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WARR Magazine is an automotive and marine, race and restoration, print and on-line publication covering all facets of racing and restoration for machines that travel fast or look good on land or water.
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AUTOMOTIVE & MARINE WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April-June 2015 - ISSUE 4 INSIDE THIS ISSUE AUSTRALIAN F1 GRAND PRIX FEATURE AUSTRALIA’S FIRST JET QUAD BIKE 50TH SOUTHERN 80 SKI BOAT RACE MOTORVATION 29 GRAND CHAMPION 2015 WINNING HOT ROD & MORE...
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Page 1: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 1

July - September 2014 - ISSUE 1

AUTOMOTIVE & MARINE

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

April-June 2015 - ISSUE 4

INSIDE THIS ISSUEAUSTRALIAN F1 GRAND PRIX FEATURE

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST JET QUAD BIKE

50TH SOUTHERN 80 SKI BOAT RACE

MOTORVATION 29 GRAND CHAMPION 2015 WINNING HOT ROD & MORE...

Page 2: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

Need a car air conditioning compressor re-sealed, repaired or an exchange compressor?

Our qualified staff diagnose and repair air conditioning systems to all vehicles. We are also a leading Supplier of Automotive Air Conditioning parts and equipment to both retail and trade customers.

We install complete systems to new and used vehicles. Where a genuine or after market system is unavailable, we can custom engineer a solution for your unique vehicle.

A large range of new and reconditioned Compressors are kept in stock for your convenience. If you prefer, we are able to repair or re-seal most compressor types.

Your car air conditioning system is a sealed system. This means, if it requires a regas, it must have a leak! Drive in for a free initial inspection so we can supply you with an estimate of repair costs.

Leaking Hose, Pipe or Fittings?We can make or repair any combination of steel, aluminium, rubber pipes or hoses and even utilise your original fittings.

Car Aircon needs a regas?

Ph: (08) 9328 1228 Fax: (08) 9227 7416238 Lord Street Perth WA 6004

www.autocool.com.au

Page 3: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 3

LEN FRETWELLPublisher / EditorWARR MAGAZINE &DIGGING & DRILLING

Editor’s LetterWARR is an independent, local Western Australian based publication and I am humbled by the growing and overwhelming demand we have received for print copies. So much in fact, the only way it is possible to supply this demand, given the cost to print and produce this magazine, is to offer it for retail sale.

From July, 2015 WARR will be renamed RACE & RESTORE magazine, to better represent its automotive and marine, racing and restoration content and will become a print only, paid magazine.

RACE & RESTORE magazine will be available for purchase for the recommended retail price of AU$9.50 per copy from all TOOLMART stores and selected petrol stations, auto parts stores, shopping centre Newsagents and Progressive SUPA IGA supermarkets. There will be a list of RACE & RESTORE magazine stockists including their addresses, posted on our new website and Facebook page, listed below.

There are too many people that have assisted me with WARR to thank individually here but there are some very special people that I thank for their support from the beginning and into this new venture. Huge thanks to my East Coast motorsport photographer, Mi-chelle Porobic from Bright Design and to my West Coast feature/model photographer Craig Eccles from CE Photography for their fantastic images in every edition of WARR. And huge thanks to my beautiful wife Lena and wonderful son Maxim for their love, sup-port, patience and understanding.

Our team have put together a great mix of exciting, unique and the very best automo-tive and marine events and features possible for this historic, final edition of WARR. We worked long and hard to put together our very first Australian F1 Grand Prix feature, we found Australia’s first Jet Quad Bike, Michelle covered the 50th Southern 80 Water Ski Race and Craig did a marathon photo shoot with our Cover Model, Mikaela Wiggins with two hot rods and ’57 pillarless Chev Coupe, all at very short notice and close to print dead-line.

We have already started to put together some special adrenalin charged features that we have not covered before and I can assure you that RACE & RESTORE magazine will always feature great automotive and marine racing personalities and events plus beautiful cus-tom and restoration projects.

We are also open to suggestions for new and different topics to feature and will always be looking for unique racing machines, events and restoration project cars, bikes, boats and trucks so, please contact us to discuss a possible special feature article.

Best regards

WARR welcomes comments and suggestions, as well as notification about errors that may call for corrections. We are firmly committed to presenting information as fairly and accurately as possible.

Disclaimer: Reasonable care is taken to ensure that WARR magazine articles are as up-to-date and accurate as possible, as at the time of publication but no responsibility can be taken for any errors or omissions contained herein. The opinions expressed are those of the individual article authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of WARR magazine. The publisher, editor, contributors and related parties accept no responsibility for any action or omission by any other contributor, consultant, editor or related party.

Len F retwellP.S: Keep a look out in July, 2015 for:

Race and Restore WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

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4 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

IN THIS ISSUE

33

73

44

21 27

60

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 5

WARR MAGAZINE

FEEDBACKARTICLE INQUIRIES

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

EDITORWRITERS

GUEST WRITERSRESTORATION FEATURES

SPECIAL DRIVER FEATURES

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

SUBSCRIPTIONPUBLISHING

INFORMATION

SISTER PUBLICATION

AMP TOWER - LEVEL 28140 ST GEORGES TERRACE PERTH WA 6000TEL: +61 1300 284 637 FAX: +61 (8) 9300 9435

[email protected]@[email protected]

LEN FRETWELLMICHELLE POROBIC, EMMANUEL SOLOMONANTHONY BOUS & DANIEL MIOCEVICHCOLIN PAYNELENA KOZAK

WATER LI

[email protected] MAGAZINE IS A TRADING NAME OF WEST AUSTRALIAN RACE AND RESTORATION MAGAZINE TRUSTABN: 42 289 729 367

DIGGING & DRILLING AUSTRALASIA MAGAZINE WWW.DIGGINGDRILLING.COM

7

67

39

Race and Restore WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

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6 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Contact Us on: 08 9248 422087 Holder Way, Malaga WA

We specialise in thechroming of

HOT RODS, BIKESand any

STREET MACHINES

We specialise in thechroming of

HOT RODS, BIKESand any

STREET MACHINES

Page 7: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 7

Contact Us on: 08 9248 422087 Holder Way, Malaga WA

We specialise in thechroming of

HOT RODS, BIKESand any

STREET MACHINES

We specialise in thechroming of

HOT RODS, BIKESand any

STREET MACHINES MOTORVATION 2015 GRAND CHAMPION WINNING

1932 FORD HOT ROD WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 7

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8 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Ralph Italiano’s 1932 Ford 5 window coupe is this year’s Motorvation 29 Grand Champion winning Hot Rod and was built brand new, from the ground up. WARR caught up with Ralph Italiano recently for this exclusive interview and cover model photo shoot.

WARR: Congratulations for winning the 2015 MV 29 Grand Champion with your Ford 5 win-dow Coupe, what is the story behind wanting to build a Hot Rod from scratch and choosing to build this car?

RALPH ITALIANO: I’ve been into Hot Rods since I was a little kid, my Dad started taking me to Hot Rod shows when I was 5-years old and I have always loved them. As soon as I

could afford it, I definitely had to get one. Everyone has a definition of what a Hot Rod is and to me, this is my definition of a Hot Rod, how it should look, the stance, this is what a true Hot Rod is to me.

WARR: How long did the build take and what was involved in this build?

RI: I started the build with a Deuce Customs fibre glass body set on a Lewis Chassis Works chassis. Right from the start, I wanted an old school look for the car which influenced the front of the car with the Super Bell front end, drilled I-beam axle and the Ford 8BA flat en-gine. It took about 3-years to find all of the parts I wanted to use and it took Steve Houlihan about a year to put it together.

8 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 9

WARR: Was it difficult to find the parts to build your Hot Rod?

RI: I got most of the rare parts, including the headlights and chrome front tank from MOONEYES in the USA. I was looking at their website one night and they had just released their first chrome 9-inch diff cover and I bought the first one that they had sold in Australia. I got the mo-tor from H&H Flatheads in the US and it was the first one they had shipped to Australia so, there are a couple of Australian firsts in this car.

Page 10: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WARR: What is the running gear set up in your Hot Rod?

RI: It has an 8BA Ford flat engine, which was the 1st Ford V8, bored out to 284 ci with a C4 3-speed automatic transmission and Ford 9 inch diff.

WARR: Are there any specific features that you wanted in your Hot Rod?

RI: One of the main features that I wanted in this car was to have the headlights just proud of the grille. To me this is a true hot rod, a lot of people have them flush but I prefer them like

10 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Images: Craig Eccles

Page 11: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

this. Because I run the original motor, Deuce Customs were able to put an original firewall on it, which was the first one they had done. Be-cause a lot of Australian enthusiasts don’t run the original motor, this is quite rare here.

WARR: Would you like to mention the people

and/or organizations that helped you with this build project?

RI: I would like to thank my Dad Joe, Steve Houlihan, Trimcare and Sam Hawkins at Awe-sam Paintworks, who painted the car.

OWNER: RALPH ITALIANO

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12 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Hire your own race track, weekdays from $1760 a day or a weekend from $2750 a day. Great for corporate days!

Call 0428 826 613 or email admin@motoringsouthwest for more detailswww.motoringsouthwest.org.au

EVENTS

643 Powerhouse Road, Collie WA 6225 – two hours south of Perth

Page 13: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 13

Hire your own race track, weekdays from $1760 a day or a weekend from $2750 a day. Great for corporate days!

Call 0428 826 613 or email admin@motoringsouthwest for more detailswww.motoringsouthwest.org.au

EVENTS

643 Powerhouse Road, Collie WA 6225 – two hours south of Perth

Page 14: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

14 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

TOUGH MOTOR’S AND CLUTCHESFOR YOUR TOUGH FORD OR HOLDEN

• SPECIALIST TUNING ON CLASSIC, CUSTOM AND OLDER TOUGH CARS• ALL MODERN EFI WORK DONE ON LOCAL AND IMPORTED CARS

WE BUILD TOUGH CARS TOUGHER!

5/6 O’Malley Street Osborne Park WA 6017Phone: +61 (8) 9446 1913 Email: [email protected]

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1,000 HP Plus N/A RHS Tall Block

FG Falcon 6 Cyl Turbo – 650 HP @ TyresCan

now tune Dodge, Chrysler,

Jeep

308 Stroked to 355ci in HX Kingswood

Page 15: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 15

Collie Motorplex

RELAY FOR LIFE ADVANCED DRIVER TRAINING CHARITY EVENT

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 15

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16 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

WARR was recently invited to the Collie Motor-plex by Geoff Bridges from Summit Realty South West for a great day of advanced driver training. This charity event raised $8,000.00 for the Can-cer Council of Western Australia’s Relay for Life on the day.

Summit Realty Charity Foundation holds a gala charity fund raising ball each year in Bunbury which has been running for twelve years now. Tim Slako from West Racing Motor Development, Mario Casotti from Casotti Group, Andrew Brown, Peter Nizich and others at this Collie Motorplex event have been supporting the Summit Charity Ball for years and together, each year they put

on a different event. Last year they put on a V8 Race Day at Barbagallo Raceway and this year, four lots of five cars were sold off to come to this year’s event at the Collie Motorplex.

The total amount raised on the night of the ball was $102,000.00. All funds raised go to the W.A. Cancer Council’s ‘Relay for Life’ program which Summit have a team in and raises money all year which culminates in a 24-hour walk at Payne park Bunbury. The Summit Team that participates in the Relay for Life event are the highest fund raisers for this event in Australia and have raised over $620,000.00 in the eleven years they have been involved.

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There were 30 people at the Collie Motorplex

event and they received in car advanced driver

training and had a ride in the Group A and V8

Supercars that were generously trucked down

from Perth by Greg Stewart from GJ Freight in

Donnybrook with the Prime Mover that is pic-

tured in this article.

The next Summit Charity Ball will be held on the

29th of August, 2015 at the Italian Club in Bun-

bury and for more information about the ball,

the Relay for Life program or to donate charity

auction items, go to the Summit Realty Face-

book page.

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 19

Page 20: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

20 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

We specialise in the repair of bent and buckled steel & alloy wheelscreated by pot holes and kerbs, etc. We also polish, paint and

refurbish wheels to as new condition.

YOUR WHEELS AS NEW FOR A FRACTION OF THE COST OF REPLACEMENT

PH: 9248 4953LICENCED REPAIRER MRB3204

2/25 MONTGOMERY WAY MALAGA WA 6090www.alliancerimrepairs.com.au

CUSTOM PAINT REPAIR & POLISH

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REPAIRS – BUCKLES & DENTS

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OUR SERVICES

WA’S NUMBER ONE REGISTERED WHEEL REPAIRER

Page 21: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 21Image: Michelle Porobic

CHRIS MATHESON TOP FUEL MOTORCYCLE

CAREER SNAPSHOT

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 21

Page 22: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WARR recently caught up with Chris Matheson and after seeing the YouTube footage of Chris stepping off his Top Fuel Motorcycle at 370kph plus, we just had to ask;

WARR: What was your worst experience racing your Drag Bikes?

Chris Matheson: Back in May 2013, we were competing at Sydney Dragway at the Pro-Series National Round of the ANDRA Championship when disaster struck. We had Top Qualified with a 6.07 at over 235mph (378kph) and were pumped about re-setting our own Track record.

The Bike fired out of the hole and soon got going, as it always did. 100mph (160kph) in 1 second, 200mph (340kph) in 3.9 seconds and then a football field per sec-ond to the finish line. The Bike makes 1500 horsepower at the rear wheel, uses 20 litres of Nitro in 6 seconds and carries the front wheel the entire 1,320ft, 400m pass. To say its quick is an understatement, this thing is an abso-lute missile and it was on a number that day.

The pass was straight, quick and tidy, the quick ones usually are, as I passed the finish line at over 235mph (378kph), I shut off the throttle and instinctively reached for the rear brake to start the slow down procedure. Pow, next thing I recall saying is I’m off the Bike, rolling, tumbling, sliding down the track, as the bike continued at speed off into the distance. I had been blown off as I went for the brake, hitting a bump the split second I released my fingers off the handle bars to grab the rear brake.

Once your fingers are off, the wind pressure just rips you off and you’re gone. I eventually stopped, got to my feet and was greeted by the safety crews. The Bike went through the sand trap, through a safety net, over a 2m tyre wall, then launched up a large embankment, eventu-ally coming to a peaceful rest.

Well, for me, it was the beginning of some painful recov-ery, which is still a part of my life today. I was very lucky the initial impact was with the rear of my head, smash-ing my helmet, then my leathers did the rest. I suffered multiple broken bones, internal injuries, along with some significant friction burns from the sliding. Six months later, I returned to the track and quickly got back into the groove, Top Qualifying No.1.

These bikes are quick and fast, I’ve run as fast as 6.04 at over 241mph (390kph) and hope to go one better, drop-ping into the five second zone. It’s a passion you have

to run quick and fast, I love it and will keep chasing the 5 second zone, until I achieve it!

WARR: Do you have another Drag Bike racing experi-ence you would like to share with our readers?

Chris Matheson: Yes, at the recent round in Perth, my first pass was a little exciting when the throttle stayed on after the pass. I just did a half track shake down run when after shutting of the throttle, the engine stayed rev-ving. I pushed the fuel shut off button but no response so, I pulled the dead man cord which is the last fail safe, well nothing. I was fast running out of track and the brakes were glowing while the bike was in high gear and still driving the rear wheel.

These bikes become direct drive after about 2.5 seconds and there is no neutral so, you just cannot kick them out of gear and stop. The other option is kill the ignition but the issue is if you shut off the ignition the engine will fuel up and hydraulic, it then becomes a nasty bomb you don’t want to be on top of! The titanium vest we wear will stop fragments going through your body but not the massive concussion, so killing the motor is very dangerous and an absolute last resort. I only had a few options as I ran out of track, I could hit the sand, try to get to the return road and hope it would run out of fuel or kill the motor. As I swung around the exit Corner, I was greeted with two Top Fuel cars picking up parachutes and dowsing engine fires from the run before me, as I banged my way through the on lookers I managed to get it stopped and decided to chance shutting the ignition off. This was a last resort and one you don’t ever want to do!

With little choice as my brakes had boiled, the clutch was glowing and the heat from the clutch had set fire to the wiring and air loom under the bike so, I killed it. Bang it went but lucky it exploded through the injectors destroy-ing both sides, thankfully it was dead. The damage was massive, we missed all the racing that weekend and it cost us any chance of winning the championship. We later discovered the new shut off valve we fitted had a tiny piece of rubber stuck in it stopping the fuel open enough to cause so much grief. Never the less it could have been way worse, I often smile at the incident as at the end of the track the track staff give you a cup of cool water after your run, after all the confusion I eventually shut the bike down.

I turned around and in my face was a young track staff member totally unfazed with the whole incident offering me a cup of water, meanwhile grown men were diving for cover as they waited for the impending explosion.

Matheson steps off at over 370 kph, smoking his leathers – Sydney Dragway May 2013

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 23

53 years oldLives in BrisbaneFamily : Married to Paiwan. Sons Tom and PaePets : Red Cattle Dog “Max” and Black Cat “TC”Hobbies: Going fast. Family & Pets.Work: Yes unfortunatelyFavourite Food : YesStarted racing Motorcycles at 13 Speedway Motorcross, Drag Racing, then Land Speed Lake Gairdner (South Australia) and Bonneville, Utah, USA. Member of the 200 mph Club Ford Nascar.

Chris Matheson Personal

Voodoo Machine winning the Winternationals

Other Points of Interest Started 2009 & won first race. The bike former “Hulk” ran multiple 5 second passes in USA best 5.8sec 3 National Championships from Rookie Start 3rd in National Championship (missed most of the season 2013 recovering from crash) 2nd in 2014 Championship (missed early rounds, due to follow up operations) Rookie of the Year – Willowbank Raceway 2009 Pass of the Year – Willowbank Raceway 2009 National Record Holder – Rookie Year – 6.05 Current National Record Holder – 6.04 @ 241.8 mph Willowbank Raceway 2013 Track Record Sydney Dragway 2013 – 6.07 Track Record Adelaide International Raceway April 2012 – 5.30 - 196.61mph (1000ft) Quickest Half Track in Australia Willowbank Raceway – 3.86 @ 205.66 mph Best 60ft 0.999

Won the Australian Nationals 3 years in a row Won the Winternationals 3 Times Won the Nitro Champs 3 Times

The Hulk

Matheson’s first pass back after crashing at over 370 kph 6 months after the accident.Matheson Top Qualified with a left foot full of titanium.

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24 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Perth Motorplex, Kwinana

Competed 9 times in Perth Won 3 Times 1 on Jack Hammer Nitro Harley Round 1 2015 Runner Up 6 Times Top Qualifier 4 Times Best WA ET – 6.12 Nitro Voodoo Best WA MPH – 220.04 Nitro Voodoo

Note: we are waiting for crank shafts from the USA for our Nitro Voodoo bike, expect to start testing mid 2015. In the Interim we will compete on the Nitro Harley “Jack Hammer”

Main goal is to run a five second pass in Australia

Doug Vancil’s Record Winning Machine

Matheson contemplating his next pass at Perth Motorplex

Nitro VoodooBest Pass in USA 5.80 @ 231.3 mph 1 Championship Best Pass in Australia 6.04 @ 241.8 mph 3 Championships Fastest in the Southern Hemisphere ET Ranking - Top 10 in the World MPH Ranking – Top 4 in the World Best Half Track 3.86 @ 205.66 mph

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 25

Jack HammerBest Pass in USA 6.22 @ 232.6 mph 6 Championships, numerous Records Quickest Nitro Harley in the World, until recently. Formerly owned by Doug Vancil. Bike has total new body design and multiple upgrades Best Half Track 4.07 Best Result in Australia 6.44 @ 218 mph Won the opening Round at Perth January 2015

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 25

Image: Gordon Hayward - Flashpixx

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26 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

CHRIS BUHAGIAR OWNER/DRIVER OF

224 TRIPPA DRAG BOAT

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 27

CHRIS BUHAGIAR OWNER/DRIVER OF

224 TRIPPA DRAG BOAT

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 27

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28 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

WARR: Congratulations on your success last season running one of Australia’s fastest Hydro Drag Boats. How did you get involved with boat racing and what were the steps you took to get to where you are now in racing?

Chris Buhagiar: Thank you and a big thank you to all the sponsors, the Victorian Drag Boat Club, and its members for making drag boat racing possible. I first drag raced my social ski boat back in 1998. My boss at the time, Joe Gristie was heavily involved in the sport so, it was quite easy for me to get involved.

I acquired my first sponsorship deal with B&R Storage Systems in 2006, this deal lead to oth-ers and with the team doing all the mechanics

we were able to get the blown alcohol machine going pretty fast!

WARR: How does it feel handling a machine at over 150mph on the water, the boat must be almost uncontrollable?

CB: It’s not too often that I have raced the boat over 150mph, but I have to say the few times that I have the boat has performed perfectly. I believe the Trippa boat runs smoother and ac-celerate harder when it hits 150mph.

WARR: Can you walk us through a description of a run, from start to finish line.

CB: Sitting on the holding rope looking down

Owner/Driver: Chris Buhagiar

Images: Michelle Porobic

Page 29: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 29

the liquid quarter mile is the best. I sit and wait for the control tower to ensure the course in clear before they radio start boat Dave (Dave Carter), then I hear Dave Yell “TRIPPA, thumps up when you’re ready”. I give the thumbs up and stare at the start lights. Dave then yells to my competitor in the other lane and before you know it the amber light is flashing. 25 seconds of flashing amber light gives me time to start the motor and ensure its ready for launch. Then the amber light goes solid for 5 seconds, I let go of the holding rope and place both hand on the steering wheel and thump on the air shifter switch. Amber light goes out and the clock starts to count down from 9 to 0. I switch into gear and go full throttle when I see 5...or maybe its 7...um...um. Well anyway, the boat launches

and sits straight, this is good. At 1/5 track I should be at 135 mph then maintain speed till the finish line. My goal on each pass is 8.00 seconds @ 135 to 145 mph.

WARR: What is the build year, type and me-chanical spec’s, engine and running gear of your Hydro Drag Boat?

CB: We run an old school big block Chev, 540 cubes, Dart 360 race series cylinder heads, 871 supercharger, Mallory super mag 4, Cassell V drive and a few other trick bits. The hull is a well raced 1985 model Kurtis Kraft Hydroplane and I believe it’s the only Large Kurtis Kraft in Australia.

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Page 30: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

WARR: Can you tell us about your crew?

CB: Keith Hinton, Drew Beckwith and my younger brother Tim Buhagiar. These 3 leg-ends have helped me from the start and have never asked for anything in return.

WARR: How did you first get involved with and the Victorian Drag Boat Club?

CB: At first, I just turned up on race day, raced my boat then went home. As my interest in drag boat racing grew, I started to attend the clubs committee/general meetings which are held on the second Tuesday of each month. Since the first meeting I attended I have had the privilege to see the Victorian Drag Boat Club go from strength to strength.

WARR: Do you have a Drag Boat story or

experience that you would like to share with our readers?

CB: One race I will never forget is Trippa (8 second class) V’s Xlerator (12 second class). 4 second staggered start. I’m sitting on the hold-ing hope watching Troy go flat out down the track for 4 seconds until I ‘smashed’ the GO pedal. Longest 4 seconds ever! The Trippa boat won by .203 of a second.

WARR: Was there ever a time that you thought that it was all too hard and wanted to walk away from racing?

CB: Not really, it’s usually something else that makes me feel like walking way. But then I realize walking away won’t fix anything. In fact it would probably make things worse so, best I keep RACING!

Page 31: Warr magazine april 2015 (web)

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WARR: What is your biggest wish?

CB: My biggest Drag Boat Racing wish is 200…..mph!

WARR: What are your top 10 tips to those who are about to start racing drag boats?

CB: 1: Do it because it’s what YOU want to do!2: Talk to the racers and club members.3: Hydro’s are faster.4: Attend all drag boat racing events.5: Join the Victorian Drag Boat Club.6: Race day is the ‘BEST DAY’ to test your boat.7: Preparation is the key to consistency.8: Consistency is the key to winning.9: Eat pasta before race day.10: Eat steak, chips and eggs with creamy garlic sauce after race day.

WARR: Who are your supporters/sponsors?

CB: Casey Exhaust & Service Centre is my workshop located in Berwick, Vic and of course plays a major part of the Trippa drag boat team. Phoenix Lubricants have not only supported my drag boat racing career, but have also been there in business as well. B&R Storage Systems, Dan-dy Bolts, WLG Consulting and Ultimate Radia-tors have all sponsored the Trippa team over the years and without their support the team would not be where it is today. Thanks to all.

WARR: What does the future hold for you?

CB: 8 seconds is the fastest drag boat class available for open cockpit boats. The Trippa boat has consistently raced in this class for many years and I hope in the very near future we can move up to an enclosed capsule race boat.

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 31

From Left to Right - Tim Buhagiar, Drew Beckwith, Chris Buhagiar & Keith Hinton

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32 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

Mobile: 0402 018 351 Workshop: 9497 9381

Facebook: Lethal Industries

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WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 33

Mobile: 0402 018 351 Workshop: 9497 9381

Facebook: Lethal Industries

LEIGH FALLON’s LETHAL FORD XW UTE

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 33

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Leigh Fallon’s XW Ute runs 9’s and is well known for 60ft wheelstands from the start line, enough said. WARR recently caught up with this WA Super Sedan Champion for this exclusive interview.

WARR: Congratulations on your Super Sedan suc-cess with your Ford XW Ute. What was your first drag car and how and why did you get involved in drag racing?

Leigh Falllon: the Ute is my first drag car that we have progressed with over the last four years. I have been into tuff cars since I was a kid and always loved the drags so about 5 years ago I knocked off work on a Wednesday and thought stuff it I’m going to Whoop Arse Wednesday tonight, rang the wife and told her my plan and I think she nearly had a heart attack.

WARR: What is the story behind choosing a Ute and this particular car, year and model for a drag car?

LF: I had an XY Ute years ago and being young and dumb I put it in a ditch. About 5 years after that I wanted another cool Ute as my daily driver so I looked at a few that weren’t real flash and then the XW popped up so me and the wife went and had a look and I drove it home that afternoon. It was white in colour and I drove it like that for a couple of years but I always loved the colour silver fox so I decided it was time for a full rebuild. After 10 months I had rebuilt the engine, panel and painted it and re-trimmed it all my shed at home. As the family grew we couldn’t all fit in the Ute to go for a cruise and the drag racing bug bit so the Ute has just progressed into a drag car.

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WARR: What are the mechanical specifications, engine and running gear set up in your Ute?

LF: SCM built dart Windsor 434 CI with trick flow Windsor heads, All-fast built C4 and converter with a 9” rear end.

WARR: How do you control the car when it leaves the start line with both front wheels off the ground?

LF: you can’t, you hope you have the rear end set up correct so it drives straight but if it’s going to the right you can feel it even though you can’t see where you’re going, if this happens I just short shift into second gear to bring it down gently. In saying all that this is what I love about racing the Ute, expect the unexpected haha.

WARR: What were your best and worst experiences racing your car?

LF: The best was winning both the State Super Sedan Championship and the Fast Series Sportsman Championship last season in what is basically a tuff street car racing amongst a lot of purpose built race cars. The worst… being told I had to put Wheelie Bars on or I wasn’t allowed to race. haha

WARR: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about getting involved in Drag Racing?

LF: Do it! It’s a great atmosphere and an awesome sport with a variety of different Brackets to cater for everybody. We have met a lot of great friends through racing at the track but be warned it’s very addictive.

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Images: Luke Nieuwhof

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WARR: Who are your sponsors and the people that have helped you with your car?

LF: we have a great sponsor on board this year AK Paint Place who have a great range of paints and very knowledgeable staff. A huge thanks to Sandro from SCM race engines for not only being an awe-some engine builder but also for being a true friend, Gonz from All-fast converters for his friendship and building the best converters in Oz, Superoo falcon spares, last but not least my Family Crew – my amazing wife Tianah for her ongoing support and encouragement and for letting me live my dream,

my daughters Maddy and Brooke who do a great job helping out on race day and my nephew Hayden who is always there in the shed and the track.

WARR: What is the car in the Background?

LF: It’s a TD Cortina that I’m building with my girls. The bug has bit them and it is their future race car.

WARR: What is your day job?

LF: We have a Steel Fabrication Business – Fal-lons Fabrications and my passion for Drag Racing

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has resulted in our other business Lethal Industries in which we do Roll Cages, Custom Headers, Rear End Set Ups, Wheelie Bars etc etc,. Our specialty is setting up Leaf Spring Rear Ends that work.

WARR: What is your dream or wish for the future?

LF: An engine with Boost! I’m thinking Turbo’s and Tianah’s thinking Super Charger. So any Sponsors out there - feel free to help the cause!!!

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38 April - June 2015 WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU6 Vale Street, Malaga, Western Australia 60909249 3066 allfast.com.au [email protected]

All our Hi Stall torque converters feature:Hi quality Torrington needle roller bearingsFurnace Brazed turbine and pumpHi torque stator assembliesHardened steel splinesThick Wall steel pump drivesLock Up Converters are fitted withHigh Carbon Heavy Duty Lock up PlateComputer designed to suit your application

Leigh Fallon W.A.’s #1 Super SedanLeigh Fallon W.A.’s #1 Super Sedan

Leigh Fallon W.A. Super Sedan ChampionLeigh Fallon W.A. Super Sedan Champion

PERFORMANCE IS

AUTOMATIC AT

LAUNCH INTO SUMMER WITH

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST EVER JET POWERED QUAD BIKE

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AUSTRALIA’S FIRST EVER JET POWERED QUAD BIKE

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What a high octane, high powered Australian at-

traction this is. For the first time ever in Austral-

ia, not a car, not a van, it’s a FOUR WHEELER

MOTORCYCLE with rider dangerously mounted

over the Jet engine!

The Jet Quad’s engine is a General Electric T58

helicopter turboshaft engine that was converted

to a jet engine by some internal modifications

and a custom tailpipe. The engine spins up to

26,000 RPM (idle is 13,000 RPM), draws air at

11,000 CFM and is rated at 1350 hp. It weighs

only 300 lbs.

The Jet Quad Bike is one of the amazing sup-

port acts performing at Monster Truck Promo-

tions

Australia show around the country.

For Australian Tour dates and information, go to:

www.monstertruckpromotionsaustralia.com

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Image: Dennis Renton Photography

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MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 TEAM WIN 2015

AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIXThe 2015 ROLEX Australian Grand Prix - Formula One World Championship was the 1st Grand Prix of the 2015 season and was held on the 15th of March at Albert Park in Melbourne. Consisting of 58 laps with a total race distance of 191 miles, Lewis Hamilton won the 2015 Australian Grand Prix with a time of 1:31:54.067 averaging 200.807 mph and Nico Rosberg placed second for a MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS 1 & 2 win-ning start the 2015 F1 season. Sebastian Vettel placed third in a Ferrari and Felipe Massa placed fourth in a Williams.

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AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX

Images: Shane Matthews - SKM Photography

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MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Gets Back to Work with the new F1 W06 Hybrid Silver Arrow.

On the 1st of February, 2015 the MER-CEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team unveiled its 2015 Formula One World Championship challenger, the F1 W06 Hybrid, ahead of the first day of pre-season testing at the Circuito de Jerez in Spain. Drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg revealed the seventh Silver Arrow to compete in the Formula One World Championship.

From Revolution to Evolution

2015 marks the beginning of an evo-lutionary process for the cutting-edge Hybrid racing formula introduced for 2014. But the word evolution shouldn’t mask the scale of the change this repre-sents: the regulatory requirements and opportunities, coupled with ambitious internal performance targets, mean that this winter has been as challenging as ever. The more stable the rules, the more innovative a team must become to deliver performance from each generation of rac-ing machine.

“From outside, winter might look like a rest time in Formula One. But this couldn’t be further from the truth”, explains Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. “Long before the end of last season, development work on our 2015 car became the main priority. The winter months are the most intense, with everybody at Brackley and Brixworth working around the clock to prepare for the season ahead. Their dedication is inspiring. It would be so dangerous to rest on our laurels after 2014 but none of us have any sense that things will be easier now. On the contrary, our motiva-tion is as high as ever. There’s a famous Babe Ruth quote I always say to people: “Yesterday’s home runs don’t win today’s games”. We are fully aware that success is not only hard won but can also be short-lived without the right approach.

“A lot of things have been put in place - not by one individual but by many individuals working as a team. And this has been about taking the right decisions

at the right time, trying to avoid mistakes and, if they do happen, quickly analyzing why. Even if, on paper, things are looking good, we will not fall into the trap of being overly optimistic or trying to make crystal ball predictions because this is not how the sport works. In fact, this is possibly the most brutally honest sport because the stopwatch never lies.

“The launch of a new car is an exciting moment for everybody involved. To see the product of all that hard work turn a wheel for the first time is a great source of pride - and rightly so. However, there is a long road ahead before we reach the first race. We must build a fast, reliable racing car to be able to compete with rivals whose ability and competitiveness can never be underestimated. At this point, every team is on zero points. The only thing we know for sure is that we have consistency in our driver line-up for the third year running and they know what’s expected of them, just as we know what they expect from us. We’re looking forward to seeing them push each other and the team forward. It will be another fascinating battle between the two but we must wait until Melbourne until we know if we have provided them with a car that allows them to fight each other for wins.”

As the age of Hybrid power evolves, so the requirements for improved safety, reliability, efficiency and performance increase. An intensive design phase com-bining incremental gains and targeted innovation has produced the F1 W06 Hybrid, a car which delivers mechanical, structural, aerodynamic and weight sav-ing developments over its predecessor, the F1 W05 Hybrid.

“The key factor from our perspective is avoiding complacency”, says Execu-tive Director (Technical), Paddy Lowe. “Expectations are now high and a lot of assumptions are being made about our potential this season. Internally, how-ever, we are fully aware that you can never afford to stand still in any sport - particularly Formula One. We are up against competitors with a great history of success and, like us, they will not be content unless they are winning. As the old motor racing adage goes, you are only as good as your last race. This time last year, with the new Hybrid technology yet to hit the track, we went to Silverstone for a filming day and were genuinely surprised to see the car drive out of the garage! Second time around we may be over the initial hurdles of the new formula but we keep them fresh in our minds, as it demonstrates that nothing can be taken for granted. The only thing that is in our control is the ability to do the very best we can in every area.

“Of course, like every other team on the grid, we have been pushing harder than ever to find areas for performance gains. But at the same time, we must ensure we are moving in the correct direction. One of the risks with car development is that attempting forward steps can easily turn into rearward steps. You have to take risks to progress – but those risks must be carefully managed in order to produce a car that is better than its predecessor. This has been an underlying theme for the team over the winter.

“It is an evolutionary process and this also includes the regulations them-selves. Relative to last winter, these have remained reasonably stable into 2015. But this is certainly not to say that the cars we see take to the track in Jerez will be near- replicas of their predeces-sors. Some changes will be more visually obvious, of course, but the devil is in the detail. Beneath the covers there have been a raft of developments from both a chassis and Power Unit perspective – all aimed at creating a car that is safer, more efficient, more reliable and ultimately faster. With the Hybrid era still very much in its infancy, there is plenty of scope for innovation. The challenge at this stage is to find the key areas for performance gain based not just on what we have learned a year further down the line, but also on where there is room for exploring new and innovative sources of competi-tive advantage.”

PETRONAS – Technical Excellence for a Landmark Year

Having first entered Formula One in 1995, PETRONAS celebrates 20 years of competition in 2015 – and a double decade of experience in honing its fuel and lubricant expertise for the race track and the road.

PETRONAS has been central to the team’s performance since becoming Title Partner and key Technical Partner in 2010, with a dedicated technology team working on the design, development and

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delivery of bespoke PETRONAS Primax race fuel, PETRONAS Syntium engine oil, and PETRONAS Tutela fluids - test-ing chemistries in real engines to deliver ultimate performance.

Following the announcement of revolu-tionary regulation changes for the 2014 Formula One season, PETRONAS spent more than three years working closely with the Team to engineer a brand new range of customized fuels and lubricants

with a competitive edge in the new Hybrid era. The success story of 2014 proved that they were on the right track with their formulations.

Now, with a limit of four Power Units per driver, per season in 2015 compared to the five permitted in 2014, the demands on both PETRONAS Primax fuel and PETRONAS Syntium lubricants are greater than ever. The key to meeting these challenges has been PETRONAS Fluid Technology Solutions – an intel-ligent approach to fluid requirements that maximizes performance through tailor-made product offerings and expert services.

For the new season, PETRONAS has developed a fuel which enhances protection of the engine, provides better combustion and improves drivability. The fuel prevents engine damage by cleaning and protecting the critical high-pressure direct injection system and sensitive engine parts; the fuel formulation has been optimized to provide better combus-tion by enhanced energy release; and the advanced energy formula has been designed to ensure good drivability for superior acceleration – all while build-ing upon the efficiency gains already

achieved in development for the previous season.

With its increased power per litre of dis-placement, the 1.6 litre Internal Combus-tion Engine (ICE) of the Hybrid era also runs hotter than its 2.4 litre predecessor. This requires lubricants that do not get too thin under high temperatures and resist oxidation – balanced with a require-ment to minimize friction within the ICE for reduced fuel consumption.

Equipped with a unique formulation to defend against extreme temperature and maintain optimum engine performance, PETRONAS Syntium proved to be a win-ning formula in 2014, with PETRONAS scientists also translating its advanced technology into the formulation of ERS fluid.With Formula One Power Units now aligned to downsized, turbocharged road car engines, this intensive research and development becomes particularly pertinent. Designed to enable engines to perform optimally in the most extreme of conditions, the unique formulation of PETRONAS Primax, PETRONAS Syntium and PETRONAS Tutela products addresses engine needs both on and off the race track. After all, it is not just Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg who need their vehicles at their best – but everyday drivers all over the world.

“We have been working hard on all areas of the Power Unit to increase the conversion efficiency of every single sys-tem – trying to make our package more thermally efficient and produce greater absolute power”, says Andy Cowell, Managing Director, Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains. “The focus

in this respect has been on combustion efficiency and frictional losses – be they in core parts of the ICE or the ancillary aspects of both ICE and ERS. Develop-ment of fuel and lubricants has been critical to this process and we have continued working well with PETRONAS in this respect”. “Every manufacturer on the grid did a fantastic job in 2014 in terms of achiev-ing high thermal efficiency and therefore

performance from the fixed fuel flow rate. The numbers speak for themselves: a reduction from 150kg to 100kg of race fuel; downsizing from a 2.4 litre V8 to a 1.6 litre V6 ICE; creating a package that was over 30% more efficient than its pre-decessor – all within a set of regulations that pushed reliability to the very limit”.

“It’s very much a case of evolution rather than revolution in 2015. Where last year was a case of ‘Can we do it?’ we are now faced with a different challenge – ’How do we improve it?’ Everybody has the opportunity to change a significant por-tion of the Power Unit for 2015 to further improve efficiency and, once again, performance”. “We’re all also pleased and excited to have another Power Unit manufacturer, Honda, joining Formula One. This is good news for the sport, for the competition, for the fans and for the automotive industry as a whole. We therefore offer them a warm welcome and wish them well. Also, we are very much enjoying working with our new partners at Lotus. They are a strong addition to our roster of partner teams and we look forward to working together in the seasons ahead”.

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Repair and fabrication specialists

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We take great pride working closely with our clients to produce the best outcome in manufacture of specialized products and repairs.

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DAVID WORTHY’S HD HOLDEN STORY SO FAR - 1965 to 2015

David with stepson Matt

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I was a one year old in nappies when my two HD’s were being made in South Australia. Now we are both in our 50’s

I have a HD X2 Premier sedan and a Panel van with X2 mechanicals and both cars are restored and are enjoyed.

I owned my first car, a HR with a HD front end with a HT grill at 18. As with most first cars, freedom and great times followed. Glad the car can’t talk because there are stories and memories just not right to tell.

Since then, I have always loved the art deco grace and simple straight lines of these models.

When lowered they look even better. To me, it’s a car that looks proportioned and great when viewed from any angle.

The X2 version is special as it is the first full produc-tion engine modified Holden sports or HSV vehicle produced. The HD is an often overlooked but unde-niably important Holden model in the special vehicle time line.

The 1964 EH had the S4 version but no engine mod’s and limited production.

The HD X2 had a re-profiled cam and re graphed distributor to suit, twin Stromberg carburetors and modified air cleaner on a re worked manifold, more durable bearings to handle the higher loading, fac-tory headers, X marked 179 engine block in “rocket” red, proper calibrated dash gauges for oil, coolant and AMPS and badging on the boot and grille. This version was available in any model on demand.

The HD is also the first Holden to have an alterna-

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tor, Girling disc brake option with VH power booster, curved side and back windscreen, full ball joint front suspension and a modern automatic transmission in the shape of the Powerglide. HD / HR front sub frames are still sought after for other early Holden hot rod modifications.

Much has been said about the car being unpopular, however, the HD has sold more models than any other car to date from any make in its first 14 months of release in Australia.

There is also the myth of HD abbreviating to ‘horribly designed’ and the HR as ‘hastily rectified’.

These vehicles were both styled in Detroit USA. The HR body style had been decided upon in Janu-ary 1964 a full 12 months before the HD release date.

In the early 80’s HD’s were cheap. A mate and I

were always buying one, driving it (thrashing it) for a few weeks, taking the parts we needed and if it was still saleable after our adventures, re selling it, usu-ally for $50.00 more than we paid.

X2 parts were the most prized and many could be removed from trashed cars at the Wanneroo tip where we found a free supply of car parts, ranging from 48-215 to HQ’s. That is a wild story in itself get-ting chased by the council and fat cops, usually at night, which was the only time we had.

During my apprenticeship as a mechanic in the mid 80’s, I restored a HD ute.

I ended up regretfully selling it after 4 years from pressure from my then girlfriend. I split with the girlfriend later and then had no car.

It was during the late 90’s I decided to look for a HD sedan, preferably an X2.

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I thought my chances would be slim and it would seem so after about six months of searching, how-ever, an ad appeared in the West Australian for the Panel Van. Although I wanted a sedan, It was too good to pass up. A year later, I found my Sedan advertised and rushed around to purchase the car first. I was lucky, the next day, the seller reckons he had over 60 calls.

The hardest part of restoring these cars has been proper storage and as always, funds and time. I enjoy driving them too much to have them off the road too long, which has prevented a full strip rebuild yet.

Both have been paneled and painted but at some stage, they both need a full strip and proper ground up restoration. Having them licensed and in

straight, clean condition allows me to enjoy them now and to look forward to the time that I can do a more deserving job. Luckily I have a stock of spares from many stripped and wrecked cars.

My other projects include a 1964 Ravan caravan which was made in WA at Rockeby Road, Subiaco and the HD Ute that I am yet to find.I think that a restoration project is what it means to the owner of the car.

The early days were a ‘do it yourself’ time. In a weekend, an old Holden could be lowered, fitted with a Yella Terra head, lumpier cam, twin or triple carbies and a set of extractors. There was no short-age of wheels and mags along with Speco shifters, tramp bars etc. I always enjoyed playing around with modifications. Now, twin exhaust pipes, mags

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and all the rest are ordered with the vehicle.

Sure, as vehicles become older and rarer, original-ity is a major factor to preserve the history but a lot of modifications have been done during their times to older cars. Some are tasteful and historical and some are very ugly. It’s all up to the individual.

We have all seen or witnessed the street car scene from the 70’s and 80’s, Monaro’s with Trans Am front ends & space ship like panel vans with disco interiors.

Both my cars have superficial modifications that can easily be reverted.The Premier has a Celica 5 speed manual, which I fitted after removing an M20, which was in the car from purchase. I’ll keep the floor shift as I like it.Jaguar twin fuel fillers are also a mod that I’ll keep.

The other running gear is X2 179 cui in both cars. I have fitted thermo fans, concealed behind the grill, and the air filter elements are modified.

For me, I am privileged to have two rare pieces of Australian motoring history, and the memories of fantastic and simpler times.

Thanks to my now partner who enjoys cruising in either HD and to Len Fretwell for giving me the op-portunity to tell the story.

Owner: David Worthy

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MATT FORBES 1957 CORVETTE ROADSTER DRAG CAR

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Matt Forbes is the Reigning Australian Super Gas champion and is running his new Lucas Oil Chevrolet ‘57 Corvette Roadster at 165 plus mph after its recent debut in Australia. WARR caught up with Matt recently for this exclusive interview.

WARR: Why did you get involved in drag rac-ing and how many drag cars have you had?

Matt Forbes: From an early age I was sur-rounded by hot rods, classics and more im-portantly to me, muscle cars. My interest was always directed toward the high performance factory cars of the late 60’s era. When I gained my driver’s license I progressed to quick street

cars and decided to race in a safe environment at Friday night street meets. I have had around 20 race cars.

WARR: What is the story behind choosing this particular Corvette, year and model for a drag car?

MF: I have always been a big fan of America’s favourite sports car” the Corvette and the C1 shape in particular. I really like the early shapes and a friend of mine raced this car very suc-cessfully in the Super Gas ranks in NHRA. I was offered the opportunity to purchase this car and I couldn’t say yes quickly enough. It’s a beautiful race car and brilliantly engineered.

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WARR: What are the mechanical specifica-tions, engine and running gear set up in your Corvette?

MF: The chassis is by Don Davis Race Cars, it has all Strange suspension and brake com-ponents, 4 link, anti-roll, fabricated 9” hous-ing, Strange Aluminium centre, Weld V series wheels, Hoosier tyres, MSD ignition, Autometer gauges and the running gear is a 598 cubic inch big block Chevrolet engine by Sunset Performance Racing Engines in Texas. The engine has all high quality components from Brodix, Dart, Callies, T&D, etc. and makes around 1100HP and the Powerglide top sports-man transmission and converter are from BTE.

WARR: How do you control the car when both front wheels leave the ground?

MF: In Super Gas, we have a “Pro Tree” so we have the ability to set the suspension up very aggressively so that we can strike the tyres hard and flip the wheels up out of starting line beams. Shortly after this event the throttle stop activates and controls the acceleration of the engine. At a predetermined time the engine goes back to wide open.

WARR: What were your best and worst expe-riences racing a drag car?

MF: The best experiences I would say would be winning my second Australian Super Gas Championship in 2014. It just capped a brilliant season and al lot had happened during that year. The first Championship win in 2013 felt amazing and as we had to win the Australian Nationals to secure the Championship and this was very gratifying, however the 2014 Cham-pionship holds some special memories for us. As far as worst experiences I have been very fortunate. I cannot recall a bad day of rac-ing! Certainly I have had disappointing races where things didn’t go as planned or I thought I could have performed better or made better decisions, but we have a great time and get to come back and try again.

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WARR: Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about getting involved in Drag Racing?

MF: Take the time to do your homework and research the class you wish to run. Purchase a car you can afford to run and set your goals and work hard. Most racers are more than happy to offer advice and guidance to anyone looking to get involved.

The people involved in the sport are just great. Drag racing can be very demanding and chal-lenging in many areas so be prepared. Make the time to enjoy the ride as it’s all about the journey, not just the destination and most impor-tantly surround yourself with good people, they can help when things are tough and celebrate with you when times are great.

WARR: Who are your sponsors and the people that have helped you with your car?

MF: My major sponsor is Lucas Oil Products. Founded by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas in 1989 with a simple philosophy “To produce the best line of lubricants and additives possible”. Today Lucas Oil Products are widely known as the industry leaders and are the choice for top motorsport teams all over the world. TEKNO Autosports in V8 Supercars, Richard Childress Racing in NASCAR, Morgan Lucas Racing in NHRA and a multitude of highly successful rac-ers across all motorsports. Sunset Performance Engines have been amazing, their product is second to none I have benefitted from their sup-port of my racing program. BTE racing trans-missions and converters have been assisting

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me for many years and Todd Barton Design keeps our team looking sharp.

There are many people that have assisted with my racing program. So many good people have had input and it is valued immensely. I am very fortunate and humbled to have such talented people to work with and bounce crazy ideas off. Jeff Pahlke (Aus), Tom Bogner (USA) and the team at Lucas Oil Products, Joe Jolly and Buddy Wood at Sunset Performance Engines, Bryan Robinson at BTE, Todd at Todd Barton Design, Les Waight, Graeme Stevens, Paul Shepherd, Paul Rogers, Gerald and Tom at Ve-racity Media and I would really like to express my gratitude to NHRA Super Class hitter Tom-my Phillips who has taken me on board and assisted my program in many areas, Tommy

has a wealth of experience and has taught me so much about the racing business.

WARR: What is your dream or wish for the future?

MF: My goal is to gain more knowledge and consistently improve in all aspects of my rac-ing activities. My dream for the future is to remain in a position to compete for many years to come, to race in some NHRA National and Divisional events and work within the racing industry. I aspire to be the best I can be and really enjoy the ride, we always have a great time. See you at the races!

OWNER/DRIVER: Matt Forbes

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MIKAELA WILLIGENWARR Cover Model

Interests: I love scuba diving, camping and four wheel driving. I have a love for the ocean and am currently completing a double degree in science and business. I absolutely love my fitness, you will find me in the gym at least 4 times a week. I competed in gymnastics my whole life and am in love with the sport.

Ideal Man: My ideal man would be no knight in shining armour, I’m all about the personality to me good looks are

just a bonus. Not going to lie I love a guy with filthy hair, who smells amazing. He has to be adventurous, caring and

have a great sense of humour. As long as he’s positive and knows how to put a smile on my face then he’s ideal.

Photo Shoots: Within the last few months I have done multiple photo shoots all working toward building my portfo-lio. Words cannot explain how much fun I have had during the shoots, both through Perth Modelling Academy and for WARR Magazine. I would love to do an implied nudity shoot, as I think it would be really interesting and creative.

Modelling Experience: I’m only new to the industry and started modelling in January this year. I am currently completing a modelling course through Perth Modelling academy, in which I have completed multiple photo shoots. I found Crazy Sexy Cool at the beginning of 2015 and com-

pete in their bikini competitions almost every week! It is only the beginning for me and already I’m in love.

People to thank: A special thanks to Kellie Germain for all your support and for introducing me to Len Fretwell and Craig Eccles, giving me an amazing opportunity to shoot for WARR Magazine. I would like to show my appreciation to Charlotte Munoz, Michaela Maher and the Crazy Sexy Cool family. I would most of all like to thank my older sister Maddy Willigen and mum and dad as I wouldn’t have made it this far without you.

Name: Mikaela Willigen Age: 18Email: [email protected]: mikaelajane_96Hair Colour: BlondeEye Colour: GreenHeight: 162cmShoe Size: 6

1957 CHEVROLET PILLARLESS COUPE

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1957 CHEVROLET PILLARLESS COUPE

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The 1957 Chevrolet is among the most recognizable American cars of all time and well maintained and restored examples, especially Sport Coupes and Convertibles are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

The 1957 Chevrolet’s are roomy, tastefully restrained with period use of tail fins and

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chrome. In 1957, a second Turboglide automatic transmission was an option. In 1958, Chevrolet models were redesigned longer, lower, and heavier than their 1957 predecessors.

Joe Italiano bought this rare, classic 1957 Chevrolet pillarless 210 model coupe as a finished project from Tony Mattioli who spent nearly ten years building it. There is 454 big block under the bonnet bolted to a turbo 400 transmission with a 9 inch diff.

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This is an original car that has been com-pletely restored, even the seats have been resprung and have been painted the same colour as the car.

This beautiful example won the people’s choice for six-years running at Car Shows here in Perth and it made top 10 at Motorva-tion for the last two-years.

Chevrolet made a lot less pillarless coupes than they made the Belair models, so this is a pretty rare car in this condition. The pictures tell the story.

Owner: Joe Italiano

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REGAL & BELOIT R&D ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE PROTOTYPE

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REGAL & BELOIT R&D ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE PROTOTYPE

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WARR came across new electric motor technol-ogy fitted to a R&D Electric Motorcycle Prototype while visiting the Regal Beloit stand at the recent AOG conference in Perth, WA. Thankfully, Regal Beloit Australia supplied us with the information for this feature.

Regal’s axial flux motor technology DEC Star’s™ electromechanical design configuration is truly revolutionary and will facilitate some exciting advancements. DEC Star’s™ new design Ap-plications include:• Gas furnace • Air conditioning / fan coil unit • Clean rooms • Biological cabinets • General ventilation. Its shaft-less rotor system

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allows the impeller to be hub-less and benefits of the DEC Star™ include: • Improved system ef-ficiency • Compact design reduces shipping and warehousing costs • Reduced total unit weight of up to 3.6kg or 33% and has been fitted into a motorcycle for demonstration purposes.

ABOUT THE BIKE

This 2002 Yamaha R1 model bike was pur-chased 2nd hand. Readings were 130hp output, specs as new approximately 156hp and Regal are aiming for 100hp.

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The bike painting was done in-house @ Rowville and when the project is complete, Regal will take it to a track for a spin. The finished specifications will be enough to qualify officially for races.

The idea for the project is to show-case our broad capabilities and our specialist engineering team, thinking outside the box.

Company contributions; Marathon to supply the motor, OBA to sup-ply bike battery box and electrical board, cabling and contacts and Sankey to do the machining, paint-ing capabilities in-house.

Regal Beloit Australia is a leading manufacturer and distributor of electro mechanical, power trans-mission, speed control systems and air systems.

The motorcycle featured in this article is an R&D prototype used to demonstrate new Regal Beloit Australia electric motor technology.

Please Note: Regal Beloit Austral-ia do not manufacture, distribute or sell electric motorcycles.

For more information go to;

www.regalaustralia.com.au

And

www.regalbeloit.com

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SUBSCRIBE TO WARR MAGAZINE TODAY!Subscribe for 12-Months to make sure you get all four quarterly edition printed copies of WARR Magazine delivered to your door, anywhere within Australia.

ONLY $38.00Including GST and Postage within Australia

WARR MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM

Post this Form with Payment to: WARR MAGAZINE Subscriptions Department Level 28, 140 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000

Name:......................................................................................................................................

Address:...................................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................Postcode:......................................

Phone Number:.................................. E-mail:......................................................................... $39.60 Payment by: Cheque Money Order Made Payable to: WARR MAGAZINE

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 1

July - September 2014 - ISSUE 1

AUTOMOTIVE & MARINE

WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU

April-June 2015 - ISSUE 4

INSIDE THIS ISSUEAUSTRALIAN F1 GRAND PRIX FEATURE

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST JET QUAD BIKE

50TH SOUTHERN 80 SKI BOAT RACE

MOTORVATION 29 GRAND CHAMPION 2015 WINNING HOT ROD

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WARR MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM

2015 Race Winner - Team Hellrazor

CLUB MARINE SOUTHERN 80 SKI BOAT RACE

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This year the Moama Water Sports Club marked the 50TH Anniversary of the Club Marine Southern 80. The Southern 80 is the biggest water ski race in the world held each second Sunday in February on the Murray River at Echuca / Moama.

There were over 550 entries comprising of over 300 boats and 1200 competitors. The boats tow 2 ski-

ers over the 80km course comprising of 124 bends and for some at speeds in excess of 150 km per hour. This spectacular ski race is renowned as the toughest endurance water ski race. It brings competitors and spectators from around Australia and abroad.

Every competitor is keen to test themselves against the best in the business for the prestige of winning

Team Sapphire Racing

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/ finishing such a gruelling event. As the picture perfect tranquillity of the mighty Murray River is overrun by the roar of boats hitting speeds of up to 150km/h, don’t be fooled, these competitors crave the adrenalin rush that comes with travelling down the Mighty Murray river at speed.

Congratulations to the team of team of Hellrazor who

won the 2015 Club Marine Southern 80 in a record time of 29:43.22 with Mark Cranny driver Damien Matthews, observer and amazing skiers Jason Walmsley & Peter Proctor.

The 2016 Club Marine Southern 80 is on the 12th, 13th & 14th of February, 2016.

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Images: Michelle Porobic

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2015 MURRAY

AUTO XTRAVAGANZA

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2015 MURRAY

AUTO XTRAVAGANZA WWW.RACEANDRESTORE.COM.AU April - June 2015 79

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The Murray Auto Xtravaganza (MAX) was the brainchild of former Murray Shire President, Mr Noel Nancarrow and is held annually on the lush green football ground of the Sir Ross McLarty Oval in Pinjarra.

A wide range of vehicles entered this 2015 event including classic customs, hot rods, street ma-chines, vintage, drag cars and motorbikes. This event also included the W.A. Monaro State Titles.

The event coordinator, Richie Howlett invited WARR to this year’s Easter event and we have includ-ed pics of some of the entrant vehicles in this feature.

This is a great family day, the next Murray Auto Xtravaganza will be held on the 3rd of April, 2016.

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MechBro Australia has been set up to respond to the demand for Heavy Duty Diesel Mechanics and Fitters involved in the repair, maintenance and servicing of earthmoving, mining and transport equipment as well as light vehicles.

OFFICE & WORKSHOP 49 Candlewood Boulevard, Joondalup 6027

Tel: (08) 9300 3135 Fax: (08) 9300 3236

Email: [email protected]

For more info, contact Mark Nielsen Mobile: 0438 005 655 www.mechbro.com.au

OUR PEOPLEWhether it be a civil or mining project,every person on our team knowsthat to keep plant operating meansproductivity. We work hard and useour heads! As a collective, our teamof highly skilled mechanics diagnose,repair and maintain a wide varietyof plant and equipment, dozers,excavators, graders, scrapers, profilers,dump trucks, bobcats, heavy haulageroad transport, etc.

Our team has the experience,qualifications and equipment to workon all aspects of these machines includingengine rebuilds, hydraulics, track andframe, electrics and air conditioning on all brands, including, but not limitedto; CAT, Hitachi, Komatsu, Terex, O&K,Volvo, Bell, Vermeer, Cummins.

As a team of mechanics, fitters,servicemen and fabricators we keepmachines going, as well as being involvedin site mobilization where we establishcontainerized workshops complete withdomes and commission machinery readyfor operation. Upon project completionwe demobilize workshops and plantand are often the last to leave site.

Throughout a project we are able tomanage all parts ordering and delivery,including urgent hot shots. Our tilt traycan pick up and deliver parts and 20’containers up to 8.5T.

WHERE WE’VE WORKEDDuring the last 18 months we’veworked at many major mine sitesowned by BHPB, RIO, FMG, SandfireResources and more recently OnslowQuarry. Our people understand therigorous requirements of working onthese sites and act accordingly.

SAFETY FIRSTOur aim is to conduct our businessusing systems and practices which willensure that our workforce and thecommunity are protected from injuryand harm. Safety and productivity gohand in hand with our people workingas problem solvers to get the job done.

WORKSHOP & ONSITE SERVICEWe have the equipment and thefacilities to service your machineryand vehicles. We will also investin our business and tailor to yourrequirements.

REFRIGERENT TRADINGAUTHORISATIONMechBro has the capability andauthorisation to repair your airconditioning units.

MACHINERY AND VEHICLE HIREMechbro can provide a variety ofmachinery and vehicles to suit yourneeds. MechBro currently have 6 minespecified service vehicles supportedby a tilt tray truck capable of loadingand unloading 20’sea containers andmoving items of plant up to 8 Tonne.

Having established MechBro Pty Ltdon May 9th, 2011 with 2 mechanics wehave experienced rapid growth and nowhave a great team of mechanics andservicemen. In 2012 we also acquireda light vehicle workshop in Joondalup.Within the next 12 months we will beestablishing a heavy duty workshopwhere we can service, repair and storelarger equipment.

Our business is based in Perth and also services regional areas, including the Pilbara. Our people are highly skilledand motivated to provide the highest level of service to companies throughout Western Australia. With a fleet ofmine specified and fully equipped service utilities, we are unique in that we are not simply a labour hire company.Because with MechBro you don’t just get a capable individual, you get the strength of our entire team! MechBro’steam of mechanics and fitters are committed to the economic success of our customers. And so, before joining us,must demonstrate they possess the passion, skills and attitude required to satisfy our customers. Accordingly, webelieve this set of values will help to ensure the mutual economic success of all parties.

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Auto One - Environmental Graphics Dec '02

Colours are reference only and not true unless specified. Final colours may vary on printed article.

©The contents of this artwork (both physical and intellectual) remain the property of the owner, Saunders Creative P/L, 119 Alexander street Crows Nest Australia 2065.

This artwork cannot be copied, photocopied or reproduced in any manner without the owner's prior written permission.

Planogram - High Watermark Category 1&2

1a. High Watermark

1b. High Watermark

1c. High Watermark

1d. High Watermark

1e. High Watermark

1f. High Watermark

2. High Watermark

2a. High Watermark

2b. High Watermark

2c. High Watermark

2d. High Watermark

2e. High Watermark

example shown 2a &1f

LOCALLY RUN&

LOCALLY OWNED

Not only do Auto One have a huge range, they are run by the most knowledgable staff in the business.

With competitive pricing and everything from bumper to bumper plus A1 Club for everyday special prices and advanced catalogue releases, it’s your one stop shop!

FIND YOUR NEAREST WA OUTLET AT WWW.AUTOONE.COM.AU

A C C E S S O R I E S

S PA R E PA R T S

P E R F O R M A N C E

C A R C A R E

PA I N T


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