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MAY 2001

The

Victorian Military Vehicle Corps Inc.

Newsletter A 5955

V ictorì'i¡¡~(i.............'.......'.............-.. ....'.'......d .'_'d"'_.'_',.

.....ehicle CorpsMAY 2001.

OFFI CE BEARERS:.

CO-OPTED MEMBERS:

VICE PRESIDENT:Don Ashton

EDITOR:Bev KerslakePO Box 327PAKENHM 3810Email: bevk~dcsi.net.au

(03) 5941 3707Fax: (03) 5940 1673

PRESIDENT:Lionel Smart (03) 9758 2748Email: lionelsmart~hotmaii.com

(03) 59624587

SECRETARY:Brian Brown (03) 9436 9016PO Box 367

RESERVOIR 3073Email: brivon37~yahoo.com.au

TRIP COMMITTEE:Don AshtonAlfBrooksMichael KaukasTerr Oakley

Lionel Smart

(03) 5962 4587(03) 9459 0139(03) 9870 8287(03) 9888 1260(03) 9758 2748

TREASURR:Michael Kaukas (03) 9870 8287Mail address: VMVC Treasurer

6 Avalon Grove,RIGWOOD 3134

CATERING OFFICER:Ian Eddy (03) 9778 4097

VEHICLE INSPECTION OFFICER &AOMC DELEGATE: Henr Davies (03) 9878 5411

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:Alf BrooksHenr Davies

Ian Eddy

(03) 9459 0139(03) 9878 5411(03) 9778 4097

LIBRA/QUARTERMASTER:John Brown (03) 9758 5964ASST. QUARTERMASTER:Graeme Kerslake (storage of some heavy items)

Meetings held at RATS OF TOBRUK HAL, 44 Victoria Avenue, ALBERT PAR - first Tuesday of the month.No meeting in Januar.WEB SITE: ww.geocities.com/vmvcjeepCONTACT: Anthony Ick - Email: ick~hotkey.net.au OR 33 Parakeet Road, WERRBEE 3030

WE WELCOME THE FOLLOWINGNEW MEMBERS. . . . . .

I TChO~~l~ .,.... f. h . - 'C'b- T fle 'mi itary' content 0 t e recent iu our 0Victoria.

Alexander McPherson #35621 Wynette AvenueUPPER FERNTREE GULLY 3156PHONE: (03) 9704 0998

L to R: Graeme Kerslake (Dodge CommandCar); Ian Jarrott (Dodge Weapon Carrier);Don Bailey (Dodge Weapon Carrier);Andrew Hammond (Jeep).Where were all the Victorian Jeeps?Graham Shirley JP #357

15 Bowen Mt RoadGROSEVALE NSW 2753PHONE: (02) 4572 1643

The Editor reserves the right to amend, edit or delete any articles or items submitted for publication in the Newsletter.

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MAY5&6SAT & SUN

MEETING TOBRUK HOUSE - 8.00 pm

BEECHWORTH DRIVE BACK IN TIME - At Queen Victoria Park, lots ofentertinent and stalls, etc. Make your own way there. For fuher info contact

Ian Downs (03) 5728 1272.

MAYI-TUE

MAY 27 _ SUN AUCTION - GOLDEN CITY COLLECTORS are holding an auction ofmiltaraat Qua Hil Communty Hall, Hamlet Street, Quar Hil (Bendigo). RingKen Champion (03) 54353880 for details or if

you have anything to auction.

JUNE 5 - TUE MEETING TOBRUK HOUSE - 8.00 pm

JULY 3 TUE MEETING TOBRUK HOUSE - 8.00 pm

FOR SALE

JU 1942 W IC 56

DODGE CO.MthMAon.gi. alCwireiess, has freehWmhoe;; h~:;yC ...plete WI and mUC .0.... W h7es & battery ri d as totalyfull canvas, ne '1- iùy be desc e1 nues from neW. Can 0 hout An extremelYoW . . al throug .immaculate ~d ongl~c1e. Reg No CH 1651 Alanrare and desirab1e ve

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FOR SALE

1942 FWD SU COE prime mover. Waukeshamotor, RH drve for British WD contract.Thought sent to Australia for Maralinga atomictests in the '50s. Rare trck, in fair conditioncan supply location of second trck, suit spares.$1,200 ONO

Round front section from ww Freightersemi-trailer $100.Blitz winch C/W mountings $400.5 English Bren wheels $120 the lot.Col Anderson #13 - (03) 5821 3258

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FOR SALE

1943 Studebaker 6x6 cargobody fitted with PTO.

.' I very littleStraight pane s,rust excell set of hod bows& ta'rp. No seating, but seatbracket avail for template.Runs well, unroadworthy.Engine No DK 1692409 -$2,400Les Carver #308(02) 6071 0256 Talangatt

00000000000000000000000ooo

FOR SALE oo

~ Aust Jeep trailer. No floor or tow ring, ~o tailgate cut into back. Best offer. 0o Les Lee - (03) 9792 1918 0o

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o00000000000000000000000

IFOR SALE

ak Ary Battledress JacketsKh . 94 97R as new2 X 1981 Size - $24 the lot1 X 1950 Size 01 #~~(~;~5986 4929Geoff Anderson

FOR SALE

Dodge WC56 Weapon Carer righthand drve. New canvas, good tyes,non-origial body in excellent conditionno rust. Reg No CH 3359. $7,000 ONOGraeme KersJake #71 - (03) 5941 3707

WANTED

Jeep blackout driving light

Greg Martin#295(02)44711391

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Wanted

e Truck, anyLend-Leas1942-45 Chev leads to same.anels orpars, p seats for

6 6 trOOp . .GMC/Stude x llent condition~~~~o 1b ~nch in ~:~; 5629 9494

Mattei #5Des

Photo shoot - Corowa week-end

from Don BaileyIt was now time to check in at their Rich River Caravan Parkfollowed by sightseeing in Echuca and a ride on a paddle boat.After the boat ride Ian decided to head for Corowa so he couldparticipate in the Friday ru.

CLUB TOUR 2001DA Y 1 - WEDNESDAY

Leaving home about 8.15 am along the very busy EasternFreeway it was a slow trip to Port Melboure. On arrivalI found the Tasmanian contingent already on dr land.

Unfortately only one Jeep made it, the other thee - one withsuspected big end trouble 15 klm out of

Devonport, one with a

blown head gasket prior to departing from Hobar and the thirdJeep restoration not quite completed in time.

Nice to see John Sanders in the welcoming par. He had taenhis holidays so as to be a par of

the trp but due to some healthproblems had to pull out at the last minute. (Covered someterrific lookig fishing spots too John, so next time hope to seeyou there)

After renewing friendships with our visitors and a few causticcomments about the reliabilty of Jeeps, it was time to head for theWestgate Bridge and the Western Rig Road racetrck. Onarval at the morning tea stop we were met by Maree and Berrie

van der Geer and Margaret and Darell Wise who had to hire a carand trvel modem. Also, a phone call from Ian Jarott deter-mined that he was about to leave home and would join us at

Puckapunyal Tan Museum.

Heading up the highway we passed under the automatic speedindicator and the average seemed to be about 70 klm. Nextstop was for lunch at the servo on the highway near Seymour.After lunch it was just a short ru to Pucka where we stopped tocheck out the recently dedicated National Servicemen's Me-morial, then it was on to the Tan Museum. A lot of changes andimprovements since I was last there. Aftercheckig out the display it was decided to have a quick cuppa.

Graeme Kerslake and I decided to do a short circuit of our oldNational Service areas. No canvas marquees, permanent

buildings now on the site. Graeme was in the l4th Battlion

(Arilery), while I was in the 20th Battlion (Transport), hence the

vehicle attchment. After a bit of reminiscing, and a drve pastvarous points of interest, we rejoined the group at the museumand dragging Ian out, we headed out the back gate and on toHeathcote for our first overnight stop. It was decided to have din-ner in the hotel where we were joined by local members Lou andAlan Hosie, Tex Wilson and Gordon Bennett.

DAY 2 - THURSDAY

Staed with the local constabular suggesting to our trp leader"That does drving a left hand drve vehicle prohibit hi fromangle parking?" Ha Ha. Some people have to show theirauthority. Anyway, it was all aboard for our ru to Rochester, upthe back road which was most enjoyable, very little traffc and agood road. We were soon at our morning tea stop outside aNursery which enabled the girls to check it out.

Then it was off to Echuca-Moama for our next stop - localmembers Mar and Ian Ledwidge's Museum and Winery for aninspection and lunch. (The museum was due to be offciallyopened on the 24 March.) A very nice spot and a great lunch.The wine tating seemed to hit the spot for the ladies while thefellas checked out the vehicles and memorabila displays whichare a credit to Mar and Ian.

i "'6~ -.

DAY 3 - FRIDAY

Departing at 8.30 am shar we headed off to Barah and th to

Strathmerton for our morning tea break. Taswegians late out ofthe blocks so missed morning tea, but caught up for lunch atMulwala. After some photos beside the lake, it was time for thelast 35 klm to Corowa. A very strong, hot, cross wind made thegoing tirg. After check-in at the caravan park, it was off

to Ball

Park to check out the vehicles and people who were already in thepark.

No sooner were we there than the word went around that threeAmphibs were due to arve from the Hume Weir. They had spentthee days on the river and made a great sight as they came downthe river and into the lagoon and fially out of

the water at the boat

ramp to a rousing thee cheers from all those present. Mr Kodakmade a forte again with cameras and videos working overtime.

The rest of the afternoon 1 spent catchig up with different onescamped at Ball Park.

While stading around talkg in "Dodge Comer" with Alan

Carenter, Glenn Stones and Ian Jarot, BMW Jeep owners Janand Ron Geddes joined us and decided to erect their tent nearby.Unfortately for Ron, in his haste to pack his camping gear, hemissed putting pegs and poles in! "Dodge Comer" ralled aroundand soon had him fixed up with temporar poles and pegs.

DAY 4 - SATURAY

Overnight we had some very heavy rain. After such a long, dr

Sumer it was nice to wake up to a clean, fresh atmosphere.Some of the campers got a bit damp - a couple having a lucky es-cape from a very large falling branch.

Assembly point for the photo shoot was the usual spot beside thebridge and very soon it was time to head off in convoy formationto Rutherglen. I had navigator Jan Geddes along for the ride andthen it was back to Corowa for a convoy up the main street, aroundthe clock tower and back to the swap meet site to tr and fmd abargain or two. My only purchase was two safety strps andcatches for the Dodge. After a lot of talkg and a ham-burger and sausage lunch couresy of the local Lions Club, we allseemed to wander back to Ball Park, congregating down on theriver where we watched the DUKW and Amphibs doing their thingin the river.

Many than to Jim and Jennie Bennie for a ride in the DUKWwhich took me back to the last time I had a ride in one on theMarbyrong River at the Henly on

Marbyrong festival some50+ years ago. Judging by the keen interest expressed by theTassie crew they also enjoyed their rides. We were thenentertined by a couple of daredevils doing their stuff though thelagoon and up the well-worn steep ban. The fit, the Land

Rover after a couple of goes made it, then the Humer had to havea go. After many tres he fially made it. .

Page 5

CLUB TOUR 2001 (Contd)

One of

the NSW guys, not to be outdone, had to have ago in his Jeep. Unfortately, he did not make it af-

ter stallng. The water was too deep to enable a star,

so it was a tow out for the Jeep by the Humer

Also seen getting a tow out of some mud was a certin halftonDodge. I am not sure who was to blame, the navigator Ken, orthe driver Luke. It took a Blitz to do the rescue bit.

DAY 5 - SUNDAY

9.15 am depare from Ball Park Caravan Park and we have

increased in number with Maxine and Bob Wilkens' Jeep andtrailer and Jan and Ron Geddes BMW Jeep who are going as faras the Bandiana Museum. Smooth trp to W odonga and morn-ing tea on the lawn outside the Museum. Then into the Museumand a terrfic display coverig the Boer War though to Vietnamwith a good vehicle display. I was very interested to see the Air.Despatch Display, as it was 15 Air Despatch Unit that I served indurg CMF days.

The main body moved off to Beechwort, while Maxine, Bob andI waited for the last person out of the Museum. You guessed it!Ian Jarott. On arival in Beechwort, fmding a parkig spot was

not easy. As usual, Sunday is always busy, paricularly theBakery, where we all had the mandatory pie or two, and vanilaslice or éclair - hey Bob? After a good look around and a fewpurchases, we finally headed for Bright.

Checking in completed, we walked down to the main shoppingarea. A very pleasant spot to come back to for a longer stay some

time in the futue. After a self-prepared meal, I had a

coffee and chat in the Kerslake cabin and a Muscrat or two. Onthe way back to my cabin I spotted a good fie going in the Tassiecontingent's cabins and I was told it was a good slab fie.

DAY 6 - MONDAY

Deparing from Bright all fuelled up, we headed for themountains.

Along the Ovens Valley a lot of tobacco being grown, all looking -nice and green.

After passing through Harietvile, we stared to climb towards Mt

Hotham. Road very windy and in some places, very narow.Only a few vehicles going the other way. Getting close to the top,unfortately the weather closed in and became very foggy and

showery. Morning tea was had at the Hotham CentralSupermarket, but the much talked-about views were non-existent.No chairlift rides so we pushed on to Diner Plain where theweather was just the same, so it was on to the new Diner PlainAirort before the fog lifted and we could get an idea of what the

high countr was really like. Another short break at a lookout

allowed us to take in the surounding high countr.

Next stop Omeo, down hil all the way. After settling in at thecaravan park I changed my spare wheel which had been in useon the rear of the Dodge. It has a badly bent outer ri so it hasbecome the permanent spare. (I am looking for a new strightspare!!) Darell, Lou and I did a Cooks tour of the backblocks ofOmeo. All we found was a large herd of horny Herefords being

drven along the road and boy, they were in tip, top condition.No Jeeps or Dodges sighted. Back to the caravan park wheresome Tassieites decided an afternoon sleep was in order. Ian

tred his luck fishing. Unfortately, no luck and lost a spining

lure as well.

Diner was enjoyed at the Golden Age Hotel and was anothergood meaL. The paintings around the hotel were very good, withsome being purchased the following morning from the arist'sstudio.

DAY 7 - TUESDAY

Leaving the high countr behind, it was more down hil ruing toSwifts Creek where we picked up the Tambo River which we fol-lowed for most of the way to Bruthen where we met Alan Car-penter in his Dodge No 2. Then on to Swan Reach and back onto the Princes Highway for the ru into Kalima where we had thecompulsory photo shoot of the lakes.

Back L to R:Front:

Lou Hanslow, Graeme Kerslake, Andrew Hanond Ian Jarott, Don BaileyGaylene, Margaret Wise, Bev Kerslake, Terese Hanond, Darell Wise,Maxine Wilkens, Maree van der Geer, Bob Wilkens, Berre van der Geer.Geoff & Heather DodgeAbsent:

Then it was down to LakesEntrce and on out to Lake

Tyers Beach for a picniclunch. The afternoon was free

to do your own thing.

After checking in at thecaravan park I did somesearching for our old home atKalima West. Unfortately

it has fially fallen down orbeen demolished. 1 thenwalked across the footbridgeto the ocean beach, which tookme back to the days of myyouth. Off to the local BowlsClub for another evening meal,

which once again was goodvalue.

CLUB TOUR 2001 (Contd)

DAY 8 - WEDNESDAY

Leaving Lakes Entrance we stopped at the lookout for afmal photo shoot of the entrance, and then on toBairsdale where we met Rick Cove who led us to the Pay-

nesvile waterfont for a brief stop and then on to his home tocheck out his vast collection of vehicles and memorabila.I thin his garage is even more diffcult to move around than

mine, much bigger too! Rick had aranged for the local pressto come and tae some photos and details of what we were upto. (Hope the story made the news Rick.) Thans also to Bev,Rick's wife, for coffee on the ru.

From Rick's it was off to the East Sale RA base the back way,via a lunch stop at Stratford. Unfortately here we strck thefirst serious rain of the trp. On our arival at East Sale we were

met by an RAF bus and drver who conducted us on a tour ofthe base. We all had a climb though a BEA HS748 tye air-craft used for navigator training, with a commentaby two base personneL. Also located on the base is the 4/19thPrce of Wales Light Horse consisting of thee APCs. The

W02 has put together a great display of the history of the unit

from early days until the present time.

From the base it was on to the caravan park and then to the RSLfor another good evening meaL.

DAY 9 - THURSDAY

Maxine and Bob Wilkens decided to head for Geelong via theferr across the heads. (Hope the ferr trip was a smooth one

Maxine!)

Leaving Sale we passed through Maffa and on to our morningtea stop at Glenmaggie Weir where there were some locals wait-ing for us to arve. The thee Dodges were lined up for a photo

shoot then joined by the one Tassie Jeep and all occupants for a

group shot.

It was then on to Walhalla via the back roads thoughToongabbie, Glengar, Tyers, etc. Walhalla has certinlyimproved since I was last there, with most buildings in the mainstreet looking freshly painted. .. After a mainly tae-away lunch,we headed for the Long Tunel Mine tour only to fmd out wewere a day early! Some of us then decided to head for theThompson rail station and the new railroad bridges over the river.Once again lots of photos.

I had decided to continue on to Morwell and spend the night withmy cousin, catching up with everyone the next morning at Trafal-gar.

DAY 10 - FRIDAY

Some heavy overnight rain in Morwell, but the Dodge seats weredr. Loading up in the light rain the day was not looking toogood, but I headed off to the highway, fortately now allduplicated, so I did not hold the traffc up. The rain seemed tobe heavier between Moe and Trafalgar, and did not ease offwhileI was waiting for the convoy to arve.

Page 6

It was decided to have morning tea at Trafalgar as there was notenough cover at Picnic Point. As John Belfield was away for theweek and some paricipants had left the convoy, we decided tocall it quits at Trafalgar and let the modems head off as Gay-lene and Lou were due at the ferr that night.

Margaret and Darrell and Terese and Andrew were staying inMelboure til Monday night, doing their own sightseeing thingand visiting relles. It was farewells all round after what was areally terrific ten days of great company, great people, great reli-abilty from the three Dodges and one Jeep that went the wholeway without any problems, plus those that joined us for some ofthe trp.

Many thans to Bev Kerslake who spent many hours planing thetrp, and to Graeme, (after much consternation) for being tripleader.

Next time 1 hope to see YOU on board as you sure have a lot oflaughs, and laughter is great medicine for the souL.

(Great to see the Dodge contingent outnumbering Jeeps for achange! !)

Technical Details

Fuel Costs: $380.00 (Dodge)Distance Travelled: 1,038 miles

Average Fuel consumption: 11.38 mpg

(It should be noted that some well-tuned vehicles notched upbetter mileage. Editor)

"Darren" attending to Andrew's Jeep at Bandianna

Page 7

THE ROLE OF THE RESTORED MILITARY VEHICLE IN THENEW MilLENNIUM - AN IN-DEPTH STUDY by Ken Morris

FORGET THE HEADLINE!! It'sonly to get your attention! This isreally about Corowa 2001. With

Luke driving and myself and Ishwar aspassengers we arrived at Corowa inthe half ton Dodge at approx 13:50 hrs.After a quick lunch we booked in at theBall Park complex and set up campand spent the afternoon relaxing.

Len Schutt and friend Bob arrived inLen's Chev Blitz (a rare CSAX) andthe rest of the afternoon was spent(as usual) talking, etc. After an earlynight, we rose on Friday and afterbreakfast, spent the rest of the dayshopping and socializing and diningout at a local hotel in the evening.Saturday it was up early for thestreet parade and photo session atRutherglen and Corowa, culminatingin a swap meet at Bangerang Park inCorowa. Very few parts available -unless you had a Jeep.

After lunch it was off to the river towatch a duck (DUKW) and amphibiousJeeps doing their thing.

The following section of this report onlyappears for two reasons -

1 I was unable to confiscate ALLphotographic evidence of "the

Incident". (See right Ken - Editor)

2 i was unable to buy the silence ofthe various witnesses to the above-mentioned "Incident".

"The Incident"

Luke suggested a drive along the riverbank, and after a short trip we followeda bush track back to the main track,passing into a mud hole which Lukeassured me he had recently passedthrough. Although only about 25 ftlong on a dry track, this mud hole wasable to stop the truck in its tracks.

Luke engaged front wheel drive, whichof course, he should have done beforeentering this section. I won't say the

truck wouldn't move, trouble is it wouldonly move in one direction -STRAIGHTDOWN. Ishwar, who was on hispush bike, was dispatched to find help,as our winch was inoperable. Hereturned with Len in his Blitzbut withoutLen's front axle shaftconnected, theBlitz wasof little help.

I didn't get the name of our benefactor,but am most grateful for his help. Oneconsideration was that I couldexit the truck quite easily, seeing therunning board was sitting on theground. This was not the first timethis truck has been bogged, and Idoubt it wil be the last. However, it allhelped with the day's entertainment.(Luke's courtmartial has beenarranged.)

On Sunday we packed up and left atapprox 10:00 hrs after anotherfantastic few days with like-mindedenthusiasts - and arrived safely homeafter an uneventful trip.

I am indebted to Col Anderson forsupplying the list of attending vehicles,also special thanks to the police forfacilitating our border crossing for thephoto session.

Ken Morris # 62

A N.S.W AMVCSmember arrivedwith a shortwheel base ChevBlitz with 10.00 or12.00 tyres fittedand pulled us outwith no effort.

VEHICLES ATTENDING: Courtesy of Col Anderson

It's hard to get an accurate count, particularly of Jeeps, which run around likeants, and never stay stil!

Chev Blitz - 3 Ford Blitz - 1 GPA Jeeps - 4Jeeps - 23 '39 Ford MH - 1 Jeep Trailers - 5Armoured Car - 1 DUKW - 1 GMC 6x6 - 1'42 3 ton Chev - 1 Dodge WC - 5 Inter AB 2% ton - 1HUMMVEE ex USAF - 1 Izuzu 6x6 truck - 1 '40 Chev Staff Car - 1RAF F100 Ambo -1 Land Rovers - 3 '42 WLA H.D. - 2German MC & push bike - 1 ea Army 4 wheel trailers - 2

Counting trailers - a total of 58.

Year 2002 will be the 60th Anniversary of the Cab 13 CMP "Blitz" trucks.As Australian forces received and used large numbers of these trucks, perhapswe would look for a record number for Corowa 2002. Col.

Ken's wheel after the "Incident"

YEA AUTUMN FESTIVAL - 1 APRILfrom Brian Brown

Alfbrooks, Graham Jacobs and myself

leftMil Park at 7.35 am and travelled thoughWhittlesea and Flowerdale with the tops off

the Jeeps. Though skies were overcast, it did not rainbut became very cold driving through the forest areas.

We arived at Yea at 8.50 am and after reporting tothe organisers we set up our static display in the centreof the road car park, along with many other cars andvintage motor cycles. We were joined later in themorning by two other members, Maurice Smith fromSeymour and John Guttidge from Yea.

The sun was now out and the day was perfect as wevisited the many stalls and activities, viewed all thevehicles and chatted with the public. Wherever we gowe always get asked the same question "How muchare Jeeps wort these days and can you stil buy

them?" It was soon lunch-time, so we traded in ourlunch passes for BBQ sausages with salads, bread andtea, coffee and cake. Very nice!

I was asked to do a ten minute interview on the localradio station which covers all areas from Yea toAlexandra, so they all now know about the VMVC.At 2.30 pm all vehicles, totaling 110, moved up toassemble for the grand parade. The parade moveddown one side of the main street then back up theother before moving back to our static position.

At about 3.30 pm the thee Musketeers decided to

head for home with Alf taking us back through StrathCreek for something different. It was a great day andwe look forward to it next year.

Brian Brown

rage 0

GREAT WINGS & WHEELS DAY -1 APRIL from David Marsh

Well, another great day - this one we

didn't know what to expect. We arvedat 9.00 am and the place had alreadystared to fil with one of the best

collections of old vintage, classic and historic motorvehicles and airplanes. There must have been aboutthree hundred vehicles plus by mid-day.

The day was well organizd by the RACV and therewere plenty of displays, and things to do and see witha smal but most enjoyable ai show. We had a goodshow of VMVC vehicles considerig there were otheroutigs on the same day.

I received a bottle of Granite Hils 1995 PiotChardonnay from the RACV for the presentation of myAustin staff car, that made my day.

This was the inaugural RACV Great Wings and WheelsDay at Lilydale aield - even with a $10entrance fee I think this event should be one tomark on your calendars for next year. A great daywas had by al who parcipated.

Vehicles attending-

1943 Ford Jeep110 Lad Rover

1943 Dodge WC1937 Austi 10 Staf Car1944 Ford Jeep &'Trailer1950 Lad Rover APA & Signals Trailer

David Marsh #346

THE BASIN CF A OPEN DAY - COMO GARENS PAR - 7 APRIL from David Marsh

We only found out about this outing at the April meetig, as it was a late invite it didn't make the Newsletter. Once againthere were other events on the same day, so a few members that live in the east put on a static display with their vehicles.When we arved at the CF A station to get directions, they obliged by escorting our convoy to the reserve, a magnficent

private propert of six hectaes at the foot of the Dandenong Rages. The owner of the propert let us set up our display at the mainentrance, so everyone that attended saw our vehicles before anyting else - great exposure for our Club.

The MG car club had a nice display of vehicles, as did the customline car club, there were also some early model Ford rods - very nice.The owner of the propert also had his private automobile collection on display - it was just something you would have to see to be-lieve. This collection is believed to be wort eight to ten milion dollars. The one vehicle that I fell in love with was a bright redMercedes Benz German staff car. I asked the owner ifhe would swap it for my Austin - he said he would thin about it. I'm stilwaiting.

The other great attaction were two model trains, one was steam the other a diesel locomotive. They ran on a track that snaked around

the propert. I must say it was a good way to have a look around as I had my two grandsons with me, aged 3 & 4. I had several rides,

a gold coin donation to the CF A got you on. The main trin drver was the owner of the propert (boys and their toys)

We had a BBQ lunch and afternoon tea supplied. It was most enjoyable, sitting back relaxing, lookig over the lake and tag in the

views this place had to offer. If the VMVC ever gets another invite to a fuction at this propert, I would urge all members to tr andsupport it, you won't be disappointed. A fantastic day was had by all who attended.Vehicles attending - Series 3 L/Rover, L/Rover Recoiless, L/R 1 10, L/R AP A, Toyota FFIt Austin i 0 Staff Car, Sigs Trailer.

Page 9

:From the PresídentThank you to all Members & familes who participatedin the following events:

SUNDAY 25 MARCH - SHOW & SHINE DAY - B24LIBERATOR HANGAR, WERRIBEE - Four vehicles inattendance

SATURDAY 31 MARCH - SCOUT EXPO SANDOWNRACECOURSE - Vehicles in attendance: Dodge WC '43,Ford Jeep '42, Ser 2 Recoiless Land Rover, Toyota FFR'63, Austin 10 Staff Car '37, Ford Jeep '44, Land Rover 110,Dodge WC '44, Harley Davidson Motor Cycle '42, Ser 3Land Rover, Land Rover 101 Fwd Control, Phone LayingTrailer '42.

Once again members were well looked after with mealsand drinks and a really great day was had by alL.

SUNDAY 1 APRIL - GREAT WINGS AND WHEELS DAY,L1L YDALE AIRFIELD -Six vehicles in attendance with two trailers.

Another very interesting and fantastic outing was had by allmembers.

SATURDAY 7 APRIL - THE BASIN CFA, MUSEUM &FESTIVAL AT COMO GARDENS PARK - A wonderfulday was had at this unbelievable venue for members andtheir familes. Six vehicles were in attendance.

SUNDAY 8 APRIL - WINCHELSEA RSL DEDICATIONCEREMONY - Eight vehicles left in convoy fromMelbourne, stopping for breakfast on the way, and arrivedat Winchelsea to find the RSL and the Geelong Military His-torical Society had a fantastic display set up all around thegrounds and inside the surrounding buildings. Well wortha trip just to see this great display and to hear about the in-teresting history of this area.

It rained heavily for a long time and it looked like theceremony and the re-enactment of Tobruk may becancelled. However, it fined up into a beautiful sunny dayand all events went ahead as scheduled. Total of 27 ve-hicles participated, plus heavy artilery, miltaria and memo-rabilia. I am sure all of our members and the public had avery interesting day to remember. Thank you one and allfor your participation in this event.

Lionel Smart #313

CHANTER ESTATE WINERY & MUSEUM OPENING - 24 Marchfrom Ken Morris

For me, this was the culmination of a long-held ambition - to present two vehicles at a fuction. Several members have

presented two or more vehicles over the years, but ths was a firt for me. So at 19:00 hrs we left Cockatoo with Lukeand Ishwar in the Power Wagon and older brother Jody and I in the 15 cwt Ford. After an uneventfl trip we arrved at

the Rich River Caravan Park, Moama at 23 :00 hrs and after an hour or so socialising, we retired for the night.

After breakfast Satuday, in glorious sunshine, we took the vehicles to our display area adjacent to the winery. The winery is a100 year old church, relocated from Rochester, with the museum building adjoining. Soon after 14:00 hrS Bruce Ruxton and theMuray Shire Mayor, Brian Shar, opened the complex. Free food and wine were supplied, and obviously a pleasant tie was hadby all.

The museum is well laid out with a mezzine floor also housing several exhibits. The presentation of vehicles is excellent with a

wide diversity of makes and models present. After an excellent meal at a local hotel, we retued to the Park and retired for thenight.

Sunday we rose and retued the vehicles to the Park, assisted by Tim who had arived on Satuday evening. We all left at

approximately 10:00 hr and had an uneventfl trip home. It was good to catch up with Gaston and Cheryl Saint after long break.

Vehicles attending - Humber Staff Car, Champ Field Car, Dodge Power Wagon, Ford 15 cwt Truck

Ken Morris #62

ruge 1 U

WC41- SAVED FROM THE GRAVE

Some years ago while restoring my T2 i 2Canadian Dodge, I was on the scrounge

I(ir purts. At the time I made a phone callto Bob (I've !(lUnd another MV) Schuttwho was restoring his Marmon HerringtonY: tonner. A short time bter Bob phoned totell me of a closed cub Dodge he hadlocated while looking!(ir u hody I(ir hisproject, The vehicle turned out to be aWC41' Dodge which uses the same longwheelbase chassis as the Y: T ambulance.Although the cab had sullered substantialnlst inlestation the tnlck was complete andon wheels. ()n closer inspection I was ableto distinguish the originul USAregistration number WOOX(í I (í on the

bonnet which made it one of the last batchof 77 WC4 I's completed in i 942 oncontract number W39XQMI1592. Bothdoors had an X inch diamond shape withthe letters DWH. Further searching locatedan original number plate A WC 34855screwed to the seat base. A ground uprestowtion was the order of the day, so thetruck was stripped to a hare chassis. Thetnlck bears testimony to many years ofhard work and abuse and its durability ofdesign. The chassis required new rearcross-members because of previous abuseand these were located with the help ofRon Sutton and in lact to date I've had twotwiler loads of parts Irom Ron. After

replucing rusted-out inner railreinl(ircements and a sandblast and paintthe chassis was linished. I have been ableto repair most of the nlnning gear over thelust lew years so I was able to assemblesullcient to make a rolling chassis withinsevewl weeks. The cab was completely

By Warren Kerle.

stripped ready I(ir panel beating. The rearcab /1oor was completely nlsted away Iromthe rear pillars so another /1oor was graftedin, courtesy of Ron Sutton. Thanks Ron. Anew header panel was located andinstalled along with a windscreen Irame.With lirewall and interior painted, the barecab shell has been remounted on the

chassis. The next item was the engine.

Unl(irtunately, engines are not made to nlnon water so it was evident that a largewallet would be required to repair it. Aphone call to (Jary Jorgensen, revealed thepossibility of a good nlnner. The trip to(jary netted many other much needed partsbut unfortunately, no engine I(ir me. I

decided on a complete rebuild of theoriginal engine which has been completedand now sits in the chassis. I had quite asurprise while repairing the steering box.

The previous owners obviously had troubleadjusting it so in desperation they weldedthe housing together! The steering tubewas packed full of nlst and dirt. While

restoring the steering box of my T2 12, Ihad the same trouble. After much to-ingand tro-ing I was able to put a cleaning rodthrough the tube revealing a live revolver?Bullet!!! With this experience in the backof my mind I proceeded with caution.Again, after much work this time a live3m bullet dated 1945. I know they callthese tnlcks weapons carriers, but I thinkthis is taking things too lar!! So restorers

beware - you could he canying liveammunition!!!! The wiring was in lairIycomplete original condition. After muchchecking and adding missing piecessullcient to reproduce, the original was

sent to Darcy Miller. Both Ron Sutton andI were keen to have an original hamess

and Darcy has done a spot on job. Thanks!(ir your e/lirt Darcy. I am now up to thestage of starting the engine I(ir the tirsttime. I wonder how long since it has beennln - if only these old tnlcks could talk!

Research on the tnlck's servce history hasso lar drawn a blank. The chassis numberis in the same batch as those used by theAustralian Any, but why did it retain theUSA registration number? Was there abatch of vehicles supplied by the USA toaid in the airtield and road constnlction?

Did it go straight to service with the AlliedWorks Council? After several repaints inolive drab, the last colour was orange, forthe Department of Works and Housing. Ihave managed to talk to the owner of theonly other known WC4 I, in England, withthe view to ohtaining int(irmation on thefuel tank peculiar to WC41 and also on theemergency repair body. Unfortunately, heis reluctant to help me as he believes thateveryone will make one and therel(iremake his vehicle less valuable!*?*?! Anyinl(irmation, comments, photos, contacts'.;ould be appreciated.

Reproduced with Author'spermission.

ru¡;i: ß U

WC41- SAVED FROM THE GRAVE

Some years ago while restoring my T2 1 2

Canadian Dodge, I was on the scrounge

for parts. At the time I made a phone callto Boh (I've fÒund another MV) Schuttwho was restoring his Marmon HerringtonY. tonner. A short time later Bob phoned totell me of ii closed ciib Dodge he hadlocated while 100kingliJr ii hody lìJr hisproject, The vehicle turned out to be aWC4 I . Dodge which uses the same longwheelbase chassis as the Y.T ambulance.

Although the cab had sullered substantialrust inlestation the truck was complete andon wheels. ()n closer inspection I was ableto distinguish the original USAregistration number WOOR6 i 6 on thebonnet which made it one of the last hatchof 77 WC4 i's completed in i 942 oncontract number W:l9R()MI1592. Bothdoors had an R inch diamond shape withthe letters DWH. Further searching locatedan original numher plate A WC :l4R55

screweù to the seat hase. A grounù uprestoration was the orùer of the ùay, so thetruck was stripped to a bare chassis. Thetruck hears testimony to many years ofhard work and ahuse and its durahility ofdesign. The chassis required new rearcross-memhers because of previous ahuseand these were locateù with the help ofRon Sutton and in lact to date I've had twotrailer loaùs of parts from Ron. Afterreplacing rusted-out inner railreinliircements and a sandblast and paintthe chassis was linished. I have heen ahleto repair most of the running gear over thelast lew years so I ,vas iible to assemble

sullcient to make a rolling chassis withinseveral weeks. The cah was completely

By WaITen Kerle.

stripped ready for panel heating. The rearcah l100r was completely rusted away Iromthe rear pillars so another l100r was graftedin, courtesy of Ron Sutton. Thanks Ron. Anew header panel was located andinstalled along with a winùscreen lrame.With lirewall and interior painted, the harecah shell has been remounteù on the

chassis. The next item was the engine.

Unliirtunately, engines are not made to runon water so it was evident that a largewallet would be required to repair it. Aphone call to Gary Jorgensen, revealeù thepossibility of a good runner. The trip to(jary netted many other much needed partsbut unliirtunately, no engine liir me. Idecided on a complete rebuild of theoriginal engine which has heen completedand now sits in the chassis. I had quite asurprise while repairing the steering box.

TIie previous owners ohviously had troubleadjusting it so in desperation they weldedthe housing together! The steering tuhewas packed full of rust and dirt. While

restoring the steering box of my T2 12, Ihad the same trouhle. After much to-ingand lro-ing I was able to put a cleaning rodthrough the tube revealing a live revolver?Bullet!!! With this experience in the backof my mind I proceeded with caution.Again, after much work this time a live:1m bullet dated i 945. I know they callthese trucks weapons carriers, but I thinkthis is taking things too lar!! So restorers

heware - you could he carring liveammunition!!!! The wiring was in fairlycomplete original condition. After muchchecking and adding missing pieces

. sullcient to reproduce, the original was

sent to Darcy Miller. Both Ron Sutton andI were keen to have an original hamess

and Darcy has done a spot on job. Thanksiiir your etlirt Darcy. I am now up to thestage of starting the engine lì.ir the tirsttime. I wonder how long since it has heenrun - if only these old trucks could talk!

Research on the truck's service history hasso far drawn a blank. TIie chassis numberis in the same batch as those used by theAustralian Ary, hut why did it retain theUSA registration number? Was there abatch of vehicles supplied hy the USA toaid in the airlield and road construction?

Did it go straight to service with the AlliedWorks Council? After several repaints inolive drab, the last colour was orange, liirthe Department of Works and Housing. Ihave managed to talk to the owner of thèonly other known WC4 i, in England, withthe view to ohtaining inlì.irmation on thefuel tank peculiar to WC4 i and also on theemergency repair body. Unliirtunately, heis reluctant to help me as he believes thateveryone will make one and thereliiremake his vehicle less valuable!*?*?! Anyinliirmation, comments, photos, contacts'.,'ould be appreciated.

Reproduced with Author'spermission.

Page 11

MINUTES OF GENERAL MEETING OF VMVC INC HELD AT R.O.l.A.HALL, TUESDAY, 3 APRIL 2001

OPEN: Meeting opened at 8.02 pm by the President

PRESENT: 37 members and guests

APOLOGIES: Ross Arand, Ian Jarott, Bil Montgomery

NEW MEMBERS: George Walker, Thomas Smith

MINUTES OF LAST MEETING: Accepted - Moved: Anthony Ick Seconded: Eddie Vella

BUSINESS ARSING FROMPREVIOUS MEETING:

CORRSPONDENCE IN:

Nil

The Basin Fire Brigade - invitation to attend display.Chelsea RSL - requesting two vehicles for their parade.Golden City Collectors Assoc - advising date & details of auction.Mia Mia Committee - invitation to attend their kite day.AOMC - Februar Delegates' ReportRSL - minutesAMC8 & MVCSSA - March Newsletters

CORRSPONDENCE OUT: Graham Shirley - membership form and club inormation.Yea Toursm - advising number of vehicles to attend festivaL.

Correspondence Accepted - Moved: B Fenner Seconded: R Geddes

AOMC REPORT: Henr Davies spoke mainly on LRP petrol, petrol pricing and ClubPermit Scheme book.

TREASURER'S REPORT: BACE AT MACH MEETING $6,188.26

CASH IN: MembershipsSale of Badges, etc

$26.00$20.00

TOTAL CASH IN $46.00

BACE $6,234.26CASH OUT: Post Apr Newsletter $133. 72

Print Apr Newsletter $398.20

TOTAL CASH OUT $531.92

BACE AT APRIL MEETING $5,702.34

Treasurer's Report Accepted: Moved: Neil WaiSeconded: Bevan Fenner

Page 12

GENERAL BUSINESS: Aricle on Col Anderson in "The Age" was circulated.

Rats of Tobrù Anversar display in the Melboure Town Hall held from9 to 25 ApriL. Free entry.

Display to be held at Flemington Racecourse after the Anac March.

In futue, members should send in their forms for Anac Day paricipation.

Discussion took place on trouble and hold up points durng the AnacMarch. Police are to give us the right of

way.

Bevan Fenner spoke on this year's Corowa event.PAST EVENTS:

Don Bailey gave a detailed report on the recent Club Tour of Victoria with

our Tasmanan members. Great times and lots of laughs.

Karl Cranshaw reported on the visit to Watsonia weapons training centre.

John Brown spoke on the visit to the Liberator restoration day.

Lionel Smar reported on the Scout Expo and Lilydale Air Show.

Graham Jacobs told of the great day had by all at the Yea Autu FestivaL.

See Calendar of Coming Events.COMING EVENTS:

Jim Hars spoke on the coming Anac March. More vehicles needed.We are 17 down on last year. Please hur back afer your appointment.

We will assemble as usual behind the Shrne at the end of the march.

Alan Bremner and Bevan Fenner have vehicles for sale.Sperr searchlight, reasonable condition $150 - Dave Marsh.

9.05 pm

SALES & WANTS:

MEETING CLOSED:

Members at CFA Open Day - Como Gardens Park

~~:DEADLIE for

. NEWSLETTER

is FRIDAY 18 MAY 2001

PHONE: (03) 59413707FAX: (03) 59401673EMAL: bevktIdcsi.net.au

PO BOX 327, PAKENH 3810

:jtII

,.l

,

DISCLAIMER

The statements and opinions expressed in this Newsletter are not necessarly those of the members or Committee

of the Victorian Miltary Vehicle Corps Inc. We do not take responsibility for any statements advertisements,notices, letters or opinions that are published. Such are published at the risk of the contributor who accepts

liabilty for any intended publication. Writers of aricles provide their suggestions and opinions as generalinformation only and accept no responsibilty if you choose to follow-up their suggestions.

All contributors agree to indemnify the publisher and warant that the material is accurate and is neitherdeceptive or misleading, in breach of copyright, defamatory, or in breach of any laws.

.,-~

VMVC NEWSLETTERPrint Post NumberPP 341278/0012

If undelivered, return to:PO Box 367RESERVOIR VIC 3073

SURFACEMAIL

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Cbange of Address or Vebicle Details

Membership No: ..................... Surname: ..... ......... .... .......... .... ..... ............................... ..................... ...... First Name ...................... ..... .........................

/Address: .. .............................. ..... .............................. ........................... .................................................. State: ...................... Postcode: ..........................

Phone Numbers: ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Vebicle Type Registration Type Vebicle History

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