THE DISTRIBUTOR - FJ Holden Owners Club of NSW

Transcription

THE
DISTRIBUTOR
37th YEAR OF PUBLICATION
CATERING FOR
UNMODIFIED 48 & FJ
HOLDENS
ISSUE 429
PO BOX 5261, GREYSTANES N.S.W. 2145
EMAIL: [email protected]
FEBRUARY 2012
Page 2
FEBRUARY 2012
CLUB DIRECTORY
CLUB NAME
POSTAL ADDRESS
AIMS OF THE CLUB
CLUB MEETINGS
CLUB RUNS
MEMBERSHIP
NOTE
AFFILIATIONS
LIFE MEMBERS
GOLD MEMBERS
48 & FJ HOLDEN OWNERS CLUB OF NSW INCORPORATED (est 1973)
PO BOX 5261 GREYSTANES, N.S.W. 2145
The restoration, preservation and use of unmodified 48 series & FJ Holden
vehicles made 1948 - 1956, as well as providing a meeting place for owners
to obtain and exchange technical advice.
Held on the 3rd Monday of each month, commencing at 8pm. At the Scout
Hall, in Boothtown Reserve, Gipps Rd, Greystanes, NSW. Visitors are
always welcome.
Usually held 3rd Sunday of each month. For more information refer to
“Motoring ‘round” pages in the Distributor magazine each month.
In addition to the Annual subscription, a one-off fee of $22.00 is to be paid
upon joining the club. The Annual subscription fee is $45.00 due on the 1st
January each year (includes monthly Distributor magazine, runs, meetings,
displays, sticker, Insurance and technical information).
Only vehicles listed as per membership form with this club, are permitted
to display at official club displays.
General Motors Day, Display Committee - 12/3/1976.
Council of Motor Clubs Incorporated. (CMC) - 2/2/1981.
Stan Bennett and Graham Bailey.
Geoff Smith, Terry Thompson, Bevis Apps, Bryan Horne, Jim Hull, Judith
Azzopardi and John Azzopardi.
2012 COMMITTEE - These positions attend Committee Meetings.
PRESIDENT: Jim Watts
VICE PRESIDENT: Jeff Magnoli
SECRETARY: Judith Azzopardi
TREASURER: Debbie Smith
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: John Azzopardi
GENERAL COMMITTEE: David Stephens,
Wayne Smith, John Azzopardi
MAGAZINE EDITOR: Kris Magnoli
CONDITIONAL PLATES REGISTRAR:
Debbie Smith
CONDITIONAL PLATES INSPECTOR:
Bryan Horne
EVENTS DIRECTOR: Ian Young
(02) 4823 5619
(02) 4572 3539
(02) 9622 0285
(02) 9864 4403
(02) 9622 0285
[email protected]
(02) 4572 3539
[email protected]
(02) 9864 4403
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
(02) 4681 9238
(02) 9631 5366
The following positions do not attend Committee Meetings PROPERTY OFFICER: David Stephens
CMC DELEGATE: Bryan Horne
GM DELEGATE: Ray Rowe
PUBLIC OFFICER: James Watts
CATERING OFFICER: Pamela Watts
WELFARE OFFICER: Pamela Watts
CATERING FOR ALL UNMODIFIED 48 & FJ SERIES HOLDENS
CLUB MOTTO—”WE KEEP HOLDEN ON”
48 & FJ HOLDEN OWNERS CLUB OF NSW INCORPORATED
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FEBRUARY 2012
PRESIDENT’S REPORT
“KEEP HOLDEN ON” EVERYONE FEBRUARY 2012
The AGM for 2012 is done and dusted and it was a good result for the retiring
committee members, with all committee members being re elected.
A big ‘Thank You’ to the members who attended to cast their votes. It is encouraging to
the committee to see more members attending each month. It also gives the members
an opportunity to ask questions or get help with a car problem. Not to mention a few
laughs. Besides the supper provided by the ladies is well worth the drive.
Motorfest 2012 was not as well attended as in previous years which could only be
attributed to the forecast of a wet day. The numbers were down including the
spectators. There is always next year.
A reminder to our Social members that they retain all of their rights and benefits they
had prior to the acceptance of the new constitution.
Members who are considering joining us in participating in the Wagga Rally which is
held on the long week end in June, 10th – 13th, should let Pam know as there are a few
rooms available but when these rooms are taken, there won’t be any more available as
this is a very popular weekend with cars from all over the state. So it is a case of first in
best dressed.
Also don’t forget the Bay to Birdwood run in September. This is a ‘must do before you
die’ event. The important thing is to let Pam know so that she can secure
accommodation at West Beach which is always in demand as it is opposite the rally
point for all participants. The actual route will be finalised at the end of July and all
participants will be given an itinerary which will include motels and tariffs.
With the appointment of a Welfare Officer at the AGM , namely Pam, she will be
sending ‘Get Well’ cards and making enquiries about members who are unwell and how
they are progressing and then passing on the information to the committee and
members at the monthly meetings. If you know of a member who is not travelling well
let Pam know.
President’s address at AGM.
Welcome to everyone and thank you for coming to participate in the election of a new
committee for 2012.
The outgoing committee have worked very hard for the club in the past year and the
most memorable achievement was getting a new up-to-date Constitution passed by the
membership.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Congratulations to everyone and especially the membership for their desire to have a
new constitution.
The club had a very successful year for events including participating in the 50th
Anniversary of the Dish in Parkes. This weekend would have to be one we will all
remember.
The Wagga Wagga weekend was also enjoyed by all who participated. The Wagga Club
do a fabulous job organising the run and feeding all of the participants –
Congratulations to their committee.
The members who ventured out in the rain to attend the Oberon weekend thoroughly
enjoyed themselves, especially the drive to Jenolan Caves and the nice lunch in the
dining room. It was good to see Garry O’Reilly travel from Portland to meet up with us.
We all enjoyed dinner together on Saturday night.
Judith has performed the duties of Secretary in her usual par excellent manner. Thank
You.
Debbie has kept a very close eye on the club’s monies and her accounting for any
expenditure is above reproach. Thank You.
Kristina had taken on the duties of Magazine Editor very confidently and made her own
changes to add interest. Thank You.
Ian is always keeping an eye out for new and different club runs for us all to enjoy.
Thank You.
To ALL of the members who were very generous with their donations towards the raffle
which raised $800.00. A particularly huge ‘Thank You’ because without a collective
effort by everyone, it would not have been as successful as it was.
Also to Kristina for selling tickets at our Display Day and other members who also sold
tickets to family members, friends and others -Thank you.
Finally I wish everyone a terrific 2012,
enjoying club outings and to you and your
families good health and happiness.
Jim Watts 433
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FEBRUARY 2012
FROM THE EDITOR...
Do you have anything of interest or a short story you would like included in the
magazine, please don’t hesitate to contact me via phone or email.
Remember - If you would prefer to receive your Club Magazine via email (in full colour)
rather than in hardcopy, please let me know –
Email: [email protected]
THIS IS YOUR CLUB…
so come along to the Club Meetings
and enjoy the great events we have
organized for 2012.
For those members who have not renewed
their 2012 membership - this will be your last
magazine.
Take care, Kris
PLEASE NOTE – as I will be taking a holiday in March, there will be no March
Magazine. The next magazine will be a combined March/April edition.
MARCH
BIRTHDAYS
8th
17th
20th
22nd
25th
Liam Azzopardi
Craig Bennett
Ann Gardner
Ian Mason
Edward Cook
David McMurray
Stirling Shaw
Page 6
FEBRUARY 2012
MINUTES OF GENERAL MEETING NO. 453
HELD ON 20th FEBRUARY 2012 AT THE CLUBROOMS,
BOOTHTOWN RESERVE, GIPPS ROAD, GREYSTANES, NSW.
Jim Watts opened Meeting No.453 at 8.00 pm.
Minutes of Meeting No 452 as printed in the January 2012 issue of “The Distributor”
magazine.
Accepted by Robert Shaw.
Seconded by Pamela Watts.
Business Arising:
Nil
Members Present:
John Azzopardi, Judith Azzopardi, Matthew Bottle, Ted Ashton, Bryan Horne, David
Stephens, Ray Rowe, Jim Watts, Pam Watts, Jeff Magnoli, Geoff Smith, Dennis
Gardner, George Paulides, Kris Magnoli, Robert Shaw, Paul Shears, Paul Gianniotis,
Graeme Kells, Ian Young, Adam Magnoli, Garry O’Reilly, Warren Ross, Wayne Smith,
Debbie Smith.
Apologies:
Ian Mason, Ian King, Vince Azzopardi, Ken Rodger, Daniel Dersenboom, Howard
Smith, Lyn Rowe, Ann Gardner, David McMurray, Kim McMurray, Allan Forbes,
Stirling Shaw, John Service, Jennifer Young.
Visitors:
Melissa Bottle, Terry Smith, George Gianniotis, John Kells.
Nominations for the Chairman for the Annual General Meeting were called.
John Azzopardi nominated James Watts, seconded by Judith Azzopardi. There were
no other nominations received, James Watts accepted the position. There is no
conflict as all positions will be vacant.
The General Meeting was then paused for the Chariman to begin the AGM.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting was opened by James Watts at 8:10 pm.
Minutes of Annual General Meeting dated 21st February 2011 and published in the
February 2011 issue of “The Distributor” magazine.
Accepted by Kristina Magnoli.
Seconded by Adam Magnoli.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Business Arising: Nil.
All positions were declared vacant. All participants at this meeting are to be financial
for the year 2012. The Membership Secretary John Azzopardi verified each member in
the room was financial. Voting is by secret ballot, where more than one Candidate is
nominated for any Committee position. An appointment for any position would be
accepted by a majority of one (1) or more.
Two Committee members from the last Committee Meeting have been chosen as
Returning Officers they are Wayne Smith and David Stephens. One ordinary member
was selected from the floor tonight to Scrutineer, Robert Shaw accepted the position.
All the 2011 Committee Members are to remain in their positions until the conclusion
of tonight’s Meetings.
The Chairman asked if all members had signed the Minute Book and all apologies had
been recorded.
The list of Nominations and proxy holders were displayed on the Whiteboard behind
the President and Secretary.
The Committee has approved the position of Welfare Officer. The position will be put
forward tonight for nominations.
The outgoing President delivered his end of year summary for 2011. This will be
printed in “The Distributor” - President Report.
The Treasurer, Debbie Smith tabled the 2011 Audit. Debbie then read out her Annual
Report as below:
This year the Committee and members have done a great job with raising money to
keep the club in a good financial position as we head into another year. This has been
achieved by donations and keeping our expenditure to a minimum. (Profit of
$2243.56.)
Fundraising for 2011 (last year):




Monthly meeting raffle - to all the members that donated prizes throughout the
year and the member’s support purchasing tickets each month, thank you for your
support.
Chocolate fundraiser- thank you Jim and Pam for selling 10 boxes of chocolates and
all the members that helped sell them to their family and friends. Thank you.
Display Day Raffle - the support the raffle received by members helping by
purchasing tickets and donating items for the baskets, made this raffle the great
success that it was. Thank you all.
I would like to thank Pam for supplying the tea/coffee and supper throughout the
year and all the members who supplied cakes and goodies on the meeting nights.
Thank you all.
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

FEBRUARY 2012
We had a lovely Christmas luncheon with lucky door prizes which were donated by
Warren. A big thank you to Warren.
Without the support of the members, no matter how small the contribution is, it
was very much appreciated, so thank you all.
The Secretary gave a brief outline of her year:
I have enjoyed my position of Secretary in 2011. My fellow committee members have
worked hard to leave the club in a solid state for 2012. Our fundraising has been a
success thanks to all the members who donated, and worked in many ways to get our
finances in a healthy way to start 2012.
The new Constitution has now been lodged and came into effect from the 7th
February, 2012. It only had small changes but it is now in an easier format to
understand. I look forward to another prosperous Club year. Thank you all Judith.
Voting for the 2012 Committee Positions then commenced:
Proxy’s were declared and the following members held proxy’s for financial members
unable to attend –
Ian Young. One proxy to vote on all matters.
David Stephens. One proxy to vote on all matters.
John Azzopardi. Two proxy’s to vote on all matters.
Judith Azzopardi. One proxy to vote on all matters.
Pam Watts. Two proxy’s to vote on all matters.
Jim Watts, One proxy to vote on all matters.
PRESIDENT James Watts nominated by Pamela Watts, seconded by Dennis Gardner.
No other nominations received. James Watts elected unopposed.
VICE PRESIDENT Jeffery Magnoli nominated by Kristina Magnoli seconded by Debbie Smith.
No other nominations received. Jeffery Magnoli elected unopposed.
SECRETARY Judith Azzopardi nominated by Ken Rodger seconded by Dennis Gardner.
No other nominations received. Judith Azzopardi elected unopposed.
TREASURER Debbie Smith nominated by Wayne Smith seconded by John Azzopardi.
No other nominations received. Debbie Smith elected unopposed.
GENERAL COMMITTEE Wayne Smith nominated by Debbie Smith seconded by John Azzopardi.
David Stephens nominated by Howard Smith seconded by Pamela Watts.
John Azzopardi nominated by Wayne Smith seconded by Debbie Smith.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Ray Rowe nominated by Ian Young seconded by Jeffery Magnoli.
Because there were only 3 positions vacant for General Committee a vote was taken.
The result was for General Committee is Wayne Smith, David Stephens and John
Azzopardi
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY John Azzopardi nominated by Geoff Smith seconded by Paul Gianniotis.
No other nominations received. John Azzopardi elected unopposed.
MAGAZINE EDITOR Kristina Magnoli nominated by Jeffery Magnoli seconded by Debbie Smith.
No other nominations received. Kristina Magnoli elected unopposed.
HCRS REGISTRAR Debbie Smith nominated by Wayne Smith seconded by Ann Gardner.
No other nominations received. Debbie Smith elected unopposed.
HCRS INSPECTOR Bryan Horne nominated by Bryan Horne seconded by Debbie Smith.
No other nominations received. Bryan Horne elected unopposed.
EVENTS DIRECTOR Ian Young nominated by Ray Rowe seconded by Jeffery Magnoli.
No other nominations received. Ian Young elected unopposed.
PROPERTY OFFICER David Stephens nominated by Howard Smith seconded by Pamela Watts.
No other nomination received. David Stephens elected unopposed.
PUBLIC OFFICER James Watts nominated by Pamela Watts seconded by Dennis Gardner.
No other nomination received. James Watts elected unopposed.
CMC DELEGATE Bryan Horne nominated by Judith Azzopardi seconded by Matthew Bottle.
Bryan Horne accepted. No other nominations received. Bryan Horne elected
unopposed. Another Delegate was asked for there were no other nominations. Only
one Delegate will represent the club.
GM DELEGATES Ray Rowe was asked would he continue to be the club’s delegate. Ray accepted. No
other applicants nominated. Ray Rowe elected unopposed.
ALL HOLDEN DAY DELEGATES Nominations were called for. There were no nominations. The club does not have a
Delegate.
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FEBRUARY 2012
CATERING OFFICER John Azzopardi nominated Pamela Watts seconded by David Stephens. Pamela Watts
accepted. No other nominations received. Pamela Watts elected unopposed.
WELFARE OFFICER John Azzopardi nominated Pamela Watts seconded by Judith Azzopardi.
Pamela Watts accepted. No other nominations received. Pamela Watts elected
unopposed.
The Annual General Meeting was closed by James Watts at 8.35PM.
We then went straight back to the General Meeting 453.
Jim Watts re-opened General Meeting No. 453 at 8.35 pm.
CORRESPONDENCE:
Magazines Inward –
EJ-EH Owners and Drivers Club of NSW. January.
The Depender, Austin Motor Vehicle Club of NSW. January & February.
FB-EK Car Club of NSW. October (2011).
An Original Point of View, Early Holden Club of New Zealand. January.
Coota Hoota, Cootamundra Antique Motor Club. February.
Holden Torque, 48 – 78 Holden Car Club NSW Hunter Halley.
Illawarra Early Holden Club, February.
Lions Pride Holden Car Club, January/February.
In General Terns, Holdens of Age Club, Victoria. January/February.
FX-FJ Car Club of Canberra. February.
Twin Fin, FB-EK Holden Car Club of Victoria. February.
FX-FJ Holden Club of Australia, Sydney Chapter. January.
FX-FJ Holden Club of Australia, Melbourne Chapter. February.
Mail Inward –
Membership renewals handed to the membership secretary.
January Bank Statement handed to the Treasurer.
Proxy’s for AGM.
Cootamundra Antique Club invitation to long distance run, November, 2012.
Entry Form re Highlands Steam & Vintage Fair, Oberon. 10th to 12th February, 2012.
Invitation to Moonbi/Kootingal Motor Show & Historic Machinery Exhibition, 10th &
11th March, 2012.
Chiltern Tourism re 13th Annual Chiltern Cancer Cruise 15th April, 2012.
CMC Affiliation Renewal Form.
Fair Trading – Receipt for lodgement of our new Constitution.
Fair Trading confirming our new Constitution became effective from the 7th February,
2012.
Page 11
FEBRUARY 2012
Mail Outward Magazines to Corresponding Clubs.
Emails Inwards –
Cudgegong Cruisers Invitation to Can Cruise, 10th March, 2012.
J. Rinkin re meeting at Bunnings Warehouse, Villawood, to discuss BBQ fundraiser.
Kristina Magnoli informed us she would attend the Bunnings Meeting.
Emails Outward Nil.
REPORTS:
Treasurer –
The Treasurer presented the report, there were no questions.
Approval was given to pay any outstanding accounts.
The report was tabled for members to view until the end of the meeting.
Accepted – David Stephens.
Seconded – Ted Ashton.
Membership Secretary –
Membership Renewals received. $495.00 handed to Treasurer for banking.
Tonight is the final night for 2012 Membership renewals as per new Constitution.
There will be a 21 day period of time to renew the membership (12th March, 2012)
because this is the first year of the rule.
CMC –
Nothing to report. Bryan reminded us the Federation Meeting is on Sunday 26th
February, 2012.
GM Display Day–
Nothing happening since last month. Everything is ready to go, Ray said this year’s
special display will be commercial vehicles. Ray said he would like to contact Frank
Robinson and invite him to display his Panel Van. Entry will be from 8am. Cost $10.00
per car. Please bring correct money to save giving change.
Historic Conditional Plate Movements –
26/1/2012
10-12/2/2012
20/2/2012
36757H
25574H
36757H
35870H
25574H
Goulburn to Sydney (NRMA Motorfest) and return.
Menai to Sydney (NRMA Motorfest) and return.
Goulburn to Oberon and return.
Glossodia to Oberon and return.
Menai to Greystanes (Club Meeting) and return.
Page 12
FEBRUARY 2012
Events –
Please see Motoring ‘round section of ‘The Distributor’ for all club runs and events.
Ian asked Pam Watts to give us an NRMA Motorfest story. It seems our Pam was a
media star on the day. She caused some laughter in the telling.
Ian then asked David Stephens to give us a report on the Oberon weekend. It
sounded like they all had a good day at Jenolan Caves. David said going down the hill
towards Jenolan Caves he heard a tick, tick, tick from the rear of his car. He was told
to turn his hubcaps a little and see if that did the trick, David did that and silence
prevailed from then on. It is surprising that such a small thing could cause concern.
Geoff Smith said that had happened to him but his hubcap actually came off.
Both these runs will be in the club magazine.
Ian said this month’s run is to Oakdale on the 26/02/2012.
On 25th March, 2012 we are joining another club for our monthly run. We are going
to Mittagong for lunch at the lake. Meeting place will be Service Centre on the M5 at
Pheasants Nest to leave at 9AM sharp.
Ian has Entry Forms tonight for the Wagga Wagga Weekend on the
Queen’s Birthday long weekend, if you wish to join those going, please see Ian tonight
for a form or get in touch with him and he will post you a form. We leave on Friday
Morning and return on Monday.
Geoff Smith thanked Pam for booking his accommodation for him at Oberon when
the Big Trout lost our booking and the rooms were not available at the last minute.
Geoff said he really enjoyed the company and had a good weekend. Geoff asked if
the run to the Birdwood Classic in South Australia was still happening, Pam Watts said
yes, the accommodation has been booked and if anyone would like to go please see
her. It is a must do run at least once.
Paul Gianniotis said he will be in Canberra with his hot air balloon from the 9th till the
18th March in case anyone is interested. He said depending on the weather and the
amount of customers he has, you could get a free flight. He will be flying over the lake
and the Canberra suburbs. Paul explained the balloon goes up very early in the
morning and customers do have to help.
General Business –
Jim Watts announced that the Committee has awarded a Gold membership this year
to John Azzopardi. He gave a brief outline of John’s commitment to the club in the 15
years he has been an ordinary member and a Committee Member for 11 years. A
badge will now be ordered. John thanked Jim for the kind words.
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FEBRUARY 2012
Ray Rowe asked for the count of the Constitution he said it was not in the Magazine.
Jim Watts said it was in the Official Minutes Book which is on display during every
General Meeting for any member to view. Jim explained the result and mentioned we
do not have to display any private business for all other clubs who receive our
magazine to view. That is why the Treasurers Report is not presented in the
magazine. Club magazines which our club receives, only give an outline of their
minutes for the same reason.
Ian Young said he has been to visit with John Service, and found out John has now
finished his radiation and is not feeling very good after a very bad
time. John is now hoping he can start to improve as time passes. All our members
wish him well.
Tech Talk –
Paul Gianniotis had two large bolts which he passed around for members to view they were the bolts that secure the sub-frame to the chassis. Paul asked the members
if they had an outside mirror, he needs a round mirror for his car as his is broken - he
is prepared to buy one if one is available.
Ian Young asked if anyone knew how many bird emblems where made for the FJ
bonnet. He had three with him tonight all marked GMH but none are interchangeable
with each other. A lot of ideas were discussed. Ian left them on the table in front of
him for members to look at later. Warren Ross said his father had several sets and
they were not interchangeable either.
Geoff Smith passed around a strip of compressed cardboard and asked did anyone
know what it was used for. The answer was it was for tacking the windlace and the
headlining to the car around the doors.
Geoff also found a badge that he knew he had somewhere from many years ago and
has now found it. It was a 1928 badge that Holden attached to Holden bodies.
Ray Rowe has Bosch points and 6 watts globes still available.
Robert Shaw had heard that when putting a metal replacement timing gear in your
vehicle it could be noisy as the teeth did not mesh with the small gear. Robert said
Rare Spares are selling the two gears together as a set which should solve the
problem.
John Azzopardi said his Austin A90 ‘Atlantic’ does not have seatbelts. He said he has
the solution to make it safe. He then handed around a joke with two old people in a
car and the female passenger had a mouth gag. Obviously meant to be wife Judith. As
we all know Judith does like to talk!
Page 14
FEBRUARY 2012
Geoff Smith when he put his new engine in his Ute, noticed when he got to 45 on his
speedo the car would almost stall. After putting a new carby kit on it now starts first
time and after sitting for weeks it will kick over first time.
Raffle 1st Prize – Jim Watts.
2nd Prize – Matthew Bottle.
3rd Prize – John Azzopardi.
Before closing the meeting the President said he had good news. Matthew and Melissa
Bottle who are with us tonight are having their first baby later this year. The members are
extremely pleased to hear this news as all our new arrivals seem to be Grandchildren.
Congratulations Matt and Mel. Your life will change forever in a wonderful way.
Meeting closed by Jim Watts at 9:40 pm.
UPCOMING SWAP MEETS
Sunday, 11th March 2012
Oberon Swap
Oberon Showground, Ross Street,
Oberon
Entry - $2.00
Morisset - Central Coast Swap
Morisset Showground, Ourimbah
Street, Morisset
Take Morisset exit from the F3 and
turn left at McDonalds). Gates open
6:00 am.
Hunter Valley Swap
Cessnock Showground
Sunday, 1st April 2012
Goulburn Swap
Goulburn Showground, Braidwood
Road, Goulburn
Entry - $4.00. Gates open 6:00 am.
Page 15
FEBRUARY 2012
The Red Centre Tour
(another long drive in an old car – part V)
Story by Robert Shaw
Then the lamb ram sheep horns began to blow
And the trumpets began to sound.
Joshua commanded the people to shout
And the walls came tumbling down.
In the morning, after an oil change and grease in the pub’s back yard, we talked some
more with the Jericho publican. It was only then that I read the name “Jordan Valley
Hotel”, and then asked him, “I thought you’d have had a ram’s horn trumpet on the
back wall of the bar.” The publican said not a word, and handed me the Jericho Crystal
Trumpet. Some of the locals got together a few years back, and erected this big
monument-cum-roadside attraction telling the story of the Exodus and Conquest. I
really should have been paying more attention.
There had been some
rain overnight, but as we
headed east through
Alpha and then on to
Emerald, the rain hurled
down, and the
passenger’s rear floor
filled with water from a
perished grommet under
the back seat. And yes,
Emerald was very green
indeed. From Emerald,
the road led south
through uneven and very
green countryside to the
Carnarvon Gorge turnoff. The road in was paved only for a few miles, but by now I
wasn’t worried about mud and potholes.
If you stay at Carnarvon Gorge, it’ll most likely be at the Takarakka Bush Resort, which
aims for the eco-friendly luxury camping experience. The on-site accommodation is
Safari Tent: raised wooden floor, steel framed, with mains power, but canvas walls.
Takarakka had a large outdoor camp kitchen/dining area, which we shared with other
campers (and the local birds). As the evening progressed, the wind howled, the rain
hurled, and it got seriously cold. I became worried about having the car parked under
trees, and got up during the night to move it out into the middle of the oval.
Page 16
FEBRUARY 2012
Next morning I found a good-size branch on the ground where I’d first parked the car
next to the tent. We drove up to the visitors’ centre in the National Park to find, not
surprisingly, that the walking tracks up the Gorge were closed because of the last night’s
rain, and the causeway in the access road was running at 0.9 m, and we were, as a
result, stranded. There were some shorter walks outside the gorge proper, which were
spectacular nonetheless.
We decided to go back to the
flooded causeway and assess the
situation for ourselves. I pushed
some sticks into the sand at the
water’s edge, and we watched
and waited over lunch. The
water level was about 18” and
dropping at an inch per hour,
which meant we weren’t going
to be crossing Carnarvon Creek
any time soon. Sanity prevailed,
and we returned to Takarakka
and a different Safari Tent.
It was here that I could just hear an occasional soft “squeak” coming from the engine,
and my fears were confirmed. This was the sound of the generator’s rear bush chewing
out from lack of lubrication. The main business for the next few days would be keeping
the generator alive long enough to get back home. Every time I stopped the car, from
now on, I put a drop of oil into the oiler.
Next morning, day 15, the sun came out, the waters abated, and we were able to leave
Carnarvon Gorge. The ranges just south of the gorge still have their native vegetation,
amongst which the famous boab trees.
Page 17
FEBRUARY 2012
The Central Queensland towns went
by as we drove south. Injune and
Surat, particularly, had classic rural
Queensland public buildings, for
example, the Surat Shire Hall.
In the low-lying areas between
Roma and St George (which is
everywhere), the trees still bore the
high-water marks from the 2010
floods. Everything’s bigger in
Queensland, including introduced
pests, like the prickly pear cactus. St
George to Mungindi is cotton country, and the cotton fields have been laser-levelled,
with big levee banks around them. And they are huge.
I wanted to get to Moree for the night, preferably before the sun went down, but that
didn’t happen. I delayed as long as possible, but finally I had to turn the headlights on.
And with the headlights came the unmistakable sound of the generator poling. The load
on the rear bush increases with current draw, you see . . . I tried driving with no
headlights for a while, but it gets difficult to see in the dark. I stopped to disconnect one
headlight, and with one headlight, made it to Moree. The motel proprietor at Moree
knew about old cars, and without asking offered us a flattened cardboard box to put
under the car and keep the oil off the forecourt. In the motel room I disassembled the
generator. It was not a pretty sight. The armature shaft was badly worn, and to hide the
fact, the guy who reconditioned it packed the bushing with grease. The grease dried out
in the Northern Territory heat and the bush got chewed out. No alternative now but
more grease, and with the fan
belt set at minimum tension,
we set off for Narrabri.
In the Woolworths car park a
couple of locals told us to pass
by Allan Cooper’s Holden
dealership and check out the
FJ in the showroom. The sales
manager saw us coming and
said, “So you want to trade up
to a newer model? How much
warranty’s left on yours?”
Page 18
FEBRUARY 2012
I can’t drive
anywhere in Australia
without passing by a
radio telescope. So I
presented myself at
the office of the
Australia Telescope
at Narrabri, waved
my staff pass, and
asked if Stirling and I
could get a tour over
one of the antennas.
Robin, the site
manager, was happy
to oblige us.
It would have been good to
drive up Mt Kaputar, but the
access road was closed
because of the recent storm.
At Boggabri, just to put my
mind a little more at ease, we
stopped at a park, I pulled the
generator apart (again), found
a Coke can, and wound a strip
of aluminium around the
armature shaft, which was just
enough to hold the bits which
turn apart from the bits which
don’t.
Quirindi seemed like a reasonable option for the last night’s accommodation, and we
found a classic old pub, which had been converted into a B&B.
On the way back home, the inner geologist got the better of Stirling, and we stopped at
Burning Mountain, and walked up the trail to see it. It’s quite a sight, although probably
not everyone’s cup of tea. It looks like a volcanic vent, but in fact it’s an underground
coal seam which caught fire about six thousand years ago, and will burn for some time
to come.
Page 19
FEBRUARY 2012
And from Quirindi, the engine sounded even more rattly than usual, so the last day’s
drive was more about nursing the car along than anything else. But even so, I decided
that when I returned home, I’d revive a literary genre that has fallen into disuse: the
testimonial letter to Holden.
Summary
17 days, 5004 miles, 164.3 gallons of fuel, 30.3 mpg average. No breakdowns.
The engine noise was a loose camshaft timing gear.
Below is a copy of the letter Robert sent to Holden after his Red Centre trip and
Holden’s reply to Robert 11 November 2010
Mr Mark Devereux
Chairman & Managing Director
GM Holden Limited
GPO Box 1714
MELBOURNE VIC 3001
Dear Sir,
This letter probably arrives about sixty years too late, but nonetheless In early October this year, I took my 1950 Holden sedan (NSW registration JX-408,
engine number 17954) on a trip through Central Australia, covering Broken Hill, the
Flinders Ranges, Marree, Coober Pedy, Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Mt
Isa, Longreach, Carnarvon Gorge, Roma, Narrabri, and return to Sydney, a trip of
5,000 miles in 17 days.
During this voyage, which included long stretches of rough and washed-out dirt
roads, and an extremely muddy and boggy section of the Oodnadatta Track, the
vehicle required no attention other than regular lubrication. Its reliability (sixty years
on!) pleasantly surprised me and is testimony to Holden’s designers and engineers.
Wherever I went, the car attracted attention. Anywhere I stopped, other motorists
would come and tell me their own Holden stories. In any town where I stayed
overnight, by the next morning I had usually met other owners of early model
Holdens. This is the reputation Holden enjoys in the consciousness of the general
public, particularly in the outback.
Yours sincerely,
Robert Shaw
Page 20
FEBRUARY 2012
Holden’s reply -
Page 21
FEBRUARY 2012
HOW OBSERVANT WERE YOU #5???
I hope you enjoyed and managed to solve last month’s observation
challenge –
CONGRATULATIONS TO ADAM MAGNOLI & ROBERT SHAW– who
were the first to provide me with the correct solution(s) – there were
in fact 2 errors in last month’s observation challenge!!
So, did you also find the errors?…
 The magnifying glass was located on Page 19. Did you find it?
The 2 errors on Page 19 were 1.
The word ‘Easter’ in my statement ‘Due to the Easter break,
there are no Club Run Reports for this month’s magazine’. Should
have been ‘Christmas’;
2.
In the article ‘Still Holden on: Gemini clocks 1,000,000 km’ the
year in the date of the article was incorrect and should have been
December 14, 2011 – not December 14, 201.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE
WHO SOLVED THE CHALLENGE!
Don’t forget to check next month’s
magazine for another challenge!
GEOFF SMITH’S ‘WHY IS IT SO? QUESTION’...
Why is it so… that the Windsor exhaust Centre is located at Richmond?
If you have a question you would like
entered in the ‘Why Is It So?’ section,
please contact me via email –
[email protected]
Page 22
FEBRUARY 2012
NRMA Motorfest, Sydney
Thursday 26th January 2012
(story provided by Jim Watts)
The day didn’t look very promising weather wise, but as we got closer to the city from
Goulburn, the weather seemed to lighten up a little.
Arriving at the assembly point in the Domain car park at 8:00 am (which is more
convenient than having to be there at 6:30 am as in previous years), there didn’t seem
to be as many cars as in earlier years. Things seemed almost calm compared with other
years.
Our call up time was 8:30 am to be directed to our allocated parking spot which was
almost the same spot as last year, in front of the Mint Building.
The ladies very quickly took advantage of the covered area opposite our cars just in
case it did rain. Tables and chairs were unpacked and cuppas were the order of the
day, after which we all left to peruse the other cars.
Page 23
FEBRUARY 2012
Looking at the
number of cars
displaying, it was
obvious that the
forecast of rain had
kept quite a number
at home. No, it
didn’t rain although
we did have a few
very light sprinkles
on and off during
the day.
Hyde Park was busy as usual with entertainment and a huge variety of culinary
delights. Although again the pedestrian traffic didn’t seem as congested as in previous
years.
At about 9:30 am, John Flower of the NRMA came up to speak to Pam and myself and
said that he wanted one of us to do a live-to-air interview with ABC 702. Of course, I
very quickly volunteered Pam to undertake this arduous task. After the interview a
photograph of Pam standing beside ‘Blondie’ was taken and posted to their twitter
page. We then resumed our position under the covering to have something to eat and
a welcome cuppa.
About an hour later, John Flower arrived back to ask Pam to go over to ‘Blondie’ as he
had a film crew from Sky News wanting to do an interview with Pam immediately.
Pam duly obliged and when she got to the car there were a million spectators all
looking to see what was happening which required a film crew. I think by this time Pam
was feeling like an old hand at this interviewing business. At the end of the interview
the gentleman conducting the interview asked his last question, which was – “Pam,
now tell us what is the difference between an FJ, a 48-215 and an FX?” She very quickly
latched onto the FX and stated that “there has never been a model of car called the FX,
that it was a prefix given to the 48-215 in the early fifties”. The response from the
interviewer was “Well Pam, you do know something about the cars” to which she very
promptly replied “Yes I do and I am educating the world”. With a little chuckle the
interviewer then ended the interview – much to her relief.
Pam now feels that she has had her Andy Wahl’s 15 minutes of fame!
We all had to be back at our cars at 4:30 pm to wait for the instruction to leave at
about 5:00 pm which ended Motorfest for another year.
Page 24
FEBRUARY 2012
Oberon Weekend, Oberon
Friday 10th to Sunday 12th February 2012
(story provided by David Stephens – photos by Howard Smith)
We met Geoff Smith at Lapstone Information Centre then started up the highway, in
the rain. At Lapstone, Jeff Magnoli was going to work in his truck, there was lots of
horn sounding and waving as we passed. Geoff Smith later said he didn't know it was
Jeff, he was just waving too!
We arrived at Oberon about 9.45 am and stopped for morning tea at a coffee shop in
town. Kim McMurray just happened to come in for her morning coffee break from the
Craft shop when we were there.
We then went to the ground to meet Jim & Pam Watts. By this time the rain had
stopped and the sun was out. Then off on the run down to Jenolan Caves. We had
lunch and a tour of a cave for $20 per head, very good value. Lunch was served in the
Dining room in Caves house - a nice roast and lots of yummy sweets. At 4 pm the road
out was closed to incoming traffic so we went on the return run to Oberon.
Saturday was the big parade through Oberon and display day. Ray & Lyn Rowe and
Garry
O’Reilly
came up for
the day. We
also caught
up with
Hector
Rodgers.
Many locals
came out to
watch the
parade
through
town.
On the
return trip
to the grounds (and as we were behind a very slow steam engine), I suggested that Pat
& Helen could get out so they could stay downtown. Unfortunately as Pat went to get
out she couldn't get out as her seat belt was still on, the result was the parade was
held up for a few moments.
Page 25
FEBRUARY 2012
In the afternoon we had a very heavy storm which lasted about 1/2 hour but we all
managed to stay dry
thanks to the Rowe’s
tent. We left the ground
about 4 pm. Lyn &Ray
went home and the rest
of us went with Kim &
David McMurray to the
hotel for dinner. We
had a very enjoyable
evening together. Garry
O’Reilly then left for
home.
On Sunday Jim& Pam
drove home and we
met Geoff at the ground where he had been on a trip around the block on a steam
engine.
We had a trouble free run home. I think all who went had a most enjoyable weekend.
If at any time you have doubts as to whether a run/event is on, ring me –
we are normally up and about by 6:30 am. My phone number can be
found on the inside cover of the Distributor – Ian.
Page 26
FEBRUARY 2012
As all events on the Motoring ‘round page permit Conditional Plate vehicular movement, the
Motoring ‘round section is now written by the Committee.
Anyone wishing to add an outing to these pages must do so by submitting the event to the
Committee (in writing) allowing enough time for consideration/approval, prior to the
Committee submitting the event to the Editor for publication on this page.
25th March 2012
Lake Alexandria, Mittagong
On this run we will be meeting up with the Illawarra Early Holden Club at
Mittagong. I have challenged them to a backyard cricket match. There are
BBQ’s on site if you wish to cook a bbq.
We will meet at the Servo on the M5 extension at Pheasants Nest and
depart from there at 9:00 am.
22nd April 2012
GM Display Day – Panther’s Club, Mulgoa Road, Penrith
Gates open at 8:00 am and the entry fee is $10.
Page 27
FEBRUARY 2012
MEETINGS
March 2012
9th (Friday) - 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club Committee Meeting to be held at Wayne
and Debbie Smith’s – 8 pm start.
19th (Monday) – 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club NSW Inc. General Meeting to be held
at Greystanes – 8 pm start. Visitors welcome.
April 2012
1st (Sunday) - 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club Committee Meeting to be held at Jim and
Pam Watt’s. Lunch 12:00 pm. Meeting commencing at 2:30 pm.
16th (Monday) – 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club NSW Inc. General Meeting to be held
May 2012
Date and time to be confirmed - 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club Committee Meeting to
be held at to be advised.
21st (Monday) – 48 & FJ Holden Owners Club NSW Inc. General Meeting to be held
Vehicles on Conditional Plates are only permitted to attend Runs and Meetings
listed on the Motoring ‘Round pages and only on the dates listed on these pages.
For service requirements refer to your Club Conditional Registration Scheme
(HCRS) Rules and Regulations.
All other movements by vehicles on Conditional Plates will require prior
notification through the Club Conditional Plates Registrar.
Page 28
FEBRUARY 2012
CLUB MERCHANDISE FOR SALE
Green/yellow polo shirts
3 x medium
1 x large
$35.00 ea
Baseball caps with club logo
$20.00 ea.
50th Anniversary FJ T-Shirts
3 x medium
1 x large
$10.00 ea.
60th Anniversary 48-215 T-Shirts
All sizes
$15.00 ea. $10.00 ea.
Club logo patch for jacket etc.
$6.00 ea.
Obsolete yellow club shirt (Ladies Size 12)
$5.00 ea.
Club logo self sticking window badge
$3.00 ea.
Windscreen banner
$25.00 ea.
Grille Badge
$25.00 ea.
Australian flags x 2
$5.00 ea.
Set of 5 scrap books
$20.00 set
Air cleaner decal
$2.00 ea.
IF YOU WISH TO MAKE A PURCHASE PLEASE SEE PAM

THE DISTRIBUTOR - FJ Holden Owners Club of NSW

Transcription

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