CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 78 YEARS
No. 390 October/November 2024
New Zealand’s Foremost Historical Motoring Magazine $8.95
“A BIT OF A WORKOUT!”
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TRIALS ACTION
MARKETPLACE BEHIND THE WHEEL VEHICLES FOR SALE OF A ‘71 VW BEETLE INCLUDING MG TF AND ‘54 STUDEBAKER ROADSTER
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
This image is another taken from one of the many glass plate negatives that were found by Barry Stevens some time in the late 1970s. Barry used to do maintenance work on the buildings that the McFarlanes owned around the vicinity of the Christchurch Square. Any further information available would be gratefully received. Previous images were published in Beaded Wheels 380.
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
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CONTENTS Issue 390 October/November 2024
FEATURES 8 10 26
Daffodil Rally for Cancer 2024
24
14 20 24
1927 Camping Tour
37
Marketplace
26
A Very Special Visitor Digby Young introduces his Vulcan to a new audience. The Art of Advertising John McDonald shares his passion for the art of advertising. Behind The Wheel – 1971 Volkswagen 1302S Beatrice Shilling obe Stuart Francis explores the achievements of this acclaimed English motorcyclist and engineer Camping Tour – A 1927 Road Trip Extracts from a period diary of travel in New Zealand. Rally Snippets 26
Daffodil Rally for Cancer 2024
29
Rosewill Trial - South Canterbury Branch
30
R’Oil Can Rally – Waitemata Branch
32
Balcairn Trial - Banks Peninsula Branch
48
33
Hadstock Field Tests- Banks Peninsula Branch
34
Annual Rally - Wanganui Branch
2024 National AGM Report including coverage of this year’s recipient of the John L Goddard Trophy
33
Hadstock
COLUMNS 5
From the Editor
43
Swap Meets & Rallies
6
VCC Branch Events
46
Trade Directory
7
Mailbag
47
President’s Message
7
Timelines
47
Commemorative Awards
9
Book Review
50
Festival Update
35
Polishing the brass
51
National Office News
36
Archivist News
52
Branch News
37
Marketplace
66
Passing Lane
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Incorporated
COVER Robert Trompetter pilots the Austin 7 while Evan Hamblin braces for an impending hazard, Balcairn Trial July 2024. Photo: John McDonald.
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 think that electric vehicles (EVs) will eventually have a place in the transport world. What could be better than a little EV runabout for doing those shopping trips around town and even to slightly further afield – for a coffee perhaps? And no petrol costs. Not much help to the world’s pollution issues though. However, I don’t think they will spell doom for internal combustion engines (ICE) just yet. Here is a sprinkling of headlines taken from the Telegraph UK during the first part of this year: Profits at Mercedes plunged due to plummeting sales of its new EV range. Porsche abandoned sales targets for EVs amid declining customer demand. Ford loses nearly $50,000 on each EV sold, while Tesla’s profits
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
dropped significantly.
ability to manufacture almost everthing that you use on a daily basis. Think computers, clothing, cars, and everything made with plastic and other composites. We would be back to the stone age, living in caves. Come to think of it, wouldn’t life be much simpler if that were the case? I’m off now, out for a hunt to find something we can eat!
There are plenty of other headlines of a similar nature and I think we can take from this that the science is not yet good
enough or robust enough or safe enough (think fires) for EVs to flourish just yet. I’m sure their day will come once these major issues are sorted. Even so, I think the ICE technology will be with us for some time yet. Most readers will remember the days in the 1980s and ‘90s when all the talk was about “Peak Oil”. This was in relation to the fact that it was considered back then that we were using oil up so fast that we were past the peak of availability, and we were on the downhill slope to running out of the stuff! When was the last time you heard anyone using that term over the last 20 years? In my case – never! Now we find out that there seem to be oil reserves aplenty and science is still looking at the big picture for oil extraction. However, we do need to consider what we could use as an alternative for without oil and its derivatives we would lose the
Correspondence & Editorial
Subscriptions
Copyright Information
Battery manufacturers like Germany’s Varta are facing severe losses, with shares down 70% in a month. The EV industry faces overcapacity, high costs, and diminishing consumer demand. Political investments in EVs, such as EU’s €80bn in the Green New Deal, are under scrutiny for wasteful spending. The Biden administration’s substantial subsidies and grants for EVs in the US are criticized as inefficient use of taxpayer money Economists warn that political interference risks creating market overcapacity and economic losses in the EV sector.
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Kevin Clarkson Editor Beaded Wheels
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 DECEMBER/JANUARY
Editorial Copy 29 October 2024 • Advertisements 10 November 2024
Beaded Wheels 5
VINTAGE CAR CLUB BRANCH EVENTS
Marlborough Branch Daffodil Rally for Cancer. Photo Linda Laing.
OCTOBER
2 South Otago 5 E. Bay of Plenty 5 Gore 5 Manawatu 5 Waikato 5-6 Otago 6 Gisborne 11-13 Canterbury 12 Southland 12-13 Manawatu 13 Ashburton 13 Central Otago 13 Nelson 13 Wairarapa 14-18 C. Hawke’s Bay 16 E. Bay of Plenty 16 Waikato 17 North Otago 18-19 Marlborough 18-21 Hawke’s Bay 19 Far North 19 North Otago 19 Otago 19-20 Auckland 19-20 Banks Peninsula
Wednesday Run Te Aroha Cruise P60 Run Swap Meet Motorcycle Run Dunvegan Rally Navigator’s Trophy Run Swap meet PV & PW Rally Motorcycle Rally Follow the Leader Rally Weekend Run Gymkhana Skills Rex Porter Rally Taranaki Tour Midweek Run Wednesday Wander Mid Month Run Biennial Rally Blenheim Safari Run Dunny Run Teapot Rally with Waimate Night Rally Hunua Spring Tour Gebbies Pass/Little River Hillclimbs 19-20 Canterbury M/C Girder Fork Rally 20 Canterbury OCBC 20 E. Bay of Plenty Club Run 20 Taupo Chairman’s Run 20 Waikato Luncheon & Badge Presentation 20 Waitemata Willy Wonters lunch 20 Wanganui Sunday Run 25-28 North Otago National Commercial Rally 26-28 Manawatu Combined Branches Camp Out 26-28 South Canterbury Mount Cook Run 26 Wanganui City Centennial Parade 27 Bay of Plenty End of Month Run 30 North Otago Motorcycle Run
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
31 Ashburton 31 Central Otago 31 Otago
NOVEMBER
1-3 Northland 1-3 South Canterbury 2 Otago 2 Southland 2 Wellington 3 Ashburton 3 Bay of Plenty
Far North Tour Safari Weekend Taieri Tour Commercial Rally Annual Rally & Dinner Post 60-80 Run Car Boot Sale & Restoration Award 3 Canterbury All British Day 3 Wellington Waterfront Car Display 6 South Otago Wednesday Run 6 Wanganui Night Trial 9 Ashburton Commercial Run 9 Canterbury Veteran/Vintage Highland Games Display 9 Southland Arrowtown Motorcycle Rally 9 South Otago Clutha Rally 9 Waikato Veteran & Two Wheel Brake Rally 10 Auckland 100 Year Old Car Celebration 10 Banks Peninsula Hawkswood Hillclimb 10 Horowhenua Tararua Trundle 10 Wairarapa Gold Medal M/C Trial 11 Gore Ladies Run 12 Canterbury Annual Veteran Rally 14 North Otago Mid Month Run 16 North Otago Saturday Swap Meet & Victorian Parade 16 Wairarapa Gold Medal Motorcycle Rally 16-17 Manawatu Overnighter 16-17 Nelson Mystery Club Run 17 Canterbury OCBC 17 Central Otago Weekend Run 17 North Shore Club Run 17 South Canterbury Vintage,Veteran & Commercial Run
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 Host: North Otago Branch
6 Beaded Wheels
Midweek Run Thursday Muster Midweek Run
17 Waikato 17 Wanganui 20 Auckland 20 Waikato 21-16 E. Bay of Plenty 22-23 Auckland 23-24 Banks Peninsula 23-24 Hawke’s Bay 24 Gore 24 Wairarapa 27 North Otago 28 Ashburton 28 Central Otago 28 Otago 29 Bay of Plenty 30 Canterbury
Swap Meet Sunday Run Mid-week Tourer’s Run Wednesday Wander Inter-Branch visit to Gisborne & Mahia Annual Motorcycle Rally Wigram Revival Race Meeting Branch 60th Anniversary Josephville Hillclimb Mangatainoka Vintage & Classic Car Day Motorcycle Run Midweek Run Thursday Muster Midweek Run Christmas Party Annual Motorcycle Rally
DECEMBER
1 Canterbury 1 Manawatu
Vintage Annual Rally Christmas Party & Service Awards 1 Waikato Motorcycle Run 1 Wairarapa Mauriceville Fair 4 North Otago Christmas Party 4 Wanganui Restoration of the Year 7 North Otago Windsor Rally 7 Wanganui Christmas Parade 8 Central Otago Christmas Lunch 8 Gore Christmas Run 8 Nelson Santa Parade 12 Central Otago Thursday Muster 14 Far North Christmas Lunch 14 South Canterbury Christmas Party 15 Otago Christmas BBQ 15 Wairarapa Christmas Function 18 Waikato Wednesday Wander 19 Auckland Christmas Pot-Luck Dinner
JANUARY
1 Auckland New Year’s Day Run 1 South Canterbury New Year’s Day Fairlie
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 Host: Manawatu Branch
5-7 February 2025 National Veteran Rally Host: Marlborough Branch
18 –21 April 2025 National Easter Rally Host: Canterbury Branch
15-21 March 2026 Vero International Festival
MAILBAG Beaded Wheels reserves the right to publish, edit or refuse publication of any item submitted 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. PRE WAR MERCEDES
I work with a mainly European group researching pre war Mercedes. Just emailing you a picture in the faint hope someone remembers the car and knows anything about it. I vaguely remember reading about this car in a 1950s/60s rally in a old edition of Beaded Wheels. One of the photos can’t be New Zealand if the architecture is considered but they are New Zealand number plates. JQ would be early 1980s. I have also
discounted all the Southward’s Mercedes since they have vastly different coachwork. If anyone is interested in pre war Mercedes Benz I have records for all the other NZ cars and hundreds more Timothy Russell +64 021 253 9684
GREAT SERVICE
Just a short note of thanks for your excellent service as I was able to sell my Austin 7 in a recent edition of Beaded Wheels. As a point of interest, the Austin 7 was purchased by an Englishman who started his engineering career working on designing Austin parts in the Austin Factory in England 70 plus years ago! David Scott Beaded Wheels Subscriber
TIME LINES 1904/
120 YEARS AGO
VETERAN VEHICLES
Why were Darracqs so popular in New Zealand? Apparently, Darracqs were cars fit for a King, now King Edward was using one. Agents Skeats and Bockhaert, claimed Darracqs possessed perfect control and reliability, well proven on Auckland’s rough and hilly roads. One had been used for almost 12 months by one of the leading doctors. As a result, 14 Auckland gentlemen ordered Darracqs. An 8hp model cost £250 to £275. A twin cylinder 9hp was priced from £350 with the top of the range 12hp costing up to £450.
1924/
100 YEARS AGO
VINTAGE VEHICLES
Buick promised that “Every weekend is a holiday whether it’s a trip to the mountains or forest, quick, straight runs to the sea or days with the rod or gun. What better companion could you have than this sparkling Buick Sports Six priced from £500.” Other Buicks available from Eclipse Garage, Oxford Street Levin were the four-cylinder range priced from £395 up to £825 for the six-cylinder seven seater sedan.
1949/
75 YEARS AGO
PW VEHICLES
Scandal as the Government, which had promised cars to returned servicemen, failed to deliver any. Eight makes were available — Austin A40, Ford Anglia or Prefect, Hillman Minx or Humber 80 or Vauxhall 12hp or 18hp. Turned out a lot went to a second group — taxi drivers, mail delivery and doctors. But most went to company managers and civil servants, some of whom didn’t need a car but used them as personal cars. There was “no comment” from the minister.
1974/
50 YEARS AGO
P60 VEHICLES
It was a tough year for the British car industry and even the advanced, Harris Mann styled, MG Magna — re-named Triumph TR7 - got a hostile reception from the TR6 lovers. Strikes, quality problems and the lack of a soft top version made the B/L slogan “The shape of things to come,” the butt of ridicule. Finally came good with the V8 option and a convertible version selling 115,000 units, more than the TR6.
1994/
30 YEARS AGO
P80 VEHICLES
“It drove straight from the drawing board into production,” is how Vauxhall described their highly original Tigra coupe. Looking unlike anything else on the market, Vauxhall had 63,000 orders at launch. Pricing was sharp at £11,000 for the 100mph 89bhp 1.4 litre model or £13,000 for the 104bhp 1.6 litre, both with 16-valve heads.
Developments in the motoring world this month in history. Compiled by Graeme Rice QSM
Beaded Wheels 7
A Very Special Visitor Words and photos Digby Young Early in May I had the pleasure of hosting Jennie Hampson, the great granddaughter of Joseph Hampson, who, along with his brother Thomas, started the Vulcan Motor Co in Southport United Kingdom, producing their first car in 1899. Jennie lives in Sydney and made contact to “look at my car and discuss Vulcans.” Mine was the first Vulcan she had looked at closely and the first she had sat in. Considering there are two I’m aware of, and probably more in Australia, I felt quite honoured. I guess the get together was a little like a first date, getting to know each other, and as it turned out we had both worked in the rest home industry. It was interesting listening to the Australian approach and comparing notes. The lead up to this visit was an article about my visit to
Southport UK in 2019 including a tour of the Vulcan factory prior to it being demolished mid 2020. Stand Up For Southport, the local newspaper, ran a story on the Vulcan factory building and its successive occupiers over the years. While producing vehicles they employed 700 plus people from around the area. A request was made for any interesting articles or photos. I thought my visit and car fitted the bill and emailed them. The response was immediate and a feature article was written. “Classic car enthusiast flew 11,468 miles from New Zealand to Southport”. This was then online, including photos of my car. The first response came from David Hales, Registrar of the Vulcan Register in the UK. He was a mine of information on my model and a little on the company. After that another great great granddaughter, who lives in Eastbourne UK made contact. She may be coming to New Zealand in December. Back to Jennie’s visit — the idea for the trip was to visit relatives in Katikati, then pay a visit to see my car and maybe glean some information on her family involvement with the company, which was difficult as most information I have came from the internet. However, while in the UK I was given a small treasure trove of information headed up “Gleanings from Southport Sources…” which fitted the bill. Also Vulcan workers names and addresses forwarded to me by Professor Ian Miller, University of Salford in Manchester, who had done an archaeology survey of the Vulcan factory building before and during the demolition. A lot of vehicle manufacturers made use of existing buildings which were poorly lit and not designed for vehicle construction. The Vulcan building, which opened in 1907, was purpose built, workshops on the sunny side with sawtooth style roofing giving plenty of light for workers. The 24 hours together went quickly and over a coffee at Napier Airport we agreed the visit had been beneficial to both of us. Since the visit there has been a flurry of emails to Jennie in Sydney.
s Jenny Hampson at the wheel of Digby Young’s Vulcan.
8 Beaded Wheels
BOOK REVIEW Kiwis at Speed New Zealand’s Motor racing Legends tell their story. By Steve Holmes Hard cover, 245 x 215, 256 pages ISBN 978-1-98-853-815-8 Publisher, David Bateman Ltd. RRP $59.99 Reviewed by Kevin Clarkson Motor racing in New Zealand is, for many, a hobby but a significant number do go on to higher honours in the motor racing world. For the hobbyist it can simply be about building the car or racing at local meetings. The desire to compete is always there and a great deal of fun can be had while using up some lovely internal combustion engine fuel! Because of the enthusiasts the sport has been able to flourish here, and it was the local heroes who continue racing and keep us on the sideline entertained.
this book and drivers are well covered with a comprehensive history of their racing exploits. That is what makes this book such a good read. The book features drivers from over the last 40 years, including Andy Buchanan, Brett Riley, Dave Simpson, David Oxton, Gary Pederson, Gary Sprague, Graham Baker, the Halliday bothers, Jack Nazer, Jamie Aislabie, Leo Leonard, Ray Williams, Reg Cook, Steve Dymand and Warwick Mortimer. Steve Holmes is a New Zealand writer and motorsport historian who has written for various New Zealand and Australian car magazines for over 20 years. He has also published many books on cars and motorcyles. This book is a must for those interested in New Zealand motorsport.
INSTRUMENT REPAIRS Experienced expert technician available to refurbish or repair your automotive and marine instruments
This book celebrates the heroes of New Zealand motorsport. The stories are candid, and Steve has included it all, be it successes, failures and the joy and heartache they faced along their journey. Steve talks to each driver and goes into incredible detail in
Have you got a story worth sharing? 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 or 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 Our lucky winners of the Beaded Wheels caps for this issue are Kevin Mercer and Heather Cheer.
Bruce Chaytor Ph 021 631 700 or Nicolette Prangley 021 166 8374 nap.chaytor@gmail.com 5 Gibbs Place, Kinloch RD1, Taupo 3377 Beaded Wheels 9
THE ART OF ADVERTISING Words John McDonald
One of the few repeatable pastimes of my adolescence was invading every local new car franchise in Christchurch and coming away with a brochure or two on the latest model. Some dealers were more generous than others in this regard, Hutchinson Motors (Ford) being particularly inviting by having two large unattended racks of brochures, upon which a mate and I swooped regularly. The handful taken was in direct proportion to any hovering salesman…..
Dominion Motors in Gloucester St were also generous suppliers of free literature, and our appreciation of their products (Riley, Morris, MG, Rolls-Royce) and quality of their publications ensured we visited on a frequent basis. Alas this did not result in acquiring any literature wearing the iconic pantheon grille. My burgeoning collection was stored under my bed in a large box. Unlike a real car, catalogues and brochures don’t require warrants of fitness, registering, or petrol, all helpful factors to a impecunious teenager. Following marriage this box accompanied me (and wasn’t stored under the bed), remaining undisturbed for a good 40 years. The main collection period of the early ‘60s seemed to herald a transition in advertising where the catalogues, traditionally illustrated by artists’ impression, were being phased out in favour of items utilizing glossy photographs. It was also prior to the stringent advertising standards we see today, with a proliferation of illustrations using what is quaintly termed “artistic licence”. Most blatant would be the miniature occupants luxuriating in the vastness of their new Austin A35 saloon. BMC were undoubted masters of the airbrush during this time, regularly using the same illustration from the outgoing model,
10 Beaded Wheels
▲ Artistic license to the fore as demonstrated with this image detailing the cavernous interior of the Austin A35.
with the additional changes (sometimes extensive) airbrushed in. The 1962 and 1965 MG Midget brochures show changes laboriously inserted to the wheel rims, door handles, windscreen, quarter lights, side windows, etc, when one wonders why completely new photographs were not taken. Mentioning MG again, the artistic input from Maurice Conley and F Gordon Crosby was used to dramatic effect in several of their early publications, with the 1936 MG two litre example epitomizing the romance of the open road so well. The four occupants are being swept urgently along a country road despite the appearance of excessive positive camber on the front wheels. The flowing lines of the car are brilliantly captured, the suggestion of speed giving further impetus to the MG slogan “Safety Fast”. Artistic merit is my main criteria for brochure collection, not necessarily the car itself. That’s why there is a special fondness for the item issued in 1953 for the Standard Eight. At best the car was basic family transport, but the sales material would do justice to a car three times the price. The lack of an opening boot compartment is nicely sidestepped by describing the aperture as “completely water and dust proof”, and illustrations beautifully prove capacity more than doubled when the rear seats were folded, additionally,
one could add, along with one’s back when extracting heavy items from its depths. Similar artistry is found in Volkswagen brochures of the same period, this time by Bernd Reuter whose signature fittingly accompanies his work. And that’s another bonus of collecting advertising material, learning more about the artist themselves. Reuter was highly regarded in the car advertising world from 1926, illustrating brochures for Adler, Auto-Union, Hansa, Graham-Paige, Lincoln
The lack of an opening boot compartment is nicely sidestepped by describing it… as “completely water and dust proof” Beaded Wheels 11
▲ The advent of commerical photography saw the specialisation of the commercial advertising artist lose out to this more economical option from the mid ‘60s onwards.
and Opel amongst others. Most have never heard of him, yet his work was of major influence in Germany and abroad. Reuter has masterfully exaggerated the unique curved lines of the Beetle, at a time when those same lines were regarded as somewhat odd because they were different. In contrast the 1923 Hupmobile brochure for the Model R relies mainly on the use of black and white photographs, with a solid colour background for relief. Its small physical size belies the comprehensive 31 page content. As an example, the description of pistons covers the material, weight, bearing surface limit, expansion, design, balance, and so on. Highly relevant then, when an owner often undertook more complex repairs. Other components are similarly addressed and illustrated, which can be most helpful during a restoration project. One would assume a manufacturer would take great care to show their product in the most favourable light. Whether or not this happened with the Austin Healey 100/4 brochure cover car is debatable, as a glance at the sill and lower door lines show the driver’s door is somewhat proud. Today any restorer turning out such a result would not be paid nor last long in business. There’s a tendency to forget it wasn’t until the Japanese cars of the early 1970s arrived, that fit and finish took a great leap forward. Today these hard copy brochures are almost a thing of the past. Somehow having all the information in colour, on a screen, in your home, and on demand, doesn’t have the same sense of achievement and daring we experienced to further our interest 60 years ago. I mean, just how many brochures could you stuff down your jersey and nonchalantly exit a dealership?
12 Beaded Wheels
½
–
Beaded Wheels 13
HIN BE
D THE WH EE L
n’s) (and Bronwy ^
IAN AND MARILYN MCKINLAY’S 1971 VOLKSWAGEN 1302S
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY Words and photos Greg Price
14 Beaded Wheels
How’s this for a novel idea? Rather than buy your daughter her own car, sell your classic Volkswagen (VW) to her, who then stores it at your place, and ‘acquire’ it back when she’s done with it some 20 years later! Way to go, eh? What is it about VWs (aka ‘Bugs’) that makes them so attractive and sought after to so many people? I dunno, but my attraction to and appreciation of them goes back to the early 1960s. Firstly, a school chum’s father used to work at Five Star Motors (VW dealer) in Auckland’s New North Road, and his dad would visit him driving one of the latest models. Secondly, my godmother (Aunty Rhoda) used to travel to Germany and buy brand new ones and eventually bring them back to New Zealand – the last example of which I got to drive, before she headed home in it to Rotorua, having picked it up off the Auckland Wharf! Unfortunately, on her way home on that occasion, on a long straight stretch of road north of Hamilton, some idiot coming in the opposite direction left his overtaking manoeuvre too late and collided head-on with her. Today, the car would have been written off, but back then, because it was German assembled, and virtually brand new, (albeit just two years old) it was repaired. Aunty Rhoda never went to Germany again after that! From memory, this had been her third such purchase, and was the latest 1500 version. Would you believe there was even one taken to the South Pole — well, Antarctica, actually. In more recent times, my wife Karen and I owned a low ownership, low mileage and over-serviced red 1971 VW 1600, (with white-wall tyres, of course!) but we sold it postearthquakes while it was still undamaged. I regretted that decision as soon as it departed on the transporter to points South, thus I got to envy the McKinlays who still had their cream 1971 1302S, albeit their example was the one with the larger front bonnet. One of the McKinlay’s other classics was the subject of a BTW back in 2017, it being an Austin 16/6 Burnham Saloon, which avid readers might recall, had daughter Bronwyn doing her studies in the roomy back seat area! Thus, when Editor Kevin suggested their Bug might be a candidate for a Behind The Wheel (BTW), I whole heartedly concurred. But first, for those of you who don’t know much about the history of this marque, I’ll try to keep it short and simple.
HISTORY OF THE VOLKSWAGEN According to Wikipedia (which isn’t always correct, I might add!), the Volkswagen Beetle was a small car produced by the German company Volkswagen from 1938 to 2003. One of the most iconic cars in automotive history, the Beetle is noted for its distinctive shape. Its production period of 65 years is the longest of any single generation of automobile, and its total production of over 21.5 million is the most of any car of a single platform. The Beetle was conceived in the early 1930s when the leader of Nazi Germany, Adolf Hitler, decided there was a need for a people’s car — an inexpensive, simple, mass-produced car — to serve Germany’s new road network, the Reichsautobahn. The German engineer Ferdinand Porsche and his design team began developing and designing the car in the early 1930s. The result was the Volkswagen Type 1 and the introduction of the Volkswagen brand. Volkswagen initially slated production for the late 1930s, but the
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outbreak of war in 1939 meant that production was delayed until the war had ended. The car was originally called the Volkswagen Type 1 and marketed simply as the Volkswagen, but it was not until 1968 that it was officially named the Beetle. Volkswagen implemented designations for the Beetle in the 1960s, including 1200, 1300, 1500, 1600, 1302 and 1303. In the late 1970s and ‘80s, Japanese automakers began to dominate the market, which contributed to the Beetle’s declining popularity. Over its lifespan, the Beetle’s design remained consistent, yet Volkswagen implemented over 78,000 incremental updates. These modifications were often subtle, involving minor alterations to its exterior, interior, colours, and lighting. Some more noteworthy changes included the introduction of new engines, models and systems, such as improved technology or comfort. If you want to know even more than this thumbnail sketch, then ask Mr Google.
HISTORY OF THE MCKINLAY’S VW The original owner was a lecturer at Canterbury University, who had bought it new from the factory in Germany in 1971. Factory extras were high backed seats and a padded dash. His wife being from Holland saw them initially take it there, where it seemingly did not get used much until the two years were up, and then they brought it back to New Zealand with just 1250 kms on the clock. Import restrictions at the time necessitated
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overseas ownership for two years. Often such purchasers would park the car up overseas, return to New Zealand, and then return to the overseas destination and uplift the car. This was common practice for those who aspired to American car ownership. It was imported in to New Zealand in 1973, and subsequently sold to the McKinlays in 1976, with just 30,000k on the clock. It became their everyday car. In 1983 while on holiday at Hari Hari, South Westland, they did a short bushwalk with their friends, whose car had broken down. When they returned to the car, they were surprised to encounter a bus load of tourists (fellow bushwalkers) waiting for them. After putting their gumboots in the VW’s front boot, the four adults, together with the six children (aged 12, 11, 10, 9, 8 and 5) plus the Labrador, piled in to the car and drove off – to the applause of the other tourists! To quote Marilyn, “Great memories in a great car”. Only in a VW, eh? In 1990, daughter Bronwyn ‘took it over’ (aka “I need a car, folks, can I use yours?”) and she used it to commute to work and university. Upon departing Christchurch for Auckland in 2000, the VW was laid up in the garage until 2021, when they started looking for a classic sports car, someone queried what was wrong with the VW? Good question! Nothing really, so a full mechanical overhaul was carried out, and it hit the road once again in August that year.
It still sports its original paintwork (Rich Cream) but is showing a few signs (read paint chips, and duct tape on the seats) of its participation in various journeys. The mechanical rebuild target was the Vero International Rally in February 2022, and subsequently they have attended the Dunedin Taieri Tour (2022) and more recently the National Easter rally in Nelson earlier this year. This wasn’t their first VW either. In 1971, they bought a dark green 1961 1200 VW (sans whitewalls!) specifically for ‘the under developed sandy roads to their home at Cape Reinga Lighthouse station’ – another story there in itself? Also in 1971, the McKinlays drove that VW from Cape Reinga to Christchurch while on 28 days of compulsory leave, (to utilise some free family accommodation) with two children and a baby, plus a Labrador dog on board! It was reportedly a tight fit! That one was sold in 1973-74, so when they decided that they wanted another, the ‘bug’ as it were was already in place.
In the 1960s when it became clear that dogs (as a means of transportation) were on the way out down there, and the only motorized alternatives were expensive tracked vehicles, one Roy McMahon, who had been appointed in December 1962 to lead a year-long expedition for the Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition (ANARE) saw an opportunity when it came time for him to choose what vehicles to take to Australia’s Mawson Station. McMahon went to Volkswagen of Australia and asked for a free car. McMahon knew that an Antarctic Volkswagen would be a great PR opportunity for VW’s new Australian-built Beetles, and they decided to let McMahon pick a Ruby Red sedan off the production line. In less than three months and with only a few hundred miles on the odometer, the car unloaded off of the icebreaker Nella Dan onto Antarctica, where it was immediately dubbed “the Red Terror.”
Since the Bug was air-cooled, it had no coolant to freeze, though it needed kerosenethin oil to stay lubricated in the -62°F temperatures in which the car drove. The only modifications to prepare the car were the standard changes VW gave their cars for Northern Europe and a set of “Antarctica 1” plates. Aside from having to straighten out the doors every so often, the only trouble the car had in its 12 months and almost 1,500 miles on Antarctica was that the frame head where the front torsion bars are attached to the floor pan regularly cracked over the wind-rutted ice, snow and exposed rock that defined its driving environment. But enough of these cold hard facts!
THE PHOTO SHOOT Despite my best planning, the weather was overcast and quite dull for the usual photoshoot at the McLeans Island Cutler Park. The Canterbury Branch’s newly restored phone box (thanks to Shona Clarkson – Editor Kevin’s missus!) was the backdrop. I was hoping for the ever elusive cover shot, thus the first batch of pics were taken in portrait mode, but when I came to download them, I initially
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wondered what the red arrow was at the bottom of each shot. Upon magnifying the pictures, the ‘red arrow’ turned out to be the phone box, when viewed in landscape format! Phew! The photos depict a ‘what you see is what you get’ – in other words, a very useable classic!
THE TEST DRIVE The VW has limited instrumentation, and early versions didn’t even have a petrol gauge! Running out of petrol was indicated by a cough and splutter from the rear of the vehicle (where the motor is!) whereupon you bent forward and turned on the reserve petrol tap under the dashboard! Eventually, VW installed a petrol gauge which, on the McKinlay example, is cleverly incorporated into the speedometer. The gear change format is on the lower part of the dash and depicts four forward gears with reverse being over to the left, passenger side, necessitating care lest one grab the passenger’s knee by mistake (“Of course it won’t go into gear! That’s my knee you’re shifting!”). Exiting Cutler Park with its landscape tree roots acting as judder bars across the driveway, reminds me why McKinlays opted for a VW when they were in the Far North, as they were barely noticeable. Once out on to McLeans Island Road, I accelerated through Ian McKinlay competes for eye-catching photo subject with the red arrow!
the gears and headed in the direction of Orana Park. There is something about the flat four boxer engine sound emanating from the rear of the car. Don’t ask me to explain it as it’s just something special that VW (and Porsche) owners will be familiar with, and is part of the attraction of these cars. Acceleration was smooth, yet not wheel-spinningly significant, so one is unlikely to fall foul of the local constabulary while out cruising. While Ian has added a cushion for extra height/comfort to the driving position, this did not detract from an otherwise enjoyable, albeit brief, drive. Once at Orana Park, I executed a U-turn (not one of my infamous handbrake turns, as I couldn’t remember where the handbrake was!) and headed back to Cutler Park. I cannot remember if the car heater was on, but I wasn’t cold. VWs do have very effective heaters providing that the various hoses are not perished or non-existent. My only criticism was the absence of white wall tyres, but then, not everyone likes them, do they? Once back at the park, it was time to check out the various oddities of this VW. As mentioned earlier, the hood (or bonnet) is of the bulging variety, which was one of the 78,000 incremental changes over the years, in this case to facilitate the alternate placement of the spare wheel, from directly in front of you when you lift the hood, to beneath the boot floor, which in turn allows for more luggage. The fuel tank is accessed via a panel on the front driver’s side, which in most cases should eliminate people driving away from the petrol station with the filler hose still in the car! As mentioned earlier, there are some visible stone chips on the front guards and in a couple of places, some duct tape has been utilised to minimise further dilapidation of the seat upholstery.
Optional extra cushion.
Not every model had these vents.
‘S’ for swell.
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Smart door cards.
Having said that, a good old ‘cut and polish’ would still elicit a nice shine from the original paint work.
OTHER GARAGE STABLEMATES Ian and Marilyn also have a 1920 AJS 780cc V Twin motorcycle with original factory side chair, which I understand has quite a vicious kick start! (The motorcycle, not the side chair!) This AJS is also well known on VCC rallies over many years. As an aside, I once had a 1953 Panther with a similar vicious kick start that would effectively fire you across the yard if you got it wrong!
One instrument only.
IN SUMMATION Overall, this is still a very practical classic car, in that Volkswagens have much worldwide historical significance. I can fully understand why the McKinlays opted for this as a practical alternative to their magnificent Austin 16/6 Burnham saloon, for those Club runs. Would I own another one? In a heartbeat! I grew up around cars, motorcycles and scooters, starting with Austin 7s and Morris 8s. Significant milestones in the hundreds of vehicles that have graced my garages over time included a 1959 Cadillac Fleetwood (owned over 16 years) and currently two Mk 1 Zephyrs (a convertible and a sedan) owned for 46 years and 51 years respectively. I like anything with wheels especially if it has whitewall tyres! The wish list still includes an E-Type Jaguar. What I can’t get to own I like to write about. Greg Price
Red panic button. Made in Germany tag.
Brown duct tape unavailable.
SPECIFICATIONS (per Wikipedia, and others I made up!) Engine: Rear-engine, 1500cc, Petrol Gearbox: 4-speed manual Body Style: 2-door saloon Suspension: Yes, underneath the floor pan Tyres: Black, with tread (non-whitewall!) Production: 1938-2003, number made 21,529, 464! Class: Yes, lots of it Wheelbase: 94.5 – 95.3 inches Length: 160.6 – 163.0 inches Width: 60.6 – 62.4 inches Height: 59.1 inches Overall rating: AE (awesome, eh?) Fair wear and tear.
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BEATRICE SHILLING OBE Words Stuart Francis
Beatrice ‘Tilly’ Shilling was born in 1909 in Hampshire. She was a pioneering motorcycle racer, a pioneering female engineer and played significant roles in wartime and post war aeronautical and aerospace engineering. She also played a key role in solving a major operational problem with the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine.
Shilling racing her Norton 500cc motorcycle.
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Tilly ^
Born to Edwardian upper middle class parents, it was unthinkable at the time that a young woman would become a professional engineer. Her life was changed beyond recognition by WWI. As the war progressed, the growing shortage of men saw women taking on men’s roles in industry, engineering, public services and management. The women were initially given low level manufacturing and service jobs, but an increasing number of educated women climbed the ladder. At war’s end the returning men demanded their old jobs back and expected women to return to domestic duties. It’s difficult to put the Genie back in the bottle, and a hard-core of women wanted to continue in engineering so they formed the Women’s Engineering Council (WEC) in 1919. Beatrice’s interest in things mechanical started from a young age. Owning a Meccano set, she created a spinning wheel that won a Meccano national prize. Her fascination with speed was sparked at just 14 after buying a two-stroke Royal Enfield motorcycle, learning to ride, strip and repair the machine. She also became a dab hand at maintaining and shooting her father’s competition rifles. Her passion for mechanical items drove her to pursue higher education at Dorking High School, doing well in maths and science. Electrification of rural England was proceeding apace and opportunities were opening up for young engineers. The WEC sent a letter to all girls’ secondary schools outlining apprenticeship opportunities in electrical engineering. Beatrice applied and became involved in designing and fitting out power stations and power distribution networks. After three years she decided to take a degree in electrical engineering. With no scholarships available for women, WEC loaned her £1000 (a sizeable sum in 1929) for an honours degree in electrical engineering. In 1929 Beatrice and Sheila McGuffie became the first women ever accepted by Manchester University’s engineering department. Graduating in 1932, she then studied for a Bachelor and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, studying piston temperatures of twostroke diesels. Despite the recession she got a research post testing the effects of varying valve timing in supercharged single-cylinder engines. Aircraft engine companies made single-cylinder test engines before building a full scale engine. Rolls-Royce and Napier both provided engines. The work involved fabricating pieces of test equipment, she becoming very proficient, no doubt helped by her mechanical skills from working on motorcycles. While at university she bought a 1928 Matchless Model V2 Super Sports OHV 495cc single, competing in solo and sidecar classes in the Peak District. In early 1934 she purchased a second-hand Norton
Model 30, 490cc single overhead cam machine for £70, light years away from her Matchless. The Model 30 was the machine of choice for an aspiring racer, fast, handled well, relatively easy to work on, equally at home road racing, track racing, record setting and sprinting. Norton’s works racing machines were winning everything and production machines were not light years away from them. There was also a small group of engineers, based at Brooklands, who specialised in tuning these machines. A Model 30 could be made into a track racing machine by removing the road equipment, and lightened wherever possible. A special silencer, a “Brooklands can”, had to be fitted for races at the Weybridge circuit, and the front brake removed for outer circuit racing. Beatrice’s first appearance at Brooklands was on 14 June 1934 and after only three practice laps she came sixth in her very first race and third in her second race lapping at over 90mph. She won another newcomers race later on that day. She spent the next five years racing at Brooklands until the track was closed at the start of WWII. She was awarded her Gold Star for 100mph lap in a race in 1934 becoming the second of three women to receive one. Her track knowledge improved, increasing speeds and reducing lap times, culminating in a 106mph lap in 1935, the fastest ever set by a woman. Setting fast times was becoming increasingly challenging as the track deteriorated through the ravages of time, limited repairs and the difficulty of maintaining the fast upper portion of the circuit. Handicap races were very popular because of the very diverse field. The machines would be set off at different time intervals designed so all the riders crossed the finish line at the same time. The track timekeeper “Ebby” Ebblewhite created elaborate handicap records, which track regulars tried to circumvent. Beatrice competed in a number of handicap races and was the only woman to be given a scratch handicap on a par with the professional track riders. Beatrice did all her own tuning work and was very guarded about what she did to the Norton engine. However she did mention to a colleague about spending a lot of time working on the inlet tract length, shape and size. Beatrice had a distinct advantage over most of her racing colleagues because of her work on supercharged single-cylinder test engines. Beatrice studied engine performance under laboratory conditions using proper instrumentation and a dynamometer to measure power outputs. Her contemporaries could only judge power outputs by the seat of their pants or lap times. Beatrice’s boyfriend was George Naylor, who worked at Royal Aircraft Establishment and also raced at Brooklands. She refused to marry him until
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they rebuilt the engine and fitted a lightweight minimalistic aluminium sports car body. Over the next four years the car was developed into a very competitive racer. he won a Gold Star which he eventually achieved in 1938 (on her machine) and they married later that year. George was over 6ft tall to her 5ft 1 and nearly twice her weight, no doubt contributing to his slower lap-times. During the war George joined the RAF, flying a full tour in a Lancaster with Bomber Command. Over the winter of 1938/39 the Norton was totally rebuilt and fitted with a chain driven centrifugal supercharger of her design, probably influenced by her work on single-cylinder test engines. Centrifugal compressors are very efficient at high speeds and widely used in aircraft, they are however very inefficient at low speeds. Most racers used displacement blowers, like a Roots or Shorrock, which gave good boost from lower revs but are not so efficient.
The petrol tank was converted into a pressure chamber and a pressurised fuel tank installed behind it, making for a very long stretch from the saddle to the handlebars. The diminutive Beatrice couldn’t make the stretch but George’s greater reach allowed him to ride it. The modification was not a success and the only decent result achieved was when the supercharger was removed for a wet race in April 1939. Whether better results would have been achieved if WWII had not intervened, is open to conjecture. Beatrice joined the Royal Aircraft Establishment (Farnborough) in 1936, joining the engine section, as a Scientific Officer, working on carburettors, becoming an acknowledged expert. Beatrice and her boss designed and developed the RAE Hobson pressure carburettor which was eventually fitted to Bristol Hercules and Centaurus engines and Napier Sabres. The winter of 1939/40 was particularly cold and virtually all the major engines experienced starting problems. Beatrice and a colleague devised a series of measures including; diluting the cold oil with fuel, injecting special fuel into cylinders and adding booster coils to the ignition, which significantly reduced the problem. In March 1941, Beatrice tackled a lifethreatening problem that plagued fighter pilots during the Battle of France and Battle of Britain in 1940. The problem was the RR Merlin engine (fitted to Spitfires and Hurricanes) would cut out for a short time
An electrical engineering graduate from The University of Manchester, Beatrice Shilling, made a small adjustment to RAF fighter planes during WWII which transformed their performance and helped them to match the powerful Luftwaffe. She was later awarded an OBE for her work. Beatrice invented the RAE restrictor, effectively a small metal disc with a hole in the middle that fitted into the Merlin engine’s carburettor helping to limit fuel flow and prevent flooding at critical moments. After successfully testing the device it was quickly praised by Allied fighter pilots and soon entered service – and RAF folklore. Beatrice and her team visited frontline RAF fighter bases to fit the breakthrough restrictor before continuing work on developing a more substantive solution in the shape of the RAE Hobson injection carburettor. 22 Beaded Wheels
Source: Manchester.ac.uk
when subjected to negative G, (a violent nose down manoeuvre), just what you want when chasing or evading a Messerschmitt! The German Daimler Benz engines did not have this problem, they used direct fuel injection like a diesel engine. Initial investigations found the engine was cutting out because of fuel starvation and various methods of temporarily increasing fuel flow were tried, but failed. Beatrice’s analysis of the problem concluded the engine was initially cutting-out due to fuel starvation but was then immediately flooded with too much petrol causing another cut out. Under negative G the SU carburettor floats sunk allowing too much fuel to be forced into the carburettor by the fuel pumps. Beatrice devised the simple solution of fitting a flow restrictor, just slightly larger than maximum fuel flow, at the fuel input to the carburettor. Originally a thimble like device then just a simple washer. Beatrice’s solution significantly improved the situation, was easy to manufacture and could be fitted within minutes. Beatrice led a team to fit the restrictor. Beatrice’s modification, nicknamed “Miss Shillings Orifice”, was an excellent interim measure but did not fully cure the problem. It took SU another year to produce a major modification that improved the situation. It was eventually solved by fitting the US Bendix Stromberg pressure carburettor that injected fuel directly into the eye of the supercharger
(but only after a modification to fix a fuel metering problem that Beatrice spotted). Post-war Beatrice and George both competed in motorcycle trials events on a Tandon. A badly damaged knee stopped her competing in motorcycle events and their interest was moving onto racing cars. Beatrice was impressed with the pre-war dohc Lagonda engine but less impressed by the Lagonda’s heavy bodywork. Buying a well-used Lagonda Rapier at the end of the war, they rebuilt the engine and fitted a lightweight minimalistic aluminium sports car body. Over the next four years the car was developed into a very competitive racer. Between 1959 and 1962 they raced an Austin-Healey Sebring Sprite, usually at Goodwood Members’ Meetings, scoring a number of third places and winning one race. Their racing became more serious after buying an Elva 200 Formula Junior singleseater in 1961, before converting into a Mk VI sports car after a serious shunt. The couple continued to compete in a series of home-tuned high-performance cars for the next ten years, both surviving major accidents. In 1967 Dan Gurney sought her advice about an overheating problem with his Eagle Formula 1 racing car. Beatrice’s post-war career took on a number of diverse roles and projects at Farnborough. Moving onto cockpit pressurization and oxygen supplies for high flying jets. Her team designed solid rocket boosters and ram jets for missiles, which
FLORENCE BLENKIRON AND THERESA WALLACH The first woman awarded a Bemsee Gold Star was Florence Blenkiron. She received the accolade for lapping the Brooklands circuit at over 100 miles per hour in April 1934 on her her 500cc Grindlay-Peerless. Tilly Shilling, also achieved this award 1934, and the third woman rider to join the club was Theresa Wallach in 1939 on a borrowed 350cc Norton. Shilling and Wallach were known to each other through their membership of the Women’s Engineering Society (WES). Florence and Theresa Wallach met in 1934, and became firm friends. In 1935 the two successfully completed an eight month trip from London to Cape Town (via the Sahara Desert) on a Panther M100 outfit and trailer.
▲ Florence Blenkiron, born in 1905, was the
first woman to win a Bemsee Gold Star in 1934 at the age of 29. She began racing motorcycles at age 23 at Brooklands, entering a ladies race organised by Lady Malcolm Campbell in 1928. Her second race wasn’t until 1933 when she won a three lap handicap on the banked circuit. It was in 1934, riding her 500 Grindlay Peerless, she exceeded 100mph on the banked circuit to win her Bemsee Gold star.
▲ Theresa Wallach author of The Rugged Road (Panther Press, 2001) which documented the trail-blazing African adventure she undertook with Florence Blenkiron.
were incorporated into the Bloodhound missile. She was involved in the Comet investigation, considering whether overpressurisation caused the fuselage failure. She managed the liquid oxygen systems on the Blue Streak missile, built a bobsleigh for the RAF team and studied wet runway braking. The list of her achievements goes on and on, she even learnt to fly during the war! Awarded an OBE in 1949 for her wartime work, retiring in 1969 and awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Surrey that year. She died on 4 November 1990.
SUPERCHARGING SINGLE-CYLINDER MOTORCYCLE ENGINES Supercharging single-cylinder engines is notoriously difficult requiring a large pressure chamber between the compressor and engine to damp out the intake pulses (multi-cylinder engines are less affected). The other complication is whether to suck the mixture through the carburettor into the pressure chamber (leaving it full of explosive mixture) or blowing through the carburettor requiring the whole fuel system to be pressurized, difficult to achieve. Velocette spent over a year experimenting with their supercharged machine “Wifling Clara” before giving up, (the name came from noises the pressure chamber made).
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▼ The original 32 page diary recording the 1927 motoring holiday.
▼ Riverbed Camp at Tapawera.
CAMPING TOUR
A 1927 ROAD TRIP Words and photos Rob Turnbull Editorial committee member John McDonald spied a brief post on the VCC Facebook Group featuring some diary extracts from a 1927 camping trip. John contacted the contributor, Rob Turnbull, to see if the tales of that adventure (diaried by Rob’s grandparents) could be enjoyed by our Beaded Wheels readers.
Over 47 years ago I purchased a semirestored 1924 Oakland 6-54 tourer, my goal was to complete the restoration in time for the 1980 Rotorua International Rally. This was achieved thanks to a great deal of assistance from Auckland VCC member and Delage owner Max Jamieson. I subsequently discovered that my grandparents, John and Anne Pye of Rakaia, had also owned a brand new 1924 Oakland 6-54 tourer. Memories of this car survive through photographs and an original handwritten 32-page diary recording their 1927 motoring holiday in the South Island. I have this diary which was given to me by my Nana. Their journey took them from Rakaia, up the coast to Blenheim and Nelson, down the West Coast back to Rakaia. They were accompanied by their friend, Jack Allen, who owned the local garage. The photographs associated with the diary helped me with details I needed for my restoration and the diary, in part reproduced below, gives a fascinating insight into their lives at that time. 24 Beaded Wheels
“On Sunday morning 13 March at 9:30am we started on our fortnight’s holiday, everything being in readiness the night before, for a good hop off. Inside the car we carried our tent, blankets, food, and personal belongings, and on the footboard, all cooking utensils and, by Jack Allen left and John Pye right. the way, also a sugar bag containing potatoes and the bush. Monday morning 14 March broke onions. Not being securely tied, this we lost fine, so we were astir about 6am, cooked on the first stretch of road.” bacon and eggs for breakfast, boiled the billy The road north was described as in bad order, until Belfast when conditions improved. On reaching the Kaikouras, the travelling was a little more difficult, but the scenery much better. “By going slowly, we negotiated the hills safely, and arrived in Goose Bay about 6:30pm, after travelling 143 miles. We pitched our tent on the side of the road, sheltered by
and after enjoying a good meal we packed up our belongings and started on the last lap to Kaikoura township. Here we made a couple of private calls, purchased bread and fruit, filled up with seven gallons of Plume Motor Spirit @ 2/5 per gallon. After passing the Clarence River, now bridged, we went over and inspected the old wreck of the steamer Wakatu.
Paratitahi Tunnel on Kaikoura coastline.
Onward to Blenheim and Picton and several steep hills were encountered, we being obliged to travel in second gear quite a lot, there being quite a number of hairpin bends and narrow roads, and not safe for speeding. After passing the river into Marlborough, over a twin bridge, the railway passing over the top and other traffic directly underneath, the structure being a wonderful piece of work. Next morning following a walk round Picton we sent our first letter and Wire and purchased a few eatables, amongst them being a freshly caught fish. We then motored out to the Reservoir Reserve where we lunched, frying the fish, which was delicious. The cost of the fish was 2/- and it served two meals. Following the purchase of six gallons of Plume at 2/3 a gallon at Havelock we proceeded to Pelorus Bridge for a very wet overnight camp. Clearing conditions next morning assisted preparation for a Nelson destination. It is on this run that some stiff hill climbing is encountered, the Rai Saddle and Whangamoa Ranges to traverse. The road was a little greasy after the rain, and we struck one creek that was running high, and through not covering the radiator, the fan spread the water and stopped the engine. After five minutes we were able to pull ourselves out again. The Rai Saddle is first, and once you commence climbing you think that you will never get to the top, as a stranger on the road we could not to risk going quickly, on account of the narrow road and hairpin bends. Running in second gear, it takes a long time to reach the top”.
the rain, then erected our tent, and it was tea time again.” Thursday 17 March and a fine day dawned “We had a look round the main streets and in the Gardens, which were beautifully kept and we would have liked to have stayed longer, but couldn’t spare the time. After making a few more purchases of stores, and filling up with three gallons of petrol @ 2/7, we left for Motueka about 11:30am Travelling through Richmond we passed numerous large apple orchards, which we took particular notice of, but did not help ourselves. Reaching Tapawera about 5:30pm we decided to camp and found a good spot on the riverbed near the bridge with plenty of water and dry ground for our beds. This time Mrs Pye took charge of getting tea ready and dished up fried tomatoes, and chops, the tomatoes being fried in butter,
and we all enjoyed a hearty meal. After tea we walked across the bridge and through the small township, and on returning home we discovered a plague of earwigs.” Murchison was reached at 2.30pm the next day, “we filled up with five gals of petrol @ 2/9 gal; and although it was sold as Shell, it must have been a bad mixture, as it did not go as well as the Plume. We also purchased stores here and then set out on the run to Westport through the Buller Gorge, the scenery being the most wonderful and beautiful in our travels. Camping overnight near Lyell we saw two strange birds with beautiful plumage, afterwards by description, were told that they were native pigeons. The sandflies were bad in this part, but we got the Flit to work, which soon settled them, and we were not bothered afterwards.” Camp was struck at 9am next morning, and they continued toward Westport. “In places the road is very narrow and needs careful driving and on reaching Hawkes Crag (sic) there was a wonderful sight for the traveller. The road is hewn out of solid rock, with a sheer drop into the Buller River below. By this time, we had got used to the ‘hair raising’ bits and it did not disturb us, although at this particular point we kept to the left and did not exceed the speed limit of five miles per hour.” At Westport five gallons of petrol @2/3gal and stores were purchased, before seeking a suitable camping place. Heavy rain added to their difficulties, and “we had to trench around the tent, (thanks to the shovel we had carried with us in case of emergency).”
PART II NEXT ISSUE
Reaching Nelson they camped opposite Hanby Park: “We spread all our bed clothes out on the fence to dry, being a little damp after
Temporary Bridge over Larrys Creek.
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RALLY SNIPPETS
DAFFODIL RALLY FOR CANCER Wow people, what an incredible Daffodil Day for Cancer. “This is like the old ‘Telethon’ days all over again, love it!” said our national coordinator for the day, Kaaren Smylie, as branch updates rolled in. Final totals of funds raised for the Cancer Society are still coming in but the knock-on effect of free publicity for our club cannot be understated. A few of the highlights that we have heard of include: Wellington - tripled their donations received from previous years. The main sponsor for their event was Capital Ford. Nelson - 500 plus vehicles at their event. EBOP - 100 plus vehicles at their event. Gisborne - 100 plus vehicles attending. BOP - over 200 vehicles on display, their main sponsor for this event, and many more Daffodil Rallies to come — Lexus. Club Membership - Management Committee member, Murray Trounson, has reported several new memberships
Bay of Plenty members Graham and Helen Meredith.
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directly after Daffodil Rally for Cancer events were held ....and so the list goes on.... Coordinators, members, volunteers, sponsors, thank you all so very much for embracing with such enthusiasm again, this year’s campaign, all your efforts have certainly paid off.
t Bay of Plenty: Our Daffodil Rally for Cancer was a big day assisted by Lexus of Tauranga. Seen here with a suitably gold coloured new Lexus LBX are BOP Chairman Donn White, National Coordinator Kaaren Smylie with Sara from Lexus of Tauranga and local Coordinators Trevor and Raewyn Hughes. Photo Brian Pratt
Part of the Auckland display.
Northland: Run organiser, Roger Billing, really getting into the spirit of the day!
Auckland display outside Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple.
Canterbury Branch: Gathering the donations.
North Shore:Daffodil Day cars at Matakana.
Otago: Judy Winter helping with daffodil deliveries.
Canterbury Branch: Shirley and Bruce Shadbolt alongside their 1929 Reo with their trophy for winning Best Dressed Couple.
South Canterbury: Participants vehicles, Daffodil Rally, Caroline Bay, Timaru.
Waimate: Yellow was the colour of the day.
DRIVING OUR HISTORY
Beaded Wheels 27
AUCKLAND BRANCH Rather than having a rally for our National Day this year we chose to have a static display at the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple in Flat Bush, South Auckland. The display was open to the public. We shared advertising with the Temple team and it certainly got the word out. On the day their team shook buckets for us over the four hours, and were a
significant help to our members. Vehicles gathered early in the holding zone and were arranged in front of the Temple, there’s a circular drive that the cars parked around and the overflow went onto a grassed area. The display looked spectacular with Steve and Sue Keys’
gorgeous 1909 Maxwell front and centre. Rides on Angelique, our Charabanc, was a highlight for the public. I’m estimating that the team made about 20 fully laden trips around the 5-minute circuit. This was a spectacular day with a great result for the Cancer Society. We were very excited to hand over $6,500 to them last week.
MANAWATU BRANCH The Manawatu Branch Daffodil Day car show in Feilding attracted around 160 vehicles. All parts of the club were represented from vintage through to late model Mustangs and a number of motorcycles. Following the display, there was a short run back to the clubrooms where afternoon tea was provided by the branch. In total, just over $2,000 was raised for the local Cancer Society. Everyone enjoyed the day out and we were thrilled to see a couple of people express interest in becoming members.
1926 Chevrolet Cath and Glyn Clements commercial fitted the theme perfectly.
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Manawatu event organisers Annette and Ken Foot, beside their Humber 80.
Horowhenua members, Greg and Jane Oliver, brought along their 1938 Fiat 500 Topolino saloon.
Vehicles from Manawatu were joined by visitors from Wellington, Horowhenua, and the Hawke’s Bay.
ROSEWILL TRIAL Words Kevin Mercer, Photos Kevin Mercer, Andre Kraenzlin and Robert Trompter. After assisting with the Nelson Trial a few years ago, my wife suggested that it looked like fun, and I should build a trials special. This was achieved during Covid lockdown and we have participated at Reefton and regularly at Balcairn since. Returning to South Canterbury a bit over a year ago, discussion with the branch allowed us to start trials in the area. My passion for the Club, and our need to encourage young people to become involved, has led me to believe that we need to promote events in which a car can be built on a budget, and to create a bit of adrenaline for those younger prospective members. Having a member with a large farm and a love for vintage action type events, a location was quickly sorted. The first attempt in 2023 failed to gain good support, six cars entered and eight drivers (for those not familiar with the rules, we allow two drivers per car) but it started the bug and our host followed with the purchase of a suitable car (partly finished) from the Hamilton area, and was ready to roll. Keeping the pressure on the acquaintances I had made at other events, 2024 was
set to be well supported. The day started with 13 cars and 19 drivers and a frost that in places was at -6˚C, but with the sun on the horizon. This followed 35mm of rain earlier in the week, just to help the consistency of the mud. Entries came from Dunedin, West Coast, Christchurch and of course South Canterbury. The sections involved a mixture of deep water needing to be attacked at speed, mud, hill climb and what I feel was the section of the day which had most doubting they could get through. This required a high level of concentration and driver skill, but 11 of the 17 starters achieved the max 20 points. I think the biggest achievement was the realisation that such events would create interest from young entrants, with two local members in Model As and Tayler Milne from Christchurch, who had just passed her driving licence the week before. Well done Tayler for achieving 12th overall and being 2nd equal in the main hill climb event. Overall winner for the day was Allan Giles from West Coast Branch.
Tayler Milne with Dad Micheal, Austin 7 Scout.
“we need to promote events … to create a bit of adrenaline for those younger prospective members.”
Donald White in a spot of bother
South Canterbury Branch Chairman, Colin Hawke, crosses the first creek.
Beaded Wheels 29
THE WAITEMATA BRANCH 2024 R’OILCAN. Words Kevin Beesley, photos Jacqui Goldingham
There are vintage car runs that take you tootling through the suburbs, others that have you meandering in convoy between towns heading for a well ‘urned’ cuppa. There are events that have you bashing across farms and through streams, just because they are there – then there’s the R’Oilcan. It may take you on farm roads or forestry tracks. It will not take you tootling through the suburbs. It will take you briskly over many miles of back country roads less travelled. Pace and distance are R’Oilcan points of difference. You need get on if you want to get in before it gets dark. Move on, or respectfully, move over is the order of the day. Always ample time for a generous morning tea and lunch though. The 2024 event, very ably organised by Peter and Julie Benbrook, covered about 200 miles, meaning a 360-mile weekend jaunt for this entrant, much further for those stalwarts from out of Auckland. Following a glorious sunrise on 20 July, 23 R’Oilcan entrants plus back up vehicles assembled as directed at the Silverdale service station on Auckland’s northern motorway, a sure sign we were headed north this year. A couple of Sunbeams that usually participate were unable to join us but there were two other representatives of that marque in attendance. And five Rileys. Alvis, Hotchkiss, Buckler, Triumphs, Essex, MGs, Talbot, Austin, Alfa Romeo, Armstrong Siddeley, Ford Y and a Model A or two made up a colourful field. The calibre and vintage of the fleet is another R’Oilcan hallmark. Peter warned us of three things – lots of gravel, sunstrike and slippery roads. We hit the gravel within 14 miles of the start and, at a guess, it made up about 65% of the route. The neglected north offers plenty of choice for metal roads The Chairman’s Riley and Pete and Julie chose well. is on the road again. Sure, there were corrugations and occasional ruts but by and large the surfaces were very good and with due anticipation the roads could be taken at a fair clip. A previous week of dry, sunny weather meant that dust was more prevalent than the slush we usually encounter on what Trevor, experienced tyre man, praying is, after all, a mid-winter event. for success. Photo Neil Barnard
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Frosty, Kate Winterbottom & Josh Curry in granddad’s 1924 Essex roadster.
Sun strike was a major issue. It struck us in the morning as we headed north-north west, through Tahekeroa, Kaipara Flats, skirting Wellsford then eastwards to Tomarata for morning tea. It struck us in the afternoon on our way north-north east from Kawakawa to our end point at Waitangi. Visibility was further impacted by repeated flash fogging of the windscreen as we struck varying temperature zones alongside water courses and in shaded areas. This had drivers craning over and to the side of their windscreens trying to determine where the devil the road went. The R’Oilcan is renowned for catering to the inner person and this year lived up to gastronomic expectations. Tomarata Primary School laid on a wonderful morning tea and arriving entrants headed quickly for the bathroom, the soup, the sausage rolls, the sandwiches, then the sweets, generally in that order. Nothing quite like bouncing around in an open car for a couple of hours over bumpy roads in winter on top of your morning coffee to stimulate kidney function. Lunch was efficiently laid on for us by the Maungakaramea Sports Club, then we pressed on via Maungatapere, through Kawakawa to our digs, dinner and prizegiving at the Copthorne Hotel, Waitangi. Morley Faulkner, accompanied by his brother Piers was the unfortunate winner this year. Which means he is the organiser next year. Lucky Morley! Hard luck prize went to our Branch Chairman and fearless leader Rob Chapman who ran into a ditch not far from the end. “It was the black dog wot made me do it” claimed Rob. No, not that black dog - the one wandering aimlessly down the middle of the road at the same time as the sun struck the windscreen. There was wounded pride and bent number plate but no damage to either man or beast. The instructions were excellent. No one got lost. Everyone who started made it to the finish although one vehicle did succumb to PRSD (Post R’Oilcan Stress Disorder) Sunday, on the way home. The weather for Saturday, the day of the event, was perfect. We did get a little damp the next day. The view over the Bay of Islands in the late afternoon as we traversed the ridge line through the golf course on the final stretch into Waitangi, the colours, the play of waning sunlight on clouds and hills and water, was truly memorable.
Alex & Olivia Disher’s Ford Model Y Special . Harold and Dean Booth probe the low setting sun in the 1930 Riley 9hp tourer.
1936 Riley Kestrel Special of Steve & Megan Cranch.
Morning Tea Line up at Tomarata.
David Waterworth and Neil Waddel navigate Northlands rural roads in 1928 Model A.
No one knows what lies ahead. Rob Chapman & Colin Newburn in the 1931 Riley Special.
Beaded Wheels 31
THEY’RE AT IT AGAIN! Swamp dwellers, mud-lovers, call them what you will – our Banks Peninsula Branch members have resorted to two annual events to liven up the depths of long gloomy winter.
Words Don Gerrard, photos John McDonald
BALCAIRN TRIAL 7 July 2024 The annual Balcairn Trial was held in the driest conditions in years, so to compensate for the lack of grip, six courses were devised with a little more complexity to challenge the 26 competitors. Even so, although a number of clear rounds were achieved, the terrain got rugged at the ‘reservoir’, beaching the Dawber 1926 Pontiac resulting in a broken exhaust manifold flange. Down to the last stage at Jelfs Shelf to determine the final results and no one managed to clear the final hill, keeping the crew of the Land Rover Club busy with extractions. At the Ashley Hotel, trophies were announced after another successful hard-fought event, with Lance Baird taking home the Old Boot Trophy, dislodging Thomas Mauger’s grip after several years by just one point! Griffin Tucker secured third spot in his Austin 7 Special. CLASS WINNERS
Short wheelbase standard, Brad Govan, Austin Hawke Long wheelbase standard, James Palmer, Model A tourer Short wheelbase trials, Lance Baird, Austin 7 Special Long wheelbase trials, Harry Dawber, Pontiac
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Balcairn: Mike Lester and David Bright exiting marker 3.
Hadstock: Brothers Harry and William Dawber shared rare Pontiac Bonneville.
Hadstock Driving Tests: All concentration for Donald White, Model A.
Hadstock Driving Tests: A rare car these days, Michael Williams Citroen GS.
HADSTOCK DRIVING TESTS 11 August 2024
Hadstock Driving Tests: 3rd placed Jason Roberts, Austin 7 Hawke under official scrutiny. Balcairn Trial: Laurie Elder, Morris Minor, concentrating on the hazards ahead.
Balcairn Trial: Griffin Tucker, placed third overall.
A fine sunny day gave the 22 competitors excellent conditions to endeavour to get to grips, literally, with the very slippery surface from overnight rain. Four courses had been set, all requiring controlled speed but more importantly, the ability to accurately absorb and navigate instructions proving to be paramount. A bigger than usual vintage (Model A) contingent was encouraging giving the Austin 7 special brigade a wake-up call. New to the fun, Meg Pidgeon sharing the Kear example was soon slashing seconds off her times and Courtney Chamberlain serenely went about her work in the Nissan Skyline. Not to be outdone, father John exercised his very original ‘56 Chrysler 300 2-door coupe, and the Dawber brothers picked up the award for the most entertaining power-slides of the day in their 1965 Pontiac ‘aircraft carrier’. Importantly, the younger generation of drivers are really pressing for honours, Mark Cummings in his MX-5, learning all the tricks of the trade from grandfather Pat O’Connell, competing well in the MGA. However, at the business end, it was the specialist Honda trials car of Colin Hey claiming gold and the overall prestigious Cynthia Trophy. Just two points away in silver position was Brad Govan Austin 7 Hawke with Jason Roberts taking bronze. Beaded Wheels 33
WANGANUI ANNUAL RALLY Words and photos Ian Higgins This year’s Wanganui Annual Rally also incorporated our 70th anniversary as a branch of the VCC. Forty-five vehicles, ranging in years from 1928 to 1990, started at regular intervals from Wanganui’s Cornmarket Reserve adjacent to the Whanganui River on a fine but chilly Sunday morning. The morning run took entrants through a timed section from the start line, through city streets and out to the rural areas of Fordell and Mangamahu. Our valiant competitors journeyed through the lower part of the picturesque Turakina Valley Road including a metalled section which was in quite good condition and dust-free. Well, it was dust-free in the car we were travelling in thanks to well-sealed doors and windows! These winding back country roads must surely rank as some of the best VCC rally roads in the country. The Rangitikei town of Marton loomed where the timed section of the rally concluded. The route then took contestants onwards over the Rangitikei River bridge by the former quarry, a favoured spot for military
vehicle and car club enthusiasts. From here we were directed through the back of Feilding to Bunnythorpe, (this name always amuses me) finishing at the rural Kairanga School Hall for a lunch stop. All the way entrants were on the lookout for silent checks, indicated by the names of various car makes, appropriately mostly from yesteryear, on small roadside signs. This finished the competitive stage of the rally. The afternoon section had motorists journeying through the Rongotea district to Santoft and eventually back to Wanganui VCC Clubrooms via Okoia and Number 3 Line. The Annual Rally prizegiving and dinner and 70th Anniversary celebrations were held at the Wanganui Room at the racecourse, where eighty people attended. The overall winners of the rally were local members, Bryan and son Ashley Christie in their 1929 Ford Model A roadster. Congratulations to them and all the competitors. A very enjoyable rally over a great mix of roads with lovely scenery.
s Overall rally winners Bryan (left) and son Ashley Christie from Wanganui.
Winning car. 1929 Ford Model A roadster.
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POLISHING THE BRASS There have been a few veteran car movements around our country, notably with Barry Birchall in Auckland moving on his 1903 Model A Cadillac and the ex-Barry Roberts 1909 two-cylinder Rover. His Cadillac was sold new by Dexter and Crozier to a Nelson doctor, William Mackay. It was found in the early ‘50s by Dennis King who then sold it to Bernie Byars. Barry purchased it in 1980 and restored it over three years, finding little rust or wear.
1905 Ford Model F. Photo Alan Meridith.
Original body drawings were obtained from Cadillac USA and a Cambridge joiner did the woodwork. New wheels were required, along with a new radiator which was built in America. Barry has had many trouble-free motoring miles while it was in his ownership but had to downsize his stable when he moved to a smaller property. The Cadillac has returned to the Nelson area in the ownership of the Nelson Classic Car Museum.
s Auckland 1903 Model A Cadillac. Photo Barry Birchall.
s 1909 10/12hp Swift at 1984 Autorama Invercargill . Photo Paul Herron.
POLISHING THE BRASS Paul Herron paulandlynne@xtra.co.nz Ph 027 210 4131
In the deep south the 10/12hp Swift which was being promoted by Rushmore Motors has been sold to Daniel Smith for his private museum in Rangiora. This two-cylinder Swift was gathered up by Harry Latham before going to Past President Alastair McIntosh who completed its challenging restoration in 1975. Since Alastair’s ownership it passed through a couple of Southland branch members until recently sold. (see Beaded Wheels issue 106 for restoration story) Lynne and I have purchased the 1912 Ford Model T roadster from Robin Dickson’s widow,
Susan. Robin had purchased this car from Alan Sutton in Invercargill in the early ‘80s. We gave this car some much needed mechanical maintenance and freshened up its appearance in time for our friends to rally it at the recent National Veteran Rally, Anniversary Dunedin-Brighton Rally and the Arrowtown Golden Times Rally. I have been preparing Robin’s collection for sale and at the start we completed a deal for a 1905 Ford Model F which we are currently freshening up and attending to maintenance. The remains of this car were discovered in a swamp near Lake Waikaremoana by George Wray and eventually ended up with Roy Rowe of Hamilton who completed a very lengthy and challenging restoration. Robin purchased this early Ford in 1996 and enjoyed his ownership along with his many other cars and projects. We also know of other early brass radiator Model Ts for sale. Contact me for more information.
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. Contact me if your have news of interest to our veteran owners. Beaded Wheels 35
ARCHIVIST NEWS
Both C60L Chevrolet trucks.
Royal Tour Chevrolet and teleprinter operating staff.
1953-54 Royal Tour vehicles with a difference
THE CHEVROLET C60L TELEPRINTER TRUCKS I was viewing some files at the VCC Archive and thought that these very different Royal Tour vehicles, that played an important role in the 1953-54 Royal Tour, were interesting. Back in 1952 when it was decided that a Royal Tour would take place in New Zealand, there was a lot of organising to be done. The planned tour was extensive, visiting 46 towns in New Zealand from Kaikohe and Waitangi in the north to Bluff in the south, from 23 December 1953 to 6 January 1954. A lot of the towns on the itinerary were small and did not have telegraph facilities at the local Post Office. It was essential to have a telegraph operating /teleprinter room, so that the numerous local and overseas press journalists who accompanied the Royal entourage could send the “Royal Tour news,” back to their New Zealand or international newspaper offices to be published.
To ensure that every town they stopped at was able to communicate to the worldwide press network, two WWII era ex-Army Chevrolet C60L radio communication trucks were modified by the New Zealand Post Office. NZ 25957 became a mobile teleprinter office and the other, NZ 27153 was to carry spare equipment. Britishmade Creed teleprinters and other telegraph instruments were installed. Once they were connected to the copper wire network these machines sent the messages using a punched tape and the received messages were printed on a thin paper tape. No wifi or fibre in those days!
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Back then it would have been a major logistical exercise co-ordinating everything. In 1953 communication was a lot different from today. I acknowledge the assistance of the Ferrymead Post & Telegraph Society Inc, for providing photographs.
t DC3, 12 Royal Tour cars, possibly Wellington.
The two trucks were accompanied by four experienced telegraph operators, a supervisor and a telegraph technician. The Chevrolet C60L trucks were made in Canada. They were three tons, 4x4, with a 3.5L, 85 bhp straight 6 engine, and 158 inch wheelbase. They had
ARCHIVIST NEWS Don Muller Archivist archivist@ vcc.org.nz Ph 03 385 6850
a maximum speed of 50 mph and were used by many of the allied armies during WWII.
Four operators at work Inside the operating room.
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.
MARKET PLACE
Terms and conditions CLASSIFIED RATES Classified advertisements are limited to 45 words including contact details. Advertisers requiring advertisements longer than the standard 45 words, or who require typography or space, must apply display rates. The advertising department reserves the right to edit or return classifieds not meeting the criteria. All classified rates include GST Member of Vintage Car Club: No charge for text or photo classified advertising for club eligible vehicles. Members must be financial and identify their Branch. Limited to one free advertisement per issue. Maximum insertion of the same advertisement in up to three issues (must be resubmitted for each issue). Advertisements of a commercial nature are not eligible for free advertising. Non-member: $25 for first 45 words or part thereof. Text in a Boxed Ad: $30 non-members* Colour Photo Ad in Box: $60 non-members, enclose a clear photo and an SAE if return required.* Advertisements should be typed or clearly printed or submitted through vcc.org.nz/beadedwheels. Advertising Email address: beadedwheels@ vcc.org.nz Advert and Payment: to arrive not later than 10th of month preceding publication. Payment by Credit card or Internet banking (for Internet banking details email beadedwheels@vcc.org.nz). DISPLAY RATES* (gst exclusive) Casual (per issue) 3 Issues (per issue) Full Page $976 $780 Half Page $530 $425 Quarter Page $295 $234 All display rates quoted exclude GST and are for finished digital artwork supplied. Artwork can be arranged at an extra charge. Deadline for copy 10th of month preceding publication. Beaded Wheels will consider articles of a technical nature for inclusion in its editorial space. Beaded Wheels however regrets that it is not able to offer editorial space for advertisements nor for the promotion of products. Marketplace advertising cancellations received in writing prior to advertising deadline will be refunded in full. Where possible Beaded Wheels will refund 70% of the advertisement cost for any cancellations received after the booking deadline. *Payment by credit card will incur additional bank fee processing charge of 4% Beaded Wheels makes every effort to ensure no misleading claims are made by advertisers, responsibility cannot be accepted by Beaded Wheels or the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) for the failure of any product or service to give satisfaction. Inclusion of a product or service should not be construed as endorsement of it by Beaded Wheels or by the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.). No liability can be accepted for non-appearance of advertisements and the text of all advertisements is subject to the approval of the editor who reserves the right to refuse any advertisements which are not compatible with the aims, objectives, and standards of Beaded Wheels or the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) In accordance with the provisions of the Human Rights Commission Act 1977 Beaded Wheels will not publish any advertisement which indicates or could reasonably be understood as indicating an intention to discriminate by reason of sex, marital status, religious or ethical beliefs. Advertisers should take all care in drafting advertisements as they could be held liable, as well as Beaded Wheels and the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.).
FOR SALE ‘56-‘59 CHEV PICKUP, windscreen, steering box, bonnet hinges, crown wheel and pinion, assorted parts. 62/66 Chev pickup, brake drums, front guard patch panels, steering column, exterior trim, assorted parts. Two 550x18 tyres, one 475/500x19 tyre and tube, all warrantable. ‘61 Pontiac rear wheel spats. Moore aux transmission and torque tube, suit model A Ford. Model A counterbalanced crankshaft suit Model T. Open to offers, must go. Ph Howard 03 230 4879. MEM SOUTHLAND 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
PENRITE ENGINE COOLANT 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
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
Phone Grant 341 5100 or 027 223 9474 granttvin@gmail.com 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 1928 CHEVROLET UTE. S oft top, wooden wellsides, good going order. $18,000. Phone 022 6369961. Vehicle located in Temuka. 1973 TRIUMPH DOLOMITE. L ive rego, runs ok, needs some tlc. Some spares available. $2,800 ono. Ph 03 214 0426 MEM AUCKLAND
BMW-R100S, 1981. Open to offers around $10,000, have all the original parts, some spares, 2nd owner, 50K miles. Have owned for 41 years. Contact Jeff for more info and photos, email: kiwijeffian@gmail.com or phone 022 131 7235 MEM CANTERBURY
PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS PISTONS FOR VETERAN, VINTAGE, 1984 DAIHATSU DELTA DIESEL VANS (TWO). CLASSIC & ODDBALL ENGINES. Regos on hold but very rusty bodies. One We can supply piston sets for most makes and complete, one dismantled. Plus diff, gearbox, models. All piston sets come complete with rings radiator from third van. One has low mileage and gudgeons. motor. $2,000 for everything, all must go. As is, We have over 700 listings at competitive prices. where is. Ph/txt Jim Madgwick 027 339 8672. M S COOMBES LTD MEM WAIKATO 344 ST ASAPH ST, CHRISTCHURCH Ph: 03 366 7463 E: INFO@MSCOOMBES.CO.NZ DODGE SEDAN 1936 m ostly complete, suit wrecking or donor vehicle has trunk and side mount spare. In Auckland. Ph 09 818 5631 evenings.
DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS DRIVESHAFTS We can alter or make driveshafts with fabric PERSONALIZED NUMBER PLATE CHVY47. Price components to take modern universal joints and $1200. Contact Graham Boswell, ph 021 684 938 yokes, as well as performing dynamic balancing. hgboswell@outlook.com WAIKATO BRANCH We also carry a large range of driveshaft 5X FIRESTONE WHITE WALL TYRES components for cars, trucks, industrial and 5.25x5.50-17” travelled 7,435 miles. Tread depths marine. M S Coombes Ltd, 344 St Asaph Street, front 8mm, rear 7mm. Spare 10mm never been Christchurch 8011, Ph 03 366 7463, email: used. Price $ 1000 or near offer. Ph 027 433 4474. info@mscoombes.co.nz MEM CENTRAL OTAGO PENRITE OILS W e carry a large range from vintage to modern engines. Gearbox, diff, SU dashpot and water pump grease. 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 37
1966 DAIMLER V8 AUTO in immaculate order. New paint. Leather, upholstery, carpet, wood trim work done by previous owner. Owned for eight years and kept in top condition. Recently full service and top tune. Current Rego & WoF. $25,000. Ph Mike +64 27 439 2444, steinvale@xtra.co.nz MEM BOP
1963 VAUXHALL VICTOR i n original condition. This quality Thames car has been in the same extended family from new. Very tidy car for its age. Original paperwork included. Registered until 7/11/2024. Mileage 83,123. $8,000. Ph Dave 027 749 2510, suejeanwatson@xtra.co.nz
1952 SUNBEAM TALBOT CONVERTIBLE. 2 door, 4 seater. 2267 cc with an English overdrive. Excellent paintwork. Radial tyres. WoF and rego. Drives well. Many parts included. Asking $18,000. Any further information phone Matt on 021 247 4587, 4mattnbev@gmail.com MEM FAR NORTH
1968 JAGUAR AUTO, power steering and brakes. Rego and WoF. Nice car. At 83 its time to sell. $42,000. Ph 09 294 7225, tombro@xtra.co.nz MEM AUCKLAND
WOODEN WHEELS made for your metalwork. Steam-bent felloes, any shape spokes. Ph Vern Jensen 06 323 3868, 16 Osborne Terrace, Feilding, gransuz16@gmail.com MEM MANAWATU
1978 LEYLAND MARINA HDL manual. Very good condition reliable. $8,750 ono. Ph 021 296 6210, suevoss36@gmail.com MEM WANGANUI
1947 MERCURY COUPE D ark green in color. older restoration in 1984. Runs well with a few modifications that make it more reliable. MSD Ignition, electric fuel pump, New distributor, reconditioned carburettor, new fuel tank. WoF and Rego, $55,000. Ph 07 543 3332 or 021 290 8388, email kerik.k@slingshot.co.nz MEM BOP
1917 MODEL T ROADSTER TURTLEDECK, R estored including top and curtains. Spare parts and a tipping trailer included. This is immaculate and will be sad to see go. $41,250 ono. Ph Neil Cox 021 02 333 948, Nelson Street, Waipukurau 4200 MEM CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY
1924 MODEL T TOURER. G ood condition and well rallied around New Zealand. Has all the period accessories (speedo, RM brakes, Ruckstell). Been in current family since 1978, have history back to NZ new. $25k ono. Car in Auckland. Ph 021 267 5660. MEM CANTERBURY
1983 RACING ALFA ROMEO GIULIETTA; COD, log book; 10 year racing history. Spare 1983 Alfa Giulietta 2L rolling chassis; body/interior in restorable condition, with original 1.6L motor from racing car. Many spares. $17,595 ono. See Trademe competition cars advertisement. Ph Paul 021 147 8401. MEM CANTERBURY
VELOCIPEDE–BONESHAKER CYCLE C18651869 F irst of the pedal cycles. Maker, Merediths Bankside London. Imported c1900 by New Zealand cycle maker Issac Brown Thames, maker of Hauraki-Eagle and Orb cycles. Good condition. photos available. Expressions of interest to David Brown 021 320 163, email brownie2408@ icloud.com
1968 FORD F100 RANGER T400 360 V8 engine 109,150 miles. P Plate 68F100 3 speed column change. Left hand drive, Original condition inside and out. Overdrive, twin fuel tanks, overload springs. Original build sheet from factory. WoF and Rego. Has VIC. $55,000 firm. Ph 021 062 2132. MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY
38 Beaded Wheels
TOWBAR FOR BMC 1100/1300, modelled on a UK design and easily fitted. Fine for light trailer or boat (or rear bumper protection!) Weight 5kg and dismantles for economical shipping. Offers, Ronald 07 347 8490 MEM ROTORUA
1991 MAZDA 1600 GLX AUTO tidy just over 1997 BMW Z3 1.9L. 1 37km. Always garaged, good 105,000 km Regd till 7/25. WoF until Jan 25. This tyres, paint, hood and rear window. No body car has a VIC. Selling this mainly family owned damage or upholstery tears. A great reliable car because of lack of garaging, $3,750 ono. second car. WoF & rego 7/25. $4,800. Ph Graham Ph Stu 027 454 4426, stulynneill46@gmai.com 022 600 5346, blackirongraham@gmail.com MEM OTAGO MEM NELSON
1936 AUSTIN 10 CAMBRIDGE. W oF & Rego. Recent 1954 AUSTIN A40 SOMERSET COUPĒ convertible, rings and bearings. New tyres. New battery. Trailer very rare, been in dry storage, older restoration, load of useful spares. $8000ono. Ph 07 823 5712, plus numerous repairs to bring up to standard. atepushrods@gmail.com MEM WAIKATO Goes well. WoF and Rego on hold. $27,500. Phone 03 688 1374. MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY.
1959 CHEVROLET BELAIR 2 83 auto. Original rust-free classic that runs and drives great. All paperwork available for compliance. $47,500. Ph 021 294 8521. MEM AUCKLAND
BSA 1927 B21 250CC. Rare bike. Restored early ‘90s and used very little since. Runs well. Rego on hold. Offers over $7,000 close at end of October. Phone 03 313 6244. 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 most reflectors fitted to Pre & Post war cars and motorbikes. Also available in single filament 55 watt P22 & BA15 bases for use in spotlamps and mechanical dip reflectors. Most bases and configurations available in 6v & 12v. Further info: Norm & Jan Sisson, sole NZ Agent. Phone 027 311 6563, Amuri Motorcycles, 2C Birmingham Drive, Christchurch. Email modelboatsupplies@snap.net.nz
PARTS - O ne 6 stud 20.5 inch diameter spoked wheel (Chevy?). Two side/rear wheel mounts circa ‘30’s? One octagonal brass hubcap. One 1920s style taillight/number plate mount. One Delco Remy 3 brush generator – model no.9550. 1930s style carrier. For further information email; waveandbruce@xtra.co.nz MEM WAIRARAPA
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
1931 STUDEBAKER MODEL 54 ROADSTER. MERCEDES BENZ 250 SL HARD TOP AS PER Fully restored engine, gearbox, clutch, all done at photos attached Good condition. Asking Auto Restorations. Over 35k in receipts. Stunning $3000 ono. Phone John 021 109 1309. car. Health forces sale. Ph Richard 03 383 2077. MEM CENTRAL OTAGO MEM CANTERBURY
Beaded Wheels 39
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 VETERAN, VINTAGE AND CLASSIC VEHICLE MARKETING. Rushmore Motors can market your vehicle immediately with success with most makes. This service is free to vehicle sellers. We hold a huge database of prospective buyers wanting a wide variety of vehicles. We endeavour the match sellers with buyers. If you own an older vehicle and would like your bank balance considerably enhanced, give us a call on 027 224 5054 inc a/h, or rushmoremorors@xtra.co.nz
MODEL A FORD SHOCK ABSORBERS New Zealand made, as original. The latest manufacture now available. Arms and all connecting parts as required. Phone Jack 03 352 6672, 0274 322 041 Christchurch. M EM CANTERBURY
VETERAN PARTS, calorimeter, Smith’s clock, Smith’s m/c speedo, Stewart speedo, Daimler pressure gauge, brass petrol cap, BSA gearbox plate, Lucas dash light, windscreen wiper, Shaffer pressure gauge, Bosch coil, Sunbeam pressure gauge, chrome, bezel, Lucas tail light, Bosch ZR6 mag, Marmon tail light, Bosch, DF4 mag. Ph 07 348 427. MEM ROTORUA
TEMPERATURE GAUGE. $60 Ph 027 867 7219, Diane. MEM WELLINGTON
40 Beaded Wheels
RALLY NUMBER HOLDER. Postage $7.50 PERSONALISED PLATES. S uited for a Zephyr or (Rural delivery extra), or Canterbury branch anything else MK 2. $2500 ono. Ph Graham 0275 clubroom. $35 complete. Ph Henry 027 288 8277. 440 406. MEM WANGANUI MEM CANTERBURY
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
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
1939 BUICK COUPE 248 STRAIGHT 8 MOTOR . The car overall is in excellent condition. High speed diff. Opera seats in rear, good travelling car. NZ new. $55,000. Ph John Foster 03 615 9066 or jfmenorlue@gmail.com MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY
1929 CHRYSLER 70 SEDAN. $ 39,995. Immaculate restoration with nothing spared. Rego on hold. Third owner from new. Always garaged. Brand-new set of tyres. 6 volt original motor recon. and balanced, 6-cylinder, manual. New radiator. Some spares This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors on behalf of the owner. 027 224 5045 inc a/h.
1933 STUDEBAKER PRESIDENT 8. $108,000. A beautiful Luxury 7-seater four door limousine with a straight 8 engine of 5525 cc with 132 horsepower at 3400 rpm and weighs approx. 2 tons. Of all the Studebakers made 1933 Speedway models were the rarest and only about six have survived from the 616 that were built. Supposedly this is the only R/H drive one remaining. Regals having power brakes, Startix auto start, freewheeling gearbox, courtesy lights, folding auxiliary seats and twin side mounts as standard. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors on behalf of the owner. Ph 027 224 5045 inc a/h.
2006 PORSCHE 911 CARRERA 4 CABRIOLET 997 model. NZ new 104,000 kms, good service history, new front Michelin tyres, new genuine front rotors/pads. Full time 4WD wide body model 3.6L, exc. orig. condition, 3 owners $59,000. Ph 0274 811 919, cands01@xtra.co.nz MEM OTAGO
MARKET PLACE
1955 MG TF1500. V ery usable car with wire wheels, carrier rack, leather seats and panels, high ratio diff. Tidy condition, 193,000km, current WoF & Rego with original ownership papers showing all previous owners. Current ownership 51yrs. Some spares. $45,000 neg. Ph/txt 021 306 044, jurydd@outlook.com. MEM WAITEMATA
1994 CLASSIC MERCEDES BENZ C 200 5 Speed 1969 EXCALIBUR PHAETON S eries One 4 seater. sport. Body wax injected from new. Original Body off restoration 2012. Corvette 327 motor paint. Power sun roof. Done 2,000 miles per and 4 speed manual gearbox. Great touring car year, Michelin tyres, service history from new. with excellent weather equipment. Previously Will appreciate in value. Great car for 2026 owned by Mr James Brown the singer. $150,000, rally. $12,990. Ph Keith Maegaard 027 616 7902. Phone 027 371 2500. Interesting part exchange MEM MANAWATU considered. MEM SOUTHLAND
1955 STUDEBAKER COMMANDER COUPE DODGE AND VALIANT PARTS 1938 Dodge parts; Original, well presented car in factory colours. short block and gear box, front axle, bumper, 224ci V8, auto trans, All matching numbers. miscellaneous brake parts and front grille. The price This is a rare example. Receipts available. Current for these items would have to be negotiated. Also Rego and WoF. Selling due to health issues. Chrysler Valiant wheel rims and trailer axle. Two $65,000. Ph Murray 027 288 8116, murrayfoley@ original Valiant wheel rims in reasonable condition xtra.co.nz MEM SOUTH CANTERBURY with a trailer axle $500 Ph Gary 020 415 29907.
1988 FORD CABRIOLET. D OHC 1.6 litre fuel injected BF 323. Rare little convertible low 117,000 kms. Automatic with overdrive. New hood from USA, new shocks, new exhaust, drives like a charm. These 323 motors are renowned for their build quality. Original seats and trim. Ph Alan Wills 021 0870 0692. MEM CANTERBURY
FUEL TANK LINER, stops and protects against leaks and weeps. Phone 021 743 906, peter.alderdice@me.com MEM AUCKLAND
1922 FIAT 501C. $22,000. Rego on hold. Complete with top and bows. Drives well. Older restoration. Location Geraldine. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors on behalf of the owner. 027 224 5045 inc a/h.
1916 MAXWELL VETERAN. (REDUCED FROM $116,000 TO $60,000) Complete and total restoration. Pictures and info please inquire. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors on behalf of the owner. 027 224 5045 inc a/h.
1935 RAILTON. $50,000. 113 hp. Very recent fully reconditioned engine. Great brakes. Recon. gearbox & diff. Tyres new. Leather seats redone. Reg and WoF. Mileage 25 miles. Body woodwork excellent. Cruises at modern car speed. Reliable and great to drive. This vehicle is being marketed by Rushmore Motors on behalf of the owner. 027 224 5045 inc a/h.
1954 MGTF 1250 I n excellent condition (apart 1925 CHEVROLET TOURER Restoration well from a few stone chips). Current owner 25 years. progressed, hard work done, driveable, woodwork Full chassis-up restoration to concours condition renewed, on 12 volts. Motor reconditioned, 2001. 6,800 miles since, touring all over NZ. Little bodywork and chassis very sound, many spares. use these days due to ageing owner. WoF & Rego. Five brand new tyres. Original hood and upholstery. Luggage rack. Will be at VCC Canty Swap Meet. Another complete chassis, good motor, gearbox, Asking $39,000. Ph 027 365 1938 for more details. diff. $14,500. Ph Colin 021 976 726 . MEM WAIKATO MEM CANTERBURY Beaded Wheels 41
MARKET PLACE
WANTED 1954-59 AUSTIN A 90-95-105 overdrive unit and or gearbox to suit. Happy to consider an aftermarket equivalent. Ph 027 838 8324 MEM CENT.OTAGO TWO 1929 CHEVROLET WHEEL DUST COVERS. These are approx. 215mm diameter with 6 holes that slip over the wheel nuts and held in place by the screw on aluminium hub cap. Phone Ces 06 2410 454. MEM TARANAKI FORD CORTINA MK1 GT FACTORY AIRCLEANER required. Ph. Darryl 0274 374 545. MEM CANTERBURY MG PA/PB TOP RADIATOR TANK or complete radiator wanted. Ph Colin 03 308 1598, colinsmithson@xtra.co.nz MEM ASHBURTON 1980 SUZUKI MOTORCYCLE. Headlight – tail light – indicators front and back. Ph John at 387 0387, email annhen39@gmail.com MEM CANTERBURY
WANTING TO BUY A TIDY SMALL 1970 s or 1980s bike or scooter, preferably a 2 stroke 125 — but anything considered, will be going to a good home. Matamata based - photo for attention. Kindly text or call Pete 0274 701 181.
SOLEX CARBURETTOR WANTED or just the top with good thread for fuel pipe. Numbers are LM59,LH56 or LJ57 B32 PB15. Email barryhoff@ xtra.co.nz, phone Barry 027 443 5479. MEM TAUPO
MOSQUITO CLIP ON ENGINE, 3 8cc parts wanted. Ph Herman. 021 0250 3548. MEM CANTERBURY WINDSCREEN WIPER PARTS f or HZ Holden. Phone Russell Black 022 636 9961 1938 DODGE Still needing a head lamp lens, crank hole cover, grille center, and any other interesting parts for my restoration. Ph 09 818 5631 evenings.
6 VOLT GENERATOR FOR A 1931 SINGER JUNIOR. 1930 DE SOTO A ‘ROCHESTER’ SPEEDO as per ROTAX (M.A.) Ltd. AT131/2 6V 11A Ser No 25185. photo wanted. Phone Dennis 06 757 5216. ANY PANTHER MOTORCYCLE 250-350 lwt parts MEM TARANAKI This generator is driven from the timing chain. 1935-1947. Wayne, 07-8637232 or pam.wayne.c@ I really only need the armature. Ph Graham Pate, gmail.com MEM BAY OF PLENTY 021 280 1586 or 07 888 0009, email: gandmpate@ MEM WAIKATO OVERDRIVE UNIT. To give my 1929 Vauxhall gmail.com 20/60 longer legs. Must be in good working order. Peter Ph: 027 611 9835 Email: peter@chatsford. STROMBERG CARBURETTOR MODEL U2, f or a 1930 Dodge 6. Ph 021 146 4996 MEM OTAGO co.nz MEM BANKS PENINSULA ROCKER BOX COVER for a 1937 BSA Empire Star 500cc. Ph Graham 06 329 2992. MEM MANAWATU 15” CLASSIC / VINTAGE RACE TYRES, set of four; original steering wheel for a 1974 MGB plus a carburettor airbox for an MGB GTV8. Phone or text Warwick 027 435 0979 or email protheroe@ xtra.co.nz MEM ASHBURTON
FORD AA TRUCK The Waikato Branch as a club project is restoring a Ford 1927 AA truck. We have a chassis, engine, gearbox and differential, all of unknown condition. As part of the restoration we are seeking the following parts: radiator and surround, bonnet, firewall and scuttle, both front mudguards, dash panel and gauges, headlights. Early model Model A car parts generally fit the truck we are restoring. Donations of parts would be gratefully accepted by the Branch. If you have any that you are happy to donate please contact Graham Holmes 027 627 7341 or gpholmes@ kinect.co.nz. Terry Pidduck 027 272 6319.
WANTING TO CONTACT one of the stall holders at the last Pleasant Point Swap Meet. This person stall was along the front road fence, about five stalls from the entry gate. On the back of this ute was a single cast Army wheel with rubber tyre. If this was you, please phone Kevin on 027 721 0838 WAIKATO BRANCH MEM CANTERBURY
HEAD GASKET SET FOR 1928 AUSTIN 20/6 P ayen gasket set number CS828. Could the parts shed teams please see if they have any of these in their respective parts sheds? Email hammonds@ farmside.co.nz MEM HAWKE’S BAY SERIES 3 LAND ROVER FREE WHEELING HUBS wanted, 24 spline. Ph 03 439 5207 or blunden@ slingshot.co.nz MEM NORTH OTAGO
SWAP MEETS & RALLIES
All vehicles entered in National And International Rallies must hold a current VehicIe Identity Card (VIC).
NORTH OTAGO BRANCH
WINDSOR RALLY Saturday 7 December 2024.
Departing North Otago VCC Clubrooms Stoke Street, Oamaru
Come and enjoy North Otago’s countryside.
Entries Close 22nd November Contact Windsor Rally Organiser for entry forms. Ernest George 027 2090609 Email: windsorrally@gmail.com P O Box 360, Oamaru 9444
42 Beaded Wheels
r ou d o y hea h t n c b i nd ar im s a M C l h e r ex t t n lea ut h o s
MOTORCYCLE RALLY CENTRAL OTAGO BRANCH
Saturday 15 March 2025. On touring roads east of Alexandra.
Enquiries to secretary; gtml@xtra.co.nz
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
Friday 11 April – Friday 18 April 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
Mark Wilkinson at sicc@vcc.org.nz Beaded Wheels 43
WAIKATO WAIKATO VINTAGE VINTAGE
SOUTH CANTERBURY
SWAP MEET
BRANCH VCC
SWAP MEET BAZAAR BAZAAR Saturday
5 APRIL 2025
KARAPIRO DOMAIN, CAMBRIDGE
Sunday 17 November 2024
Gates open 7am • Public Entry $10 • Children under 12 Free • Sites $20 • 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
ORARI RACECOURSE Public from 8.00am (Site holders 7am) Held wet or fine Site Bookings Phone Michelle 027 284 6422 scvccswapmeet@hotmail.com Committee Chairman John Lester 021 152 7758 End summer in style with a trip to a South Island institution – the South Canterbury Swap Meet.
NO DOGS ON GROUNDS
Site holders and visitors travel from across the South Island to attend – make 2025 your year to join us.
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!
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
44 Beaded Wheels
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.
The 30th NZ National
MORRIS MINOR CONVENTION APRIL 18 – 20 2025 • TIMARU •
The Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc.) The Historic Vehicle Authority of New Zealand
29th VCC National Motorcycle Rally 25 - 27 January 2025
For more information Text: 021 046 1590 or Email: sc.morrisminorclub @gmail.com
Vintage Car Club of New Zealand Southland Branch Inc. Celebrates 70 years.
Southland Vintage Car Club 70th Anniversary Rally 8 February 2025 in Invercargill
Email interest to southland@vcc.org.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 45
TRADE DIRECTORY
MARLBOROUGH MAGNETOS
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
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Contact Paul Radmall at paul@magnetos.co.nz
UPPER CLASSICS NEW ZEALAND
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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
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46 Beaded Wheels
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BOOK YOUR COMPANY’S TRADE DIRECTORY ADVERTISEMENT TODAY
ING THE KETTER UTION CONTRIB STARTS TRIC FROM ELEC 'N ROLL TO ROCK
DREAM
DRIVING
OUR HISTORY
LATEST CLUB INFORMATION
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE As I write this message I am fortunate enough to be travelling in Europe and visiting my son. One thing that has caught my attention as we drive to various cities and towns is the constant message that appears on the navigation system “you are about to enter a low emissions zone”. We have struck this not just in the big cities but also the smaller towns throughout Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. I wonder how long it will be until we experience this in New Zealand? I read in UK car magazines of rallies being held where alternative fuels are being used and race meetings, both classic and modern, that are trying different blends. My research at this stage show that costs are prohibitive on this side of the world even without the additional cost of freight to New Zealand. Many clubs are buying into systems that allow you to offset your emissions. To me this is not solving a problem but shifting responsibility and allows someone else to clip the ticket on the way through. Up until now we as a club have not been affected directly with any of this but our time is running out. Companies
worldwide are reviewing all parts of their business to see what their environmental footprint is so they can work better to reduce it. At our AGM Ray Robertson, Festival Director for our upcoming Vero Festival of Historic Motoring in Nelson, spoke of a recent experience he had when meeting with a potential sponsor. This local company have been very generous with sponsorship to the local branch and even their local staff were caught by surprise when they found that their new corporate policy did not look favourably on our hobby. This now being the case we will need to do some homework at a national level to look at our club’s environmental footprint and to create ways that we might be able to reduce this. With a slow approach and the correct research we should be able to find a solution that suits us rather than have one forced upon us. I trust that you have all read the AGM summary message sent out in August. This was a new idea last year to keep everyone up to date. I mentioned in the report that each delegate was handed a draft document highlighting the changes to our constitution to reflect the new structure the Executive is proposing. A copy
Bucket list for the boys! VCC Banks Peninsula member Andrew Maguire met up with President George Kear (who couldn’t get the grin off his face) at this year’s Goodwood Revival on 6-8 September this year.
has also been emailed to all branch secretaries. If you have any questions on this please speak with your delegate as they should be able to walk you through the proposed changes and the reasoning behind them. We have requested feedback on this before the end of November so we can produce a further updated draft before Christmas, allowing plenty of time before it goes to the vote at next year’s AGM. From this side of the world I have been following, on Facebook, the activities of our branches up and down the country for our national day event, Daffodil Rally
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
SPEED STEWARD Ray Sanders 021 632 563 speedsteward@vcc.org.nz
Andy Fox 03 314 3763
Murray Trounson 03 339 8830 mgmt3@vcc.org.nz
for Cancer. The effort put in by branches and the exposure we have got looks tremendous! It seems as though most branches had fine weather although the rain did not seem to hold back the few branches who were not so lucky. What a great effort. My holiday is drawing to an end with the final highlight this weekend of attending the Goodwood Revival. This is a bucket list event for me which I am very excited about.
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
Congratulations to the following members who have recently been awarded their 50 and 60 Year Awards.
Anderson, Ron Blackler, Barrie Sutton, Murray Wrack, Brian Wrack, Lyn
50 YEAR
Northland Canterbury Bay of Plenty Northland Northland
Janes, William Shier, Ellis Townshend, Barry Wallis, John
60 YEAR
Bay of Plenty Banks Peninsula Canterbury Canterbury
Beaded Wheels 47
VINTAGE CAR CLUB OF NEW ZEALAND DRIVING OUR HISTORY
2024 NATIONAL AGM
Words Kaaren Smylie, photos Brian Pratt Tauranga lived up to its reputation as a ‘fairly winterless’ destination when Bay Of Plenty Branch hosted the VCC AGM from 09–11 August. A good turnout of delegates arrived at Hotel Armitage, situated just a stone’s throw from our clubrooms in downtown Tauranga. The agenda item concerning the forthcoming constitution seemed to be of most interest to attendees and some robust discussion was expected. President George Kear once again managed to keep good control of the discussion. Some clear directives and well-presented documentation were evident and supported the debate admirably. Most left the AGM
satisfied that the way forward now appears much clearer.
Partridge, a Peking to Paris participant on more than one occasion.
BOP Branch was keen that the AGM was bolstered by sightseeing and social get togethers. Some of the visitors took in the shopping and cafe scene in downtown Mount Maunganui. Others took the opportunity to view exhibits at the Classic Flyers aviation museum.
On Sunday morning our clubrooms provided a springboard for much more socialising than what was initially intended. Due to flight delays many of the delegates found that they had a lot more time on their hands than the initial timetable suggested. BOP members then swung into action by filling this void for the visitors with trips on the Tauranga Harbour plus drives around the region in classic and vintage cars.
Our entertaining MC for Saturday evening, Donn White, gave a fully informed presentation concerning BOP’s local motoring history, along with an awesome interview with VCC member Stephen
▲ Old stalwarts of the Bay Of Plenty Branch enjoying the Sunday visit from delegates; Ivan Allen, Ray Findlay, Dave Toms, Erik Kristensen. t The Bay Of Plenty Organising Committee for the AGM. Alastair Jones, Keith Perkins, Brian Pratt, Kaaren Smylie, Branch Chairman Donn White. (Absent: Jill Whitcombe and George Howard)
48 Beaded Wheels
All in all – a full and enjoyable weekend.
▲ Best Dressed Male, Andy Fox (Fred Flintstone), receives his well-earned prize from Kaaren Smylie and Branch Chairman Donn White.
t BOP clubrooms frontage.
Management committee 2024–2025: L-R Murray Trounson (Mgmt Committee) Neil Beckenham (Registrar), Ray Sanders (Speed Steward), Glynn
Clements (NI Club Captain), Mark Wilkinson (SI Club Captain), Kevin Clarkson (Beaded Wheels Editor). Seated L-R: George Kear (VCC National President), Andy Fox (Mgmt Committee), Rebecca George (Mgmt Committee),
▲ A fond farewell to our outgoing immediate Past President at the conclusion of her handover year included a presentation to Dianne Quarrie from National President, George Kear.
JOHN L GODDARD TROPHY 2024 RECIPIENT ROBERT BAINES The VCC is indebted to all those members who take up the mantle of organising events for our Club. Donating countless hours of personal time so that other members can easily enjoy the motoring activity that brings us all together can be a thankless task. The recipient of this year’s John L Goddard Trophy award, Robert Baines, has done just that for over 40 years. Forty years ago, Robert Baines and his mate, the late Graeme Sutherland, started an event that has become legendary in the North Island – The Gumboot Rally. Originally based at the ABBA Motor Camp on the northern outskirts of Taihape, the Rally is held on New Year’s Day with entrants from all over the North Island, from Wellington to Whangarei and most places in-between. Cabins or tenting was the order of the day with happy hour and the trusty barbecue being the norm. After the ABBA Motor Camp closed down (now a headquarters for a shearing contractor), the event moved into town with accommodation at the local motels being a little bit more comfortable for the ageing entrants (the people, not the vehicles!). An eclectic mix of cars from Model As to Morgans, Morries to MX5s, all club eligible vehicles are welcome.
The tried and true formula is perfect — arrive in Taihape on New Year’s Eve, take over a local Chinese Restaurant (which keeps bringing food out until we ask them to stop) and a few drinks with other entrants from around the North Island. Whangarei had a regular contingent for many years as did Hawke’s Bay and now, Central Hawke’s Bay has seven or eight regulars attending, such is the popularity of this event. New Year’s Day starts at the Taihape Domain with the purchase of a $10/person raffle ticket. This is your entry fee and for that you get a terrific barbecue at the end of the day put on by Robert and his helpers from the Wanganui Branch. The Rally itself is in the form of a poker run with yellow ammo boxes strategically placed around the course; and what a course! Winding dusty gravel roads, down
VCC National President, George Kear, (left) with this year’s John L Goddard Trophy winner, Robert Baines.
through river valleys and then climbing over mountain ranges (anyone who has taken part in the the Highland Fling Rallies will know the area). There is a twist with the Poker Run in that there is no point rummaging through to find all the aces as the cards are not worth their face value. Robert has some secret formula to what each card is worth and then to establish the whole thing more of a chance, a coin is tossed to see whether the best hand or the worst is the Rally winner. Then everyone, yes everyone, gets a prize — just like a school six year olds’ sports event.
Beaded Wheels 49
NELSON 15–21 MARCH 2026
FESTIVAL UPDATE We are looking forward to seeing you at the Vero Festival of Historic Motoring in just under 18 months! Make sure 15 – 21 March 2026 is set aside in your diary.
s Murray Schwass, 1930 Willys Whippet.
NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE. We now have an archive of newsletters that anyone can access at: www. historicmotoring.org.nz/ newsletter-archive/ The newsletters are sent out to all pre-registered people and we have the luxury of space to go more in-depth on topics concerning the Vero IFHM.
VERO-READY RESTOS ACCOMMODATION Last issue we shared hotels around the region that have made offers for our participants (www.bit.ly/VIFHMstayoffers). Now we’re happy to say the Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park has a deal especially for us: 15% discount to guests booking accommodation to attend the Vero IFHM. This will also be extended to those who have already booked at the park once rates for 2026 have been set. Give them a call for more details. www.tahuna.nz/ 03 548 5159 Plus the TBHP have also offered the same 15% discount rate for storage of trailers at the park for any participants – $17 instead of the usual $20 for the week of the event.
Latest accommodation information
50 Beaded Wheels
There’s a few hardy souls out there working on restorations with the aim of driving a well sorted vehicle at the Vero IFHM. We spoke to Grant Morrell recently about his pickup project which has Nelson Tasman history. Some of you will have seen his work already in various Facebook groups including his restos of an A35 and a Morris Minor – both commercial vans for their family breakfast cereal business Wildchixs Muesli. Currently he is restoring a 1936 ASXC Vauxhall/Bedford ute which seems to be an exceptionally rare beast – try finding images of one on the internet. If you do Grant will be very happy to see them. The ASXC came into New Zealand from the UK in 1938 on the SS Rangitane. It was assembled in Petone and is one of only a very small series of pickup versions of this model. After serving the Post & Telegraph the ASXC ended up with Billy Grindle, owner of the Kohatu Hotel who used it to ferry moonshine for his customers from Nelson. After that, life got rougher and included ownership by a pig and deer hunter ending up for some years under a collapsed shed.
Nelson VCC member Murray Schwass rescued it and it was recently bought by Grant who is now in the middle of a total restoration using both traditional and modern techniques like 3D printing of hard to find parts. All this while maintaining both a serious NZ bush themed model railway at home (which also tours the country for public display) and maintaining 2ha of native display gardens. Having spoken to Grant on the phone I’ve no doubt he has the energy and skills to finish this project in time for the Vero IFHM 2026. See Grant’s photos of progress on facebook or here: www.bit.
More on his story and others who were there for both in future reports. Vehicles and people who attended both events will sport a special badge in 2026.
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.
ly/GM-ASXC
1972 AND 2026 THERE FOR BOTH
• Speaking of Murray Schwass,
he’s one of quite a few that are planning to bring cars to the 2026 event that were at the 1972 Nelson International Rally. Murray has in his collection a 1930 Willys Whippet which was owned by the Tidswell family (their name is listed on page 47 of the 1972 souvenir book entry #695). Murray is going to enter this car in the 2026 Vero. • Barry and Carla Barnes are planning to be there in 2026 driving the 1925 Studebaker that Barry finished in time to drive to in the 1972 rally. It was reported in the Oct/Nov 1971 Beaded Wheels that “Barry Barnes is one chap who has a great deal of work ahead of him. So far Barry has his motor front axle and springs assembled on the 1925 Studebaker tourer. With all the body work ahead and upholstery to do he will be a busy boy for a while yet.”
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, everyday 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
In early September the annual accounts for membership for the year 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2025 were sent out. These were sent via email or for those members that do not have an email address in our system, the invoices were posted. If you haven’t received your invoice, let your branch secretary or National Office know by early October. Emailed invoices will come from our bulk email address nationaloffice@vccnz. nz, please check your junk email folder if you have not received your subscription invoice. By adding nationaloffice@vccnz.nz to your safe email address list you should avoid future emails
CLASSIC, VINTAGE AND VETERAN MOTORING FOR 77 YEARS No. 382 June/July 2023
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BRANCH NEWS
Ashburton: North Otago garage raid.
ASHBURTON
Ashburton: SICC Mark Wilkinson presenting David Park his award.
Ashburton: SICC Mark Wilkinson presenting Kevin Harkness with his and Bernie badges.
Ashburton: North Otago Garage Raid. Ford V8 engine ready to go in a vehicle.
We welcome new members Robin Marshall, Zeke Stringer, Gary Clancy and Peter Gluyas. On 13 July about 30 of our members headed south to Oamaru and the North Otago Branch clubrooms for their Garage Raid. There were over 100 members there, so we split into groups and headed off to visit three sheds before lunch, veiwing four more in the afternoon. Another great day out. Our Annual Dinner was held at Hotel Ashburton on 18 July, with South Island Club Captain Mark Wilkinson presenting four 25-year awards. First were Kevin and Bernie Harkness, although Bernie was absent, and sadly passed away two weeks later. Our thoughts are with the family. Mark then presented David and Linda Parks with their award. Our guest speaker for the evening was none other than Alan Dick, founder of Classic Driver magazine. What a great speaker — he was telling us about some of his trips around the world, and he could have entertained us for some time. On 1 August ten members fronted up at South Canterbury Branch for the Annual Quizco contest between the two branches. Once again we got pipped at the post, with Ashburton Team Two coming third - look out next year.
AUCKLAND Auckland: Russel and Jocelyn McAlpine getting the Bill Shears Trophy at our AGM.
52 Beaded Wheels
TREVOR BEGG
JOHN STOKES
The July motorcycle run visited Vincent owner Trevor Hackett’s company KZ Marine, which builds high tech masts
and rigging for specialist racing yachts and has international clientele. Graham Viall brought his BSA “Frightening” to the July section meeting. The bike was constructed from a new BSA frame imported from England, with the remaining components coming from Graham’s stock of spares. Peter Cooper spoke about his collection of scooters. Barry Robert’s 1909 two-cylinder Rover has been sold back to the Wade family of Whitford, who owned the car up to 1960. Steve Keys has purchased the 1908 Maxwell that was owned by his late father Les from the Evans’ estate. Phil Henley has his sixcylinder 1913 Mitchell running again. John and Janice Gardner were the overall winners at Wellsford’s Winter Woollies event in their 1939 Ford Anglia. New people on our committee include Rory King and Neil Stott. Richard Langridge’s latest restorations include a 1938 Rolls-Royce Wraith, a 1984 Bristol Brigand and a 1974 Jensen Interceptor. August club night saw Larry Paul speak on the recovery and restoration of the 17-metre schooner Daring, which was built at Mangawhai in 1863, and had sunk and been buried in sand at Port Waikato for many years. Russel and Jocelyn McAlpine were awarded the Bill Shears Trophy for their 50 plus years of service to the branch. Midweek tourers went to Barry Phillips’ museum and subsequently to John Courtney’s museum. August Midweek Tourers visited a private collection of Chevrolet Corvettes and Radical racing
Auckland: Steve Keys 1908 Maxwell at Daffodil display.
Auckland: Graham Vialls BSA “Frightening.”
cars. Radical are an English brand, and the cars displayed had engines with more than 400 and 500 hp respectively. About 35 of our vehicles and 60 members were present. Auckland’s Daffodil day display attracted about 70 vehicles to the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple at Botany. Thirtytwo were from the Auckland Branch and the rest from one make clubs. The branch charabanc raised money by giving rides, and more than $6,500 was raised for the Cancer Society.
Banks Peninsula: Branch Chairman Craig Keenan(R) presents Ellis Shier with his 60 year Award.
Banks Peninsula: David Owen (L) receives the Banks Peninsula Race Series Championship Trophy from Don Gerrard.
BANKS PENINSULA DON GERRARD We welcome new members Laurence Elder with a Moto Morini motorcycle, and Rod Wills with a Ford Model A. July and August were busy months, with the running of both the Balcairn Trial and the Hadstock Driving Tests — separate reports in this issue. Both these events attract an excellent number of entries and are proving ideal for younger ‘pilots’ to have a go. We held our Branch Awards luncheon at the Tai Tapu Hotel in August, and this year celebrated the 60-year VCC membership of Ellis Shier. Always an enthusiastic member, he navigated for Ron Hasell in a three litre Bentley in the ‘65 Haast Rally and in the same year purchased a 14/40 Vauxhall which he subsequently owned for 40 years. Ellis nowadays has a slightly smaller steed, an MG F. Recipients of 50-year awards were John Bain and Martin Strachan. The three class winners and runnersup of the inaugural 2023/24 Banks Peninsula Race Series Championship also
Banks Peninsula: Polished performance from first timer Meg Pidgeon during Hadstock Driving Tests.
Beaded Wheels 53
s Bay of Plenty: Branch Patron Alastair Jones officiated with making Maurice Nottle a Life Member at our August Club Night. Photo Brian Pratt Canterbury: Flawless Packard.
received their awards. From the Sandy Bay Hillclimb in Nelson to Teretonga in the south, a total of 62 competitors had contested the 12 circuit and hillclimb events during the racing season. Special congratulations went to David Owen in his C-Type Jaguar Replica who clinched the overall Championship title. Earlier in the year at the Skope race meeting, he took away the now annual Bill Cope Trophy, in recognition of a competitor who drives to and from the track in their race vehicle to compete. Kindly donated by his son Rob Cope-Williams, Bill did exactly the same in his MG in the ‘20s and ‘30s at circuits like Brooklands in England, alongside such illustrious company as Lord March and Sammy Davis. Bill carried on this tradition at tracks such as Wigram in the ‘50s in his supercharged Austin 7 after he immigrated to New Zealand
BAY OF PLENTY
Canterbury: Wandering daffodils.
Canterbury: Spring airing for original 1922 Overland roadster.
54 Beaded Wheels
KAAREN SMYLIE
Sadly, we lost two older club stalwarts this month. Ivan Allen our VIC officer, as well as another enthusiastic member Doug Wood. Our branch hosted the recent National AGM which was based at Hotel Armitage in Tauranga 9 -11 August. After the formal aspects of the AGM were addressed, members were treated to a dinner bolstered with light hearted humour from the Green, Gold and Red dress code. The VCC byline Driving Our History was also explored
by a presentation focusing on roading and motoring in the Bay of Plenty over the years. The next day members were welcomed to our clubrooms and the hospitality was extended for many as some of the flight departures were delayed. Just an evening later we held our monthly Club Night with North Island Club Captain (NICC) Glyn Clements in attendance. Glyn was kept busy awarding long service awards to Bill Janes (60 years), Murray Sutton (50 years) and Margaret Goldsmith (35 years). Our Patron Alastair Jones also officiated and announced Maurice Nottle to be a branch Life Member. Murray Sutton gave a well-received presentation concerning the ground up restoration of a 1961 Austin Mini van which had been on show inside our club rooms. Less than two weeks later we were heavily involved with a very successful Daffodil Rally for Cancer promotion. More than 200 vehicles showed up, nine one-make car clubs were in attendance, and by the end of the day it was obvious that a new grand tally of donations was going to be set. Lexus of Tauranga, our sponsor, helped considerably with advertising in the print media, as well they supplied two of the latest gold Lexus LBX models and a staff member to assist with a good level of exposure on the day.
Central Hawke’s Bay: s Several members enjoying a pub lunch. Barry and Lyn Smales 105E Anglia, with Paul and Judy Jensons Model A Tudor.
Central Hawke’s Bay: Kay Carswells Desoto, John Foots Toyota,and Paul Jensen’s Model A, outside the Porangahau Pub.
CANTERBURY
COLIN HEY
Leading up to our AGM in June our long-serving grounds keeper and facilities caretaker Mike Foster decided it was time to put the tools aside after at least 10 years dedicated service to the branch, directing the maintenance team and being the go-to person when things broke, needed mending, or just needed some rejuvenating. His boots were difficult to fill, and ultimately two people have stepped into them, and we welcome Pete Blacklock and Peter Merrifield to our committee. They have taken over the grounds and building maintenance respectively. We thank Mike for achieving such a high standard during his time — he has passed on a wonderful legacy to our branch and it’s something our members are very proud of. Also new to our committee is Brodie Williams. As a younger member he is very tech-savvy and as well as taking on the role
Central Otago: ’Stone of the Day’ Sweepers Ray Anderson, Beau Trevathan and Wendy Gray.
of our Hub Editor, he is bringing some new innovations into our communications and the systems in our clubrooms and grounds. Events have continued through the colder months, with both the Around Town Rally and the Winter Run and High Tea being well supported and enjoyed by many. The mid-week 9 to 90s group also has had a couple of good outings, the last a very successful shared lunch in the clubrooms. As I write this, we have just completed our annual Daffodil Rally. Hugely successful and good fun for our members and visitors alike.
CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY
HEATHER CHEER
Our AGM in June saw Brian Connor step down as secretary, and Ian Gollan from the committee. Ella Domper accepted the secretary’s position and Paul Jensen will go onto the committee. The members thanked those who had helped with the smooth running of our branch, as well as those who had organised the monthly runs. Our July run saw 11 cars ready to negotiate the back country roads east of Waipukurau, ending at Porangahau for lunch. The historic Duke of Edinburgh pub escaped the ravages of Cyclone Gabriel but the local police station, dairy and many homes nearby were flooded. The run was a semi-competitive time trial with several silent check points and was won by Gavin and Viv Harris in their Spitfire. Organising is well under way for the Daffodil Day fundraiser for
cancer on 25 August. Daffodils are here, and we are looking forward to spring motoring.
CENTRAL OTAGO
JOHN GRAY
The June Thursday Muster was a visit to the historic gold mining reserve at Welshtown, in the Dunstan mountains north of Cromwell. The club eligible cars managed the steep climb up there very well. Members were well wrapped up to enjoy a picnic lunch and the panoramic views, before taking a walk among the historic stone buildings, old stamper battery and very deep mineshafts. Member Mike Elliot presented a very informative and entertaining report on his trip last year driving around the North Coast of Scotland, colloquially called the NC 500, at our July club night. Mike’s description of the Applecross Pass and the near continuous single-track roads made us thankful for our often, near empty roads here in the south. In winter curling on ice is a popular pastime in Central Otago. It was therefore appropriate that we organise a branch outing to have a go at the new indoor rinks in Alexandra. The event was attended by 18 curlers, and after some coaching by skilled members Beau Trevathan and Ray Anderson our members were very soon curling like experts. August branch night and Sunday visit were presented by Wanaka member Garth Hogan, who very eloquently described his extensive history with speedway cars, New Zealand drag racing and Bonneville record attempts in the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Garth raced both a Rail and Funny Cars during this time and claimed many
Beaded Wheels 55
Central Otago: Winter lunch at Welshtown.
New Zealand and Australian records. Thirty-two branch members also visited his very extensive automotive collection at his home in Wanaka.
EASTERN BAY OF PLENTY
BRUCE SEDDON
Rotorua Branch annual swap meet in July attracted a surprising number of Eastern Bay attendees, especially considering the meet’s usual ability to attract foul weather. However, the draw of possible treasures and renewing old acquaintances outweighs the discomfits. Well done Rotorua Branch for running a well-organized meet year after year. We enjoyed a combined drive to the Rotorua Steam Museum with BOP, Rotorua, and South Waikato members. Each branch has their own route from their home base
to converge on the museum in Holdens Bay. This provides an interesting destination and pleasant surroundings to enjoy a combined picnic lunch. The artifacts and working displays of the museum provide a reminder of the hardships the early farming and forestry communities faced in carving out a living on the Central North Island plateau. Trips which now take us hours, even in our older cars, took days 100-150 years ago, and any mechanical equipment was primitive and dangerous to operate. BOP Branch members took the opportunity to remind us that they were hosting the National AGM in Tauranga and that it is a good opportunity for adjoining branches to attend and observe. The end of winter is busy despite the cold, and we provided a good share of the turnout at the bi-monthly Vintage and Classic Sunday Breakfast on the outskirts
Far North cars at Matauri Bay.
EBOP: Arthur Van Thiel’s Straight 8 Buick at Rotorua Steam Museum, flanked by Ronald Mayes’ Triumph and a Rover. Photo Les Costar.
56 Beaded Wheels
of Whakatane. This is always a good combination of regulars mixed with surprises from cars we haven’t seen before or for a long time. This month included the debut of a modified Anglia and the very imaginative re-engineering of a Volkswagen Beetle. Superb engineering and bodywork.
FAR NORTH
MURRAY CORMACK
Our club run in June was the Molloy Trophy run, which saw a good number of entrants, some of whom we had not seen for a while. The Whangaroa Fishing Club was our starting point and we took the scenic coastal drive to Matauri Bay for lunch. It was a great winter’s day with a fine mix of a competitive rally with a social outing. July saw our Annual Dinner and prizegiving at the Mangonui Cruising Club premises on the Mangonui Harbour. It
Far North cars at Harrison’s farm.
EBOP: Arthur Van Thiel’s Buick descending the hill to Lake Rotoma taken through the windscreen of his father’s Chrysler Valiant. Photo Charlie Lange.
was good to see the club trophies spread around the members and it was another well appreciated social event. Another of our midweek runs in early August saw a pleasant morning discovering some little-known facts about Okaihau, culminating in a visit to Snow Harrison’s farm. Here we viewed a large display of old farm machinery, bygone household equipment, and, to boot, some interesting vintage cars in various states of restoration. Okaihau turned on a great morning for our members, many staying on to support the local outlets for lunch. A midweek potluck lunch following our monthly meeting was well-supported and
Hawke’s Bay: Members cars on the Marine parade, Napier, as part of Winter Art Deco.
Gore Branch Chairman Murray Proctor presenting Pauline Price with the Ladies Run trophy.
Hawke’s Bay: A crowd gathers around cars and members on the Marine Parade, Napier. Gore: Southern Club Captain Mark Wilkinson presenting Gore Branch member Barry Lawrence with his 50 year badge.
enjoyed by all. It is great to see so many new members active in our club activities. We have some interesting club outings coming up, and we look forward to these events.
GORE
Gore: Some of the mostly Ford collection of John Tremaine. Gore: John Tremain trying to convince members that the Ruby needs the big rubber.
BILL SHEDDAN
Being mid-winter, branch activities have decreased but the regular Wednesday afternoon social, often called playtime, is still being attended by a few hardy members. There have been many comments on how extremely cold this winter has been in the far south with quite a few members coming down with various ailments. With Spring around the corner, I would hope they will soon be restored to good health. Our annual dinner and prize-giving drew a good crowd this year. Held in the clubrooms it seemed that most members received some recognition for their year’s participation in club activities. It was great to have South Island Club Captain Mark
Wilkinson present Barry Lawrence with his 50-year badge and citation. July’s Tuesday Ramble saw us on a repeat visit, firstly for lunch at the Gore T & C Club and then a short drive to the always interesting and ever-expanding car collection put together by John Tremaine. His dedication to the Ford brand is evident in his collection from Model As to later sports models of varying capacities and horsepower.
HAWKE’S BAY
DIANE FRIIS
Recent bad weather in Hawke’s Bay led to the cancellation of many events in the Friday and Saturday programme of the Winter Art Deco festival – including Hawke’s Bay Branch plans to offer art deco car rides as a fundraising opportunity. Fortunately Sunday was a beautiful day which allowed the planned walking tour of the Napier CBD to go ahead. Branch members, with their cars and dressed in
Beaded Wheels 57
Art Deco finery, met near the Soundshell on the Marine Parade. The cars drew quite a crowd, with many photos taken and questions asked by sightseers and tourists. We then walked around the CBD with a list of buildings to identify from a small photo of a piece of their art deco architecture – most of these were on the upper storey of the buildings, so you needed to look up to find the answers. Following the tour we took a short run to the clubrooms in Meeanee for afternoon tea. Daffodil Day fundraising started in late August with a country run and a barbecue back at the clubrooms, followed on 1 September by the branch’s attendance at the local Roam and Chrome event in Ahuriri. This is a monthly event where anyone can take their car along and display it for a couple of hours on Sunday morning. It’s not unusual for 400 cars to turn up. For the September meet the Hawke’s Bay Branch had a designated park-up area where we ran a sausage sizzle and collected donations for the Cancer Society.
HOROWHENUA
BRUCE JAMIESON
Our annual Night Owl Rally is somewhat misnamed these days. It was run at night for years, but since the old cars’ headlights are not so bright, and maybe the same can be said of some of the drivers’ vision, we now run it in the daytime. We only had 14 entries for this year’s event, and with one non-starter, one break-down and one who got lost, there were not many to
enjoy the coffee and biscuits at the end. There were ten silent checks, and three teams got eight of them. How Manawatu: Sunday Jaunt participants many railway tracks inspecting the Walker truck chassis did you cross? Only which had recently been sandblasted, one team got seven repaired and primed. from seven. There restoration of a Walker electric truck. were eleven bridges Club Captain Derek Haycock spoke to cross. Five teams counted them all. and showed a video at the July club On a recent club run, we visited two night of his trip to the South Island retirement villages, partly to show off our to participate in the Irishman Rally. cars, but also to offer trips for any residents July ended with a well-attended Winter who were keen on a bit of reminiscing. Warmer Dinner at the clubrooms. Some of the elderly had a bit of difficulty August began with the women getting in and out. Either the cars were a bit from the branch meeting at a different high (Ford Model A, Willys Jeep) or too low café for their monthly morning tea/ (Austin Healey Sprite, Ford Falcon convertbrunch. There was a healthy increase ible), but with a bit of help most were able to in numbers over the July get-together. get on board. For us it was very interesting The August Sunday Jaunt was to hear the stories of their past motoring another garage raid – this time to a experiences, and the vehicles that they had private collection in Feilding, which owned. It has been a few years since we did had a strong motor racing theme. a similar visit, but the enthusiasm of the Club night for August had a medical theme, residents makes us keen to do it again soon. with member Dr Karl Gilchrist speaking to the group. The evening included a CPR MANAWATU BRYAN ABRAHAM refresher demonstration. July began with the inaugural getThe Write Price carpark in Feilding was together of the branch Ladies Friendship the venue for the Daffodil Day car display Group, who met at a local café for morning which was supported by a good number of tea/brunch. The next day the Sunday members and other clubs and was followed Jaunt was in the form of a garage raid by an afternoon run which finished at the – taking members to see what progress clubrooms. Maurice Wasley was making on his
Manawatu: Members enjoying the branch Winter Wamer Dinner at the clubrooms.
Horowhenua: Red cars were most popular.
Horowhenua: A ride in the Jeep.
58 Beaded Wheels
Manawatu: Inaugural gettogether of the branch Ladies Friendship Group at a local Cafe.
Marlborough and Nelson cars lined up at the annual Snow Run.
Nelson: Catching up at the annual snow run.
MARLBOROUGH
LINDA LAING
The annual Snow Run to St Arnaud to meet up with Nelson Branch members was well attended, with a great turnout from Nelson. Our challenge between the two branches this year took the form of a pub style quiz. The next weekend was our annual Prize Giving at the Woodbourne Tavern. Trophies were handed out between courses. Unfortunately, the July motorcycle run was cancelled due to rain. August’s run was a short run to Picton to work in with a visit to a local shed. Twelve bikes took part.
Cutting of the Nelson 60th anniversary cake by Ken and Geoff Morris.
Nelson Fronty. The Bell’s 1915 Model T speedster parked up at Lake Rotoiti on the snow run.
NELSON
CAROLYN BOLLAND
It is with deep regret that we announce the recent passing of Gordon Dacombe, Assistant Club Captain and stalwart of our club. Another AGM done and dusted for the Nelson Branch with an excellent attendance of 50 plus members, but the treasurer and club captain positions are still to be filled. The clubrooms are now sporting a new audio-visual system, which will lead to better hearing with the use of a roving
microphone. There is also a wide screen TV for movies and functions, and new heaters which will result in a much warmer room for those attending. A combined snow run to St Arnaud with Marlborough and West Coast members was held recently on a very frosty morning. After negotiating very treacherous roads we arrived in zero-degree temperatures to a warm, welcoming hall and great fellowship. This mid-winter day culminated in the afternoon with over 90 attendees
Nelson: Icy conditions at St Arnaud.
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Northland: The old car in the hall is our branch 1912 SCAR.
North Shore: Peter and Barbara Stubbs 1959 Galaxie Skyliner.
partaking in an interesting quiz led by the Marlborough Branch. July 21 saw more than 60 people attend the 60th anniversary luncheon at Seifried Estate Winery. A cacophony of chatter prevailed, with members sharing memories and updates about their cars and recent trips before lunch. Our very own Roger Lusby then entertained us with his witty poems. His take on John Masefield’s ‘Sea Fever’, pertaining to our branch, another about his Model A Henry and his 83-yr old Chrysler, and the third a satire on members present. The anniversary cake was cut by the Morris twins, Ken and Geoff. Geoff joined the Nelson branch in 1965 and Ken three months later in 1966.
Northland: Daffodil Rally for Cancer.
NORTHLAND Northland: Daffodil Rally for Cancer.
Northland: Parts shed refurb.
North Shore: 1924 Dennis Bus.
60 Beaded Wheels
RAY SANDERS
The winter months in Northland saw the Parts Team, under the guidance of Lawrence Hillier and Kevin Wing, embark on a program of upgrading the lower parts shed. This old lean-to to the main shed had always been fairly basic, with a gravel floor and just a farm gate on the front for security. The upgrade involves making a concrete ramp down to the shed along with a concrete floor and a new roller door. The only problem with pouring a new concrete floor is that many tons of parts have to come out first, and these then have to be temporarily stored somewhere else in a secure and dry environment. This has involved weeks of work as well as relocating stored vehicles to make temporary space. Our 110-year-old SCAR has been re-located into the hall, where it makes a great addition to the décor. A lot more work will need to be done, with the floor to be poured and the shelving installed before relocation of the parts, but the result will serve us well for years to come.
Daffodil day was our best yet, with more than 70 cars from four car clubs taking part and raising $970. Northland Club Captain, Roger Billing, coordinated the event and took us on a 45km run out to Oakura beach, where the weather Gods smiled on us. It was great to have a fabulous mix of cars and enthusiasts from the various clubs all together and enjoying the cars and the beach. Due to the success I am sure we will use the same format next year.
NORTH SHORE RICHARD BAMPTON Julie Croft and Graham Darby in Julie’s 1954 MG TF, and Barb Stubbs in their 1959 Galaxie, attended the Waikato Branch annual Double Fifty Rally. The Galaxie’s new header tank split along a solder line, but that did not stop the weekend being enjoyed, albeit a little more slowly than planned. Nine cars and 16 members braved inclement weather on the July run, starting at Parakai Hot Springs and travelling up to Shelly Beach for morning tea. Here we watched the waves on the Kaipara Harbour get bigger and bigger, before we returned south to the Helensville Museum and its six buildings, all with different themes. One told the tragic story of an accident in the Brynderwyn Hills, when a wooden framed bus crashed down a 30-metre bank resulting in the loss of 16 lives. As a result no more wooden framed buses were built. That is until branch members recreated the 1924 Dennis wooden framed Birkenhead Transport bus that is our pride and joy. Bullitt was the feature film for a Wednesday evening film night, with an interesting Austin factory film in support. The Daffodil Day event, which was run jointly with Warkworth/Wellsford and Waitemata branches, started from
the North Shore Airfield and ended at Matakana. Although the start and end points were the same as previous years, the route which initially took us along the very scenic gravel roads leading to Puhoi then took us along the old SH1, has now been replaced by the new high speed four lane SH1, which with little traffic is wonderful for our older cars.
OTAGO
MARION MCCONACHIE
Our Annual Prizegiving was held as part of our Annual Dinner this year. Congratulations to Merv Thomson on receiving his 35-year Badge, and to Alistair Drummond on receiving the Chairman’s Award. As our Bar Manager he has consistently been on board whenever the clubrooms are open. Our midweek lunch time runs continue to draw some 20 to 25 members. We went to Lawrence in July and Moeraki in August – both balmy winter days with sunshine and no wind. It’s nice to see some of our new members attending these. A great way to get to know them better. One such member is working on a vintage Dodge that has been in a shed for the past 20 years. We look forward to seeing it out on our runs.
The National Rally for Cancer was our focus recently. Despite the wet weather we were supported by about 70 vehicles for either a short or slightly longer run to Wingatui Racecourse for a public display. Not a lot of VCC members on the run, but we had good support for marshalling and other duties. The local scout group put on a welcome barbecue at the Racecourse. A Model T, a muster of Morris Minors, a trio of Triumphs, Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis were just a few of the makes on show. The following day 24 of our members helped to deliver preordered daffodils to businesses, schools, rest homes and the university. An interesting way to find out about who and what occupies some of the many historic and institutional buildings around the city. On Daffodil Day David Mills had his Austin 7, filled with fresh daffodils, on display in a shopping mall. We also displayed our branch banner, which helped create a talking point for all those people walking past. The Cancer Society is so grateful for all the support we have given them over the past week.
ROTORUA
RONALD MAYES
Our July swap meet was a resounding success. By next year the facilities at the Paradise Valley raceway will have markedly improved, with more toilets and a functioning public address system. Cars-In-The-Room at monthly meetings have included new member Mario Klutman’s Ford Model A phaeton and Hayden Duncan’s Hillman Hunter estate car. For the August meeting the writer woke up his long-unused Super-8mm projector and screened the film he had made of the 1980 International Rally, based in Rotorua. Members in 670 vehicles spent two weeks in the Bay of Plenty and could be seen everywhere, quietly going about their business. He noted that every vehicle seen in the film would now be VCC eligible. The evening finished with a short film of the 1972 delivery of a, now withdrawn, 1969 Standard class railcar from Wellington to the Glenbrook Vintage Railway, its new owner. The railcar now operates from the railcar preservation centre in Pahiatua. A grand turnout of cars, from Tauranga, Eastern Bay of Plenty, Taupo and beyond, joined us at the Rotorua Historic Village in July. Robinson Avenue in Holdens Bay had probably never seen so many VCC cars
Otago: David Ross Quiz master.
Otago: Graeme Duthie presenting Alistair Drummond with Chairman’s Award.
Otago: David Mills’ Austin 7 at the Mall on Daffodil Day.
Rotorua: Stationary engine in action.
Rotorua: Mario Klutman’s Ford Model A.
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parked in the street. In the museum a very early running stationary petrol engine was of interest to many. Ngongotaha might by now have the highest proportion of VCC-eligible RollsRoyces of any town in the country, with the recent purchase of a 1956 Silver Cloud by a Rotorua branch member. It joins a 1933 20/25, three Silver Shadows and a 1994 Bentley. The annual Sulphur City Rally will have been held at the end of August, and promising numbers of entries have been received. On Sunday 26 January 2025 our Lakefront car show will again raise money for the St John Ambulance Association.
SOUTH CANTERBURY
SHANNON STEVENSON
The guest speaker at our July Noggin night was Richie Tompkins, an automotive enthusiast who has travelled widely and has amassed a variety of historic automotive posters and memorabilia. A number of our members participated in the annual garage raid, hosted this year by North Otago branch. The annual quiz night with Ashburton Branch took place at our clubrooms on 5 August, with Wayne Young on quizmaster duties. There were several close rounds between teams, with the winning team consisting of Ross Parker, Grant Mehrtens, Alan Ferguson and Ross Hamilton. A trials event, organised by Kevin Mercer, took place in August at Bruce Washington’s property at Rosewill. This
attracted a number of members driving specially prepared older vintage vehicles on challenging and muddy farm terrain. The mid-week runs are proving popular, the July run taking members on a trip to Gordons Valley and Southburn, and the August run taking members on a round trip via Temuka and Pleasant Point, the end venue being the Timaru Indoor Bowling Stadium. Our Daffodil Rally for Cancer took place on Sunday 25 August, attracting a variety of cars from the 1920s to the 2020s. The run took participants through Timaru and the surrounding hill country in the direction of Cave and the Pareora Gorge, the end venue being the grounds of the Holme Station homestead near Southburn. On the following day a number of our members took part in daffodil deliveries, distributing these throughout Timaru.
SOUTH OTAGO
South Canterbury: 1931 Ford Model A, Daffodil Rally, Holme Station.
South Canterbury: Barry Smith’s 1959 Studebaker Lark, Daffodil Rally, Holme Station.
NOELINE MILNE
Members and friends have enjoyed outings on the first Wednesday of each month. July was a run to the Waihola area navigating some roads not familiar to the travellers. Places visited included Dean’s Pantry on Findlayson Road, where Pam retails a selection of jams and pickles. On the main highway in the Milburn area there was an opportunity to visit the Vatacan, a restored church now used as a residence, where an array of beautiful glassware with embellishments is for sale. In Milton the selection of toy vehicles available at the business of Daza’s garage was well worth a visit.
South Canterbury: Wayne Jones’ Mini Estate alongside a Ford Cortina Mk2 Daffodil Rally, Caroline Bay, Timaru.
August outing was the 11th anniversary of our Wednesday run, with a trip to Lawrence which began at the clubrooms then travelled to Clarksville where we met the Milton members, and then proceeded on SH8. The Tuapeka Goldfields museum was open for those who wished to visit and learn some history of the area, with afternoon tea at the Prospector. The committee have preparations well in hand for the 52nd annual Clutha rally on 9 November and we look forward to welcoming all along.
TARANAKI
Taranaki: Member Lynette McComb with her recently purchased 1961 Morris Major Deluxe.
62 Beaded Wheels
COLIN JOHNSTON
We extend a warm welcome to two new members. Toni Farquhar from Waitara who has a 1954 Buick, and Amy Rijumanaq who has bought an Austin Eight from the Cornwalls and has six Jawa motorcycles. Our Sunday club run in July was a visit to Peter and Angela George’s family collection of steam vehicles, including a truly
magnificent 1912 traction engine called The Mistress, all fired up and breathing steam for us to admire. The Mistress is a three-speed compound traction engine which weighs 14 tons and has a maximum speed of 12mph. The George family own three traction engines as well as a 1922 Stanley Steamer car that is restored and on show. Also displayed was a fairground steam pipe organ that played several tunes for us. The collection included model steam trains and model farm equipment with lots of memorabilia of the steam days. Our bi-monthly mid-week run took members to the South Taranaki town of Patea where we were shown the historic Hunter Shaw building. This building was built with funds bequeathed to the council in 1927. New members Bill Mobbs and Lynette McComb were in attendance. Lynette drove her newly acquired 1961 Morris Major Deluxe, and Bill’s 1939 Ford barrel nose V8 was impressive. The Maunga Moana 60th Diamond celebration rally is being held on 21/22 March 2025 and will centre on the Plymouth International Hotel which is offering discounted accommodation.
TAUPO
Taupo: MGs on display at the hobby expo.
Taranaki: 1912 Averling & Porter three speed compound traction engine that’s called The Mistress owned by the George family of New Plymouth.
GREG NATTRASS
Our month started with an event prepared by our rally sponsor Taupo Brake and Clutch. They opened their yard for a Caffeine and Cars morning. This was open to all the car clubs in Taupo. A great show of cars as well as a chance to catch up with other enthusiasts. The traditional start of month breakfast was held at café lacus. Club night saw guest speaker Graham Seay, a local earthmover and quarry owner, telling us the history of his family setting up the business and growing it to where it is now, a civil construction company with many large projects here and around our region. Our branch participated in the local Hobby Expo with a collection of five MGs of varying ages, always a good public relations exercise. The month closed with the petrol heads outing for their morning tea, this time they visited L’Arte Café on the outskirts of Taupo. Our club night in August was the midwinter Christmas potluck dinner. As always, a great meal was put together by those present. Later this month is the VCC National day with our branch planning a show and shine, with a run to follow.
WAIKATO
HUGH MCINALLY
Many of the past listed club events have been put on hold in the interim. The club committee has looked closely at the many runs that used to be organised, and trimmed back to one club run a month, along with a once-a-month Wednesday Wander run. There is a proviso that if members want to organise an additional run, then they are more than welcome to do that, and will get all the assistance they need from the branch. Our club night is the second Wednesday of the month, and the committee does its best to organise an interesting guest speaker. One of the main events for the club in the new year is the North Island Easter Rally in March 2025. The main organisers are Greg Terrill (New Plymouth International Rally Chairman) and Graham Pate (Waikato Branch Chairman). I gather the North Island Easter Rally hasn’t been on the events calendar for quite some time, so good to see it is listed again. If you have nothing to do on a Thursday each week then pop along to the clubrooms and join the ever-increasing number of members who come along to assist with various jobs in the new workshop or to do
Waikato: Typical Thursday gathering at the Waikato Shed Day.
Taranaki: Members’ cars parked outside the Historic 1927 Hunter Shaw library building in Patea South Taranaki.
Beaded Wheels 63
maintenance around the clubrooms. The highlight is the illustrious morning tea that is put on by Heather (club secretary) and her many helpers.
WAIMATE MAUREEN CHAMBERLAIN The last few weeks have been busy again, and with the weather starting to get warmer we are looking forward to Spring and Summer. In July we hosted the Henry Ford birthday event, with a car show at the community market and a run for lunch. Members attended a garage raid hosted by the North Otago Branch. August has been full-on, with the club organising a barbecue and car display at the community market in Waimate for Daffodil day. The same evening we hosted a quiz evening at the local club rooms. A relaxing and enjoyable evening with supper to follow. Sunday was the scooter run leaving again from the club rooms with a 70km round trip for a barbecue lunch. On Monday members gathered again to deliver daffodils for the Cancer Society. The weekend was busy, but all in the name of the Cancer Society who will be the recipient of all profits and donations. Our monthly mid-week run seem to be working well so will continue over the summer months.
WANGANUI
IAN HIGGINS
We sadly advise the passing of our Patron and oldest member Alan Bates, who was close to celebrating his 100th birthday. He was a gifted mechanic who had restored many desirable vehicles during his 50 plus years of VCC membership. His prized 1951 Austin A40 Sports convertible was proudly displayed in the foyer of the chapel at the funeral service. Alan and his late wife Leonie, and in later years his son, rallied extensively throughout New Zealand. RIP Alan. Following a recent Sunday Run we held a High Tea at our clubrooms as a fundraiser for a small group of young women selected to represent New Zealand at the World Skate Games (rink hockey) in Italy. One is a VCC member, along with her mother Eilidh Pitkethley, who is an accomplished caterer and club stalwart. Prior to this Shane and Noeline Hobman organised a run around the city, ending up at Shane’s new vehicle restoration business KJS Autos. Recently Chairman Andrew Dittmer and his wife Sue, from Marton, opened their garage doors for readers to have a peek inside, and to share their history with the VCC. They are Austin fans, and their pride and joy, a 1937 A10 ute, stands supreme among four other projects. Andrew is a former RNZAF aircraft technician, so the workings of wee Austins must be a breeze for him to repair. The other member to be interviewed for our Rivet was Hunterville man Peter Wilton. He is the proprietor of Wilton Panel and Paint, a vehicle restoration business.
He has a number of customer projects on the go, including a 1956 Plymouth Savoy. Peter has several Fords in his private collection, including a very smart 1917 Model T. His favourite appears to be his much- rallied 1929 Model A.
WELLINGTON
JOHN STOKES
We’ve come a long way since 1979, when the world’s first remote-control dog was demonstrated on Country Calendar. The potential for getting in behind then was obvious, so readers will be delighted to learn that the pursuit of automation in farming has continued. The August club night guest speaker Garry Peek (Peek Robotics) demonstrated his robot, built in Lower Hutt – the region becoming central to New Zealand’s advanced technological achievements. As is clear from the photo, it’s not a doggie this time, but an EV. Pre-programmed, and guided by twin GPS sensors, it is accurate to within a few centimeters. It will do anything from mowing the lawns to spraying the crops and, if it is feeling a little flat, it will even charge its own batteries. Meanwhile, further north in Upper Hutt, the Kapiti mid-week crew visited the recently opened Cars Inc Museum in Trentham. Around 30 members joined in for lunch at the museum café before stepping into the museum hall, where we found 63 cars on display — all beautifully presented. Mustangs, Corvettes, T’birds, Cadillacs and Chevrolet feature, so if you like American muscle this place
Waimate: Scooter Run participants.
64 Beaded Wheels
Wanganui: Alan Bates’ Austin A40 Sports.
Wanganui: Pete Wilton’s Model A.
Wanganui: The Dittmer’s Austin A10 ute.
Wellington: Ian Thomson (left) and Kevin Buck at Car Inc with a rare Kaiser Manhattan.
Wellington: Garry Peek and his agrarian robot.
is for you. There’s some Aussie muscle there too, in the form of a gorgeous GTR-XU1 Torana, and two SS Commodores, built in New Zealand to compete in the 1982 B&H race. They’re pretty cool cars, but to me the coolest of the lot was one of the 1974 Commonwealth Games cars presented in original condition. The Games cars were all HQ Holdens in white, with 253-V8 power, Trimatic transmission and Rostyle wheels. Few survive.
Wellington: Unrestored HQ Holden 1974 Commonwealth Games car at Cars Inc.
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s Wellsford Warkworth Seen here sending cars off for the day for the Winter Woollies Wander is Doug Hamilton. Doug is one of the senior members of the ▼ Wellsford-Warkworth Branch and owner of a red 1904 Cadillac among others, which he uses/displays frequently. At our Winter Woollies rally he was Tailend Charlie and our branch reporter, Chris Harvey, rode with him in his modern SUV.
Fittingly, this car was displayed with other paraphernalia reminiscent of the ’74 Games.
WELLSFORD-WARKWORTH
CHRIS HARVEY
The Winter Woollies Wander is our major rally of the year. For 2024 the start and finish were in Wellsford, the stamping ground of last year’s local winner who was tasked with arranging this year’s event on 6 July. We used the Wellsford RSA as the base, and it was ideal for the start, the finish and the rally dinner, with lots of space for parking.
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. 66 Beaded Wheels
Of the 38 entries 11 were non-competitive, and folk in the open roadsters arrived well rugged up against the cold and showers at this time of year. Fortunately the showers were light and laid the dust without causing much mud. From Wellsford the rally took a devious route to Mangawhai via backroads offering spectacular views of the countryside. We crossed over SH1, and followed more serpentine roads which only a local could know, to reach the school at Matakohe for a very welcome hot lunch. We then returned to Wellsford by a different route. The overall winners were John and Janice Gardner of Auckland Branch who are making a habit
Allen, Ivan Bay of Plenty Bates, Alan Wanganui Bayly, John Waikato Boucher, Ken Canterbury Bowen, Tom Bay of Plenty Cook, Gary Canterbury Copland, Errol Gore Creighton, Noeline Manawatu Dawson, Reginald (Bill) Taupo Greer, Roy Waikato Harkness, M B (Bernie) Ashburton Harrison, Alton Horowhenua Jelley, Bill Central Otago
of winning our rallies. Local winners were Les and Valda Paddison. The RSA put on a delicious rally dinner with musical entertainment and the evening was enjoyed by all. For our midweek activities we have enjoyed lunches at the Warkworth Bridge House and the Wade Hotel in Silverdale, and it won’t be long before we get back to beach picnics. We held our annual prizegiving at our Club Night in August, although sadly our intended speaker had to withdraw because of ill health.
Kidd, Donald (Sandy) Southland Lloyd, George Wellsford/Warkworth Martin, Marise North Otago Millington, Wayne (Ben) Horowhenua Munro, Alastair Central Otago Norquay, Graham Canterbury Paterson, David Ashburton Power, Grahame Wellsford/Warkworth Stewart, Alister Central Otago Ward, Grant North Otago Webber, Joe Gisborne Wood, Doug Bay of Plenty Worsnop, KIna Gisborne
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