Spoke 'n' Wheels February 2017 Volume 15 Issue No. 52
www.coomacarclub.com.au Spoke 'n' Wheels February 2017 Volume 15 Issue No. 52
Newsletter of the Cooma Monaro Historic Automobile Club, Incorporating membership in Cooma, the Monaro and the Alpine towns of the Snowy Mountains Region PO Box 758 Cooma, N.S.W. 2630 Monthly meetings at 7pm, 1st Monday of the month at Bolaro Street Clubhouse
EMAIL: [email protected] WEB www.coomacarclub.com.au
President Robert Wolf 0402 202 187 Vice President Max Talbot 6453 3234 [email protected] Secretary Steve Redden 0421 082 520 [email protected] Treasurer Darrel Gaukroger 6452 1159 Clubhouse Peter Quodling & 6452 1707 [email protected] Hire/Functions/ John Neilson 0418 643 008 Assets/Bar Membership Peter Longhurst 6452 1619 Plates Registrars Roy Rees, 6452 3173 [email protected] John Evans & 6452 1584 [email protected] Kel Goodman Newsletter Sarah Pendergast & 0403 428 747 [email protected] Glynn Pendergast 0412 760 336 Vehicle Fleet Glynn Pendergast 0412 760 336 Manager Website and Ian Hampton 0400 528 115 Publicity Events Coordinator Maree Burchall & Jenni Fraser Fines Sergent Ron Knight Non-Executive Glen Glumley Directors Rogan & Bev Corbett
Links http://www.actmotorclubs.org.au/ Council of ACT Motor Clubs
http://www.motoring.org.au/index.html Australian Historic Motoring Federation
http://www.councilofmotorclubs.org.au/default.php The Council of Motor Clubs NSW (City)
www.bushcouncil.com.au The Council of Motor Clubs NSW (Country) http://www.aomc.asn.au/ Association of Motoring Clubs Victoria http://www.thebegavalley.org.au/index.php?id=historiccars Sapphire Coast Historic Vehicle Club www.cacmc.org.au/ Canberra Antique and Classic Motor Club
Page 2 President's Prose Hello Members,
We had a very busy end to 2016. The Club-House official opening was certainly a great occasion and a great night. I was especially proud of Keith Montague with his speech, and his attendance in an official capacity, made it all very special and worthwhile. Thank you Keith.
Our next great event was the Surf to Summit rally. Having been booked out months before, this was once again a well- attended and (can I say) a well organised event. I`m sure the entrants won`t forget a warm day on Saturday at Pambula and a blizzard at Charlotte Pass on Sunday. I feel sorry for the Cobra entrants who had no side curtains and their cars were just filling up with snow. A big thank you to the organising committee.
President Robert Wolf 0402 202 187 We again had Chrisco which is our major fundraiser. Thank you to all members who helped and were there at Vice President Max Talbot 6453 3234 [email protected] 5am on Sunday morning to help sort and deliver cartons to many anxious customers. Thank you to Ray Secretary Steve Redden 0421 082 520 [email protected] Treasurer Darrel Gaukroger 6452 1159 Pendergast for again running this event in the meticulous way that he does and Tanya Wolf for cooking Clubhouse Peter Quodling & 6452 1707 [email protected] breakfast as she always does for the volunteers. Hire/Functions/ John Neilson 0418 643 008 Assets/Bar Chris and Colleen Reeks set us a challenging and enjoyable treasure hunt to finish off the year, with many Membership Peter Longhurst 6452 1619 members in attendance; it was certainly a very topical and enjoyable afternoon. This was followed by our Plates Registrars Roy Rees, 6452 3173 [email protected] Christmas party and awards night which again was a great night out. John Evans & 6452 1584 [email protected] I have to say in my position in the club the most fun I get is having runs in our old cars and social nights at our Kel Goodman Clubhouse. I have had some of the best nights in the company of fellow members in our Clubhouse. Let` hope Newsletter Sarah Pendergast & 0403 428 747 [email protected] that this continues. Glynn Pendergast 0412 760 336 Vehicle Fleet Glynn Pendergast 0412 760 336 That was 2016. Now after a short break we welcome in 2017 and we have again hit the ground running. Our Manager first event was our Australia Day Breakfast. This was well attended and we donated $1900.00 to Legacy, Website and Ian Hampton 0400 528 115 Publicity another great effort. Thank you to Cooma Lions Club, Cooma/Bombala Legacy and of course our own club. Events Coordinator Maree Burchall & th Jenni Fraser Jenny and Maree organised a run to Jindabyne for lunch on Sunday 29 January. This run was very well Fines Sergent Ron Knight attended with 25 plus cars. It was very hot but I don`t think anyone cared as they were keen to go for a run. Non-Executive Glen Glumley Lunch at the Jindabyne Bowling Club was very good and I`m sure all who attended had a great time. Thank Directors Rogan & Bev you girls. Corbett February 4th saw many of us attend Nimmitabel show. Yes, the show circuit has started again. Let`s hope we have good attendance at the Dalgety, Cooma and Bombala shows as well. Thanks to all members who made the effort to go to Nimmitabel.
We are now settling into the new- year with the resumption of meetings etc. We have had our February meeting with the Executive meeting to follow. This year will see many changes with the car club by-laws with the changes brought about by the RMS regarding Historic and Modified concessional registration. Members must remember that if they are not financial members of our or any recognised club that their car is not registered even if the rego has not expired.
Page 3 President's Prose cont. We have had a full grave finish done to Don Bottom`s grave. It was in desperate need of repair as he only had a headstone which was sinking. We had Peter Doughton the monumental mason do the job which looks really good. Steve Redden has photos if you wish to see them. I`m very pleased that we achieved this out-come especially since Don showed us such generosity in the gift that he gave our club. Now he can really rest in peace. The Don Bottom memorial shed is a step closer with the DA being approved for a stand- alone colourbond storage shed. Hopefully the construction certificate won`t be too far away. This has been a long time coming.
No, I am not harping again, but the AGM in July is not that far away. Many of the Executive as well as other position holders are not re-standing. They have held their position for many years. We need members to fill the void to run your club. With 176 members, surely we can find enough people to take on these roles. It is fun to be able to run and guide your club. I have learnt so much by being in the role that I would not have had the opportunity to do otherwise. It`s a great club. Be part of it and guide it to a greater future.
Till the next newsletter, enjoy your old cars.
Editorial
Here we are well into the swing of happenings for 2017, and already a couple of events under our belt, no stopping us now. You can read about those events further on in the magazine. At least this year we won’t have those major events like the Opening, and Back to Cooma to worry about, that is as long as a certain ideas man stays quiet for a while. But let’s not rest on our laurels, the Motorfest is looming so we need some early planning. We have achieved an amazing amount of tasks, especially in the club rooms, the photos are fantastic, with so many compliments from visitors and locals alike, e.g. the Cooma Men’s Shed, about 20 in number visited recently for morning tea, and were suitably impressed admiring our collection of vehicles, couldn’t believe the plane, and were taken back with the club rooms. Some reminiscing of early days when they owned old cars and wishing they had kept them. We have also had the senior citizens visit, and they will be returning in the near future. No real advancement with the Don Bottom memorial shed. Waiting on a construction certificate to come back, perhaps with things back to normal with everyone back at work we may see some action from the powers that be so we can proceed. Remember, if you have an article or photos you would like in the magazine or would like us to contribute something special, please contact Bev at [email protected] and we will try our best to bring it to our magazine. Some of the stories have been a good read, Chris and Colleen’s Route 66 part 2 is great. Just a reminder about all the local shows coming up, and a BIG thankyou must go the Jenny and Maree, they are doing such a good job getting us out and about, thankyou Girls!! Hoping all our members have a great 2017 from your editors.
Page 4 Upcoming Events
February 25th & 26th - Mallacoota Overnight Trip
March 5th - Dalgety Show 11th - Cooma Show 18th - Bombala Show 26th - Mount Gladstone Hillclimb
April 1st & 2nd - Vintage and Pre '60's Car Rally
Remember to check the Car Club website events page to see any updates or additional events.
Page 5 Event Reports
SOUTHERN CROSS GOLDEN ANNIVERSAY RALLY RE RUN - 11th NOVEMBER 2016
Cooma Car Club members were privileged to witness some history re visited when thirty historic rally cars came to Cooma to drive a timed special stage of the rally re run along Shannon’s Flat Road and Jones Plain Road and through to Canberra, many Monaro residents would have had a bird’s eye view as they went past their properties. We provided breakfast for drivers and their crews by 9.00 am when it was time to be flagged off, with Donna Smith, Tourism manager from CVC, doing the honours. The Southern Cross rally was run from 1966 to 1980 Australia’s first truly International Rally. The Golden Anniversary was organised to celebrate the first running of the event. With mostly 1960’s and 1970’s cars, a wide range including a Datsun 1600/P510 and 240Z, Peugeot 404’s 504 and 505, 3 Volvos, Mitsubishis, some modern cars and a Renault Clio Sport. Drivers like Ross Dunkerton, Ian Swan, Mike Batten, and Darryn Snooks participating. Bob Watson, Rally Director, former Australian and Victorian Champion rally driver and International rally winner, author, and inaugural inductee into the Australian and Victorian Rally Hall of Fame, thanked the Car Club for their input and the breakfast and was impressed with our Club premises. Rally enthusiasts might be interested to know they were going on to Canberra, Sydney, Port Macquarie then Coffs Harbour to meet up with Rally Australia for the final round of the 2016 FIA Rally Championship.
History A NEW (OLD) REQUISITION FOR THE CLUB
We have been lucky enough to be given an old Land Speed Record Bike, The Spider, which was built for the Land speed record, 2-wheel attempt in 1984. Believed to have reached a speed of 450 kph. Powered by 2 Yamaha XJ1200 motors turbo charged, 2 stabilizing skids black in colour, a steel frame construction, fibreglass body and complete with it’s own parachute. Unfortunately the record at the time is believed to have been 512 kph, still in all a very ‘valiant’ attempt, with one very brave driver John Vevers. The bike came into the hands of Peter Purcell who then stored the bike at Bill Hammel’s shed at Bunyan, Peter contacted Rogan to see if the car club would like it for the museum. We are waiting on some more information about ‘The Spider’, and more about John Vevers, so watch this space.
Page 6 2016 GIRDER FORK RALLY - 15th & 16th OCTOBER 2016
A bit of history first. This is the 5th Girder Fork Rally run by the Cooma Car Club. After filling a gap when Cooma Alpine Tourers folded in 1996 (14 years). To be eligible to enter the rally, the motor cycle must be manufactured before 1950 and be equipped with Girder Fork Suspension (not Telescopic as with modern bikes). 2016 Rally attracted 48 entrants, many returning year after year, and some bringing their families along to continue the family tradition, to enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie, the wonderful roads and scenery of the Monaro/Snowy Mountains area, as well as the social side enjoyed at our great club house. Some entrants arrived on the Friday and participated in a short run, about 30 klms. Registration and welcome was held Friday evening with nibbles and drinks, and of course Saturday was welcome and briefing of the day’s rally, having morning tea at Ando (68 klms.so far) and returning to the clubhouse for lunch and judging (79 klms.) The afternoon run entailed travelling Kosciuszko Rd. for 23 klms. then right to Eucumbene Road for 8 klms. and then Middlingbank Rd. and Slacks creek Rd. to Cooma 48 klms. (79 Klms.) All up the day’s ride totalled 226 klms. Dinner and Presentation began at 6.30 for 7pm at the club house which all went well with the following results of the Rally :
BIKE OF THE RALLY Bernie Medway / Kaleen 1918 Regnis BEST 1900-1919 Ian Richardson / The Oaks 1915 Rudge Multi BEST 1929-1930 Matt Williams / The Oaks 1927 Scott Squirrel HIGHLY COMMENDED Barry Graham / Peakhurst 1929 Brough Superior BEST 1931-1939 Steve Davey / Scullin 1938 Triumph HIGHLY COMMENDED Wayne Smith / Bowral 1937 AJS BEST 1940-1949 Gordon Mitchell / Wakeley 1947 BSA BEST OUTFIT-Bike/Sidecar Ken Cross / Sale- Victoria 1940 Triumph MARSHALL’S CHOICE Michael Twigg / Elderslie 1938 Norton
Mention should be made of the great help given to this Motorcycle Rally by club members, both men and women, given they are mostly Pro Car enthusiasts. This has been noted and mentioned by many visitors. Sunday morning saw a few riders participate in the run to Shannon’s Flat and back to the club house. After goodbyes all were wished a safe trip home and hope to see everyone at the next Rally in 2017. th th Plans for the 2017 GFR are underway. Keep the 14 & 15 October free!
Page 7 Eight States in a Ford Focus - Chris and Colleen’s Route 66 Vacation Part 2
We crossed the state line from Texas into New Mexico on the “San Jon” section of Route 66: 18 miles of dirt, having never been paved, which ran alongside the once significant Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, remnants of which dot the landscape between abandoned motels boasting “modern bathrooms” (i.e. two hole privy shacks…). Tucumcari Mountain appears before reaching the city of the same name - renowned for its restored R66 neons, plethora of Indian curios shops/ trading posts, and in nearby San Rosa, Colleen had to endure yet another car museum displaying predominately Mustangs and Chevrolets. Opting again to travel the original sections of R66, we headed north, on the “Santa Fe” loop alignment, which tracks the “Santa Fe Trail”, the 19th Century transportation route, providing a vital connection between New Mexico with Missouri and beyond. A small side trip took us to Las Vegas (New Mexico NOT Nevada!) - a fantastic town, well worth a detour - thriving with restaurants, antique stores, galleries, another fire station for Chris, and the magnificent Plaza Hotel (c1882) overlooking the square where the United States proclaimed possession of NM in 1846. Before reaching Santa Fe we travelled past Pecos and Glorieta, prominent sites of Civil War battles and reached the highest point on R66 - Glorieta Pass - at 7500 Ft, which was altitude sickness inducing for the driver… Santa Fe is a fantastic city, where you could spend days if not a few weeks. Our accommodation, “The Silver Saddle” was a great motor court motel built in 1956, on the original route, constructed in adobe architecture, prevalent throughout NM. The historic downtown is great - tiny streets of original adobe buildings radiating out around the Plaza. Two of which include the oldest Church in the US (c1610), and the oldest house (c1646), the latter now a well-preserved museum, though not really suitable for people over 5 ft.!! The American cuisine really picked up in NM too - fresh, local produce, great flavours and a huge diversity - no more bland burgers and fried chicken!! A great R66 diner remains on the Plaza, nearby Colleen purchased traditional silver and turquoise jewellery crafted and certified by the Native American tribes in the area (such as the Navajo). Chris shopped for, but did not end up purchasing Ostrich skin boots ($1500 US +). Travelling south beside the Rio Grande, passing a number of pueblos, our next major stop was Albuquerque, not as picturesque as Santa Fe, but interesting nonetheless. Two fantastic museums (Albuquerque Museum and National Museum of Nuclear Science & History) had excellent Route 66 exhibitions - huge quantities of exhibits, photographs and facts. Our timing was fortuitous - 2016 being the 90th anniversary of R66’s inception meant that there were increased exhibits and events. Debatable as to being fortuitous or not… our stay in Albuquerque coincided with (now President) Trump’s rally. Staying at The Hotel Anduluz (one of Conrad Hilton’s first hotels, a 1939 beautifully preserved Territorial “high rise”) our room directly faced the convention centre and massing crowds. We got amongst the peaceful anti- Trump protestors, with excellent slogans on their placards, and watched in amazement at the diversity in age, ethnicity, and socio-economic backgrounds of those filing past, attending the rally - yes there were archetypal “rednecks” with mullets and women with huge hair and $5000 handbags - but there were also many Latino and African Americans, and Muslim attendees. The dozens of local police were very agreeable, allowing Colleen to take photos wherever and of whatever she wanted - after clarifying we were Australian. After a fantastic dinner on the hotel terrace, we ventured back into the streets at the rally’s conclusion. Against our own political beliefs some Trump badges were purchased (Christmas stocking fillers!!), and we were then in the midst of increasing numbers of increasingly angry opposing supporters. The next few hours were bizarre - violence against people and vehicles, arrests, police on foot using tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd (Chris ducking behind lamp posts each time), and more police appearing on horseback, in riot gear and in helicopters. An unexpected, yet compelling evening!!
Page 8 Heading west towards Arizona, crossing the Rio Grande again, flat landscapes are soon replaced by giant red sandstone mesas on the winding 1926 alignment. Between Mesita and Laguna, amongst more Pueblos, is “Owl Rock”, a 20m+ tall outcrop appearing suddenly, and almost directly, on the road in front of you. A quick turn follows, then you encounter, “Dead Man’s Curve”, a 180° bend formed by the 50m + escarpment looming above - evidently, both are continued causes for alarm and accidents. Modern civilization appears briefly in the township of Villa de Cubero (bypassed in 1937). It’s claimed Hemmingway wrote the “The Old Man and the Sea” in the café from which we bought a coke. Past expansive roadside lava beds we checked out another fire station in Grants, along with the New Mexico Mining Museum, which combines R66 history, an underground Uranium museum/ mine re-creation and enormous fossils - 130 million years old! Nearby, the Grants Milan Airport is an aviation museum, restoring the buildings, beacon and tower, built in 1929 for the Transcontinental Air Transport Company’s coast-to-coast transport route, created by Charles Lindbergh. The last few highlights of New Mexico were undoubtedly the Continental Divide, lunching at the El Rancho, Gallup (where John Wayne, Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn and Reagan hung out during the 1940s-50s), and lastly, encountering a timber rattlesnake sunbathing! Enduring some stretches on the Interstate 40, we arrived in Winslow, Arizona (of The Eagles’ Take It Easy fame). Staying at La Posada (c1929), considered the last great railway hotel, spread across 4.5ha, which has its own personal station from which guests would arrive and depart. Expansive and elaborately decorated inside and out - the hotel even impressed Chris - model train displays in the lobby and John Wayne’s room across the hall from ours. West of Flagstaff, on the I-40 Colleen fell asleep and missed an important exit. We wisely backtracked and drove along a mix of 1926 and 1939 alignments, and dead end sections between Bellemont and Williams - a must do. The surface alternates between gravel, concrete and dirt, on occasion through private roads (locals sitting in rocking chairs on verandahs – very ominous!!), and winding amongst dense pine forests (For those motorcycle enthusiasts, one section passes by the Pine Breeze Inn, which featured in “Easy Rider”). A few days were spent in Williams - the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”- which was the last town bypassed on R66. Very much a tourist hub - lacklustre customer service, expensive souvenirs and naturally - mock shootouts between cowboys occurring each morning and evening, at both our hotel and in the middle of the main street! A trip to the Grand Canyon, via train, was excellent - the scale and different sights were spectacular. The train also earned top marks in offering a carriage not permitting anyone under the age of 16!!!
Moving west, the bypassing of R66, has left a trail of declining towns: Ash Fork, Seligman, Peach Springs - though it was refreshing to see a country which values its railway system - we pass a dozen or so each day with 5 locomotives and 60 or more goods wagons (including US army vehicles and tanks no doubt headed for the Middle East!). A must stop is at Cool Springs, a reproduced replica of the 1926 store and gas station, located at the start of a section called the “R66 National Back Country Byway” – 42 miles of snaking road without guardrails or gas stations, climbing to Sitgreaves Pass at 3550 ft. On the descent you encounter the township of Oatman – in 1915 two prospectors found $10 million US in gold and its population rose to 3500. Now there are 130 people, and dozens of wild burros roaming the streets. On Memorial Day we crossed the Colorado River into California, and scooted up the 95 into Nevada, checking out Lake Meade and the Hoover Dam. Chris’s selection of accommodation in Needles, CA boasted no Wi-Fi, no AC and plenty of drunken Americans celebrating their holiday.
The Californian stretch is relatively quick, but diverse. Meteor craters precede towns such as Baghdad, Ludlow, Newberry Springs and Barstow; the latter was moved in its entirety sideways to make way for the expanding railway lines and yards. While many segments closer to LA were inaccessible, 1930s alignments can be reached, cutting around the railroad and I-15. Another of Chris’s picks was the Wigwam Motel in Rialto… individual teepee hotel rooms, c1940s and a popular stop during the Route’s heyday. In central LA, before reaching the THREE (3!!) “End of the route” locations, we explored the Peterson Automotive Museum on Wiltshire Blvd - an essential stop for any motoring enthusiasts. More than 150 vehicles and motorcycles are on display across 25 galleries, over four floors - the contents one gallery alone are worth $120 million US collectively. Those with more time can visit the vault, a temperature controlled space beneath the museum housing another 100 vehicles.
In keeping with our purist approach we reached each end marker in chronological order - the first and original - end of Route 66 was at Broadway and 7th Ave, Downtown LA, in the middle of the newspaper and diamond district. In 1936 the Route was extended and the official end of ’66 became Lincoln and Olympic, and remained so until the decommissioning in 1985. There are no markings to acknowledge this, so we now have photos standing beneath a sign for “Western Dental and Orthodontics”. In 2009 R66 preservation groups anointed the Santa Monica Pier as the Route terminus, constructing the oft-photographed marker, and information booth. After 3200+ miles, we arrived, still smiling and still speaking to each other, and received our certificate of completion. - Colleen Reeks
Page 9 SURF TO SUMMIT SATURDAY - 12th and 13th NOVEMBER 2016
This Rally could easily be described as “Our BEST YET”. 101 Cars and their drivers, some previous entrants, some 1st timers, experienced a huge weekend’s activities, interesting weather conditions, some disappointments, some breakdowns, but most importantly, great hospitality with friendships made and renewed. A sunny Saturday morning, a quick coffee fix, a briefing and it was off to the SURF at Pambula, with morning tea at Cathcart, always delightful, a few problems started to occur. Mick Buckner’s lovely Jaguar expired before the rally, but the car club lent Mick the club Volvo to drive for the weekend, and he was extremely grateful to be able to enjoy the whole weekend. Mark Jones couldn’t get 1st gear, so they didn’t make it. Audley’s Cobra had gear box problems, so it didn’t make it. You have to give it to the girls in the lovely old Austin Seven, a few shortcuts here and there but she made it. Fabulous day in Pambula weather wise, lunch left a bit to be desired, but we had some good sports in our crew, and we got on with it. The Replica MG had shimmy problems, before leaving Pambula, but it was still a good run back to Cooma for the Dinner and presentations, you know, the usual lies being told, stories of old rallies, etc, etc, it was a great night, but all were keen to get some sleep for the next day’s adventure. And an adventure it surely was!! Bit cool Sunday morning, but comfy. Looked like rain looming. After briefing, it was off to the SUMMIT. Black clouds looking ominous, light to heavy showers started, unfortunately some weren’t prepared, but the majority continued with clearing skies in Berridale, where once again we were treated to a lovely morning tea. The Berridale School people, providing morning tea, couldn’t believe their eyes, never having seen such an array of amazing motor vehicles in their town at one time, their own little motorfest, with many photos taken, they were extremely grateful for the opportunity to witness such an event and for the donation. Weather not promising, Jindabyne saw tension on faces, phone calls to our destination, assuring we won’t get snowed in, and lots of weather predictors giving advice, but the wonderful thing was, some people on the trip had never seen snow! Couldn’t believe their luck! “Send her down Hughie”. Some said, You guys must have ordered the weather, it is perfect, we love it! I think Hughie must have been looking after us. But again there were some near mishaps, with one Cobra having radiator problems having to go back to Jindabyne, and closer to Charlottes the old Bristol-no wipers-decided to turn back, after a tricky turn around and snow easing, they decided to turn around and come back, and they were thrilled they decided to stay with the tour. The girls who had driven the Austin Seven the day before decided they would take Dad’s A Model Ford, which was very brave considering the conditions. After much consternation and wet clothes, the boys did a magnificent job finding everyone a park, it was off to lunch at Charlotte’s Pass Resort restaurant. Once again, lunch left a bit to be desired especially for the tale enders, our good sports were there, and resort put on notice. Open fire, good coffee and yummy sweets, and good wine, could have settled in for the evening. Homeward bound, Max and Coral’s Fiat 123 had valve gear problems, NRMA to the rescue for them, but Chris Reek’s Mini also decided to expire. Hopefully everyone reached their destinations safely that evening. A great weekend’s adventure, I’m sure many of you have already booked for the next Rally, thanks to organisers, participants, Hughie, and hope to see you all in 2 years time for another adventure!
Page 10 Advertisments
Wagga Wagga Veteran & Vintage Motor Club Inc
www.wwvvmcinc.wordpress.com
Invitation Our Rally is renowned for its activities, th 50 Annualentertainment June and Ra goodlly food at a reasonable price. We are planning to make this another great QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY LONGrally for WEEKEND your enjoyment. 9TH TO 12TH JUNE 2017 WELCOME EVENING ON 9 TH, FAREWELL BREAKFAST ON 1 2 TH
Eligible Vehicles: Veteran, Vintage, Post Vintage and Classic Cars, Commercials and Motorcycles manufactured prior to 31st December 1987
Dear Motoring Enthusiasts
We invite motoring enthusiasts to attend our 50th Annual June Rally. To help us celebrate this anniversary, we especially encourage those with veteran and vintage vehicles to attend, like we enjoyed in our Club’s earlier years. These earlier vehicles will complement our usual range of entries. This will help make this event a very special one to remember. There will be short and long runs to cater for the differing vehicle capabilities.
Our Rally is renowned for its activities, entertainment and good food at reasonable prices. We are planning to make this another great rally for your enjoyment. We look forward to renewing friendships and meeting new folk to help us enjoy this weekend.
Please note that unlike previous years, there are no organised activities planned for Saturday evening. This will allow entrants to make their own arrangements on the night and possibly explore the many dining and entertainment options available in Wagga Wagga. A good range of motel and caravan park accommodation is available in our city - see attached details. We suggest you book your requirements early. If you require further details or an Entry Form, please contact me on 0407 145 525 or visit our WEB site: www.wwvvmcinc.wordpress.com (or Google search wwvvmc).
Ray Harrison
Rally Director
Hope to see you there!!!
Invitation.doc The following vehicles are located reasonably close to cooma,it will be up to the potential purchasers to arrange their own transport,most will need tyres to be inflated or a battery to move .None are registered,some are only good for parts only,all have straight bodies in various shapes and sizes.These being. 1.Reo or AMG 6 wheeler bogie drive,MULTI FUEL ENGINE currently on LPG with turn table has spare tyre no rim.CABIN RUST. 2.1975 falcon ute x army,auto with x flow motor suitable for parts only ,GRILL IS SOLID AND COMPLETE. 3.1974 falcon ute v8302 engine auto,straight body but rust in back end good for parts or repair. PLEASE NOTE ITEMS 2 and 3 doors suit all 2 door cars so these are very sort after. 4.Series2land rover SWB with hard top,full length roof rack ,rough inside and out x bhp vehicle,HAS A CAPCIUM FRONT WINCH . 4.series 2a long wheelbase land rover x army with all the army set ups very straight body ,2.3ltpetrol 4 cylinder motor ,has 109 wheel base,twin fuel tanks and canopy frame needs seats and general tidy up every thing is there. 5.M B 300d 3.6ltr car 4door reasonably ok EXCEPT PAINT odd rat nest. 6.MB V8 .S.E.L. 450 has sunroof,needs respray on LPG 7.MB S.E.L.420good interior needs roof only respray auto v 8 possible be a 1986 would need a new grill then be on the road. 8. Ford X D rear axle LSD for leaf spring vehicles set up for V8 no rotors. 9. Heavy duty hydraulic engine lifter mobile on dolly wheels capacity lift unknown. 10.6354 Perkins engine,complete but closed, 11. V8 dodge engine X boat TRI POWER CARBIES MODEL 94 some chrome work. 12. TRI POWER S U CARBIES (3) on intake manifold suit falcon . 13. BOX OF CARBIES ALL SORTS INCLUDING WEBBER condition unknown. Please note that the above have not been used or started for some time so condition is were is as closed condition Terms of sale ,cash on pick up only. Contact owner direct on 0427310535
Page 11 Clubhouse Official Opening - 29th October 2016
There was an outstanding attendance of one hundred and seventy people at the official opening of the Cooma Car Club (CMHAC) Clubhouse on Saturday evening the 29th October. The evening commenced with an opening ceremony with interesting and informative speeches by MC Peter Longhurst, The Honourable Bronnie Taylor, MLC, Snowy-Monaro Regional Council Administrator Dean Lynch, Car Club President Rob Wolf, the Car Club’s first Life Member, Keith Montague, and Marnie Stewart representing The Community Chest. Peter Longhurst’s informative speech touched on the early history of motoring in Cooma including that the first motor vehicle was an Alldays and Onions in 1908, there were 28 cars in Cooma in 1917 and the first competitive hill climb was in 1913 which was sponsored by the Presbyterian Church. Car Clubs were first established in the 1950s and 1960s and included the SMHEA employees Mutual Aid Car Club, a group of like-minded members attended the TAFE College to learn the skills required for restoring Vintage cars and the Cooma Citizens Car Club was a successful rally club that hosted a round of the NSW Rally Championships. In 1969, the Cooma Auto Racing Club was formed which promoted dirt track stock car racing and built the Alpine Speedway on Mittagang Road. The members went racing at Moruya, Canberra, Cowra and Cooma. The Monaro Chapter of the Classic and Historic Automobile Club of Australasia (CMHAC) was formed in 1999 and the name, Cooma Monaro Historic Automobile Club (CMHAC) was adopted and the Club was incorporated in 2002. The present building site came on the market in 2009, a decision to purchase the buildings was made in November and a bank loan was taken out. Massive fund raising was necessary including debentures being taken out by members. Since that time a great deal of work has been carried out including installation of a bar and commercial kitchen in the front section, and lining and insulation of the downstairs section which has been set up as museum to display members’ cars. Classic Cars and motor cycles are a common interest of members and popular Club activities include day trips as well as 3 day and longer tours. Currently the CMHAC has a membership of 186 and more than 260 vehicles with members from Cooma, Berridale, Jindabyne and Bombala and further afield including Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn, Orange, Sydney and Queensland. CMHAC is a club that enjoys fun amongst its members and guests. Both Bronnie Taylor and Dean Lynch spoke about the ‘self-help’ spirit of the Car Club and the important part that the Club pays in contributing to the local community. Keith Montague described the buildings when originally purchased as being sound but dilapidated and the enormous amount of work that has been carried out since, much of it by the free and expert labour of Club members. He also spoke in deprecating terms of his own contribution as a retired electrical engineer, was to make tea and coffee and to vacuum after the work was completed with an industrial vacuum cleaner. Keith has subsequently been awarded with a gold plated industrial vacuum cleaner and is described by many Club members as “our national living treasure”. At the close of the ceremony, Bronnie Taylor and Dean Lynch presented Rob Wolf with a checque for $50,000 from the new Snowy Monaro Regional Community Grants funding which will be used for the construction of the Club’s new Don Bottom Memorial Shed. The evening kicked on in the clubhouse with delicious canapes provided by ‘Community Chest’ members and some great music by the Ka Links. All in all, this was a memorable occasion and a good night out. - Ian Hampton
Page 12 More Event Reports
THREDBO RUN - 2nd November 2016
Twelve cars travelled to Thredbo this year for our annual drive to transport Kids with cancer and their parents/ guardians back to Cooma for lunch before returning home. A fabulous weekend of adventure and excitement was provided by the Snowy Ride organisers and Steven Walter Foundation members who raise thousands of dollars for the foundation. It is great that our members participate and help put smiles in faces when the kids and their families get to ride in the old cars. Thanks to all who gave their time.
TREASURE HUNT - 10th DECEMBER 2016
Chris and Colleen planned a very interesting route for the treasure hunt, with a few finding it easy, but some got out of sequence and couldn’t follow instructions, consequently a stop at Dalgety Pub was a better option for a coldie or two and kids getting towie, decided not to complete the course. Approximately 16 cars participated, a few with young families, and all seemed to enjoy the challenge. On their return all handed in their question/answers, whilst the judges checked through them, the children were treated with lolly bags, ice creams and cold drinks. A big Xmas tree was set up in the middle of the room with a battery operated train surrounding it, toot tooting around and around on the track, the littlies loved it and some of the big kids thought it was pretty cool too. It was time for the announcement of the results and winners. It took a while to sort out, however prizes were given for the different categories, the outright winners were Chris and Sarah along with Rob, who will have the privilege of setting the next one. The next thing on the agenda apart from having dinner, was to announce the Club Person of the year, and that person was Coral Talbot, congratulations to her, well deserved. The Club Car of the year was Maree Birchall and Dick Nichols ‘s WB Holden Ute. Don Bottom Memorial Shield went to Roy Rees for his continued dedication. After all the officialdom over and done with, it was time to enjoy a good meal and some great music by Wilko, he certainly had toes tapping, encouraging more enthusiastic dancers to try their luck on tables much to the humour of grandchildren, never imagining nannies would do such a thing, Go You Old Girls!! Thanks to everyone who came along to celebrate the end of year, look forward to a busy 2017.
Page 13 MOUNT GLADSTONE ROCKS TO THE SOUND OF V8s AND TURBO BOOST Three events combine for brilliant weekend
Over the weekend of the 26-27 November, Cooma Car Club conducted a ‘first ever’ series of three distinct hill climb sessions that had something for everyone. On Saturday morning, there was a combined Junior Driver Development/Come and Try event that had a relaxed, almost ‘farm yard’ feel that was followed by a Classic Car (30 years or more) hill climb in the afternoon, and a ‘full on’ hill climb on Sunday that was boosted by drivers and cars backing up from Saturday’s Snowy Mountains 1000 tarmac sprint.
The Hill Climb organisers are ‘highly satisfied’ with the success of their first ever Junior Driver Development program that was sponsored by the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) Club Development Fund. The first day of this program was on the 23 October when eleven young (14 to 17 years) drivers took part in a Motorkhana Training Day in Cooma and culminated on Saturday morning with eight young drivers having five runs up the Mount Gladstone track with and without instructors. This was not a competition, nevertheless all the young drivers recorded impressive improvements in their runs up the ‘Hill’ as they gained experience, developed their skills and grew in confidence. In no particular order, Isobel Willoughby improved her first run time by 21% to record a best time of 58.96s, Jacob Umback by 19% for a best of 66.7s, Jamie Katsanevas by 30% for a best of 58.05s, Georgia Heeley by 29% for a best of 64.87s, Josh Newman by 40% for a best of 62.59s, Geoffrey Dowdy by 20% for a best of 84.05s, Amanda Healy by 35% for a best of 70.91s, and Joshua Sharkey improved on his first run by 23% to record a best time of 93.07s. At the end of the session all the young drivers wanted to know “When is the next one?”.
Four other drivers who had not competed previously also took to the track at the same time to similarly take advantage of the availability of instructors and the ‘come and try’ format. These drivers also gained in confidence over the morning and similarly recorded smaller but nevertheless impressive improvements. Simon Smith improved by 9% compared to his first run to record a best time of 49.64s in a Subaru Impreza WRX, Anto Simunic improved by 10% to record a best of 52.68s in a Lexus IS250, Kerry Evans improved by 11% to record a best of 52.75s in a Mazda MX5 and Harald Stockl improved by 16% to record 64.27s in his son’s Datsun 260Z.
In the afternoon, there was a distinct change in the age if not the pace of the drivers and cars with the running of the Classic Cars session when seven over 30 years’ cars and their similarly ‘classic’ drivers took to the track for five timed runs up the hill. In fact, the cars at least were far from geriatric as they included Anthony Hyde in his very fast turbo-charged Volvo 242 GT who recorded a best time of 43.91s, Dan and Tony Matthews in Dan’s fast Ford Escort in which Dan took the honours with a best time of 47.19s, evergreen Rogan Corbett in his fast and ‘spectacular’ Valiant Charger E49 who recorded a best of 50.34s, Allan Webbie in his unique 202 Holden engined Cortina who recorded a best of 55.26s, Steve Redden who recorded a best of 63.99s in his Leyland P76 and Ian Hampton who drove his 1951 Peugeot with a power output of 40 kW on a good day to a best time of 69.6s.
Page 14 There were 38 competitors in Sunday’s hill climb which became ‘one for the ages’ as three drivers and cars traded fastest times over the day in a fascinating Fastest Time of the Day competition. At the end of the first run, newcomer Reece McIntosh was fastest in his AWD Volkswagen Golf with 41.42s, Brendan Coote was second in 42.34s in his fantastic little 2WD Peugeot 205 GTI ‘hot hatch’, and third was the Mount Gladstone record holder Warrick Cuthbert in his 450 kW Nissan Skyline GTR 34 with 42.48s. The 3 drivers then traded fastest times over the next five hours. After four runs, Warrick was seemingly once again ‘king of the mountain’ with a best time of 40.62s, ahead of Reece’s best of 40.82s and Brendan’s best of 41.8s. In the last run, as 6th driver, Warrick went further ahead with an excellent 40.58s, and held that position until the second last run of the day when Reece ‘captured the day’ with a fantastic 40.43s.
The title of unofficial king of the big 2WD sedans went to Darren Chambers in his Holden Commodore HSV GTS with a best of 44.36s, closely followed by Dean Godfrey in his ‘quiet achiever’ Ford Falcon G6ET with 44.57s and Jason Robinson in a Holden Commodore HSV GTS 300 with a best of 44.68s. It was notable that the HSV drivers who also competed in the Snowy Mountains 1000 on Saturday were notably smoother and quicker than they were in 2015.
On the day, there were a number of other very close competitions and the class winners are shown below. However, that didn’t seem to be what this event was all about, that was summed up at the end of the day by Holden Commodore HSV driver David Deaves saying to one of the flag marshals “Thank you, I had a brilliant day!”.
Out of a total 38 competitors, the Class winners on the day were: Tom Ballard Type 1-2 0-1600cc Mazda MX5 best time 47.7s Adam Jorritsma Type 1-2 1601-2000cc Peugeot 206 GTI180 best time 47.04s Tony Potter Type 1-2 2001-3000cc Datsun SSS best time 48.9s Dean Godfrey Type1-2 over 3000cc Ford Falcon G6ET best time 44.57s Sophie Katsanevas Type1-2 AWD 2001-3000cc Subaru Liberty best time 53.84s Andreas Proesser Type1-2 AWD over 3000cc Subaru Impreza WRX best time 43.96s Michael Primrose Type 3 0-1600cc Toyota MR2 best time 46.25s Brendan Coote Type 3 over 3000cc Peugeot 205 GTi best time 41.8s Reece McIntosh Type 3 AWD over 3000cc Volkswagen Golf R best time 40.43s Mathew Jamieson Type 4 0-1600cc Daihatsu Moke Best time 46.06s Anthony Hyde Type 4 over 3000cc Volvo 242GT Best time 44.09s Nick Coote Fastest Junior Subaru Impreza WRX Best Time 45.16s Reece McIntosh Fastest Time of the Day Volkswagen Golf R best time 40.43s
Full results for Sunday can be found at http://mtgladstonehillclimb.com.au/results/timing.html - Ian Hampton
Page 15 GETTING TOGETHER
What makes a caring community? There could be a few answers there but we saw a really good example on Sunday 22 January 2017 when the 2nd Annual Billy-Cart Derby took place at the Cooma Showground.
What’s “caring” got to do with Billy-Carts? You really have to be a part of it all to understand! When a boy or a girl says to his Dad or his Grandpa – “will you make a billy cart for me” then something stirs in the heart and mind of the person concerned. “Hmmmm – I had a Billy Cart once” is often the reaction and the seed has been sown. But then the teenager hears about a Billy Cart Derby and he too wants one. Dad of course still holds some ambition to be a race driver and before long out to the garage (or the tip) he goes to build a family billy cart. Grandpa who some think should know better is caught up in the thrill of building a billy cart. Mum and Grandma, both pleased to see this newfound male enthusiasm are pleased to make a cuppa and bake some scones to keep the male members of the household out from under their feet. Before long, friends along the street hear about a Billy Cart Derby and they too are caught up in the planning for the great day. Not to be left out of it, next the Rural Fire Brigade who have everything under control on the fire front decide to “be in it”. Some of the Business Houses cannot let the opportunity go by without they too make an entry. There were some novel designs besides the traditional rope steered box on a centre board, one being a motor mower (minus engine) fitted with a chair and driven at speed by a “Sergeant Schulz” look alike. Queanbeyan heard about it and sent excellent entries. The ever attentive Cooma Police arrived on the scene and checked the speed of billycart entries – good on ‘em! Behind all the activity of designing & building billy carts were the organisers Tony Nassar of Roses Restaurant and active Car Club Member with his offsider Kurt Wassink. Leadership at its best! They set about getting volunteers to help on the day which required setting up the numerous safety hay bales (thanks David Baron), crowd control fencing, catering, coffee, cool drinks, ice cream and checking out the 34 billy cart entries for safety. Tony thanked all who helped including the Cooma Car Club members, the Monaro Post for their excellent coverage of the event shown in the Wednesday issue January 25th 2017 and everyone who attended.
Perhaps one of the most memorable events was that of the 5 -8 year old class Elyssa Gould who won every heart. No she didn’t win. She crashed repeatedly into hay bales, got up and started again. That’s courage and she was awarded the Judges Prize! Any function that can bring together Mum’s, Dad’s, Grandpa’s, teenagers, boys and girls and Business Houses of Cooma – NOW THAT IS A CARING COMMUNITY!
Page 16 Snowy Mountains 1000 - 26th November 2016 On 26th November 2016 over 130 entrants in the Snowy Mountains 1000 sprint gathered at Cooma Airport for the 4th running of the popular event. Near perfect conditions greeted the drivers who were keen to post an early fast speed before the air temperature rose slowing the turbo powered cars. Sadly, technical problems with the timing systems delayed the intended start time and a collision with the finish lights reduced the number of runs available to the competitors to test their cars. Nevertheless, the big guns fired and records fell. Chris Thompson drove his Nissan R35 GTR to a new National 1000 metre sprint time and speed record of 16.5 seconds and 336 kph with a number of other drivers making 300k + in 2wd and 4wd big horsepower machines. Sally-Anne Hains drove her Porche 997 Turbo to a creditable 19.3 seconds at 269kpk to be the fastest lady on the day. Good crowds turned up to watch drivers trying to post p.b.’s and then at lunchtime were treated to a closer inspection of the various machines entered. A number of Cooma Car Club members turned up to test their pride and joy including Mathew Jamieson, who took out quickest normally aspirated 4 cylinder in the mighty “Gadjet”. Warwick Cuthbert was 17th quickest out of 132entrants posting 20.7 seconds and 259 kph on his best runs . “Team Wickspeed” had a mixed bag on the result sheet with Melbourne based Keirman Wicks giving his 4WD 350 LSI powered creation its first outing ever on his first 1000 metre attempt. Sadly, the electronic shift auto would not change out of second gear and 164 kph was his best when third and fourth couldn’t be found. Mr Consistency, Hayden Wicks driving the Lancer Evo 7, fought a mysterious top end misfire to keep all runs within 0.2 second and 3 kph of each other, whilst down on top speed expected overall. David Wicks (Captain Slow) managed to coax a best speed of 194 kph from the “Black Pearl” and almost completed a full day’s motorsport without stuffing up second to third gear changes. One incident during the day involved the “Pulse Racing” Lancer Evo 8, Australia’s fastest 4 cylinder car over 1000 metres. After a first run of 290.3kph the team decided to lower the rear wing to reduce drag on the next attempt causing driver Paul Fisher to lose control and spin off the airport surface at over 220k’s. Good natured Paul requested a little more rear wing for the next run but couldn’t match the first.
Following a great day’s racing, entrants headed for the presentation back in Cooma and home for the rest. Thanks to Adam, Angela and the Snowy Mountains team for promoting and delivering another event benefitting the participating motorsport fraternity and the wider Cooma district’s business community.
Page 17 GET THE GOSS
LE’TAPE CYCLING EVENT Rogan’s imagination certainly came to the fore when he decided to ‘tap’ into the Le’Tape Cycling event in the mountains and surrounding towns. A ‘Big Bike’ approximately 5 metres long and 3 metres tall, bright yellow and set up in Centennial Park covered in lights for all to see, especially during the evening, and of course it’s cousin, a three seater welded together and mounted in the roundabout, also lit up at night, certainly raised some eyebrows and attracted some interesting people. One of those was Chris Frome, organiser of the Le’Tape event, who was thrilled with KEITH’S BIRTHDAY SURPRISE the enormous replica and had a photo So good to see Keith back home after his taken in front of it, onlookers couldn’t stint in hospital, can’t hold a good man believe their eyes, but it also attracted down. He had a good break with nurses some “Night Riders” who unfortunately treating him like royalty and Keith lapping didn’t appreciate the purpose of the it up, can never get too many kisses and sculpture. cuddles Keith would say. The day of his We should mention our local cyclists who birthday a group of us, about 10, took a participated in both the short and long cake, balloons, card, plates and knife, routes of the event, after months of serviettes off to visit Keith with the aim of preparation, and congratulations to the surprising him for his 93rd birthday, and other towns with their bike sculptures of indeed he was. Keith was frail, but the look different colours bringing interest to this on his face certainly expressed what he was event which will become an annual feeling, couldn’t believe the gathering, and occurrence. we all enjoyed a piece of the cake complete with the usual Blue icing, leaving us with blue tongues and fingers. It was a lovely afternoon, and Keith appreciated the effort, there were other visitors waiting to spend time with him, so we departed with a good feeling. CAR CLUB DRIVING NURSERY welcome our newest addition little Olivia Mae Pendergast, yes it’s an order for pink overalls! (Pictured above, the oldest and youngest Car Club members)
Page 18 Bruce’s teenage son had just passed his driving test and asked his dad if he could borrow the ute. Bruce was not at all keen on his pisshead son hooning around in his beloved V8 Holden so he set some conditions. "You bring your grades up from C to a B average, study your bible, ... the and get your hair cut. Then we’ll talk about the ute." The son thought about that for a moment, decided he’d settle for the offer, last and they agreed on it. After about six weeks, Bruce said, ‘mate, you’ve brought your grades up, and I noticed that you have been studying your bible, but you laugh haven’t had your hair cut. The boy said ‘You know, Dad, I’ve noticed in my studies of the bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair….. And there’s even strong evidence that Jesus had long hair’. To this Bruce replied, ‘Yes, and did you notice they all walked everywhere they went?’
An Irishman was terribly overweight, so his doctor put him on a diet. 'I want you to eat regularly for 2 days, then skip a full day, and repeat this procedure for 2 weeks. The next time I see you, you should have lost at least 5 pounds.' When the Irishman returned, he shocked the doctor by having lost nearly 60 POUNDS! 'Why, that's amazing!' the doctor said, 'Did you follow my instructions?' The Irishman nodded...'I'll tell you though, by jaesuz, I t'aut I were going to drop dead on dat 3rd day.' 'From hunger, you mean?' 'No, from f**kin' skippin', the Irishman said
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