CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 78 YEARS
No. 389 August /September 2024
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
THE ANNUAL TREK SOUTH
9 418979 000012
IRISHMAN 2024 MARKETPLACE FIND THE VEHICLE OF YOUR DREAMS
BEHIND THE WHEEL OF A HEALEY ELLIOT DRIVING OUR HISTORY
Photo supplied to Beaded Wheels by Donald Suckling. Caption reads “Whitcombe & Tombs Limited photo of old 1914 Cadillac and their new all electric delivery vehicle taking outside Christchurch Hospital in 1915. Photograph owned by Estate C. M. Suckling, General Storekeeper, Tai Tapu. The editorial team are unsure if this supplied information about the vehicles is entirely accurate.
PHOTOGRAPHS REQUIRED: Submissions of suitable prints and information are welcome. Post or email original photographs or high resolution digital files of
historical interest with any available information to: beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz or Beaded Wheels, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Laserprints/photocopies are not suitable. Photos will be returned as soon as practicable.
VCCNZ BRANCHES A full list of branch addresses and contact details can also be found on the VCCNZ website at www.vcc.org.nz ASHBURTON PO Box 382, Ashburton 7740 ashburton@vcc.org.nz AUCKLAND PO Box 12-138, Penrose, Auckland 1642 auckland@vcc.org.nz BANKS PENINSULA C/O, 722 Waterholds Road, RD8 Christchurch 7678 bankspeninsula@vcc.org.nz BAY OF PLENTY PO Box 660, Tauranga 3144 bayofplenty@vcc.org.nz CANTERBURY PO Box 11-082, Sockburn Christchurch 8443 canterbury@vcc.org.nz CENTRAL OTAGO C/-114 Shortcut Road, Luggate, RD2, Wanaka 9382 centralotago@vcc.org.nz CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY C/- 448 Tukituki Road, RD1, Takapau 4286 centralhawkesbay@vcc.org.nz EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY PO Box 2168, Kopeopeo Whakatane 3159 easternbayofplenty@vcc.org.nz FAR NORTH C/– PO Box 312 Kaitaia 0441 farnorth@vcc.org.nz GISBORNE PO Box 307, Gisborne 4040 gisborne@vcc.org.nz GORE PO Box 329, Gore 9740 gore@vcc.org.nz HAWKE’S BAY PO Box 3406, Napier 4142 hawkesbay@vcc.org.nz HOROWHENUA PO Box 458, Levin 5540 horowhenua@vcc.org.nz KING COUNTRY C/- 923 Taringamotu Road, Taumarunui 3994 kingcountry@vcc.org.nz
MANAWATU PO Box 385 Palmerston North 4440 manawatu@vcc.org.nz MARLBOROUGH PO Box 422, Blenheim 7240 marlborough@vcc.org.nz NELSON PO Box 3531, Richmond 7050 nelson@vcc.org.nz NORTHLAND PO Box 17, Whangarei 0140 northland@vcc.org.nz NORTH OTAGO PO Box 360, Oamaru 9444 northotago@vcc.org.nz NORTH SHORE C/- 7 Godwit Place, Lynfield Auckland 1042 northshore@vcc.org.nz OTAGO C/- 125 Forbury Road, Saint Clair, Dunedin 9012 otago@vcc.org.nz ROTORUA PO Box 2014, Rotorua 3040 rotorua@vcc.org.nz SOUTH CANTERBURY 19 Redruth St, Timaru 7910 southcanterbury@vcc.org.nz SOUTHLAND PO Box 1240, Invercargill 9840 southand@vcc.org.nz SOUTH OTAGO C/- 1931 Breakneck Rd, RD 4, Balclutha 9274 southotago@vcc.org.nz SOUTH WAIKATO PO Box 403 Tokoroa 3420 southwaikato@vcc.org.nz TARANAKI C/- 7 Leatham Ave, Strandon, New Plymouth 4312 taranaki@vcc.org.nz TAUPO 33 AC Baths Ave, Taupo 5530 taupo@vcc.org.nz WAIKATO PO Box 924, Hamilton 3240 waikato@vcc.org.nz WAIMATE
4 Harris St, Waimate 7924 waimate@vcc.org.nz WAIRARAPA 24B Nikau Heights,Lansdowne, Masterton 5810 DRIVING OUR HISTORY wairarapa@vcc.org.nz WAITEMATA C/- 8 Jean Place, Stanmore Bay, FAR NORTH Whangaparoa 0932 waitemata@vcc.org.nz NORTHLAND NORTH SHORE WELLSFORD/ WANGANUI WARKWORTH PO Box 726, Whanganui 4541 wanganui@vcc.org.nz WELLINGTON AUCKLAND WAITEMATA PO Box 38418, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045 BAY OF PLENTY WAIKATO wellington@vcc.org.nz EASTERN BAY WELLSFORD/WARKWORTH OF PLENTY PO Box 547, Warkworth 0941 ROTORUA SOUTH WAIKATO wellsfordwarkworth@vcc.org.nz TAUPO WEST COAST GISBORNE KING COUNTRY C/- 143 Ward Street, Cobden TARANAKI Greymouth 7802, HAWKE’S BAY westcoast@vcc.org.nz WANGANUI CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY
MANAWATU HOROWHENUA
WAIRARAPA
NELSON
WELLINGTON MARLBOROUGH
WEST COAST CANTERBURY ASHBURTON WAIMATE CENTRAL OTAGO
SOUTHLAND
GORE
BANKS PENINSULA
SOUTH CANTERBURY NORTH OTAGO OTAGO
SOUTH OTAGO
NATIONAL OFFICE
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140 Phone 03 366 4461 Email admin@vcc.org.nz
Proudly supporting the
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“ D R I VI N G OU
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ISTORY ” H R
It’s the Vintage Car Club’s National Day and across New Zealand, hundreds of vehicles will be on the road or on display to raise money for your local Cancer Society.
To find out more about your local Daffodil Rally for Cancer visit:
www.vcc.org.nz
CONTENTS Issue 389 August/September 2024
FEATURES 9
16
Wasp Wars
10
Unlocking your car’s past
12
Behind The Wheel – 1950 Healey Elliot
16
Wasp Wars
22 24 Engineered for Espresso
09
31
Marketplace
Engineered for Espresso Another creation from the imagination of one of our readers.
The Journey of a Little Bit of Trim Rally Snippets 24
Vincents at the Northland Motorcycle Rally
25
Irishman 2024
28
Rosco Trials – West Coast Branch
25
Irishman
COLUMNS 5
From the Editor
40
Trade Directory
6
VCC Branch Events
41
President’s Message
7
Mailbag
41
Commemorative Awards
9
Timelines
42
Festival Update
29
Polishing the brass
43
National Office News
30
Archivist News
44
Branch News
31
Marketplace
58
Passing Lane
37
Swap Meets & Rallies
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Incorporated
COVER Fraser Kear and Meg Pigeon arrive in the correct attire, Irishman, see page 25. Photo Donald Wright.
National Office
Phone 03 366 4461 (9.30am–1.30pm) Email admin@vcc.org.nz
Postal Address PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand.
Address 12 Aberdeen St, Christchurch, New Zealand.
Website: www.vcc.org.nz
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
4 Beaded Wheels
Find us on facebook Vintage Car Club of New Zealand
The Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) is the worldwide organisation dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of historic vehicles and related culture. The Vintage Car Club of NZ (Inc) is a founding member of FIVA. VCC Life Member Rod Brayshaw is the New Zealand delegate to FIVA and also a member of the FIVA Technical Commission.
FROM THE
EDITOR
I’m really pleased that we now have a page specifically for veteran vehicle affairs. Following on from my request last issue for a veteran vehicles reporter we now have Paul Herron from Gore filling that role. (Nice to know at least a few people read this column!) His first effort is in this issue and there you will be able to read a bit about his background. Interestingly, I had suggested that he may wish to come up with his own special name for the column and this he has done – the new column is headed Polishing the Brass. Seems appropriate when you see all the brass on the vets that need polishing regularly! Our thanks to Paul for stepping up to that role. Veteran owners may wish to put Paul’s number on speed dial so they can keep him abreast of all things veteran as they happen. Our thanks go also to all the Branch Reporters for
Beaded Wheels Publisher
The Vintage Car Club of NZ Incorporated The Historic Vehicle Authority of New Zealand ISSN 0113-7506 Vol LXXV No. 389
Typesetting and Design
RGB Design & Print Ltd, Christchurch
Editor: Kevin Clarkson Sub Editors: Judith Bain, Rosalie Brown,
Mark Dawber, John McDonald, Greg Price, Charles Rushbrook
their efforts to provide us with interesting news and happenings in their branch each issue. At branch AGMs throughout the country some Branch Reporters have moved on, and others have stepped up to replace them. We thank you all and extend a warm welcome to the new Reporters.
Beaded Wheels has been around a long time, probably longer than most magazines out there. In the beginning there was the Guff Sheet, a newsletter style information bulletin that first appeared in May 1953. That continued on a quarterly basis (more or less!) until the first issue of Beaded Wheels in March 1955. That first issue was in a magazine style format, but a little smaller that the magazine we see today. So, 71 years of Beaded Wheels – a lot of history there. I am occasionally asked how long I have been doing this job.
Correspondence & Editorial Contributions Email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz Phone 64 3 332 3531, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140.
Advertising Enquiries
Classified and Display Advertising to: Email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Phone 64 3 332 3531 Rate schedule available on request.
Back Issues Available on request to admin@vcc.org.nz
Until I did the numbers I was never sure but it’s about 25 years – maybe too long, some would say!
Beaded Wheels is first and foremost a club magazine, but we do have non-member subscribers and we also sell copies in selected book stores around the country. Both of these outlets help support the finances of the magazine and are important to us. Additionally, the presence on the book stands is valuable as it is one way we can have Beaded Wheels represent the face of the Vintage Car Club to the public. Magazine sales generally (excluding Beaded Wheels) are on the decline. Magazine retail outlets have reduced by 17.5% from 2021 to 2024 and in the year up to June 2024 magazine sales dropped by a massive 11% compared with the previous year. This is merely following the trend of all sections of the print Subscriptions
Beaded Wheels subscribers change of address to: PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140. Phone 03 366 4461, Email admin@vcc.org.nz Annual subscription (6 issues) $52* inc GST Australian subscription (6 issues) NZ$112* Other countries (6 issues) NZ$185* Digital subscription (6 issues) NZ$39 available from vcc.org.nz or issuu.com. *Payment by credit card incurs additional bank fee processing charge of 2%
media struggling with reduced sales. I would assume that we will see some further consolidation over the next few years. I may be biased, of course, but when I look at the list of the top 10 printed magazines by sales, I can see where some consolidation would be really useful! What do you think? 1 Woman’s Day 2. NZ Woman’s Weekly 3. New Idea 4. NZ Listener 5. TV Guide NI 6. People’s Friend 7. Aust Women’s Weekly 8. NZ House & Garden 9. Hello 10. That’s Life
Kevin Clarkson Editor Beaded Wheels
Copyright Information
The contents are copyright. Articles may be reproduced complete or in part provided that acknowledgement is made to “Beaded Wheels, the magazine of The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Incorporated” as the source. Reproduction of articles must be at least 12 months after original Beaded Wheels publication date. Beaded Wheels reserves the right to digitally store all published material for archival purposes.
CLOSING DATES FOR OCTOBER/NOVEMBER
Editorial Copy 23 August 2024 • Advertisements 10 September 2024
Beaded Wheels 5
VINTAGE CAR CLUB BRANCH EVENTS
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
Next generation at Irishman. Photo Kylie Davis.
AUGUST
7 Hawke’s Bay 7 South Otago 7 Wells/Wlkworth 8 Nelson 9-11 Bay of Plenty 10 Ashburton 11 Banks Peninsula 15 North Otago 18 Banks Peninsula 18 Canterbury 18 Central Otago 18 Taupo 21 Auckland 21 Waikato 24 Wellington 25 NATIONAL 28 Waimate 29 Ashburton 29 Central Otago 29 North Otago 29 Otago 30 Hawke’s Bay 31 Banks Peninsula 31 Rotorua
SEPTEMBER
1 Far North 1 Hawke’s Bay 1 Marlborough 4 North Otago 7 C. Hawke’s Bay 7 Waimate 8 Ashburton 8 Canterbury
8 Waikato 15 Canterbury
Wednesday Run Wednesday Run Miidweek Run Visit to Craig Boote VCC Executive & National AGM Night Trial Hadstock Field Tests Mid-Month Run Awards Luncheon OCBC Weekend Run Club Run Midweek Tourer’s Run Wednesday Wander Daffodil Day Display Daffodil Rally for Cancer Midweek Run Midweek Run Thursday Muster Motorcycle Run Midweek Run Mix n’ Mingle Brooklands Race Meeting Levels Sulphur City Rally Father’s Day Run Cruise in for Cancer Car display Auction Night Vintage Car Rally Swap Meet Opening Run with S. Cant. Womans & Young Drivers Rally Ladies Motoring Meander OCBC
15 Hawke’s Bay 15 Otago 15 South Canterbury 15 Taupo 15 Wairarapa 15 Wanganui 18 Auckland 18 Waikato 19 North Otago 20-22 North Shore 20-23 Wellington 21 Taranaki
Sunday Run PWV/P60/P80 Rally Continental Run Club Run Groves Memorial Rally Club Run Midweek Tourer’s Run Wednesday Wander Mid-Month Run Spring Tour Manawatu Meander Rubber Duckie Motorcycle Rally 21 Hororata Swap Meet 21 Gore Dickson Auction 21 Otago PWV/P60/P80 Rally 22 Ashburton Spring Rally 22 Banks peninsula Opening Run 22 Canterbury Motorcycle Trial Day 22 E. Bay of Plenty Mangakino Lake Hop 22 Waikato PV-P80Rally 25 North Otago Motorcycle Run 26 Ashburton Midweek Run 26 Otago Midweek Run 26-28 South Canterbury Mt Cook Run 27 Hawke’s Bay Mix n’ Mingle 28 Central Otago Blossom Rally 28 Manawatu Vintage Rally 29 Auckland Club Run 29 Canterbury Vintage Annual Rally 29 Nelson Gentlemans Drive
OCTOBER
2 Hawke’s Bay 5 E. Bay of Plenty 5 Manawatu 5 Waikato 5/6 Otago 11-13 Canterbury 12 Southland
This column is compiled from the VCCNZ National Calendar of Events, and events as listed in each branch newsletter. It does not contain all branch events – check branch newsletter for up-to-date details of smaller events.
NATIONAL EVENTS 25 –28 October 2024 National Commercial Rally hosted by North Otago Branch
6 Beaded Wheels
Wednesday Run Te Aroha Cruise Swap Meet Motorcycle Run Dunvegan Rally Swap meet PV & PW Rally
12/13 Manawatu 13 Central Otago 13 Nelson 13 Wairarapa 14-18 C. Hawke’s Bay 16 Waikato 18-19 Marlborough 18-21 Hawke’s Bay 19 Far North 19 North Otago 19-20 Auckland 19-20 Banks Peninsula 19-20 Canterbury 20 North Shore 20 Wanganui 25-28 North Otago 26 Wanganui 26-28 Manawatu 31 Central Otago 31 Otago
NOVEMBER
1-3 Northland 2 Otago 2 Southland 2 Waikato 2 Wellington 3 Bay of Plenty 3 Canterbury 3 Wellington 6 Wanganui 9 Canterbury 9 Southland 9 Waikato
Motorcycle Rally Weekend Run Gymkhana Skills Rex Porter Rally Taranaki Tour Wednesday Wander Biennial Rally Blenheim Safari Run Dunny Run Teapot Rally with Waimate Hunua Spring Tour Gebbies Pass/Little River Hillclimbs Girder Fork MC Rally Bus trip to Hamilton Gardens Sunday Run National Commercial Rally City Centennial Parade Combined Branches Camp Out Thursday Muster Midweek Run Far North Tour Taieri Tour Commercial Rally Veteran Rally Annual Rally & Dinner Car Boot Sale & Restoration Award All British Day Waterfront Car Display Night Trial Veteran/Vintage Games Arrowtown Motorcycle Rally Veteran & 2 Wheel Brake Rally
While Beaded Wheels makes every attempt to check the accuracy of the dates published in this column we advise readers to confirm all dates with the individual branch concerned.
A valid Vehicle ID card (VIC) is required for any vehicle entered in a National VCC event. Visit www.vcc.org.nz for more information on how to obtain a VIC for your vehicle. 25 –27 January 2025 National Motorcycle Rally hosted by Manawatu Branch
5-7 February 2025 National Veteran Rally hosted by Marlborough Branch
15-21 March 2026 Vero International Festival of Motoring
MAILBAG Beaded Wheels reserves the right to publish, edit or refuse publication of any item s ubmitted as comment. The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily express the policy or views of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) or the publishers. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.
s Trevor Stanley-Joblin's photo from 1972. See Looking Back for vehicle details.
VEHICLE SPEED
I was disappointed to read in Beaded wheels 388 page 31, your correspondent suggesting it is not acceptable for entrants on our events to travel at 35mph on long straight tar sealed roads. Many of our club’s VCC eligible vehicles are incapable of travelling even at 35 mph, much less at an even higher speed. I assume your correspondent would ban such historic vehicles from our events, even assuming the drivers are making their best efforts to allow faster vehicles to safely overtake? Perhaps a little more tolerance of other members’ choices of vehicles is called for in case we drive them out of our Club by bemoaning the capabilities of their preferences in motoring, a club which was after all, founded to cater for exactly those vehicles. David Oakley Member Ashburton
A START IN RACING
In 1960, recently returned from service in Malaysia and with a red 1958 Swallow Doretti purchased in Singapore, I decided to try my hand at motor racing. Based at RNZAF Wigram, I looked around for a place to start and learned about the Saltwater Creek raceway in Timaru.
continued. I made my way to the control table and enquired about the likelihood of having a try. “Did I hold a current driver’s licence? Was the car registered and warranted? Did I have a helmet?” Yes, yes and no... “See if you can find a helmet and hang around, we might be able to do something. Register here and give us five pounds.” I parked in a space in the paddock, told the crew of a nearby competitor what might be happening and was offered the loan of an old and battered helmet a size too small. A nod from the starter’s table and I sauntered over, not feeling too hopeful. “When this race finishes we’ll send you off to do four laps to see how you go.” Things eventually went quiet and as directed I slid into the Doretti, squashed the helmet on and puttered to the start. In
that I would be in the next race, having been given a handicap. In the event, it was substantial. I was to be hare to their hounds. At flag-fall I was off again wedged in and no more sure of myself than at my first try. This four-lap race unwound and as I entered the final short straight I was still leading only to be overtaken at the last moment by a huge car which spat dirt and stones from its knobbled tyres all over my precious mount. Darn. Thank you but enough for the day. I left personal details at the starter’s table and asked if I could apply for a racing permit or whatever might be required (utter cheek, but why not?) and drove back to Base. Several weeks later I received in the mail a cheque for 32/6d, an unexpected reward for coming second. I also in short order arranged to get NZCC FIA Racing Licence #440 which I carried
“ When this race finishes we’ll send you off to do four laps to see how you go.”
On a day when there was racing I drove down and entered the airfield just as an ambulance was leaving, carrying, I later learned, Les Moore, Ronnie Moore’s father, gravely injured from inverting his RA while racing a little while earlier.
place of a number I had found some masking tape and made a large X on both doors. The flag fell and off I went, revving to the limit, searching for the next bend. Absent seat belts back then I braced myself against the door and transmission tunnel by spread knees. After the four laps I was flagged in and again told to hang around.
To my surprise, racing
Shortly after that I was told
folded into my road licence, impressing no-one least of all police who caught me speeding. Further notes: By coincidence I was part of another group on the ship which took Ronnie Moore to UK in 1951 to start his remarkable speedway career, along with Peter Moore, Peter Clark and Trevor Redman. What an entertaining mob they were...
Remniscence prompted by Don Ammon’s letter in Beaded Wheels 388. Clive Shaw Member South Canterbury chamshaw@xtra.co.nz
LOOKING BACK
I took the above photo in about 1972 while working for Jeff Cockram at Auto Sales in Linwood, East Christchurch. I was asked to gather some veteran and vintage cars to promote the upcoming International VCC Rally, based at the Addington Raceway. The photo shows, from memory, left to right, Keith Retalick’s 1927 Overland 4, Noel Beecroft’s 1926 Chrysler tourer, 1929 Chrysler 65, owned by Jeff and Dianne Cockram, and my own 1929 Plymouth 4. Over the back we have 1907 Cadillac owned by the Cockram family, Bernie Kiesanowski’s 1930 Chevrolet (Bernie’s father had purchased it new). Next are three Chevrolets. The far right one was owned by Peter Tyson who travelled all over New Zealand over many decades, to participate in Vintage Car Club events, driving from Christchurch. In the front row we have Bob Scott’s 1913 Métallurgique (now in the Nelson Museum). Finally, Sam Whittakerʼs 1928 (?) Chrysler roadster. Jeff and I are the only surviving members of the VCC in this historic photo. We were asked to display the 1907 Cadillac at Canterbury Court, the only venue in Christchurch big enough to have a large show of any type. Jeff gave me instructions on how to start the car and drive it. This
Beaded Wheels 7
MAILBAG
was on a Friday evening with much traffic, (for the time). It was the first and only time that I have driven a veteran car. It is an experience I will never forget! Note the early Datsun Agency sign above the showroom. Trevor Stanley-Joblin Member Canterbury
MOTORCYCLE LIGHT ISSUES
I understand that according to law it is not necessary for motorcycles over the age of 40 years to always be ridden with the headlight on*. Quite sensible I suppose considering that electrical systems of elderly bikes were probably unable to keep the battery permanently charged. I am a firm believer in the “see and be seen” attitude and I just love riding my 1956 Douglas Dragonfly with the lights on — apart from the “show off” mode. Unfortunately even though the bike has been converted from 6 to 12 volts and the polarity changed to negative earth the lighting system draws three amps or more which is too much for the generator. I have imported at great expense from England a 12 volt LED bulb which performs brilliantly and uses a very negligible amount of amps. I now feel quite proud. Sadly the warrant of fitness inspector knocked me back and refused to give me a WoF as the LED bulb has a different “flare pattern”. I think that was the term that he used. I explained that I never ride my motorbike in the dark so flare pattern was quite immaterial. I changed the bulb for an incandescent one which pleased the WoF
75th anniversary of the Jaguar Mark VII has enthusiasts gearing up for a get-together.
8 Beaded Wheels
man, only to change back to the LED bulb when I arrived back home. I am now breaking the law for my safety. Perhaps we can lobby government for a slight modification to the “no headlights” legislative. David Mayhew
*ED NOTE: Motorcycles and mopeds manufactured after 1 January 1980 are required to have headlights on when they are on the road. 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JAGUAR MARK VII
I am hoping readers can help with stories and photographs of the 1950s Jaguar flagship saloons; the Mark VII, VIIM, VIII and IX cars. The Mark VII when introduced in late 1950 was an advanced sports saloon with the new twin-cam XK six-cylinder engine. Along with the XK120 sports car (using the same engine and adapted chassis from the Mark VII) and the 1950s Le Mans wins, the Mark VII gave Jaguar a new global profile. Plans are already underway for 75th anniversary gatherings in late 2025, including a history book of the cars in New Zealand. It is estimated about 1,000 cars were imported by the various dealers over the years. Details of surviving cars are now sought (including chassis numbers) and stories and photographs of the various models, especially when they were new. Any assistance is much appreciated. Please contact me for further information. Richard Waugh St Martins, Christchurch richard.waugh.rev@gmail.com
Stephen Birkhead is looking for information on his Harley-Davidson.
HARLEY INFORMATION
I own a 1925 FE Harley-Davidson which I have been getting back to running order over the past 10 years. The project has greatly tested my levels of perseverance and tenacity. Reading Beaded Wheels suggests that that is the way with old machinery, particularly if you do not have any mechanical training. I recently shipped the bike down to The Classic Workshop to get Joe Grose to sort out why it is not running well – magneto, air leaks, carburettor? Two reasons for writing: is it possible to find out from VCC how many Harley-Davidson J or F motorcycles there are registered with the organisation? It would be good to start a sub-group to share knowledge and information about these bikes. Over time I have got to know a good few, but it is mostly word of mouth, contacts of contacts, who knows who. I only found out about Joe recently
through Bob Brookland, who was introduced to me by Steve Raffills who was referred to me by Pete Thompson. All over a 10-year period which has often been frustrating as all are great guys happy to share knowledge. My motorcycle was sold new in New Zealand in 1925 and I am the third owner. I have done as much research as I can on the first owner including talking to the family. However, there are some discrepancies in the information. Was the Harley owned by a Wong Kan (a Chinese fossicker) or by Jack Mitchell, the owner of the farm that Wong lived on? Similar pictures were taken on the Mitchell farm, published a few years apart. Do any readers of Beaded Wheels have any possible information? I would be most grateful for any assistance to find out more about this Harley-Davidson. Stephen Birkhead steveb@intarch.co.nz
▼ Newspaper of the day caption reads: Well-known character on the West Coast, South Island. A Chinese resident of Cronadun, near Reefton, who has been much in the public eye since his recent purchase of a motorcycle. – J. Wills.
David Broadhead shares his own repurposed parts project after reading about Ray Betteridge’s repurposed Model A motor (see Beaded Wheels 388)
TIMELINES
Hill climbing in a New Zealand owned Bugatti Type 35. Photo John McDonald
1904/
ENGINEERED FOR ESPRESSO Words and photos David Broadhead Years ago I bought a pair of new, old stock (NOS) mufflers for a modern Triumph motorcycle, to go on an old Honda. Those of you that have younger generations involved with motorcycles will know that the first things that “the youth of today” do upon purchasing a new-to-them bike is to fit aftermarket mufflers and tail tidies and I guess that this was the origin of this lovely pair; still in their original factory box. Anyway, they were not used on the Honda project and attempts to sell them proved fruitless, but their shininess had a certain appeal which got me wondering whether they could be “repurposed”.
cleaned up really nicely. Mates at my local men’s shed assisted with the fixtures and fittings.
I soon found a second-hand glass coffee table top then it was just a case of bringing it all together. I can’t remember whether my conception stage happened during a moment of insomnia or not.
Some may lament that the parts have not been used for their intended purpose but I have observed lots of spares departments filled to the gunnels and not many restorations taking place so I think the repurposing argument is easily justified.
My local vintage club spares department obliged with the other major components – a lovely old set of pistons (79mm bore for those that would like to hazard a guess as to their original use) and conrods which
The first time my uber critical son saw it he immediately claimed that it was not level and poured water in the centre to prove his point. It has since been fine-tuned with the help of the special device which now sits permanently in the centre of the table to pre-empt any future arguments. To continue the mechanical theme it had to have coasters adorned with the Panther Owners Club logo. Did somebody mention the famous Panther motorcycle from Cleckheaton in Yorkshire?
Anybody else got some tool art ideas they’d like to share? Or some Panther parts; I’m still looking for a HWT tank to adapt to fit my 1938 M95.
120 YEARS AGO
VETERAN VEHICLES
Four months after their meeting Charles Rolls and Henry Royce were preparing four models for December’s Paris Salon Motor Show. At £395 the 39mph, 1.8 litre, twin cylinder 10hp was their entry model. For £500 customers could have the three litre, threecylinder, 15hp version although, as the engine wasn’t ready, only the chassis was displayed. A 20hp, 4.1 litre, four cylinder model costing £650 proved a handy racing car in 1905 while the largest, the six cylinder six litre, 30hp model was the model Claude Johnson wanted.
1924/
100 YEARS AGO
VINTAGE VEHICLES
One of the most beautiful cars ever to grace the motor racing circuits, the Bugatti Type 35’s first outing was the 1924 August French GP, only bad tyres fitted to its novel alloy wheels, let it down. With a two litre straight eight featuring 24 valves and single overhead camshaft, the Type 35 was powerful enough, light enough, agile and streamlined enough to ensure not a single horsepower was wasted, enabling it to beat more powerful cars. Over the next few years, the Type 35 won over 1,000 races, winning the Targa Florio five times from 1925 to 1929.
1949/
75 YEARS AGO
PW VEHICLES
For the 1949 year Ford released its evergreen best seller, the Ford Pick-Up known as the Bonus-Built. Available in three sizes; F1 half ton, F2 quarter ton and F3 one ton. In 1953 they would be given three numbers – F-100, F-250 and F-350. From the outset the F1 sold like hot cakes. By 1952 628,318 had been sold. Buyers were attracted by its great looks and the wider, taller “million-dollar cab” giving it a truck-like feel.
1974/
50 YEARS AGO
P60 VEHICLES
Was the 1974 CX the last “real Citroen?” The last of the big, advanced Citroens which dated back to 1934? Enthusiasts claim it was and the company’s individuality was lost when Peugeot took over in 1976. Tried and true then ruled. Although the CX adopted a transverse engine layout, it retained the hydro pneumatic self levelling suspension from the DS and achieved a sensuous look with its 0.36 drag coefficient. Oddly, the CX retained the non-self-cancelling indicators system.
1994/
30 YEARS AGO
P80 VEHICLES
Ferdinand Porsche’s grandson Ferdinand Piech, now firmly in control of VW-Audi, oversaw the development of the lightweight aluminium monocoque used for the first time in a mass produced car, the new 4.2litre 155mph, (249km/h) Audi A8. First seen at Geneva in March 1994, the A8 was also available as a 142mph, 172bhp, 2.8Litre V6.
Developments in the motoring world this month in history. Compiled by Graeme Rice QSM
Beaded Wheels 9
Ian Goldingham provides a guide for readers interested in using internet resources to uncover their car’s history
UNLOCKING YOUR CAR’S PAST Words and photos Ian Goldingham
As discussed in the last issue, if successful, you are hopefully armed with your vehicle’s vital statistics, either from the National Library and or what’s left of your registration papers (commonly known as ownership papers). Now it’s possible to utilise two other New Zealand on-line resources that may advance your chances of finding more about the people who may have owned your vehicle. If you know the locality that your car was from, then do a search using Papers Past https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/ using the family name and/or the vehicle’s make. This digital resource now covers nearly all New Zealand newspapers from 1830 to the end of 1950. By targeting your search to the papers of the specific provincial area, these may well tell you what your previous owner was up to and what sort of a driver they were, especially when it involved an appearance in court. At the very least you may find out more about the social standing of the owner, as against their vehicle. You can also find out a lot about the local sales agent for your car’s make and see the local classifieds to see if you can spot your car being sold on the second-hand market. The other resource is Archway https://archway.archives.govt. nz/ which is the government archive records and has most of the probate records which will perhaps help you find out who and where the next of kin were, and may still be. This line of research is vital if you are serious about locating information about former owners that will help confirm your car’s provenance.
s The sad remains of 5438H’s registration paper are a typical example.
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s The Sunbeam’s entry in the “Registration of Motor Vehicles in New Zealand in Postal Districts” - See Beaded Wheels 388 for more information.
For those of us with a genealogical bent, this information can lead to being able to track the family down and seek additional information about the person or even a photograph or two. So as a practical demonstration of how this all works together, I can offer the results of an earlier search for a certain Sunbeam 16.9hp. Like many of us, Stan Smith only ever had partial registration papers ie they only went back to 1932. It was common practice with second hand motor dealers in those days to “lose” the original papers and register the car with new ones so its history was obscured”. In Stan’s case with his 16.9hp #5438H, the lack of earlier information was due to the car being a private second hand import. Although the registration papers started in 1932, we were able via the “Registration of Motor Vehicles in N.Z. arranged in Postal Districts,” to establish cross check and confirm that 1932 was the time of importation, its first New Zealand plate was 72394 and that Mr D D Grant of Fairlie was the owner.
Back tracking the owners on the registration papers was always going to be difficult. However, Fairlie is a rural community, so there’s a better chance to find that particular family in a smaller group. Going to Papers Past, I was able to focus on the Canterbury and Otago papers (1927–1937) and found the Grants were a well known local family of farm station owners. However, it soon became clear that I had to draft Mr D D Grant out from his various cousins. Firstly I needed to establish exactly what were his specific christian names. To do that, I checked on my New Zealand Society of Genealogists CD and that showed only one match and that was for a Donald Duncan. I then went to Archway and fed that specific name intro their database, which returned several hits which showed Donald on several passenger lists including the trip back to New Zealand aboard the RMS Rangatiki in 1932. Donald had returned to New Zealand post WWII, and was a storekeeper in Hawarden when he died aged 66 on 28 September 1965. Donald’s probate documents are held in the National Archives (Christchurch) which are free to view or for the princely sum of $50 I could be posted a copy. Fortunately, there’s more than one way to skin a cat and instead I went to the Church of the LatterDay Saints “Family Search” website https://www.familysearch. org. Here I found many of the same records that were available at Archway, but in an international context. Even better, I could download a virtual scan of Donald’s will for free. While I was online, I also did a cemetery search using “Find a Grave” which showed that he and his wife were buried at Fairlie. This is quite often a worthwhile technique especially as there is
often a transcription or at best a photo of the headstone. If you are really lucky there will the names of the deceased’s children or next of kin. Now armed with more precise information from the scanned probate papers, I went back to Papers Past and in the Christchurch Press found Donald’s obituary that filled out the family relationships. He had three daughters, two of whom were married and living in New Zealand and a third still living, back in Scotland. Of course, even this information was 60 years old and inevitably it had to be treated delicately. So, off I went again, this time looking for Grace Anne Bray nee Grant, Gertrude Ishbel Fraser nee Grant and Donella Grant. With the help of everyday internet sources, like Google and White pages. I did manage to track down Grace and from her, the other descendants of D D Grant. Grace, it turned out had been a keen genealogist and had already written up the family tree. Via that missive, her daughter Janet and son Donald, were able to confirm that the car had come out from the UK, and was used for the next five years of rural service, driving Grace to primary school and running into Fairlie for shopping and supplies. They sold the Sunbeam just before going back to Scotland in 1937 to someone in Timaru. Speaking to the extended Grant family both here and in Scotland, they have all been extremely helpful with locating additional information which was full of personal observations. Unfortunately, despite recovering several family photo albums, not a single shot of the car in its heyday has been found. I used almost exactly the same search techniques on the next two owners who are on the registration papers. They were Mr Arthur Dale of Albury and Ian James Agie whose family had a farm at Arowhenua, Temuka. Both these gentlemen were deceased and hadn’t had children, so there were no living relatives with memories to chase. But there was enough in the local community publications to find out about their lives and build a reasonable idea of their character and interests. By the time I got to the mid 1960s Papers Past was of no help and I was having to rely on the digital versions of Beaded Wheels magazines. This at least gave me names associated with the Sunbeam and in some cases, I was lucky to still find them alive and kicking. Even better sometimes they were only too willing to tell me all about their experiences with that particular car.
PS: So far, I have logged over 200 Sunbeam Talbot Darracq (STD) vehicles extracted from the “Registration of Motor Vehicles in N.Z. in Postal Districts” journals. The interesting element seems to be right at the start of the exercise in Sept – Dec 1924. The dealers seem to have entered every car that they had sold and was still known to be roadworthy. This includes cars that are clearly veterans by our standards. Hence, we get what is in effect a census of all STD cars on the road at that time.
IAN GOLDINGHAM
s Sunbeam 16.9hp #5438H driven by Mr James Agie in Timaru 1965.
I joined the newly formed VCC North Shore Branch in 1972 with my 1931 Austin 7. My career in the Television industry saw a transfer to Canterbury Branch before returning to North Shore and the formation of Waitemata Branch. Firmly an Anglophile, I have restored several Singer sports cars, as well as 1927 Lea Francis Sports. I have been actively filming VCCNZ events since the early 1970s, and written a number of historical articles for magazines both here and overseas. I have also been the STDNZ Register’s archivist since 1988.
Beaded Wheels 11
HIN BE
Good fun! 1950 Healey Elliott saloon. Powering out of hairpin at Chelsea Walsh hillclimb, Auckland, 11 November 2001.
D THE WH EE L
1950 HEALEY ELLIOT Previously owned by the late Gordon Vogtherr
Words and photos Scott Thomson
Back in the summer of 2001 pump-side pundits offered various guesses at a new kid on the block. What is that? Some sort of Jaguar? A Porsche? Looks like an Italian job! Outside guesses were Sunbeam-Talbot, Jowett and a customized and lowered Morris Minor…. It was a 1950 Healey. Not an Austin-Healey – they came later and in vastly greater numbers.
WHO WAS HEALEY? Donald Healey was born in Cornwall — way to the west of England. As an 11 year old he accompanied his father, a grocer and builder, on the two-day drive to collect the new family Humber from London. At age 15, Donald was apprenticed to the Sopwith Aviation Company at Brooklands. These formative events decided his life direction and the type of cars he was to put his name on. He was already an experienced pilot when he joined the Royal Flying Corps, age 17, only to be shot down and injured by ‘friendly fire’ in France. Invalided out, Donald did RAF inspection work, administrative experience that served him well when he opened his own garage workshop in 1919, specialising in sporting cars. Through the 1930s Donald Healey was Britain’s most successful rally driver, winning the Monte Carlo in 1931. Joining Triumph, he moved up to General Manager before going to Humber on armored car development. This was the man who planned to launch a tough, fast, car in dreary postwar Britain. Healey had two invaluable associates. ‘Sammy’ Sampietro came from Alfa Romeo and Maserati via the Brooklands firm of Thomson & Taylors. He had definite ideas on independent suspension and modified the VW/Porsche trailing arm layout. Ben Bowden was a stylist who had worked for Farina in Italy. Ben’s first sketch of the Healey car began with a full-size tracing on his home’s wallpaper.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE?
Onepu Hillclimb, 28 October 2001.
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A local contact had a machine for bending up to eight foot steel into a box chassis. That decided the wheelbase. Another local firm called Elliot’s had once built a car body, though their main work was with shop fronts. For an engine, Healey did a deal with Riley. They had introduced a 2.4 litre four just before the war. Some units were available and Riley would go on to use
1946 Healey Westland. Donald Healey, centre.
the typically robust, high mounted twin cam/pushrod design in their post war RM and Pathfinder models. I am just old enough to remember the Healey Elliot being billed as Britain’s fastest car and the world’s fastest saloon. The motoring press took one to Italy late in 1946 and recorded 104.65 mph with a standing quarter in 17.8 secs. Fifty years later I got to know Gordon Vogtherr and his Healey was still a sensational looking car.
BEHIND THE WHEEL The big door opens and closes with that coach-built click. I slip into the bucket seat, swinging my legs over the rubber coated running boards, cut deep into the prominent front mudguards. Working from the left there are amps and fuel gauges in a high class wooden instrument panel. Next comes a big speedo with matching rev-counter under the driver’s eye. Between them sit the ignition key with separate starter button and warning lights for fuel and charge levels. Temperature and oil pressure gauges are to the right. There is also a small clock. Finally there are two banks of switches, the top ones for lights and wipers – not too accessible with the steering wheel in the way. Below are the electric fan, fuel pump off/on, and the choke. All these controls are needed. The engine does tend to overheat in heavy traffic or waiting on the starting grid, but the fan is a heavy drain on the battery. If the engine runs roughly on idle the choke is useful for pushing in a solid shot of fuel – another starting line check. Modern (91) fuel vaporised easily. These engines have been known to light-up! (The front carb is over the generator.) In case of fire, switch off the fuel and rev the engine hard. The hand brake is well left beyond the transmission tunnel – effective, but a long reach. Gear change is normal H pattern with reverse back towards the driver. I located it by trial and error under the eyes of Healey
Tight fit!
Exercising the beast!
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Modern (91) fuel vaporised easily. These engines have been known to light-up! … In case of fire, switch off the fuel and rev the engine hard.
Gordon Vogtherr at the wheel.
Streamline. Note the mirrors - I was always knocking in to these.
admirers while trying to turn, with the next hill climb car seconds away. Yes! Gordon suggested we do some semi-serious motoring together which took in the Chelsea Hill Climb and the South Island Pirelli tour. This is a high performance car that needs to be flown. It is a nice tractable car to potter along with or make a dignified low revs grand arrival, but not a key-and forget-shopping convenience.
OFF WE GO From rest, a gentle foot on the clutch was needed for a few metres to avoid judder. Steering was heavy at low speeds and quite heavy in tight slow corners. At speeds it was beautifully finger light and direct. The Healey more than held its own in traffic, and it still would. Gordon was insistent that corners should be entered early with a steady line held. He claimed that advisory speed signs in kilometers represented Healey capability in miles per hour. The Healey sits low on 15 inch wheels. I was not so assertive, but certainly felt no need to lift from the legal 100 for corners designated 80km. I found it best to make gear changes slow and deliberate. There is no synchromesh into low. Gordon said he had finally established – after 50,000 miles in the car – that the smoothest change down to second was to rev right up to 4,000 revs. At Chelsea I felt uncertain of sorting this change. The Boss was cutting down his times to the 38 second range. After a practice 43 seconds I decided to stay in third for the famous hairpin and was satisfied with a 40.35 run. His car. Down the years Gordon did a lot of work on the suspension. As restored, the springs proved too stiff, with the shock absorbers doing most of the work. We ran 40 pounds at Chelsea and although we let quite a lot of air out we still bounded over the bumps on the way back to Taupo. Next morning a careful adjustment to 26 pounds improved the ride back to Napier. It was the condition of the State Highway more than the suspension of the Healey that gave us some bumps. This was unwelcome stuff for an aluminium body on an ash frame. When hot there was a low speed grumble, probably from the centre bearing of the torque tube. Between 2,000 and 2,700 rpm there was some harshness under hard acceleration, some possibly from the gearbox. Above that engine speed the car is smooth — a really long legged cruiser. All this with only 104 hp on 6.8:1 compression ratio. In competition, one of the most impressive features was the meaty torque which came in strongly over 2,500 rpm and went right on up to 4,000. The gearing is for 22 mph per 1,000 revs in top.
PERIOD STUFF I remember period features of this car. Some were pleasing, like the sunshine roof. The owner preferred to run with this open and had added a small spoiler attached with Velcro to the front sill. It was surprisingly effective in keeping draughts out of the cabin. The quarterlights had nice little screw adjusters. Time also brought up less pleasing features. Except for the flat glass wind screen, windows are Perspex. Care must be taken not to scratch these. The rear window was a little ‘crazed’ and in certain lights this made reversing difficult. The centre mirror doesn’t show much. There were two large side mirrors which I was for ever brushing into and knocking out of adjustment. As new, the car was designed with two flip/flop self-cancelling traffic
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indicator arms. At Healey speeds these would never have fallen back properly. Fitted just behind the doors at the narrowest part of the wasp-waist styled body, they would never have been easy to see. Gordon fitted modern winkers. The back seats of this ‘saloon’ were really suitable only for children. The Healey Elliot ‘saloon’ is more correctly a Grand Tourer. In fact, it was one of the cars that helped define the GT category. So the back seat is a really good place for luggage at optimum weight distribution. That said there is a very decent boot, low but deep. A prayer-mat would help when searching far into the forward recesses. The boot has no external handle, the lid being released by a cable and knob behind the driver’s seat. Yes, Healey was serious about aerodynamic drag. The tight figure-hugging coachwork came at the cost of engine accessibility. We struggled for ages to remove the generator for repairs.
IN EUROPE Healeys were highly successful when 1940s motorsport was getting going. Touring class wins came in the Tour of Sicily and Mille Miglia. They won the three litre class three times in the Alpine trial with various body styles. As late as 1952 an Elliot saloon was second to Stirling Moss in a works Jaguar at the Silverstone Production Saloon race. Jaguar destroyed Healey. The XK 120 had an extra litre and was priced just under £1,000. Healey Elliot (later Tickford) saloons cost over £600 more and that pushed them two steps further up the purchase tax scale. The little Healey factory built 1,185 cars before linking with Austin. Of these, 101 were Elliots. Maybe only 30 survive. Perhaps half a dozen are in good condition and regular use. Mindful of all this, Gordon Vogtherr had taken his car to the ‘retro’ Classic Marathon. They led the first day and were in the top six when another competitor shunted him off and out. This felt like unfinished business and Gordon was very keen we take the ‘Elliot’ back for the Mille Miglia retrospective in 2003 – if we could land sponsorship and an entry. In the end we decided just to take a family holiday to Italy and see the event drive by. With hindsight, that was probably a better idea. We did much we would have missed if we had been focused on the car. We saw a stark Healey Silverstone – but no Elliots. Some years later, Gordon decided to sell the Healey at a very reasonable price. Nobody in New Zealand seemed interested. Much more is paid for far less worthy or interesting cars. I didn’t have the room and it went to Australia Shirley Vogtherr cried when the Healey went away. I still feel sad.
SCOTT THOMSON As a teenager Scott saw New Zealand motorsport’s boom years. Lap scorer, commentator, and later an accredited journalist to World Rally and Formula One events, in 2002 he was awarded the John L Goddard Trophy by the VCC for his contributions to motoring history. Scott’s writing was a hobby relaxation during 35 years as a Presbyterian parish minister. His first car was an Alvis and his best known is the 1929 Riley Scott and Barbara campaigned in three Targa rallies and elsewhere. Aged 86, he is still driving.
Beaded Wheels 15
WASP WARS
Comparing Vespa’s long-lived model with its would-be successor Words and photos Peter Cooper
From its post-WWII beginnings, Piaggio’s Vespa remains a global iconic brand. Our comparison test features one of the Pontedera company’s most successful models, along with what was supposed to be its successor.
IL CAMPIONE (THE CHAMPION) – 1983 VESPA PX200E Launched in 1977, the Nuovo Linea (New Line) P/PX series replaced what are commonly known as Largeframe models, such as the 150 Sprint and 200 Rally. The range featured an uprated engine with optional oil injection and electric starting, integrated turn indicators, fuel gauge (PX), electronic ignition (E models) and suspension improvements. A large, lockable glovebox on the inside of the legshield was another welcome addition. Available in 125, 150 and 200cc variants – along with an 80cc model for the German market – the P/PX proved itself to be a reliable, rugged machine that quickly gained a lot of fans, both in Italy and around the world. There are still plenty of examples of the range being ridden in this country by Vespa enthusiasts, in both Italian (Piaggio) and Indian (LML) sources. The range was so successful that production finally ended in 2017, when the two-stroke engine could no longer meet EU emissions regulations. LML developed its own four-stroke version,
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some of which can be found in New Zealand, including a model fitted with an automatic gearbox. Our test example, a mostly unrestored, original 1983 PX200E has been in my collection for around a decade. Changes from original include the replacement seat that’s more comfortable for long distance touring than the factory unit, an aftermarket performance exhaust in the OEM pattern and some minor intake changes to match the improved exhaust system. Otherwise, it’s pretty much as it came from Japan, dents, scratches, et al. – Vespas have quite a cult following in the Land of the Rising Sun. Interestingly, I picked up the Vespa at a ‘damaged vehicle’ auction at a very low price, the damage being that two-stroke oil was leaking at the tank and into the main bodywork. At least I’ll never have to worry about chassis rust! This particular PX is equipped with optional oil injection and electric start, base-level black trim, and showing a bit of age. It features the usual four-speed manual gearbox with twist-grip changing, lever for the front brake and foot pedal for the rear stopper. There’s a manual choke and fuel tap located on the main body (thorax?) below the seat, as well as the scooter having a kick start on the right-hand side, should the battery be too low to operate the electric leg. This Vespa is equipped with both the standard centre stand and an aftermarket side stand, the latter being quite convenient when parking the machine. Indicators are operated by a switch on the left-hand side of the handlebar, while horn, lights and starter switches are found on the right. The centrally mounted 120 kph speedometer features
lights for when the lighting is switched on, full beam, low fuel and turn indicators. Oil level is monitored by a sight glass adjacent to the choke and fuel tap. Lifting up the lockable seat provides access to the separate fuel and oil tanks – no more mixing of two-stroke and petrol on this machine. The surprisingly cavernous glovebox can easily hold a couple of one-litre two-stroke oil containers, tools, maps and other items. Starting involves moving the manual fuel tap to either the ‘On’ or ‘Reserve’ position – I tend to use the latter and keep an eye on fuel level using the gauge – and pulling out the manual choke to its full length. With the key switched to the ‘On’ position, pulling in the clutch lever (a safety feature) and pushing the Start button the Vespa’s starter will engage with an almighty clunk and start spinning the engine over. The scooter will usually fire up on the first try. Of course, it’s also possible to use the kick starter to bring the engine to life, needing only a few kicks when cold. Pushing in the choke, once fired, the engine settles into a steady, familiar burble. Adding a bit of throttle, pulling in the clutch lever and twisting the gearchange back into first gear, the Vespa’s ready to go, ease off the clutch and the scooter starts moving forward. Pull in the clutch lever and rotate the gearchange forward to find the other three cogs. The action of both clutch and gearbox are quite smooth and changing the gears up or down is easy. This particular example tends to four-stroke a bit when cold, but quickly warms up to provide what may be described as ‘progressive’ acceleration up to the legal 100 kph open-road speed limit, with a bit in reserve. Being a pretty much untouched engine (the head’s never been off in almost four decades of the scoot’s existence!) the PX is certainly no road rocket. I tend to cruise it at 80-90 kph, especially when I’m touring the country on it. Range on its eight litre fuel tank is around 100-115 kms, depending on speed and terrain. Brakes are 150mm drums at both ends that are pretty effective on this 104 kg machine, while modern profile 3.50x10 tyres make for reasonable handling for what is, in effect, a 1970s design.
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LO SFIDANTE (THE CONTENDER) – 1989 VESPA COSA 200LX While the P/PX series had proven itself to be a runaway success, Piaggio was already looking ahead to what was to be that model’s replacement to take the marque into the 1990s and beyond. Originally dubbed the Vespa R (for Rinnovata, i.e. Renewed), the model was launched in 1988 as the Cosa (Thing) and was available in 125, 150 and 200cc variations. There were two generations of the Cosa, the first being built and sold from 1988-1991 – some sources suggest 1990 as the final year of production, as for some strange reason Piaggio’s records do not necessarily show actual year of assembly – with the second generation going from 1991-93, with leftover models being sold well into the middle of the decade. From my experience, the Cosa II models sold here came from leftover stock. Being a more deluxe model, it featured updates such as a hydraulically-actuated combined braking system (CBS) with a proportioning valve between the 150mm front and rear drum brakes. The drums themselves have extra finning compared to the P/PX-series to help keep them cool.
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Other changes included a new instrument panel with a rev counter and speedometer, as well as lights to show when the lights are switched on, low fuel, low oil, indicators, main beam and low brake fluid level. Instead of a manual fuel tap and choke, the Cosa has these tasks being handled electrically. A sliding indicator switch replaced the earlier rocker unit on the left-hand side of the handlebars, and was joined by both the horn and start buttons. The right-hand side switch gear features a sliding unit to turn on park and headlights and pushbuttons for main beam and the flashing of same. Considering the advertised top speed for the model is 110 kph, I’m not sure how often the latter would get used in our local conditions. ABS plastic replaced steel on a number of panels, including the front mudguard and inner legshield/glovebox, as well as lower body panels under the footboard. Otherwise, the Cosa retained the pressed steel monocoque construction used on Vespas, dating back to the 1946 Vespa original.
Starting is via the aforementioned pushbutton or kick start and the gears are shifted by the familiar left-hand twist grip, operating an improved clutch and cable system. A popular swap for the P/ PX is to use the Cosa clutch assembly, which is considered to be much smoother than on earlier models. There are some detail differences between the two Cosa series, most notably being a Nicasil coated cylinder barrel and an electronic anti-skid system that operated on the front brake only on the Cosa II. No ABS was ever offered. Our test Cosa is a first-generation model dating from 1989. Another Japanese import, it is pretty much original, outside of a decent set of tyres that had been fitted before sale. Apparently, its last owner in Japan was pretty meticulous, judging by its overall condition and all of the adhesive labelling found around the machine. I’ve kept most of them, as it’s part of the Vespa’s history, even if my ability to read Japanese is nil. There was also a service manual – in Japanese – that came with the machine. Unfortunately, I get the impression that said owner was not all that mechanically inclined, as the gearbox sump plug was finger tight and a wire tie was used to keep the oil-injection hose in place, as well as some minor electrical gremlins – mostly pinched magneto wiring – which was probably why the scooter was put on the market. These have been sorted since arriving at my workshop. My story about acquiring the Cosa goes back to my having a bit of boredom during one of our pandemic lockdowns in 2021. Many years ago, I used to import Vespas and retro-style motorbikes and scooters ex-Japan with an old friend who is a licenced
motor vehicle dealer. It was a fun and profitable sideline to our respective business activities at the time. I still have access to the Japanese dealer-only auctions and decided to put in a low-ball bid on this particular machine, just to see how much it would sell for; wouldn’t you know that I actually got the damned thing for less than my maximum bid price? As the pandemic affected international shipping, the Vespa didn’t arrive until just before Christmas. Auckland was in lockdown, so my old buddy offered to pick the scooter up and leave it in his warehouse until the borders opened again in January 2022. He rang me to say that the Cosa was in remarkable condition and thought that I’d scored a bargain. With the new ABS braking rule coming into force in November 2021, I had to apply to NZTA for a brake exemption. With some helpful guidance from the friendly folk at the agency – in my experience, it helps to ask for assistance, rather than go to battle with bureaucracies – plus providing information on the Vespa’s combined braking system and the delay in shipping, my request was granted. I could now move forward with making the scooter road-legal. Next stop was getting a Brake Declaration from a local motorcycle dealer. I utilised the services of Smith’s Motorcycles in Tauranga before taking the Cosa (literally) around the corner to the AA Compliance Centre to go through the compliance/VIN process. Outside of a faulty battery, meaning that I had to rush back from my home in Waihi with a replacement, the Vespa flew through the final stage of becoming road-legal.
Shipping out of of COKER USA monthly
HALF PAGE FOR COKER
0800 900 764
18 Parkwood Place, East Tamaki, Auckland, New Zealand
www.cokertire.co.nz
Beaded Wheels 19
SULLA STRADA (ON THE ROAD) While very similar in design, there are some major differences in how the PX and Cosa ride. Even though the weight of both machines is similar, the 1983 Vespa’s acceleration feels somewhat quicker, with the late-’80s scooter being noticeably smoother. Ride on the later machine feels much softer than the PX, which is likely the result of the differences between the two scooters’ suspension geometry. Having ridden the earlier Vespa around the country on a number of occasions, my conclusion is that the Cosa would be the nicer machine to tour on. Gear changes are much better on the 1989 Vespa, due to the design improvements previously mentioned. Considering how smooth the shifting is on this particular 1983 example, that’s saying a lot. Braking ability on both scooters is pretty much the same, although the hydraulic CBS system on the Cosa does require a bit
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of rider adjustment, especially with very low speed manoeuvres, where one usually uses the just rear brake to maintain stability. The biggest difference is in the perceived seating height between the two Vespas. The newer machine feels like the rider is sitting much higher than the earlier design. Even so, both can be ridden around corners at (relative-for-a-scooter) high speeds quite comfortably.
IL GIUDIZIO (CONCLUSION) Being a major step up from the evergreen P/PX series, the Cosa should have been more successful in the marketplace than it was. Had its styling been closer to the earlier model’s, it may have had a chance. Sadly, the model didn’t inspire buyers and is now merely an interesting footnote in Vespa’s long history.
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THE JOURNEY OF A LITTLE BIT OF TRIM Words and photos Ross Church
This is the story of a classic car, family memories, and a little bit of trim. It’s also the story of the great people in the VCC. I’m sure most of us have similar tales to tell. Some of my earliest memories are from the late ‘50s, riding around in my Mum and Dad’s 1955 Austin A50. It was grey and white, a really cool two-tone example. I always wanted to do one up to remind me of those days. I never did find an A50 that felt right, but a few years ago I came across a 1956 Austin A90 Westminster, which looks the same, but is just a bit bigger, with a six cylinder engine as opposed to the A50s four cylinder. It was in rough condition, and wasn’t two tone, but rather a neutral blue. I acquired it and put it aside for a while. Five years ago we started to do it up, and thought, “we’ll get stuck in and have it done in six weeks”. Yeah right! Four years later, it emerged out of the garage, and was no longer scruffy blue, but rather a delightful two tone yellow and white. I wasn’t wanting to replicate the grey and white exactly, but rather have a similar car with a new lease of life and some spirit. Of course, there will always be something missing. There was. One piece of chrome trim, from the right rear guard. Not the
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sort of thing that you can get from your local parts shop. “Got a piece of trim for the right rear guard of a 1956 Austin A90 Westminster?” Might as well be talking in a foreign language. Then one day, a couple of months ago, I had “Buttercup” parked outside, and a similar car drove past, and then the brake lights came on, and they backed up, to have a look at the yellow and white A90. It was Ewan Duthie, in his green 1955 A90, on his way north for the North Island Club Captain’s Tour. We’d never met before, but had a great chat, and he happened to mention that he had some parts for these cars. Naturally I asked about the right rear trim. He said he thought he had one, and would let me know when he got home to the South Island after the Tour. Ewan got in touch three days after the Tour, with a photo of the piece of trim. Perfect. Now, how to get it from Cromwell to Paraparaumu. Didn’t want to courier it because of the risk of bending and damage, so agreed to work out a pick-up when able. Contacted my mate Rod Corbett, who many
of you will know through the VCC. He travels between Wanaka and Christchurch reasonably regularly. He contacted Ewan, and they arranged for Ewan to give the part to Graham Taylor when they met at a VCC Otago meeting. Rod then collected it from Graham on his way to Wanaka. A few days later, Rod and Ann turned up in Paraparaumu, with said chrome strip, in their Model A, on the way to the VCC Highland Fling meeting in Feilding. The point of the story? That everyone in the Club, whether you know them well, or just meet them, or don’t even get to meet them, seems willing to help out. That little piece of trim had rides in at least four classic cars, and went through several sets of hands, before it got to its destination – the right rear guard of a 1956 Austin A90 in Paraparaumu Beach. Huge thanks to Rod and Ann, and Ewan, and Graham, and anyone else I’m not aware of in the chain, that got the trim from Cromwell to Paraparaumu. Much appreciated. Buttercup complete!
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Beaded Wheels 23
The Vincent entry: L to R: Tim Stelzer, ’48 Rapide, Mark Cooper ’48 Rapide, Rick Hackett ’51 Rapide, Neil Barnard ’54 Comet, Trevor Hackett ’49 Rapide, Chris Hewlett ’50 Comet. Absent: David White ’47 Rapide. Photo Beate Stelzer
RALLY SNIPPETS
VINCENTS AT THE NORTHLAND MOTORCYCLE RALLY Beaded Wheels Cap Winner Words Neil “Barny” Barnard
Way back in the late 1960s and early 1970s there was an annual Auckland/Whangarei Vintage Motorcycle Rally. These rallies normally started at the halfway point in Wellsford. One year would be from Wellsford to Whangarei, and the following year Wellsford to Auckland. While a trailer was available to transport my bike to the start, I chose to ride my little 1914 225cc “Baby” belt drive 2 stroke Triumph. Alternatively, I would ride my 1954 Vincent Comet, but this bike was too young at the time to qualify as a competitor, so I rode purely as a “guest”. This year Aucklanders Trevor and Rick Hackett were planning on riding their two Vincent Rapides to the rally. As I live in Whakatane, I would need an extra day to ride up to meet them in Auckland, adding an additional 300 odd kms each way to the ride. Surely not a problem on my faithful servant, the Vincent Comet. I left home under threatening skies with light drizzle falling. All the wet weather gear on. No sweat. As per the old motorcyclists’ code: “Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.” My journey north involved a detour through the Old Coach Road to Paengaroa due to a truck crane rescue blocking SH2. It turned out to be a pleasant diversion. North of Paeroa weather improved for my arrival in Auckland. The following morning the front tyre on my Comet appeared soft. A check showed it down below 10psi. Pumped it up to 40psi and had a coffee with fingers crossed. No such luck. Tyre was definitely deflating. Bugger! Fortunately, Trevor had a spare 19” tube, ideal to fit inside my 20” Avon front tyre. I always carry a spare rear tube, but in all my years of riding I had never ever had a front tyre puncture. First time for everything! Inspection of the old tube revealed a longitudinal split. It was certainly very fortunate to have found it there and then, and not at the side of the road. We headed north up SH16 towards Helensville and back onto the main SH1 at Wellsford. Because of the prolonged closure of the SH1 over the Brynderwyns, we elected to take the inland Paparoa The Vincent Trio. 3 bikes, 3 riders, 5 cylinders. Photo Neil Barnard
Trevor, experienced tyre man, praying for success. Photo Neil Barnard
24 Beaded Wheels
Oakleigh Road detour up through Moewhare and back onto SH1 at Oakleigh. A pleasant ride without too much traffic and the road was in good condition due to recent maintenance. The organisers must have been very pleased to have received such a large response, with a total of 84 bikes entered. The Northland team made it all happen under the enthusiastic guidance of Peter Lovatt. Rally Day on Saturday dawned with clear and sunny skies with minimum wind. Ideal conditions for a back road blast on old bikes. The rally organisation was, in a word, faultless. Rally instructions were supplied in large bold font and were clear and concise. It is always helpful to include road names regularly in the information to confirm one was “on track”. The rally pack even included a digital pressure gauge, rather appropriate for me. Crossing on the Opua ferry on the way to the lunch stop in Russell provided a leg stretch and rest opportunity and facilities for lunch at the Russell Fire Station. This was ideal, with plenty of space for the large rider numbers. The Vincent marque was very well represented with a total of seven machines. Included was Mark Cooper’s newly and beautifully restored 1948 Rapide, complete with his own designed electric starter. Most of us elected to take the recommended coast road south from Russell. At Oakura the Vincent crew stopped for a photo shoot on the foreshore. The post-rally evening meal was great and well received by all. The Vincents did well at the prizegiving. I received the “Longest distance ridden to the rally” award with a ride of just over 500kms each way. Trevor Hackett was third in the popular Post War category. His slow riding to maintain the designated 40mph average was worthwhile. After the rally Trevor and I planned to carry on up to Cape Reinga with a return south down the west coast via Dargaville. This was cancelled due to a dire weather forecast. A hasty retreat back to Auckland and we just managed to stay ahead of the storm which soon passed through the city. My return journey was initially slowed by a truck fire. But I managed a relatively fine ride home back to the Bay of Plenty, despite the wet roads. Certainly, a most enjoyable rally. Having covered just over 1,000 miles it was interesting that the Vincent Comet tool kit was only taken out once, and that was in order to get the tyre levers for the front inner tube replacement (and that wasn’t a Vincent part!). Not too bad for a 75-year-old rider on a 70-yearold bike.
During the last day of May there was a rumble of vintage cars assembling on the Canterbury Plains. It was early. It was dark. The roundabout in Southbrook was loading like ammunition in a machine gun firing out old cars into an empty section. This was the start of the 2024 Irishman, marking 70 years since the event was first held.
IRISHMAN 2024 Words Donald L Wright. Photos John McDonald, Brodie Williams
Dave Inwood, Colin Hey, John Gregan and the boys were nervous; 224 cars, over 450 enthusiasts, one of the
Observing the exit from the forestry gate there were some very happy humans that no doubt would have
largest high country vintage rallies in the world was about to set foot into the dark hills of North Canterbury. One could feel the anticipation, and sense the hype, a major event was about to happen. The backup brigade took off to open the course, the day was dawning sunny and warming ever so slightly – just perfect. On the road, we had the scarves, hats and coats, a migration of old cars full of enthusiastic participants, that set the scene of an event of epic proportions. The roads were superb, the farmland amazingly dry and traction just splendid. It is a privilege to drive on this magnificent morning through a winding wilderness that offered the true meaning of an Irishman. We eventually landed with lunch at the Hawarden Hall which apart from hearty country food of delight gave an opportunity to socialise and network. The rolling foothills of North Canterbury and the Matariki Forest provided outstanding views over the plains and countryside that is exceptionally well managed. The metal roadway was a credit to the owners and made a delightfully pleasant drive with some stopping to admire the view. Others had to replenish the everdemanding thirst probably caused by tiny dust particles being stuck in the larynx!
retired to their accommodation and a well-earned drop of amber liquid. Daybreak on Saturday was to be ‘the test’ as the Norwester was grumbling. We held it back with a blast from a pumpkin cannon on the banks of the Waimakariri River, this being the official start of this year’s Irishman. As we worked through the Malvern Hills it retaliated with an enormous gale and horizontal rain that would almost stand a Model A on two wheels. Holy cow! I think we really did upset the weather gods. Mesopotamia Station, our destination, came into view and that was the turning point of the storm and our anxiety. Laurie Prouting, the owner and high-country legend was not fazed, and our Irishman participants matched his challenge with determination of true Irishman grit. The Rangitata Gorge was giving us a display of aggression, clearly just the norm, but alas would you believe it – clear skies for our arrival as if we had summitted Everest. To quote Sir Edmond Hillary “We knocked the bastard off!” Laurie’s presentation topped off the vista of grand landscape describing the mountain ranges and the method used to farm this huge Canterbury run. He is a true farmer/pilot of extraordinary talent. Returning to Peel Forest, the Orari River ford was indeed low – that was accomplished in true vintage style. There were a number requiring a little assistance out of the crystal-clear water
Beaded Wheels 25
being disturbed by these old metal, canvas and rubber jalopies containing motivated humans of somewhat ‘mature demeanour’. George Kear’s new format for Saturday evening in the town hall was a delight of food truck and BYO drinks. It certainly rounded off a great day with plenty to talk over. Our presence in Fairlie on Sunday morning was somewhat overpowering where the main street was restricted by participants oblivious that it is a State Highway. Dave Inwood gave the instructions, and – WOW – we were ‘gone burgers’, the whole street was cleared in 15 minutes. Yet again the sun was coming out to another beautiful day driving through the Mackenzie Pass on to Irishman Creek Station where 70 years ago it all began. Bill Hamilton’s workshop was a treat of engineering history and thanks to the
26 Beaded Wheels
Andrew McClintock and Paul Ainsworth.
owners, John and Chris Rietveld, we had a picnic lunch then a tour through the station’s large livestock paddocks. The rally followed very basic tracks often challenging the driver, later surfacing onto the canal road leading back to the State Highway. Another landscape of magnificence. Phil Jelfs had a rock crack the Sunbeam sump and after losing the oil the team repaired this and he was last seen powering onwards and upwards, this time making Fairlie to receive the hard luck prize. Pete’s Patch yet again provided an opportunity to exercise the drivers and their cars with field tests and a social hour of good humour and tall stories. Our National President displayed exceptional ability not unlike Scott Dixon the difference being he was on turf and breathing exhausted Austin Seven fumes. The final drinks, nibbles and presentations in the Fairlie Hall were certainly
well attended. A large thank you to Andy Fox and Michael Williams for their history of Irishman rounding off a rally to be remembered for the participants attitude and ability to adapt and have fun. Again, this adds to the event being a true iconic Irishman. We are grateful to our farmer friends allowing access to their properties, our organisers who have spent hours mapping and planning and to a touch of magic weather tipping off a memorable weekend of vintage motoring. Can we make the 75th? Of course! And in true Irishman style of fun and determination displaying how it was in the 1930s. It has been a huge privilege to have been involved as a so called ‘winner’ of Irishman. I salute our management and backup team as being simply ‘the best’.
Beaded Wheels 27
Brent Woolhouse needed some of assistance out of the gully.
ROSCO TRIAL Oooooh – hold tight John Fowler.
Hosted by West Coast Branch 23 June 2024 Words and photos Zoe Gough
The Rosco Trial held in Reefton is the first trial of the season thanks to the generosity, once again, of Rosco with the excellent venue and interesting and tricky stages. There were 12 cars and 18 drivers who ran on the day coming from Nelson, Blenheim, Hokitika, Greymouth, Westport and Dunedin, with the youngest competitor being Bob Brehaut from Nelson who drove admirably. Sadly, trial stalwart Avon Hyde could not attend this year. It was again an excellent day with lots of camaraderie and support from all involved. The winner of was Griffin Tucker, West Coast.
Bruce Heyward wearing a determined expression as he tackles his first trial. Thanks to John for letting him loose in his car.
First of the day to succumb to the mud.
Have you got a story to share? Here at Beaded Wheels we are always on the lookout for a good article for a future issue. To encourage you to put pen to paper two lucky authors or photographers per issue will win a limited edition Beaded Wheels cap. Email your articles and ideas to: beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz High resolution digital photos are preferred. Please contact our Editor, Kevin Clarkson, if you wish to discuss an idea for an article. Phone 021 0270 6525 or email kevin@vcc.org.nz
Beaded Wheels 28 Beaded Wheels
Our lucky winners of the Beaded Wheels caps for this issue are Neil Barnard and Paul Herron
Frank Robson and a very young me, 1987 Southland Veteran Rally.
s Overland before restoration. ▼ Overland Model 79 T at the 1963 North Otago Easter. Rally.
POLISHING THE BRASS Beaded Wheels Cap Winner Having owned a veteran car for 34 years, been a VCC member for 41 and enjoyed a lifetime of rallies, starting with my parents early involvement in the VCC, it would be fair to say my interest in the pioneering era is very strong. I am your new reporter for veteran vehicle affairs. Previously upon receiving Beaded Wheels Brass Notes would always be the first article read and I have missed it since Diane Ross’ retirement. In my early years of membership I had befriended Frank Robson and Robin Dickson, both owners of early brass Model Ts, and enjoyed Frank reminiscing on the early cars during VCC’s infancy and of vehicles being discovered in the late ‘50s and ‘60s around the Southland area. Both were very knowledgeable in the cars and their history. Later I would have the opportunity to purchase Frank’s 1911 Ford Model T from his family after his death in 1989. I then re-restored it in time for the VCC 50th Anniversary Rally in Christchurch. As most will know, I am heavily involved in organising Robin Dickson’s collection of veteran and vintage cars due for auction in September. While documenting
his 1912 Overland project I was reminded of the late Dick Collis’ Model 79T Overland which resided in the Queenstown Motor Museum. This car came from Mandeville, a small township close to Gore, and was owned by a John Crombie. A few knew of its existence but were told it was not for sale. However, Mr Collis’ pockets were deep enough to secure its ownership. Nevin Gough’s father, Lin, arrived too late and found the Overland already sold. While discussing with John’s brother Robert what his intentions would have been with the car, he was shown a 1914 Buick and a deal secured the Buick in the VCC and Gough history. The Buick is still rallied by Nevin. The Overland was restored by Bruce Greirson of Gore in quick succession of ownership however, based on the photo prior to restoration, looks like a dream find and condition. Dick rallied it on the Easter rally run by the fledgling North Otago Branch in 1963 and Bruce and Eris Grierson drove it on the 1965 Haast International. It spent its last years of Dick’s ownership in the museum at Queenstown until its closure. His cars were then auctioned
POLISHING THE BRASS Paul Herron paulandlynne@xtra.co.nz Ph 027 210 4131
off and I believe, sadly, that the Overland left our shores for a collector in the USA. Interesting also is that the 1924 Buick of Robin Dickson’s also came from the Crombie farm at Mandeville. Dealing with the array of veterans in Robin’s collection has taught me a lot more of other brands than that of the Ford marque. In his collection, luckily already marked in chalk, is a large De Dion chassis frame. With the help of Alan Meridith and Karl Wood, equipped with tape measure and photos, the chassis was identified as a type AX-L model De Dion. Where it was discovered and how it came to be in his American-
based collection is a mystery, considering that it’s a rare model, being of the longer chassis. Alan is confident that it was the De Dion originally purchased by a Dr Young which is covered in Alan’s book of Veteran Motoring in Southland. Although out of my control, I hope Robin’s cars find ownership within New Zealand to keep our history local. If anyone can provide help with veteran movements or interesting veteran history for future articles please contact Paul 027 210 4131 or paulandlynne@xtra.co.nz.
s Bruce and Eris Grierson 1965 Haast International.
I am a car painter by trade and have owned and managed my own paint and panel workshop for 36 years. In that time I have painted or restored many club vehicles. I also take pride in a job well done. My wife Lynne and I enjoy car rallies, especially national events. When I am not busy with other customers restorations, we have multiple Fords awaiting restoration or retirement which ever comes first.
Beaded Wheels 29
1947–1957 N.Z. MOTOR CYCLIST, MAGAZINE There are many boxes with interesting contents at the Archive. Recently I picked up a box labelled NZ Motor Cyclist. It contained 12 copies of wellloved A5 sized magazines, six with their front covers and the rest with none. These were donated to the Archive by the late well-known motorcyclist, Ray Shearman, who has donated many motorcycling items. These magazines were the official publication of the Auto Cycle Union (ACU). The first monthly edition was printed in November 1947 and the final one in 1957. If anyone has a copy of the first edition, could they please call me, thanks. After looking through all of the books I could see it was a quality New Zealand magazine covering all aspects of motorcycling, featuring both overseas and local events. Here are a few of the New Zealand locations that had articles or results of hill climbs, road racing, mini-TT, grass racing, scramble, speedway. Marton, Lumsden, Wanganui, Muriwai, Gisborne, Rangitikei. Templeton, Nelson, Whakatane, Feilding, Patea, Seagrove aerodrome, Wakapuaka Speedway Nelson, Bluff Hill, Kaikoura, North Shore, Cust, Waiheke Island, Moeraki (North Canterbury), Beckenham 75yard speedway in Centaurus
Road, Laingholme Road Hill Climb and many more I have never heard of. There were many technical articles and road tests on various motorcycles, with many pages illustrated with professional drawings. In a 1949 issue, there was an article about a 350cc Matchless ridden by John Dale from Auckland to Wellington. The ride comprised a total of 454.1 miles in 21 hours and used exactly two gallons and 1.7 pints of petrol. It averaged an amazing 205.243 miles per gallon. Yes, there is a catch, he kept his speed between 20-22 mph. These magazines are full of great stories. Two of the editorials caught my eye. In the August 1949 issue, Motor Cycles in the 1956 Olympics. In a news report the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Hon James Disney, who was also the owner of Disney Motors Ltd, the Norton agents, said at the meeting with the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, “Now that Melbourne has been allocated the 1956 Olympic Games, I shall certainly press for the inclusion of Motor Cycle racing, preferably on a course surrounding Albert Park Lake.” The hopeful Christchurch City Council also raised the same question at the 1948 ACU Conference. It was also hopeful that motorcycle racing would be included in the Empire (Commonwealth) Games. Look out Paris. The other editorial was from April 1949, entitled Sunday Racing. The New Brighton Motor Cycle and Car Club were taken to court on a charge that, as a
ARCHIVIST NEWS Don Muller Archivist archivist@ vcc.org.nz Ph 03 385 6850
30 Beaded Wheels
s Front cover of the issue dated April 1 1949.
club, they conducted a business on a Sunday. The case was really about the riders receiving prize money which helped them with their racing expenses. The plain fact was, they were making money on a Sunday, which was not allowed. The Club was given a light fine. The front cover pictured from 1 April 1949 (inside it is dated 23 April) shows an aeroplane which is a Pan American Airlines Constellation L069. it was
taken at Signal Hill Dunedin. Space doesn’t allow the long explanation, but I think a Photoshop ancestor was alive and well back in 1949. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, the NZ Motor Cyclist 1947-57, has a lot of good reading. Check out your local branch library, they may have some copies, or give me a call.
s Taken by L H Drayton who received £1, in a photo competition in September 1949. It shows Evan Norris and his BSA Bantam crossing a river. Tullet Memorial trial.
Our club archive is located at the VCCNZ National Office in Christchurch and is open to visitors on Friday mornings. It contains a wealth of historic material, a lot of which has been digitised. It is well worth a visit or if you have any queries do get in contact with our archivist Don Muller phone 03 385 6850 or archivist@vcc.org.nz.
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FOR SALE 1910 NAPIER TWIN CYLINDER PROJECT. 1 907 Unic Charabanc, older restoration. 1972 Aussie Morris Mini low mileage. 1974 Leyland P76 nice tidy car. Available for viewing in Gore. Ph Graeme 021 231 0060. CARBURETTOR RECONDITIONING including classic and performance makes. 40 plus years trade experience. Free advice. Contact Graeme Tulloch, Tulmac Carburettor Specialists on 027 612 2312 or (Levin) 06 368 2202 COACHWORK F or all your coachwork, woodwork and timber rim steering wheels for your veteran, vintage or commercial vehicles contact Designs N Wood, John Martin, 11 Bell Avenue, Cromwell. Phone/fax 03 445 0598, 021 109 1309 or email martin_jw@xtra.co.nz MEM CENTRAL OTAGO 1928 DESOTO w as going last time looked at $6,000. Ph 021 623 176. 1930 FORD MODEL A TUDOR ( Model 55B). An older restoration. Registration on hold. $27,000 ono. Ph 027 445 3633. MEM OTAGO
Looking for Vehicle Parts? Motors, gearboxes, carbs, panels, wheels, accessories, miscellaneous and more. What do you need for your restoration? Contact Marlborough Branch. we have sheds full of used parts. email: tandhwin@xtra.co.nz 1954 CITROËN L15 for restoration. Rusty mainly floor and sills. Have new sill panels. Running gear good. Original seats, headlining. Good tyres/glass. Paint/chrome average. Last WoF 2011. Rego on hold $900 ono iansarahhowell@gmail.com 027 275 5528 MEM WANGANUI
VETERAN CAR LAMPS and gas generators and metal spinnings, rims, lens and assembly and bulb horn parts. Bring size requirements for above. Rushmore 30cm dia pair of headlamps and matching gas generator (a beauty), motorcycle, 3 pce set. See me at Canterbury Swap Meet 24 October site 180. Ph Ron 03 344 0483. MEM CANTERBURY DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS We can alter or make driveshafts with fabric components to take modern universal joints and yokes, as well as performing dynamic balancing. We also carry a large range of driveshaft components for cars, trucks, industrial and marine. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz VINTAGE CAR REPAIRS
All Classic and Vintage Car restoration. • Panel making • Wooden body repairs, • Bumpers and moulding repair • Competitive hourly rate. Unit 1 11 Penn Place, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch
Phone Grant 341 5100 or 027 223 9474 granttvin@gmail.com VETERAN STUDEBAKER PROJECTS. 1 917 SF4 complete running gear, partly done, some panels/ dismantled. 1916 ED6 running gear dismantled. Major project (5.8 litre engine). 1914 4F engine (number 285118). 1913 SA25 engine (number 11397) turns freely, with radiator and chassis/ front axle. All cheap! Phone 021 0833 4081. Glyn Clements MEM MANAWATU
PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS FOR VETERAN, VINTAGE, CLASSIC & ODDBALL ENGINES. 1984 DAIHATSU DELTA DIESEL VANS (TWO). We can supply piston sets for most makes and Regos on hold but very rusty bodies. One models. All piston sets come complete with rings complete, one dismantled. Plus diff, gearbox, and gudgeons. radiator from third van. One has low mileage We have over 700 listings at competitive prices. motor. $2,000 for everything, all must go. As is, M S COOMBES LTD where is. Ph/txt Jim Madgwick 027 339 8672. 344 ST ASAPH ST, CHRISTCHURCH MEM WAIKATO Ph: 03 366 7463 E: INFO@MSCOOMBES.CO.NZ NGK SPARK PLUGS 18MM: AB-6 (#2910) new PENRITE OILS W e carry a large range from unused boxed set of 9 $99; AB-7 (#3010) used for vintage to modern engines. Gearbox, diff, 30 miles only, boxed set of 6 $30; AB-6 (#2910) set SU dashpot and water pump grease. of 6 used for 500 miles and blasted clean $42. Ph M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, 07 579-9621 or eltonron707@gmail.com MEM BOP Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: PENRITE ENGINE COOLANT info@mscoombes.co.nz A colourless hybrid-organic non glycol based corrosion inhibitor designed specifically for use in Veteran, Edwardian, Vintage and Classic Car cooling systems. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz BALANCING BALANCING BALANCING, We can balance most vintage and single cylinder engines, fans, driveshafts etc. Work is carried out on a modern digital machine. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
VINTAGE TRUNKS made to order or stock sizes. Dust proof and waterproof. Phone Allan 06 844 3959 or 0274 469 331 Napier, acjones760@gmail.com MEM Beaded Wheels 31
TRIUMPH 9 SPECIAL 1932 A very quick hillclimb 1965 VANDEN PLAS PRINCESS 1100 Twin carbs, car. Two seater, Coventry Climax motor. Reg and good tyres, new battery. Recent WoF, Rego WoF. $5,000 ono. Photos available. View car in to 27/9/24. Rare car with history. In very tidy Auckland. Ph 09 483 2871 dick.toni@xtra.co.nz condition. Ph Bill 027 578 4322. MEM MARLBOROUGH MEM BAY OF PLENTY
RARE 1989 FORD SIERRA “COLOGNE“ 2.9 (not 2.8) 5 speed, full electrics, injection, air, windows, stability control. Shed stored last 20 years. Only 12 remain worldwide. Selling as is, open to all offers. Everything original, excellent and working. Phone/ text tommo 027 452 4250. MEM ROTORUA
1972 MGB GT. VERY GOOD CONDITION. W oF & Reg. Haynes repair manual. Mileage 82,934 miles. Workshop records available. Personalised plate 72 MGB. $16,000. Phone 06 858 8930. MEM CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY
WOODEN WHEELS m ade for your metal work. Steam-bent felloes, any shape spokes. Ph Vern Jensen 06 323 3868, 16 Osborne Terrace, Feilding, gransuz16@gmail.com MEM MANAWATU
1925 VAUXHALL 30-98 U nique wide bodied tourer by Griffin in good condition after a 1950s restoration, same family ownership since 1965. Recent engine overhaul new hood, wheels & radiator core. A very capable motor car. Front wind-up windows. Full enclosed hood, FIVA vertificate, VIC $350,000. Ph 021 671 721 MEM CANTERBURY
1960 AUSTIN HEALEY 3000 MK1. Big Healey BT7 1952 MORRIS MINOR CONVERTIBLE. F ully race car built to works specifications. 4-stroke 6 restored body, new upholstery and hood, new cylinder with roll cage. COD classifies it original. tyres and body rubbers. Many receipts. Spare Was built for Targa but recently only circuit track parts 60,485 miles $17,000 ono. Otago. Ph Val days, speed trials or racing. Webers, baffled sump, 027 222 3413, valmax@xtra.co.nz Toyota 5 speed gearbox. Very reliable and all ready to race VCC. Contact for more details 021 684 434. MEM BANKS PENINSULA
1936 AUSTIN 10 CAMBRIDGE. WoF & Reg. Recent rings & bearings. New tyres. New battery. Trailer load of useful spares. $8000 ono. Might trade old motorcycle. Ph 07 823 5712, atepushrods@gmail.com MEM WAIKATO.
ROVER P5B 1972 3.500 cc V8. Auto, power steering. Excellent all round condition. Stunning in Silver Birch with maroon upholstery. Over 13k in receipts for recent work done. Near new tyres and battery. New WoF. All ready to drive and enjoy. $18,000 contact Bob 027 222 6817 MEM WAIRARAPA
MG BGT 1973, c urrent Rego and WoF, 84,000K, and has VCC VIC. Dark blue trim and carpets. Fully reconditioned automatic transmission, reconditioned head with hardened valve seats for unleaded fuel. Inertia seat belts fitted. New water pump and fuel pump. $16.500 Contact John, 029 902 4862. MEM HOROWHENUA
32 Beaded Wheels
1918/19 STUDEBAKER MODEL SH 4 CYL. Restored meticulously by Joe Jaeger, Horowhenua Branch, 1977-80, in North Island 1980 Rally plus others. Daughter’s wedding car. Now not run in 15 years but up on blocks. Offers if interested? Phone Anne 021 680 278
THIS IS A V8 INDUSTRIAL 354 HEMI ENGINE it WIRE-SPOKED MGB WHEELS WITH KNOCKOFFS. does turn over sorry I don’t know much more then Painted aluminium, good condition. $500 for the that. Jess 021 029 01186. MEM TAUPO lot, no splitting. Located in Gore. Contact Starr at 0276103357 or 032086501 during the day or star. mcdougall@gmail.com for more info or viewing. MEM GORE
1920’S STUDEBAKER TIMKEN f ront end bearing set as per photo. Cost $1400 some years ago. $250. Garth Hogan email: gshogan31@gmail.com MEM CENTRAL OTAGO
CORD 1937 MODEL 812 F ull ground up restoration TRACTORS AND COLLECTABLES AUCTION FIRE ENGINES AUCTION 11am Saturday over ten years, now with 1600 miles on the clock. 11am Saturday 24 August, 2024 Photos/Info: 21 September, 2024. Fire Engines and Beautifully finished and drivable. WoF & Reg. www.jwauctions.co.nz John Walker, Auctioneer Collectables. Photos/Info: www,jwauctions.co.nz John Walker, Auctioneer 027 443 2525 POA. Car will be at Canterbury Swap Meet if not 027 443 2525 sold prior. Ph Andy 027 5199642 foxaj@xtra.co.nz MEM CANTERBURY
VINTAGE & CLASSIC QUARTZ halogen bulbs. Replace your existing bulbs without rewiring the headlamp assemblies. Up to 100% brighter than your existing Tungsten bulbs. Will fit TRIUMPH 2500S 1978 This car is in very good most reflectors fitted to Pre & Post war cars condition. 164,000 km. Recent auto rebuild, new and motorbikes. Also available in single universals, driveshaft balance, replaced rear filament 55 watt P22 & BA15 bases for use brake, diff seals. Sound body no rust, repainted in spotlamps and mechanical dip reflectors. prior to my purchase. Interior very good. Rear seat Most bases and configurations available in belts. $12,500. Ph Colin 022 468 7782 colinjoyh@ 6v & 12v. Further info: Norm & Jan Sisson, gmail.com MEM CANTERBURY sole NZ Agent. Phone 027 311 6563, Amuri Motorcycles, 2C Birmingham Drive, Christchurch. Email modelboatsupplies@snap.net.nz
1926 CHEVROLET TOURER SOFT TOP . Been in the family from new. Restored back in late 1970s. Has been off the road for 35 years. During this time it has been garaged. Contact details email davidwjack57@gmail.com cell 021 146 7540.
1986 NISSAN SAFARI GRAND ROAD 4 WD, 3.3 litre engine, 5 speed gearbox, power takeoff winch, seven seater, five door, 1 owner since imported in 1993, rego on hold. Engine needs repairs. Is in excellent condition. Open to offers. Ph Grant 021 296 1126. MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY
1928 AUSTIN 16/6 BURNHAM G ood original condition with new WOF and Rego. Current owner has had for 36 years, always shedded. New battery and retro fitted electric fuel pump. Five newly constructed wheels. No rust, lots of spares. Contact Ross 027 212 2902. MEM MARLBOROUGH
1982 MITSUBISHI STARION GX. 2 .0L non turbo version, 5 speed manual gearbox. Recent repaint and overhauled motor, detailed engine bay, new tyres. Very original interior. Overall very good condition and drives well. WoF & Rego. Asking $20,000 ono. Contact Paul at greads@xtra.co.nz or ph 027 324 0787. MEM CANTERBURY
Beaded Wheels 33
MARKET PLACE
MAGNETO AND COIL WINDING SERVICES Magneto repairs, coil rewinding, work guaranteed. We buy and sell magnetos of all types except aircraft. 728 Waimutu Road, RD2 Marton 4788. Phone Warwick 06 327 3849, 027 281 8066, walandlynn@farmside.co.nz MEM FREE MARKETING OF VETERAN, VINTAGE AND CLASSIC VEHICLES. We can market your vehicle immediately and have great success with most makes. We hold a huge database of prospective customers, endeavouring to match sellers with buyers. If you would like your bank balance considerably enhanced, give us a call. Contact Les at Rushmore Motors 027 2245 045 inc a/h, or rushmoremotors@xtra.co.nz
1928 STUDEBAKER TOURER. $ 25,000. Excellent and reliable vehicle. Reg and WoF on sale. Performs well. Location Lower Hutt. Marketed by Rushmore Motors 027 2245 045 inc a/h.
1929 CHRYSLER 70, Restored to original condition. Have owned for over 30 years, has new tyres. Three owners, Rego on hold, more photos on request. Price by negotiation. For more info contact Graeme 021 962 253, email: gndawson47@ gmail.com MEM NORTHLAND
1926 CHEV SUPERIOR TOURER. $ 24,500. Series V with engine No: 846709 and chassis 2V23031. Well maintained over recent years ensuring top performance, along with a full back to chassis restoration. Purrs along nicely at 50+ mph. Only two families from new. WoF and Rego, full exterior vehicle covers, and trunk included. Engine fully recon. - new gears, crown wheel, crankshaft ground. Marketed by Rushmore Motors 027 2245 045 inc a/h. VINTAGE ENGINE SHORT BLOCKS We can in most cases rebuild your short block using modern shell bearings, new pistons and rebuilt oil pump. Please contact us for more information. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: info@mscoombes.co.nz
1972 VALIANT RANGER 1 Owner. 120,000 miles Absolutely original. Always been garaged, no prangs. Colour Spice. Always been serviced and warranted regularly since new. Selling due to Health. Ph Don McIntyre 020 4182 6646. MEM HOROWHENUA
1934 VAUXHALL ASX COUPÉ. Reduced to $25,000. Fully restored. Syncro gearbox. Spares. Good motor and gearbox. Reg & WoF. Excellent upholstery. Drives very well. Location Richmond, Nelson. Marketed by Rushmore Motors 027 2245 045 inc a/h.
1981 HONDA TACT FULLMARK Original paint, 1983 HONDA MVX250F. Recent restoration upholstery, amazingly low kms survivor. New including professional restoration of engine and tyres/tubes, battery, fuel tap; carb serviced. gearbox. Very good paint, seat, rubber, wheels 50cc two-stroke with CVT. Registered, runs and trim. Starts and runs perfectly. Comes with exceptionally well. Ideal entry-level collectable, Honda MVX250F owner’s and w/shop manuals practical for regular use. $2500 ono. For more info and original toolkit. Some spares. $15,500. Phone/ & pics email pteeboy@hotmail.com, 021 146 4568. text Paul 021 111 7573, pelwellsutton@fastmail.fm MEM AUCKLAND MEM WEST COAST
ROVER P6B, AUTOMATIC. R egistered December 1974. 199,000 kms. In original tidy condition. New tyres. Comes with Haynes workshop manual. Reliable. Current WoF & Rego. Retractable front and back seat belts. $10,000 Contact Graham 027 603 2834. MEM AUCKLAND 34 Beaded Wheels
ONE BRAND NEW TYRE AND TUBE. S ize 880 x 120 $500 firm. Phone Alistair 027 202 5007 or email chevy39@xtra.co.nz MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY
1930 MODEL A TUDOR. $ 39,000. An excellent example of a Model A Tudor. Lovingly cared for all its life. Recent work carried out includes: new set of tyres. New water pump. Gearbox excellent. Motor excellent, run every 2 weeks to keep operational. Extremely well cared for. Always garaged. Flies through for WoF. WoF and Reg. Painted its original colour, Thorn Brown. Marketed by Rushmore Motors 027 2245 045 inc a/h.
MARKET PLACE
VINTAGE AND CLASSIC TYRES Variety of sizes, cross-ply Lester, Excelsior, Universal, Firestone. Radials 19” and 21” American Classic. Limited stocks. Phone Jack 03 352 6672, 0274 322 041 Christchurch. MEM CANTERBURY
BUICK 1910. 2 CYLINDER, MODEL 14B, lots of lovely brass, fun to motor. Best offer over $50,000. Located in Hunterville. Ph 06 322 8263, wiltonmb@xtra.co.nz MEM WANGANUI
TOP/HOOD IRONS MADE AND REPAIRED 15 Main Street, Hunterville. Phone 06 322 8263 Email wiltonmb@xtra.co.nz MEM WANGANUI
1929 DA DODGE DELUXE. V ery original car with two family owners. 81,000 miles of use. Twin spares. Original upholstery in excellent condition. More photos available if required. $28,000. Ph 03 217 8481, Invercargill. MEM SOUTHLAND
FIAT 509A 2-SEATER ROADSTER with dickie seat. Lovely condition. Originally restored for 1972 international rally but sadly never used since. Always garaged and engine regularly turned over. 56,484 miles, no WoF or Rego, 3 spare engines and many spare parts, original handbook. $32,000 ono. Ph 027 662 5934, mountaingoats@outlook.co.nz
BSA B33 1952 T his bike has done 41,500 miles since being restored some years ago. It has been rallied throughout New Zealand and is still in very good condition with the magneto being overhauled two years ago. It has current WoF & Rego. $8,500 ono. Contact Peter 027 491 3387 or paspiller@xtra.co.nz. MEM WAIKATO
1968 WOLSELEY 1300 In very good original condition, recommissioned in 2018. Has been used for a lot of club rallies and events. Asking $10,000 but will consider any serious offer. For more information phone Matt on 027 379 1131 , email: discoveryv8.mc@gmail.com MEM GORE
1936 PACKARD 120B COUPE CONVERTIBLE. N Z new, RH drive. This car was meticulously restored approx 15 years ago and was maintained and frequently rallied by the late Terry O’Leary. Drives well and looks great. Current rego and WoF. For more info contact Sherrie on 021 977 978.
1978 TRIUMPH 2.5 S MANUAL/OVERDRIVE . Everyday classic in good original condition. I’ve owned for 23 years. Current WoF & Rego. 235,000km. $6500. Ph 03 308 9219, Ashburton.
UPDATE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS Please advise National Office of any changes of address or sales/purchases of vehicles. Email admin@vcc.org.nz or post details to VCCNZ, PO Box 2546, Christchurch 8140 1939 BUICK COUPE 248 STRAIGHT 8 MOTOR . The car overall is in excellent condition. High speed diff. Opera seats in rear, good travelling car. $60,000. Ph John Foster 03 615 9066 or jfmenorlue@gmail.com MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY
MEMBERSHIP NUMBER Please quote your membership number in any correspondence or phonecalls with National Office.
Beaded Wheels 35
VETERAN & VINTAGE CAR A
SATURDAY 21 SEPTE
575 Waimumu Road, Gore On account of Susan and the late Robin Dickson Catalogue available closer to the date via Auction we For all vehicle & parts enquiries contact Paul 027 210 LOT 1
1910 Ford Model T Tourabout
LOT 2
1909 Maxwell
LOT 3
1924/25 Oakland & Parts
LOT 4
1922 Ford Model T Coupe
LOT 5
1930 Hudson & Parts
LOT 6
1910 Ford Model T Project
LOT 7
1917 Dodge Project
LOT 8
1918 Ford Model T Roadster (Has later year engine)
LOT 9
1926 Ford Model T Project
LOT 10 1911 Overland Project LOT 11 1912/13 Overland Project LOT 12 1914 Overland Touring LOT 13 1914 Ford Model T Roadster Project
36 Beaded Wheels
Auction conducted by William Todd & Co (201
AUCTION
EMBER
ebsite 0 4131 LOT 14 1911 Ford Model T Touring Project LOT 15 1918 Chevrolet 490 Touring (Have bill of sale) LOT 16 1907 Cadillac Model G Project LOT 17 1924 Buick 4 Touring & Parts (Dead Plates) LOT 18 1909 Reo & Parts LOT 19 1912 Ford Model T Touring Project LOT 20 1911 Ford Model T Touring LOT 21 1922 Ford Model T Coupe
LOT 22 1915 Cadillac Touring LOT 23 1920 Ford Model T Coupe LOT 24 1922 Ford Model T Touring Project LOT 25 1909/10 Ford Model T Project LOT 26 1915 Cadillac Project LOT 27 1902 Rambler & chassis (Dead plates, known history since 1949) In addition we have many surplus VINTAGE AND VETERAN PARTS that will be auctioned after the vehicle lots are completed.
11) Ltd www.williamtoddauctions.co.nz
Beaded Wheels 37
MARKET PLACE
WANTED
I AM WANTING TO PURCHASE a 1978 Triumph 2500 S. Must be in top order and definitely not a project. Ph Bruce Jacob 027 612 7917, bruce73@ xtra.co.nz MEM HOROWHENUA
1917 CADILLAC V8. A type 55 non-detachable head engine or a block suitable for rebuild. Ph Greg Elder 027 431 8058 or email elderlea@ xtra.co.nz MEM GORE MAGAZINES FROM CLASSIC AND SPORTSCAR (UK publishers). Porsche Legends – published 1950 BEDFORD K TRUCK WHEEL RIMS 8 2023, Jaguars Greatest Hits published 2017. Phone STUD. P lease call or txt Aaron 021 085 30341 Dennis 027 207 5886, kennydennis96@gmail.com MEM WAIRARAPA PANTHER M65/75 SWINGING ARM frame only 1956 JAGUAR MK1 p arts required for my or project/parts considered. Cash or trade for HEAD LAMP LENSES OR HEADLAMPS as per restoration. Looking for a good condition 2.4l M60/70 engine parts, rear frame members or the photos. As fitted to a number of circa 1934 engine and (rust free) doors at a reasonable dowtys. Phone 03 732 7060 or email gen4use@ American cars. Wishing to purchase for my price?. I have two engines but both need a rebore. gmail.com MEMBER WEST COAST restoration. Ph 021 262 4009. t_ccarston@ My doors rusty but are recoverable. Looking for hotmail.com cheaper options if possible. In Whangarei. Ph PARTS WANTED 37-38 CHEV COUPE front seat Stephen 027 780 3307. MEM NORTHLAND 39 might fit also a good steel coupe boot lid or a fibreglass one. Ph Paul 022 610 8699. AUSTIN/MORRIS 1300 ENGINE COMPLETE. P h Wayne Jones 021 228 9567, jonesauto@xtra.co.nz ROYAL ENFIELD FRAME, e ither complete or just MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY the front “diamond”, for a 1939 or 1940 250cc model “D” or “SF”. The frame I have has frontal AUSTIN SEVEN CHUMMY SEAT FRAMES. I require damage. I have replacement forks, which are OK. a pair of useable seat frames to complete my Ph John Rapley, 029 902 4862. MEM HOROWHENUA. 1928 Chummy restoration. Ph Wayne 03 467 9804, Dunedin, email: wf.henderson@xtra.co.nz STEERING BOX f or 1932 Ford B4 or V8. Or MEM BANKS PENINSULA rebuildable core. gary.arps@outlook.com Phone 021 256 7395. MEM CANTERBURY BSA L29 SLOPER ROCKER BOX. I need the bare casting with complete non broken flanges. Will TYRE 5.25X21 URGENTLY WANTED . One or look at anything available complete or bare. two if you have them. Ph Trevor 027 252 5402. TRIUMPH JUNIOR (BABY TRIUMPH) 1914–1924 Parts wanted including tank caps as pictured. Phone or TXT John on 027 21 77978, email MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY 1¾" diameter. Ph Tony 03 342 9110 / 027 772 8660. jwwd@xtra.co.nz MEM SOUTHLAND MEM CANTERBURY VETERAN VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE, g oing, CHEV ENGINE & GEARBOX IDENTIFICATION H elp unfinished project or shed of parts, lets get Help! Need to talk to a Chevrolet knowledgeable your unwanted parts off the shelves and on to person who may be able to positively identify projects to make complete bikes. Maybe it’s time what I believe is a 1946 Blue Flame straight to start thinking of letting go? Happy to discuss. six engine and gearbox. I have casting/ engine Ph 027 445 0840 or flyn@xtra.co.nz MEM OTAGO numbers/ and photos. All presently out of the MARK III ZEPHYR GEARBOX, a nd engine or parts vehicle. Hope there is somebody out there who of. Ph Bernie 027 758 7386 MEM ASHBURTON can help. Contact Malcolm Harding 027 432 9853, malcolmh@xtra.co.nz MEM TARANAKI OLD NEW ZEALAND REGISTRATION PLATES to complete my collection. Phone Peter 027 491 KLAXON HORN WANTED (FOR PANTHER) As CHRYSLER BALL / TRUNNION Drive shaft 3/5 5566 or email paseaton7@outlook.com. MEM per photo, complete or parts considered. Also eighth” flange. Length not important – needs BAY OF PLENTY Panther HWT petrol tank – any condition, to to be modified to fit behind ‘38 BW overdrive modify for M95 project. And anything else Panther gearbox. Email tonyperkstarawera@gmail.com HWT. Possible exchange for Burman CP parts or MEM ROTORUA M75 frame, forks and engine parts. Ph David Broadhead 021 324 762 dbroadhe@xtra.co.nz MEM AUCKLAND DIVING BELL STYLE TAIL LIGHT. M ust be complete but doesn’t need to be perfect. Prefer suit LHS. Rotax or similar. Ph Oliver 0274 837 946 MEM BANKS PENINSULA HUDSON STRAIGHT 8 CHASSIS MOTOR a nd running gear wanted for Railton speedster replica. Please Contact John Pothan 021 757 936, John@gseengineering.co.nz
NZETA 502 SCOOTER PARTS Anything and everything considered. Finders fee applies. Lloyd 027 276 9001. MEM NELSON
38 Beaded Wheels
1975 TRIUMPH TC 2.5. I am in urgent need of a power steer rack carrier for my Triumph. Ph 027 209 7426. MEM CANTERBURY
SWAP MEETS & RALLIES
All vehicles entered in National And International Rallies must hold a current VehicIe Identity Card (VIC).
1 7 t h N AT I O N A L
MODEL ARally FORD 23-28 FEBRUARY 2025 Rally based at Copthorne Solway Hotel and Solway Showgrounds, Masterton, Wairarapa. To receive newsletters and make an ‘Early-bird’ registration ($40), contact Martin Rees on email: nimafc.secretary@gmail.com Registration document available August 2024. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
www.modelafordclub.co.nz MASTERTON
Club Captain’s SOUTH ISLAND
TOUR
11, 12 and 13 October 2024 McLeans Island Road, Christchurch Entry $10.00 any or all days Children FREE NO DOGS ALLOWED
Friday 11 April – Friday 18 Apri 2025 TOUR ITINERARY
Closing date for entries 15 March 2025
Friday 11th: Arrive Dunedin
Wednesday 16th: Alexandra to Twizel
Saturday 12th: Dunedin to Gore
Thursday 17th: Twizel to Methven
Sunday 13th: Gore to Te Anau, or Gore to Te Anau via the George Begg Festival at Teretonga Park (as an option) Monday 14th: Te Anau – Tourist attractions and run to Milford for those that wish Tuesday 15th: Te Anau to Alexandra
Friday 18th: Methven to Christchurch (This is registration day for the South Island Easter Rally based in Christchurch) All touring routes will be sealed with alternative gravel sections for those that would like to use them.
For entry form and accommodation details please email
www.canterburybranchvintagecarclub.org.nz
Mark Wilkinson at sicc@vcc.org.nz Beaded Wheels 39
7th N
I AT
A ON
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M M E R C IA L RA
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OAMARU
Ho
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d by
2024
anc N o rth Otag o B r
h
BASED IN
OAMARU
25 – 28 October 2024 Entry Forms available July 2024 Entries Close 27 September 2024 Rally Secretary: Wanda Kent 027 440 1621 Email: commercialrally2024@gmail.com
Early Accommodation Booking Essential
Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Southland Branch Inc. Celebrates 70 years.
Come one, come all to the
SOUTH ISLAND EASTER RALLY 2025
and help us celebrate Pat Cutler and the 50 year anniversary of the park named in his honor.
The programme includes a Saturday morning and afternoon rally followed by a sausage sizzle at the clubrooms.
On Sunday morning a rally then field tests. An evening meal with prize giving at the Hornby Club on Sunday evening. SAVE THE DATES 18, 19 AND 20 APRIL 2025 More information and entry form will be available in October. Enquiries: essexontheroadagain@gmail.com
40 Beaded Wheels
Southland Vintage Car Club 70th Anniversary Rally 8 February 2025 in Invercargill
Email interest to southland@vcc.org.nz
26 YEARS AT MANFEILD
UNDERCOVER
SWAP MEET
Saturday 5 October 2024 • Manfeild Stadium SELLERS $20 | BUYERS $10 | CHILDREN UNDER 12 FREE Public entrance via south st from 8am. Stall holders entrance via Kawakawa Road outer gates will open at 6am and inner stadium gates will open at 7am.
Contact John Ireland 027 449 1271 email: ireland.clan@inspire.net.nz
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
OAMARU • NEW ZEALAND
Coinciding with the Victorian Heritage Weekend
SATURDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2024 A & P Showgrounds Ettrick St • Oamaru
Hot Food and Coffee available • Book a site, get that stuff sitting in the garage you no longer need and let someone else love it! Public Entry from 8am $5 Adult, children under 15 free
Site Holders entry from 7am $15 including 1 free entry
All enquiries to email: swapmeetnovcc@gmail.com or phone Derek Brehaut 021 390 518,
SOUTH CANTERBURY BRANCH
3 DAY TOUR
Friday 22 – Sunday 24 November 2024 This will be a non-competitive tour and open to any VCC Eligible vehicle. Expressions of interest are asked for now and entry forms will be sent to those who respond. Start at South Canterbury Clubrooms, Fri 22 Nov 9am sharp. ENTRY FORM Enquiries to Grant Stewart 027 378 6149 or Alistair Day 027 202 5007 or email chevy39@xtra.co.nz
AVAILABLE EARLY OCTOBER
NELSON
SWAP MEET BAZAAR 8 MARCH 2025
Speedway Grounds – Lansdowne Road, Richmond Site sales and registrations now open online at
www.nelsonvcc.org.nz/book-a-site Email nelson@vcc.org.nz
Food and drink available on site Site and Cars for sale: $20 (Both above include 1 entry) Entry non-site holders $5 Gates open 7am Stall Holders, 8am Public.
WAIKATO WAIKATO VINTAGE VINTAGE
SWAP MEET
KARAPIRO DOMAIN, CAMBRIDGE
Sunday 17 November 2024
Gates open 7am • Public Entry $10 • Children under 12 Free • Sites $20 •
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) The Historic Vehicle Authority of New Zealand
29th VCC National Motorcycle Rally 25 - 27 January 2025
Organised by Waikato Branch of VCC and Waikato Vintage Tractor & Machinery Club
Enquiries Ph Jeremy Brook 021 152 0922, George Gardner 027 301 5711 And for more information visit www.wvvcc.co.nz
Hosted by the Manawatu Branch
Entry Form Available Now! PLEASE CONTACT YOUR BRANCH SECRETARY OR Email the Rally Secretary at vccnatmcrally2025@gmail.com for a copy of the Entry Form ENTRIES CLOSE 31st OCTOBER 2024 N.B. NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THIS DATE
Beaded Wheels 41
TRADE DIRECTORY
MARLBOROUGH MAGNETOS
UPPER CLASSICS NEW ZEALAND
Magnetos Rewound in New Zealand using the best available materials Magneto repair and restoration undertaken
Exchange armatures available
Hard-to-get parts manufactured
Coil Only service for DIY assembly
Magdyno and Maglita units restored
Curiosities investigated
☎ 027 577 8328
FOR THE REPAIR & RESTORATION OF ALL CLASSIC OR VINTAGE CARS & MOTORCYCLES
Contact Paul Radmall at paul@magnetos.co.nz
INSTRUMENT REPAIRS
Hamco
INDUSTRIES
Motorcycle & Car a Wire Wheel Repairs & Restorations
Experienced expert technician Bruce Chaytor ph 021 631 700 Nicolette Prangley 021 166 8374 nap.chaytor@gmail.com 5 Gibbs Place, Kinloch, RD1, Taupo 3377
We Specialise In • Custom Made Spokes • Speedway Wheels Rim and Frame Lining • Wheel Building & Truing • Complete Wheel Restoration
Vintage – Classic – Modern Craig & Debbie Hambling
Phone 06 324 8345
Mobile 027 231 7864 410 Green Road, RD 6, Palmerston North Day or Night
RESTORED CARS MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA
First published in 1973. Most back issues are available. All vehicles featured are restored or in original condition. Events, How To’s and Australian motoring history are a specialty. Subscription Rates
Australia 6 Issues $69 or 12 issues $135 New Zealand 6 Issues AUD$117 or 12 issues AUD$231 Overseas 6 Issues AUD$150 or 12 issues AUD$297 VISA – MASTERCARD AVAILABLE Eddie Ford Publications P/L 29 Lyons St, Newstead Vic 3462, Australia.
PH 61 3 5476 2212 RESTOREDCARSMAGAZINE.COM
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CARBURETTOR SPECIALISTS
Full reconditioning service Carburettor body, re-bushing and shafts supplied. Specialising in Weber, Holley, SU, Stormberg, etc
40 YEARS TRADE EXPERIENCE FREE ADVICE
Repairers and Restorers of Vintage and Classic Instruments Speedo Cables repaired or made new to order 13 Fleming Street, Onehunga, Auckland 42 Beaded Wheels
Put your company in front of every member of the Vintage Car Club (and a whole lot of other readers as well). With an expanding readership you can discover an economical way of reaching a new audience. Our trade directory advertisments starts from just $70 per issue. Phone 03 332 3531 Email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz
FOR MOTORING VETERAN
New Zealand’s
No. 376 June/July
Foremost
76 YEARS
Historical
Motoring
Magazine
$7.95
2022
SIC CLL TOAS E PEDA THE METAL OPTHE SK DRIVERS PUT T ROAD TES CUB C50 1979 HONDA PLACE MARKET PROJECT FIND YOUR
000012
Our customers tell us that advertising in Beaded Wheels really works...
AND VINTAGE CLASSIC,
9 418979
Contact: GRAEME TULLOCH Ph: 027 612 2312 or 06 368 2202 Email: tullochfamily@xtra.co.nz ı tulmac.co.nz
ING THE KETTER UTION CONTRIB STARTS TRIC FROM ELEC 'N ROLL TO ROCK
DREAM
DRIVING
OUR HISTORY
LATEST CLUB INFORMATION
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE This sixth President’s Message marks the end of my first year in this role. One thing that I was not expecting in taking on the job, and feel disappointed about, is the number of unpleasant emails and comments that get sent around. I understand that we are all passionate about our Club and hobby but it is just that, a hobby. The Club is about having fun, using our vehicles and socialising with like-minded people. No-one should endure disrespect from another member. Can I ask that you all take a minute to check what you have written before you push the send button, whether to another member, your Branch Committee, the Management Committee or the National Office? Ask yourself, is this something you would like to receive? Please, let’s keep it friendly and respectful. You will see from the Club’s Annual Report, mailed to you all that the Management Committee positions have all remained the same. While this is great as five of the team have now served their first year and are just getting their feet under the desk so to speak, it still leaves us with the Hon Secretary/
Treasurer position vacant. We will keep our eyes and ears to the ground and try for another year to fill this role. In the reports you can see that the Club is still in a strong financial position and that we have managed to operate within our income for another year. The decision made last year to increase the membership fees was based on the ever-increasing postage and printing costs the Club is experiencing. I believe this was a sound decision and has enabled us to return this year’s result. These accounts have been prepared and reported slightly differently this year to align with the new reporting standards required under the new Incorporated Societies Act. With our new computer system, we are easily able to meet this requirement. Our Branch Portal also will enable each branch to meet their new requirement to have an up-to-date membership contact list available at all times. Not long after you receive this edition, we will be holding our AGM in Tauranga. It is great that as a national club any branch from around the country can put their hand up to host this event. We have two South Island
branches already locked in for 2025 and 2027 but at this stage require a North Island branch to take on 2026 and 2028. Give this some thought within your local committee and if you have any questions regarding what’s involved contact Karen in the National Office. As well as our AGM in Tauranga the Executive meet on the Friday night and Saturday afternoon for our second meeting of the year. This will be a rather busy meeting as we continue to work on our new structure and constitution. We will be presenting our first draft document put together by Steven Moe and his team at Parry Field Lawyers. Steven is an Incorporated Societies expert and was recommended to us through the FOMC. He presented at last year’s AGM in Nelson and fully understands how our 36 Branch Club is currently run. He agreed that it is impossible to govern correctly with 46 people on a committee but feels that the new structure the Executive has put forward from our past workshops will still allow for each branch to have its vote with the creation of the six new Branch Representatives positions. Each
VCCNZ MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
CLUB CAPTAIN NORTHERN REGION Glyn Clements 021 0833 4081 nicc@vcc.org.nz
EDITOR, BEADED WHEELS Kevin Clarkson 021 0270 6525 kevinclarkson@vcc.org.nz
PRESIDENT George R. Kear 027 221 4332
CLUB CAPTAIN SOUTHERN REGION Mark Wilkinson 021 168 6068 sicc@vcc.org.nz
Rebecca George 021 293 7714 mgmt2@vcc.org.nz
REGISTRAR Neil Beckenham 021 588 536 registrar@vcc.org.nz
mgmt1@vcc.org.nz
president@vcc.org.nz
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Diane Quarrie 027 333 1329 pastpresident@vcc.org.nz SECRETARY/ TREASURER Vacant
Andy Fox 03 314 3763
SPEED STEWARD Ray Sanders 021 632 563 speedsteward@vcc.org.nz
Murray Trounson 03 339 8830 mgmt3@vcc.org.nz
Branch Delegate will be able to present this draft document within their branch either through your local committees or at a club night, so I hope you all take the opportunity to go through it. Our last significant event for Winter is our annual National Day on 25 August. While the focus is raising funds for Daffodil Day and your local branch of the Cancer Society this event is also about promoting the Club. Please invite your friends along for a ride in your car or invite them to use their own vehicle on the day. This is an ideal opportunity for to them experience the atmosphere and benefits the Club has to offer. Our membership remains steady again this year which means that we are attracting new members, a direct result of all the effort that branches put in.
George Kear VCCNZ National President
ARCHIVIST Don Muller 03 385 6850
archivist@vcc.org.nz
VCCNZ LIFE MEMBERS Andrew Anderson Roger White Norm Dewhurst Rod Brayshaw John Coomber
COMMEMORATIVE AWARDS ERRATA
On page 38 of our last issue there were errors in our captions. The first photo was not David North, it is Sanford Huckle in a Triumph Spitfire. The third photo is Phil Benvin in his Jaguar XK140. Apologies to David North for our errors in his excellent article.
Congratulations to the following members who have recently been awarded their 50 and 60 Year Awards.
Field, Peter Griffen, Tom Lawrence, Charles Robertson, Ray
50 YEAR
Nelson West Coast Gore Nelson
60 YEAR McLeod, Douglas
Southland
Beaded Wheels 43
FESTIVAL UPDATE NELSON 15–21 MARCH 2026
The Vero Festival of Historic Motoring is less than 20 months away! Make sure 15–21 March 2026 is set aside in your diary. We would love to see you there. ACCOMMODATION We’ve had some great offers from hotels and motels around Nelson Tasman. They have been sent out to pre-registered people in our July Newsletter which you can read here: www.bit.ly/VIFHMstayoffers All indications are that while it is officially shoulder season in Nelson, there is still some pressure on accommodation availability so get in as soon as you can and secure a place to stay.
Latest accommodation information
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS A few key questions have been popping up. Here’s what we can say now: When does the Festival start and finish? First day - Sunday 15 March 2026
44 Beaded Wheels
is a half day in the afternoon with time set aside for entrants to register, socialise, and take part in an opening ceremony. Final day - Saturday 21 March is a full competitive day combined with a public display, followed by the Grand Finale in the evening, so those with stamina enough will actually probably finish on the Sunday morning. Is my vehicle eligible? If your vehicle is VCC club eligible ie more than 30 years old, then yes! You do need to get a VIC though (a Vehicle Identity Card) as this is a national event. This is a very straight forward process that one of your branch members will be able to walk you through, if not, get in touch with VCC National Office. There’s a form to fill out, an inspection to check details and then a few weeks later a wee certificate and a window sticker arrive in the mail. VICs expire after ten years so think about getting yours done now to avoid a bottle neck in 2025/26. Will there be somewhere to park a trailer and our tow vehicle? Yes. The site is still to be finalised but it is unlikely it will have overnight security so plan to lock your trailer.
Will my dietary requirements be catered for? Yes. We’re working with a very experienced caterer capable of dealing with large numbers of people and multiple dietary requirements so we should be able to cater to your needs. The registration form will ask for your dietary needs but if you have something you’d like to check with us now or you feel is out of the ordinary please let Mike know at festivalcomms@ vcc.org.nz Will there be good rally routes suitable for my veteran vehicle? Yes. Kyra and Jim are working furiously on rally routes and they are very well acquainted with veteran vehicles having experienced the trials and tribulations of rallying their own. At the other end of the spectrum they are also working on long routes that will keep those in more modern vehicles and/or those with an adventurous streak entertained. The competitive day(s) will also cater to the full range of vehicles we’re likely to see at the event. Please keep the questions coming in! festivalcomms@ vcc.org.nz
REGISTRATIONS OF INTEREST If you participated in the VCC survey you don’t need to sign up at our website. If you didn’t though, and want to be kept up to date leading up to the event please sign up at www.historicmotoring.org. nz - remember to tick the “Sign me up for the newsletter!” box otherwise we can’t send you updates.
THANK YOU VERO Lastly we’d like to acknowledge the huge commitment of support Vero has made to the Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring. They are our key sponsor and their sponsorship makes this event so much more affordable and enjoyable for all of us. Please seriously consider them for your insurance needs. Vero Consumer Insurance Specialists have supported the Vintage Car Club for over 30 years and can offer the best insurance package for your Vintage, Veteran and Classic cars. The Club and your Branch benefit when you insure your house, contents, every-day vehicles and boats with the Vero insurance scheme. www.vero.co.nz Ray Robertson, Festival Director
NATIONAL OFFICE NEWS Office Hours Monday to Friday 9.30am to 1.30pm. admin@vcc.org.nz
ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION TIME
Renewal invoices will be emailed to all members in late August or early September 2024, for the subscription year 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2025. For those members that do not have an email address in our system, the invoices will be posted. If you don’t receive your invoice, please let your Branch Secretary or National Office know before the end of September. Membership cards will be forwarded to financial members in November. Members who have not paid by 1 November 2024, will show as unfinancial. Unfinancial members may not receive their Beaded Wheels magazine or Branch Newsletter. Reminder notices will be sent before Christmas, and again in January, along with Branch
CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS No. 382 June/July 2023
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Secretaries being advised of their unfinancial members. Members whose subscription renewal invoice is unpaid at the time of the March 2025 Executive Meeting will have their membership with the Club cancelled, as per the constitution, and will lose any previous continuous membership. Please advise National Office if you have changed your postal address or email address to ensure that you receive your renewal invoice. If you intend to resign it would be appreciated if you notify the National Office by 31 October 2024. You will be able to pay directly into the Club’s bank account, or via credit card, via a link in the email with the invoice. Alternatively, payments can
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be made by online banking. Cheques are no longer accepted. You must use your full membership number as the payment reference for internet banking. NATIONAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Club’s Executive Meeting and Annual General Meeting will take place in Tauranga on 10 August 2024. The Executive also meet on 9 August 2024. The Executive is comprised of one delegate from each branch plus the Management Committee members. Your delegate will report back to your branch on the proceedings. The minutes of the Executive Meeting are distributed to each Branch Secretary along with the minutes of the AGM. All members are welcome to view the AGM minutes that the branches will be provided with. BRANCH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS
Branches around the country have held their annual general meetings and as a result there
are some new committee members. We would like to welcome all the new committees and thank all those who have retired for their assistance over the past years. The work that the committees put in to running the Club and assisting with the work undertaken by National Office is greatly appreciated.
BEADED WHEELS DELIVERY We are aware that there are delivery delays of our Beaded Wheels magazine to some members/subscribers. Unfortunately, this is outside National Office control. Please allow up to three weeks for NZ Post to deliver your magazine. After this timeframe, National Office are happy to provide a replacement magazine (where available) if you have not received one. VCC VERO INSURANCE SCHEME
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BRANCH NEWS
Ashburton: Cortina Club Saturday Cruise .
ASHBURTON
Ashburton: Frank Sandy’s found something to keep him warm at our swap meet.
Ashburton: Anthony Hampton landowner presenting Westpac Rescue Helicopter with donation from Rally.
Auckland: 1929 Oakland. Photo Peter Wood.
46 Beaded Wheels
TREVOR BEGG
The Ashburton Plains Rotary Club annual Classic Car Run was held on 28 April, with a good number of our members taking part. We ended up at the homestead of the Grigg family at Surrey Hills Station, situated in the foothills of Mt Somers. A very young member of their family had been to Starship Hospital in Auckland for treatment and the organisers chose to give the proceeds to Starship. Our swap meet was held in May with a good number of sites sold. Although the public numbers were down a little on other years it was still a good result with a lot of trading going on. We already have a very large number of sites sold for our 2025 event. At our May club night we had Richard Joseph and Alex Quigley from the Mayfield–Mt Somers St Johns showing us how to use our defibrillator. We also had the opportunity to try some CPR on a mannequin. It was a very interesting evening, and while we hope we never need to put it to use it is good to be familiar with it. We also had a visit from the Ford Cortina Club doing a Saturday cruise, with seven cars having a look in our Museum and Parts Shed. It is good to have these one-make clubs visiting us. Last Beaded Wheels I reported about the Wheat & Wheels Rally that was held recently. Our members’ vehicles were on display there. On 22 June the Machinery Club went to Christchurch to present the Westpac Rescue Helicopter organisation with a donation of $30,000. A big thanks
to all those that brought vehicles along to the display to make it possible.
AUCKLAND
PETER WOOD
Another year has slipped by and our AGM is over. Members who have been involved in the running of the branch, and those who have done so much to keep the branch’s assets spic and span, deserve our thanks. Our mid-week Tourers event was a great success, with 42 cars and more than 80 attendees heading out for the day to finish at Barry Phillips’s automotive collection. A recent club run was less well attended, but still very much enjoyed by members who came along. The run included Awhitu Peninsula and the Orpheus wreck site on the Manukau Harbour, before finishing at the Waiuku Museum. Our June motorcycle meeting was attended by 46 members along with Brett Cronin, an Onehunga Vespa rider who saw the bikes and dropped in to join us for the day. As usual there was a guest speaker arranged, and this month it was Graeme Vial who brought along a very special BSA A65 (Frightening) which he had built, starting with a new frame. The bike was on show in the clubhouse for the meeting. Earlier in the month the vintage meeting was held, and David Goryl attended with his recently purchased 1929 Oakland 6 cylinder. I recently sold my 1946 Chev Fleetmaster. The veteran meeting was well attended and we were sad to hear that Barry Birchall had disposed of his veteran Cadillac.
Auckland: Opua Ferry to Russell.
Banks Peninsula: Night Trial 2024.
BANKS PENINSULA DON GERRARD We welcome new members Wayne Lang, ‘29 Whippet sedan and ‘56 Vauxhall Cresta; Peter and Anne Sidey, ‘66 MGB roadster and ‘54 Armstrong Siddeley; Clark Mauger, ‘69 Nissan Patrol; Hannah Chamberlain, Josh Smith, and Meg Pidgeon. Our June Garage Raid was an overwhelming success, with more than 60 members taking-in the vast Daniel Smith collection of veteran, vintage and classic cars, bikes, helicopters, commercial vehicles and motoring memorabilia. Next were the interesting marques of Andrew McGuire, including Alvis, Bentley, Jaguar, and Ford Model A, before arriving at our final city destination of Auto Restorations, showcasing an eclectic range of vehicles in various stages of rebuild and fettling. Great to see world-class workmanship being undertaken from Mini to Ferrari. This rounded off a very enlightening afternoon. Our Night Trial in June, saw 14 crews depart in dry conditions from the Wigram Air Force Museum. Entrants headed around the area in a southerly direction, endeavouring to pick up answers to the usual cryptic questions as they motored behind Tai Tapu and on to, and over, Gebbies Pass. Hill-climb territory for some, but for a couple of MG crews the twists and turns proved a little stomach-churning, one culminating in a DNF. From Lyttelton, competitors made their way up to the dizzy heights of Summit Road before descending through Mt Pleasant to finish at the Heathcote Valley pub. Top marks went to the Wright Equipe in their Series 3 Land Rover, with James Palmer and crew getting
Banks Peninsula: Night Trial 2024.
Auckland: Malcolm and Bruce’s bikes.
Beaded Wheels 47
Bay of Plenty: Mid Week Run and Shed Raid to Hank Verryt’s premises. Donn White Photos.
Bay of Plenty: Paul Fahey chatting to our Branch Patron Alistair Jones. Donn White Photos.
Bay of Plenty: Some of the BOP VCC members who made a trip to the North Shore Branch. Brian Pratt Photo.
Canterbury: Some of the cars ready to depart on the Autumn Run.
Canterbury: All things French at June’s OCBC.
Canterbury: Joseph McClintock with passenger Henry Whiston waiting to start their run in the Grasskhana.
an award for the oldest vehicle. Rumours have it that the Rennie Italian entry was lost on manoeuvres. Many thanks to Michael Pidgeon for another excellent escapade.
BAY OF PLENTY
KAAREN SMYLIE
Considerable effort is going into planning and organising the 2024 VCC AGM, which is taking place in Tauranga over the weekend of 9 – 11 August. Much planning is also going on in our neck of the woods into this year’s fundraiser for cancer on the VCC National Day. Last year we were blessed with the superb organisational skills that Raewyn and Trevor Hughes exhibited. This year they have put their hands up again and everything appears to be running like clockwork. Hopefully some sunshine will prevail this time, and that should mean that our publicity machines will reap a better response from the public and invited car clubs. At our branch AGM we filled all the positions on our committee. We have a new Chairman, Donn White, as well as a new Treasurer, Jill Whitcombe. We thanked our previous Treasurer Keith Perkins for his 14 years of excellent service. For my part I coordinated a run to North Shore Branch. They did a great
48 Beaded Wheels
job of hosting about 25 or so members who ventured up to the ‘Big Smoke’ for a weekend. Locally we have kept ourselves amused with a well-supported Mid-Week Run to Hank Verryt’s massive shed, jam packed with motoring memorabilia and Kiwiana. Branch Patron Alastair Jones also took some of our members over the Kaimai Range to the Arapuni Hydro, which proved to be an excellent destination for the June End of Month Run.
CANTERBURY
COLIN HEY
The cooler weather definitely hasn’t suppressed enthusiasm within our branch, as events continue to attract good numbers with an eagerness to be involved. Our
annual Autumn Run and then the Rural Run a few weeks later both attracted good numbers, and both found routes off the beaten track with good finishing locations, the latter at what is reputedly the best pie shop in Canterbury - much to the delight of many participants. The Annual Ross Butler Memorial Grasskhana, held within our club grounds, also fielded an enthusiastic response. Despite the required skill being to match two timed runs on each course, most added some pace which supplemented the spectacle. The areas used have now been re-levelled and will recover in time for Swap Meet in October. Restoration of the Year attracted three full car restorations, one motorcycle and one recommissioned car. Especially
s Central Hawke’s Bay: the Malcolm’s Model A in front of the historic buildings at Onga Onga.
worthy of mention is the stunning 1922 Fiat 510S owned by Philip and Marietta Jeeves (see BW 380), which has now been fully finished. This demonstrated some exceptional workmanship as did the other two restored cars, and the Triumph 650 motorcycle entered by Chris Leith. Our themed OCBC coffee mornings continue, and the subject in June proved very popular with a great turnout of everything French, including Citroens and even Velo Solexes. This was followed by a simple lunch and then our AGM, which was a very positive meeting. Our signature event for ‘winter’ of course was the Irishman Rally. No doubt you will read about this elsewhere in this magazine. Suffice to say it was once again a superb event.
CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY
HEATHER CHEER
Early May was busy with two outings organised by club members. Ken Lyons organised a 10 Pin Bowling event in Hastings, where a good turnout of our members was boosted by some visitors from the Hawke’s Bay Branch to give extra competition. A good time was had by all. The next weekend Henk and Ella Domper organized a country run, taking us to the township of Onga Onga for a quick stop, before heading for an autumn walk in the park-like setting of Woodland Hills arboretum, east of Waipukurau. The arboretum has an open day once a year as a fund raiser for the Hawke’s Bay rescue helicopter. We picnicked in the gardens overlooking some of the latest plantings of very colourful young trees. We then were able to wander through the contoured landscape to enjoy one man’s vision of beauty. Torque Heads group is still operating well and have now decided to have a luncheon on the last Friday of each month.
Central Otago: New Member Dave Hawkins, BSA 650 A10.
Central Otago: Flyer Trip Crew.
The first one saw a good turnout at the Black Dog pub in Makotuku. It was with sadness that many of our branch attended the funeral of Shirley Foot in Fielding. Shirley and John have been great club members and supportive of our branch. Shirley was a super navigator and helped them both win many rallies throughout New Zealand.
CENTRAL OTAGO
JOHN GRAY
A branch outing to ride the Kingston Flyer steam train took place on Sunday 5 May. Members travelled down the side of Lake Wakatipu, enjoying the views in brilliant sunshine, to meet at the Flyer Café for a hearty lunch before the train journey. The train, pulled by an AB class steam locomotive of 1927 vintage, took us on the 14km journey to Fairlight and return, with most of us traveling in the luxury of the 1900 Birdcage gallery coach. The trip was attended by about 17 club members.
Our AGM was held on Sunday 16 June, preceded by a potluck lunch to warm the attendees before the official proceedings got underway. Most branch officer positions remained the same, however committee members Neil Webster and John Gray were confirmed as Vice chairman and Club Captain, respectively. Secretary Graham Taylor was delighted to inform us that member numbers have risen during the past year from 147 to 165, making a net gain of around 12%. This is encouraging in today’s environment of declining club membership across society in general. The committee also welcomes Garry Fredrickson to the newly created position of New Member Liaison Officer, to assist the integration of new members into our activities. Recent new members welcomed by the branch include Martin Hardy, Richard Tyree, Andy Gibson, Colin and Lynn Cameron, Simon Manning, Brian Mitchell, Dave Hawkins, and Mike Tutty.
Beaded Wheels 49
EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY
BRUCE SEDDON
Our club run in May caught the last of the autumn sunshine as 24 club members filled the rail carts of Awakeri Rail Adventures to capacity. Loading up the carts in pairs or fours, according to the seating, we got a warning not to use the foot brake. Smooth use of the accelerator, engine braking and maintaining following distances compensated for what turned out to be an absence of brakes! The 20 km cruise along the abandoned NZR track to Taneatua included stops to feed the farmyard of chickens, and a tour through White Pine Bush Reserve, which is a small parcel of original lowland native bush with some enormous kahikatea trees left untouched during the bush felling of 100 years ago. The far end of the bush is the roadside entrance with a gumboot covered fence, where all the gumboots are decorated with slogans and art. The rail operator offered $20 to anyone who could name the actor and western movie detailed on one boot’s slogan. Lesley McCann walked away with the money with her quick answer of “Clint Eastwood and A Fist Full of Dollars”. Further up the line we ventured back into the bush for a barbeque lunch. At the end of the line we helped turn the carts for a quick return to the base at Awakeri. A great social day out.
EBOP: Gumboot fence at White Pine Bush.
June and the Winter Solstice saw our annual Lorolei Pollard Night Owl Run. The run for the nearly 30 members was just long enough to make them hungry for the pizza meal on their return to base. Winners were Ben and Marion Vermeulen, closely followed by new members John and Jackie Taggart in their 1993 Cadillac Eldorado.
FAR NORTH
MURRAY CORMACK
rally at the new home of the Duirs, where they provided us with a most welcome afternoon tea. The Caffeine ’n’ Classics mid-month Sunday morning meet was well-supported at a new venue at Awanui. Our June Molloy Trophy rally is to be run at the end of the month and promises to be a great day out.
On a Saturday afternoon in mid-May we completed the trifecta of an AGM, a monthly meeting, and then our Mother’s Day rally. It was well worth getting our cars out for. The AGM capped off a successful year for the branch, and it was good to see both old and new members involved for the coming year. Appreciation was warmly expressed for Robyn Mackay, our Treasurer (plus a lot else) standing down after 10
GORE
years in the role. We rely on members giving their time for running the branch. Following the ordinary monthly meeting, we quickly got into our cars for the Mother’s Day rally organised by Dave and Dorothy Duirs. Concentrating on roads in the Doubtless Bay area, it proved a very interesting drive. We were surprised by the many new roads and homes in the Mangonui, Coopers Beach and Taipa areas. Sometimes you don’t have to travel far to see something new. We completed the
to Daryl Paskell’s fishing museum. There is a very interesting collection of all things fishing including rods, lures, nets and other paraphernalia from yesteryear, with many photos and memorabilia adorning the walls. Our AGM in June saw all positions filled except for Club Captain. Murray Proctor is our new branch Chairman. Our previous Chairman, Paul Herron, is now House Convener, a job which he is doing alongside organising the auction of the late Robin
EBOP: Magz and Lois Davies keeping company with Vlad PuTin.
EBOP: Awakeri Rail Adventures Terminus. Gore: Mary Tremaine and Francis Neilson at Awarua. “Haven’t phones come a long way in a short time”.
Far North: cars arriving at the Duirs Molloy Rally.
50 Beaded Wheels
BILL SHEDDAN
Winter weather has curtailed some events, including the planned Night Trial. Only three cars arrived for the event on a miserable Saturday evening in June so the evening was abandoned with the few hardy contestants returning to the warmth of their homes. The May Tuesday Ramble saw 11 cars and occupants head to the Mossburn Railway Hotel for lunch followed by a visit
Hawke’s Bay members admiring a beautiful Mercury on our recent Sunday run.
Gore: Branch member Marie Knight receiving instructions from her mother-in-law who had a long association with the New Zealand Post Office.
Gore Branch end of season run to Awarua Communications Museum mini theatre.
Dickson’s veteran and vintage cars and parts to be held on 21 September. Bruce Price organised a well-attended End of Season Run to the Awarua Communications Museum. This is situated on the Invercargill/Bluff highway, and instead of travelling on main roads we went via Seaward Downs and Mokotua then came onto Bluff Road close to Awarua, about a 50-mile drive from Gore. The Museum holds a vast array of communication equipment from the early telegraph and radio days through to the modern era. In the adjoining mini-theatre we watched well over an hour’s worth of early newsreels and films not seen since our childhood. A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon.
HAWKE’S BAY
DIANE FRIIS
Interest in branch activities continues to be high through these winter months. The Sunday Club Run attracted at least 30 cars for a short country run, followed by visits to two members’ sheds and collections. There is always plenty to see and talk about on these runs, whether it’s around the treasures in the sheds, or afterwards over a picnic afternoon tea. Thank you to Kim Hunter in Taradale, and Phil Friis in Clive, for letting us fossick around in their sheds. The monthly mid-week run was also well
Horowhenua Branch Mid-winter lunch.
supported, with a run to a deer farm close to Gwavas Forest. It was fascinating to learn about deer management and husbandry – particularly regarding the use of technology involved in farming these days. Many thanks to the Charteris family for hosting us. This visit was followed by lunch at the Sawyer’s Arms Hotel in nearby Tikokino. Members have been out and about in the South Island, with several keen adventurers taking part in the Irishman Rally. Our AGM was held recently, with a good turnout of members, with all committee roles being filled. Outgoing Chairman, Esther Smith, thanked committee members and volunteers for their hard work and commitment, and was in turn thanked for her sterling leadership over the last two years. This role has now passed to Ian Elmsly. The remainder of this year is looking busy with Winter Art Deco fast approaching, the annual Daffodil Rally for Cancer in August, our annual Safari Rally in October, and the branch’s 65th Anniversary Rally after that. That’s enough to keep us all busy until Christmas!
navigating, get their chance to drive the old heap while the men do the navigating. More than just that, this year two of our women members set the course as well. But wait, there’s more. They also prepared lunch at the clubrooms prior to the start. After an hour or so driving around the area south of Levin we met at a famous pottery at Te Horo, which was established in 1969. When the expressway to Otaki was built, the whole lot was disassembled and rebuilt brick by brick only 50 metres further east. The run continued southwards to Manakau where we visited a large property where proteas are grown. Many samples were purchased (but not by the navigators.) Our mid-winter lunch drew a crowd. Not a Christmas theme like some do, but just a jolly good get-together. We tried a new event in June - The Shiny Parts Auction. It did not attract as many people as we hoped, but we still sold several hundred dollars worth of stuff and donated the proceeds to a charity. We also learned a bit about how to improve the event for next year.
HOROWHENUA
MANAWATU
BRUCE JAMIESON
One of our popular events every year is the Ladies Run, in which our women members and supporters, who often do the
BRYAN ABRAHAM
April finished with a number of members taking their cars to the Julia
Beaded Wheels 51
Wallace Retirement Village for residents to enjoy and reminisce over. May began with another Sunday jaunt - a leisurely drive around Manawatu roads then back to the clubrooms for afternoon tea. May was also the month we held our AGM, and again this year the branch was fortunate enough to fill all committee positions. The annual Post-Era Rally took participants on a loop from Feilding to Halcombe, on to Stanway, then back to Cheltenham for lunch. After lunch it was off to Waituna West, Hunterville, Turakina Valley then back through Halcombe to the club rooms for presentations and tea. Club night in June saw a well-attended presentation on Brewing Beer for Vintagents by member Allan Hardacre. The evening covered commercial brewing and home brewing followed by a little tasting for interested members at the end of it all.
Later in June members were on the road for the Night Trial. Departing the clubrooms after dark, participants crossed the ranges and explored roads in the Tararua District before returning to the clubrooms for presentations and supper.
MARLBOROUGH
LINDA LAING
May is our AGM month and our great committee have all been re-elected. We are now all gearing up for the Annual Snow Run with Nelson next month. May’s motorcycle ride through to the Rai Valley was uneventful for most of us apart for one rider who, while going up the hill out of Canvastown, had the misfortune to be pulled over by one of New Zealand’s most dedicated police officers. If it had been for speeding, he would have gleefully flashed the ticket to prove that a single cylinder thumper of ancient origins was capable of indeed actually reaching the speed limit, and in this case surpassing it while going uphill. Perhaps he was riding in a manner to endanger other road users
and scaring the local cow population. No he received a dressing down and a warning for traveling at 83 km an hour in a 90 km zone uphill on a single cylinder bike as he could hold traffic up! The June motorcycle run was something a bit different being combined with the Distinguished Gentleman’s ride. Ten motorbikes took part from our branch, with a combined total of about 40 bikes. They raised $2535. It was great to see our boys flying the flag with their old bangers, a great day.
NELSON
RAY ROBERTSON
The annual Anne Eagan Ladies Run was held this year around the city area, with the idea being to traverse streets and roads named after Nelson women of note. Close on 40 members took the opportunity to learn a little about these women and what they became known for. Part of this run took the vehicles through the original Nelson Cemetery at Wakapuaka, where over 16,000 people are interred. The
t
Manawatu: Branch member Allan Hardacre giving a very informative presentation about “Brewing for Vintagents” at the June Club Night.
s
Marlborough: Some of the motorcycles on the Distinguished Gentleman’s ride.
Manawatu: Participants cars lined up outside the clubrooms for the start of the May Post-Era Rally.
Marlborough: Branch clubrooms with some of our vehicles on display.
52 Beaded Wheels
Nelson: Darcy Bovey’s 1937 Buick going up Nelson’s Cemetery Hill.
Nelson: Linda Topliss receives the Anne Eagan Trophy from last year’s winner Debbie Robertson.
Nelson: Linda & Richard Topliss in their Morgan.
Nelson: Peter Field receives his 50 year award from National President George Kear.
cemetery has spectacular views out over the estuary to the Boulder Bank, Tasman Bay and back toward the city. The run finished with lunch and prize giving at Smugglers Bar, where everyone was able to read up on and learn a little more about these Nelson Women. Our clubrooms have been given a birthday with an upgrade of everything audio visual, including a new 85-inch television, sound system and internet connection, along with the addition of exterior lighting to the new outdoor covered area. This month saw some changing of the guard at the AGM. We thank those retiring and support those taking on their new roles. The presentation of 50-year awards were made to Peter Field and Ray Robertson by National President George Kear, along with various appreciation awards given for the outstanding efforts those members have contributed to branch events. Our VCC Nelson Ladies Craft Group has now been meeting for nearly six years with some very creditable work being produced.
Nelson: Ray Robertson receives his 50 year award from National President George Kear.
NORTH SHORE RICHARD BAMPTON We were pleased to welcome 20 BoP members to a weekend and Sunday run in May. A welcome, afternoon tea and a look round our sheds on Saturday was followed by dinner in the evening. Sunday’s run “out West” with 32 cars enjoyed tours of two sheds – Malcolm Turner’s with American cars and motorcycles, followed by Mike Courtney’s with Austin 7s, two veterans, and a Jaguar Special under construction. At our AGM the only change to the committee was the retirement of Richard Lloyd after a good spell during some of which he was an excellent Club Captain. As usual, after prolonged discussion and unhelpful answers to the many questions posed about the accounts, the treasurer was eventually let off the hook and the financial statement passed (unsurprisingly) unanimously. Progress Editor Stuart Battersby retired from editorship but remains on the committee. His successor, Wade Alexander, has big boots to fill. Thirty five year badges were presented to Grant Henderson and Ian Kell, and 25 year badges to Colin Austen, Ray Jackson, Graham Evans and Kevin Keane. Because he makes a much better job of mowing
North Shore: Bruce Pitcher’s very blue 1949 Ford Bonus, winner of the restoration Trophy.
the lawns than his predecessor (who shall remain nameless), Gerald Miller was named Most Enthusiastic Member this year, and Bruce Pitcher collected the restoration trophy for his (very blue) Mercury engined 1949 Ford Bonus. Club Captain’s Award went to John Ellis and Tony Gillett for their outstanding work on the wooden
Beaded Wheels 53
Rotorua: some of this year’ trophy winners.
North Shore: Tony Gillett and John Ellis beside the BSA van.
Rotorua: Cars at Centennial Park, Rotorua.
North Shore: Colin Austen in his 1927 Model T New Beauty
Rotorua: Austin 7 with police car escort!
framework of the BSA van (believed to be the only one in existence).
OTAGO
MARION MCCONACHIE
In May Trevor Kempton put his hand up to reinstate the Ladies Run in conjunction with our Annual Restoration Rally. There was only one new restoration, Bruce Murray’s 1970 Honda 1300 coupe, on offer. We had a good turnout of members enjoying an afternoon of motoring and trying to remember what businesses used to be in certain locations some 40+ years ago. A small group of us decided to tour together to Ashburton for their swap meet weekend, staying two nights. Friday’s fish and chip night saw 17 members joining us
54 Beaded Wheels
North Shore: Ian Kell with his Model T .
for tea at our motel, and on Saturday 12 of us enjoyed dinner out at a local restaurant. The four men spent the day at the swap meet, while we four women did a quicker wander around the swap meet and then a stint at Kmart. This might become a regular event. At our recent branch AGM, I finally managed to hand over the secretary’s position to Nicola Wilkinson. While still on the committee as Roadrunner Editor I look forward to working with the team in a slightly different role. Our House Manager, Bill Partel, has also stood down and we welcome David Mills into that role. Nevin Gough has come on to the committee with the promise of arranging some more veteran/vintage motoring options. As many of you know he is a keen one to get
out and explore with his cars. He and Janeane have taken part in many rallies so far this year, including the Highland Fling and more recently the Irishman Rally. Our branch wishes to record the recent passing of 50+ year member Winston Wingfield and we extend our sympathy to Kay and her family. An obituary was placed in our July Roadrunner.
ROTORUA
RONALD MAYES
Adelai and the late Bill Skelton’s 1929 Austin 7 was snapped up very rapidly when offered for sale and, suitably wrapped up, was taken to its new Auckland area owner accompanied by a police car. Adelai wrote that the Chummy had covered many miles over good and not so good roads and never
let them down (If it did, Bill knew how to fix it and get it on its way) and had given them lots of fun. That had left our branch with few active vintage-era vehicles until we welcomed new members with an Essex Super Six and a Ford Model A phaeton. The April mid-week run was organised by Les and Thelma Forward of the Eastern Bay of Plenty Branch, and participants met near Whakatane. They drove up to the Matahina and Aniwaniwa dams on the Rangitaiki River, and to Murupara for lunch, then to Kaiangaroa village – areas not usually covered by our branch runs. In May our Sunday drive was a very short one to Centennial Park for a picnic lunch where many tourists were keenly interested in our cars. On another Sunday in June a round-town run with questions to answer was held in the quiet industrial areas, before the annual trophy awards were made.
and passengers. It was a Poker Run that went around Invercargill, then out and around Winton and Eastern Southland, with drivers collecting cards on the way. On arrival at the clubrooms there was a field test involving accurate parking, followed by a quiz about notable places on the run and identifying unusual tools and objects, including a Japanese parking ticket. The overall winner was Wayne Calderwood in his 1971 Jaguar XJ6. The following week the Waimea Motorcycle Rally attracted 15 bikes on a cool damp morning. The publican’s choice was Dale Simmons on his 1953 Francis Barnett and the overall winer was Dave Sycamore on his 1976 Yamaha XS 650. The monthly Wednesday runs continue to attract good numbers with over 50 people attending in May, enjoying the outing and meal. We are making the 2025 Southland Rally
SOUTHLAND
a special event to celebrate the branch’s 70th anniversary. The rally will be held in Invercargill on Saturday 8 February 2025.
CAROL MCGARRY
The combined P60/P80 Rally attracted 22 vehicles with a larger number of Post 60s supported by a good number of navigators
SOUTH CANTERBURY
SHANNON STEVENSON
The PV Rally, organised by Gavin and Michelle Munro, took place on 12 May, taking more than 20 participants’ vehicles on lightly travelled roads around Pleasant Point and Geraldine, with the field tests taking place at Temuka Domain. A couple of weeks later the End of Season Run was held, attracting more than 15 members’ vehicles. It took participants on a loop run via Arowhenua and Pleasant Point, finishing at the branch clubrooms. The All British Day was held on King’s Birthday Sunday, attracting more than 75 vehicles to Caroline Bay, with the run being along back roads to Waimate. Several members took part in the Canterbury Branch’s Irishman Rally over King’s Birthday weekend. The AGM took place on 6 June. The following trophies were presented; Chairman’s Trophy, Colin Hawke and Grant Mitchell; Stevenson Trophy for Best Restored Vehicle, Lex Westoby; Navigators Trophy, Helen Rzepecky and Parts Shed Trophy, John Campbell. Twenty-five
Southland: P60/P80 Rally.
South Canterbury: Colin Hawke’s 1973 Hillman Hunter GT, All British Day, Caroline Bay, Timaru All British Day.
Southland: P60/P80 Rally.
South Canterbury: Mini parking two to a parking bay, Caroline Bay, Timaru All British Day
Beaded Wheels 55
South Otago: Brothers Owen (left) and Gordon Duthie made the Scooter Safari a family affair.
South Otago: Traction engine at Stevenson’s, Ian McDonald and Irene Sutton.
South Otago: Gordon Duthie on the Trans Alpine Scooter Safari.
Taranaki: The line up of members cars for the funeral of the late Patrick Stieller at the Waitara cemetery.
year badges were presented to Donald Goodman, Wayne Austin, Ron Laplanche, Dean Rae and Peter Morrison, while a 35 year badge was presented to Wayne Irving. The Chairperson is now Colin Hawke, while most committee members have continued their positions, Kevin Manchester has taken on the Club Captain role. Mid-week runs are proving popular, these being held on the second Thursday of the month, with an average attendance of 10 vehicles per run.
SOUTH OTAGO
NOELINE MILNE
We have lost some valuable members and friends in recent months. Philip Sell supported the Club in many ways, including looking after the parts store, and assisted with his mechanical skills. Philip, or Phil as we all knew him, took pride in his vehicles, enjoying many motorcycle rallies and adventures over the years. With the support of his wife Beverley, the branch prospered from their input, right back since the early days when the clubrooms were on Johnson Road before being shifted to the present-day site.
56 Beaded Wheels
John Souness, a well-known identity of South Otago, and branch member for several years, is now at rest. John and his wife Betty enjoyed many outings in their Citroen and Studebaker vehicles. Wednesday Runs continue to encourage members to join together for an afternoon of scenic motoring or to visit places of interest. The May outing was organised by Gaynor Falconer, and ended at Clydevale Tavern for refreshments. The June outing visited members Cheryl and Wayne Stevenson at their property at Titri, Waihola, where a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding habitat was enjoyed from their new home atop the hill. A treat was in store for us as we discovered a vast collection of all sorts of stuff that had been accumulated by the Sinclair family relations over many years. Wayne says, “they didn’t throw anything away”, with it all now displayed in their very large shed. We then gathered at the Black Swan in Waihola for refreshments. The muchadmired, pristine condition 1974 Chrysler Valiant Charger of June and Gerald Scherp was along for the outing. Gordon Duthie completed the Trans Alpine Scooter Safari from McLeans Island to Hokitika on a Hero Gizmo 49cc bike
in very cool conditions to raise funds for Cancer.
TARANAKI
COLIN JOHNSTON
Our branch Facebook page has been updated and is back on track again with a new administrator, the youngest member in our branch. Alexander Johnston has now brought this modern way of communicating up to date with photos and comments on past, present and future events of the branch. One recent subject drew 48 hits, 13 comments and one share within 24 hours. Over 40 members attended our AGM in May, and most committee positions are now filled. We welcome back John Muter to the Club Captain position with his experience and knowledge of the role. The committee, at its first meeting co-opted Brian Evans as understudy for the Club Captain’s role. Mike Coils gave an interesting talk about his collection of antiques from his museum in Eltham. The 60th Maunga Moana Rally celebrations have been confirmed for 21/22 March 2025, with Rob Thomson as Rally Secretary, and Alexander and Colin Johnston as organisers. The rally will be based in
New Plymouth, and we look forward to welcoming new and past entrants to this milestone in our branch activities. It is with great sadness that I report of the untimely passing of our member Patrick Stieller. Patrick was a current member of the parts committee, and had been a past committee member. He was an extremely willing helper and was always available to man the check points on our annual rallies. He made many friends and enjoyed the camaraderie when attending rallies and events. Our deepest condolences to Sheryll and all the family.
TAUPO
GREG NATTRASS
The AGM was held with no real changes to the leadership. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of Life Membership to Maureen Ransley for her efforts in our branch over the years. Our monthly run took a group of members on a day excursion to National Park, where they enjoyed visiting Schnapps bar before returning home. The Petrol Heads group had their get together at the Wairakei International golf course. At a recent club night we were educated by member Tony Mannington about fire
safety. All about what to do and not to do in the event of a fire. The run for the month was our annual Brass Monkey, this traversing the streets of Taupo, to end up at Jolly Good Fellows on the lakefront. An enjoyable event organised by previous winners John and Jill Roberts. This year it was won by Graeme and Lynette Doree, with Rob and Jane Sacklyn, all tucked into a 1974 Triumph Stag.
WAIKATO
HUGH MCINALLY
Wow! What a turnout. I’m talking about the branch’s annual prestigious rally the Double 50. The entrant count was 68 cars. The most we have had in many a year, with entrants coming from near and far. There’s no doubt about it, if you want some lovely motoring the Waikato is the place to be. The day was perfect with no rain and slightly overcast. All cars headed south culminating with a lunch stop at the Timber Museum at Putaruru. An amazing place. If you’ve never been there, I suggest you put it on your “should visit” list. The evening prize-giving/dinner was held at the clubrooms which were packed with the 89 guests.
Our AGM was held recently with a few changes on the committee. Our departing chairman handed the reins over to Graham Pate. Graham is no stranger to the task, and has opted to do the coming year with the intention of training the newly elected vice chairman so that he may take over for the 2025-26 year. A big thank you must go to the departing committee members for their assistance with the branch for the past year and a big thank you to the new committee for giving their valuable time to the branch. September will see the Ladies Run, yes, a Ladies Run, not a Ladies Rally. This one will be with a twist that I am sure all that enter will very much enjoy. Mark the calendar, 8 September.
WAIMATE MAUREEN CHAMBERLAIN The “Three Passes, Three Gorges Rally” run was held in May. This year the run went from Waimate towards the McKenzie Pass first, instead of the usual way round. We stopped briefly at Cave for a brew and a fuel top up. The ford in the McKenzie Pass wasn’t as deep as usual, but the bottom was a little soft. Next stop was at the McKenzie Memorial where it was discovered that the
Waikato:
Waikato:
Taranaki: Members listening intently to Mike Coils discuss his collection from his Eltham museum.
Waikato:
Waikato:
Beaded Wheels 57
Chevy had a delaminated tyre which had caused a hand size chunk to disappear, leaving the canvas exposed so the spare was fitted. Lunch was at Cattle Creek, after which we headed for Meyers Pass. It had just been shingled, with extra chunky pit-run and boulders, making a lot of fun on the uphill sections. Late in the afternoon we rolled into the Forks Hotel, dusty and happy after a good day’s motoring. Waimate is trialling a mid-week run, hoping to hold it on the last Wednesday of the month. The first of these was a great success with about eight cars and 15 people attending. The Royal Hotel was a good starting point, and most people had a meal or a coffee and chips. With a full tummy we headed off about 1: 30pm. We had a little rain to start with, but it soon cleared as we went up Mill Road, crossed over to Hunter
Trans Alpine Scooter Safari 2024: The annual Trans Alpine Scooter Safari, a fundraiser for the Cancer Society, was held on Saturday 18 May. It is also an excuse to have a lot of fun on little, low powered, scooters! Owen Duthie and Barry Anderson took part and were keeping an eye out for the weather which can often make conditions miserable. The run went from Macleans Island (Christchurch) to Hokitika, 250km away. At 9am we were off to the West Coast Highway heading to our first stop at Sheffield. The public were parked along the road and out at their gates waving and clapping us along the way. The wind got up a bit at Porters Pass, over the top, then on to Arthur’s Pass for a break. By now the cloud was low and it was a bit damp and cool. Down the other side at a much faster rate! Coming into Kumara people lined either side of the road with
WANGANUI
Hills and followed them around to Wool Shed Valley Road. Down to SH1 and back to the clubrooms via Lower Hook Road for a cuppa. Everyone seemed to enjoy the run and had a good day
signs, balloons, lights, and much waving and clapping which continued all the way to Hokitika. Coming into Hokitika we continued to the end at the Boys Brigade hall for the evening meal and function for the riders. A total of $368,103 was raised.
treasurer, Neil Farrer, has stood down after 24 years as Branch Delegate, owing to failing health. This role has yet to be filled. Neil is a real legend and an inspiration to the VCC and our branch.
Waimate: Owen Duthie gives the thumbs up at the Arthur’s Pass lunch stop.
Waimate: 3 Passes, 3 gorges Rally in May. Photo Barry Anderson.
Wanganui: Jim Bilby and MaryAnn Vandyk’s rare 1957 Mk II Zephyr Abbott Estate under restoration.
58 Beaded Wheels
IAN HIGGINS
Two major events highlighted a hectic period. First, we held our Annual Rally incorporating the 70th anniversary of the formation of our Branch. An article covering the rally is to be found in ‘Rally Snippets.’ Branch stalwart, Neil Farrer, produced a very concise commemorative book outlying our history of 70 years as a branch of the VCC. Neil, with the assistance of a few long-time members, spent many hours poring over old newspaper articles and branch records. We were honoured to have our approaching 100-year-old Patron, Alan Bates, say a few words and cut the anniversary cake at our combined Annual Rally and Anniversary Dinner. At our AGM Sarah Howell retired because of ill health, and Jim Bilby, a former motorcycle sidecar racer, joined our ranks. Our elder statesperson and
Waimate: Margaret Rogers in her ‘28 Chev on 3 Passes rally. Photo Barry Anderson
Wanganui: Dale Whitaker’s 1980 Ford Escort Mk II.
Wanganui: Patron Alan Bates with daughter Linda Kendrick cutting the 70th Anniversary cake.
Wanganui: Ann Berntsen’s 1930 Model A Tudor.
In the monthly section of our Rivet, where members open their garage doors and talk about their involvement in the Club, the ladies of the Coffee Meet group were persuaded to share their secrets. They have one binding rule. No men allowed. Dale Whitaker, Ann Berntsen, Sue Voss, and Linda Kendrick were interviewed on behalf of the group and provided interesting stories about their vehicles. Great to have the ladies in our midst. They form such an integral part. Jim Bilby and his partner, Mary-Ann Vandyk, also contributed to the Rivet to tell of their experiences. They have a lovely Mk I Zephyr convertible, which is often seen on our rallies and club runs. They also have a quite rare Mk II Ford Zephyr Abbott Estate which is not too far away from being fully restored. They have another project on the go, a 1937 Ford Y in the initial stages of restoration.
WELLINGTON
JOHN STOKES
It wasn’t very sunny in Wellington on Wednesday 10 April, 1968. In fact, it was the stormiest day ever recorded in Wellington. This was, of course, the tragic Wahine Day. Our guest speaker for June’s club night was heavily involved on the water that day, and he had his VCC audience spellbound. For his story, go to the VCC website, click on Branch Newsletters and then on Wellington’s Motoring Spirit for July. Contrast that with the weather of Wednesday 26 June this year. No wind, and the winter sun shining down upon the very few club-eligible cars entered for the Kapiti Mid-Week Run, this time from Waikanae to Upper Hutt. Most participants took their moderns, because the route selected was the notorious Akatarawa Road over the Tararua Ranges! The first old car home was the 1977 Saab of Phil and Pat Pearce, and Terry Mathers in his ’29 Model A Ford was tail-end Charlie about 20 minutes later. The Sunday prior was anything but sunny for the June Club Run. Armed with
a set of questions to answer enroute, we found our way in the misty rain to our first stop at Wainuiomata school and their delightful museum. It was back to school for some, as we learned about the founding of Wainuiomata and the relevance of water to that story. Not that we needed further involvement with water, given the weather, so we then moved off to the appropriatelynamed Sunbeam Museum. Organised by VCC Life Member Roger White, who really knows his Rootes product, we all ogled the Rapiers, an Alpine and even a Tiger which made up the gorgeous collection and most definitely brightened an otherwise wet day.
WELLSFORD-WARKWORTH
CHRIS HARVEY
We have enjoyed a good variety of events over the past few weeks. During a well-attended Club Night in May, Michelle McLean gave us an informative talk about her job as a Rescue Helicopter paramedic, explaining much more than
Beaded Wheels 59
Wellington: Alastair McCarthy fighting the wipers on a wet day, Wainuiomata.
Wellington: Phil and Pat Pearce’s Saab, Akatarawa Road.
Wellington: Roger White (left) explains the Sunbeam Tiger (Sunbeam Museum).
Wellington: Ford Model A of Terry Mathers, Akatarawa Road.
Wellington: Guest speaker John Brown has plotted the final trajectory of the Wahine, and explains what went wrong.
Wellsford Warkworth: Les Patterson’s Zephyr collection .
many of us knew about the service and those involved. We learned why it is often necessary for the chopper to hover so high above a rescue scene, as the downwash from the blades is capable of breaking trees and swamping boats. Michelle also gave us a refresher about the use of our defibrillator. This is an expensive piece of kit which we hope we never need to use. We had two very different excursions in June, the first to Evolution Sails near Matakana, where high tech carbon fibre
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
PASSING LANE In this column we acknowledge the recent passing of club members. Information is supplied to Beaded Wheels by VCCNZ Branch Secretaries.
60 Beaded Wheels
sails for yachts are made. While we were there sails for a 50-footer were being made in their vast shed with its mind-boggling computerised technology. In the past you took sailcloth and cut it down to size, now you start with carbon fibre threads and weave it up to size. Sailing is pushing the boundaries in many ways with the foiling SailGP catamarans and America’s Cup boats, and places like this show why New Zealand is right up with the play.
Apps, John Boyes, John Burt, Murray Butler, David Cadwallader, Harley Connor, Tony Gurney, John Jelley, Rayleen Ryan, Barry
Taranaki West Coast Bay of Plenty Wellington Hawke’s Bay Hawke’s Bay Central Otago Central Otago Southland
Wellsford Warkworth: Les Patterson’s Mark III Zephyr .
Our second excursion was a shed raid on Les Paddison’s collection of Zephyrs and Zodiacs. He has a special liking for the Mark I versions but there were also Mark II and III models in his immaculate shed, which they share with some John Deere tractors. This must be Z-Car Heaven.
Stieller, Pat Wills, Selwyn Wingfield, Winston
Taranaki Southland Otago
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