bob collins and the “bobmobile” parham jinker · bob collins and the “bobmobile” parham...

VOL. 28 No 5 OCTOBER 2014

Bob Collins and the “Bobmobile” Parham Jinker

(See story on page 18)

www.gawlercarclub.com

GAWLER VETERAN VINTAGE & CLASSIC VEHICLE CLUB

PO Box 640 Gawler 5118 www.gawlercarclub.com

CLUB AIMS To encourage the restoration, preservation and use of veteran, classic and other special interest vehicles. To extend to owners, drivers, friends and all persons interested in such vehicles, the hospitality, privileges and conveniences enjoyed in connection with the club

MEETINGS On the 3rd Tuesday of each month in the Gawler Sport and Community Centre, Nixon Terrace, Gawler at 7.00pm.

JOURNAL Available to all members bimonthly, on the web site or by post if preferred, in February, April, June, August, October, and December.

JOINING FEE $50.00: a “once only” payment due from all new members

MEMBERSHIP FEE $50.00 per annum due on 30 June (pro rata for new members)

LOG BOOKS See inside back cover for requirements to maintain currency of vehicle Log Books

OFFICE BEARERS 2014/2015

PRESIDENT [email protected]

Michael Williams Debra

H 8523 1233

M 0407 605 354

VICE PRESIDENT [email protected]

Mark Chapman Pauline

H 8522 6481 M 0417 808 594

SECRETARY [email protected]

Gavin Launer H:8522 4953 M 0422 998 980

TREASURER [email protected]

David Kernich Fran

H 8522 3302

M 0400 946 496

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY [email protected]

Ron Stephens Barbara

M 0417 848 541

EVENTS DIRECTOR [email protected]

Corrie Wake Kaye

H 8522 2373 M 0407 717 666

COMMITTEE MEMBERS Kingsley Branson Fred Chapman Peter Dalton

H 8522 3457 H 8527 4049 H 8258 1524

M 0434 493 167 M 0428 975 465

CLUB APPOINTMENTS 2014/2015

PUBLIC: OFFICER [email protected]

Peter Bailey Kaye

H 8522 5248 M:0424 070 812

JOURNAL EDITOR [email protected]

Alvin Jenkin Sylvia

H 8529 2504 M 0427 973 051

PUBLICITY OFFICER [email protected]

Trevor Bellchambers Lyn

H 8522 1864 M 0414 397 737

AUDITOR [email protected]

Shane Bailey H 8523 2131 M 0418 825 497

HISTORICAL VEHICLE REGISTRARS [email protected]

Brett Unsworth Jenelle

M 0419 842 062

Norman Matthews Judy

H 8254 3569

Martin Stephens Glenys

H 8636 2494 M 0422 830 365

FEDERATION REPRESENTATIVE

Gerry Petrus Karen

H 8522 2852 M 0412 396 130

SWAP MEET CO-ORDINATOR [email protected]

Michael Williams

H 8523 1233 M 0407 605 354

SEAL HOLDERS

VOLUNTEER POSITIONS 2014/2015

SUPPER PEOPLE: Barbara McLellan DRINKS PERSON: Gerry Petrus

MERCHANDISING Kingsley Branson H 8522 3457

WEBMASTER [email protected]

Peter Bailey H 8522 5248 M:0424 070 812

GVVCVC Journal October 2014.

GAWLER VETERAN VINTAGE AND CLASSIC VEHICLE CLUB IS FEATURE CLUB AT ALL BRITISH DAY 2015

This is a historic occasion! For the first time ever, a club will be the featured attraction at All British Day. In the past All British Day has had featured marques. The GVVCVC is honoured to be the featured club.

The Club vehicles will be on display in the centre of the main oval at Echunga with whatever displays we may wish to set up and includes a greater allocation of space per vehicle than is available in the general display area. It is our opportunity to display as many vehicles of British origin as we can to demonstrate the great diversity in the club. So get your British Vehicle ready and register ASAP.

All British Day is on Sunday February 8th 2015 at Echunga Oval.

Registration forms are not yet available but applications close on Sunday November 30th 2014, and late applications will not be accepted. Since there will not be another Journal issued before closure date, please be attentive at meetings to obtain registration forms and respond as soon as possible. Entry fees are reasonable (they have been $15 per vehicle for some years, but this may change). E-Torque messages will be issued as a reminder.

Note that entry is available to all British Marques whether manufactured in Britain or elsewhere, and it is not restricted to historic vehicles. So your Aussie manufactured or assembled BMC, Rootes, Triumph, Ford or GM product etc is eligible. That is, Leyland P76, Austin Tasman, Triumph 2000, Hillman Hunter, Ford Prefect or Cortina, or Vauxhall Vagabond can be entered (Even some Jowett Javelins were assembled in Australia, although none are believed to have survived), and modern Land Rovers, Jaguars, Aston Martins are eligible.

For breaking news and to obtain registration forms, keep an eye on the web site http://www.allbritishday.com/entrants-information/ or like allbritishday on facebook.

Gawler Swap Meet The Gawler Swap Meet on Sunday 14th September was the best yet. The weather was perfect, and it brought out both sellers and buyers in droves. About 350 vendor sites were established and we had difficulty fitting in late comers, and well over 3000 buyers came through the gates. The variety of items on offer appeared to be better than in the recent past, and most vendors reported good trade.

The workload on our volunteers continues to be an issue. Most have volunteered for years and many are getting on in age. Because of the lack of volunteers, the gate marshalls had to put in 2 hour stints, meaning that they were standing for long periods and lost an opportunity to enjoy the swap meet itself. Our objective should be to reduce this duty period to one hour. There are over 500 members in the club, yet we can only get 20 or 30 to participate in this important event.

Please consider now the possibility of helping out next year.

Annual Dinner and Presentation Night About 80 members and friends attended this event at Café Nova on Saturday 23rd August. It was a great night with good entertainment, food and fellowship. It was good to get to meet up with some new faces and we look forward to continuing relationsships.

Trevor Evans gave a short illustrated talk on the Dolomite restoration project, and Vice President Mark Chapman presented him with a voucher in appreciation of the great work that he did in setting up and managing the project.

Later Vice President Mark made presentations on behalf of President Mike Williams who was unable to be present. The President’s Award went to Trevor Evans for his contribution to club activities during the past year, and the Hard Luck Trophy went to Colin McCracken for his effort in modifying a fence with this XA Falcon Coupe at the June long weekend event at Moonta. Perpetual plaques were presented to past winners Alvin Jenkin and Gavin Launer, and gifts were presented to all who had organised events in the past year.


Membership Report WELCOME To

• Bob and Evelyn Dyer and their 1970 Ford Capri • Vicki Luke and her Volkswagen Kombi Camper • Mark and Morag Jenkinson and Children Max,10yrs of age and Mia at 8 yrs of age with their

1928 Packard Phaeton…. This is the first time I have had children members. I think this is wonderful and if more members ,with chidren under 16 yrs of age, want them to be added onto their membership,come and see me .If we can get young people interested at an early age,I believe that some of them will want to join in their own right when they can.

We currently have 504 members in 311 memberships (193 joint, 118 single)

There are 324 vehicles registered through the club (ie their log books are managed by our Registrars)

Regards Ron Stephens Membership Secretary Membership Directory The new Membership Directory is now available at a cost of $2 and distribution is limited to members only. Pick up your copy from Alvin at a club meeting or send five 70 cent stamps to Alvin at PO Box 199 Dublin 5501 to get it posted to you.

As always there are a couple of corrections.

Robert Dyer’s mobile is 0427 616 090

Colin Mc Cracken has a new mobile: 0459 389 629

Should we have By-Law 001? Discussion on the 3 attendance rule The Committee is contemplating the future of the clubs only by-law, and would like the views of members on whether the bylaw should remain, be changed, or be cancelled. By-law 001 It is the expectation of the G.V.V.& C.V.C .that as a Member with Club Historic Registered Vehicle/s that you will attend and participate in at least three (3) Club Activities during a Club Calendar Year with one or more of your vehicles to qualify for re-issue of your club membership. Where there are special circumstances, you may present your Log Book and appeal to the Club Historic Registrars or Committee for their consideration.

Accepted by Committee: 22/ 2/2000 Ratified at General Meeting: 21/ 3/2000 modified by Committee 27/1/2009 The Club has very good data on membership attendances from records maintained by the membership secretary Ron Stephens.

During the last financial year, 45 of our current memberships attended zero activities, and 92 attended 3 or less activities. When you consider that our membership hovers around the 300 mark, this means that 30% of our membership is not complying with the by law.

The bylaw was originally introduced in a slightly different format in attempt to forestall an abuse of the intent of the conditional registration scheme. Certain members were found to be using conditionally registered vehicles for daily use for the full 90 days allowed per year and were not participating in club activities. The Registrars have indicated from their activity in checking log books that this does not appear to be occurring at present.

To date the bylaw has not been enforced.

What are your thoughts on the future of this bylaw? Contact President Mike or the Editor and give us your view. (Phone them as shown on page 2 of the Journal, or preferably email [email protected] or [email protected] )

An open forum will be held at the October meeting on the subject

(Another interesting statistic: 74 of our memberships do not have vehicles registered with the club, 47 of these attended 3 or more activities last year. Obviously some people find that the club meets their needs apart from being able to obtain conditional registration on their old vehicle)

DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER 2014 EDITION FRIDAY NOVEMBER 21 st 2014


Events Calendar More details of some events will be found elsewhere in the Journal. Contact person is shown in (brackets). Note: Most runs start from Gawler TAFE carpark . Lyndoch Rd (behind Fasta Pasta)

OCTOBER NOVEMBER

Sunday 5th

Sparrow Run Cudlee Creek Meet 8.00am at TAFE

Sunday 2nd

Seven Hill Open Garden Meet 9am for 9.30am at TAFE

Wed 8th

Mt Barker Run Meet TAFE 8.30am for 9.00am. (Barbara McLellan)

Tues 18th

Club meeting 6.00pm Bring your old vehicle night BBQ food provided

Tues 21st

Club meeting 7.00pm Wed 19th Bill Johnson Collection and Long Plains Lunch $10 at Long Plains Hall Meet TAFE 9.00am for 9.30am

Sun 26th Clem Smith Collection Meet TAFE 9.00am for 9.30am. (Fred Chapman)

Sun 30th Sparrow Run Hamley Bridge Meet 8.00am at TAFE

DECEMBER JANUARY

Sun 7th Christmas Function Sandy Creek 3pm: Bookings Essential (Trevor Bellchambers)

Sun 4th Sparrow Run to Gumeracha Meet 8.00am at TAFE

Thurs 11th Mallala Street Party (TBC) Meet 5pm for 5.30 pm Mallala Hospital (Alvin Jenkin)

Tues 20th

Club meeting 7.00pm

Tues 16th

Club meeting 7.00pm Christmas Supper, bring food

Wed 21st Around the sheds Meet 9am for 9.30am at TAFE

Wed 17th No Wednesday Run this month

Mon 26th Australia Day Gathering To Be Advised

Thurs 18th Freeling Street Party (TBC) Hosted by NARC Kapunda Chapter

Sat 20th Hamley Bridge Street Party Meet Hamley Bridge Hospital 7pm for 7.30pm (Bob Houston)

Other dates for your Diary: GVVCVC Events Mar 18th 2015: Crabbing Day Port Parham

Other/Invitational Events

Oct 4th 2014: Copper Coast Show and shine Oct 11-12th : Burra Morgan veteran run Oct 17th -20th : Monaro Nationals, Barossa Valley Oct 18th : Scase Automotive Kapunda Show n Shine

Oct 18th 19th : Barossa Valley motorcycle rally, Angaston Oct 19th Cortina Capri Club 25th anniversary, Mylor

http://www.cortinacapri.com.au/ Nov 9th Gumeracha Show and Shine Jan 17th 18th : Milang Yesterday Power Rally

Swap Meets ( Sourced from http://www.bevenyoung.com.au/car.htm) 5th October: Motorcycle only, Balhannah 19th October: Strathalbyn 19th October: Toy and Model, Windsor Gardens 26th October: Pooraka 23rd November: Regency Park 15th 16th November: Bendigo 16th November: Mt Pleasant 23rd November: Gawler Caravan and Camping

18th January: Hahndorf 1st February: Victor Harbour 1st February: Lockleys (T Ford) 15th February: Murray Bridge 15th March: Clare 29th March: Woodside 2nd 3rd May: Naracoorte 24th May Kapunda


GVVCVC RUN TO Mt BARKER, WEDNESDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2014. Meet at TAFE carpark at 8.30am for 9am start. Cost $12.00 per person

We will travel via Williamstown, Birdwood. Mt Torrens, Woodside and Nairne to arrive at Mt Barker by 10.30am.

We are going to “Tickletank” for a devonshire morning tea and a talk by the owner of the history of this unique “Tickletank” before looking around the home and garden.

This was a 50,000 gallon EWS water concrete tank on 450sq metres of land when Irene Stone Pearce bought it in 1998. Irene has converted this into an amazing place by adding 3 smaller tanks for a bathroom, laundry and extra bedroom. It is furnished throughout with home made cupboards and furnishings made from recycled materials to make a cosy and comfortable place to live.

The garden is a delight of hundreds of plants with many salvaged and recycled materials made into sculptures and artistic objects placed among them.

Afterwards we will head for nearby Auchendarroch House for lunch in their Bistro. Large meals range from $9.90 to $15.90 or you may just like coffee and cake.

We have been promised to view some of the rooms of the old house if there are no functions booked for that day’'.

Bookings are essential . Contact Barbara immediately if you wish to attend

Information: Barbara McLellan.......0407 608 228...or 8265 0401

Clem Smith Collection and Mallala Motor Sport Park Sunday 26th October

This is an opportunity to be on a personally guided tour of the Mallala Motor sport park and the Clem Smith Collection by the man himself. Clem owns the park and has a very interesting collection of mainly Hudson and American Motors cars with a sprinkling of other interesting cars including a Frontinac T Model Ford, a Stearns Night, and the Fiat 1100 that Clem drove in one of the Ampol trials. Members of MAPS and the Oldsmobile Club will also be on this run, so it will be an opportunity to catch up with others with different interests.

Meet at TAFE at 9.00am for 9.30am. Arrangements have been made with the Mallala Hotel to provide lunch following the tour, prices for mains range from $12 to $18 or you can bring your own picnic lunch.

Numbers are required for lunch. Please indicate your intent to Fred Chapman on 85274049 or email [email protected] or indicate at the October Meeting.

Seven Hill Open Garden Sunday 2nd November 2014

This run is to the Heritage Garden at Sevenhill

Meet at TAFE 9am for 9.30 am

Walter and Kay Duncan have an extensive English style garden around a period homestead with a particular emphasis on roses.

Recommended by The Rose Society of South Australia as one of Australia’s best private gardens in 2013 and winner of the Most Outstanding Garden in the Clare Valley with an award presented at the Australia Day Breakfast 2004.

Walter has a collection of T model Fords and Morris Minors which are usually on display. Entry fee is $10 per person which includes Devonshire tea OR wine and cheese. Proceeds go to The Royal Flying Doctor and The Women’s & Children’s Hospital. Local clubs also provide food suitable for a light lunch. More information on the garden is at http://theheritagegarden.com.au/


Run to Pinery and Long Plains Wednesday 19th November This run will visit Bill Johnson’s collection near Pinery.

Bill and Margaret have been long term members of the Gawler Veteran Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club until their retirement this year. The collection contains some rather unique vehicles including a 1909 BSA car owned by the family since new, a 1920s Bean truck, several Chevrolets from 1920s to 1960’s, and restored tractors.

Meet at TAFE at 9.00am for a 9.30am start. The run will proceed to Mallala and take Traeger Road (formerly known as Balaklava Road, and known locally as “the 9 Mile”) the venue.

Following the visit the run will proceed to the Long Plains Memorial Hall for lunch provided by the Long Plains Red Cross at $10 a person. A historic photo collection can be inspected at the hall.

Numbers are essential for catering purposes. Contact Alvin on 8529 2504 or email [email protected]

Note that the run travels on some well made but unsealed roads

Gawler Veteran Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club Christmas Function

Sandy Creek Oval Sunday 7th December

3pm for activities for all the family Bring your vehicle, your kids and grandkids

Bookings Essential More details at club meetings and on E-Torque closer to the

event Contact Trevor Bellchambers 8522 1864


Bendigo Swap Meet Coach Tour November 17th- 18th 2012

travelling with Southside Roadlines

Travel to Bendigo swap meet in comfort and hassle free to seek and retrieve those illusive parts you require. Enjoy the company of fellow enthusiasts.

Friday Nov 16- Coach departs Central Bus Station Bowen St, just offFranklin St at 8:30pm. Stopping at designated pick-ups on route. Saturday Nov 17- Enjoy the swap meet. Sunday Nov 18- Return to Adelaide with ETA of 9:45pm at Bowen St. Cost: $240.00 per person twin share $275.00 per single. Rooms and Coach seats are limited so ‘first in- best dressed’... Book Early! Included in cost is - Return coach travel to Bendigo Swap Meet - Light breakfast on arrival Saturday morning - Swap Meet entry for two days - Motel accommodation, dinner and breakfast - Freight of parts to South Australia (provided they fit, the coach has a large cargo hold and will accommodate that fender, bonnet or bike)

Further information Russell Schubert 0413 024 225

SA Jag Day Sunday 19th October 2014

Brighton Secondary School at 305 Brighton Road, North Brighton. Gates are open from 9am for Display Cars and Stall operators to set up their displays. Gates open to the public from 11am and are open through until 3pm for vehicle viewing.

Vehicle and Spectator Entry are both free.

Features this year will be trade stalls and lucky prize draws. We will also have onsite catering and an undercover seating area so you can sit and relax over a bite or a coffee or take a walk through the spectacular display of Jaguars. We will also be conducting our third Annual Charity Day to support the Salvation Army with participants and guests being asked to donate non perishable food items on the day.

Enquiries Philip Prior on 0402670654 or email [email protected] or go to

www.jdcsa.com.au

'DOWN UNDER' LONDON TO BRIGHTON RUN for

VETERAN CARS, MOTORCYCLES COMMERCIAL VEHICLES SUNDAY 26th OCTOBER 2014

Hosted by The Vintage Sports Car Club of S.A. Inc.

Vehicles assemble at 9.40am at London Road Mile end for 10am start and head for Brighton.

Registration close 30 September 2014

Enquiries:Nevin Skurray (08) 8296 19911 (a.h.) or 0413 023 178 email [email protected]


SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RAILWAY MODELLERS ASSOCIATION INC

TOY AND MODEL

SWAPMEET

SUNDAY 19th October 2014

10.00AM UNTIL 1.00PM

WINDSOR GARDENS VOCATIONAL COLLEGE GYMNASIUM. Corner of Danby & McKay Avenues, Windsor Gardens

ENQUIRIES & BOOKINGS: EMAIL: [email protected]

TERRY MEADS 8254 6207 (M)0411 587176 or

PETER PICKERING 8344 7625 (M)0429 808576

The Restoration Project Raffle

The Triumph Dolomite restored by club members is being raffled with tickets available at club events including monthly meetings. 5000 tickets at $5.00 each are available, take a book of 10 and sell them to your mates/colleagues. The raffle will be drawn at the Club Christmas dinner in December.

A book of tickets has been posted to each member to sell off within the next 2 months.

A Member’s Story Ron Stephens

Our Membership Secretary Ron Stephens, that’s him in these photos, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2008. Whilst having treatment (37 doses of radio-therapy) over a period of 7 weeks plus 2 days, he made a bucket list. Part of his list was to buy an old car. His first ever car was a 1938 Ford V8 sedan in 1954. Since then a number of cars in every decade from the 30’s, total about 70. He bought a 1962 Wolseley 15/60 in 2009 and joined the GVVCV, mainly, as his cousin Corrie Wake, was, and still is, a Member. He and his partner Barbara enjoyed many club events in the Wolseley until a fateful day in 2011 when he

bought a 1974 XJ6 Jaguar. The R.A.A. hate him, he keeps them very busy, but Barbara and he are having lots of fun with it. The main thrust of this story really is not about cars, or the club, it is about Cancer.

Ron is proud (and very happy) to be a cancer survivor and he and Barbara support in any way they can, cancer groups, hence the shaving of Ron’s head at a recent Gawler Country Music Club event with the funds raised going to CANTEEN, supporting kids with cancer. Ron can’t stress enough the importance of annual tests for Prostate cancer, a simple blood test, but more importantly, a digital examination which your G.P will do. Strangely though, is that in most cases, you have to ask the G.P. to do this. Please for your sake and your families, have this test and all your medical checks each year. Have a set month, Ron finds January a good month for him as it too hot to travel far from home. Girls, of course you are included in this plea for annual check ups.

AUTOPRO GAWLER

Sponsoring the Gawler Car Club Web Site www.gawlercarclub.com

See Gordon & his team at 80 Adelaide Rd Gawler for service and advice.

Phone 8522 2000

− Produce your membership card to receive discounts and special offers.....


Eyes & Ears by Roving Reporter Pusser’s “G”

Martin & Glenys have a new addition to the Family! A guard dog named Ollie “Beware”

Seconds Out:-Two club members at Bethany were observed fiercely debating on how many Old Car Days there had been. The answer is Eight, the Federation declared 1st September 2007 Old Car Day, although this appeared as an event on our calendar only two cars attended due to short notice and it being the Saturday of the Gawler Show and the Gawler club was committed to this event, However there have been seven Old Car Day runs organized to Bethany by Alvin, Three groups from different starting points, and coordinated by other club members. (see also page 14)

ALL BRITISH DAY: - Rick Hoffman advised us at Bethany that A.B.D.C. had decided to change the format of the day by not promoting Marques as previous years, but to identify clubs and their cars The Gawler Club (our Club) has been given the opportunity to be the first club to be represented in this new format. A quick count in our club directory shows that we have approximately 280 British cars, trucks and motorcycles, not all running of course, quite a few of these along with their owners would not have participated in this event, this is a great day and a chance to see some well presented cars, trucks and bikes, next year’s event is a fantastic opportunity to get a maximum turn out of our vehicles, and promote our club, with some eighty clubs registered with the FHMC SA, it will be a long time before we get the chance again.

JOB APPLICATION: - Rumour has it that Dave is about to conduct interviews for an unpaid temporary position, House/Keeper, Chef, Mechanic/Car detailer, Gardener, & Dhobey wallah. (1 position only) Whilst June is out of action. Note, he advises all applicants must be qualified to carry out all duties as required in a professional and disciplined nautical manner.

Projects/Restorations:-Bob Houston Holden Ute well under way, Corrie Wake’s Mini looks pretty in its coat of light blue. June Kent, Austin A30 would have done its maiden run Old Car Day if the windscreen wipers had worked, Bob Carr’s green/white Mini is nearly there, looks fantastic. Alan Martin doing all the hard work rubbing down the red Fiat, Peter Bailey’s Bug Eye Sprite is expected on the road very soon(can we say All British Day) Bob Collins still meditating over the Sunbeam Rapier. Glenys Stephens’ Triumph Herald still awaiting Martin to make room in his shed, Norm Mathew’s 1934 MORRIS 10/4 coupe restoration might get started, with the sale of Swap meet items and a couple of trips to the scout recycling depot with west end cans it has made plenty space for the new shed extension.

Auction Night: - A very enjoyable fun session, auctioneer Gavin was once again very entertaining and kept the auction moving, but noticeably the quality and quantity of automotive parts and unwanted accessories items including the sought after Holey dollars seems to have diminished, Is it because we were all successful and sold it off at this year’s Swap Meet! Or is it the result of last year’s change of format, where the proceeds went into the treasury rather than the seller making the choice as to paying a percentage of his proceeds received or making a donation to the club for the auctioneer’s services. Fitness Medical:-An extract from new self assessment form sent out to the over 70s from the Registrar of Motor vehicles which is replacing the form we were not going to have and medical which was being discontinued in September 2014,Which is now called Moving Right Along: Obligations and Opportunities for Older Drivers. This is aimed at the older drivers, their families and friends and encourages safer, greener and more active travel for older South Australians. Information: - http://dpti.sa.gov.au/communityprograms/programs/moving%20right%20along

The 2014 Bay to Birdwood Sunday 28th September was not a great day to take pre 1956 cars on a lengthy run through the hills. It was warm and windy with a fire ban declared in the Mt Lofty Ranges, and winds expected of up to 90Km/h. Thankfully the route had been changed from the 2013 Bay to Birdwood Classic which was up the freeway to Hahndorf and proved to be a test for vehicles, drivers and organisers. This route through Houghton and Inglewood had some testing climbs but was easier to handle than the freeway route. There were few holdups in the metro area although a fire at a premises on Nottage Terrace at North Adelaide resulted in one lane being closed for emergency vehicles, and this created some congestion. A 1940’s Diamond T Truck from CMV Historic was the major hold up on the climbs, but they sensibly pulled over when possible to let the faster vehicles through.

Needless to say a number of vehicles succumbed to the conditions. The Jolly Jenkin Jowett Javelin was on its first run after an engine rebuild and ran very hot, consuming about 20 litres of water, but it made it.

The Gawler club had the Dolomite on display at both the start and the finish and Peter Dalton and Kingsley Branson were busy selling tickets in the raffle.

Trevor Unsworth as usual had the lead car but he had to take the “modern”1927 Chrysler as the 1916 Willys Overland tossed a universal joint the day before. The “Royal” Pontiac did the run, still being offered for sale.

Didya see this couple on the channel 9 news?


TECH TORQUETECH TORQUETECH TORQUETECH TORQUE

How are your Tyres? (Reproduced from the minutes of the FHMC SA June 2014)

All tyres are produced with a serial Tyre Identification Number (or serial TIN) that shows the date of manufacture of a tyre (See Figure 1&2 below). The last three digits (for tyres made pre 2000) or four digits (for post 2000 tyres) of the serial TIN indicate the week and year that the tyre was made. For example, Figure 1 below shows a tyre made in the 37th week of 1995 and Figure 2 shows a tyre made in the 12th week of 2004. Also a tyre made in the 1990's can be distinguished from a tyre made in the 1980's due to a triangular indentation after the last number which is not present on 1980's tyres.

How old is too old? This is a subject of much debate within the tyre industry and no tyre expert can tell exactly how long a tyre will last. However, on the results of experience many tyre companies, including Bridgestone, warrant their tyres against manufacturing and material defects for five years from the date of manufacture. Based on their understanding a number of vehicle manufacturers are now advising against the use of tyres that are more than six years old due to the effects of ageing.

Tyre Ageing Mechanism There are three main mechanisms of tyre ageing. The first involves rubber becoming more brittle. Sulphur is used to link rubber molecules together during vulcanisation with the application of heat and pressure, giving the rubber its useful elastic properties and strength. As the tyre absorbs energy in the form of light, heat or movement the tyre continues to vulcanise. This ongoing vulcanisation causes the rubber to become stiffer and more brittle.

The second mechanism of tyre ageing is oxidation involving oxygen and ozone from the air compromising the strength and elasticity of the rubber and the integrity of the rubber to steel bond. Basically heat and oxygen cause cross linking between polymer chains (causing the rubber to harden) and scission of polymer chains (leading to reduced elasticity).

Thirdly, breakdown of the rubber to steel-belt bond will occur due to water permeating through a tyre and bonding with the brass plate coating on steel belts. This causes the steel to rubber bond to weaken leading to reduced tyre strength and reduced heat resistance. If compressed air used for inflation is not completely dry, tyre strength will be affected over time. Even unused tyres will become more brittle, weaker and less elastic with exposure to water, air. heat and sunlight.

Warning signs Regardless of their age tyres should be replaced if they show significant crazing or cracking in the tread grooves or sidewall and or bulging of the tread face or sidewall. All tyres, especially unused spare tyres, should be inspected periodically to determine their suitability for service

(Editor’s note: I decided to check this out with our vehicles knowing that some tyres are quite old. First learning point: the TIN Serial number is on only one side of the tyre and often the tyres are mounted with the TIN on the inside. Our P5 Rover is fitted with Goodyear Eagles made in Australia all with the TIN on the inside and too hard for me to get at easily. The car had not been registered for 15 years before we bought it 2 years ago, and Eagles have not been made in Australia for many years, so these tyres are certainly old, although there are none of the warning signs. I put two new tyres on the Jowett for the 2014 Bay to Birdwood replacing the spare, an old Olympic that had a good retread on it, and a worn Excelsior. The TIN on the Olympic was 18CA1352, not real helpful, it is probably the 35th week but what year? 1952, 1962, 1972, 1982? (probably 1962 from my knowledge of the history of the car). The Excelsior has a TIN 06 08 120673 and I know that it has been on the car since August 2008 and the coding does not match the above standard, I suspect the first 4 numbers have significance ie they may have been made (in India) in June 2008. A new Excelsior bought last week has TIN 031187 1414 which appears to have been made in 14th week of 2014. A Yokohama on the Land Rover has TIN TFM1712 which makes sense, 17th week of 2012. A Hardie Highway on the P3 Rover has TIN DH04125. Since the car has not been driven in 45 years and the tyre is a retread it is probably December 1955 manufacture. It would appear, however, that standardization does not apply everywhere!)


Towing —Warning—D Shackles and Chains Following discussion at our August meeting this article has been reproduced from the August edition of the Alvis Magazine (Victoria) kindly provided by GVVCVC Member Frank Smith

The Victorian Police have found another money raiser. A $235 fine and 3 demerit points if you do not have 'Load Rated' D Shackles fitted to the chains from your vehicle to your tow vehicle. They are also checking the chains, tow ball weight and towing capacity of the tow vehicle and the towbar.

If your vehicle is listed as able to tow 2.5 tonnes and your towbar is listed at 1.5 tonnes then 1.5 tonnes is all you are legally able to tow. If the weight on the towbar exceeds the manufacturer's towbar rating, you will have to unhook and go and get a tow vehicle of the correct towing capacity. This was seen in Bairnsdale over the past few weeks. It would muck up your holiday a bit.

There is a certain formula for the size, fitting and type of chains as well (all in Australian Design Rules 62/01).

ADR62/01 also states that if you have two chains, they must be crossed over to stop the drawbar from contacting the ground in the event of a failure. The chains must also be short enough to stop the drawbar from contacting the road. D rated shackles have different colours for different ratings, yellow for up to 2 tonnes etc.

Interpretation of the Australian Design Rules is that if a shackle is used to attach the safety chain to the tow hitch it must have at least the same load capacity as the chain, ie if the chain is 3000kg load capacity then a 3 ton shackle must be used,

In South Australia, "It is the view of SAPOL to strongly urge the public to make the change to a rated D shackle for peace of mind when towing and as part of a positive outlook on road safety". "As part of the SAPOL Road Safety Section we will continue to promote rated D shackles to the public as a road safety measure. " "In SA it is not an offence to have a non rated D shackle connecting the safety chains to a motor vehicle", Senior Constable First Class Paul Bryant said.

It is recommended that if shackles are used, then they comply with AS 2741-2002 "Shackles". These shall be legibly and permanently marked with the following :The manufacturer's name or trademark, Quality grade of the shackle, e.g. ("M" or c4", "S" or "6"), Working Load Limit (WLL) or Rating; Identification marking to correlate shackle to test certificate.

Notes: Generally, the break load limit of a rated shackle will be six times greater than its work limit. The Pin diameter of shackle will be greater than the diameter of the main shackle body. Same size shackles of different quality grades will have a different WLL (i.e. 6mm “s” grade shackle has a greater WLL than a 6mm "M" grade shackle.

Stainless steel shackles are unsuitable for trailer use due to the material's general low resistance to bending stresses.

“S” or "6" grade "D" shackles bear similar characteristics to "S' or "6" grade bow shackles.

Bow shackles provide for greater angular usage compared with T" shackles.

Rated bolts, chain shackles or other suitable fittings (i.e. Hammerlocks) may be used as devices for connection on safety chains providing the break load limit of the device is at least 1.5 times greater that the ATM of the trailer.

I have not been able locate anything on the VicRoads website regarding which shackles to use, nor anywhere in the Act (doesn't mean it's not there), but think that they are acting under the Australian Design Rules (see ADR62/OI) and Australian Standards (AS-2741-2002) which lists chain regulations from under 750kg up to large semis and B doubles. (VSB-I) We will let you know when we find out anything. If you find out anything, then please let me know ASAP. Please ask questions from the authorities before you hook up and head off.

Rick Cove This article first appeared in the GHAC June 2014 newsletter.

(Editor’s note: Following the August Meeting I contacted the RAA legal department and got basically the same response regarding the SA situation as quoted in this article. However, as I regularly tow interstate, I have upgraded all my shackles to these standards. I then met the problem of the rated shackles not fitting the attaching points on my 3.5 tonne rated towbar. I took this problem to the specialists, A Noble and Son on Grand Junction Road, and they sold me hammerlocks rated at 2 tonne to link to each chain. They advised that even brand new Holden Commodores fitted with the factory heavy towing kit would not accept the correct rated D shackles, and hammerlocks are required)

Why were older cars POSITIVE EARTHED? The reason that positive ground was pretty well universally adopted was to stop insulation decay of the wiring. In earlier days the insulation around electrical cables was largely cotton and rubber based, and over a period of time the insulation would be eaten away by electrolytic action, that is electrons leaching through the wiring, causing the insulation to break down.

Apparently Henry Ford was one of the first to discover that if the batteries were connected positive to ground, the insulation lasted a lot longer.

With the eventual development of plastic insulation this was no longer a problem and with modern electronics of course it makes eminent sense to have negative ground. If you have an original car from the 1930's to 1950's that was positive ground, you must leave them that way, because the original voltage regulators have dis-similar metals in the vibrating points of the voltage regulator, and if you connect them the wrong way round the points will burn out prematurely. Also your radio is of course polarity sensitive.

Thanks to GVVCVC Member Barry Sweetman for this information


Run Reports Run organisers are requested to nominate someone on the run to provide an article for the Journal, and also someone to report on the run to meetings (preferably a separate person for each). A report sheet is available to assist in reporting and is on the web site at http://gawlercarclub.com/pdfs/run_report_template.pdf . Reports should include some statistics on number of cars and people on the run plus information of a general nature. Photos of the run are earnestly sought by the Editor and the Webmaster.

St Kilda Boardwalk Sunday 31 /08/2014 Bruce Williams

With 23 members attending this run we were lucky to have good weather as rain was forecast for later and welcome to the new members. The Boardwalk was very interesting and although shortened due to storm damage still amounted to about a kilometre return . The main building was a good location to have a coffee before the walk and a good place for a chat.

Most members had a fish and chips lunch at the Marina Kiosk which was doing a good trade at that time. After lunch a couple went to the Virginia Nursery and some others went to the Williams home at Hillbank for a cuppa. All those attending said that they enjoyed the days outing.

Old Car Day Monday September 1st 2014 History The Federation of British Historic Vehicles has promoted their “Drive-It Day” for the last 25 years. It is on the last Sunday in April and many owners now use it as the start to their season after the British winter so a lot of vehicles have their first run out of the year. In 2014, they estimated that 30,000 members of historic vehicle clubs participated.

In 2006 The National Motoring Heritage Day (NMHD) which is similar to the British Drive It Day was developed at the Annual General Meeting of the Australian Historic Motoring Federation AHMF. After much consideration in the AHMF, the NMHD was chosen to be the third Sunday in May each year and to be adopted in all Australian States and territories. The choice of this day would avoid any conflict with Mother's Day and allow Clubs to plan local events well ahead. (it should be noted that the AHMF appears to be Queensland Centric, and the month of May in Qld is ideal for them as it marks the move from the wet season to the dry season)

The Federation of Historic Motoring Clubs of SA (FHMCSA) chose not to go with the rest of Australia as this day clashed with the (then) Adelaide Cup long weekend, resulting in the older vehicles having to compete with heavy holiday traffic and other events held throughout the state on this weekend (including the Copper Coast Cavalcade) not to mention the wet weather which has caused the Adelaide Cup to be moved to March. Instead the FHMCSA chose to promote “Drive-It Day” on the first day of spring, 1st September, which aligns much more closely with the British concept of bringing the vehicles out after the winter layup.

The first SA Drive It Day was therefore on Saturday 1st September 2007. This was promoted by the Gawler Veteran Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club in the Events Calendar in the August 2007 edition of the “Journal” but no formal runs were organised even though the day was “classified as an official club run”. Two vehicles participated in a run to the Barossa Valley including lunch at Bethany. In 2008 the club organised a “meander” originating from Gawler, Elizabeth and Mallala to arrive at Clonlea Park for lunch. A report in the October 2008 Journal indicates that 9 vehicles came from Elizabeth, 8 from Mallala and probably a similar number from Gawler, making a total of about 30 vehicles. In 2009, at the prompting of the Federation, through Trevor Unsworth, we sent invitations to all clubs that we could contact, and the Federation promoted it through the minutes of meetings and their web site. All were invited to come to Bethany reserve. The event was on a Tuesday, and there were over 100 vehicles present representing 15 clubs. Since then it has become a regular fixed event on the Federation and Club calendar with 2013 being


on a Sunday and the most well attended with over 350 vehicles (700 plus people) at Bethany. This year, despite it being on a Monday and the weather being inclement, over 90 vehicles attended.

Organising the 2014 Old Car Day Most club runs are pretty straightforward to organise, and not much can go wrong. You determine the destination, organise with any hosts and organise feeding points, turn up on the day with the run sheets and it all happens. When things don’t go to plan, then it becomes more interesting.

For Old Car Day, the process is much more complex. The venue at Bethany has to be booked with the Barossa Council. They require a risk assessment of the event to be completed, and advice has to be given to emergency service organisations of the event and potential risks (eg health emergencies, vehicle fires etc etc). We are required to provide first aid officers and the names of these people are to be provided to the Council. They also require proof of Public Risk Insurance. This has to be done about 3 months in advance. If stalls are to be set up to sell food or other items, the risk assessment process is much more complex, with each stall operator to provide insurance details. We therefore do not provide for stalls for Old Car Day.

Then we have the publicity. An invitation is sent by email to all clubs listed with the Federation and is posted to all clubs that exchange club newsletters with us. Unfortunately this does not necessarily mean that club members get to hear about it. This year we received queries from members of a club very close to our area as to whether it was on, and investigation disclosed that the secretary of that club chose not to pass the invitation on to members.

The rest is pretty straight forward, advise the treasurer to pay the venue hire fee, nominate persons to manage the runs from Elizabeth, Gawler, and Mallala, and sort out parking marshalling, and pick up the key to the kitchen from the Council Office.

It usually runs pretty smoothly, but this year was rather more interesting in the background!

Sunday 31st August would have been a perfect day for the event, but it was not looking good for Monday 1st September with rain promised. At about 11am on Sunday I got a call from Fred who had organised the Mallala Run to say that he was unwell and could not attend. A quick call to Dennis ascertained that he was able to take over, and I arranged to drop in the run sheets that evening, and discovered that he was all ready to go with the Austin fired up and sitting on the forecourt ready for the next morning.

I was surprised when Dennis and Margaret turned up at the event in the modern. The Austin would not start due to rain overnight impacting on the electrics.

Sylvia and I took the Rover which went fine. We dropped in to the council to pick up the key and were advised that there had been a wedding the previous day at the reserve, and the hosts had inadvertedly taken the first aid kit home. I said that was OK as our first aid people had their own kits.

On arrival at Bethany, we found Gavin Launer already present wanting to set up a raffle tent. We opened up the kitchen and found that the hot water urn was missing, an essential part of our tea and coffee provision. I asked Dennis to run me into the Council to deal with this, but before leaving decided to take the wood out of the back of the Rover for the fire. The boot would not open, so we left that and headed into the office where I joined a queue of about 15 people paying their rates. Whilst in this queue I received a call from Ron and Barbara (Tea person) to advise that the Jaguar had broken down at Golden Grove and they would not be able to make it. Finally at the front of the queue the office person dealt with the urn issue and promised early delivery of same. I rang Mike Osborne and asked him to try and find a volunteer to staff the tea and coffee, and Dennis and I went to Foodland to purchase the makings.

We arrived back at Bethany to find Lesley hard at it boiling water in Saucepans and working out with Rupert Thorne how to safely move the water to the urn which had been delivered. Dennis (a Rover expert) and I then pontificated over how to open the Rover boot. An appropriately located thump with a fist caused it to open and we discovered that a log had rolled onto the boot catch. The thump was sufficient to relocate the log.

At the end of the day I was approached by a person who had picked up a mobile phone. Some fast detective work determined that it belonged to one of the First aid people who apparently is in the habit of leaving his phone on the grass! Arrangements were made to return the phone to Cheek avenue in Gawler East.


7th Annual “Old CAR DAY” Playford to Bethany by Dabtoe. After a brilliant weekend it was disappointing to wake up and see the rain clouds overhead onWattle Day the first day of spring.

By 0900 the rain was coming down at a steady drizzle at Fremont Park Elizabeth, by 0915 not to be deterred the hardy had assembled in 20 vehicles, our group numbers were down on previous years probably due to some having to go to work, or the not so hardy and put off by the weather.

0930 ready to roll, Trevor had handed out to all participants a sprig of Wattle to wear, and June thanked everyone from other clubs for supporting our part of the Gawler Club run i.e. Chrysler Club, Austin Seven Club, Holden Club, also along for the ride Rick Hoffman a delegate from the All British Day Committee, and a passing motorcyclist who saw us gathered and decided to come with us.

This year because of the inclement weather it was decided that we would travel the direct route via the Barossa Highway, 0945 everyone set off with June & Dave bringing up the rear in the backup vehicle, fully stocked, First aid box, Tow rope, (Dave not taking any chances) 10 litre’s spare fuel, (Martin Stephens is on this run) and jumper leads, tool box, fortunately we did not need them as our trusty mechanic Norm could not be with us due to work commitments

Arriving at Lyndoch we met up with other club members, Corrie’s group from Gawler and the group from the far outpost of Mallala, for those in need of a quick wee stop and for replenishment and sustenance of tea /coffee, cakes act for the remainder of the journey.

At this point the backup vehicle was called upon, the nice black and shiny Mercedes would not start (not sure if it qualifies for hard luck trophy this early) Out came the jumper leads, Martin came to the rescue in the Triumph, hood up, quick burst of BRITISH power and the Mercedes was on its way.

On arriving at Bethany the vehicles were parked up, and tables and chairs set up, then those participants who were interested wandered around looking at the vehicles and took the opportunity to talk to members from other clubs especially those who had travelled down in thirteen historic cars from Strathalbyn.

By lunch time the weather had drove most of us into the shed and into a marquee which was left conveniently overnight on the oval, the shed was quite warm as Alvin was keeping it well stoked up by chopping up and keeping the steady supply of timber, while keeping warm and watching him wield his mighty axe (BLUNT) we were thinking we might soon need the first aid box before long. (Note the First Aid Officer assisting!)

Overall I think everybody had an enjoyable outing, and hope next year we will have better weather! Although we should not grumble six out of seven not bad.

Playford Rollers: - Vauxhall, Holden Taxi, Morris 1100, Humber, Mercedes, Triumph 2000, Lancer, Austin, Norton M/c, Morris Mini Cooper, Rambler, Oldsmobile, Mercedes, Jensen. Dodge Mustang, Chrysler Royal, Chrysler Valiant, Austin 1800, Ford, and Hyundai Backup Vehicle.


Early Bird Run Sunday September 7th by TRUN Perfect weather for the September “Early Bird Run” to Kersbrook attracted a good attendance.

NARC 40th Anniversary Weekend G.V.V.C.V.C. Northern Correspondent, Martin Stephens Friday 8th August: Got really carried away and polished the car. The Cranney’s had phoned and said they would be unable to attend as planned owing to health problems so it was going to be an interesting weekend for us. Saturday 9th: Car started first time and then decided to peter out while waiting for Glenys to appear. Eventually all aboard and the car decided not to start despite generous amounts of cranking, very unusual. “I’m not pushing it down the street,” was the co-pilots comment so instead it was wheeled back behind the gates where after checking under the bonnet, and more cranking, I put another battery in it. More cranking until eventually it took the hint and started. Travelling to the “start” point at the Crystal Brook Oval was a snap, barely three minutes – and then another ten to reach the oval itself. At this point we were in the hands of the NARC officials and I must say they had things organised very efficiently with allocated numbers assigned and cars placed in designated spots on the oval according to age/type to facilitate entrant judging. When we looked into our information pack, along with some additional information and judging sheets, we were pleasantly surprised to find two mugs and a run plaque. Nice!

Altogether there were approximately seventy cars ranging from a 1917 Indian motorcycle combination through to a 1979 Mercedes 280 CE Coupe. Photos have been forwarded so will either appear with this article or onto the website. Although the weather was warm and sunny initially it did become a little overcast as the day wore on. Despite this we spent a relaxing day, enjoying the company and wandering around looking at the cars.

Meanwhile other show events, such as the sheep shearing, local musicians, sideshows (glad we weren’t paying!), etc, made for a pleasant day. The moment of truth came at about half past three, would it start? On the first turn almost, far more normal! Then, while other entrants moved on to a dinner and overnight stop at Clare, we returned home. Sunday 10th: Clare showgrounds (?), where they hold the Swapmeet. Triumph again started first time, wherever/whenever, and ran faultlessly making easy work of the “inner highway” via The Cattle Track, Koolunga, Brinkworth and Blyth. The atmosphere was again relaxed and a barbecue lunch, courtesy The Lions club, was duly served up. Overall it was a well organised weekend and no doubt we will partake of their hospitality in the future, but despite being good to talk to people from a variety of widely spread locations you guys haven’t seen the back of us yet - we’re Gawler Club members through and through!

1917 Indian

1930 Scott, 1952 Matchless, 1954 BSA,

1948 Velocette :

Some of the 1920 – 1930 vehicles

present:


1931-1940

Two of the 1941-1950 selection

The 50’s

The 60’s: Commercials:

:

The Pirie Club were at the oval,

complete with teardrop BBQ trailer

at Clare, 1962 Chrysler AP3 Royal with van and 1962 Dodge Lancer

FOR THE LOVE OF CARS Stirred up by the Austin Healey Club and SA’s HMVC, the voices of GVVCVC and MAPS members were added to protests about the sudden curtailment of a series on ABC 2. The program featured the purchase and restoration of several cars, such as a Series 1 Land Rover, a Triumph Stag, Mini Cooper and a TC MG. OK, so we could all finds faults in the production as well as marvel how restorations could be done so quickly, but there were plenty of laughs and we were waiting to hear how much the restored vehicles fetched when auctioned at the end of the series. ABC took the program off before we got to that. Several members emailed the ABC after being prompted by an E-Torque and received similar replies which indicate that someone actually noted the complaints! Well done everyone! Reply example below- Thank you for your email regarding For the Love of Cars, and for your appreciation of the show. I apologise for any disappointment caused by the schedule break that ABC TV has taken in this series, and for the lack of notice given regarding this decision. The series clearly has many fans amongst car enthusiasts and other viewers alike, and the emphatic community response has been noted and made available to ABC Television management. Regretfully the only information that I have regarding the show is that the remaining three episodes will be broadcast later this year. ABC Scheduling have yet to decide upon the date, so all that I can recommend is to keep an eye on the 'Coming Soon' section of the ABC TV website: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/, or to subscribe to ABC TV's online newsletter ‘Switched On' http://www.abc.net.au/tv/connect/newsletter.htm

Note that the series is available on DVD from the ABC shop even though the series is not completed.


The Evolution of the Parham Jinker By Alvin Jenkin Port Parham has always been a difficult place to launch boats due to the shallowness of St Vincent’s Gulf and the long tidal movement. Tidal rise and fall is up to about 2.7 metres and the low water mark is about 800 metres from the shore. At low water, the water depth does not exceed 500mm for another 800 or so metres. So on low water it is possible to walk 1600 metres from shore without the water level getting far above the knees, although the last 800 metres is a hard slog through mud.

At low water the first 800 metres of the floor of the gulf is a thin layer of sandy mud over rock immediately in front of the Port Parham township. This feature resulted in Port Parham becoming a Port in the early days of agriculture in the district when grain and wool was loaded onto flat bottom ketches at low water for shipping to Port Adelaide. The ketches would be brought in to just below the low water mark and grain and wool would be delivered to the ketch by horse and trolley and later by motor lorry, and then on the next tide the ketch would be afloat and would sail either on to another gulf port or back to Port Adelaide where the goods would be transhipped to a clipper for exporting to Europe. The photo shows both a horse cart and a lorry and was probably taken in the late 1920’s. The Lorry is thought to be a REO. This method of shipping was used from the 1860’s until 1948 when rail proved to be the most effective means of transport for such goods.

Recreational fishing in the Gulf St Vincent was mainly by dragnet up until the 1950s, with a few courageous souls sailing or rowing small cutters into deeper waters. Drag net fishing was shore based, usually done in the middle of the night, with the short straw being given the deep end to drag. Professional fishing was by ketches or cutters out of Port Adelaide accompanied by a couple of row boats. The Swain family were well known for their 2 masted ketch towing two row boats. The row boats were used to haul the drag net from the ketch in a circle from whence the catch was loaded on the ketch. This method persisted up until the 1980s when professional fishermen first used power boats.

In the 1950s the people of Australia were overcoming the post war austerity, and small powered pleasure boats became more plentiful. These typically had small inboard motors of various types and numbers of cylinders, a favourite being Ford 10. These boats were heavier than the cutters and row boats that were around the place, and launching such boats at Port Parham with its long flat of shallow water became an issue.

Disused farm tractors were used at first to launch such boats, but difficulties were encountered with the long exposure to salt water over the shallow access. At other locations where there is steep drop off into the water, tractors proved to be ideal as the boat trailer could be backed into the water and the tractor would suffer minimal immersion (Farm Beach near Coffin Bay on Eyre Peninsula is the classic example, so named because of the large number of tractors located there).

Various interesting techniques were developed for launching power boats. Dave Magery from Mallala was a very keen fisherman who had a property at Port Parham, and he used a 1920s Chev car with virtually no bodywork, wooden spoke wheels, and the chassis jacked about 400mm up from the axles. He probably used this for 10 years or more until his untimely death when his boat exploded at sea. Tom Whimpress was an electrician by trade and he toyed with self launching boats with 3 wheels and the front wheel driven by an electric motor. Bob Collins developed a boat trailer with the jockey wheel driven by a geared down Villiers motor on a pedestal.

The first serious attempt to build what is now known as the Parham Jinker was by Brian Algar of Mallala. He purchased a 1928 Oldsmobile from Dean Reid who was then apprenticed to Harry Curnow, the Mallala General Motors Dealer. In about 1958 he used this as the basis of high machine with the Oldsmobile motor and chassis about 2 metres above ground level with chain drive from the rear axle to another axle at ground level. I have strong memories of this device being parked at the rear of Algar’s shack in Prime Street, Port Parham, but I have been unable to find any photos, nor anyone who actually saw it being used. I suspect that there was some point of failure, and Brian did not persist in its development.

The first successful attempt to build a suitable device was by Bob Collins of Collins Garage at Dublin in about 1963. He used a Vanguard chassis and power train with an angle iron structure to provide height. The Vanguard back axle was turned 90 degrees and drove another Vanguard axle at ground level. The front axle was from a 1920s Dodge with the hubs modified to take Vanguard wheels.


This vehicle was taken to Len Webb’s premises at Port Parham, and was used by many people wishing to launch boats. It was affectionately known as the “Bobmobile” after its constructor. Bob would often get calls asking if the Bobmobile was available.

The Bobmobile still exists in almost its original state, although it is not functional. It has been donated to the community by its last owner, Peter Mattner, and has been retrieved from its resting place at Lyndoch. Plans are in hand to display it near the Port Parham Sports and Social Club on the entry to Port Parham.

The Bobmobile as found at Lyndoch and on its return to Port Parham,

After some time the prime users of the Bobmobile decided to build one their own. This second unit, built by Lenny Reed and Moe Canala, was powered by a Holden FJ grey motor, and also still exists in somewhat modified form , although again it is non functional. It is hoped to house this in the display also.

Over time several more such devices have been built, no two the same, until now there are over 100 at Port Parham, and probably a further 20 at Webb Beach. One has made an appearance at Port Germein.

They have been known variously as “high risers”, “Parham Giraffes” etc but the common term today is the “Parham Jinker”,

Reed/Canala Jinker

recognising the similarity in appearance to the timber jinkers used in the Port Adelaide area in the 1960s and 70s (today these jinkers would be called straddle cranes).

Most today are built on angle iron and I beam structures, are powered by Holden or Ford straight 6 motors coupled to automatic gearboxes driving Datsun 1600/180B differentials at the top to various axles at the bottom. Front ends (steering, suspension, wheels) are typically from pre Commodore Holdens are getting difficult to source. These front ends have a life expectancy of about 3 years in the salt water. A variety of options for braking are used, from none, to levers operating blocks of wood against the rear wheels, to brake drums and disks on the tailshaft or the axle side of the top differential

The “Jenkin Jinka” differs somewhat from the norm in that it has a Datsun 200B motor and manual gearbox (recovered from a car that went under 6 tides after being bogged off shore) driving a Datsun 1600 top diff with a brake hub on top. Over its 15 year life it has had 3 rear axles, Toyota HiAce, Mitsubishi L300, and current Ford Falcon XE. The front end is from a TC Cortina which was dumped in the salt lakes at the rear of Port Parham, and surprisingly, has lasted the full 15 years, but is in need of replacement if you can find one for me. The unique colour scheme comes from our family having a fine time with paint brushes one Easter.

Other unique launching machines have arisen over the years. They include a stripped self propelled header and currently an orchard tractor “on stilts”, built in Romania, is in use.

A rather interesting amphibious launching vehicle was developed in about 1988 at Thompsons Beach by one of the earliest residents of the development. Mirou was an electrician with an inventive bent. His vehicle consisted of two pontoons filled with nitrogen with a boat trailer bed in between to take a boat. The pontoons were placed on a set of axles at each end. The wheels on the rear set driven by a Datsun 200B motor


mounted on the front and were equipped with paddles to provide propulsion in the water. The front wheels on the front axle were steerable and gave direction both on land and in water. Unfortunately he had the steering mechanism such that you turned left to go right. The device worked and was quite suitable for launching at Thompsons Beach where there is little hard standing to take a Jinker. As often occurs with developing a new idea, several modifications were required to make it workable, including a fibreglass flotation tank under the motor to prevent the front end from sinking. . I am told that photos exist of it in use, but they have not yet surfaced.

Mirou subsequently returned to Croatia, his homeland, and sold the device and construction rights to Rod Newell of Port Parham. He never used it and it was sold on a couple of times to end up with Barry Evans on the Esplanade. The pontoons ultimately corroded and the device was scrapped.

Another device of interest made one appearance at Port Parham about 15 years ago. A large cabin cruiser appeared offshore and proceeded to come ashore under its own power. It had 3 wheels built into the hull driven by hydraulic motors and was driven under its own power onto a trailer built with 3 rails similar to a motorcycle trailer and was taken away. To my knowledge this was its only appearance at Port Parham.

An interesting fact is that the launching vehicles are supposed to be registered as Special Purpose Vehicles under the Road Traffic Act. This is similar to tractors and fork lifts etc and provides cover for third party personal injury. Restrictions apply: they are not permitted to exceed 25kph, nor are they permitted to carry passengers. They do not have to be inspected by Regency Park but the rego must be referred through them with a description, photographs, location of proposed use, and specification that they will be used as a “boat retrieval vehicle”. My thanks to Bob Collins, Len Reed, Dean Reid, Raelene Horgan and Rod Newell who provided information for this article, and the thanks of the community go to Peter Mattner for donating the Bobmobile and Greg Robinson for donating Jinker No 2 to be displayed

REMEMBER WHEN?? This photo was taken in 1983 at BP Wakefield Street.

In 1983 Average Weekly Earnings in Australia were $345. Fifty litres of super would have cost $24.45 or 7% of average income. In 2014 average weekly earnings are $1453. Fifty litres of unleaded at $1.40 costs $70.00 or 4.8% of average income. If we were still paying 7% of average income we would be paying $2.05 per litre. What are we whinging about?

The faces featured on the sign are the editor’s brothers. Geoff Jenkin to the left did his apprenticeship under club member Bob Collins at Collins Motors, Dublin and currently runs his own mobile mechanic business: “Dial a Mechanic”. To the right is Errol Jenkin, who did his apprenticeship under Geoff at BP Wakefield Street. Errol now works on Mazdas at Paradise Motors. Like his older brother (Alvin) he has owned a series of Renaults and Peugeots, and has dabbled in Rovers.

Some Rarities seen at the Bay to Birdwood


FOR SALE

1979 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow 2 All original, on board charger Includes chairs and picnic set $22,000 ono Jack 8524 7057 1408

Early ‘50s Standard Vanguard In family since new, off road since 1970s, but was driven 12 months ago, needs TLC, located in Wallaroo Bob 0432 619 232 1408

Land Rover Series 2A Good mechanical condition, set up for long distance travel extra 200 litre tank, UHF CB. Some cosmetic work needed. Currently on historic reg $4,000 ono Alan 0459 027 545 1408

Willys Jeep Parts post war from 1949 to 1953, probably CJ 3A with OHV 4 cylinder “Go-Devil” engine Engines, gear boxes, steering boxes, chassis, axles, panels etc etc Offers sought Rod 8529 2166 or 0414 471 814

Trailer Axles Disc brake axle 40mm square with Holden hubs and including the override towball coupling and cable $350. Standard axle 45mm square with Holden hubs $100 Both axles are 2340mm between hub faces and are 2 ½ years old and have probably done less than 5000 Km. Alvin 8529 2504 1408

Holden VT Calais 190,000 Km Immaculate Peter 0407 601 820 1408

2003 Holden Astra Ti Wrecking, parts available Marino 0428 526 574 1408

Mag wheels 7x15 4 wheels 2 very good tyres, 2 average Ex BMW but suits Commodore $200 the lot Andy 7329 2264 1410

2005 Holden Astra Sedan Manual Equipe Ex Condition, low Km, One owner,Blue Duco Reg no XGL 428 $7000 o.n.o Malcolm 8523 1992 mob 0415 007 482 1410

1968 MGB Radiator Good Condition $220 o.n.o Malcolm 8523 1992 mob 0415 007 482 1410

GVVCVC 10th Anniversary Plaque 1984-1994 $5.00 Colin 8332 9429 1410

Workshop Equipment Various equipment including Warren and Brown engine boring bar, Hercus 16 speed bench top drill, Black and Decker valve refacing machine and other specialty equipment Colin 0407 228 574 1410

1973 Bolwell Nagari B8/81 "UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE ONE OF ONLY 18 FACTORY BUILT NAGARI SPORTS. Known history from new. Fully rebuilt mechanicals, chassis, suspension, bodywork & interior with photographic records & receipts. High performance 302 Cleveland. 4 Speed Top Loader. 5x original Bolwell alloy wheels Leather seats. Tonneau cover. Mercedes cloth hood. This car is highly regarded, well presented in original style, fully sorted, and drives accordingly. Car is located in Adelaide and is currently on club registration.. OFFERS OVER $70,000 INVITED." Ross: email [email protected] 1410

Austin 1800 Front Seats Tim 8389 1286 1408

Rover P5 3 Litre Mark 1 Glass surround for instruments (or full instrument panel) Alvin 8529 2504 1408

Holden HQ 1 Tonner Hood lining bows Simon 0449 543 296 1408

Mini 1 wheel rim and 3 hub caps Robert 0406 225 034 1410

MGB • 14” Wheel Mask for MG Rostyle wheels • Hard Top for tourer Stan 8284 7864 1410

“ALL BRITISH DAY” plaques pre 1991 also 10th

Anniversary. Any small AMC branded spanners for motorcycle tool kit. Dave 8254 8261 1410

Genuine Specials

Arfa will run his specials for two issues of the Jo urnal unless advised otherwise


Abridged Minutes of GVVCVC Meetings TUESDAY, 19th August 2014 • 125 members attended. 29 members sent their apologies. 3 visitors were in attendance with 1 giving a description of his vehicle. • C Wake was appointed Events Director with help from R Carr. T Bellchambers and B Williams offered to co-ordinate

Wednesday Runs. T Bellchambers appointed Publicity Officer. CORRESPONDENCE: In - Various including Federation Minutes and Monaro National Invitation Out - Sympathy cards to C Wake and M Williams CLUB EVENTS: - T Unsworth gave report and thanked Club members for help at Scout Rally, - Members encouraged to attend Annual Dinner- 1st September Old Car Day - 14th September Swap Meet – helpers required and to meet Saturday 13th at 12 noon to set up - Invitation for cars at Balaklava Show 27th September REGISTRARS: Currently Club has 348 vehicles registered. Members to note that, if a vehicle is sold, the Log Book must be returned to the Registrars MEMBERSHIP: Vicki Luke, Bob and Evelyn Dwyer were welcomed into full membership EDITOR: Members 2014 Directory now available. Request for member profiles for Journal SWAP MEET: All members were urged to help at Swap Meet with a briefing on Saturday 12 noon. Rostered helpers were asked to sign in prior to the commencement of their shift on Sunday. Issues were raised as to car parking and handover of money. President Mike to speak to relevant parties and monitor GENERAL BUSINESS: - T Evans gave final update of Project car - A mystery item was passed around for identification - Next meeting will be the Club Auction

TUESDAY, 16th SEPTEMBER 2014 111 members attended.: 22 members sent their apologies. 8 visitors were in attendance with 6 giving a description of their vehicles. TREASURER’S REPORT: Presented:The books for last financial year have bee audited CORRESPONDENCE: In: various including Veteran and Vintage Motor Cycle Club invitation, Milang Power Rally, Strathalbyn Car Show, Jaguar Drivers Club invitation, Roseworthy Museum Open Day CLUB EVENTS: - The meeting was informed of Club awards : - Presidents Award – T Evans - Hard luck Trophy – C McCracken- T Bellchambers gave report on St Kilda Run - 27th September invitation for vehicle display at Gawler Railway Station- 8th October Run to Mt Barker - 26th October visit Clem Smith Museum- 2nd November Run to Sevenhill Open Garden REGISTRARS: Club has 351 vehicles on Historic Registration MEMBERSHIP: Mark and Morag Henderson and 2 children welcomed into full membership which now totals 502 members SWAP MEET: President Mike reported a successful Swap Meet with the most sellers sites on record. All went smoothly with thanks-yous to all volunteers who helped on Saturday, Sunday and behind-the-scenes. Some public parking issues were raised as were signage directives . A pick-up area was also suggested. A review of the Swap Meet will be undertaken by the Committee EDITOR: Member Directories are available for $2. Member profiles and car stories required for Journal RAFFLE: A total of 40 books were sold at Bethany Old Car Day and at the Swap Meet. A good response by members has so far returned $3,200 with almost half of the tickets allocated. Thanks were expressed to the helpers who volunteered to help sell GENERAL BUSINESS: The All British Day Committee has invited the Gawler Club to be the marque Club next year. Members were urged to support this prestigious event Meeting closed at 8.14 p.m. followed by the Club auction which raised $310-10.

VEHICLE IDENTITY PLACARDS These Placards must be ordered through the Editor. They are laminated, making then reasonably robust. Cost is $2.40 for the placard which will be made to order and delivered at club meetings. Order your vehicle identification placard by posting a note with year, make, model and preferred owner name(s) together with four 60cent stamps for each placard to Alvin Jenkin, PO Box 199, Dublin SA 5501. Please specify if you require A4 or A3 size

GVVCVC Metal Car Badges are now available Metal badges suitable for fitting to your vehicles are now available. These quality badges carry the Gawler Veteran Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club emblem and are $25 from our merchandise officer Kingsley Branson

Note: Photo is representative only. Those currently for sale may not be the same as this one

Available to Members The following are available to members, Car carrying trailer : Contact Peter 8522 5248 . Note, the trailer is available to members only at a charge of $20 per day. Club Marquee: contact Corrie 8522 2373 Club merchandise, contact Kingsley 8522 3457 Vehicle Identity Placards Contact Alvin 85292504 Club Directory : Contact Alvin 85292504


Contributions to The Journal and to the Club Web Si te

Contributions to both the Journal and the Web site are welcomed.

Contributions may be in any format. They may be handwritten, typewritten, or photocopied documents, or even a telephone call or they may be computer files

Paper copies can be given to the editor at meetings or runs, or posted to A Jenkin, PO Box 199, Dublin, SA 5501. Photographs will be returned once they have been copied, but please clearly identify your ownership either by using soft pencil or marker on the rear, or placing in a sealed envelope with your name on the front.

Computer literate people can email contributions to [email protected] . MSWord is the preferred format for text and photos as .jpg files, preferably less than 100KB in size. Memory sticks and CDs are also accepted.

Website: Photos of club events, reduced to less than 100KB in size can be emailed to [email protected] and these will be placed on the club’s website www.gawlercarclub.com

Deadlines : Contributions will be accepted up to midday on the third Friday of the month before the publishing months: February, April, June, August, October and December

Registration and use of Historic Vehicles under The Log Book System

Preamble The system of historic registration of qualifying vehicles in S.A. is an excellent system that promotes the use of Historic Vehicles by Club Members in the enjoyment of their hobby. As, Historic Registration is only available to members of a recognized Club then it is the expectation of the Club that Members will use a small portion of the logged outings to participate in some Club Activities using their Historic Registered Vehicles.

By-law 001 It is the expectation of the G.V.V.& C.V.C .that as a Member with Club Historic Registered Vehicle/s that you will attend and participate in at least three (3) Club Activities during a Club Calendar Year with one or more of your vehicles to qualify for re-issue of your club membership. Where there are special circumstances, you may present your Log Book and appeal to the Club Historic Registrars or Committee for their consideration.

Accepted by Committee: 22/ 2/2000 Ratified at General Meeting: 21/ 3/2000 modified by Committee 27/1/2009

I m p o r t a n t Your Log Book must be signed each year by 30 June by one of the club registrars. It is your responsibility to present your Log Book, current registration, Statutory Declaration and membership receipt. Fees The membership fee is due by 1st July every year. Renewals shall be on the prescr ibed renewal form which is posted in April to all financial members. Membership will cease if the membership fee remains unpaid thirty days after the due date. The Committee may re-admit the person upon payment of the joining fee plus the outstanding membership fee. DISCLAIMER Opinions expressed in the Journal are not necessarily those of the Gawler Veteran, Vintage and Classic Vehicle Club or its editor. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material submitted, errors and omissions may (and will accidentally) occur. Enquiries to the Editor: Alvin Jenkin, 8529 2504 email: [email protected] .


Vice President Mark presents President’s award to Trevor Evans and Hard Luck trophy

to Colin McCracken at the Annual Dinner

Display at Scouts Rally

Another ticket sold at the Bay to Birdwood

Seen at Old Car Day at Bethany

bob collins and the “bobmobile” parham jinker · bob collins and the “bobmobile” parham...

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