(Feature Articles) Members Story

At the XJ-S Border Roundup in Swan Hill, Don provided a story about his trip in 1975 to the Jaguar factory in Browns Lane Coventry. The following is a summary of his talk:

Whilst Don has owned many Jaguars in his lifetime, his involvement with Jaguars goes beyond just being an enthusiast. In the 1970s Don worked for Bryson Industries in their Adelaide division as a young salesman selling new Jaguars, Rovers and Triumphs. In 1975, to motivate and enthuse sales staff to increase Jaguar sales, a competition was introduced with first prize being a trip to the factory at Browns Lane in Coventry In February 1975 Don had a very successful month of Jaguar sales and this result won him the competition and the trip to the factory. Don was allowed to take his wife Elaine with him. This turned out to be a good move because Elaine kept a journal of the trip. The journal notes show the tour of the factory took place Thursday 10th July 1975 and included visits to two Jaguar factories. The tour was broken up with a very enjoyable VIP lunch in Sir William Lyons' dining room. The key point of Don's story is that after completing the factory tours, Don and Elaine were given a very special treat. They were shown the new Jaguar XJS prototype, the replacement to the E Type and what's more were offered a test run. The offer was excitedly and gratefully accepted. With Elaine squeezed in the back seat and along with the tour guide they drove off through the neighbouring country side. A very impressive experience, sleek, powerful, smooth and fast. Don and Elaine felt very privileged especially when they were told they were the first persons in the world outside Jaguar personnel to experience this new sports car. Since the event in Swan Hill was a celebration of the XJS it seemed appropriate that Don should tell this story. Of course, had they known at the time that 47 years later they would be the proud owners of a beautiful example (1992 XJS 4 litre 6-cylinder coupe) and be there celebrating the XJ-S model, they probably would have appreciated the significance of the ‘special-treat’ even more.

During the Swan Hill weekend the “Most Desirable XJS Coupe” was judged and Don and Elaine Cardone’s car was judged the winner. Seen here receiving the trophy. (Story pages 48-49).

Don & Elaine Cardone