that it was Gundagai before the run up the Hume of time as the turn off to Winton soon sky, a beautiful clear April morning greets Chapter joining us at the morning tea which was at Club Forster. This is a large worth over $1,000,000 so be careful. Hwy home. What a weekend. When’s the arrived along with a savage downpour us, and we had the tops down for the rest and for the rest of the day. This gave Memorial Service Club, able to cater Due to its pace (or lack thereof) we next attack? of the day. So what had been a miserable both chapter members a chance for some for large groups, no bookings required. Saturday, had turned into a perfect MX-5 social inter-mingling. After everyone had enjoyed their lunch day on the Sunday. and a good social chat with members During morning tea there was talk of the from different MX-5 Chapters, it was We departed our usual meeting point at Nurbushring still being wet after all that time to bid farwell to our friends from 9am with 11 MX-5s, for a leisurely drive rain on the Saturday, so with morning tea the Mid North Coast Chapter, and head up to Bulahdelah, via the Buckets Way finished, we were all eager to find out just back for Newcastle. And as has now turning right at Booral, to follow Booral how wet the road still was. Well it was become a tradition, stop at Heatherbrae Road back to the Pacific Highway, just perfect for a casual MX-5 Sunday drive. Pies (just south of Raymond Terrace), for south of Bulahdelah. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed driving afternoon tea. What a great way to finish it at their own casual (and some not so off a, ‘Perfect MX-5 Day’. Arriving at Mount View Motel in casual) pace.

30 Hunter Competition 31 COMPETITIONDriver training at MG car club canberra MOTORKHANA marulanth dtc th 10 march 2013 // REPORT by mike hicks photos by spencer hulme 24 april 2013 // report by joe craddy photos by Eiji Wakamatsu

On Sunday 10th March, 38 competitors apexes. Competitors were broken up into An enjoyable day was had by all, the Another quarter, another perfect day As would be expected from a club All in all a fun day was had, enjoying along with 8 trainers attended a drive groups of 6 or 7 of similar experience weather was great and members who had for a motorkhana in beautiful sunny devoted to light and nimble sports cars, our cars the way they were designed day at the Marulan Driver Training and ability. The groups then went out for not driven on a track previously were Canberra and boy were the roadsters out the MX-5 Club of NSW was fairly to be enjoyed. If you haven’t had a Centre. This was the club’s second visit to sessions of 10 minutes on the track. able to enjoy the experience without the in force! An assortment of MG’s (funnily prominent at the top end of the field with go at a motorkhana yet, I thoroughly the facility, the first being in March 2011. added pressures of timing. We hope to A big thank you to the trainers on the enough), an s2000, Cappuccino, and of two NA’s in the top 10 outright. Regular recommend you do. Not sure about see you take the next step and enter one Following on from registration, Val day including Bryan Shedden, Lindsay course a solid representation of MX-5’s competitors Ian and Matthew were as competing yourself? Come along and of our Track Days at Wakefield Park or Stewart gave an introductory talk on Burke, Steve Green, Peter Feutrill, Keith were all in attendance. This round even enthusiastic as always in their NB, Paul watch and find out what it’s all about. the South Circuit at Sydney Motorsport driving philosophy and attitude to Monaghan, Glenn Thomas, Luke Kovacic saw a complete history of MX-5 models. got to unleash the power of the NC in The next MGCCC event is at the Sutton Park. competition driving. We then did a track and Tony Williams. They sat in with the some longer than usual tests, and Joe got Road Driver Training Centre on Sunday walk to familiarise all with the layout of competitors when requested, giving them busy trying to repair his alternator in the the 26th of May. the tight 1 kilometre circuit, suggested useful hints on how best to drive the pits yet again. braking and turn-in points as well as circuit.

32 Competition Competition 33 Championship Super sprints ROUND TWO COMPETITION SYDNEY New South Wales MOTORSPORT PARK The Australian Racing Drivers Club were the hosts for this event and once again there was a record number of Championship competitors, 125 in all. Of these there were 24 MX-5 Club members entered, Chris Ballard in his SE, Adam Callendar in his NC, James Glissan in his NA and Supersprints Steven and Cameron Williams in their 24th march & 14th APRIL 2013 // Report by mike hicks NA were all having their first runs in the photos [below] by tiit saul // photos [right] by rob Annesley championship this year. Adam is new to MX-5s on track having previously driven a Daihatsu Charade at club days.

Although the weather was fine, a number of serious mechanical failures including two major oil spills seriously affected the running of the day. Most competitors had the opportunity to complete 4 runs of 8 minutes duration. Unfortunately the official championship results were not available at the time of writing this report so I will have to report on results next time.

At the conclusion of round 2 the type and class winners for the 2012 championship were presented with their trophies. The presentation function was held in the “Garage”, the ARDC’s club rooms/function area. This is the same venue where the MX-5 Club will hold ROUND ONE 2b, Peter Browning 3a, David Lawler 3b, the 2012/2013 Competition Trophy WAKEFIELD PARK Phil Abraham 5b and Mike Hicks SVb. Presentation Function at the conclusion The Mini Car Club played host for Third in class went to Mitchell Bennett of our supersprint at Sydney Motorsport the opening round of the 2013 NSW 1b, Phil Ashton 2b, Kevin Addison 3b, Park on Saturday 6th July. Please put this CAMS Supersprint Championship at Ray Estreich 3c and Stewart Temesvary date in your diary. Wakefield Park. In a field of 91 our club SVb. It was great to see first timers David provided 26 entries which is a record Lawler and Mitchell Bennett amongst the Round 3 of the championship will again number of entries for our club at a class place getters. Other first timers on be at Sydney Motorsport Park on Sunday Supersprint round. Despite the large the day were Chris Flak, Melissa Keller, the 2nd of June. This will be hosted field the Mini Club ran a good meeting Guy Coles, Greg Bunn, Elias Gustavo by the New South Wales Road Racing giving competitors the opportunity to and Joel Garrigues who all contributed to Club on the North or Druitt Circuit. complete 5 runs of 6 minutes. With the the club’s great result on the day. It was Two weeks later, Round 4 will be on the large number of entries our club has a also good to see Ed Cory back behind Brabham or extended circuit, hosted by commanding lead in the defence of the the wheel after an absence of a year or the ADRC. Club Championship won last year. The two. Ed was driving his old road car cum MX-5 Club totalled 180 points to the supersprint car whilst the rebuild of his Entries for both events are on the Australian Racing Drivers Club’s 116 race car is nearing completion. Good Supersprint website at points with the New South Wales Road also to see Lindsay Burke and Robert Kai www.supersprints.com.au Racing Club third on 66. back behind the wheel of Robert’s new RX 7. Ian Caldwell’s NA is now sporting Glenn Thomas was our only class winner a turbo with great results, cutting over in class 1b, second in class went to Bryan 5 seconds from his previous best time at Shedden, also in 1b, Ralph Thompson Wakefield Park.

36 Competition Competition 37 armen a night at the opera 11th april 2013 // Report by various people photos by guy coles, bricet kloren, judith brooks, sue litt & keith penfold In April, Mazda Australia was kind equally as polished and the attention to Wow! You can have the Colosseum and enough to offer the MX-5 Club of detail in every area was clearly obvious. Pyramids. Farm Cove on Sydney harbour NSW tickets to Carmen, being shown at at night – with the Harbour, Opera Magic came into our lives last night. We Fleet Steps in the Domain. Offered on The Opera itself was of epic proportions. House, bridge and city lights as the were transported to a country of fun and first in first served basis, 34 lucky club Sung in French with English subtitles, backdrop – has to top them all. fiesta, of song and dance and colour. In a members snapped up the tickets in less it tells the story of the naive soldier bullring in Spain we learned of the lives than 4 hours with a waiting list for any Don Josè who abandons his childhood Although a complete opera newbie, the and loves of gypsies and soldiers and cancellations. sweetheart and deserts the army when performance was an absolute spectacle smugglers and toreadors all told through he falls under the alluring gypsy’s spell. with an enormous cast and sets with two the wonderful music of Bizet’s ‘Carmen’. Vice President Rob Forsyth kindly When he loses her love to the dashing cranes dropping in props such as a full organised the collection of the tickets and toreador Escamillo, the scene is set for size tank and truck. Amazing colours, The show itself is an engineering miracle arrived early to allow the members to jealousy and vengeance. music and singing with the climax being with the sloping stage out on the water, collect the tickets from a central point. the fireworks going off on the water dressing rooms under the audience An added bonus to the evening was around us. Truly spectacular. Scuba seating, orchestra below the stage, not to With everyone frocked up (it was the admission to the Platinum lounge where divers were on hand to scoop up any mention the two giant cranes, unobserved first time I’d ever seen Russ Maxwell we were given wine, beer and canapé’s members of the cast who inadvertently by the audience, which lifted trucks and not wearing a racing suit), we proceeded and had the opportunity to also take stepped off the edge of the stage to fall containers and a tank on and off the down to the foreshore only to realise in the view of Sydney Harbour whilst 30 feet or more into the harbour below stage. The eating and drinking areas that these were no ordinary general rubbing shoulders with Sydney’s opera (luckily they all stayed dry!). were decorated in the Spanish style, the admission tickets but the premier tickets elite. food was hot and spicy and the drink directly in front of the stage giving us a Craig Durrant was sangria–nothing had been omitted in commanding view of the performance Overall it was an experience that I am bringing a touch of Spain to Sydney. with Sydney Harbour as the backdrop. sure we will all remember for quite some time and huge thank you goes to Mazda We were lucky to have the most perfect The sets were also spectacular with tanks, Australia for their generosity. of Sydney autumn evenings, clear, balmy trucks and shipping containers being and still with the city, bridge and the lowered onto the stage by crane and then guy coles Opera House in the background from moved within seconds for the next scene. our position at Fleet Steps in the Botanic The costumes and performance were Gardens. But we were in Spain, watching a tale of love lost and won, on the edge of a bloodred bullfighting ring.

Our sincere thanks to Mazda for its generosity in providing some tickets to the MX-5 Club. A wonderful experience.

Judy Palfreyman

38 Club Torque Club Torque 39 –DRIVER TORQUE– Interview and photos by Neil Hamilton-Ritchie and Timothy Heppell SPENCER HULME VICTOR LEE How did you get into cars? If you could drive any track or road in the How did you get into cars? part is the best I’ve seen of any car part ‘02 Classic Red nb8c I loved watching motorsport as a kid and world what would it be? ‘02 Brilliant Black NB SP Like all other teenagers with an Asian and it really completes the interior colour 15×7 949 Racing 6UL watched more and more as I got older, Suzuka in Japan. I went to the Formula 1 Garage Vary front lip upbringing, my appreciation with cars scheme. Dunlop Direzza Z1 Star Specs 205/50/15 particularly Formula 1. I moved closer to Japanese Grand Prix in 2010 and would Garage Vary eye lids started with car magazines and the Hawk HP+ brake pads work a couple of years ago and didn’t need love to go back to be behind the wheel. Custom red headlight casing with LED halo lights popular Gran Turismo gaming series What did you used to drive and how Braided steel brake lines to drive each day so I bought the MX-5 for It’s got a lot to offer as a driver’s circuit Lockwood front grill painted in black on PlayStation. Given the fact that my does it compare to your MX-5? Yellow Speed Racing coilovers the weekend and track. with long straights, sweeping high speed Custom bonnet scoop family garage consisted of a Camry, Prior to Diablo, I owned NiMo, a Black Sparco Sprint V seat corners like 130R and technical parts like Garage Vary rear lip Volvo and a Pajero, I’m glad that I’ve & Gold NB8A. It was a solid and reliable 6 point harness What is your favourite performance Spoon and Degner. There’s also a lot of Mazda small side skirts developed the same appreciation for cars car. In comparison to the SP model, the ProjectG G-vents modification to date and why? history there for an F1 fan so it’d be great 949 Racing 6ULs 15×7 wrapped in Bridgestone RE002s like other fellow enthusiasts. standard NB8A was much easier to drive. DDMworks Stage 2 intake The Sparco bucket seat. Everything I’ve to be amongst that on the right side of the Art Works Dewa full instrument cluster Autoexe muffler MX5 Plus twin-hoop roll bar done with the car has put a smile on my barriers. Could you tell us about your most Brown Davis rollbar Full leather interior with matching seats, doorcards, Which aspect of being a car enthusiast face but the seat was the one that really gear boots and steering wheel exciting drive or moment in your car? do you enjoy the most - Modifying, sealed the feeling of being connected to the Which aspect of being a car enthusiast do Voodoo gear knob in textured black The best experience I’ve had in my Driving or Socialising? car. The intake is a close second just for the you enjoy the most - Modifying, Driving Bilstein PSS9 coilovers with FCM bushes car, Diablo, is when I’ve momentarily We all know that MX-5s are a beautifully growl. or Socialising? Flyin Miata frame rails achieved ‘Jinba Ittai’ with it whilst balanced piece of machinery and it may Driving is the whole point of it, but a few driving uphill from Mooney Mooney to tickle each owner in a different way. What did you used to drive and how does modifications here and there can enhance Pie In The Sky. The feeling of planning, Some people enjoy modifying it, detailing it compare to your MX-5? that experience and it’s the social aspect performing and completing manoeuvres it, racing it or just experiencing the ‘wind 2003 Mazda 323 Protegé - with the that brings it all together. I’ve met some in the exact way that I wanted was a in the hair’ moments on a cool winter ‘power’ pack! The MX-5 was a big change great people at various club activities. mind-blowing experience and I have been morning. I think the fact that we’re of pace to say the least. The greatest Track days in particular are just as much continuously trying to refine my skills to presented with a socialising platform change was going from an “A to B” car to about banging in that quick time as talking re-enact that since. in the form of our MX-5 Club takes one that was about so much more than the to the other competitors, learning how our appreciation for the 5 to another destination. they approach the lap or generally having What is your favourite aesthetic level. Just as you think that you know a good chat! modification to date and why? everything there is to your car - your What is your goal for the next track day Art Works Dewa full instrument gauge– pride and joy, someone in the wood and how do you plan to accomplish it? What is the most awkward object you it was a special treat for myself for work will present him/herself with a Faster times are always the target but have transported in your MX-5? getting a new job a few years back. wealth of knowledge in an area that you ultimately it’s about having fun and 4 wheels and 4 tyres separately to get them Although it has little to no practical use, had no idea about. That is the biggest enjoying the day with friends. If I can’t go fitted. 1 tyre in the boot, 2 tyres on the I figured that it was the one thing that reason why I love my car so much more faster the next best thing would be setting passenger seat, 1 tyre behind the passenger I would personally look at all the time compared to other great sports cars like times as consistent as possible and then seat, 1 wheel in the passenger footwell and I believed it was money well spent. the Toyota 86 or Honda S2000. learning from those who are going quicker and 3 wheels strapped behind the rollbar. The craftsmanship of each individual than me. Thankfully it was a very short trip around the block.

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David Battisson Unit 6 Carco Centre 1 Park Street 23 Kemble Court Unit 6/1 ParkBelconnen Street ACT 2617 24-26 Hollywood Drive 42 Great Western Hwy 02 6253 1396 Mitchell ACT Belconnen0407 ACT 278 984 Lansvale NSW Medlow Bath NSW [email protected] 1800 444 711 (02) 6253www.carco.com.au 1396 (02) 9727 6788 (02) 4788 1018