Download - Polishers Rag January 2010

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DARLING DOWNS VETERAN & VINTAGE MOTOR CLUB ~ Celebrating 40 Years ~ The Polishers Rag ~ 1

January 2010Dedicated to the life-long enjoyment of historic vehicles by enthusiasts on the Darling Downs

Michael & Sue Wells’ 1957 Austin A95 Westminster gets into theChristmas festive spirit along with Jeff & Ann Cox’s 29 Whippet.

Best Decorated Car winners are the McKeivers. Showing off their mobile Christmas tree are Brad & Cherryl, with Mitch and Lauren.

Management Committee 2009-2010

President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kevin McGrathPh: 07 4636 3760 Mob: 0407 627 751 Email: [email protected]

Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brad McKeiverPh: 07 4630 7204 Mob: 0488 706 833Email: [email protected]

Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Leonie HamPh: 07 4633 5486 Mob: 0407 099 064Email: [email protected]

Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mike RichardsPh: 07 4697 9150 Mob: 0408 732 368Email: [email protected]

Dating Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ken ForsterPh: 07 4630 0807 Mob: 0428 300 807

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jeff Brown Ph: 07 4613 6706 Mob: 0403 454 332 Email: [email protected]

Property Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Des Ham Ph: 07 4633 5486 Mob: 0407 099 064Email: [email protected]

Rally Director team . . . . . .Michael & Sue Wells Ph: 07 4615 2042 Mob: 0429 066 655 Email: [email protected]

Librarian . . . . . . . . . .Brad & Mitchell McKeiver Ph: 07 4630 7204 Mob: 0488 706 833Email: [email protected]

Workshop Supervisor . . . . . . . .Peter DonovanPh: 07 4630 7326 Mob: 0408 307 666 Email: [email protected]

Membership Officer . . . . . . . . . . . .John O’HaraPh: 07 4632 8855

Swap Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rick A’BellPh: 07 4613 6611 Mob: 0429 456 567

Historian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brian TimmsPh: 07 4630 0048Email: [email protected]

Combined Council RepsRick A’Bell, Leo Ryan.

Web site:www.toowoombaswap.comMeetings: Visitors WelcomeMeetings are held on the second Thursday of each month in theDDVVMC Clubrooms, 2 Rocla Court, Toowoomba.

Mailing address:DDVVMC, PO Box 486, Toowoomba Qld 4350Clubroom Ph: 07 4633 3181

Next General Meeting:7.30pm Thursday, January 14, 2010

Next Management Committee Meeting7.30pm, Monday, January 11, 2010

WorkshopWorkshop open Monday nights from (approx) 7pm to 9pm andWednesday afternoon 2 til 5.

Indoor bowlsCheck with Ted Taylor 4632 2565 for 2009 dates!

Next newsletter closing date January 23, 2010

2 ~ The Polishers Rag ~ Celebrating 40 Years ~ DARLING DOWNS VETERAN & VINTAGE MOTOR CLUB

T O O W O O M B A S WA P 2 0 1 0

For magazine contributions: Email: [email protected] Box 243, Southtown Qld 4350.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH“I was born with nothing and I still have most of it left”. —Keith Hoffman

Celebrating our Fortieth Year...This May our club will celebrate its fortieth anniversary. In 1970,I had just finished high school and was beginning a teachingcareer. At the time, I didn’t have much interest in old cars but wasitching to get a vehicle of my own. I had done some holiday workas a service station attendant and accumulated about $150. MyMark II Zephyr cost $160 and was the greatest piece of junkaround. Everything went wrong and I became a backyardmechanic unintentionally. Five years later, I had purchased myfirst 28 Chev.Cars were easy to obtain in those times and they were very cheapas well. Lots of blokes had the bug much earlier than I did and therestoration of veteran and vintage cars became quite fashionable.For a man with some practical skills, restoring an old car was anachievable task and even though it cost a bit to do up a car,everyone’s expectation of a good restoration was probably lowerthan currently. Also the importance of doing most of the workyourself was considered important.Some of the guys from this area joined the Veteran Car Club inBrisbane and travelled to meetings for many years. By 1970, thesemen and a number of others decided to place an advertisementin the local newspapers and the first meeting of the new club tookplace at Laurel Bank Park hall in May 1970.Brian Timms and I have been asked to write a history of the firstforty years and some progress has been made. Bill Fischer hasgiven me some old newspaper clippings and I have had a chatwith Col Baker and Ray Poulton. I have been gradually readingearly editions of the Polishers Rag and most of the informationobtained so far has come from that source. Anybody who hasinformation, early photos or anything of that nature would bemost welcome to make a contribution.More importantly, what is the club going to do to celebrate thismilestone? For our twenty-fifth anniversary, we had a week longhub rally. The new function room was opened at the thirtieth andmany past members were invited. The Longreach rally and adinner marked the thirty-fifth anniversary. We need to beginmaking some decisions very soon. So far, one member hassuggested a car show but whatever we do, I think it’s mostimportant that we involve as many members, both present andpast, as we possibly can.

Pat Murphy


C LU B N E W S

Christmas has come and gone and has different meanings fordifferent people. I hope every family used it as an opportunity toheal any old wounds in the family and to draw closer together asa family.The new year is rushing towards us and we might reflect how wewent in 2009 and what are our expectations and aspirations for2010. I hope it will be a happy one for you and your loved onesand an especially joyous one for your travelling, whatever modeyou use.For our club, it will be a great year with first and foremost ourannual SWAP 5-6th Feb. I urge everyone to get behind Rick andgive him our utmost support. Rick and Nerida have been workingALL YEAR for us on this event and need and deserve our help. Ifyou are already doing something, could you do more? Phone himnow and offer more.Then it is on to our 40th celebrations and ideas for celebratingthis milestone are still welcome. Let us know what you want.With new equipment in the function room, the opportunities toenjoy ourselves is greatly enhanced. If you or your family are notfamiliar with it, then ask Glen to demonstrate it to you.Likewise, the workshop is lifted to a new level. Peter has boughtnew tools and equipment for your use and enjoyment. Pay a visitthere, women as well as men, and ask Peter to show you how youcan benefit from all this.The Committee works for you and for your greater enjoyment ofbeing a club member. Why not use it all to your personaladvantage? Happy motoring for 2010.

KevinRestoration Tips for TodayReplacement Primer for Spies HeckerMy favourite restoration primer, Spies Hecker red brown primeris no longer available. Alan Olive, the paint rep from ToowoombaHolden has recommended a good as or better replacement firstapplication primer.Dupont Epoxy Primer 840R & 845R Hardner. It offers excellentcorrosion resistance and adhesion. Can be repaired over withbody fillers after sanding with 80 grit paper.Toowoomba Holden sells this product for $128.72 +GST 4 lt andhardner $34.61 +GST for 1 lt. Other epoxy primers are availablefrom other auto paint suppliers.This primer is ideal for applying after the panel has been paintstripped & rust treated. Then stored for finish primer and paint.Ordinary primers are porous and will allow moisture to penetrateand rust the panel.It's too bad the people who really know how to run the countryspendall their time restoring old cars.Thank You, Bob Chapman

Reflections by PresidentKevin

McGrath

< IMPORTANT >Toowoomba SwapPREPARATIONS

Swap Booking OfficeTraining Night

7pm at Club rooms, Wednesday, Jan 20

If you’re involved in the booking office during theswap, this training night is important. Please attend.

Gate Procedures Training Night

7pm at Club rooms, Thursday, Jan 21.

If you’re involved in any of the gate teams duringthe swap, this training night is very important.Please attend.

BYO BBQ & MovieNight at Clubhouse

Welcome to the clubs first of many movie nights

On Friday Jan 22, 1st movie starts at 7.30pm with the first weekof The Mickey Mouse Club. After Interval [supper] thenChangeling , set in 1928 through to 1935. Members who would like to dine early can arrive at 6pm and theBBQ will be available as a BYO [you bring and you cook].To make catering easy, could members please bring a small plateof nibblies (remember the jaffers) for interval. The club fridgewill be open for drinks purchase and tea and coffee available allnight.

Hope to see you all.


D D V V M C M A N A G E M E N T M E E T I N G ~ D E C E M B E R 7 , 2 0 0 9

Meeting opened by Kevin McGrath at 7.30pm.

Present.

M. Wells, J. O’Hara, P. Donovan, B. Timms, D. Ham, L. Ham, MMcKeiver, L. Ryan, B. McKeiver, K. Forster.

Apologies: J. Brown, R. A’Bell, M. Richards

Visitors: Jeff & Ann Cox, G. Wilkinson.

Minutes: Moved K. Forster, sec. J. O’Hara

Business Arising From Minutes:

(1) P. Donovan queried when audio-visual equipment purchased.

(2) Question re. progress of enhanced software for Swapbookings. Kevin to follow up.

(3) Glen Hoey has kindly donated a photocopier.

(4) Cheques to nominated charities to be sent this calendar year.

Treasurers Report:

Moved L. Ham sec. K. Forster.

Correspondence:

(1) Magazines

(2) Rallies 2010

(3) Accounts

(4) Letter from Combined Council advising minutes available onwebsite.

(5) Cheque from L. Kennedy for $110 to pay for ad in ”Rag”

(6) B. Brown advertising grandfather’s car parts for sale.L. Ham moved that correspondence be received and outwardendorsed. Sec. M. Wells.

Property Officer:

Des reported that the original hot water urn was repaired byAnthony Coney. A minor problem for which Anthony made nocharge. Des will refill drinks fridge in preparation for Xmasluncheon.

Historian;

Brian reported that John Clement will meet members atworkshop Wed 16 Dec to discuss compiling historical documents.

Rallies:

Mike reported. 13th Dec. Rally followed by Xmas luncheon.

Membership: Nil.

Dating: Nil

Librarian:

Photocopier donated. Mitch will make an instruction sheet toplace near copier.

Editor: Nil

Workshop:

Tidying of workshop continues. Peter expressed concern at themisuse of workshop tools and equipment. Please do not use thelathe and associated tools unless experienced. Other memberswill be able to help you who do have the required expertise . Peterhas now bought new lathe and other tools. Of $2000 allocated$1600 has been spent.

Swap: There was no official report.

General Business:

(1) Kevin discussed article in Chronicle re. driving simulator.Owner will allow it to be used at Swap if members wish.

(2) The providors, Jeff & Ann, Nerida & Sue were invited to attendthe management meetings if they wish to and their busy livesallow.

(3) George Wilkinson addressed the meeting on his suggestionsfor budget with a view to reducing subs. Kevin thankedGeorge for his time and interest. The concensus was that nochange is manageable at this time.

There being no further business meeting closed at 9.25pm.

Secretary: Leonie Ham President: Kevin McGrath

Rotary BBQ among carsexcites fond memories

The Rotory BBQ went off well. The Rotary people set up theirmobile BBQ trailer near the workshop and cooked steaks andsausages supplied with salad and bread rolls. It was very well setup. We had the meal in the club rooms and afterwards the clubsupplied the sweets.The rotary club were very impressed with the clubrooms andworkshop.There were about 14 or 15 members cars on display and theRotary people had a look over the cars. For many, this boughtback fond memories.

Michael Wells ~ Rally Director


D D V V M C G E N E R A L M E E T I N G ~ D E C E M B E R 1 0 , 2 0 0 9

Meeting opened at 7.30pm by Kevin McGrath. Attendance as per book.

Apologies:

B. Forster, M. Richards, C. Baker, J. O’Meara, D. McLucas, A. Waite,J. Brown.

Visitors: Simon Eldridge

Minutes:

Minutes as read be accepted moved G. Allum sec. Bob Chapman.Business arising from Minutes: Nil

Correspondence:

Magazines; Accounts

Rallies: Buick Autospectacular 18/4/10

Motorclassica: 23/24 Oct. 2010

Car Display: McLean’s Bridge 9/5/10

Marburg Show 1/5/10

Northern Rivers Lismore 15-21 Aug 2010Moved that correspondence be accepted L. Ham sec. J. O’Hara

Treasurers Report:

In Mike’s absence, sec read his report. Moved L. Ham sec R.Donovan.

Dating Officer: Nil

Editor: Nil

Property Officer:

Hot water urn repaired by A. Coney at no cost. Drinks fridge tobe restocked for Xmas lunch.

Rally Director:

Christmas Rally 13th Dec Rally to local Winery including sampletasting. Morning tea (Xmas treats) provided by members at Clubbefore departing. On return Luncheon served in Clubrooms.Members purchase own drinks from Club fridge.

Librarian:

Photocopier donated by Glen Hoey. Applause to showappreciation and vote of thanks.

Workshop Supervisor:

Peter requested that members show more care when using latheand club tools. Inexperienced operators should not use lathe.Peter showed a donated gasket and accompanying historic letter.Working party of willing members to meet at Darren McLucas onMonday evening to assist with trailer repairs.

Membership Officer: Nil

Historian:

Brian reported that John Clement will attend the workshop nextWed and would like to meet members to discuss the compiling ofhistorical book.

Combined Council:

Rick reported concerns about E10 fuel usage in Club Cars. Rallyfor Combined Council in 2011 is in Toowoomba. Minutes frommeetings may be accessed on their website

Swap Organizer:

Rick thanked members who assisted to prepare Swap mail onMonday evening. Denise reported bookings have slowed buthistorically pick up in January.

Show & Tell

(1) Bob Chapman gave an interesting talk on two tools he had tosand down large areas on vehicles prior to spraying. Bob willbring it to Monday night’s workshop.

(2) Ken Forster showed his recently purchased Buick Mascot,which was in very fine condition.

(3) Len Kennedy displayed a waterless car washing kit. Thisaccompanies the purchase of any 2 Michelin tyres fromGarden City Tyres.

General Business:

Ray Poulton thanked the Club for hospitality shown to Rotarians.Ray suggested that date for 40th Anniversary celebrations bechanged from 13th to 20th May, 2010. Ray outlined some ideas forthe event.Bob Chapman queried why wristbands had been abolishedbecause sponsors had thought cost prohibitive for them. Bob gavecosts of paper wrist bands. Rick reported that stamps had alreadybeen ordered.Ann Cox voiced her disappointment at the numbers for ourHarvest Rally.Ann will have a springclean of the kitchenMoved L. Ham sec Pat Murphy that rolls of foil left over from Swapcatering be given to Ann to use for Club catering.Jeff Cox thanked Club for dinner voucher in appreciation of theiruntiring work. Jeff requested members to help with Club clean upat conclusion of supper.Graham Allum gave answers to Quiz.There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.50pm.

Secretary: Leonie Ham President: Kevin McGrath

40th AnniversaryDDVVMC Year

Book... anyone?I’m considering putting together a year book that wouldfeature a separate page for every current memberincluding a short, personal history plus at least onemain vehicle photo.The book would also include a club history and at leasta President's message with additional material and pagesfeaturing as many founding members as possible. Cost of books would be entirely based on orders.To do this and lessen the workload, I would need ashort personal history from every current member — noexceptions (or there is no point to it being a year book),plus images of themselves and their cars.Details still need to be finalised but I would like anindicator of support for this venture by next meeting.Please give it some thought. It would be a valuablehistorical document in years to come.

Thanks, Jeff Brown


C H R I S T M A S ‘ V I N TA G E ’ R A L LY

The Christmas rally was very well supported with over 80 peopleturning up in 34 or so cars. The clubrooms were festooned andthe tables decorated for Christmas as well. Morning tea was supplied by the people who brought along aplate to share. There was a great selection of tasty treats to choosefrom.After morning tea was over, the rally sheets were given out andthose members who had come along in their moderns found aseat in one of the older cars and we all set off for Wedgetail RidgeEstate Winery, via Kingsthorpe. The cars made their way out viathe quiet back roads. With hardly any other traffic or breakdowns,it was a very pleasant drive. When we arrived at the winery wefilled their car park with our cars. The spread of vintage to classicswere a sight to be seen.We were welcomed by owner Susanne who then described thedifferent style and types of wine they have on offer. Tasting over,we had the chance to buy the wine we had sampled. Manymembers did buy a bottle or three and a mixed carton or two wasalso seen being loaded into some cars.We then set off back to the clubrooms over the same way we cameout on and again no breakdowns, however a certain Chev wasseen struggling up a hill — maybe a little overloaded with thewine they had bought.Back at the club rooms a Christmas carol quiz sheet was givenout. It was easy — all you had to do was write the name of thecarols on the sheet. Even though they were in cryptic word form,most got the 25 right. There are some very smart people in theclub.

Lunch was now ready and everybody helped themselves to thedelicious Christmas fare set out for us. Seconds were called forand that got rid of the leftovers.Between lunch and dessert, the lucky spots were given out alongwith the answers for the quiz, and the winners presented withtheir prizes. Sweets were now ready and again a great selection,from icecream with jelly to fruit cake, were on offer to us.After the sweets first prize for the best decorated car was awardedto the McKeiver family for their 1929 Chev tourer, with the 1940Chevrolet sedan of Jeff and Ann Cox taking second place.The day drew to a close and people started to get ready to go bywishing each other a Merry christmas and a Happy New Year.All-in-all another well supported rally.May I again say thankyou to everybody who helped on the day.Whether you did a big or small job, on the day it all helps. Thanksalso to Ann Cox and Sue Wells who got the bulk of the food forthe day and all their preparation for the day.See you all in the New Year.

Next RallyJanuary 26: Highfields Pioneer Village

This year we will pay a visit to the Pioneer Village at Highfields.Lots of displays to look at as well as the grand parade. You maywant to be part of this or just sit back and watch. Morecomplete details to follow.

Till the next rally, stay safe.

Michael & Sue Wells: — Rally Directors

What would aDDVVMCChristmas lunchbe without acompetitive quiz?If you wanted toproceed todessert, brainshad to beengaged... again.Obviously, DeniseKlein (aided by afull ChristmasJoy), Del Fischerand Glen Hoeywere the sharpeston the day.Congratulations.

Christmas ‘Vintage’ Rally drops in onWedgetail Ridge Estate Winery



Ford V8s — Chappie and Marion’s 1957 FairlaneVictoria with Geoff and Lindi Voll’s 1966 Mustang.

Another Ford V8. The Pascoe Customline engine seems tobe nearly hidden below a mile of wiring, but it does thejob with a hearty sound — pure music to Ford lovers.

Michael Wells flags away from the clubhouse JamesMeara with co-driver Eliza in the 1928 Essex.

The ‘Super (reliable) Six’ of the trusty 1928 Meara Essex.

A quiet, reflective morning tea is taken by the men onthe clubhouse verandah, served up by the women, justbefore heading off on the dangerous mission toWedgetail Winery. They’re taking wives to a wine cellar,armed with credit cards and full of Christmas cheer.

Rick and Nerida make a grand entrance up the graveldrive to Wedgetail Winery in their 55 PlymouthBelevedere.



Right: What better way to fully enjoy a ‘vintage drop’ —touring the vineyards ‘top down’ in a 1927 vintageBuick — it all makes a fantastic ‘wind-in-your-hair day.

Above: Most rallies don’t generate this amount of keeninterest from the rally participants... must be talkingcars. However, one has to wonder at the large, vacantspace between the bar/counter with it’s polished glassesand invitingly full bottles and the rallying crowd.

Just some of the rally cars adding serious classic status to the Wedgetail Ridge Estate Winery car park.



President Kevin McGrath again leads by example,leaning on the bar, wallet in hand, bottles at the ready.

Rob Callow, after consuming a Fanta, a Coke and nowcradling a glass of something (knowing he should nevermix his drinks), settles heavily on the table whileregailing a young Mitch with fascinating stories of hismisspent motoring past.

In spite of convivial friends and common interests — alltalk ends when Christmas lunch gets serious attention.

Back at the clubhouse, Brad, Lauren and CherrylMcKeiver prepare for the festive Christmas lunch.

Hayley thoughtfully and cautiously sips her first everglass of vino under Rob Callow’s stern eye — herdiscerning, teetotaling (and doting) grandfather.

Appearing from nowhere, and disappearing just asquickly, was this dog — perhaps it’s the ‘Wedgetail’.

Economy Runs were another light attraction which attracted quitelarge fields of enthusiastic drivers, and while treating theovernighter to Lismore as a bit of a fun weekend, Zac and Zimmanaged to return the best results in their class driving a FordCortina. It was then that Stan revealed knowledge of pyrotechnicshitherto unknown, as several competitors ambling along the NewEngland Highway had more than six month’s growth frightenedout of them by a dirty big bunger landing under their frontwheels, or as one poor unfortunate driver of a ute nearly hadapoplexy when a bunger exploded in the well of the ute – all bycourtesy of Mr Zac. He even had poor Fred Berge (then Secretaryof the Warwick Car Club) losing several hairs from his alreadythinning pate when an extra giant bunger was rolled under thetoilet door in which Fred was reposing peacefully contemplatingthe surroundings. During all these activities, the pair also had time to squeeze inseveral appearances on local Channel Ten television to representthe auto Club in a quiz show, a contest between teamsrepresenting various sporting bodies on the Downs. It was anelimination type of competition, with the loser each nightdropping out and the winner going on to the next round, untilthe final night. Compere Mick Teys asked each team a set of questions on itsparticular sport, then a set on general knowledge, and Zachandled the questions on motor sport, while Zim handled themuch harder general knowledge ones! Of course, when Mick Teysasked Zac for a handy reference book from which he could pickquestions on motor sport, the old master thoughtfully suggesteda reference book of which he already had a copy. Meanwhile, motor sport in general was booming in Australia, withgreat public interest being shown in the Round Australia trialswhich were going thing in the late fifties – Redex Trials, whichthen became Ampol Trials, and so on. Right from the inception of these important national events, theT.A.C. was entrusted with manning the control whenever theroute came through Toowoomba or in the immediate vicinity. Thehighlight of these perhaps was the one which had an overnightstop in Toowoomba, and the control was at the old Toowoomba

showgrounds in Campbell Street, and here theClub played host to “Gelignite Jack” Murray, JackDavey (at that time one of Australia’s mostfamous radio and TV stars) and “Granny”Murray who piloted her immaculate Rolls Royceall the way around the very difficult route withher all-girl crew. Over the years Toowoomba drivers were wellrepresented in these “Reliability” Trials, withthen Mayor Jack McCafferty and fellowcouncillor Jack Scott, Local master builder CamBrown with Allan Lawson (who had themisfortune to roll their vehicle up nearKingaroy, forcing their retirement), andprominent local businessman and racing driverJohn McKinney, and the redoubtable LackBrothers from Felton, who trained assiduouslyfor months, staying awake for long hours anddriving prodigious distances to prepare themfor the event, and when the cars reachedTownsville where they had a twelve hour lay-over, the two brothers made a comfortable bedunder their car, but woke to find the team had

left several hours previously – they had overslept!After the Leyburn airstrip closed to racing in the mid fifties, thesearch was on again for a suitable circuit, and it was about thistime that the Council had made a sealed sweep in the road outnear the Toowoomba Golf Course, from Stenner into MackenzieStreet.

Local MGTF driver Allan Wickham happened to drive along thatway one day and could hardly wait to hot foot it into Stan tosuggest he hurry out and look at the Club’s new circuit. Of course,it wasn’t as easy as all that, but again Stan just happened to knowthe right people. This time Mayor Jack McCafferty, who just happened to be aschoolmate of Stan’s, a little lobbying of some local councillors,and the Middle Ridge Circuit came into being. Alderley Street,right into Rowbotham Street, hard right around a short little “S”into Stenner Street, then into virtually become one big longstraight, utilising the sweep which went from Stenner intoMackenzie Street, a circuit distance of 2.8 miles.


A S I T H A P P E N E D . . .

THE SAGA OF ZAC AND ZIMStan Mossetter (Zac) and Kev Zimmerle (Zim)

by K J Zimmerle

Zac’s last car and fastest of all — 256kph Cooper Climax.

Stan and mechanic ‘Beau’ leaving for Bathurst. Mk 10 Jaguar towing theRizzo Riley.

Again through Stan’s connections in national motoring circles, thefirst meeting saw the guest appearance of Canberra’s Alex Mildrenin his very speedy Cooper Maserati, and the second meeting sawwell known Sydney motor tycoon Arnold Class bring his fiery redMaserati open wheeler up to do battle with the circuit, rated bymany as one of the fastest in Australia at the time. Of course, local drivers were quick to get in on the act – Forddealer Edsel Falconer, the Griffiths’ (Arthur, David and Bunty),John McKinney, Jimmy Barron and Bill Greenwood, Ernie Tadgellof Sabacat fame (this very fast open-wheeler was powered by anaircraft engine), John Gibbings, “Beau” Mossetter, and others.Regrettably, only three meetings were held on the Middle Ridgecircuit before the build up of houses made it impractical tocontinue, so once again the search was on. A couple of temporaryvenues were used to provide outlets for the local drivers, such asPicnic Point Scenic drive where a couple of Carnival Hill climbswere held, the Wellcamp Road out beyond Spring Creek proved asuitable but temporary sprint track. One day two of the Club’s ardent supporters, brothers Rod andDallas Pugh were motor- cycling out around the far end of RamsayStreet when they were struck by a piece of dirt with a “For Sale”sign on it. A valley dipping down and rising up quite steeply theother side, out of the way, (no way this could be built out, saidRod), then it was full speed in to Stan to tell him they had locatedthe ideal ground for the Club’s new circuit. Stan was as impressed as the Pugh boys when he saw the place,and he acted immediately by purchasing the area in his own namebefore anyone else snapped it up, later transferring it to theClub’s name. Stan was beginning to see his long cherished dreamcome true – the Club owning its own grounds and club house, butno-one could foresee the work that had to go into clearing theland, and the many of hundreds of hours spent at the wheel ofgraders, trucks, tractors and scoops by Stan who was at the tracksometimes from daylight to dark probably made him wish he’dnever known the Pugh boys. Ardent club enthusiast Merv Brown is credited with thinking ofthe name for the area – Echo Valley, and it is just that, an echoingvalley which now very regularly reverberates to the noise of racingcar engines. The hill climb track was first to be established, and itwas a very proud moment when the Club’s first meeting was heldon its very own track.

Not content with just a hill climb track, Stan next turned it gradingin a dirt track circuit, and once again he was behind the wheel ofthe grader, day in and day out, and now everyone can see thefruits of his labours, a wonderful car racing circuit and hill climbsecond to none in Australia. The 18 acre complex has also provedmost successful for staging motor cross events for motor cycles, soits versatility knows no bounds. His dream completed, a buoyant, solid club with its own groundsand club house became a reality in 1969, and feeling that he haddone his job after 20 years of service above and beyond the call ofduty, Stanley Cromwell Mossetter decided to regretfully call it aday in 1970 and to hand over the reins of a debt free club to theyounger generation of motoring enthusiasts. He felt that the yearsof toil, sweat and tears had been more than worthwhile, and ifever a medal were struck to reward devotion to duty, devotion tosport, and devotion to club, Stan should surely be the first toreceive it. In addition to serving the members of the T.A.C., for many yearsStan served as local Queensland delegate to the National ControlCouncil of the Confederation of Australian Motor Sport, anddisplays with pride his gold badge awarded for meritoriousservice to that august body. The Club paid him the honour ofmaking him a Life Member in 1960, and he has been Patron of theClub since he retired, as well as acting as one of the threeCounsellors appointed by the committee during a few roughpassages in recent years.


A S I T H A P P E N E D . . .

Zac and Zim and the Cooper Mk V.

The Rizzo Riley in which Stan achieved most of hissuccesses. Top speed was 168kph.

Tony Burnett (Castrol) and Mossey with the Castrol Cup.


A S I T H A P P E N E D

Eagers Showroom, Margaret St where Gardentown now stands, photo taken about 1987.

EAGERS HISTORYby Brian Timms

In 1911 an American named Edward Eager came to Australia withthe Willys Overland agency. When he died in 1920, his sonFrederick Eager took over the business. Fred Eager sold Overland,Willys and Whippet cars and trucks through his franchise forQueensland and New South Wales. In 1922 these vehicles wereimported unassembled and Fred Eager set up the first vehicleassembly line in Queensland. From 1925 to 1930 Eagers held sales records for the highestproportion of Willys Overland sales in any country in the world. Willys vehicles were sold in Toowoomba by Tilbury’s Garage inNeil Street prior to the second world war.In 1931 Fred Eager relinquished his Overland Franchise andbecame the GMA distributor for Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile,Pontiac, Cadillac and other General Motors products. Hisfranchise covered Queensland and New South Wales withBrisbane, Toowoomba, Townsville and Mackay being theQueensland franchises. In 1935 Eagers was divided into several companies, namely,Eagers Retail Pty. Ltd.,Eagers Service Pty. Ltd., Eagers Used Cars PtyLtd., and Motors Pty. Ltd. Motors sold the English cars and trucks — these were Vauxhalland Bedford.During the war years of 1942-1945, Eagers supplied GMH partsand Service for the USA Army and Navy vehicles. Eagers alsoserviced vehicles for the Dutch Army at their Newstead (Brisbane)premises.After the war, with the introduction of the Holden car, businessand dealerships grew thoughout Queensland and New SouthWales. In Toowoomba Eagers operated from Margaret Street,moving slightly west in 1960 when Duggan Street was extendedthrough to Margaret Street. The Spare parts was moved toVictoria Street and Motors Limited occupied the building next tothe Strand Theatre.City Auto Sales were Holden Sub Dealers in Herries Street andoperated from early 1950s to the mid 1980s.

Eagers moved to James Street in 1987.Toowoomba Holden (Mark Crompton) took on the franchise in1993.

Exterior of Eagers Spare parts, Victoria Street oppositelibrary.

Spare parts department in Victoria Street oppositecurrent library.


L E T T E R S T O T H E E D I T O RC LU B C A R Q U I Z

December Quiz Answers1 Which make started with the founders doing machine work

for Oldsmobile then machining engines and diffs for HenryFord? Dodge.

2 Which make produced Commodores in the 40s & 50s?Hudson.

3 Which make produced the Speed Truck in 1927 and mergedwith REO in 1942? HUG.

4 Which make produced "the Red Baby" in the early 20s?International.

5 Which English make produced a 4 litre V8 from 1919 to 1925?GUY.

6 Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Maserati, Lamborghini and Aston Martinoffered superleggera models, what was Superleggera? A body of aluminium over a light tube frame.

7 Which make produced 4 cylinder and straight 8 sleeve valvemodels, known as 'SS' models, in the 20s & 30s? Panhard.

8 Which make produced the 'Salient Six' with 'Artcraft top' 1917to 1922? Stephens.

9 Which Washing Machine Co produced 4 cyl versions of theMason car in 1910 and 1911? Maytag.

10 Which make produced Airflytes and Golden Airflytes? Nash

January Quiz1. Which make produced the ‘Delivr all’, a front wheel drive Van,

from 45 to 52?

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2. Which make offered the Plaza and the Suburban in the late 50s?

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3. Which make offered the 'Fiesta' in the 50s & 60s?

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4. Which make offered the 'Constellation' from 58 to 63?

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5. Which veteran make and model had paper Mache bodies?

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6. Which early 30s make was named for a football player?

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7. Which make, produced from 1909 to 1924, started from theSeidel Buggy Company?

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8. Which make built their first car, the model A, in 1899?

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9. Which make introduced the twin 6 in 1916?

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10. Which make, renowned for their sporty 6 cylinder cars,introduced a V12 in 1971?

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Hey Everyone,Another successful and exciting year has passed. I can positivelysay that my family and I have had an enjoyable time throughoutall the rallies and social events we’ve had. Our last rally was a great turnout with approximately 50 peopleturning up in their cars. I would like to thank Mike and Sue Wellsand others for their continuous effort put in throughout the yearto make all of our rallies possible. Lunch back at the clubhousewas really nice. The food tasted great. I would also like to thankAnn Cox, Sue Wells and Nerida A’Bell and all the others whohelped put the event together. Being a part of the committee as librarian this year has been agreat experience for me and I am looking forward to the futureyears. Thank you to all the members who have formed a part ofthe committee for 2009/2010. My hobby, ‘Photography’ has taken off well taking many photosat rallies and events for the ‘Polishers Rag’. Thank you Jeff, ‘Theeditor’ for publishing my photos in the magazine. I am lookingforward to continuing this next year and making vastimprovements. I am hoping to start making use of the projectorby displaying my photos of the last rally at the end of the generalmeeting. Improvements have been made to the club trailer making it tidierand easier to use, Thanks to those who helped. I hope everyone had a merry Christmas and I hope you all havea great new year.

Thanks, Mitchell McKeiver.

Indoor Bowls ~ a fun nightPlayed at DDVVMC Club Rooms every second Tuesday night at 7.30pm.

All welcome. Dates: January 5, 19For further enquiries: Ted Taylor 4632 2565

Check this US site for collectable cars.Seems they list most of the cars for sale on-line in the US.I say this because if you follow to a particular listing they are fromdifferent companies.Of interest to me is the Lincoln listing, which includes a 42Zephyr convertible and a number of other pre- 49 Lincolns!Not to belittle the later years but the pre-49 is my main interest.And there are some quite interesting vehicles available.But from the home page, which is the link below, you can checkon most major makes.Some very nice pre-49 and a lot of 49 to 51 Mercurys, amazinglysome still running flat head V8s. Lots of Lincolns and Mercurys,in fact, right up to late model.Earliest Cadillac is 1922, with 29 and 30 as well. Vintage Packards,just amazing what is available. Probably the best one stop shopfor cars available on-line.

Regards, Graham Allum.www.carsonline-ads.com (click on your favourite link)

Wanted--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Any vintage sedan cowl vent opening mechanisms, internal rearview mirror brackets, door strikers and catches, especially to suitFisher bodies.Contact Jeff Brown: 4613 6706 or 0403 454 332--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Head gasket for a 1959 Chrysler Royal sedan AP2, 6 CYL,Flathead, side valve. Contact Mitchell McKeiver. 4630 7204 or at the next meeting.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mk II Ford Escort rear axle wheel to wheel.Contact Brian Timms: 4630 0048--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Ford Side Valve V8 Motor, preferably complete and running, butwill consider anything. Contact Greg Bowdler at night on 4630 4990.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1937-41 Ford wishbone suspension, or just the wishbone.Contact Geoffrey Voll: 4696 8874 or 0407 652 978.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wanted: Holden HQ/HJ/HX/HZ or WB 1 tonner/trayback ute, mustbe in good condition.Contact James: 0417 075 819-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grill Badge for FC Holden as per photo. Contact Keith Hoffmann 4635 1742 or 13Dorge Street, Tmba.---------------------------------------------------------

For Sale-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1925 Superior K Chevrolet tourer plus spares. Good restorationproject. $3500 ono. Contact Ken Forster: 0428 300 807--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1950 Anglia. Fully restored to original condition with Q plates.Rego papers from 1950 to 1981. Car is a Nanango. $18,000 ono. Also, Mark 1 Cortina.Contact Brad Sloss: 0404 337 333.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ford F600, ideal restoration project, would make great classic cartransporter, good cab/chassis/tray, runs OK; $2,950.Bedford, TK KGL, carries 7.8 tonne, excellent cab/tray/chassis,easy to get registered, always shedded; $3,500.Holden ute (styleside), HZ 1978, no motor or gearbox, ideal forrestoration or parts; $650.Car Parts:Rims, Sunraysa with tyres – 16inch in good condition with OKtyres, pair, $90EH Holden wiper cowl, very good condition; $25;HQ Holden headlight surrounds, pair; good condition; $50;WB Holden combination wiper-washer & radiator overflow bottle,can also be used on HQ/HJ/HX/HZ; $55Falcon wagon, XT 1969 right rear quarter panel, new old stockpanel never fitted (over 20 years old); $350Holden M20 4 speed gearbox with shifter; $250HZ Holden doors, very straight but some rust; $200 the pairHX Holden grille, nosecone, guards (inner outer guards); andbonnet, all in good to very good condition – will fitHQ/HJ/HX/HZ/WB; sell as package or may separate; $450 the lot.Contact James: 0417 075 819-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14 ~ The Polishers Rag ~ Celebrating 40 Years ~ DARLING DOWNS VETERAN & VINTAGE MOTOR CLUB

F O R S A L E & WA N T E D FREE: Two 16” x 6.00 tyres. Suitable to just keep wheel rims offthe dirt for rolling chassis. See Ian Strickland.Contact Brian Timms: 4630 0048--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------EJ Holden Special sedan on full rego. Straight, original. Newradiator, recon grey engine, 5 new tyres, new upholstery, newexhaust. $7500.Contact Merv and Denise Klein on 4637 9595.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------BRISBANE AUCTION - CLEARING SALE - Goetsch & NotleySunday 7th Feb 2010 at 10am (day after Toowoomba Swap)

A/C Karen Bracken & Dale BarnardOn site at Karen and Dale’s property at 1494 Blunder Road,DOOLANDELLA QLD 4077 (From Toowoomba take the Stapyltonexit 17 off the Logan Motorway in the direction of Forest Lake). A significant sale not to be missed of vintage vehicles, vintagemachinery, antiques, collectables, household furniture and bric-a-brac, over 400 items including 27 vehicles, something foreveryone, so bring along the ‘missus’!Viewing: From 8am on the day or by appointment. Auction: Start time 10amParking: Enter the property next door at 34 Wadeville StreetAmenities: On site and catering availableTRUCKS: 1964 Diamond T P3320 Bogey Drive 5x4 Rigid Full air200 hp 6 cyl Petrol Registered; 1970s Bedford KMR Prime MoverGMV653 RT610 Roadranger P/S Full Air No 4 Eaton single needsfull restoration; 1973 Ford D1013 D Series Fire Truck Good CabCanadian 6 cyl pet Runs great all operates GC; 1976 Ford D1000Prime Mover UD4 2 stroke RT610 roadranger Good Cab Suitrestoration; 1968 Commer Prime Mover GMV653 RTO609Roadranger No 4 Eaton 2 spd 5.6 ratio, Registered; 1958 InterR190 4X4 Airforce Runway Dump Truck Eng # 132840 (notrunning) Chassis # FA84636 winch, needs full restoration. TRAILERS: 36’ Freighter Strap Bogey Trailer perfect camber,needs tidy up; 28’ Freighter Strap Trailer converted to tautliner,lights, good rubber, barn doors has been registered. MILITARY: 1939 Federal 604 Tank Transporter Cummins Dieselwinch Tractor unit Needs full restoration; 1942 Dodge WC21 4x46 cyl side valve petrol half ton Chassis # 81523361 USA regn#252211 soft top styleside pickup drivable; 1945 Studebaker US66X6 Dump truck Good condition Has been registered; 1944Chevrolet 4X4 6 cyl militarised petrol engine Yankee Joe TroopCarrier 6.1 diffs Chassis #RC42G71M179 Registered; 1962Kaiser Reo 6X6 M35 6 cyl pet submersible Eng# M331-208581Chassis# M38879 LH drive Cab Chassis Running Needs fullrestoration; 1944 Willeys Jeep LH drive Engine# MB370760, Vin#GPW6860 No rust Low mileage Registered; Clayton mobilewelder with V8 Ford running. CRAWLERS: Bristol 20, 1948-53 Austin 1800 Petrol, 3 spd, 4 cyl,22hp; Bristol PD48 1965, P3 Perkins Diesel, 32hp; CaterpillarC22 1936-38 Pet/Kero 25hp; Fordson County E27N 1949, P6Perkins diesel; International TD6 1950’s Pet/Dsl 40hp Bulldozer;International TD6 1950’s Pet/Dsl 40hp; Oliver AD 1940’s HerculesDooc Diesel; TRACTORS: Chamberlain MKII 1958 Perkins Diesel Industrial,Cab; Ferguson TE20 Vanguard Petrol 20hp; Fordson SuperDexter P3 Perkins Diesel; Le Roi 105 GI 1947 Pet 6 cyl Mobile AirCompressor; Massey Harris 102 Junior 1942 Continental PetrolTricycle Twin Power.Vehicle sale will follow the sale of over 380 items of collectablecrockery, furniture, vintage machinery and equipment, souvenirs,militaria and sundries. Features 1860’s cedar two sided desk,bentwood chairs, pine church organists settle, silky oak items,cast iron stoves, oven, Royal Albert, Alfred Meakin and otherEnglish china, old crystal and Murano glass, sewing machines,brassware, mincers, Mytton Rodd Duchess silverware...Further details & terms contact Neil Goetsch on 0417 719 671 orGeoff Notley on 0427 001 787 or Karen & Dale on 07 3879 1200or 0408 749 012 or [email protected] details/photos available at www.anzacconvoy.blogspot.comwww.geoffnotleyauctioneer.com.au / www.goetschandsons.com.au

January 201023-24: Allora Heritage WeekendOrganised by Warwich Veteran & Vintage Vehicle Club at AlloraShowgrounds, New England Hway. Entry $5. Cars, trucks,motorcycles, stationery engines, crafts, pipe band, Country music.Main Feature: Case Tractors, Kenworth trucks, French cars.Ph 4666 3554, 4666 3286, 0418 875 469. (0409 766 288 Swap)

26: DDVVMC: Highfields Pioneer VillageThis year we will pay a visit to the Poineer Village at Highfields.Lots of displays to look at as well as the grand parade. You maywant to be part of this or just sit back and watch. More completedetails to follow.

February 20105 & 6: Toowoomba SwapMake sure you put your name down for a job with Rick A’Bell.

April 201011: ARAGC Show & Shine - Carrara S/G

15-16: Sunshine Coast Motorkana

May 20102: David Hack Classic Toowoomba airport from 9-3

8-9: Dalby Annual Rally Held at Dalby


C O M I N G E V E N T S

T R A D E R S

Licensed Real Estate AgentLorna Poulton

0418 700 044

Buying or Selling Real Estate?

Call

SWAPSJan 23/24 Allora Heritage Swap Allora Showgrounds

Feb 5 & 6 Toowoomba Swap Tmba Showgrounds

Mar 28 Ormiston Swap Ormiston School 3207 3733

June 20 Original Gold Coast Swap Showgrounds0413 875 737

July 31 Nambour Swap

Take advantage of my 21 years ofexperience and knowledge sellingproperties in Toowoomba and [email protected]

e: [email protected]: www.it-solutions.com.aup: 4642 1480 | f: 4632 1480

OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.45am - 5.15pm, Sat 8am - 12 noon

www.gardencitytyreplus.com • [email protected] Neil & Thomas Sts, Toowoomba • Ph 4639 2244

Tyres for 4WDs, Cars & Light Commercials that last longer

Supply and fit tyres for your 50s, 60s, 70s classic

Gently removes paint from all car panels... without damage

Nat Barton0408 008 375Ph: 4696 3301 (office)www.sodablast.com.au

Revolutionary cleaning process that’s quick, efficient, cost-effective and won’t damage your panels — or affect glass, rubber, chrome, hydraulics or engine parts.

PUBLIC NOTICESt Thomas More's Catholic Parish, cnr of South and Ramsaystreets are celebrating their 50th anniversary on June 19 and20, 2010. You are invited to bring your old car and display it from 10 amto 3pm on the Sunday, June 20, 2010A parking area for 24 cars has been allocated for the exclusiveuse of club members to display your car.Models sought around the 60s, but all and any old car mostwelcome.Register your car with Kevin McGrath, ph. 4636 3760 or at anyclub meeting from now on.

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Are there Significant Events in Your Family?Club members — contact me by phone or email if you have afamily member or know of a fellow club member suffering abereavement or celebrating a significant event, eg: birth, marriageor anything else of note.

Leonie Ham


Print Post PP405518/00039

If not claimed please return to Darling Downs Veteran & Vintage Motor Club Inc: PO Box 486, Toowoomba QLD 4350

POSTAGEPAID

TOOWOOMBAQLD 4350

Sue Wells and Ann Cox receive a little ‘thank you’ from the club members, for all their hard work organising rallies and food.

Merv & Denise Klein seem to have run into a penguin on theirtravels, now doubling as their bonnet mascot/Christmas display.

Perry Pascoe lifts the bonnet on the Customline — possibly to poura little extra Christmas cheer down the carby of the big Y block.