Oh so British 2014 ( 1948 Slough Lt 15 ) Brisbane.
This has the ID19, 4 speed conversion. (Now Eric & Jane's)

September 2014 Janet and I trundled off to be British for the day taking the '48 Light 15. The odd person at the gate seemed confused at the site of a "French" car but we held our ground explaining that the Citroen factory in Slough was something to be reckoned with.
All manner of British cars and trucks were there. One has to admire the owner of a Mark 10 Jag,.
it makes a Citroen DS23 with air conditioning seem simple in comparison. The beautiful old Rolls Royces, the tough Standard Vanguards that seem more Australian than English, Landrovers,
and oh yes, the lovely Riley
and I can go on - - so yes, a great day

PACKARDS AT PORTARLINGTON Sun. 8th Dec. 2024

Michael, Janet and I were off on this Sunday morning at 7.30am to attend a
Packard Club Christmas get together at Curlewis near Portarlington.
Our 1946 Packard Clipper cruised happily along the country road through Ballan and
Anakie arriving in West Geelong around 9am cruising between 40 and 50mph.
Our usual café in Pakington street was a lot busier than usual being a Sunday but we
still managed a table in amongst the throng of of the trendy Sunday morning breakfast set.
After picking up the odd box of tea at our favourite (historic) Italian grocer across the street
and some things in the discount chemist we made our way to 30 Avila Road Curlewis
where there was quite a showing of different era Packards on show.
Dale Collins who helped a great deal to get our 1928 Packard up & running asked
whether we would go so we were happy that Dale & Junee were there to greet us.
Most of the people we had met but there was one called Tom who lives at Breamlea
who owns a 1953 Packard. After too long a time he got the automatic gearbox back from
the repairer at Tullamarine so he is looking forward to getting it in and seeing how the car goes.
We all enjoyed the day getting to know the people and admiring the cars.
There was a 1953 or so convertible, Barry Smith's gold Dietrich bodied club convertible,
a 1936 black 6 cyl. Sedan owned by Fred Dosser, a very nice 1964 Sudebaker,
a later Packard sedan maybe 1964, a 1938 eight cylinder limousine,
Dale & Junee’s 1940 Lasalle (Cadillac ) and our Clipper.

A local Cars & Coffee in Daylesford 1st Dec 2024

The weather report was a bit dicey but it turned out a
great morning for a few of us at the Mill.
We were amongst good company with a 1920 Rolls Royce silver ghost.
Tom brought his 1937 Lanz Bulldog which he parked near a 1957
2 door Chev and Michael came in his earlyish red Range Rover.
Ken brought his 1929 Chev sedan and we brought a few cars to pad things out.
The Chev ute is a beauty.

John, Janet & Michael.

TRENTHAM SHOW & SHINE Nov.17th 2024

This last Sunday was Trentham Show & Shine. The weather report was not optimistic
by any means but as fellow car enthusiast, Peter Brown at Bullarto, used to say,
“if something is scheduled to be on - - rain or shine - - we go !! “.
The 1913 T.H. Schneider went well as usual and was very popular with the public.
Brother Michael brought his 1924 Hupmobile and
friend Dan drove in on his Fiat tractor as his Alvis needs a new inlet manifold.

 

LAKE GOLDSMITH & DAYLESFORD CARS & COFFEE 3rd & 4th Nov 2024

Saturday we went to Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally here in Victoria, west of Ballarat.
This is one of two in the year and draws people from near & far.

We took our 1946 Packard Clipper and brother Michael in his red P6 Rover.
A 1948 Nash parked next to us.

This Sunday we took our 1929 Chrysler, 1946 Packard Clipper, 1953 Vauxhall Vagabond, 1950 Citroen Big 6 and the 1968 DS to a Cars & Coffee in Daylesford.

Lots of fun - - John, Janet & brother Michael.

Cars & Coffee

Cars & Coffee

Lake Goldsmith

Cars & Coffee

Lake Goldsmith
'46 Packard next to '48 Nash

Lake Goldsmith grand parade

A Grand Day for a Grand Display 27th Oct 2024

Everyone seemed to be there from Ian Steele of Just Cits in Queensland to Peter Boyle - - champion of Citroens for decades. The mighty sphere expert, Wolfgang, manning the
CCCV stall and owners of many iconic cars parked in the great surroundings
of Woodlands homestead, not far from Tullamarine airport.
The converted black DS ute from Port Campbell way is for sale along with the beautiful
DS Safari. - - Brother Michael was impressed with the yellow
B12 Citroen roadster which is similar to his B2 but just that bit bigger.
The French Renault with the scuttle bonnet was - - oh so French !!!
The ex Vietnam pre war Traction coupe wasn’t running too well so
“Steeley” got to it and had it purring in no time. We had a bit of a picnic display with
flag flying which added to the great vibe of the day.

Sunday 6th October, 2024 - - 1st Cars & Coffee at Daylesford Mill Market

With daylight saving kicking in this morning we woke at 5.00am to heavy rain,
which did not look good for this morning’s event at the Daylesford Mill from
8.00am to 10.00am. A few of us in the Daylesford area decided to have a bit of fun
but when the rain bucketed down we thought it best to bring more than one car
in case others decided not to turn up. For us it was close to home so we
hoped the weather would hold out after it kind of cleared around 7am.
By the time we were ready to start shifting cars the morning had cleared but
remained cold and very overcast. We took the 1928 and 1946 Packards, the
Citroen 1950 Big 6, the 1955 Light 15 and the 1953 Vauxhall Vagabond.
Michael arrived with dogs in his 1927 Crossley so between us we made quite an
impressive display. There wasa beautiful 2-door 1951 black Chevrolet,
an original 1978 bright yellow Mini-Minor, Tom in his 1950 Land Rover etc etc
so it turned out a great morning with a nice coffee and cake inside.

John, Janet and Michael.

 

Sunday 15th Sept. 2024 - - Bathurst

We’ve just come back from a six day holiday as far as Gulgong near Mudgee in our
1992 Nissan Patrol Diesel. I’ve said it many times before how we are so lucky to live in Australia. Abercrombie House in Bathurst with its line up of de-composing
Austin Sheerlines was well worth the visit. The Pioneer museum in Gulgong, through rough country to Hill End and onto Sofala and getting back to historic Carcoar.
The highlight has to be going into an opp shop in Bathurst and finding a carry tray of
1970’s FIRE KING orange cups. Two cups were missing out of six but I have one to add
to the set. I made up my mind there and then that we would take the
1974 D Special to the Cars & Coffee so we can try for a half decent 1970’s
picnic display. North of Junee we followed an old rail motor through the hills.
It was like turning the clock back.
The reason for the trip in the first place was to go to the annual Shepparton Swap.
There was plenty there so a good day. While in Shepparton we made another visit
to the MOVE Vehicle Museum and were very impressed with a 1947 or so Tucker car.
On our way back we stopped in Gundagai and enjoyed a coffee & cake in the
Niagara Café. Last time we were there the café was closed and looking rather
derelict so it was good to see it up and running once more.

Cars & Coffee - - Trentham

This Sunday morning with the car loaded up we were off to Trentham Cars & Coffee.
We arrived early to have a bite to eat at the Red Beard Bakery.
Walking back to the Railway Station, which is where the events are held,
Michael had arrived in his early 1970,s P6 Rover. We parked the cars so that
we had some room in between for our picnic things.
Everything went well and our display attracted its fair share of attention.

Shepparton Swap

Carcoar

Abercrombie House Bathurst

Austin Sheerlines at Abercrombie

Cowra to Young

Tucker at "The Move" Shepparton

Niagara Cafe Gundagai

Cars & Coffee in the 1974 D Special

Portarlington - - Saturday 31st August & Sunday 1st September 2024

A busy weekend to the Bellarine Peninsula in our 1968 Citroen Safari ID21F with Michael in his 1970’s P6 Rover pulling a teardrop caravan, with the two dogs on board. There was to be a “Vintage Machinery & Steam Engine” event with old cars and markets on the Father’s Day Sunday at the One Day Winery at Curlewis which we were looking forward.

Arriving early in West Geelong on Saturday morning we enjoyed our usual coffee and treats and then met Michael at the Vintage Market in the old Pilkington Glass factory building close by.
As we’d picked up some Land Rover Parts from a place at Moolap a month or so before on Michael’s behalf, John thought he’d show Michael where the place was just past the old salt works by Corio Bay. The owners hadn’t yet closed up this Saturday afternoon so Michael was in his glory being shown around the workshop with Land Rovers in all different stages of restoration, one beautifully restored, being loaded onto a tandem ; very inspiring indeed. After that we made our way to Portarlington, had lunch at the bakery and booked a cabin in the Portarlington Holiday Park right on Port Phillip Bay, very windy and blustery. A long walk along the beach to give the dogs a play and then dinner in town that night.

On the Sunday morning after breakfast we turned up at the ‘One Day Winery’ at Curlewis where the steam event was to be and found the gates closed and no sign of activity. We googled the event, only to discover that it had been cancelled because of the steadily increasing gusty and potentially damaging winds. Undeterred, we pushed onwards to fill the day with all sorts of activities.
Barwon Heads was not far away so off we went for morning tea at Annie’s Providore and a play with the dogs on the beach, then a quick drive to the Newcomb Mill near Geelong for a browse and up to Ocean Grove and Queenscliffe to the Op shops and the museum. The Museum, since its refurbishment a couple of years back, is now but a mere shadow of its former self when there was much to see of great interest. Should have been kept just as it had been. After all, who really wants to see a vintage Prue Acton and Kerri Craig dress on display when visiting such a beautiful town with historical significance. When we asked the attendant where all the former artefacts were, he said they are stored in the basement under controlled conditions and will re-appear from time to time as the exhibits change. Boo Hoo, we wanted to see them all now! After that we thought we’d see how the surf scene was at Point Lonsdale as the winds were so strong and the seas big. There were some surfers out and after questioning why there were so many people observing the heads of Port Phillip Bay we were informed that the Spirit of Tasmania was coming soon. Not long after we saw the magnificent sight of this ship coming through the Heads. They had postponed one of the sailings the evening before and this crossing would have been a rough one as the large swells with high winds were coming to a peak. When we went back to our caravan park the wind was howling. We went into town for dinner and all had an early night with the winds supposedly reaching gusts of 100- 130km/hr. Our windows seemed set to blow in and the rain was pelting against the glass. Michael must have been buffeted about in his little teardrop, but we all seemed to get to sleep and woke to a new day unharmed. Quite a lot of branches scattered around but no real damage to be seen.

And so it ended up to be a great weekend.

Oh yes, the 50 so Golden Oldies cars came through Daylesford.

John, Janet & Michael - - - & the dogs.

Marong Picnic Car Show Sunday 25th Aug. 2024

Stormy weather was predicted but not till later in the day so it looked like the
Marong Picnic would be fine. Having had our “new” 1946 Packard Clipper
registered for just a few days it was exciting to go out for a cruise.
Brother Michael was taking his 1927 Crossley and younger
brother Hans in his 1958 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud.
Marong is south west of Bendigo. We go through Maldon - - head north, and then west.

Peter turned up from Bacchus Marsh way in his very nice Light 15. He has a DS
also and has been around Citroens for a very long time.

There were about 51 pre 1930’s vintage cars there which were taking off about
1.30 for a week long Golden Oldies tour. Janet and I have been on two of these.
Apart from being great fun one learns a lot from the many clever people on how
to keep these old cars going under all types of conditions. Double-de- clutching,
getting your head around vacuum tanks for petrol, odd brakes, carburettors,
tyres, steering etc - - - so always a lot to learn.

There were plenty of other cars to look at and it is always interesting to chat
with owners about how the hours were spent on getting them up and running.

On our return we left the Packard at Michael’s to do more cleaning and painting
underneath and drove the D Special home in - - - - a deluge of rain.

and the Clipper in Daylesford

TRENTHAM 18thAug. 2023

The other day I was juggling cars and marvelling at how the outdated design of the
1955 Citroen Light 15 was still selling well alongside the “modern” 1953
Vauxhall Vagabond. Some people were fortunate to have parents that owned the earlier Citroens. After my father sold his fully imported RH drive 1957 Chevrolet Belair
in the early 1960’s he had work cars with one being a Falcon the rest being Holdens.
After getting my licence in a Holden FC ute I drove mainly FC and EK Holdens as
work horses often towing big American cars on a tandem behind. I was often
amazed at how good the clutches were as I would invariably be stopped on a
red light in the middle of Brisbane and having to slip the clutch on the steep incline
with smoke billowing from under the car. It was about 1980 when I bought a D Special.

And so it was these fun “Holden years” that made me want to relive them in the form of our Vauxhall. Secretly - - it is my FC Holden convertible - - - that they never made.
So the Vauxhall with it’s 6 Cylinder Holden sound is fun to drive but hey - - is way
behind the Traction in performance so the people who were still buying Tractions in the
50’s had good reason to do so. As far as towing heavy loads
- - that was probably left to Holdens - - etc.

On our return from Trentham this morning, driving the Light 15, we had a gold DS
in front of us as we entered busy Daylesford. This is so very exciting as we seldom
see a DS on the road Often we are IN a DS but that is just not the same as seeing
one cruising in all its glory along a country road.

On that note, Michael has been going to Hamilton in his ’62 Safari as he finds the
long legged nature of the beast the best one for the job and also - - - our Packard
- - hopefully - - will be on the road soon.

Oh yes, last weekend we hopped in with Michael in his yellow Series 3 Landrover
and went with some other 4WD's through the bush behind Trentham.

Aug 4, 2024

Again this Sunday morning, being the 4th of August, we took the Big 6 to Daylesford Market & Trentham.

Two weeks ago we headed for the Mornington Peninsula to Visit Beleura House overlooking Port Phillip Bay at Mornington after boarding the Queenscliffe ferry for Sorrento.

For holidays of this kind we often take our 1992 Nissan Patrol TD42 Diesel. We were ready for the extra traffic as it has the direct influence of Melbourne rather than the more sleepy nature of Queenscliffe and Ocean Grove being closer to Geelong. It was interesting that the last resident of Beleura House owned a 1948 or so Mark 4 Jaguar and a 1967 P6 Rover. His name was John Tallis who was part of the family who owned the grand place since the 1800’s. He seemed to have had a blessed life going to Paris in 1948 and not coming back till about 10 years later. One couldn’t think of a better time to be in Europe than those post war years. He brought back a little Fiat Toppolino which he drove all over Europe and even bought another one in later life as he sold his original one early on. His P6 Rover which back in the 60’s and 70’s was a well respected car and the Toppolino reside in the garages on display and one can’t help feeling that for all the time he was in France he might have bought a Traction or DS.
He studied the arts and brought many an international show to Melbourne. Apparently he wasn’t fond of driving and only drove the Rover locally to the shops and around Mornington. The big Jaguar was driven by his chauffeur when John needed to go to Melbourne so it was probably that he didn’t have the confidence to make the big step of a Traction or DS.

We spent the next day up at Arthur’s Seat going through Charlie’s Auto Museum. We were very impressed as there was so much to look at and there was even a Desoto Airflow which was looking great. I asked him why there was nothing Citroen and he commented that he had been offered the odd one but didn’t go through with any. I suppose even the sort of rust buckets that we know of would still be a good display as they don’t necessarily need to go.

We finally got the roadworthy on the ’46 Packard. It was a big effort to pull the rear hubs off the tapered shafts but I got there in the end using heat with the puller at full strength. I put anti-sieze on the shafts when assembling them. One needs to take them off for a roadworthy so the brakes can be inspected. I haven’t done traction ones for a good while but after this effort I could take on - - anything.
It has been fun swapping between the Packard and the Big 6 as they are such different cars. The Packard is a very comfortable cruiser but to bring it around corners at speed is another thing. The Big six leaves it for dead in these situations but the quality of the ride in the Packard is great to experience.

July 21st 2024

Yesterday, in the pouring rain I took our “new” 1946 Packard Clipper to brother Michael’s place
using a 28 day unregistered vehicle permit. I have it booked in for a roadworthy late in the month
so we drove it up on ramps to clean and paint underneath. This is a huge post war car so it was very interesting to have my first drive - - - having a big 6 cylinder engine of 4000cc. As it has had lots of mechanical work done it sits on the road very well but after driving the Citroen Big 6 this morning
I was again reminded how advanced the Traction was at that time with the rack and
pinion steering making it so easy and light to drive. It is no wonder that Peter Dammon did so well.

In the 1970’s I had a number of big American cars that I bought and sold to just make a quid but
I never took them too seriously. As our family lived in Holland in the late 50’s I was made aware
then and later on that business men in Holland and probably the rest of Europe liked American cars.
My Grandfather had a woollen mill in Holland that he struggled to pay off as he had to pay out his
siblings when it was handed down from the earlier generation. Just as things were coming good
the Germans invaded and he had to work for them making blankets etc for the soldiers. I am told
that even back in the 30’s he had bought a Ford and when I was six or so I remember
riding in a brown Ford convertible
and so along with a lot of the “upperclass” he drove only American cars.
When he died in the late 50’s his surviving wife bought an ID 19 - - later, a Hydraulique Pallas,
a BX that I drove on one of my visits and so-on.
On an earlier visit I was picked up by my step grandfather on the other side of the family in an
early 60’s Ford Thunderbird so again, an American car. He owned department stores.
My mother who drove a 750 Renault here in Australia loved European cars and sewed the seed in us children by pointing out a DS Citroen on the very rare occasions.
So here we are in very much a computer world and I still have this
bit of a fascination with the - - big American car. - - John

 

Thursday 11th July, 2024 PACKARD Christmas in July

We had the D Special out a few times. I like this car in winter as it tends to run pretty warm in the summer time. The ’67 – ’68 cars run a bit cooler I feel and of course the ID’s with the long stroke motors don’t seem to run hot at all.

I cleared the windscreen washer jets with some fuse wire and got to the driver’s side sunvisor. It has been getting very stiff to put up and down so I unscrewed it - - pulled the rubber support back and squirted some INOX MX3FG FOOD GRADE LUBRICANT down. I don’t know why I hadn’t done this long ago as it now works a treat.

Also we had the 1954 Light 15 out for a jaunt to Trentham this last Sunday. I thought the clutch was a bit funny a while ago so I put a bit more oil into the oiling point up front. It is working fine so here’s hoping that there is nothing untoward. It’s a lovely car to drive.

The previous Thursday we took our 1928 Packard to the Packard Club’s Christmas in July run to the cosy Plough Hotel in Myrniong.

Brother Michael was keen to join in and expressed a courageous, some might say fool-hardy desire to travel in the rumble/dickey seat in the wintery air. He donned goggles, his deer-stalker hat, thick scarf and layers of gear and braced himself for take-off whilst Janet and I travelled in chilly but relative comfort inside the cabin on this very gloomy and very cold morning via the Daylesford-Ballan road and onto the freeway to Myrniong. The Packard travelled very well indeed and upon arriving at The Plough we were soon joined by four other Packards - - 8-cylinder 1946 and 1948 Clippers, a ‘56 Caribbean and a 1938 big sedan. Friends, Dale & Junee, who helped us enormously to get our ’28 Packard on the road arrived in their glamorous silver 1940 La Salle convertible coupe.

Whilst we did check from time to time that Michael had not blown out of the dickey seat somewhere along the highway, he survived the journey uncomplainingly and felt quite surprisingly protected against the elements. Of course, other members arrived in their heated moderns with not a hair out of place and the group of about 30 lunched and chin-wagged, warmed against the chill and impending threat of rain by the two blazing log fires inside.
It was interesting to examine some of the exquisite design details of the few wonderful Packards and the La Salle lined up outside and we were happy to have made the effort to drive our early Packard to add to the show. Janet and I are just as happy to also own a 1946 Packard Clipper which we bought in late-December 2023 and having the opportunity to compare ours with the two Clippers in attendance. The black ‘48 Clipper in the pic is mechanically fine but the paintwork is very much ‘in the raw’ and the owner’s plan is to eventually ‘do her up’. We anticipate that our ’46 Clipper will soon be on the road. The interior of ours is in original condition with exterior paintwork a little dulled and lack-lustre. I have cut and polished and she’s pretty respectable looking in our eyes. We very much like her just the way she is and that’s the way she will remain.

With the air turning icy and windy and the clouds looking darkly ominous we urged Michael to quickly get himself suitably attired for the journey home, deciding to navigate the rollercoaster Greendale-Blackwood-Trentham road for a change of scenery and terrain. We arrived safely home and put the Packard undercover just as it started to spit before developing into much-needed heavier rain that lasted throughout the night. Michael escaped a thorough drenching by the

& Michael says - - - Certainly an experience for me in the Rumble seat. Imagine the
kids back there and the parents probably didn't go to the same effort as I did, to be warm ....... "in the old days". - - - - - - . Parking the 1923 Citroen B2 Tourer
in the centre of Castlemaine yesterday to do the shopping I looked back to see a
couple having a cuddle of my big Kelpie and my Border Collie straining on their chains that secure them in the car. Without a top on the B2 .............. it certainly is a sight.

Our cars

At Myrniong

At Myrniong

At Myrniong

At Myrniong

Michael - - on the road

AUGUST 2023 - - SWAPPING OUR 1923
CITROEN B2 FOR MICHAEL'S 1955 TRACTION LIGHT 15

After doing the swap we were off to Trentham for a run.
I’ve been slogging for a week or so doing lots of little jobs that Michel never got round to. After buying the car a few years ago he did a fair bit to mechanicals. Nothing big mind you but fixing things like a screeching clutch thrust bearing and maybe fiddling with brakes, throttle and gear linkages etc. I replaced the front bumper with a better one and put some over riders on the rear bumper that haven’t been on for years. Took the awful looking blinkers off the rear guards and put them under - - - not great but okay for now. Front blinkers were replaced with some old ones I cobbled up and put the large chevrons back on the front grille - - - - being a bit naughty and putting them on the outside like the French cars. Also fitted French hubcaps for a bit of class. The rear French lights were put on years ago.

Michael wanted the little B2 to drive into Castlemaine which he has been doing. The car always draws a crowd.
I just rang him and he drove the B2 into Maldon today, Sunday 6th August 2023 as there is a gathering of Hearses and a bit of a Gothic festival going on. He parked the car close to the Museum as Adam, a friend of ours, said it was okay. The museum has all sorts of machinery, cars and even the motorbike from the movie with Eric Banner called “My brother Romulus” or so. I think the bike is a Vincent or maybe a Sunbeam.
Michael likes taking the dogs - - - all you can do is laugh !!

HAMILTON PLAINS RALLY Kings Birthday Weekend - - June 2024

As Michael and I have a sister just out of Hamilton it works in well to attend the
Kings Birthday long weekend Hamilton Plains Rally. 100 cars took part so the
large group was halved so they could alternate at two events being an
Historic house and a winery. At morning and lunch times all cars were together.
Michael took his 1962 Slough Safari and we took our 1968 Safari making a pretty good pair.
As Michael’s has the “long legged” long stroke engine he found it a bit slow behind
the older cars that were cruising at about 75 – 80 k’s so on the Sunday he
took his Series three Landrover.
It was a great weekend, the highlight being the Model T’s with their experienced drivers.
These cars only have high and low gear but still manage to lope along at a good pace
as they are light with parts being made of Vanadium steel which Henry Ford was
so passionate about. I have the engine out of our Model T at the moment so the many
hints they gave me were well received. Strengthening the 16 north and south magnets on
the flywheel has been a fascinating experience and also the north and south on the bobbin
plate coils to make up the 12-24 volt magneto. Model T’s are definitely one of a kind.

There was a big Packard and an early 30’s Auburn so there was plenty to look at.
Ian and Mary from Melbourne turned up in their very nice D Special as they did last
year so the DS range was well represented.
Driving through this red gum country with all these old cars was a treat indeed.

 

19th of May - - was Heritage day with events all over commemorating the history of “The Automobile”. We took our 1928 Packard and brother
Michael in his 1950 Cyclops P4 Rover to the old railway station at Trentham.
As I was trying to start the Packard on an early bitterly cold morning it back
fired and - - went on fire. Early cars like the Packard often don’t have air filters
so this can happen quite easily. I have never worked a fire extinguisher before so
surprised myself at my calm approach to putting it out. I carry an extinguisher in every car
and also have one on the wall in the shed and one in the house. I dread to think at what
might have happened otherwise but best not to go there. I have now made a simple tin shield
to direct the petrol drips, when starting, away from the wiring loom to the floor below.

Another day we were out in our D Special around Creswick and called in to see Eric..
He had a mate around who works in a garage in Melbourne doing exotic cars and
Rolls Royces. With some fiddling on the carbi he got it running better and pointed out
that the bush where the throttle control comes in had a tiny bit of play and could be
letting in air. I have 3 of the double throat carbis so I’ll check them out. If none come
up to scratch I’ll take the best one to “Allens Carbies” in Shelbourne near Bendigo.

We called in to a “Morning tea for Cancer” at historic Plaistow Homestead just
out of Newstead. Michael came in his 1962 Slough Safari as he is getting it ready
for a rally soon in Hamilton and we were in our D Special.
In the area we saw two Early 60’s Anglias in a paddock which is not a
common site - - along with some VW Golfs.

 

 

Sunday 14th April - - MUCKLEFORD MACHINERY

We went to the Maldon market picking up some treats to have later in the day.
Then, we stopped at the Maldon footy field where there were a few old cars.
We were in our 1968 DS and brother Michael in his 1923 B2 tourer.

We then made our way to Muckleford where there was a machinery event
over the weekend next to the station. Catching up with friends in this setting was good fun.
Then, off to Castlemaine through the back roads.
Seeing the B2 travelling these country roads at such a speed is a credit
to Michael who has got this car running beautifully - - a great day, John

Beechworth Drive Back in Time 5th May 2024

This car event is on each year and is well worth the effort. We left on the
Friday taking about 6-7 hours by the time we had coffees in Euroa
and had a stop in historic Chiltern and Yackandandah.
On the Saturday we turned up at the old Railway Station about noon for a natter
and then went for a bit of a tour through the area. Beechworth is splendid
at this time of year with all the autumn colours.
Sunday was the big day with many cars turning up. We had a bit of a display behind
our 1968 Safari and were very lucky to have a 1974 DS23 5speed next to us which
came down from Sydney. The two cars attracted a lot of attention and it was fun to
invite the odd youngster to sit in the back and front while I made the car go up and down.

 

May 1, 2024 - - C35 & SAFARI TRANSPORTING VW PANELS

Eric, a good friend, had some VW panels painted and we helped to transport
them in the 1978 Citroen C35 van and the ’68 DS Safari.
The van helped us move from Qld to Victoria and again on this little trip I was reminded
of how truly wonderful these vehicles are. Jim Reddiex at Maxim Motors in Brisbane
imported a Van and a Pickup as a trial with the view of importing them. Because of
regulations and red tape this never happened to our loss. So this is the only van in
Australia and the pickup is currently off the road, in a paddock.
So here I was, following brother Michael, marvelling at this great vehicle.
Because Janet and I didn’t need the van anymore we put it on Ebay some time ago.
Michael and my other brother bought it so to my surprise it stayed in the family.
He has tried to sell it the odd time but I think it is dear to his heart so
will stay around for some time yet.

Oh yes, as the DS panels haven’t sold Michael made them into
a wall with the help of some canvas.

GUILDFORD CAR SHOW 7th April 2024

This last Sunday we took our 1928 Packard “Cabriolet” to the Guildford car show and spotted Ken’s beautiful green 1922 Citroen B2. Ken’s health is not great so he has decided to sell this car. He’s only just come back from the Tasmanian Cit-In where he took the car.
Michael came in his yellow 1923 B2 so it was fun to have two of these rare cars at an event.
Michael also has the black 1923 B2 tourer and an un-finished B2 van so he is becoming a bit of an expert on this model as he often drives them around Castlemaine.

I have listed Ken’s green Citroen B2car in the CARS FOR SALE COLUMN.

 

MORTLAKE FEDERATION PICNIC 24th March 2024

Mortlake has this annual car show in March which has a good country atmosphere.
Cars mainly come from the Colac-Camperdown, Ballarat, Warnambool and
Hamilton regions even with some coming from Geelong and Melbourne.
So that we didn’t have the long drive early in the morning we decided to go on
the Saturday and stay there the night ready for the next day.
We called into Clunes for the annual book fair arriving there about 9.15am and picking
up the odd bargain. The rest of the drive to Mortlake was taken up by stopping at the
odd second hand shop and enjoying the Western District country side. As we were
having some lunch and some tea from a thermos which we had packed we witnessed
some vintage car enthusiasts pull over to check the load of a veteran car they were
pulling on a trailer which would be unloaded at the event the next day. In convoy with
them was a 1948 Dodge in beautiful condition. On the next day there was a similar
Dodge to this one in very original condition but black. It had been a taxi and you could
imagine it in the day with passengers getting in - - and out.
And so we stayed at the Mt Shadwell Hotel that night having quite a decent pub meal
before retiring.
Arriving early next morning in our 1968 Citroen Safari we unpacked and cobbled up a bit of a display. We focused on picnic tables etc of the era for a bit of fun. Not long after Roy
and Esther sidled up beside us in a great looking Dyane.
They actually won a prize for this “crazy looking car”.
Needless to say it was a great day with music from a wonderful band as a back drop.
It was interesting to see an inline 4 cylinder Indian Bike parked next to a similar Indian Chief of similar vintage - - - both coming from Warnambool.

CLUNES TRUCK SHOW 10th March 2024

MOOMBA PARADE CANCELLED !!! Having lived the bulk of my life in Queensland these words don’t resonate with me as they might to the true blue Melbournian. Yes, it is hot.
Yesterday we left home in our 1929 Chrysler to head for the old gold town of Clunes where the Annual Truck & Vehicle Show is held. At between 7 and 8am it was a delight to be driving through the beautiful farming country of this region. We were hoping to see a Citroen DS which was to call in on its way to Tasmania.
Brother Michael turned up not long after us from Castlemaine in his 1950 Cyclops Rover as we were setting up our display. We were glad this event wasn’t cancelled because of the hot weather but didn’t expect a big turnout.
The mostly dry heat doesn’t bother me as does the often sauna conditions experienced in Queensland.
Surprisingly there was a decent lot of cars along with the many trucks and some buses on display. Our wind-up gramophone and trinkets of the past gave joy to many as they reminisced of days gone by. Close by in a shed the owner of a red Mark VII Jaguar showed us a two tone green Mark VIII Jaguar for sale at $10,000. The engine ticked over nicely which was fun to hear as these engines were the life blood of the XK120’s, 140’s and 150’s. It needed finishing off with upholstery and dash work which I suppose the young crowd would rather put in to an old Holden EK or more excitedly, a Monaro. To ask the youth of today to become excited about a Traction or DS is probably pushing it as much as this grand old car.

The journey home was without drama although a few steep long hills might have told a different story. The Hot day might not have helped to bring the DS to Clunes or it might be still travelling the highways from Queensland as I write this.

The Saturday a week before saw us travelling to the Ballan swap meet in our 1955 Light fifteen. I picked up some old blinker parts which allowed me to finish a project of replacing the 1970’s versions that were still on the car. Some after market blinkers get away with it but some do not.

For everyday transport the ’68 Safari and ID19 have been going well along with the Big six. We were out to a market in Kyneton for some olive oil and on the way home, in our 1954 Sunbeam Alpine, came across about 20 pre 1953 Indian motorbikes which again was good fun.

 

24th Feb 2024 - - KINGSTON SWAP + SHOW & SHINE

What fun to go cruising through the Goldfields in the 1950 Citroen Big 6
- - - a mighty car arriving at about 8.30 am at the Kingston Showground.
Brother Michael brought his 1950 or so Rover Cyclops and Dale and Junie arrived
a little later in the ex Norm Beechey Buick sloper. They have it for sale at around
$47,000 after Dale went through it to get it up to an exceptional standard.
It is a rare machine with the larger 8 cylinder engine with original twin carbies.

We then went on to Clunes for a coffee - - cruising so effortlessly in the Big 6.

 

 

Sunday 18th Feb.2024 - - YARRAGLEN BRITISH & EUROPEAN DAY

On the Saturday Michael in his 1959 Rover P4 100 and Janet and I in our 1954
Sunbeam Alpine headed for Kinglake to stay the night. From here, on Sunday morning,
it was only about 20 minutes for us to arrive at 7.15 am at the yearly Yarraglen
British & European car event. Entry was a few minutes later so we were nice and early
to set up a small display. By the time we pack things for an overnight stay there
isn’t much room left in our classic sports car.
As always it is a big day and there was lots of fun to be had. Hans left Castlemaine
early the Sunday morning in his magnificent cream coloured Jaguar Mark 10 - 420G.
There were another two Mark ten types.

PS :- I helped out with a wedding the week before.

 

Hanging Rock Sunday 11th Feb.2024

It’s been a busy weekend. Saturday was the Glenlyon Swap plus show & shine.
The 1968 DS Safari was loaded up, ready to go. A Melbourne man was coming up to
have a look at our ‘54 Sunbeam Talbot sports car which we have for sale so we also
brought that along to this great country setting. The Melbourne enthusiast turned up
and knew everything about Alpines, Sunbeam Talbots & so-on. One of the reasons he
might not be the buyer is that he is not as slim as he probably was when he had one back in
the 1970’s when he owned one in England. The Safari and the Alpine attracted a lot of attention.

Next day, Sunday 11th Feb. was bigger than Ben Hur. Our 1928 Packard Convertible
Coupe / Cabriolet was ready with golf bags included ready to go at daybreak.
Over just an hour we arrived at “The Rock” with brother Michael arriving
soon after in his English 1927 Crossley..
In contrast with many car events, the people coming here are mostly young with
the bulk probably coming from Melbourne’s outer suburbs.
As Barry Humphries was known to say, “Sports like footy do well to keep the young
busy - - - and out of mischief”’. I think this is relevant in the car movement - - me included.
There are many languages spoken when discussing what type of engine might be
under the bonnet, horsepower, turbos and so-on. This is the fun of
“Picnic at Hanging Rock”, the diversity of the crowd that partake in this huge car event.

There were not a great number of English and European cars there but we did
spot a Citroen 2CV and a red D Special.

Feb 2, 2024

Michael's been doing a few swaps - - - some veteran Hupmobile stuff, a 1925 Hupmobile and the 1923 Buick ute for an army series 2 Landrover, a series 2 little ute, a pretty good trayback and some others so we were juggling and loading cars.

Michael decided to swap the 1925 Hupmobile away as he thought it was a bit smoky.
I didn;t think it was all that bad.
He's keeping the 1923 cream Hupmobile as it is quite a good car.

Jan 27, 2024 - - Yes, we did buy the '46 Packard. At $12,000 I couldn't resist.
G'day Bob - - there are a few of us silly ones left.

Attended New Years Day at the old Muckleford school.
This is always a good old Australian picnic.

The day after we headed north to Brisbane in our ’92 Nissan patrol TD42 Diesel.
It didn’t miss a beat through some beautiful Australian countryside.
It’s been 7 years since we moved down and it was great to see the old Qld houses
on stumps again in the lush subtropics. We’re so fortunate to be in this “lucky country”..

It was all a bit of - - - “a blast from the past”.

Dec 12th, 2023 -- Bought a 1946 Packard Clipper 6 which I have been polishing madly.

Ballarat Spring Fest Sunday 26th November 2023.

Leaving early in the 1968 ID19b we did the
rounds of the Maldon swap and picked up “a few bargains”.

At 8am we headed to Lake Wendouree where the annual Ballarat Springfest was on.

With about 450 market stalls we did a lot of walking.
Dale, who very much helped me do an engine swap in our ’28 Packard was there
in his newly finished ’48 Buick sloper so we thought we’d have a look-in on mainly USA
and hotrods as the car event next to all the Sringfest markets was held by the hotrod club.

Our DS attracted a lot of attention because it is so different to the norm.

 

Sunday 3rd Sept. 2023

We took the 1974 D Special to Lambley Nursery a few miles west of Creswick
this last Friday. There was a tour through the nursery plus the private garden area.
The place is for sale after being of great service to the gardening community far and wide with their propagating of rare plant species. We will miss this “gem in the country” that started its life as a potato farm and a derelict old farmhouse - - - an inspiration for all who come after. To be cruising through country Victoria on an early spring day in a DS is a privilege we never take for granted.

Today, Sunday we headed for the Red Beard Bakery in Trentham in the Big 6 for a cuppa
and a breakfast pie. The Big 6 cruises well and has a lot of get up & go when planting
one’s foot. It is a contrast to the 4 cylinder Light 15 which will also move when you want
it to but isn’t as smooth and powerful as the Big 6. I can imagine Peter Dammon racing
his big 6 in the early 50’s. He would have put his foot down and the car would
accelerate round the corners and stick like glue - - what joy indeed.
Not to forget Wright and O’Shea driving a Big 6 in the mid 50’s Red-Ex trial when in
Eucla their car caught fire with the tank exploding and losing their gear plus
100 pounds in notes on the back seat. - - - not much today but a lot back then.
The remains are buried under drifts of sand next to the old telegraph station.
Get into a Big 6 and back one goes to speed and adventure.

Although people like to install an ID 19 engine & four speed box into a Light 15slike the
car we owned that we sold to Eric (maroon with cream guards)
I find the 3rd gear quite tall.enough. I cruise at about 45-50 mph ( 72-80 km/h )
but it will sit on 55 ( 88 km/h ) quite happily if one wants to push it a bit.

The Big 6 with it’s 6 cylinder engine purrs along happily at 55 mph but will go a lot faster
when the foot is planted. I tend to drive quite conservatively so as not to bring the
revs too high and that way our cars - - - seem to last forever.

 

 

Aug 27, 2023 - - - Off again to Marong car show - - west of Bendigo.

For a bit of extra entertainment we brought our 1929 Chrysler 65 Tourer
and Michael came in his 1923 Hupmobile - - - plus the dogs.
My other brother Hans brought his 60's Jaguar Mk 10, G4 - - - a very big car !
There seems to be a different lot of people that go here compared to say,
Picnic at Hanging Rock., - - at the Rock there are more young people and also - -
more “muscle cars” and American. At Marong they are a country crowd giving it
a great country feel and a good variety of cars.
The 1949 Slough Lt 15 came along which was nice as my enthusiasm for the
Light 15 has been awakened since swapping our ’23 B2 with Michael’s ’55 model.

 

 

Aug 16, 2023 - - a few pics of Michael's 1923 B2 Citroen in Maldon - - -
"all you can do is laugh !!! "

 

Jun 13, 2023 -- HAMILTON RALLY King’s Birthday long weekend.

Because of covid, this yearly event hasn’t happened for probably 3 years.
Friday morning we left in our 1968 Citroen ID 19B going through Ballarat and heading west to
Hamilton. Because of the rains the country was looking great with many newborn lambs in the
paddocks. My sister lives in red gum country on a small sheep farm out of Hamilton on the
Digby road. It is always a special treat to stay there.
After stopping at the odd second hand place and opportunity (op) shop we reached
Dunkeld near the Grampians to have some lunch. Throughout the trip there were
old cars travelling behind and in front of us heading to the same destination. On reaching Hamilton
we went to the 3 op shops that we know and picked up the odd bargain. A 1970’s
National Panasonic transistor for $15 will go well in a future car display in our 1974 D Special.
Saturday morning the cars gathered at the showgrounds ready for our excursion to the yearly
Casterton Kelpie Muster. Michael travelled from Castlemaine in his 1949 P3 Rover as he wanted
to make the effort to support the Rover Club who were coming with a number of cars.
This Casterton event is always well patronised and took up most of the day.
That evening Janet and I went to a cosy Hamilton restaurant with my sister and friend, Ed.
I pointed out that he forgot to lock the Subaru to which he answered - - - “she’ll be right mate”.
On returning after a scrumptious meal I half expected to see the car - - gone,
but no - - Hamilton must be okay.
Sunday morning we again assembled at the showgrounds and travelled about 200 km visiting the
odd farm with historic woolshed to end up in the small historic town of Harrow. This area is
special to Michael and I as we stayed for our Easter holiday at a school friend’s farm “Babba-Mia”,
milking cows and just “being on the farm” when we were 11 years old in 1962. Harrow is a small town nestled between the hills of the Western District. While we were in the local hall getting lunch we were greeted by Melanie who lives there owning a 1974 Citroen D Special.
Sunday evening Janet and I had a dinner with pea and ham soup with even more relatives.
The nights were cold so it was cosy with the fire going and the dogs locked up in a side shed.
Monday morning was the Hamilton club’s farewell breakfast and after that we visited friends of
my sister’s who own a beautiful historic homestead.
On the way home we again stopped at the odd second hand shop from which one of these we
bought about ninety 78 rpm records at $1 each. As these are quite weighty we ended up with
quite a heavy load on the way home - - with our existing luggage, odds and ends and even
2 terracotta pots with plants which were on the side of the road for free.
The Hamilton Club did a great job making the long weekend a very special one.
We were lucky that a couple in a Citroen D Special were amongst the many cars.
On arrival at the big woolshed they noticed a flat rear tyre so I suggested that we change it
then and there and show the crowd what Citroens are really about. It was great fun.

John, Janet and Michael.

Casterton Kelpie Muster

Helping owner with puncture

Steering part needs attention

At May's place

The Grampians

 

MOTORING HERITAGE DAY TRENTHAM 21st May 2023

Weather was not looking good for Motoring Heritage Day Trentham this Sunday 21st May. We changed our minds on taking the 1913 TH. Schneider so Janet drove the 1950 Big 6 Citroen and me in the 1954 Sunbeam Alpine. We thought we’d better make an effort as with the inclement weather not many might turn up.
Luckily an hour or so after we arrived at the old Trentham Railway Station we were very much proved wrong. Trentham car days seem to be gaining a reputation for having a really good mix of English, European, Australian and USA cars. To see four Bristols - - yes the red one to the right !! - - was a sight to behold. The Rover club brought about 12 Rovers and there were a number of Renaults, Zephyrs and even 2 Studebakers. I liked the green Renault 16. Also a 2CV and a D Special - - - and a big ’39 Packard.
The foggy start made way for a cool but clear day so it ended up a real hoot.

Beechworth “Drive Back in Time” 6th & 7th May 2023.

Four days away in our 1968 Citroen ID19b to a car event in Beechworth called “Drive Back in Time”. We came upon this event when on a trip through this area followed by going through Bright and over Mt. Hotham 3 years back in our 1974 Citroen D Special.

Leaving at 7am this last Friday our DS was eager to go. It was a cool morning with the heater only just able to cope so I made a mental note to pull the small heater radiator out for a flush upon our return. Through Trentham, Woodend, Lancefield, Kilmore & Broadhurst we got onto the freeway to go into cruise mode. None of this fancy cruise control - - just plain fun, flicking the right indicator to let the semis go by and a quick flick of the headlights to let them in again. It’s always nice to get a return flick of their indicator to show their appreciation of some “teamwork” on the highways and bye-ways.

After some time we pulled over to a rest stop and I made a quick check that things were going okay which they were with the engine temperature just nice. I thought about the short bit of stocking I have in the top hose to catch any scale or dirt and again made a mental note to change it when back home.

Euroa was our first stop at our favourite café for morning tea. The old bits of Australiana on the walls and old furniture help to give it a cosy and pleasurable atmosphere. A quick look at the opp shop and we’re away. Always people commenting - - -- “I love your car - - saw one way back in” and so-on.

Our next stop was the historic town of Chiltern again with a very full opp shop. Mosey’d down the street to the 2nd hand store which was a bit pricey but picked up a bundle of 1929 – 1933 RACV Autojournals and a handbook for Michael’s “new” 1987 Rangerover.

Next stop Yackandandah and a look at the 2nd hand places and yes - - - an opp shop. Picked up a small accessory outside auto light which brother Michael will mount on the back of his Series one Landrover.
To cruise through these special Victorian country towns in our DS is joy indeed. One fellow went on to say that a doctor had one in the district when he was used to seeing mainly Holdens, trucks, tractors and the odd vintage car still getting around - - - “it was like a space ship - - way back then - - in Yack”.

At noon on the following Saturday there was an “all you can eat barbecue” for $10 a car load. There was an odd shower but the weather held out pretty well. After the barbi we went in convoy to a carriage museum with passenger, 17 year old Andrew, who’s father brought a Mini Minor up from Melbourne. He was very happy with the smooth ride and the - “very plush leather seats”.
His father owns a business called Minis Plus or something.

Our Motel being maybe 150 yards from town made it perfect for a walk into town and to our favourite pub for dinner.

Sunday morning we arrived at the closed off section of the main street at 7am with cars continuing to roll up soon after, eventually spilling over to the old precinct behind the courthouse. It was here that Ned Kelly was sentenced to later appear in Melbourne because it was felt the troubles in Beechworth would gain too much momentum because of the many Kelly sympathisers there.

The day went well with many cars on show. Our DS was appreciated by many.

Broadhurst LAND ROVER

 

TRENTHAM TRACTOR PULL 23rd Apr 2023

Loaded up the 1929 Chrysler, stopped in at the Daylesford market and off to the Trentham Tractor Pull.
I thought this might be a bit of a fizzer - - - who wants to watch old tractors pull a sled that digs in as it goes along with the water tank moving from the back of the sled - - forward ? Well there certainly were many that did. I don’t think I remember a day that was as social as this in a very “country” way. Every farmer in the district seemed to be there and with the mix of cars on display it turned out to be a lot of fun. Peter and Trevor Brown brought some cars and also a crawler tractor. Their family have farmed in Bullarto since the 1800’s mainly concentrating on different varieties of potatoes along with cattle.

The 1948 Light 15 with the ID motor & box was there and got a lot of attention. Brother Michael brought his 1949 Rover P3.

 

Apr 11, MALDON EASTER PARADE 2023

Easter is always a busy time, with Maldon, not being the exception.
Friday to Sunday had its rainy times but this Monday Parade day was a treat.
Janet and I made our way early to Castlemaine in Janet’s 1974 D Special.
She owns the other cars with me but I say Janet’s D Special as it has always been her
“Special” car. We picked the ’53 Vauxhall Vagabond up at Michael’s placeas I wanted to
give it a bit of work to make sure the brakes are okay - - which they are.
Brother Hans came in his 1935 Humber Snipe and Michael in his 1923 or so Hupmobile.
We didn’t go in the parade but among a good gathering was the Maldon 2CV.
We saw part of the parade over a coffee from the French “Le Sel” café so that was a hoot.

Just to set the record straight. The chock in front of the D Special was an extra precaution because of the "fatal drop" in front of the cars. We don't want to rival what happened to Michael's ID after he sold it - - - & a few more pics.

26th March 2023 ON NUMBER PLATES - - -
it is a pity that it has become a laundering system for black money instead of plates
being around to go on cars. I would be the first to laugh if the bottom dropped out of this
evil (probably a bit strong) trade in the Shannons Auction plate market and people would
be left with a plate that should be on a car worth a few hundred dollars instead of thousands and sometimes millions. But I'm not here to be a stirrer - - - who would listen to a nobody like me.
I try to have plates on my cars that match the era as for me it gives them a soul.
The fact that it costs us about $10,000 a year to register 13 cars is of course ridiculous
but every one is a bit silly in some way. To me a red plate just doesn't look right.
So we all do things in our own way and if someone wants to spend 1.5 million for a number
plate and have it sit in a drawer who am I to question the logic behind that, - - - - - it's all
about making money - - - and I'd better get off and do a bit so I can pay my bills !!!

GUILDFORD GRUMPIES 26th March 2023

Up early Sunday morning and we head off for Castlemaine in our recently acquired ’92 Nissan Patrol. After loading some picnic things into our ’53 Vauxhall Velox Vagabond at brother Michael’s place we head for Guildford to the Grumpies car show.

I realised I had no brakes whatsoever apart from the handbrake but as Guildford was only about 8 or 10 km away - - without any hills of significance I decided I’d have a look at them after arrival. We arrived with cars coming in at a good rate and managed to park under some trees along the fence. Michael was with us in his 1927 English Crossley towing a teardrop caravan. Some spaces were held for Tom’s 1950 Landrover and other brother Hans’s 1936 Vauxhall Wyvern.
It wasn’t long before a Traction Light 15 came in so we hurriedly guided him in close to us - - - very excited indeed. Janet and I had actually had a ride in the rear dicky seat in around 1990 at I think, Hamilton, in New Zealand. Knowing that the Gayndah boys might be interested in this rare car we let them know at the time and they consequently bought it soon after at maybe around $20,000 which was a lot of money at the time. So here it was in Guildford with its new owners who absolutely love the car and are on holidays from Brisbane. Apart from the Traction there was a Citroen 2CV.

There was an Italian ISO Griffy or something and a CX like BMW with 2 BMW badges on the back - - one on each side.

Michael received a prize for best pre 1930 car and Tom with the oily rag prize.

Oh yes, the brake reservoir of the Vagabond was empty so after filling with fluid the brakes worked well. We’ll have to keep an eye on that one. It’s not like me to let that happen !!!

23rd March 2023 Daylesford Market & MORRIS GARAGE
Waking up to pea soup weather we decided not to go to the Lancefield swap meet but the Daylesford market instead. I picked up a kero lamp, some car stands, an old petrol can
and a Jumpo Pogo stick as I thought someone needs to love it.
We then went to Trentham to the Red Beard Bakery.
Yesterday we followed a 1 ½ litre Riley to the Morris Garage in Harcourt where they held a memorial to Bill Mackellar’s life. He and his son Richard built the place up over the years
with many car clubs visiting. Bill had a great passion for old cars and it was a privilege
to know him.
We’re giving the ’68 ID19b a bit of a workout as we’ll take it to the
Beechworth Drive Back in Time car show 6th & 7th May.

CLUNES HISTORIC TRUCK SHOW MARCH 13th 2023

The 1978 Citroen diesel C35 van sits at Michael’s place anticipating the drive to the Clunes Historic Truck show. Of late it has been the carrier of an organ, going to recitals around the Bendigo area. After doing about 15 heavy loads from Brisbane to Victoria some years back it did the odd stint to the Daylesford Market. So on Sunday it drew the short straw and Michael took the Series 3 Landrover instead. Would there be a Citroen there at all we thought. Meanwhile we had packed the 1929 Chrysler 65 the day before so heading off on Sunday morning we were away. First we stopped into the Daylesford market and then headed Ballarat way to turn right at the Blampied pub. This is close to the Fraser’s farm where the focus has been on the “PISS OFF AUSNET “campaign. I think they are making inroads but the waiting game is not up yet.
Motoring towards Smeaton through beautiful countryside with the odd mullock heaps of past gold mines we’re getting closer. Michael rang on the mobile to say he’d saved us a spot so all was well.
On arrival it was already busy with trucks, cars and engines finding there places.
We set up our display to the wafting sound of 78 records from our wind up HMV gramophone.
Often we receive congratulatory comments for our displays but one received from a founding member of the Ferals Car Club based around Newstead is high praise indeed. I have always admired them for displaying cars that look like they are “of the time” rather than being “tarted up to the nines”. It turned out that they had a 1935 bus displayed that has a 1953 caravan conversion which was all but rotting in the backwoods of Castlemaine. They saved it sympathetically so here it was towing a small caravan behind. Strolling back through the wonderful sites we spotted Eric and Jane’s 1948 Citroen ID19. This is the ex John Wilkinson car that we owned for a number of years in Brisbane - - - then bringing it down here. Eric has done a lot of work, doing the engine and gearbox and tweaking things done in the conversion that - - “just weren’t right, so now she hums along like a Swiss watch.

We have been to this event in past years with the Big 6 and the ’68 ID19b with Michael bringing the odd early ID so I don’t think this event has been without a Citroen to represent this great marque in the time we have had anything to do with it.

KINGSTON SWAP Sat. 25th Feb. 2023

An idyllic morning at the Kingston Swap with the old grandstand looking on.
Old cars could come in as a small display with the numbers growing as the morning wore on. This made it easy to unload the few bargains we were about to find.
The Big 6 cruised beautifully as usual. There are those who would drive this car faster than we do but we are happy at between 70 to 80 km/h with the engine purring happily up hill and down dale. It really is a magnificent motor car. In the photo with the lights on one can notice the small lit up indicator buttons on top of the parking lights.
The car in the front of the display line-up is a post war Nash.

 

Feb, 2023 - - MOTORFEST DAYESFORD

It has been a busy time of year and Motorfest has come around again..

Since it started only a few years ago the organisers were keen for us to take some cars
as it assured them that there would be something different. With the many cars that
turned up our presence didn’t seem as pivotal but they made a good display all the same.
Gurus like Rod Hadfield were there guiding the young to what is possible in
Hot Rod art, design and mechanics.

Tom was there with the Chev Blitz and a thumping single cylinder Bulldog tractor.
A large Merlin Aircraft engine was there mounted on a tractor with propeller blades
cut to about half length with its roar being heard far away.

We ferried our eight cars over the day before, covering some for protection against
the heavy dew.Our 1913 TH. Schneider very seldom has a hiccup but when
ascending a steep hill near the venue it started to backfire violently. Stopping halfway
up the hill while waving tourist traffic by I envisaged a heavy tow rope behind
our early 90’s Nissan Patrol.The engine calmed down as I braced myself to give it
another go. By some miracle it came good as if maybe a petrol blockage had been
cleared. It turned out later - - - with a crowd watching - - - that it was one of my
“new old stock” spark plugs that was literally falling apart. I looked under the seat
for a replacement plug to no avail but was pleased to find a spare set under the seat
of the 1923 B2 Citroen. Luckily these are of the same type and even set at the
same 18 thou as both engines have a magneto rather than coil ignition.

Our 1974 D Special, the 1950 Big Six and the 1923 B2 Citroen attracted a
lot of attention along with the other cars we had on show. Cranking the Ford T,
starting the TH. Schneider and seeing the DS rise always draws a crowd.

Brother Michael brought his lemon coloured 1923 Hupmobile and the other cars we
brought were the now happy 1913 TH. Schneider, 1918 T Model Charabanc,
1929 Chrysler Tourer, 1949 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster and the 1953 Sunbeam Alpine.

We sometimes wonder why we do this but on the day there are always surprises with
the people we meet and chat to. A couple from Shropshire, Wales, were excited to
see the TH. Schneider. We enquired where they now live, thinking they had made the
move to sunny Australia - - - but no, that is there home. They went on to say that they
have attended seven London to Brighton veteran rallies in their 1904 Scottish Argyll.
We were envious indeed.
I have a soft spot for Chryslers of which there was a magnificent one as in the pic.

 

Feb 12, 2023 - - PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK

Sunday, and we’re off to Picnic at Hanging Rock in our 1929 Chrysler 65 tourer.The cool morning air was welcome as the previous few days had been quite warm. This show is probably the biggest in the year for cars over 25 years spread through different parts of bushy clearings, the odd oval and parts around the race track - - - all being looked down upon by - - - “The Rock”.

Arrival in this particular car is always a bit nervy as the old honeycomb radiator is on the edge of being a bit too warm. Michael arrived in his 1923 Hupmobile so we could go in together with already a throng of people and cars at this early time of 7.45am. It is 1st in 1st serve with cars being placed as they come in so there can be a Rolls Royce parked next to a Goggomobile or a hotted up Mustang.

We set up our chairs and picnic things as the people and cars unfolded around us.
This is not the sandwiches with the crusts cut off with tea or coffee with croissants like British and European Day - - - “a beef burger and chips, thankyou” with maybe a beer or coffee and some fairy floss for the kids. Yes, this is the real deal - - - Australian style.
GT Falcons, Holdens from the FX, FJ, FE and FC to the later Monaros, Valiant Chargers and so-on. After an early cup of tea and a biscuit we venture into the crowd.
Soon we find a red D Special that previously lived in Brisbane having been looked after by the iconic DS Motors. This car now lives in Romsey not far away. A very nice Jag XK150 and also a Mk 5 and Mark 7 so yes, although few, there were British and European cars around. Eventually we came across a lovely 2CV and further on an exquisite metallic green 1974 DS23 5 speed, probably the one Trentham way. So to count three Citroens out of a few thousand cars is better than none.

This is where the young generation are and good on them. The passion is high and as Barry Humphries once said about the footy, “it keeps them out of mischief ”.

After two hours or so we decide to commune with “nacher” and climb the rock while the Chrysler and Hupmobile attract a lot of attention from a generation who have never seen these old cars on the streets like we did in the late 50’s and 60’s - - way back when.

A great Day, John

Sat. Feb 11th 2023 - Citroens in the Castlemaine Goldfields
& previous owner of our Perth DS

Hearing that Citroens were coming to Castlemaine we made contact and agreed to take part in a run around the area. Our 1968 ID19b had a kind of rattle last time I drove it so in the previous week I went down to Michael’s in Castlemaine where the car has been living of late. I got it out and discovered that the flange ring bolts where the exhaust pipe connects to the manifold were loose. One of these bolts was clattering against the starter motor heat shield. I was thinking that maybe, as a Z Grade Citroen Mechanic, I never tightened these down properly when I installed the new starter motor not long ago. One usually puts it together without tightening until all the manifold bolts are tightened and everything is in the right place. Anyway, needless to say the car was now nice and quiet and ready for the Saturday outing.
As we arrived at around 7.30 AM a green 2CV drove in to the cosy Big 4 Caravan Park next to the Botanical Gardens. As we strolled through we spotted some 2CVs and a lovely CX. Also a great little van that has made its way from England and now lives in Maldon. Off we went for a 2 or 3 hour run stopping at historic gold mines all but hidden in the dry bush. Eric and Jane from Newlyn way also joined in driving there 1948 or so Slough Light 15 Traction. We were pleased that we made the effort as this was a very well organized run.
Something interesting that came up was when Robert, who came in a wonderful DS said, “Isn’t this the Frank De Meir car from Melbourne”.
Our 1968 ID19b had a 1967 front grafted on long ago. I had done this to two 1968 Pallas cars, one hydraulique that went to New Zealand and the other to the Goddess of 67 movie. Knowing the amount of work involved we bid for this car on E bay and got it for about $8,000. It was obvious that a lot of love went into this car with lots of Pallas gear being added. The Perth to Brisbane road trip was probably the best one we ever had except maybe the same route in the 1964 DS Cabriolet a few years before. We never knew who did all this work on the car so part of the puzzle has been solved. Minutes later Ted walked by and said the same thing. Isn’t this the Frank - - - - car.
It was a fun few hours with a good crowd so we’ll have to do it again - - - some time.

Feb 8, 2023 - - Wings & Wheels Bacchus Marsh

We leave Sunday, the early morning crisp air being happily received by Michael’s
1962 Slough Safari and our 1950 Big 6 Traction. Not having been to the Bacchus Marsch
Wings & Wheels we were eager for this adventure. On arrival around 7.30 the cars of over
25 years were starting to trickle in. We set up our picnic things and greeted people in what
was a jolly atmosphere. The day went well with a lot happening around us.
Of particular interest to me were the early aeroplanes, one called, I think, a Trojan with
Navy written on the side. Aero acrobatics went on through the day while the crowd
enjoyed walking through rows of a great mix of cars - - - including a
stainless De Lorean. Michael found a Morris Oxford Woodie of which there are only
about 5 on the road in Australia - - - like his.
Also there were a few 50’s Vanguards, the oldest being the same as one owned by the
family of a school chum of ours back in the early 1960’s when we lived in Geelong.
The Vanguard with the bonnet up in the pic has the diesel engine. These Vanguards
of course have very much the same engine as the Grey Fergie tractors of the
same era - - good, tough, reliable cars.
Our good friend Peter Brown from Bullarto enjoyed the day with us.

Just about when we were out of town the Safari blew a tyre which was quickly remedied
with the “quick change” centre bolt system of these early cars. Michael tweaked the
bleed bolt a little on the regulator just to make sure the car was going up to high.

 

Jan 1, 2023 - It’s been a busy Christmas New Year period starting with the job of
transporting Santa at Jubilee Lake Caravan Park at Daylesford.
Then the New Years eve Parade - - - again in the 1913 T.H. Schneider. It is important to
keep these local events going and it was very much appreciated by the big turn out - to watch.
The push horn on the Schneider certainly brings the many kids to attention as they watch
the great elephant like car make its way down the main street in Daylesford in between
the other displays both mechanical and on foot.
The day before was spent getting cars ready. I dropped in to see Peter Brown on his
farm at Bullarto. He wanted to get 3 cars in the parade including a little MG Sprite and a
1925 Morris Cowley. I helped with charging batteries and tidying up. Brother Michael,
who has recently bought an early 50’s Morris Oxford woody agreed to drive
Peter’s black Oxford sedan to help get to know these cars. I was impressed with the
rack & pinion steering similar to the Traction and the torsion bar front suspension.
Through the day I was thinking that I wasn’t spending time on our Big 6 Traction for
New Years Day as it had been missing. I hadn’t driven the car since doing the rear
brakes and had forgotten there was a miss. The ’53 Sunbeam Alpine was waiting in the
wings so I thought it best to stay calm and help Peter as he’s not getting any younger.
Anyway I had an hour or so left on the Saturday. I expected the trouble was with the
points so I gave them a quick clean and found them perfect at about 15thou. I have been
running 91 fuel for a while as contrary to what I would think, the 91 tends not to foul the plugs.
I pulled the plugs out and yes, they were pretty sooty. They have lasted many months so
maybe the 91 alternative has helped. I quickly cleaned them and put them in the boot.
These were the NGK 6HS. I had brand new NGK 4HS, being a hotter plug so I
decided to put these in. I don’t really know what can happen if one puts a - - too hot plug in.
I kind of know that a hotter plug can stop sooting up but other than that I will see
what happens. So once I did this the Big 6 purred like a kitten.

Yesterday, New Years Day was off to Muckleford - - - loaded up in the Big 6.

As with the years gone by it was pretty hot - - - that dry heat which I prefer to the high humidity heat experienced for so many years in the Brisbane summers.

We went via Castlemaine to pick up the ’53 Vauxhall Vagabond at brother Michael’s place.
From there, Janet drove the Big 6 & Michael the 1927 Crossley & me in the Vagabond.

Arriving at about 9.30 we set up our picnic paraphanalia ready to enjoy the day.
Janet filled the odd Hessian bag with dry twigs for winter fires and I arranged some
pictures of Peter Dammon racing his big 6 at Bathurst and Ballarat back in the early 50’s
. John Emry arrived later and I was glad I did the display as he knew Peter Dammon
and has his helmet and other things on display with the Ballarat club. I just acquired
the original numbers of Peter Dammon’s car - - RF-946. The same kind of thing happened
at Daylesford Motorfest when Norm Beechey turned up reminiscing of times gone by.

One of the people from the Ballarat Club ran out of fuel in Newstead driving a restored 1938 Oldsmobile. I had a can of petrol that his mate could rescue him with. Later on I hopped into this wonderful car and he said - - take her for a drive - - - maybe as a thankyou for the rescue beforehand. Whatever the motive for this “reckless” invite I called out to Janet - - soon
speeding through the Victorian countryside in this wonderful example of an American family car.

As always there were some very exotic cars on display on this very Australian picnic day.

Nov 21, 2022

This last Saturday & Sunday we took some cars to the yearly Antique Fair
at Victoria Park, Daylesford where they included a bit of a car show. They were the 1913 T.H.Schneider, 1918 T Model,1923 B2 Citroen, 1929 Chrysler,
1948 Armstrong Siddeley, 1950 Citroen Big 6 & Janet’s 1974 Citroen D Special.

Things went well till about 2pm when there were patches of rain and a bit later it pretty much bucketed down. We covered most cars with tarps to come back on the Sunday when many cars from the Melbourne Benzine Club and also from Trentham were to come.
Early Sunday morning Janet & I were at the Maldon Swap at about 6.50 am. We came in our “modern” 1992 Nissan Patrol as the D Special was still loaded from the Fair Debacle. As the Patrol is 30 years old we felt cheeky enough to park in the collectable car section as it makes it very handy being close to the stall holders. We picked up a few “bargains” and back to Daylesford to brave another day at the Antique fair. Maldon was pretty sunny but coming up to Daylesford we dreaded another day like the previous Saturday. The Gods were looking down on us as the day panned out pretty well. There were some McLaren race cars that were unloaded from a low loader and a great selection of cars. We helped get a Porsche going as the plugs seemed to be sooted up. I kind of thought that the 2 on the right side were more sooted which might have meant that the RH carby might have been running rich. I have been reading up on Volkswagens recently and have been thinking that I might have missed out on a bit of fun not having one - - - apart from one I bought with a girlfriend in about 1973 for about $400 and as we soon after split the Volkswagen went away with her. Anyway this little Porsche seemed really nice.

What also turned up was a pristine gold 1971 DS Pallas Hydraulique.
He is from Mt Macedon and I venture to say we’ll see him again.
It might be the car that sold on Shannons some time ago - - drool - - drool.
There might have been around 100 cars overall. Brother
Michael brought his 1948 Rover on the Saturday and his later Rover P6B on the Sunday.

I again didn’t get around to taking many pics as I was so busy starting the
different cars in front of a very enthusiastic crowd.

We had the Patrol as a standby tow car but the T.H. Scneider & the Model T got a
bit of help from an army Blitz as the grass we were parked on was pretty wet.

What a weekend - - John

PS :- Part of this week will be spent drying out cars & paraphenalia.

Nov 17, 2022 was Trentham Show & Shine. The weather report was not
optimistic by any means but as fellow car enthusiast, Peter Brown at Bullarto, says,
“if something is scheduled to be on - - rain or shine - - we go !! “.
So first to the Daylesford Market where I picked up a lovely old leather briefcase for $10
which I have doused with neatsfoot oil and then with a load of 1970’s era picnic
paraphenalia we headed off in our 1974 D Special. With the rear brakes not weeping
and all my cleaning under the rear guards it feels really nice as we glide along.
I didn’t expect much of a turnout but even coming early the cars were coming in at
a steady rate. The 1948 Light 15 is the one with the ID Engine - - that just purrs along.
There was a good sprinkling of cars and with no rain it ended up a great day.

PS :- We took the Big 6 out again on a brighter day - - today.
The countryside is so beautiful this time of year.

Oct 10, 2022

Yesterday The Trentham Club was doing a Cars & Coffee at the old Clydesdale School near Newstead. Loading up picnic paraphanalia into the 1950 Big 6 we were off - - first stopping at the Daylesford Market for any treasures. Some unopened Mobil cans of oil and a wooden box that might find its way onto the running board of one of the vintage cars if it will fit !!! ?? Also a pair of windscreen wiper inserts still in the wrapper that might fit the chrome wipers on the Safari.

Driving through the countryside in spring is a joy. Lush green grass after all the rain,
newborn lambs and the countryside just looking great.

We had been to an open garden in the D Special 2 weeks before just round the corner
from our destination. The garden surrounded a beautiful stone house with
outbuildings on the edge of a bit of a cliff with a winding stream below.

We arrived to see a few parked cars and quickly set up a few chairs etc for a picnic.
The old school building was an absolute gem being made of stone - - - being surrounded
by farming country. Inside the fenced area were old fashioned flowers poking there
way up through the grass on each side of old walking paths. These old school buildings
along with the many country halls in Australia are treasures not to be taken for granted.
Old photos on the walls including, most times, one of Queen Elizabeth.
Michael soon arrived from Castlemaine in hi 1962 or so Slough built Safari.

Friends arrived in a Series 3 short wheel base Landrover with their 2 year old border
Collie on board. Michael acquired an 8 month old border collie recently so after getting
to know each other they raced around at full speed stopping to jump into a
waterhole intermittently to cool off - - and have a drink.

After leaving here we made our way to Dean where sheep dog trials were taking place all day. There was a huge steam tractor and other machinery on display with a man from Ballarat with a great collection of old roadside and railway lamps. The two dogs were intrigued at the goings on.

It was a joy to be in convoy with Michael’s Safari. These early long stroke models seem
far superior in the way that they cruise so effortlessly at high speed. The Big 6 forges
up and down hill without even trying.

PS :- Someone has just contacted Michael saying he owned Michael's Safari many years ago.

Here with the
RF-946 Peter Damman plates

Peter Damman raced a Big 6 in the early 50's

 

Aug 29, 2022 - A good day at Marong car show - - west of Bendigo.

Peter was there from Toolern Vale in his 1968 DS Hydraulique which “is going beautifully”.
Our 1968 DS took us to Castlemaine where “us brothers” picked up the ’54 Vagabond, ’48 Sunbeam Talbot and ’35 Humber Snipe. A friend from Lancefield came in a 30’s Riley Kestrel.

Our friend Peter Brown from Bullarto came - - - what fun !!!

AUG. 27th 2022 - - Cars in Castlemaine

A prelude to the Marong Car show tomorrow there was one today in Castlemaine.
Camperdown and Bendigo clubs came together to stay overnight for the big show tomorrow.
Not to be outdone Castlemaine had some decent cars to add to make it a very nice day.
Brother Michael brought his 1948 Sunbeam Talbot and 1923 Hupmobile.
We brought the ’53 Vauxhall Vagabond, our ’54 Sunbeam Alpine and the 1968 Safari.

AUG. 24th 2022 - -

After decades of owning only old cars the D Special's head was compromised after a tough drive over Mt Hotham. We were wanting to take a trip this year to the Blue Mountains.

A friend had indicated that he might be selling a 1992 TD42 Diesel Nissan Patrol that he had put a lot of work into. I told my son who has one of these that he might want a good replacement for around $6,000. When the time came he decided against it and I mentioned to Janet that maybe it wouldn’t be so silly for us to buy it.
All the door locks and electric windows had been changed to manual so as it had very minimal electronics I thought it would be a great long distance vehicle for us.
After buying it for $5,000 we went for a quick trip to the Blue Mountains.

So this is the first time that we drove a vehicle that was made after 1974. We figure we will preserve our "modern" Patrol for only long holiday trips and continue driving our old “fleet” for everyday driving. We find it essential to drive them all “quite regularly” as otherwise these cars would fall into disrepair. The demand to keep them up there can be overwhelming at times but I just say to myself that - - - "this is what we do".

Gundagai

Carcoar

AUG. 22nd 2022

Michael, Janet and I were in Castlemaine with some cars - - early.
Hotroders come every 3rd Sunday but only one turned up - - forgot to take a pic.

Sunday 15th May 2022 - - National Motoring Heritage day at Trentham - -
being one of three locations across Victoria to celebrate the day.

Michael wanted to take his 1927 Crossley with teardrop camper behind plus
his P6 Rover as the Rover club were coming with some cars.
Our French 1913 T.H. Schneider didn’t want to start although I drove it in the previous
week so we started up the ’29 Chrysler and off we went for our 1st early trip with
Janet following in the ‘68 Safari. After dropping off the Crossley and the Chrysler
we all returned in the Safari. Quickly swapping spark plugs in the T.H. Schneider
we were off again with Michael in the Rover.It turned out to be a great day.
Trentham is often cool around this time so people were well rugged up.
There was an interesting mix of cars with even a little Lancia Ardea who nimbly
passed us on the road in our great lumbering T.H. Schneider - slowly going up one of
the many hills.It was very exciting to see a ’48 Traction and not one but three DS Citroens.

BEECHWORTH DRIVE BACK IN TIME - - May 2022

Up early Friday 29th April Janet and I headed off in our 1968 Citroen “DS” to Beechworth to mingle with the Old Cranks Car Club who were hosting a “Drive Back in Time”.
Arriving at around noon after stopping for a cuppa at Euroa we drove on to Yackandandah to have a look around and have a pie. Coming into Beechworth we met up with brother Michael who had come from Castlemaine in his Rover P6 towing an early 1950’s teardrop caravan. We Checked into our Motel and all had dinner at one of the local pubs. Michael stayed the night in his teardrop at a fellow Rover friend who was to park close to us on the Sunday “Show & Shine”.
Saturday morning cars parked next to the old railway station and we went for a jaunt to
a member’s shed who had some very impressive cars and bikes.
Sunday morning we made our way to the old police precinct which by about 11 was full
of a good variety of cars. The Antique car club of Albury Wodonga came with about
8 vintage cars including a wonderful Jaguar XK150.
In the afternoon we visited the local Burke Museum and another pub meal that night.
A garage in Beechworth which is closed has 2 RACV Holdens and a pretty good tilt-tray.

The next day we stopped in Bonnie Doon to see the holiday house from "The Castle".

TRENTHAM CARS & COFFEE - - Apr 10, 2022

Went to Trentham Cars & Coffee today in the 1968 Safari. Good to see our ex Light 15
with the ID motor and box. Eric has put many hours on the mechanicals and it even
has a new paint job on the guards. Michael came in his 1927 Crossley

TRENTHAM TRACTOR PULL - - Mar 28, 2022

Yesterday we took the 1949 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster on its first proper run
after I sorted many things out over the last 3 months.The build is roughly the same time
as the Big 6 so it is interesting to experience the handling capabilities of these different cars.
Needless to say the Big 6 has it all over the Siddeley in pretty much every way.
Maintenance would have been more difficult however as specialist tools would have
been needed. The pre selector on the Siddeley is a bit quirky but I’m getting used to it.
Yesterday, 27th March there was a Tractor Pull + car show at Trentham Railway Station.
We took the Siddeley and Michael in his 1923 Hupmobile.

MAR, 2022. - - Mini road trip to Port Fairy.

It has been some time since going on a bit of a road trip so off we went last Wednesday to Queenscliffe via Geelong where we went to the vicinity of the old Ford factory to a vintage concern at the old Federal mill. Always fun to look for old treasures and to top up early electrical fittings that we still sell on the net.
Growing up as a kid in Geelong has always made the trip back quite special. Onto Barwon Heads to Annie’s for lunch and to Queenscliffe via Point Lonsdale. We stayed the night at the Vue Grand.
Up early on Thursday to wind our way along the Great Ocean Road through Lorne and breakfast at the General Store in Wye River. The ID19b goes very well along the “very picturesque scenery”. For one day it is quite a sizeable mileage to eventually arrive around two in Port Fairy where we stay the second night at the Merri Jig Inn - - - apparently the oldest inn in Victoria. A pub meal at night in a great little town. The next day is homeward bound with us being very impressed by the luxury comfort of the 1968 “DS”.

FEB 19th, 2022. - - Yarraglen British & European Day
Our 1954 Sunbeam Alpine doesn’t have sunvisors so leaving before dawn at quarter to five on Sunday morning helped to avoid driving directly East into the sun. Michael was following in his Sunbeam Talbot. As in the Alpine rallies in the early 50’s these cars are at home in mountainous country although quite arduous as Stirling Moss and Sheilla Vandam would have experienced. Younger brother, Hans, followed an or so later in his manificent 1935 Humber Snipe.
We arrived about 7.30 and were amongst the first to be let in.

The MG Car Club run this event and are to be applauded for their attention to detail.
Jaguars were there with the different E Type variations to the great Mark 10.
Others makes were there like Mercs, Daimlers, Rileys, Rovers etcaxcepting
Armstrong Siddeley, one of which we purchased recently. So a great day was had by all.
It was good to peruse such awonderful collection of cars from Britain and Europe

FEB 19th, 2022. - -
The 1956 Big 15 is finally up and running - - after about 2 years. Water was getting into
the oil so a complete refurbish has been done by Alexis, our French friend. It is probably
the only big job that we talked him into doing but he has been very thorough sourcing
new pistons, liners and heaps of parts from his contacts overseas. The car is running
smoothly so we’ll be careful running it in. The inside and outside is VERY original.
Many would say - - “when are ye gonna do er up mate” but no, she must stay as she is.

A few pics of the Big 15 in the company of the Vagabond, Armstrong Siddeley.
Also a pic of the C35 going under cover.

PS :- I am taking the gearbox out as the clutch has
not worked properly since doing the enginejob ( Nov 2024)

Michael's done a bit of a swap deal for
a 1954 Morris Oxford Traveller Nov. 2022

HANGING ROCK - - Feb 18, 2022

We went to Hanging Rock car day. The Model T was going beautifully till there was
a loud bang and the engine died. It looks like one of the magnets from the flywheel
that makes up the “magneto / alternator” came adrift. The headlights did some flickering
and then went off which would help to indicate this. I probably could have restarted
the engine on “Battery” but with a magnet dislodged near the flywheel this might not
be a good idea. - - - engine out job.

So luckily Peter who was coming in his Morris Cowley ute hadn’t yet left home so he picked us up where we had broken down close by and took us back home.

As Peter stopped in his year 2000 or so Falcon the horn was blowing loudly which at6.30am
isn’t a good look. I noticed him bashing the steering column with gusto and then it stopped.
He said he’d better “unhook the horn sometime and yes - - the car is getting a bit old”.

A quick re pack into the 1950 Big 6 meeting Michael in the ’23 Hupmobile at the
freeway and Peter was waiting at the entrance of “The Rock” in amongst the many
Holdens, Valiants and whatever. There was only one other Citroen there but the
Renault Club had a few cars which was great.

Peter, at 85 is doing up a little Sprite. I laughed when he bought the beat up car,
saying that most “Old Codgers” are selling their sports cars while he was buying one.

Although it would have been nice to see a few more Pommy and European cars it was
still a great day. The Big 6 DID get a bit of attention but if I had 2 bob for every
person that loved the Datsun 250, or was it 260Z next door - - I would be a rich man
Peter won a prize for oldest driver in his built up Morris Cowley ute.

Nevermind, we’re off to Yarraglen this Sunday in our ’54 Sunbeam Alpine to get a
British hit - - and European, which will be - - “oh so proper - - and distinguished”.

PS :- We picked up the Model T at the end of the Day.
I am putting the Model T back together 17th Nov. 2024. A bit of metal went into
the engine at one time which seems to have broken a tooth on one of the planetary gears.
It seems on that fateful day that the tooth was picked up and broke another tooth when
it got jammed. one of the ignition coils was damaged when this happened so car stopped.
I later ran the car on battery a few times (with the teeth sitting down below).

-Number plate ;- EX-041

On the 27th March 9- 2022 Janet and I decided to take our 1949 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster on its first proper run after sorting out many things over the last 4 months. This was the Tractor Pull and car show at Trentham Railway Station. Brother Michael came in his 1923 Hupmobile and other friends from Daylesford came in a war time Chev Blitz and a 1928 Chev tow truck. There were a varied lot of cars so it turned out to be a very good day. Our car drew a lot of interest from the passers by of whom some recounted stories of being involved with these cars in the past. There are still little things to sort out but generally the car is going well and is a joy to drive. Not having driven
a car with pre-selector I have found it a bit quirky at first but am quickly getting used to it.

These 2 photos at Glenlyon Store Mar.2022

Jan 24th, 2022. - - We went to a lesser known Bendigo Swap with a show & shine
in the 1968 Safari. It looked a treat amongst a large variety of cars.

The ’49 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster is getting closer to a roadworthy. On the first drive
I familiarised myself with the quirky pre-selector way of changing gears - - -
I put the selector in first and when I depress and let go of the “clutch” pedal ( which it isn’t )
the car will then engage. Driving along in 1st, I select 2nd and it will only engage to 2nd when working the pedal again. Quite simple really. These boxes were preferred in the Alpine
Rallies as it was claimed that some milli seconds were saved with each gear change.
So as I was driving it brought back to me the times changing gears in a DS Hydraulique
which ofcourse doesn’t need the pedal to change so I conclude that both these systems
were good and reliable. The Armstrong Siddeley, it seems, doesn’t have a clutch
but has bands while the DS has the conventional clutch.

Jan 10th, 2022. Warrnanbool Lake Pertobe car show.

The 2nd weekend in January again brings the car show to Lake Pertobe in Warrnambool.
Caught up with Bob who was on his way to deliver some Cit parts to Tassy and Roger
who lives not far away. Michael brought his Humber as he had left the tandem at Roger's with a Renault scenic on board for Hans which he'll take home.
It was nice that the French flag that Janet made attracted the odd French family to
the Citroens - - - lots of nostalgia - -sitting in the back dicky seat - -
and always getting car sick - - as a kid - - in France.
As I was juggling cars late Saturday the Big 6 again broke down. Rather than muck
about on the side of the road I walked home and we towed it back with the Safari.

Up early Sunday morning and on the road at 4.40am & 200 yards away in our '68 Safari
the headlights failed. Back home to try to source the fault and after half an hour
decided to leave with the parkers on as dawn was breaking. I was feeling a bit
despondent as lately everything is deciding to break down.

Anyway the 3 hour trip to Warrnambool went splendidly and a great day was had.
I’ll look at the Big 6 first as I think it will be the condensor that I had mounted next to
the coil as a spare and hooked up recently. It turned out afterwards that one of the
bolts holding the points was going into a partly stripped thread so I glued a nut at
the back and the Big Six hasn't missed a beat since.

Jan 1st, 2022 Muckleford School Annual Picnic
Janet and I brought the Big 6 & Vagabond. on New Years day. Temperatures were
up so some people piked out. Michael brought his early 50's Sunbeam Talbot.
Hans in his 1934 Humber Snipe
There were some decent cars. It is a “Bring a Plate” - - - great fun.

Peter Brown with his Morris Cowleys

Some pics of a display that some of the locals put on at
the first Daylesford Collectables Fair Nov. 22 - 2021.

An MGTF, wartime blitz, - - our '23 Citroen B2 and 1913 TH Schneider,
1950 Big 6 ---- '68 Safari and '68 DS & Michael's '27 Crossley
and an A50 ute and 2 vintage Morris Cowleys, '29 Chrysler & '48 Bentley

Oct 24, 2021 - - Out again on a run - - Trentham to Malmsbury.
Michael in the Peter Boyle Light15 and our Big 6.
The 1959 Lincoln is a car to be reckoned with.

Michael beside the 1935 Humber Snipe to be
Hans's - - on original plates
with our Citroen C35 behind full of parts.

1956 Humber Hawk with 3 rabbits under
the bonnet that had to be prodded - out.
Comes with the Laycock-de-normanville
overdrive as in the Talbots & Alpines - -
this car being the same as the blue one we just sold.

John & Janet's new acquisition
1949 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster - -
- - is this jumping in at the deep end ??

And a 1948 SUNBEAM TALBOT - - -

that had been stored in a closed up sheep
shed for 20 years.
The rabbits kept burowing under the car causing it
to sink to the front bumper bar and half way
up the wheels.

Michael had to "dig it out".

I suppose this could be called "a barn find".

As it was in 1999

Loading it on the tandem trailer we couldn't
coax a rabbit from under the bonnet so it
had a ride home to Castlemaine

Similar Sunbeam Talbots along with the
Alpines were raced by Stirling Moss &
Sheila Van Damm in the early 1950's.

A car run with the '55 Lt15 & '68 DS - - 22-3-2022

We went along with some friends through the bush.
Two Landrovers and 17 odd Austin Champs. It was pretty wet. October 14th 2022

Wouldn't want to fall down this mine shaft !!

Dec. 2021. Lake Jubilee gathering with Ken checking out Peter Brown's
tow truck plus Peter giving Santa a lift in T Model at Christmas.

Nov. - 2021 Will the Big 6 go again ?? - - Alexis doing up the engine.
& pic of Dale's late 30's La Salle and 1946 Packard Clipper that I wanted to buy !!

October , 2021

A few drives here and there as lockdown is lifted in regional Victoria - - -
off to Clunes past an old goldmine, Ballarat and Harcourt with
Michael's '24 Hupmobile. Masks off and away again.
And going for a coffee with Janet in Ballarat.

Sep 19, 2021

COVID LOCKDOWNS IN MELBOURNE

Again we are lucky - - - unlike Melbourne who are still having a hard time.
The Castlemaine Club were coming Daylesford way
to Mt Franklin so we got some locals in earlier cars to join in..
We took the ’29 Chrysler and Peter Brown with extra driver came with the
2 Morris Cowleys of which the little 2 seater is the English version of
Michael’s yellow French 1923 Citroen B2 roadster..
Michael, as the rest of us, again proved that these early cars can be driven on the road
with a great deal of enjoyment. The distance from Castlemaine was quite a feat
for Michael as the little beauty cruised at 65-70 km/hr.
Trevor's 1928 Packard was there and of course the Chev Blitz and Ken's ’29 Chev sedan
so the B2 was in good company. As we had time we went to Maldon for a cuppa.
All our best to our friends in Melbourne doing it tough with covid.
As we speak, Michael is on his way across Victoria in his trusty ’61 Slough Safari
to Hamilton so he has very much kept the Citroen flag flying today.

I borrowed an idea from the DS hydraulic tank to check the level of petrol in the
Stewart vacuum tank in the Chrysler - - which, incidentally, works very well.

John, Janet and Michael.

Brothers Michael and Hans had a lot of parts to pick up along with a 1939 Vauxhall tourer
from Gippsland so they decided to take the Citroen 1978 C35 Van.
Seeing the pictures reminded me of the many trips we did taking our life’s possessions the
2400 mile return journey from Brisbane to Victoria and back.
This is another of the vehicles that has done more than its fair share of work
and it just keeps going - - on - - and on.

The previous owner of the Vauxhall had made up an A frame so that the car could be towed.
Michael had to be convinced but yes - - it cruised - - on - -behind.

Apr 2021 we had a fun day at Lake Jubilee, Daylesford. Another pic - Peter Brown,
with Janet & me doing Christmas 2021 in our TH Schneider & Peter's Model T firetruck

Oct 13, 2021 - - We were going to take the Big 6 to a small run from
Trentham to Lyonville but took the Vagabond instead as the Big Six was missing slightly.
On Monday we took the Big 6 to Allens Carbies at Shellbourne near Bendigo.We picked the
car up today and after putting in a new coil and fiddling with the twin throat carby thecar is running
like a swiss watch. Mark is very thorough and really knows what he is doing & cheap. The carby was
done up with someone at Reservoir some time ago but I never knew whether it was - - just right.
Also a pic of our 1968 ID21F Safari at the old Maldon Motor Museum.

Oct 17, 2021 - - Followed Michael in his Rover P6 to see the Brett Whitely
exhibition in Bendigo. (We all know the relationship between the DS and the P6).

Oct 17, 2021 - - An outing around Castlemaine, Maldon area.
The Big 6 runs well amongst some mainly English company.

Sep 15, 2021
Regional Victoria is out of lockdown at the moment so a jaunt here and there in the
'68 Safari and ID19b. They're both going well after the work done recently.
One pic showing the guards off as I cleaned, painted and tweaked some wiring.
Behind the Peugeot of "Le Sel" cafe is a horse and cart in Maldon.

Oh yes, Peter from Bullarto has cobbled up a '28 Chev tow truck so
if anyone breaks down in the Goldfields area you know who to call.

On the Newell highway

Truck stop Boggabilla ( The boggaburga nearly wiped me out )

Turned out when reaching Daylesford that Michael and I had to rescue his damaged trailer load that he had to abandon, plus patch up his upturned Landrover near Narrabri up the highway 1100 km and back. Transferred load into C35 and scrapped written off trailer. Pitty the Landrover didn't have the Citroen engineering or it might not have got out of control after tyre blowout. But still - - we must love our Landrovers.

This 1978 C35 turns out to be a mighty workhorse. It is only one of two in Australia. The other is a utiluty type- - not van. In the 2 months, Dec - Jan. we travelled 6000 km.
New UPPER SUSPENSION ARMS have now been fitted in the front & new front discs & pads later.

Janet & I bought the Packard in January 2021.
Michael was on holiday at Port Elliot near Victor Harbour and said it was "silly not to have a look
as it's only an hour away".
With a deposit drawn from the bank - -
just in case - - away he went.
We decided to go ahead so once the border was
re-opened and permits were obtained because of Covid 19 we took the tandem behind the 1963 Humber Super Snipe to pick it up.
I must say that my respect has grown
for the Humber as it forged on in 36 degree
heat to bring the Packard to Daylesford.

On the Wellington Ferry SA.

Apr. 2021. The car is now up and running.

VETERAN RUN IN THE T MODEL. Nov 2020

April 2021

At the end of a very rough track we arrive at "Lithium Spring".

This engine has been "done up".

Norm Beechey knew Peter Damman who raced one.
Michael's 1927 Crossley behind

Tom on the Lanz Bulldog

Grey '60 French ID sold to Clyde

Grey '60 French ID

Grey '60 French ID replaced driveshaft

Grey '60 French ID

Beige '64 Heidelberg ID swapped
to Dave for 1923 Hupmobile.

Beige '64 Heidelberg ID

Beige '64 Heidelberg ID

Here is an example of the beige '64 ID19
on old plates - -

- - and here on red plates.

Because of the corona virus the new owner was delayed in picking the ’64 ID19 up. As it was at my place I thought I’d keep fiddling with it.
I put some decent chevrons on the boot, made a front number plate bracket similar to one that was on an ID we owned years ago and put the speakers back in place which I don’t like.

Installed some original ashtrays into locating threads that were under the new upholstery.

Re-installed an original LHS bracket onto the correct threads. The odd thing here is that the air cleaner extension doesn’t allow one to pull the can (which I made up) out so I have a screwdriver underneath to loosen air cleaner end so one can slip off and slip back on after retrieving can and putting back.

and oh yes - - - the little glove box handle had the dip at the bottom while it should be at the top.

Atleast the mirror is the correct way - - -

I’m kind of sad to see it go but Michael did get a pretty good 1923 Hupmobile as a swap so I think the French term is something like - - tom-pis.

John

 

Peter's Morris Cowley ute.

Michael's P3 Rover & Big 6.

Rod & Carol Hadfield

Big 6

Michael's Citroen 1923 B2, '54 Cit.Lt15,
our '56 Big15 & Michael's '64 ID19

Michael's '54 Humber Super Snipe, '48 Sunbeam Talbot,
'48 P3 Rover, '27 Crossley & others shown left

Me, John writing in my "wish list"
1903 Oldsmobile Model R ‘curved dash’ (achieving a top speed of 20mph with two forward gears plus reverse).

Michael doing a purchase of a
1954 teardrop "Sportsman Caravanette".

1923 Citroen B2 Main St. Daylesford Jan. '19

Coming home in B2

At Musk Farm mar. 2019

Leaving Daylesford at 5.30 am in the 1954 Sunbeam Alpine and meeting Michael in one of his Rover P6’s near Hanging Rock at 6.15. From there it was a bit gruelling going slow to avoid kangaroos and the upcoming sun in our faces. The trip across the wooded hills where the catastrophic bushfires went through in the Kinglake area about 10 years ago.
Arrived to see a wonderful sight. I do like the general car shows but it is nice to see something else than the hundreds of Monaros, Falcons etc. Some very interesting cars. Strolled over to the Citroens. Some lovely cars including the Goddess of ’67 car that we owned some time ago and drove across the Nullarbor.
The trip back was a lot easier and the Alpine came into its own. I pretended to be Stirling Moss as I hooked it round the bends in the mountainous country, albeit in Victoria, rather than the mountain regions in France, Switzerland etc.
We much preferred the British & European days at Flemington racecourse, not so far away and such a privilege to be at such a historic location - - - but all good things come to an end.
One other event we went to last Friday was the Ballarat Swap which was very good. Well run and heaps of stalls. Found some “stuff” and also the odd old bakelite electrical fittings and an old RACV badge for our French TH. Schneider.
A great day, John

Peter with his made up Morris Cowley ute
- - - - like his Dad's

At Glenlyon 2019

Peter's T Model fire truck

At Trentham 2019

In the Smith family 1914 – 2017

Motor - 4 cyl. 3000cc Model 14/16cv
Gears – 4 forward plus reverse. Gate change, crash box, cone clutch.
Foot and hand brake having separate cast iron shoes direct to drums on rear.

1913 – Built in Besancort, France as a rolling chassis & shipped to Melbourne.
Coachwork by - - -
MELBOURNE MOTOR AND ASSEMBLING CO PTY LTD.

1914 --------Purchased by FG Smith, farmer at Barrapoort, central Victoria.

1934 --- After being driven for 20 years the TH Schneider is parked in barn.

1954 Alan Smith and his wife Desiree purchase the
farm from Alan’s father and his mother, Dorrie Smith.

1996 -- Alan and Desiree retire from the farm and move to Boort close by.
The TH Schneider comes with them and preliminary work begins.

2013 --------- The TH Schneider is taken to Castlemaine for restoration - -

2015 ---------------------Alan finishes work with help from his daughters,

Up the Creek Motors, Grant White Upholstery & Steve Barnett Motor Works

Glenlyon store

Lighting up.

1st Daylesford Motorfest 2019
1923 B2 Torpedo tourer, 1913 TH. Schneider
and friend's Ford T truck.

1st Daylesford Motorfest 2019
1956 Big 15 and 1929 Chrysler "65".

- - at Hanging Rock 2018

Early photo on the farm at Barraport

Dawn - - on the way to Hanging Rock 2018

- - at Hanging Rock 2018

- - at Hanging Rock 2018

TH. Schneider out bush near
St Arnaud. Apr 2018

Terry in his 1912 Sunbeam and the TH. Schneider
at woolshed out from St Arnaud. Apr 2018

Arriving in Geelong

Onto Portarlington Bakery

Portarlington

Point Lonsdale

Queenscliff - Sorrento ferry.

Cape Schanck rally Nov. '18

Morning rally start. Cape Schanck Nov. '18

Cape Schanck rally Nov. '18

I've been learing about carbide (acetylene) lamps and carbide granules, rock,
as I need to get the TH. Schneider headlights going.
If anyone has carbide in rock or granular form
I am interested to acquire some as I don't have a lot.

Catching up with a Hamilton Sunbeam
(dark green) owner at garage crawl on right Warrnanbool club
July 2017

After Warrnanbool we went onto Nelson
Both cars having Laycock o/drive
went very well. July 2017

At Nelson near SA.
Michael's Sunbeam Talbot,
our Sunbeam Alpine, July 2017

and then we took the Alpine to Robe, SA
and the Coonawarra wine region. July 2017

Moving from Michael's Nelson holiday house July "19

Michael's Landrover Port McDonald near Nelson.
John & Michael 2019

Early 2019
All interesting, the carry-on about convertibles. I like them very much but of course all the DS variations are wonderful cars. The cabriolet is just one of them.
I’ve just registered our second ’68 Safari after many years of mucking about and the excitement of driving a “new addition” is as intense as it has ever been.
Michael just sold his French 1960 ID for $20,000 so it’s nice that the appreciation for the D model is still high. I’ve been helping him with a ’64 Slough ID while Janet is up in Brisbane driving our ’74 D Special. Michael now has the funds to get the '64 Slough ID up and running and maybe start on his ’64 French Safari. So he will enjoy the Slough ID as much as the French one although the tale of the journey of the French car will always make it interesting.
Luckily there are many on this Froggy forum who enjoy the D’s and haven’t sold them to enjoy the later cars. They are all totally wonderful, and I’m glad of this forum that helps us keep these icons on the road of which one, out of many, happens to be a Cabriolet. When we owned one, we had to contend with the downsides of all convertibles and sports cars - - - wind, rain and cold.
I would like to think that us “Froggies” have these cars mainly to drive and not just something to look at, and drive they do, in all shapes and some sizes. I can say that I enjoy driving all D’s as much as the convertible we had. Recently Michael was asked which of the cars he owns is his favourite, which he answered - - “ I suppose its the one that I’m driving at the time.
We can all drool at a particular car but aren’t we lucky to be able to enjoy any D model Citroen which is as good as - - - any cabriolet.

John

1954 Sunbeam Alpine

in the movie - -

To Catch a Thief

Stirling Moss -- Alpine Rallies

Finally, full Vic Registration

Looking from Big 6 to Big 15

1956 Humber Hawk, 1950 Big 6, 1956 Big15 - 2011

Michael with Big 6 - - Marong 2011

Michael & Hans
Nice and roomy in the Big six

Michael talking Big 6 - - Marong 2011

End of Day Michael, Hans & Janet Marong 2011

Horses for courses. (approx 2011)

In Brisbane we tend to drive a number of Citroens for different purposes which prevents us from having to buy a new or late car that depreciates.
We have a “late” 1978 Citroen C35 van and the 1968 Safari as work cars for the business.
For long trips we “had” to buy a modern 1974 D Special for as the back seat is comfortable for Janet’s ageing Mum on Sunday jaunts.
Janet’s everyday car is the ’74 DS Automatic
and the 1967 DS and 1948 Light 15 are our town runabouts.

This isn’t a direct answer to your question but is an example of one couple who survive in this modern world, running a hectic business, and refusing to get drawn into buying a plastic computer car or van that starts to depreciate as soon as acquired.

All our cars work for their keep in there own way doing the jobs that maybe one new car might do with the costs of all our cars equating to the same cost, roughly, of the theoretical new car.

It is mainly the Traction gearbox that you need to be careful of.
I have come to love Tractions but wouldn't be game to throw an original one around as hard as I do ours, with the ID motor and box.
But then with our choice of cars I wouldn’t really need to drive the traction as much as I do.
We bought our particular Traction with the ID conversion already done as I was scared of them and thought the ID conversion would help me ease me into owning one of these cars. Now, with time, I have grown used to the Traction.

Our latest acquisition of a Big 6 stored in our tin shed in Victoria probably blows all this rationale to bits but then I never said that I was completely normal.

The ID of course was a thoroughly modern car when it came out compared to the Traction and can be driven hard as it is an overall tough workhorse.

I would build the extra car space and have the two. With the 45 or 90 day registration in Victoria, the costs are cheap.
If you sell the car you can always buy another one down the track but it won’t have the history and memories for you that this one has.

I have bought and sold a number of cars and tried to keep in mind that it is all in fun and not to take it all too seriously.

Enjoy the Traction - - you’ll have a ball.

John Paas.

Been reverse flushing the radiator in the '23 B2

Air helps a lot

What is correct in a D Model

Int. Mirrors - - Looks like the rectangular mirror was used up until Sept '61
from then until Sept 1969 the mirror had the wider part to the top
from Sept. 1969 the wider part is to the bottom.

Armrest - - pointy bit facing in.This might have been done to fit between the seats more snugly.

Exterior mirrors - - wide part facing out.

( ascertained by members of Aussie Frog website )

2015 French Car Day a hit

60 years 62 D's

Just to say that that this year’s French Car Day was great. 62 D model Citroens turned up so the aim of 60 D’s for the 60 year anniversary was realized.
I always enjoy studying the different Renaults and Peugeots. The enthusiasm that people like Tony Melcer have make it fun for all of us.

I had an interesting chat with a Renault 4CV/750 owner by the name Slade or so, I think. My mother drove us kids around when we were little in and around Geelong in the late 50’s in one of these. He told me about the automatic choke which didn’t seem to work on ours on cold mornings. With 7 kids there were always a few around to push start the car.
In about 1964 Mum sold the car to buy the funny back window Ford Anglia which she had trouble with. She regretted selling the Renault, probably thinking that all cars had good engineering like her Renault. The Anglia just wasn’t the same. The Renault Victorian rego GUE 090 and Dad's '57 Chev was GTF 973.
Dad was a bit of a home body so although the Chev seemed the obvious choice, it was Mum who took us to Ocean Grove and so-on with brothers and sisters on each other's laps to fit in. I don't think Mum would ever have been allowed to drive the Chev and I would think that Dad never drove the Renault. They were different days.

203 and 403 Peugeots always hold my fascination so seeing some lovely examples made the day all the more special. Jim Reddiex, the man responsible for selling many Citroens through Maxim motors was there and Arthur Lewis who had the workshop in Wynnum for many years maintaining many French cars. Lance Collins from DS Motors was the main reason why the D Model count was made possible. He badgered many a D model owner into coming so we have him to thank for making the 62 D's a reality. Ian Steele was there as always with a great camping with a Safari display, plus bringing one of two D Cabriolets.
It is always a chance to meet up with many old friends who continue to enjoy driving this wonderful mix of French cars.

John Paas.

Walter Ireland's wreckers yard Albany Creek, Brisbane 1976

I bought a 1934 Studebaker from Walter for about $400 but a bit later saw a 1934 Chrysler Imperial which I dearly wanted. He said he wasn't ready to sell it and went on to say that his caretaker, who lived in the back of one of the wrecks was leaving so I asked him what he would pay. In a rather colourful response he said that he wouldn’t be paying me but that I would need to pay him $10 for the privilege. I was renting a place in Red Hill in Brisbane for $20 a week so to save $10pw and live amongst this wonderful array of cars seemed pretty good to me. I flatly refused to live in a wreck so he reluctantly agreed that we clear out a room in the house for me of car parts of which of course the house was full. He would check in the bath in the mornings and rouse on me if I had the depth more than 6 inches because of the rainwater tank.
My duties would be to do evening patrols of the fence line, loaded shotgun in hand, help with picking up cars and be at the yard on weekends.
Through the daytime I was working with Antique dealers busily learning the trade.
I always had the Alsation dog to keep me company while I checked along the fence lines for objects thrown over the fence by rat bags who would pick them up in the night. Luckilly I didn’t encounter anyone as the hammer 12gauge shotgun was pretty old & rickety.
I was a willing worker on the tow truck winch and chain setup and loved all the stories he would tell while picking up cars around Brisbane. He had even lost money in a bank crash in the late 1940,s so he hadn’t had it easy.
One day when he was away I decided to paint the Airflow with sump oil to protect it from the elements. Needless to say he wasn’t happy and I only said that if he wouldn’t sell me the car I might as well try to prolong its life. The cars didn’t fare well in the humid, tropical, Queensland climate.
Walter of course loved his Stude’s and it was always a treat to see him drive them - - which he did. He wasn’t a tall fellow so you would just see his head above the steering wheel.
Walter came from another time so it was a privilege to be part of his life for the six months or so in 1976.
Oh yes, he did sell me the Airflow for I think $1200 which was a lot at the time and also an Austin Sheerline to my brother Michael for maybe $400 or so.
John

Our 2nd holiday house, Shelley Beach Caloundra

Making a surfboard - - June 1968

8 feet 4 inches long, 23" wide
"pintail" cost $44.40 to make.

At Aspley Brisbane

I wanted to be a "surf bum" & make boards - - JP

Me & my 1stcar 1962 EK Holden Panelvan
Moffatt Beach Caloundra - - Sept '68

At Noosa 1968

Perth or BUST - Woolgoolga - 5th Apr 1969

Bad corrugated road between Ceduna & Eucla.

The Nullarbor

Easier on the side than corrugations.

The Nullarbor

Note my green indicators - - ha ha.

We thought this would lead to Margaret River WA
but was only a farmer's track. 24th Apr.'69

4 cyl. Henderson
bought for $25

Swapped my going 4 cyl. Henderson (left)
for a '25 and '26 Harley of which, one is above.

about 1968 - - - stupid !!

My 1941 1200cc Harley that I "chopped"
while I was apprenticed at The Valley, Brisbane
Coca Cola plant as electrical fitter mechanic ('68-'72)
(21" Norton wheel on front)
1971

1971 Beaudesert way.
I think I thought I was cool - - -
but it WAS fun.

Overlooking Kings Beach Caloundra
1967 - - Michael next to car.
Our sister's boyfriend let Michael & I come along,
with very little room in the back of the
E Type Jag, when cruising for waves
between Caloundra & Noosa Heads

My Hayden board on the ground.
My sister's Wolsely on top I think,
with Michael's greenboard to left &
friend's belly board.
( Before Michael & I had licences.)

Sister's boyfriend also had this Mini Moke.

Here we are on the beach, about to head up to
Double Island Point with Noosa in the background.
Note the larger wheels on the front.

16th Mar. 1968

A wartime Jeep that we did up to drive up the beach and around Brisbane. 1969

Michael's 1st car - - an original
1937 Chev sloper on holiday to Victoria
from Brisbane towing a caravan.
It wasn't hard finding cars like this
for a few hundred dollars in the 1960's
About 1969

Looking down onto Noosa & Double Island Pt
in the distance.15th Oct.1967
Loaded up with boards. I learnt to drive &
got my licence in Paul's '59 FC Holden ute.
He was a "real mate"
(An FC station wagon behind us.)

Carl's Dad had this Toyota Crown which we thought
was very advanced with radio control at the
back seat,overdrive and so much more than we
were used to in Dad's Holdens,
Michael, Carl & my sister with Carl's older
sister driving - - at " Rons Reef ". 5th Nov. 1967

Eldest brother, Frank & Michael at Byron Bay
on our way down the coast to Canberra - 18th Jan.'68.
Michael's "KEN" board is on the bottom.

Mum was a good sport driving us to where the surf was.
She bought the Vauxhall 2nd hand after selling the
60's Anglia. Moffatt Beach Caloundra - July 1967

Our '65 Vauxhall Victor. Good ol' Mum.

"Iluka", our 1st holiday house in Otranto Ave Caloundra
Jan. '67 (Dunny out the back) John,Frank,Mum,Hans

My brother's Morris Oxford.( about '54 )
Surfin' Caloundra
Dickey Beach or Ann Street
My 1st board "Hayden Kenny" - Mar '67

My elder brother Hubert left with "CORD" board
and me with "HAYDEN KENNY" board.
Alexandra Headland
1966
I don't think I was all that cool but again - - great fun !!

2007

Pre 1910 Gagliardi