Via west august 2013

August 2013

Via West

Page 1

Coming Events...

 11th August - SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING

 17-18th August DWELLINGUP CAMPING TRIP

 29th August - 1st September WILDFLOWER TOUR 2013

 7-8th September WAROONA VINTAGE MACHINERY RALLY 1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 2

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 3

August 2013

Via West

PRESIDENT

VICE-PRESIDENT

Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

Graham Tibbs 0412 002 738

executive@vwclubwa.com

Page 4

SECRETARY

TREASURER

Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Justin Bayley 0438 819 443

administration@vwclubwa.com

finance@vwclubwa.com

(MEMBERSHIPS)

EDITOR

CONCESSION LICENCE

EVENT COORDINATOR

PROPERTY

Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Rod McSwain (08) 9332 6919

Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

Richard Hines (08) 9342 8703

viawest@vwclubwa.com

executive@vwclubwa.com

COUNCIL OF MOTORING CLUBS

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

MERCHANDISE

SOUTH WEST

Richard Hines (08) 9342 8703

Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

Rod McSwain (08) 9332 6919

Kim Muste 0408 914 400

webmaster@vwclubwa.com

GENERAL COMMITTEE...

Patrick Spiteri

Dave Moore

Karen Fyfe

Peter Summerfield 1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

VIAWEST MAGAZINE

CONTACT US

Member Advertising: Please send your ‘for sale’ or ‘wanted’ adverts by mail or email to the Editor before the publication deadline.

Fees: Members - 1/4 page adverts are free.

Non-Members - 1/4 page adverts are $5.00 Commercial Advertising: Please contact the Editor to find out about placing adverts in the magazine, inserting flyers etc. for one of more issues.

Publication Deadline: The deadline August 23 for articles for the next issue is.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Volkswagen Club of WA (Inc), its Committee or members.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at John Hughes Volkswagen in Victoria Park, starting at 6:30pm. Committee meetings are open to all members and invited guests.

Volkswagen Club of WA (Inc) Mail:

Western Australia 6979 ABN:

31 610 140 537

Telephone:

(08) 9342 8703

E-mail:

info@vwclubwa.com

Website:

www.vwclubwa.com

Welcome to our new members...

Sean Jones John Agostino

Happy Birthday for August...              

 Andrew Scogings  Annalea Peart  Atreyu Colella  Ben Verbunt  Brian Grainger  Charlie Evans  Chloe Lewin  Colin Seth  Daniel Keillor  Debra Michael  Ebony Tippett  Franzine Karamfiles  Gregory Suosaari  Alex Shepherd

Ian McCulloch Justin McPherson Kaitlyn McSwain Kevin Ferguson Lesley McPherson Lia Verbunt Luka Brix Lynn Taylor Mark Shepherd Megan Stoney Miranda Lawrence

      

PO Box 175 Victoria Park

NEW MEMBERSHIPS AND BIRTHDAYS

The club now has 178 active memberships

Page 5

Robin Bailey Rosemarie Baroni Sara Isherwood Steve Robinson Stevie Power Suzanne McKenzie Tom Glasfurd

IN THIS ISSUE

page

The Committee ......................... 4 Club Page ................................. 5 Club Event Calendar ............... 6 President’s Spot ....................... 7 Member-ships Profile ................ 9 Formula Vees ...........................11 Cruise to the Vees ....................12 Wildflower Tour 2013 ................16 Busso Drive-In w/e ...................17 3 weeks in the Netherlands ......19 Club Run September ................22 Road Test - Skoda Yeti ............23 Club Run August ......................28 Annual General Meeting ...........29 Volkswagen News  30 million Golfs ..................31 Volkswagen Motorsport  Newsletters ........................33 VW Club Merchandise ..............37 2003 ViaWest extracts  Cargofun ............................38  Buggycue ...........................40 CMC Event Calendar ................41 Membership Form ....................43 44 Page Bumper Issue

Patrick Blagg Revely Gardiner Richard Hines

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 6

This month...

August 2013 # indicates a club run

Wednesday 7th

ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD 7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

Sunday 11th

SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING BUSSELTON See page 18 for information

Contact: Kim 0408 914 400

Wednesday 14th

MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Saturday 17th to Sunday 18th #

DWELLINGUP VW CLUB CAMPING TRIP See page 28 for information...also see the VW Club Forum

Contact: Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

Wednesday 28th

EVENTS COORDINATION MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Contact: Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

Thursday 29th to WILDFLOWER TOUR 2013 Sunday 1st Sept. A 4 day tour of the Mid West region of WA. SPECIAL EVENT See page 16 for information

Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340 Register your interest by SMS to above or email viawest@vwclubwa.com

September 2013 Wednesday 4th

ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD 7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

Saturday 7th to Sunday 8th #

WAROONA VINTAGE MACHINERY RALLY (CAMPING) See page 22 for information

Contact: Dave Moore 0402 607 552

Sunday 8th

SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING BUSSELTON See page 18 for information

Contact: Kim 0408 914 400 Contact: Mark 0449 947 782

Wednesday 11th

MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Wednesday 25th

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING See page 29 for information

Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

October 2013 Wednesday 2nd

ALFRED’S of GUILDFORD 7pm cnr of Meadow & James St Guildford

Wednesday 9th

MONTHLY COMMITTEE MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Contact: Ray Willis 0407 347 340

Sunday 13th

SOUTH WEST MONTHLY GATHERING BUSSELTON See page 18 for information

Contact: Kim 0408 914 400 Contact: Mark 0449 947 782

TBA #

OCTOBER CLUB RUN

Contact:

Wednesday 23rd

EVENTS COORDINATION MEETING 6:30pm @ John Hughes Volkswagen, Victoria Park

Contact: Jamie Barrett 0408 183 396

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia The Council of Motoring Clubs ‘2013 CALENDAR OF EVENTS’ has been included inside the back cover.

August 2013

Via West

Page 7

Hi...

If you are reading this in black and white you are probably looking at a printed version posted to you. If so, you are missing out on a world of colour! This magazine looks great in colour and back lit by your computer! At this stage I have to apologize to those not in a position to own a PC/ Laptop or be on the internet, we continue to provide you with your hardcopy as part of your membership.

I am writing this as a plea to those that opted to pay the $10 last year to receive a posted copy. As you can imagine it costs the club far more than the $10 to print and post your copy every month. Please consider not ticking that box when your renewal comes out. If you love a hard copy perhaps print it at home (or work). You will notice that Ray has provided you with a method to print the online magazine when this one was sent out by email.

With that out of the way I want to announce that our merchandise range has grown to include stock of 3 colours of T Shirts (Red, White and Blue) and we also have some classy black zipper Hoodies – look out for the picture of the dodgy crowd sporting their new attire in this edition.

Our club year is at an end and what a year it has been! Event wise, the recent success of the Formula Vee’s trip, last November’s Busselton Drive-In Weekend and the Day of the Volkswagen being my personal favourites. A big thanks goes out to all involved in organizing and of course those attending and supporting the events, it helps make these really enjoyable.

The committee has seen some new comers and contributors joining in the fun – and helping to spread the load. We all have to thank these guys for their contribution! The AGM is soon approaching, put it in your calendar to come along and show your support to a great club.

Enjoy the very colourful picture I have included...seriously please consider not ticking the “hardcopy” box when your membership renewal forms come through in the coming weeks. Think of the environment.

Jamie Barrett Club President Reminder...membership renewals will be posted to you in July/August for the 2013/14 year, hopefully your postal and email addresses are up to date with the club...if not please let us know of any changes ASAP.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 8

August 2013

Via West

Member Profiles

-ships

WANTED This edition does not have any Member Profiles to show you, so we need more of you to send yours in.

Page 9

So in the absence of Member Profiles this month I thought I would see what the Membership Officer had in the way of…

Some of the longest memberships started back in the 1970’s while the newest member joined this week.

A brief Profile of the Memberships of the Club.

24 or 13.5% are country memberships that spread from Newman in the north to Albany in the south.

The record number of 178 active memberships represents a total of 418 people - members; partners and families.

Member’s, get to know each other a little by contributing their profile, cars and faces.

It also represents a total of 303 cars (99.9% VWs), that are recorded in the membership register.

Just use the bold subject matters (see past magazines) and send in one, two or lots of photos. You can even add freehand comments as well.

Wouldn’t that be a sight at the Day of the Volkswagen! 8 of those cars are on ‘concession’ licences, saving their owners huge licence fees.

160 memberships receive their Via West magazine online, while 58 get a hardcopy each month… some memberships choose to get both.

There are currently 9 LIFE members...these have been awarded by the club in appreciation of their services over a number of years...8 of which are active.

In brief...that’s it!

VW Club of WA - Annual Charity for 2013/14 DuchenneFoundation DuchenneFoundation Australia Your Volkswagen Club of WA has embarked on supporting charities or appeals either directly from the club funds or by assisting the charity or appeal in their goal to publicise their fundraising.

Visit their website for more information.

How you can help:  Organise a DuchenneFoundation fundraiser

In the past, the Club has support-  Make a donation ed the Kids Cancer Support  Buy DuchenneFoundation merGroup, from ward 3b at Princess chandise Margaret Hospital and also the Toodyay Bushfire Appeal.  Support DuchenneFoundation events In 2012/13 it was Telethon and in the coming year it will be the  Contribute to the VW Club’s DuchenneFoundation Australia. fundraising efforts

So if you see a club member rattling a tin or two in the next twelve months at any of our events please drop in your loose change...it all goes to a very good cause.

In addition the Club will again be charging a gold coin donation for judging at the 2013 Shannons Day of the Volkswagen and all money raised this year will go to the DuchenneFoundation Australia.

The Committee

Duchenne Foundation's MISSION Using National and international collaboration to improve the quality and quantity of life for those living with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy and their families, through research, education and advocacy.

Website: www.duchennefoundation.org.au

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 10

August 2013

Via West

Page 11

Formula Vee ... the stepping stone for 14 year olds, girls and boys, and some old blokes just having fun.

And it doesn’t cost much!

the year really well, also some ‘over 21s’ who just want to enjoy some close competitive racing.

People of all ages are racing with us including two ladies, and some of the new guys are up at the front of the field already.

Tyres may last a whole season or only part of a season with significant practice. Track days are free for competitors on the Friday preceding an event and some are This year CAMS have revised the half price ($35) on the Saturday age limits for the introductory before. $2100 will get you a open wheeler class of car racing, brand new, good quality Race Formula Vee Racing provides the Formula Vee. Normally you need Suit, Boots, Gloves, Underwear to be 16 to get a licence but now thrill of fiercely competitive open and Helmet. An extra $800 will wheeler single seat motor racing you can race Formula Vee from buy a HANS (Head and Neck Supat a budget cost using a age 14. port) device which is not compulVolkswagen Beetle for donor sory and only used by a few drivYou've been watching Craig parts. Permitted modifications are ers. Racing 1600s costs considerLowndes, Mark Webber, Sebasminimal – the emphasis is on ably more to purchase and to run tian Vettel on TV and reading driver skill rather than budget. As than 1200s - the Vee grid is curabout Formula 1, V8s, Karts, a result, the class is the first rently split evenly between both apexes, understeer, oversteer, proving ground in motor racing classes and you will always be brake balance etc. "Yes I can do and has always been a stepping racing hard against someone better than all of them! ‘They stone to higher levels of motorwhether you are near the front, couldn't pass a car if the driver sport. Costs are roughly: the middle or the back. You will moved over and waved him have every chance of being a through’ I hear you say. But may- Startup and First Year front runner in the 1200s during be you've been driving karts since License & Memberships $780 your first season but this will be you were 6 years old and now Race Car with Trailer $12,000 harder in the 1600s.

Car Port $220 you're 13 it's time to think of Safety Gear $2,100 making the big move into real When do I start?

Fuel $500 racing cars like Formula Vee. 14 $1,000 You can sign up and start racing year olds can race and win, espe- Maintenance Track Days $240 at any time during the season, or cially if they have Kart experiRace Entries $1,400 sign up in the off season and get ence.

Total $18,240 some practice in before it starts.

The time has come for everyone Racing generally starts in FebruAnnually over 14 to take the plunge, to fulary each year and continues fil your dreams - to become a rac- License and Memberships $620 through to November. Practice or Car Port $220 ing car driver.

Tuning Days happen all year Fuel $500 round and are advertised on the Three local lads, all under 15, Tyres $1,200 WA Sporting Car Club web site have taken advantage of this new Race Entries $1,400 (www.wascc.com.au). Each year ruling and transferred for karts to Maintenance $800 you can compete in up to 9 race Formula Vee. Jordan Cvetanoski, Track Days $240 rounds, mostly at Barbagallo but Jaydan Tonaro and Aiden Reid Total $4,980 also at Collie. In 2013, there are have both bought Vees; Jordan a Really—is it that cheap? two championships to win at both 1600 and Aiden and Jaydan have 1200s. They have started racing These figures have been averaged 1200 and 1600 cc. The state championship of 8 race meetings this year and will develop their by 2 new members becoming racing skills by competing in the race car drivers in 2011 (1200s). at Barbagallo and the FVAWA Club championship which is taken 2013 Formula Vee championship One paid more, one paid less. It from every second round includheld a Barbagallo Raceway. is possible to start for even less; ing Collie. however, it may take longer to Significantly, we have seen a get to the front. Some cars See opposite for contact infornumber of young adults joining (drivers) win straight away, some mation. Better still, come and over the past few months, includtake time. talk to us at a race meeting. ing April Welsh who has started

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 12

CRUISE TO THE Vees...

Some comments from the day…

WOW! what a great day. a big top job to Ross for organising it all and to all those who helped out.

Had a great day out, thanks for arranging Ross.

Had a great day too!

Big shout out to Rosco for organizing us access to such a great event, we had a brilliant time, very enjoyable for the whole family. Cheers mate Great day all round. Thanks again to Ross for the invitation and organization. Cheers

Ross Campbell (Rossco) ...our organiser for the day

Thanks Rosco for a top day, the cruise there was perfect and well planned. Great day with racing and really enjoyed the Vee's.

A huge thanks to Rosco for putting together a great event... it was very cool to see so many Volksies cruising in formation to the track.

Just to add my thanks for a great day. Everything was well organised from the cruise to getting in and parking up. And last but not least a great bunch of people to hang out with.

Such a great day on so many different levels…

Thanks to those who came and specially Rosco for organising this event...Hope it will become an annual event...

And the winner is...

Congrats to Darryl and Donna for winning the drive in the current State Champion 1600 Formula Vee at an upcoming family day. Full tilt, in anger, at 180kph. Thanks to Ross, this is the prize for winning the “public vote” for best VW on show on the day.

Graham won the prize (a hoodie) for winning the “I cant believe you drive that” category for the PATINA...

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 13

...Sunday 7th july

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 14

...the formula vees

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 15

...the vee-dubbers!

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

VW Club of WA’s Via West

Page 16

Wildflower Tour 2013 29th August to 1st September A 4 day tour of the Mid West region of WA. Proposed itinerary…

Day 0 Home to Gingin

(28th August)

Optional stay overnight ready to depart on tour from Gingin the next morning.

Day 1 Home to Gingin to Dalwallinu

(29th August)

Start with a morning departure from Gingin...via Moora, Wildflowers Interpretative Education Centre (Western Wildflower Farm) at Watheroo & Dalwallinu Discovery Centre

Day 2 Dalwallinu to Mingenew

(30th August)

...includes Wubin’s Heritage Wheatbin and Machinery Museums, the Perenjori Tourist Centre and Pioneer Museum, and Coalseam Conservation Park

Day 3 Mingenew to Jurien Bay

(31st August)

...includes Dongara, travel the Indian Ocean Drive and Mt Leuseur National Park

Day 4 Jurien Bay to Home

(1st September)

o tth t d Day 5 Jurien Bay to Home e 9 e y n b u r Yo ste t... i us g re aug

...includes Nambung National Park (Pinnacles), Cervantes and Lancelin [tour ends with everybody making their own way home] h

(2nd September)

Optional stay overnight in Jurien Bay (or similar) on night 4 and travel home on day 5.   

Accommodation will be at Caravan Parks (tour base), but it is OK if you want to stay at other accommodation in each town.

Easy travelling with an average of around 250-300 kms per day.

Some planned meals and of course drinks at the end of the day.

To register your interest (or if you have a question of two), please SMS me on 0407347340 or email me at viawest@vwclubwa.com with your contact details.

More information will become available after you have registered and also as numbers become known.

Organiser: Ray Willis Disclaimer...this trip is timetabled for the height of a regular Wildflower Season...we have no control over the weather, the road conditions or the wildflowers...you come along at your own risk of having a good time.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Vee Dubs @ Busselton Drive-In Movies 2013 1st, 2nd & 3th November Following on the success of the first Vee Dubs @ the Busselton Drive-in Movies in November last year the South West crew, with the backing of the VW Club of WA have put together the same event for 2013 with a few tweaks. This year we encourage people to cruise down on the Friday. On Saturday there will again be a great cruise and Drive -in night. To round out the weekend there will be a Sunday morning Show n Shine at the Busselton beachfront that we should share with the Busselton Markets.

Following is all that you need to know.

RESERVED ACCOMMODATION We have pre-booked a group of powered camp sites and 4 cabins for the Friday and Saturday nights at the Kookaburra Caravan Park located close to the beach and a short 10 minute walk from the town centre.

How to Book: Call Kookaburra Caravan Park (phone: 9752

1516) and say the code word “VW Club” to book and arrange payment for your own “pre booked” accommodation or for an extended stay.

When to Book: It is recommended that accommodation is booked well in advance by mid September to avoid disappointment.

Where: Kookaburra Caravan Park, 66 Marine Tce, Busselton.

FRIDAY 1ST NOVEMBER Why not take an extra day off to cruise down on the Friday and enjoy at least two nights of camping. The idea is for people to organise their own cruise down so keep and eye on the forums for people working up their own cruises to Busselton.

The South West crew will also separately organise a cruise from Bunbury to Busselton departing from the Koombana Drive beach car park near the Dolphin Discovery Centre. The aim is to tie in with a cruise down from Perth so again keep an eye out on the forums for details.

SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 12:30pm Pre Drive-in Cruise We have organised a cruise from the Kookaburra Caravan Park including Meelup Beach and Canal Rocks to be back in time for the Busselton Drive-in gate opening.

The cruise will depart from the verge parking area opposite the

Page 17

Kookaburra Caravan Park at 12:30pm.

Busselton Drive-In - The Main Event The Drive-in will open at 4:30pm for only Vee Dubs to enter so we can get the best spots to show off our rides, have a good chat and have something to eat before the public arrives at 7pm and the movie starts at 7:30pm.

Where: Busselton Drive-In, 500 Bussell Highway, Busselton.

What Time: The side gate off Bell Drive will be open for our Vee Dubs entry from 4:30pm to 6pm with public entry at 7pm.

Arrive later than 6pm and you will need to queue for public entry and pay as normal.

How Much: The discount Vee Dubs rates are Adults $10 and Children $5 (4 – 14yo inclusive) - CASH ONLY. How to Pay: Money is to be paid to a VW Club representative at the side gate. A VW Club receipt will be issued and must be retained.

Gate Prize: Your VW club gate receipt will put you in the draw to win a classic VW themed gate prize. The draw will be made at 6.30pm.

Food: The choice is yours to bring your own food to eat early or buy from the classic drive-in Snack Bar that opens at 7pm.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

(Continued on page 18)

August 2013

Via West

When:

(Continued from page 17)

The Movies: Two movies will be screened. Closer to the event details of the movies will be available on the drive-in website.

Speakers: Don’t worry if your Vee Dub doesn’t have a radio as the Drive-in still has spaces with classic clip on window speakers.

SUNDAY 3RD NOVEMBER

10am to 1pm.

Page 18

Spriggs by email, phone or text.

Gate Entry: Gate entry onto GOTO DETAILS Signal Park is strictly from via the Busselton Drive Inn: Marine Terrace car park. www.busseltondrive-in.com.au Static Display: For the safety of Kookaburra Caravan Park: Vee Dubs, their owners and the public, cars on the reserve are to www.busselton.wa.gov.au/ remain parked for the duration of facilities/kookaburra or call 9752 1516 the gathering.

CRUISE HOME

Busselton Beachfront Show n Shine

If you are not from Busselton or staying longer, Sunday afternoon To round off the weekend we is available for your cruise home. have organised an informal Show Those heading in similar direc‘n’ Shine at the Busselton beach- tions may want to get their own front to show off your rides to the group cruise happening. public. It’s a great spot to check TO SHOW YOUR INTEREST out VW’s, grab a late breakfast, If you are interested in any or all snack, ice cream or coffee. of the weekend events post up Where: Signal Park, Busselton your interest/confirmation on the beachfront at the end of Queen VW Club WA or NoH2O forums, Street next to the Equinox Cafe. or contact Kim Muste or Mark

Volkswagen Club of Western Australia: www.vwclubwa.com Noh2o Collective: www.noh2o.org Kim Muste: Email kim@tme.net.au or call/ text 0408 914 400 Mark Spriggs: Email newwavemaintenance@hotmail.com or call/text 0449 947 782

When:

Next Gathering is on Sunday - 11th August

Location:

Meet adjacent to the Busselton Beach…end of Queen St at the Signal Park car park at 11:00am...then a cruise to a popular location!

Contacts:

Kim 0408 914 400 Mark 0449 947 782

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 19

for articles, so if you find Three weeks people this one boring blame him!

Some background...the reason for in the the holiday was for Kerry and I to my 80yo mother back to the Netherlands take Netherlands to visit family, stay er misses an opportunity to ask

By Kim Muste with and an old school friend from over 60 years ago and to visit I emailed Ray Willis, the editor of where she grew up.

Via West to let him know that I was back from a three week holi- Whilst I’d love to write about the wonderful old city centres with day in the Netherlands where I their narrow cobbled streets, cenhad done my usual holiday turies old buildings, canals and Volkswagen spotting. Ray being the magazine stalwart he is, nev- fantastic markets plus the absolutely delicious Dutch hot potato chips with mayonnaise (try it you’ll love it) and the cheese, oh the cheese...apologies...this article is mainly about Volkswagen spotting.

First off, we arrived at Schiphol airport to be picked up by my cousin. As my mother is not too good on her legs he parked his car in the airport VIP carpark (at a crazy cost) attached to the airport terminal. We only had to walk a few metres from the terminal doors to his car, a 3 year old white Sirocco (“at last!” I hear you say). As we had packed very light, taking only hand luggage we managed to all fit in fine… although my mother found entry and exit into the low bolstered front passenger seat somewhat challenging to say the least.

Meanwhile, I felt like a big kid sitting in the backseat with my knees around my ears staring out of the tiny side windows that are surprisingly well placed to get a view of the outside world.

Our first full day included walking to an antique and book market in The Hague.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

(Continued on page 20)

August 2013

Via West

Page 20

to find out there seems to be only one well known licensed brown Volksrod in the Netherlands that happens to be based in The Hague, so it’s a fair bet that it’s the one spotted.

(Continued from page 19)

A “borrowed” photo is included and if it’s not the one it’s remarkWhilst Kerry and my mother were ably like it. If you look this up concentrating on the silverware I you will find out that in the Nethcasually looked around for anyerlands you can’t change the thing Volkswagen, not expecting chassis length so to get the tradito find anything. As it happens I tional Volksrod look with the front spotted and bought an old English beam moved forward the builder Dinky toy oval with great patina. shortened the body...clever but It was interesting to also spot a clearly a lot of work to get the range of Dutch Volkswagen books look! for sale.

I spotted my first red T3 with As far as spotting old government signage in a superVolkswagens goes, all I can say is market car park. Initially I that you can catch a glimpse of thought it must have been some some 70’s beetles, late bays and ex Dutch government bus but the what seems like a lot of T3s drivwording looked German. Over ing along the busy roads and the three weeks I saw more of highways but they can be difficult these red T3 including one that to catch on camera. Somewhat had been wheel clamped so clearfrustratingly it was usually the ly they were privately owned. older or more interesting Again a search of the net revealed Volkswagens that I missed photothese red T3s are ex German fire graphing even with the camera or department vehicles. phone at the ready. Some that It’s really when you start walking got away were an early rat beetle, a splitty or lowlight on a free- through residential areas near that you spot older parked cars. way and a fantastic looking brownish Volksrod in The Hague. As we walked a lot I could spot up to 3 or 4 a day.

Searching the net for “Dutch Volksrod”, it was very interested

(Continued on page 21)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 21

(Continued from page 20)

We also stayed in Maastricht in the southern part of the Netherlands where we made a day trip to Aachen in Germany.

In Aachen we came across a fantastic black curved screen super beetle Karman convertible. This car was a knockout and absolutely stock but the one photo I took came out blurry...not helped by being in the rain without my glasses. The big surprise in Aachen was to find an amazing model shop that has a stunning range of Volkswagens of various scales and makes including the German fire department buses of various models. If you are intersected their website address is www.huenerbein.de. Kerry spotted a lowlight similar to ours in the shop that is now on the shelf at home.

Another little Volkswagen story was that we were sitting in our Hague apartment on the first floor above a restaurant when I faintly heard a deep dak dak sound. I jumped up to see a great looking dark green 68/69ish beetle that turned out of a tiny lane into the street we were on. I just managed to get a picture. Later that day I again heard the beetle and saw it disappear into a garage down the lane.

Like in Australia, Splitties and Bays are in advertising everywhere helping to promote just about everything from events to clothes. It also seemed that most if not all police vehicles in the Netherlands are Volkswagens including golf based variants and an assortment of vans.

We didn’t attend any Volkswagen events, meets or car museums but it was great to still see a good number old Volkswagens still on the road, including what looked to be mostly daily drivers.

It also makes me wonder if it is I’ll leave that one up to you to easier or harder owning and drivponder. ing an old classic car in Europe vs Australia.

Happy spotting...

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

September Club Run - Waroona

http://www.waroonavintagemachineryrally.com.au/

7th & 8th September 2013 This is planned to be a Cruise and Camping weekend based on the Vintage Machinery Rally in Waroona.

Waroona is 121 kms from Perth, 84 kms from Armadale, 43 kms from Mandurah, or 65 kms from Bunbury...not far at all.

Saturday 7th September Cruise to Waroona with a number of meeting points if required.

Saturday night will be FREE unpowered camping at the Waroona Showgrounds (toilets and showers are available).

Sunday 8th September If the cruise and camping do not suit your arrangements, you can still drive to Waroona to make the show’s opening time of 9:00am.

The morning could be to enjoy the show and in the afternoon it’s a ‘Steam Day’ at the YARLOOP WORKSHOPS AND STEAM MUSEUM just down the road.

Please provide any feedback… questions or suggestions...that you may have. More details to follow...

Event Coordinator: Dave Moore Mobile: 0402 607 552 Details also on the club forum.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 22

August 2013

Via West

Bohemian Snowman...

2011 Škoda Yeti 1.2TSI FWD DSG

Page 23

Mladá Boleslav was to make arguably some of the best cars produced behind the iron curtain.

They were good enough to export to "the West" (even to Australia) to earn hard currency, but quality was compromised by the need to conform to the planned economy.

In 1990, VW spotted the opportunity to adopt the privatised Škoda Automobile company, giving VW access to another autoDriven 2013-05-30 to 2013-06 motive heritage dating back a century, to the 1890's via Laurin -30 by Bernd Felsche & Klement; a favourable investBernd Felsche spent some time at ment climate, a technically skilled the helm of a Bohemian VW and ambitious workforce and a cousin; a Škoda Yeti powered by fresh market, by Škoda, in models developed the 1.2 litre TSI engine driving hun- from times under communism, only the front wheels via a but also fresh ones developed in DSG automatic transmisthe basis of VW platforms. sion.

Family Matters VW Genes Škoda vehicles importThe collapse of the rusty ed into Australia are iron curtain in 1989 carefully chosen to brought the industrial decomplement the cay behind the curtain into offerings of other sharp contrast to the indusgroup brands imtries against which the liberatported to Australia. ed would have to compete.

It's a different story Czechoslovakia was one of the in e.g. Europe where many countries that had a lot of Škoda faces off against gry for catching up to do. Unlike the for- modern cars.

VW and Audi, putting up a mer East Germany, it didn't have good fight and not infrequently, a rich cousin to pay to persuading buyers to opt for the "immediately" replace all the old Czech marque. In Australia the machinery, roads, rail, etc. The also Yeti provides many of the By the end of the 1990's, a decPilsen-based Škoda engineering same features as the VW Tiguan conglomerate, which had acquired ade that included the amicable in a package of the same size but dissolution of Czechoslovakia into engine, drivetrain and trim opcar maker Laurin & Klement in the Czech and Slovak Republics, 1925, was split shortly after tions differentiate the two. As VW had not only increased its World War 2, leaving the car does price. manufacturing branch as a sepa- shareholding of Škoda Auto, it'd infused vast amounts of technical Škoda Auto honour the Laurin & rate entity. Škoda Auto based in (Continued on page 24) DNA into new models produced

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

department has managed to avoid ugliness by a long distance.

A lot of people like the look. One becomes accustomed to what look like tiny wheels (they're 16inch wheels!) in the huge wheel arches that seem to leave enough (Continued from page 23) space to accommodate chickens.

Klement heritage by assigning it The swooping B-pillar effect on to the luxury trim level of most of the front doors gives the Yeti an their models in Europe. Which instantly recognizable shape in doesn't exactly endear them to the shopping centre carpark; Audi, as Audi is supposed to be amongst the many other fauxthe everyman-luxury brand within wheel-drives. the VW group. If you think that The shape of the car is quite deAudi are over-reacting, take a ceptive. It's smaller than it looks drive in a Škoda Superb wagon and it doesn't take up more garand compare it to an Audi of age floor space than a Golf. And equivalent quality, size and feathe Golf is appropriate to mention tures. here because the Yeti borrows not Yeti Another Funny Name only mechanical components from the VW goodies box, but also Don't laugh. Look at the sales. some of the interior trim. Which is The Yeti is one of Škoda's bestcertainly not to the detriment of selling cars since first going on the Yeti. sale in 2009. Its popularity and competence are underscored by The vertical rear hatch is wide, winning Top Gear's Family Car providing good access to the inteaward that year. One of many rior. A number of hooks are proawards. vided, along with a net, to stop your precious cargo going its own Two Useful Boxes way around the capacious and The whole car, from the simple variable compartment. Rear seats two-box shape standing high with are individually foldable, moveaa wheel at each corner, reeks of ble and removable, allowing the practicality; but not to the detriowner to adapt the vehicle's cament of comfort. Škoda's styling pacity to best suit their individual

Page 24 needs. Due to the strength needed in modern car seats to satisfy crashworthiness requirements, the seats are however heavy; so you'll not want to lift them out and in too often — except perhaps to save on gymn costs.

Thanks to the upright sitting position in both the front and the back seats, there's room for adults in every seat. Removing the centre seat in the back row allows the outer seats to be slid towards the centre, providing plenty of elbow-room in the back.

That is however at the expense of the tray integrated into the back of the centre seat.

Getting in and out of the car is a doddle thanks to the height of the car and the wide-opening doors.

That's appreciated especially by those whose joints and bones aren't as flexible as they might wish.

Silent Snowman The doors close solidly with the trademarked VW thunk and you will be hard-pressed to hear the engine at idle. Which is not just due to the engine itself but also the excellent isolation, insulation and sound-absorbing surfaces in the car's interior.

Once moving, the light, yet positive steering impresses with accuracy, blemished by a total lack of feedback from the wheels on the ground; now seemingly par for the course for the electromechanically assisted steering setups in VW group vehicles.

Brake and accelerator pedals are also light to operate. Brakes work well even with the light pedal.

The car stops well. Anti-lock brakes mean that the car can still be steered while slowing the car as quickly as possible, even on tricky surfaces.

The accelerator is a good drive-by -wire job, the engine throttle responds quickly but the action of the automatic gear change sometimes frustrates being able to do (Continued on page 25)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 25

(Continued from page 24)

exactly what one wants with the car. A pregnant pause, seemingly euivalent to an elephant's gestation period, can leave the car breathless" at suburban speeds when a burst of acceleration is needed for e.g. a safe lane change on a busy road.

Multiple Personality Order The DSG transmission can be operated in 3 modes. Standard Drive performs adequately in light traffic, changing to the highest available gear for the road speed.

That works OK for economy; on average. Sports mode is quite aggressive, especially in the way that it holds onto lower gears, even at moderate speeds. It does the right thing as one backs off on the accelerator quickly approaching corners or sharp bends by changing down a couple of cogs to keep the engine in its broad power band. Hanging onto a lower gear to keep the engine on-tap is probably to the detriment of fuel economy when cruising. Fortunately, one doesn't have to stop the car to change the personality of automatic gear changes; just push the lever to D when cruising.

are simply delayed until they are possible.

driven overhead camshaft. The 8valve cross-flow head has an airliquid "intercooler" mounted at First gear of the seven is very the back to cool the intake air aflow, perhaps in deference to the ter it's compressed by the turbooff-road looks. Locked into first or charger at the front of the engine. even in sports mode, dropping Thanks largely to the small, variathe lead foot can produce not only ble geometry turbocharger, the breaking of traction, but axle engine develops maximum torque tramp of sorts. The driver has to of 175 Nm from about 1500 rpm be sufficiently coherent to lift the to beyond 4000 rpm. Maximum foot because the car isn't going to power is 77 kW, produced at make it look elegant from any 5000 rpm. perspective.

The engine draws fresh air from Behind the Chrome Mo' above the radiator, behind the The engine is in the front, just in chrome moustache above the verfront of the axle. It's mounted tically-slatted, black grille. sensibly high for an "off-road" It's a little engine but the power car. There is plenty of space in characteristic is more like that of the engine compartment, certaina big four. Which is not bad news ly enough to house the much bigas the low engine speeds not only ger 2.0-litre TDI of the 4WD vermean potentially better combussion. tion and therefore better use of Manual, sequential gear selection Ĺ koda is said to have driven the fuel, but also a longer life because is also available by moving the development of the 1.2 TSI, using the pistons don't have to move as selector lever to the left. A push the 16-valve 1.4 TSI as a base. far per kilometre driven. back changes down one gear and Development shed about 24 kg; a push forward changes up. AltThe small engine warms up quickby simplification and other hough the changes aren't instanly, but it also cools down more means, bringing the engine mass taneous, they're at least as fast quickly than the bigger-block endown to about 89 kg. The result is as a change with a manual geargines. You'll notice that in winter. used in a number of small to mebox with one difference; you don't dium cars produced by the VW The View from On High have to take your foot off the group.

Visibility all around the car is exthrottle when changing up or down. The brains of the DSG pre- 1.2 litres doesn't sound like a big cellent. Combined with the boxy shape, this makes the Yeti easy vents sequential changes that are engine, but this one is directinjected and turbocharged. An to place on the road and in a impossible or which would damalloy block is used with cast iron parking spot. age the engine or the gearbox. cylinder liners and a chainSuch changes (Continued on page 26) Yoga in the Park

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West the usual audio programme, be it radio or CD. The author wondered why he couldn't play the music stored on his mobile phone, using the Bluetooth connection.

(Continued from page 25)

The view inside is made imperfect by two problems evident from the author's favoured driving position; the speedometer and the view of the road through the windscreen. With the seat positioned to give a high driving position, the author found that the numbers on the left side of the speedometer scale were unreadable — no numbers from 20 to 80 km/h — because the speedometer's bezel is not angled towards the driver.

From the same driving position, the rear view mirror on the windscreen often obscures part of the view of the road across the corner when turning left. It can also create a blind spot for a car on an on-ramp to the freeway. The mirror seems to be a too low on the windscreen; about 20 centimetres from the top; almost in the centre of the screen.

Flipping down the sun visor on the driver's side can be a pain as the recess in the (plush) headliner that allows for a proper grip on the visor, is well to the left of the visor. Drivers with long fingernails may have problems.

The Swing audio system can play CDs loaded with MP3 tracks providing many hours of Mahler, Wagner, Beethoven and Verdi to keep the kids entertained on a long drive, all from the one disc.

There's an auxiliary audio input socket in the centre console, providing basic connectivity for other player devices; not the ability to e.g. skip tracks, but at least the volume can controlled.

Picky Drinker In a VW with

central locking, one traditionally finds that the fuel filler flap is locked along with all the doors. Škoda might have a historically-based aversion to centralised control, so the filler flap opens to reveal an Singin' the Blues ordinary, key-locking filler cap to Steering wheel controls for the protect the precious fluid from onboard trip computer also let the nefarious types. owner set certain comfort options Refuelling shouldn't happen too and to manage daytime running often. The little TSI goes about lights. Buttons are also used to 600 km on a tankfull, depending pair the Škoda's audio system on how you drive and the quality with most Bluetooth-capable moof the fuel, you might exceed 700 bile phones, with the dashboard km. But not likely with lots of display used to access the suburban driving. Although the phone's contact list (when availaengine will run on premium unble) to make calls. Calls can be leaded petrol (PULP) with 95 ocanswered by pressing a button on tane rating, it works better on 98 the steering wheel, which silences

Page 26 RON, providing a sharper response and lower fuel consumption. People will have to work it out for themselves which fuel works best for their life.

Europeans have the option of a Yeti Greenline with 1.6-litre TDI engine, driving the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. That uses quite a bit less fuel; expect more than 1000 km when cruising; but isn't available with a DSG transmission; perhaps to help save the planet.

Australian may rejoice that they can also buy a diesel Yeti, the 2.0 -litre TDI developing 103kW and gobs of torque, with either manual and DSG 6-speed transmission, driving all 4 wheels. Even that model's fuel consumption is lower than the TSI's. But there are still good reasons for people to buy a petrol engined car than a diesel; one of them being the price difference (in this case, unfair to compare because of the power and drivetrain differences) and that the fuel savings for a few short trips simply don't add up. Besides; when it's cold, you appreciate that the petrol engine is less efficient because the inefficiency means more heat for the car's interior.

Making Tracks On the road, the Yeti is generally quiet, the engine remains audible but subdued while cruising. Road noise often exceeds engine noise, especially on WA's rough highfriction highway surfaces.

Ride is smooth. The suspension, while supple, keeps body roll to a minimum while cornering.

This particular Yeti is only frontwheel drive making it little more suitable for off-road use than any

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

(Continued on page 27)

August 2013

Via West (Continued from page 26)

other frontwheel drive car.

Ground clearance and short overhangs will help when negotiating rougher tracks and getting over those pesky kerbs.

Even the four-wheel drive Yeti probably shouldn't be considered a serious off-roader. Slowly revers-

Page 27

ing the Yeti diagonally down a mountable kerb reveals movement at the door rubbers, so the large body shell probably doesn't have the structural rigidity for heavy duty off-roading. Nevertheless, the Internet abounds with videos of people successfully negotiating dirt, sand and mud tracks in 4WD Yetis.

Wrapper The Ĺ koda Yeti with 1.2 TSI engine driving the front wheels works well as a large "hatchback wagon", providing space for adults in all seats as well as a sizeable luggage compartment. Although the engine is small in displacement, the turbocharger adds more than sufficient motivation to the car, letting it easily keep up with traffic. On the road, the car is generally quiet and rides comfortably, though road noise can be intrusive on some rough surfaces. Handling is top class; surprisingly good for such a tall vehicle.

With current pricing (mid-2013), the Yeti discount packages offer excellent value, competitive with brands from Asia.

Copyright Š 2013 Bernd Felsche, Perth, Western Australia. All Rights Reserved Some photos have been taken from the VW media site

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 28

August Club Run - Dwellingup Dwellingup VW Club Camping Trip 17-18th August 2013 A few of us in the club are keen campers and have often frequented the beautiful national park in Dwellingup.

The pine plantations, rivers, flora and fauna in this part of WA of just so tranquil it calls you back time after time.

So its planned to revisit Dwellingup on the weekend of 17 18th August.

Bring your tent, your Kombi or whatever you like to camp in, as well as your bike, hiking boots or just a comfy chair to relax in.

Please provide any feedback‌ questions or suggestions...that you may have.

Event Coordinator: You can choose to travel on the Jamie Barrett Friday night after work or on the Mobile: 0408 183 396 Saturday...either way, there will probably be others that may want Details will also be posted on the to cruise in a group. club forum.

According to the... http://www.dwellingupwa.com.au website the Dwellingup Community Markets are on Sunday, August 18, from 9am – 1pm at the RSL Hall.

Check out the website for any other information that you would like on Dwellingup.

After a great weekend you can look forward to an enjoyable cruise in convoy back to Perth or where ever your home happens to be.

Dwellingup VW Club Camping Trip 17-18th August

Event Coordinator: Jamie Barrett - Mobile: 0408 183 396 1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 29

2013 Annual General Meeting Date: Wednesday 25th Sept.

Time: 6:00pm - 8:30pm

...these seats are waiting for you!

Where: John Hughes Training Facility 22 Teddington Street, Victoria Park (Next to “Office Choice”)

Come along and see what your Committee has been doing for you in 2012/13. Exercise your right as members to vote on issues and vote in the next year’s Committee. You may even want to become a Committee Member and help serve your club.

These are exciting times for the club...record membership…

2015 sees its 60th Anniversary...2016 sees the National VW Bug-In back in WA. 1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 30

2013 Annual General Meeting 2013 Annual General Meeting Agenda Outline

Motions on Notice: Secretary to be advised, to be placed before the AGM. Reports: Committee members will submit reports to the meeting, making copies available to the Secretary.

6:00pm;

The Treasurer:

Complete the attendance book

Shall present a summary and report of the accounts for 2012/13, showing clearly the nett surplus or deficit and the financial position of the club.

Coffee/tea provided Meeting Open 6:30pm: The meeting will be opened and chaired by the President.

Present: As per the attendance book.

Apologies: Secretary to be advised and they are to be announced at the meeting.

Welcome to Visitors: Visitors are welcome, Secretary to be advised.

Minutes of previous AGM: Copies will be made available by the Secretary for acceptance by the meeting.

Business arising from Minutes of previous AGM: Any business listed in the Minutes of the previous AGM to be tabled (action noted).

Correspondence: Will be acknowledged by the Secretary with anything specific for the AGM to be highlighted.

They will make copies of the Financial Statement available to attending members and a copy for the Secretary.

They will present a ‘forecast’ budget for the 2013/14 financial year and make a submission to the meeting on the membership subscription fee for the financial year following the AGM (2014/15).

General Business: The meeting shall pass by resolution; (a) the subscription fee for the year following the AGM (2013/14); and (b) the form of the Membership Card.

Announcements will be made for the Member of the Year; any new Lifetime Membership/s and the Membership Early Renewal Payment Competition Winner.

Other General Business Please advise the Secretary of any matters that wish to be discussed.

Election of Management Committee: All committee positions become vacant at the AGM. The club's committee for the next year will be voted in.

Financial Members can nominate for any committee position in the Club, and obviously we need nominations for any position that is currently vacant or becoming vacant.

The Secretary is to be advised of any committee member/s not renominating and of any nominations for committee positions.

Committee members are required to attend all Committee Meetings and undertake all their positions' duties for the club. If you have any query about a position's role in the club you can contact any committee member for information. There is also information in the Constitution.

Where there are multiple nominations for the one committee position, a vote of attending financial members will decide who is successful.

Every financial member personally present at the AGM is entitled to vote for each position to be elected and voting is by secret ballot.

The person receiving the most votes for a committee position shall be elected to that committee position.

The elected committee member shall hold that position until the next Annual General Meeting or (if sooner) until their committee membership otherwise terminates.

8:30pm Scheduled close of AGM

Wanted - New Committee Members MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS

The current club committee already has vacant positions (committee members serving in more than one position) and several committee members that have been serving for many years have indicated they will not be renominating this year.

This is your opportunity to help your club with the day-to-day running and to bring along some fresh new ideas. Not sure, please talk to a current committee member to find out what's involved. Retiring committee members will also be available to assist easing you into the roles. Think about it, we are sure you will enjoy the experience!

The committee structure is detailed on page two of the ViaWest.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

World’s 30 millionth Golf drives off the assembly line in Wolfsburg “Car of the Year 2013” award presented in Wolfsburg

With technologies such as the safe front-wheel drive of the first Golf, the debut of the TDI in the third Golf, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the dual clutch gearbox of the fourth Golf and the standard Automatic PostCollision Braking System of the new generation, this car has continued to democratise progress.

An optimum of safety, comfort and driving fun are no longer a question of money thanks to the Golf. And so our bestseller lives up to the Volkswagen name.” The milestone vehicle will be officially on display for employees of the Wolfsburg plant this coming Saturday at the plant’s “open house day”.

It is an event of historical dimen- The seven Golf generations that wrote history. sions: the world’s 30 millionth Golf has come off the assembly line at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg – a new production record for the most successful European car ever. Production of the original Golf began in early 1974.

Since then, statistically speaking, an average of over 2,000 people have purchased a new Golf – “das Auto” itself – every day over the past 39 years. The 30 millionth car is a Golf TDI BlueMotion; this recently introduced model has a fuel consumption value of just 3.2 l/100 km, making it the most fuel efficient Golf ever built.

Page 31

Golf II (1983 to 1991): This was the Golf in which Volkswagen technologies such as the controlled catalytic converter (1984), ABS (1986) and allwheel drive (1986) were introduced. In this generation, the model series also advanced to become a definitive icon. Marc Lichte, lead exterior designer for Volkswagen recalls: “Back then, one of the key moments in the history of the Golf was the decision by board members to further develop the styling of the Golf I and conceptualise the Golf II based on its “visual DNA”. This set everything into motion, and Volkswagen created the foundation for continuous development of the model series.”

Golf I (1974 to 1983): “It

all began in 1974 with a revolution,” is how Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for the Volkswagen brand describes it. “The step from the Beetle to the Golf was revolutionary. A new vehicle layout was created with the converGolf III (1991 to 1997): sion from an air-cooled rear enIn 1991, Volkswagen initiated a gine to a water-cooled front enOn Thursday, Prof. Martin Wingine and from rear-wheel drive to new era of safety in the third terkorn, Chairman of the Board generation. For one, the Golf III front-wheel drive. of Management of Volkswagen was the first model in the series AG, also officially accepted the In terms of the car’s styling, to offer front airbags in 1992; for “Car of the Year 2013” award for Volkswagen designers switched another, great progress in the the Golf conferred by the 60 from round shapes to a rectangu- area of body manufacturing led member international jury for the lar design structure – based on to further improvements in crash highly esteemed award. Prof. the legendary design study by properties. The first TDI engine Winterkorn commented on both Giorgio Giugiaro”. of these events: “The history of (Continued on page 32) the Golf is also the history of automotive progress.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

(Continued from page 31)

of the model series was also introduced in this Golf (1993).

Golf IV (1997 to 2003): Under the direction of the former Head of Design (Group) Hartmut Warkuß, a precise design was created that would pave the way for the future of Volkswagen. Today, experts look upon the Golf IV as a design icon and a pioneer for the series. But this Golf was also an engineering innovator with technologies such as ESC (1998) and the dual clutch gearbox (2002).

left many a competitor of the upper mid-class trailing behind. A value that illustrates the stability of the laser-welded body is the 35 per cent gain in torsional rigidity when the Golf V made its

Page 32 consumption was reduced by as much as over 23 per cent compared to the previous model, depending on the specific engine.

The forerunner of this movement is the Golf TDI BlueMotion with a

debut in 2003. The first Golf BlueMotion (4.5 l/100 km fuel consumption) – based on the Golf V – was created in 2007.

combined fuel consumption of just 3.2 l/100km, and it is also the 30 millionth car produced.

The Golf VII will definitely go down in history as the compact Golf VI (2008 to 2012): model in which an entire armada The body, once again welded by of new assistance systems made laser, was so safe that it perits debut. They are systems such formed with flying colours in Eu- as PreCrash preventive occupant roNCAP crash testing, attaining protection and the Automatic Post its maximum five star rating. The -Collision Braking System – techtriumph of the TSI engines (high- nologies that were more likely to tech petrol engines) and conver- be offered in the premium class sion of the turbodiesels (TDI) to than in the compact class previthe common rail system led to ously. That too signifies a democmore dynamic performance and ratisation of automotive progress. better fuel economy. The forerunner was the second Golf BlueMotion, which offered a combined fuel consumption value of just 3.8 l/100 km.

Golf VII (since 2012):

Weight was reduced by up to 100 kg in the seventh generation was the Golf, its comfort, dynam- Golf, reversing the much disics and above all its quality that cussed upward weight spiral. Fuel

Golf V (2003 to 2008): It

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Volkswagen Motorsport News Formula Volkswagen South Africa Double victory: Robert Wolk also dominant in East London Robert Wolk once again dominated the races in South Africa’s Formula Volkswagen in East London, scoring a comfortable double victory and therefore further improving his impressive victory tally to nine wins in ten races. The outstanding overall leader was followed in both races by his Investchem team colleague Werner Scholtz in second place.

Third place in the first race on the Grand Prix circuit was clinched by Chris Shorter, while Rui Campos made it onto the winners’ rostrum in the second race, thereby achieving the best placement of his career in this racing series.

Formula Volkswagen features formula racing cars “powered

by Volkswagen”. The next races in the series are scheduled for 3 August at Phakisa.

Page 33

Engen Volkswagen Cup South Africa Weyers celebrates sixth season victory and defends overall lead.

Masters of Formula 3 in Zandvoort Harry Tincknell best Volkswagen driver at Masters of Formula

Kosie Weyers scored his sixth win of the season and has defended his overall lead in South Africa’s Volkswagen Cup. Starting in pole position, he won the first race of the day in East London in his Polo, followed by Mathew Hodges in second place and Jeffrey Kruger in third. Weyers was then forced to retire from the second race early on, and the race was then won by Mark Silverwood in a photo finish, making it Silverwood’s third win this year. Hot on his heels were Dewald Brummer, who was a mere 0.021 seconds behind him, and Mathew Hodges in third place. After ten of the season’s races, Weyers now leads overall with 226 points, ahead of Brummer (179) and Hodges (178). The Engen Volkswagen Cup features talented racing drivers who compete in almost identical Polos, for guaranteed racing action.

With a fourth place finish, Harry Tincknell, the fastest of the Volkswagen drivers, just missed out on a podium spot at the prestigious Masters of Formula 3 event in Zandvoort. Although the British driver had secured a place on the front row in qualifying, he lost two positions at the start of the race after suffering too much wheel spin.

After 25 laps of racing, Tincknell had to be content with fourth place at the legendary circuit amongst the sand dunes of the Dutch North Sea coast. The Masters of Formula 3 can look back on a long and colourful history.

Before becoming Formula 1 racing drivers, Nico Hülkenberg, Paul Di Resta and Lewis Hamilton once won in the sand dunes of Zandvoort. Felix Rosenqvist tasted victory for the second time in his Masters career on Sunday, finishing ahead of Alex Lynn and Emil Bernstorff.

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

(Continued on page 34)

August 2013

Via West Goodwood Festival of Speed Hackenberg, Sainz and Depping thrill in the Polo R WRC

(Continued from page 33)

FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) Volkswagen testing in preparation for the Rally Germany Volkswagen prepared for its home race in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) with five days of testing. With under seven weeks to go until the Rally Germany (22 to 25 August) staged in and around Trier, the three Volkswagen works drivers have been working on the set-up of their 315 horsepower 'made in Wolfsburg' World Rally Cars.

Testing was carried out at the Arena Panzerplatte and on the routes around Veldenz as the weather conditions alternated between heavy rain and brilliant sunshine. The teams of Jari-Matti Latvala/Miikka Anttila (both Finland) and Andreas Mikkelsen/ Mikko Markkula (Norway/Finland) have been working well together and are using this as an opportunity to attune to the varying asphalt and concrete road surfaces. World Championship leader Sébastien Ogier (France) was joined by compatriot Nicolas Klinger for the tests. His regular co-driver Julien Ingrassia (France) is recovering from a collarbone fracture.

A galaxy of stars and a first at the 20th Goodwood Festival of Speed: Volkswagen was represented by the Polo R WRC at the iconic motorsport event in the county of West Sussex in the south of England. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg (D), Board Member for Technical Development at Audi AG since 1st July 2013 with responsibility for the technical development of all Volkswagen Group brands, joined Volkswagen test and development driver Dieter Depping (D) at the wheel of the 315-hp four wheel-drive powerhouse from Wolfsburg for the traditional hill climb.

Page 34 FIA Formula 3 European Championship Eventful weekend at the Norisring: Tincknell best-placed driver “powered by Volkswagen”

The FIA Formula 3 European Championship experienced an extremely dramatic race weekend on the Norisring in Nuremberg.

The first of the three races initially saw twelve of the 28-strong field handed time penalties for overtaking during a yellow flag phase. After a protest, however, the race management retracted the penalties and Harry Tincknell (GB), who in the meantime had looked like being awarded the runner-up position, ultimately found himself as the best-placed Volkswagen driver in sixth. Tincknell was also the fastest driver The other stars in the “powered by Volkswagen” in the Volkswagen contingent in front of remaining two races on the 2.3sold-out grandstands at Goodkilometre street circuit, claiming wood House included two-time two eighth places. Also in the World Rally Champion and points for Volkswagen over the Volkswagen consultant Carlos course of the weekend were JorSainz (E), Le Mans winner Jackie dan King (GB) with two ninths, Ickx (B) and Hans-Joachim Stuck André Rudersdorf (D) who fin(D), Motorsport Representative ished ninth in the opening race, for the Volkswagen Group. and Sven Müller (D) who came home in tenth in race three. After 18 of 30 races, Tincknell is currently fifth in the overall standings.

(Continued on page 35)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 35

13th on his return to the Scirocco R-Cup. Belgium’s Marc Duez was 16th. As usual, the spectacular street circuit produced a number of incidents and one safety car phase.

(Continued from page 34)

Volkswagen Racing Cup Great Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup Britain Van der Linde completes hat-trick Depper and Lines dominate in the of wins in “Franconian Monaco” Ardennes saw the “Las Moras Racingteam” close the gap on Jan Evers and At the highlight of the season at The two KPM drivers Martin DepHenny van Doorn of “The Dukes” the Norisring, Kelvin van der per (GB) and Stewart Lines (GB) team in the overall standings.

Linde won an eventful race to made their mark on the fifth race Second place in Zolder meant complete a hat-trick of victories weekend of the Volkswagen Rac“The Dukes” were able to hold in the Volkswagen Scirocco Ring Cup. Depper triumphed in the onto their lead. They currently Cup. The 17-year-old South Afri- first race of the weekend in Spahave 55 points at the halfway can claimed his third win in a row Francorchamps in his Scirocco R, point of the season – just one to extend his lead in the overall just managing to hold off teamahead of the “Las Moras Racingstandings. Second place in Numate Lines to claim his first win team” on 54. remberg once again went to the of the season. The result was reflying Dane Michelle Gatting, who versed in race two: Lines narrowis sponsored by the FIA Women ly defeated Depper. Aaron Mason Rally Estonia in Motorsport programme. Swe(GB), who had led both races, Latvala lives out childhood dream den’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky finished third and seventh to ex- – looking ahead to the Rally Fincrossed the line in fourth place tend his lead in the overall stand- land behind Manuel Fahnauer (D) to ings. His closest rival coming into complete a strong result for the the race weekend, Ross Wylie ladies in the field. Nicola Larini (GB), opted to line up in the Sci(I), starting in the Legends com- rocco R-Cup at the Norisring this petition, endured a disappointing weekend rather than travel to day.

Belgium.

The winner of the opening race at the Hockenheimring was handed a drive-through penalty by the race management, for which he came into the pits one lap too late and was consequently shown the black flag and disqualified.

The best-placed “legend” was three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner (D), who impressed on his way to fifth place. 69-year-old Harald Grohs recovered from a disappointing qualifying to produce a furious comeback. Starting from 20th on the grid, Grohs moved through the field to finish

Driving the Audi Quattro, a classic in the world of motor racing, Volkswagen’s Finnish driver JariMatti Latvala (FIN) put in a first class performance at the Rally Volkswagen Endurance Cup Estonia. Winning six of the eight Netherlands stages, only a technical problem “The Dukes” defend their overall on the penultimate stage could lead spoil his chances of a successful title defence. “I’ve always wanted Zolder (B) hosted the fourth to drive this car. Thanks to round of the Volkswagen EndurVolkswagen, I have been able to ance Cup Netherlands on fulfil a lifelong dream,” said LatWednesday. The 190-hp Golf Vs vala. “I am now really excited by spent seven hours out on the the prospect of racing in Finland.”

4.011-kilometre circuit. The “Las The eighth race of the FIA World Moras Racingteam” finally Rally Championship (WRC) seaemerged triumphant. The fiveson will be taking place in Latman team started from pole posivala’s homeland from 1 to 3 Aution and proved to be the fastest gust. car in the field. Victory in Zolder

(Continued on page 36)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West Volkswagen Motorsport. In this role, he has contributed to the team’s successful début in the competition.

(Continued from page 35)

Before the big event, the three Volkswagen pairings will be undertaking tests 200 kilometres north of Helsinki. Lavala, World Championship leader Sébastien Ogier (FRA) and the Norwegian Andreas Mikkelsen are using this as a chance to work on the set-up of their 315 horsepower Polo R WRCs before the fastest rally on the racing calendar.

Volkswagen Polo R-Cup India South African Kruger makes a strong start

With victory and a second place finish, Jeffrey Kruger made a dream start in this season’s Formula 1 Young Driver Test Volkswagen Polo R-Cup. In the Carlos Sainz Jr. just a whisker opening race, the South African behind World Champion Vettel guest driver could not find a way Former Volkswagen driver Carlos past Indian pole-sitter Rahil NooSainz Jr. (ESP) has put one foot rani and had to settle for second in the door of motor racing’s place. However, Kruger followed premier competition by impressthis up with a victory from seving at Formula 1’s Young Driver enth on the grid, finishing ahead Test. After the results over the of the impressive Indian rookie three test days were combined, Karthik Tharani and Noorani. With he finished in third place only four of the five race weekends 0.122 seconds behind three-time still to come, Kruger has moved World Champion Sebastian Vettel to the top of the overall stand(GER). The 18-year-old Sainz Jr. ings. Now into its fourth season, spent half a day in both the Red the Polo R-Cup has fourteen new Bull and the Torro Rosso. “I hope racers on board along with the my dream of driving in Formula 1 seven drivers from the previous will soon become reality. Maybe I campaign. Last year’s winner could be World Champion one Sandeep Kumar (IND) is competday,” said Sainz Jr. Last year, the ing in this season’s Volkswagen Spaniard took part in the Formula Scirocco R-Cup in Germany with 3 Euroseries and the British Foryoung drivers from across the mula Three Championship. He is globe. currently racing in the GP3 Series.

His father Carlos Sainz, a twotime World Rally Champion and winner of the 2010 Dakar Rally in the Race Touareg, has been working as an advisor for

Page 36 in Port Elizabeth, Hergen Fekken and Pierre Arries (ZA/ZA) were the best Volkswagen pairing with a fifth place finish. Driving the Polo R, the Volkswagen duo came home 5:44.4 minutes behind the winners Mark Cronje and Robin Houghton, who also lead in the overall standings. Third place went to Giniel de Villiers (ZA), who, whilst driving the Race Touareg with German Dirk von Zitzewitz, secured Volkswagen’s first ever victory at the Dakar Rally in 2009. Volkswagen Sasolracing duo Enzo Kuun and Douglas Judd (ZA/ZA) also made it into the top ten with a sixth place finish. The thousands of spectators that attended over the two days made for a spectacular backdrop at the Volkswagen Rally.

VW Scirocco R-Cup China A pair of top two finishes: Andrea Reggiani extends his lead at the top of the leaderboard in Ordos

By finishing in the top two twice, Andrea Reggiani was able to extend his lead at the top of the Scirocco R-Cup China overall standings. In the first of the races on Saturday, Reggiani came home in second place behind his closest rival in the Championship, China's Bao Jin Long. Danish driver Thomas Fjordbach, one of three Europeans competing in the race, finished third. Reggiani was victorious in race number two, holding Fjordbach back in second place.

Bao Jin Long was tenth and thus lost ground on the overall leader Reggiani. The lead at the top now stands at 19 points. 20 points are South African Rally Champship awarded for a race win.

Fekken and Arries finish fifth at www.volkswagen-motorsport.com Volkswagen Rally At the fourth race of this season’s © Volkswagen Motorsport South African Rally Championship Communications

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 37

at Alfreds.....Andy, Graham, Justin, Haz, Victor & Rossco sporting their new Hoodies!

MERCHANDISE LIST: 

Hoodies - small club 3D logo on front with stripes ................................ ........................$40.00 ........................$40.00 ea NEW Black with white design



T-shirt #2 - small club 3D logo on front with stripes ......................................................$25.00 NEW $25.00 ea ......................

Red or White with black design



V-neck Polo - design for the ladies & girls ....................................................................$30.00 ....$30.00 ea A name can be added for another $5.00



Polo Shirt - for the men & boys .....................................................................................$30.00 .....................$30.00 ea A pocket is an extra $5.00; A name can be added for another $5.00



T-shirt #1 - large club 3D logo on back and small 3D logo on front with stripes............$25.00 ............$25.00 ea Blue with white design



VW Club stickers .........................................................................................................$2.00 .........$2.00 ea Official club logo; 3D club logo; or “I’M “I’M A VW CLUB MEMBER”



VW Club cloth badge ...................................................................................................$5.00 ...$5.00 ea Traditional club logo



Day of the Volkswagen cloth badge & annual stickers ...............................................$2.00 ...............$2.00 ea Collectors items (limited numbers)



VW Club peak Cap .......................................................................................................$15.00 .......$15.00 ea Traditional club logo - adjustable velcro band at the rear



2011 Toodyay Bug-In ...................................................................................................$25.00 ...$25.00 ea 42nd National BugBug-In Metal car badge (limited number)

AVAILABLE AT CLUB EVENTS including ALFRED’S every month or contact the Committee!

Keep a watch out as there is more coming...

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 38 Being the 60th Anniversary of Volkswagen in Australia I will be reproducing some articles from 2003 - the 50th Anniversary year...the Editor

Although this article was first published in the ViaWest in 2004, its origins start back in 2002 and the development of the car took place during 2003.

CARGOFUN! ...based on the VW New Beetle The history of the pickup projekt follows: April 2002 Idea of the Pickup-projekt was born by question "Why isn‘t such a practical vehicle like the pickup present on the European Roads?"

The next step was the question "Which basic-vehicle should be taken for the project?".

For putting the idea of building a cool vehicle into practise only a vehicle with a certain character was possible. Through the success of the New Beetle in America and America as the epitome of pickup it was most attractive to put it into practise with the New Beetle.

On the basis of a pencil-outline it exposed fast that the proportions of the New Beetle are suitable to

rebuild it into a pickup. On the basis of a pencil-outline it exposed fast that the proportions of the New Beetle are suitable to rebuild it into a pickup. The penciloutlines were improved and the design was created.

May 2002 Firmly convinced that we will develop a car from the outlines we got in touch with VW.

1:1 models and he is a specialist at the processing of glass fibre plastic.

For the vehicle technical part the car mechanic master craftsman Günter Dahnke joined the project team. His calling card was the firm Beetles Revival in Wöbbelin which has a large know-how resulting from turning Beetles into convertibles.

For put the finishing touches a design-draft was built a 1:10 model.

We introduced the project to the DEKRA (the German vehicle registration office) so that there later were no problems with the admission.

February 2003

April 2003

The big response to the model was the clincher to start the project. It was our aim to realise a complete vehicle within a year which repose could be tested on the market.

Acquisition of a New Beetle (TD) as a basis for the conversion. We start to build a 1:1 model of the rear mudguards. Reinforcement of the subfloor of the vehicle subsequent clearance of parts of the car body near the b-pillar.

June - July 2002

March 2003

May 2003 The arrangement of the projectteam through the inclusion of two Modelling of a 1:1 model on a craftsmen. In support of the con- New Beetle. version of the design-model Mr Düwel joined the team. He had a lot of experience with modelling of (Continued on page 39)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

Page 39

(Continued from page 38)

June 2003 Production of the forms of parts of the car body in support of the 1:1 model. Production of parts of the car body made of glass fibre plastic.

July - August 2003 Development and building of the rear carryingconstruct.

September 2003 Introduction of the Concept car to the DEKRA in Klettwitz. At the introduction of the vehicle and at the statically tests there were no problems. First raw paint spraying of the concept car.

Oktober 2003 Development and building of construct of the tiltable bed.

November 2003 Development and interior finishing of the tailgate with trunk.

December 2003 Finishing touches and shaping of the outline of the concept car. Applying of another paint-spraying.

January 2004 Completion of the concept car February 2004 Approval of the concept car through the DEKRA. Presentation of the concept car at VW March 2004 First outing of the car.

April 2004 The introduction of the car through AUTO-BILD. The awesome response made us think about producing more then planned at the beginning.

2nd Quarter 2004 Redesign-study and building of 2 vehicles as the prototypes for the mini-series.

Information in this article is copyright Š

3rd Quarter 2004

Permission was granted to copy this information off the webpage by Heiko BĂśhringer.

Serial approval and preparation of the mini-series.

The official webpage is at;

4th Quarter 2004

http://www.cargofun.de/english/index.php

Start of the production

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

PW: I had to send in a 5minute video and some photos. Within 1 month I was contacted by them and was told that they wanted to come over and do some filming, as I was the state finalist. On WINNER! Wednesday 22nd January Peter Anyone who watched Better Colquhoun (presenter) and a Homes and Gardens on Tuesday cameraman came and filmed a 18th February will recognise Pat- little around the property and rick Wade and his prize winning then we all drove to the nearby “Buggycue” (so nicknamed by river, set up the barbie and durme). I caught up with Pat recently ing filming I was told that I had at his property in Maddington for actually won the competition. As this exclusive interview. for my chances, last years comGK: Hi Ya Pat. Congratulations on petition winner was a Holden, your win. Now for all our readers though it wasn’t mobile. Therefore as mine is mobile I felt I had please tell us…… a very good chance of winning GK: What year is the “Buggycue”? this year.

PW: It’s a mixed breed featuring GK: What exactly did you win? a 1972 shell on a Golf wheelbase.

PW: I won a trip for two to the GK: When did you build it and Northern Territory, a 7 piece outhow ling did it take? door setting and a top of the range Beefeater BBQ. A total PW: I built it in 1998 over 3 prize package valued at $10,500. weeks.

Page 40

This article is from the March 2003 ViaWest...the interview was done by the Secretary Gisella Kaup.

Put another SNAG on the BUGGYCUE!

door Kombi so that the doors could become fridge doors and so hold the beers! Maybe one day….

For all you interested readers, Pat’s prize-winning “Buggycue” should be appearing in the upcoming April edition of the Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

GK: What inspired you to build it? GK: I first saw your “Buggycue” at the Day of the Volkswagen PW: I first made a back seat back in 1998 at Fremantle. Can lounge which sits at “Volkswest“ we look forward to seeing it at Kenwick. Half jokingly, I told my this year’s Day of the mates that I’d build a BBQ next.

Volkswagen?

My mates laughed, but I went PW: Yes. ahead and built it, and have had numerous BBQs since. Too many GK: Cool. I’ll look forward then to to remember. an authentic VW sausage sizzle GK: As its now a prize-winning collectors piece, how much would you be tempted to sell it for?

courtesy of your “Buggycue”.

Well that’s it for now, over and out, signing off…

PW: At the very least $2,500.

Well thanks Pat for your time and congratulations once again for a job well done.

GK: In regards to the Better Homes and Gardens BBQ competition, how did you enter, and how did you rate your chances?

Later when I asked Pat what his Keep on Volksing. next project would be, his laughter filled reply was a “Kombi Spit” BBQ. I suggested he uses a barn

Gisella Kaup (Secretary and roving reporter)

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 41

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 42

August 2013

Via West

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia

Page 43

August 2013

Via West

Page 44

Members, do you know somebody that would like to JOIN THE CLUB‌ OR Non-members, would you like to JOIN THE CLUB‌ New Members are always welcome.

Please complete the Membership Application form attached to the back of this page and post to...

The Membership Officer Volkswagen Club of Western Australia (Inc) PO Box 175 Victoria Park Western Australia 6979 Enquiries Contact: Mobile: 0407347340 Email: administration@vwclubwa.com

1953 - 2013...Volkswagen commemorates 60 years in Australia