Issuu

June 2020

CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY BRANCH of the VINTAGE CAR CLUB of NZ (Inc) Lamb Country Branch Email: centralhawkesbay@vcc.org.nz

Contributions to the BLEAT should be emailed to the Editor no later than (25th of each month) joycecalder@gmail.com

Club Nights

7.30pm 3rd Wednesday of every Month

1911 National Race Car Found—by Vic Groah & Brian Blain

Postal Address C/-73 Porangahau Road Waipukurau, 4200 NOMINATED POSITIONS CHAIRMAN Lynn Cross secross@xtra.co.nz 06 858 9814 SECRETARY Ken Lyons Ken.lyons@xtra.co.nz 06 858 8093 TREASURER Kaye Carswell wpkmotors@gmail.com 021 124 3620 CLUB CAPTAIN Rod McKenzie rod.mckenzie.wpk@xtra.co.nz 06 858 9562 COMMITTEE Bruce Poole brucepoole1930@gmail.com 06 858 9940

Eric Ramos and Bill Bennett are in Brian Blain’s 1911 National. Those in the background are from left to right: Carol Willson and Ken Huckaby near the 1912 Cadillac, Augustine Arreguin, Nathan Kalama, Rick Manley, Barrett Blain, Brian Blain, Rusty Ellis, Linda & Vic Groah ,on their 1912 Kissel Kar, Sandy Blain, Rosemary Huckaby, Dan Willson and Bud Willis.

The Indianapolis 500 is the one race that even non-car people are aware of. This granddaddy of all Oval American Car Races was started in1911. There had been shorter races on the two and a half mile rectangular brick surfaced track as early as 1909 but none so heavily promoted or successful as the 1911 500 mile extravaganza.

Gary Weaver janetmweaver@gmail.com 06 858 9908 Iain and Eva Gollan nga-oki@xtra.co.nz 06 858 9105 Ruth Parker brparkrz@xtra.co.nz 06 858 5411

John Foot V.I.C. (I.D. Card) Coordinator jsfoot@xtra.co.nz It is well known that Ray Harroun won the event in a 6 cylinder Marmon with 06 858 8301 an average speed of 74.602 miles per hour. At least that was the official word. PUBLICITY/WELFARE OFFICER The ending of the race has been controversial since the day of the race. What Sandra Cross secross@xtra.co.nz is for sure the Marmon team got the $10.000 winner’s prize. That Marmon 06 858 9814

still exists and resides in the Indy museum. Little is said about the other 39 EDITOR: joycecalder@gmail.com cars that raced that day. As would be expected, survivors of that long ago race 022 166 1403 are few and rare.

1911 National Race Car Foundâ€”by Vic Groah & Brian Blain The 1911 National, recently restored to the 1911 Indy racing configuration by race car driver and collector Brian Blain of Visalia California, may well be one of those. Brian has a long history of racing. He along with his Can-Am cars and formula racers, has been driving a 1916 National race car in vintage races for several year. Brianâ€™s love of National goes back to his early childhood. Harry Sprague a close family friend raced a big T head National from 1912 through to 1917. On the wall of Brianâ€™s office are era photographs and memorabilia of Hurry's 1912 National race car that won so many local events. He looked for years to find a car like the one in the family photos. In 1992 he found a 1916 National Highway 6 that had been stripped down for racing. It was not the T Head 4 cylinder he was looking for but he restored it to look like Harry's National race car. Brian has driven this car in vintage races with some success for 11 years but he kept looking for the T Head four cylinder race car. A few years back he found one. The problem the car was not really for sale. The owner was ill and could no longer drive it but the family did not want to sell just yet. Brian kept in touch with the wife of the owner for several year. He was told that he would be given a chance to buy the National when the time came to sell. We all get busy however, and when Brian failed to make his regular call for a month or so something in his head told him that something was not right. When he finally made the call he was apologetically told that the car had been sold to an undisclosed person the week before. It took Brian two years to find the National. Through a chain of events, it came available and Brian had a short time in which to come up with the full purchase price or forget it. Brian made the deal even though the car was at the other end of the country and who known's, in what condition? He had been looking for years and he just could not let this chance slip away a second time.

Sunday 21st June—CHB Car Club Run—1st run since Covid 19 lockdown

“Yippeeeee, on the Road again”

Starting from Tavistock Place around 1 00pm Members will be asked to remain in their cars where they will receive their instructions and be free to go. The run will be quite long, mostly over sealed roads, and will include a bush walk option where social distancing will need to be maintained. It will be a bit unsociable as befits the times. At the end of the drive it will be straight home for everybody.

Targa NZ & the Vintage Car Club invite you to

“The Ultimate Time Trial 2020” 13th - 18th October 2020

North Island — starting & finishing in the Auckland area An outstanding opportunity for some spirited driving while matching set times for Special Stages. Not a race, but rather a test of precise driving & time keeping. Open to all road legal cars 30 years or older, street or race car alike. No special car modifications are required. vcc.org.nz Rod Corbett 0274 338 772 rod.corbett88@gmail.com

targa.nz Peter Martin 0274 525 643 peter@urg.co.nz

VEHICLE IDENTITY CARDS As there have been changes made to the application forms that you fill in for the VEHICLE IDENTITY CARD could you all PLEASE MAKE SURE that the forms you fill in have the DATE OF 09/2019 IN THE TOP RIGHT HAND CORNER of each page underneath the page number. If you need a set of papers please contact me on (06)858-8301 or email jsfoot@xtra.co.nz or download a set from the Club website.

John Foot—Branch Vehicle Identity Card Coordinator

CHB VCC

Events Calendar Date

Date

June

Sunday 21st Cross’s Car run and bush walk

July

Branch Dinner and AGM to be held at Wed 15th Oruawharo Homestead

August

September

Other District's Events

Sun 26th

Mid-winter Christmas Run @ Dannevirke: Gloria & Laurie (to be confirmed)

Sat 8th

Bruce Poole's Twilight run.

15th-16th

VCC National AGM at Wanganui

Wed 19th

Branch Dinner and Meeting: Venue TBA

Sun 30th

VCC National Day/Daffodil Day

Wed 16th

Branch Dinner and Meeting: Venue TBA

TBA

Daffodil Run to Taniwha

Mid-week adventure to Wairarapa [Rod 14-15-16th and Scarlett]

HB VCC Safari @Labour weekend

Wed 21st

Branch Dinner and Meeting: Venue TBA

Manawatu Swap Meeting

Sat 14th

CHB A&P Show: Display and gymkhana [perhaps]

Wed 18th

Branch Dinner and Meeting: Venue TBA

Sat 21st

Veteran Rally

Sun 22nd

Homestead Run—Combined with HB TBA

TBA

Christmas Party (venue to be confirmed)

TBA

Christmas Parade—Waipukurau

January 2021

TBA

Beach Run —(volunteers please)

Feb/March

“Top-of-the-South" adventure to Marl7 Days TBA borough ??????

October

November

December 2021

International Rally—Taranaki—January 16th to 21st—2021 4 see www.historicmotoring.co.nz for details

Chairman's Report—June 2020 Awaken ye all – let’s get out of the doldrums and come alive again. The committee met on Sunday 24th May and made a few decisions about the future activities of our Branch. All of them are subject to postponement, should the dreaded lurgy return and cause us to revert to tighter restrictions. At the moment, that doesn’t seem likely. There will be a run organised for Sunday 21st June. It will be a bit unsociable as befits the times. Starting from Tavistock Place around 1 00pm, members will be asked to remain in their cars where they will receive their instructions and be free to go. The run will be quite long, mostly over sealed roads, and will include a bush walk option where social distancing will need to be maintained. At the end of the drive it will be straight home for everybody. Our annual twilight/night rally is rescheduled for 8th August. Keep an eye on your emails for any updates and changes as we go along. Our AGM is booked for 15th July at Oruawharo where there is adequate elbow room and service to cater for the expected numbers. I stand down, having done my three years, so there will be a new Chairman Elected. All positions are open for election and nomination forms need to be filled in some time prior to the meeting. I will automatically hold the position of Immediate Past Chairman for the ensuing year. The mid-winter Christmas party proposed for the end of July in Dannevirke will most likely go ahead as planned but the decision on this will be left until late June when we are a little more up to date with the Covid-19 thing. During the lockdown we gifted $1,000 to the local Food Bank, being the profit of our raffles over the last few years. Hopefully, we’ll get more news coverage when things open up a bit more. Meantime, if you’re out and about in your old Fords, and encounter unexpected and erratic backfiring – just relax and remember there are duck shooters about.

LYNN CROSS CHB Branch Chairman

Rod’s Rattling's—June 2020 The only “rattling's” I have to report on are all in my old cars, and they aren’t rattling anyway as I haven’t had them out on the road in over two months, much like the rest of our branch. There have been no past events to note, and in the short term at least, nothing in the way of runs or events to kindle your enthusiasm for the near foreseeable future. However, in saying that, and following the branch committee meeting yesterday, there are a few things on the drawing board whereby we hope we can use our cars. We all stayed a metre apart from each other as our host, Iain Gollan, had his tape measure out and amused us all as he wasn’t too sure whether he should measure us shoulder to shoulder or bellybutton to belly-button. As we have mostly been over-indulging with tucker the past few weeks, he reckoned on not being able to access the committee belly-buttons, so it was shoulder-to-shoulder. Have any of you been onto the VCC “Facebook” pages? You are able to join the group and there are a lot of interesting topics, photos, videos and reports that will keep you busy for a while in front of your lap-top or whatever you use. It hasn’t been shown to me how to go about putting stuff onto the pages, but it can’t be too difficult. Maybe one of our more enlightened members could tell us what to do at some stage. There is the suggestion that the branch could visit one or two of the schools in the district at some time and show the children how the older cars work and possibly have a chat about the history of the motor vehicle in our district and New Zealand in general. I am sure the school committee involved would be only too happy to supply lunches for our group for a fee, thereby raising some funds for their school. The Night Trial, or Twilight Trial, that Bruce Poole has been sitting on since “lock-down” is back on the agenda, and if everything is back to some sort of normal, will go ahead on Saturday 8 th August. Start times and the start point will be advised when and if it is all good to go ahead. The “Daffodil Run” in early September will take place [under the same restrictions of a new normality] with a visit to Taniwha for lunch. The Mabin family will be running the show a bit differently this year and not charging for the flowers you pick, but I imagine an honesty box or something will be there so they can continue to make a donation to the “Plunket” people as they have done for many years. In October, Scarlett and I will again run a “Mid-week event” which we have planned to take us into the Wairarapa region. This will be another three day affair, similar to what we did last year when we went to Te Kuiti and beyond, with a couple of nights at a motel. This, of course, is again subject to us being “allowed” to support the tourist industry of the country. The committee also discussed in brief the Annual Veteran Rally, the Christmas party [both mid-year and the more appropriately timed one], a Beach Run in January and the possibility of doing something at the CHB A&P Show in November [maybe a gymkhana would be possible]. I also tabled a “Suggested Adventure” for the branch being an epic seven day tour into the Marlborough region staying in Blenheim, the Portage and D’Urville Island each for two nights exploring the area and visiting museums, cafes, shops, wineries and out-of-the-way places. There was a surprising amount of support for doing something along these lines in February or March next year. Interested? Let me know.

Rod McKenzie CHB Branch Club Captain

Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club “Interview with Ken Lyons” 1.

What made you decide to purchase a VCC eligible car?

I moved from Auckland to Waipukurau in February 2015. Among other things I brought with me a 2000 Ford Mustang and a 1994 Chevrolet Corvette. I was and still am a member of the Renegade Rod and Custom Car Club based mostly in West Auckland. Not long after arriving in Waipukurau I met Barry Smales who installed some smoke alarms in our home and we got talking about cars and Barry kindly extended an invitation to come along to a Club Run with the CHB VCC. I pointed out that my two American left hand drive cars are not quite the type of cars you would expect to see at Vintage Car Club activities. However I got to meet other people who shard a common interest, even though our cars were different. The CHB VCC members were very welcoming and as I learnt more about the club criteria, classifications and variety of cars eligible for Vintage Car Club activities I decided to get myself something. Firstly I needed a bigger shed so set about building that. While building the shed I would take time to look at the cars for sale on trademe and ponder my options. I was not looking for a “project” so confined my interest to vehicles in original condition, well maintained, and with good ownership history. This way I could enjoy the Vintage Car Club activities straight away. I decided to look for a vehicle that was suitable for open road cruising, something with safety belts etc so something from the seventies appealed. I was surprised to see that Jaguar cars from this era were so cheap in comparison to other makes of cars in this vintage. The outcome was that I purchased a 1978 Jaguar SLE-XJ6 sedan from an Auckland family. I bought it unseen, and flew to Auckland and Drove it back home to Waipukurau. It was at one time owned by a well known Jaguar enthusiast and collector Les Parkinson. The car was known as “GLAMOUR PUSS "while in Les’s ownership.

Was your car restored or original? Did you restore it?

The 1978 Jaguar SLE (special limited edition) is in original condition, well maintained and I believe is the original paint (Signal Red). According to a recently published book detailing the history of the Jaguar assembly in Nelson NZ. The car is featured in the book along with many other “survivors” from the seventies of the Nelson assembled XJ6 Jaguars. I enjoy being able to-do my own maintenance on my vehicles and have installed a 4 poster hoist to make this a more manageable activity.

How many VCC eligible cars/vehicles have you owned or still own?

During the last three years I have suffered a disease Rod McKenzie jokingly referred to as “Car owner virus (corona)”as I now have in my collection the following: 1977Jaguar XJ12 Sedan 1978 Jaguar XJ6 SLE Sedan 1990 Jaguar XJ40 Sovereign Sedan with 4 litre AJ6 engine 1991 Jaguar XJS coupe with 4 litre 6 cylinder AJ6 engine 1992 Jaguar XJS coupe with V12 engine 1994 Jaguar X300 Sovereign with 4 Litre 6 cylinder AJ16 engine 1994 Chevrolet Corvette coupe with 5.7 litre LT1 V8 engine 2000 Ford Mustang coupe with 4.6 litre V8 engine 1977 Jaguar XJ12 Sedan

1994 Chevrolet Corvette coupe-5.7 litre LT1 V8 engine

Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club “Interview with Ken Lyons” 4.

What is your favourite VCC memory?

I have enjoyed all of the club runs and social activities with the CHB VCC. Rod McKenzie organised a three day run last year to Taranaki with many places of interest along the way including Whangamomana Pub lunch stop, Tawhiti museum. Also some very interesting metal back block roads "especially in the V12 XJS!

Where would you like to travel in your VCC car?

I have enjoyed all of our Club Runs They have opened my eyes to the Beautiful landscape in Central Hawkes Bay. Many of the road we travel and places we visit I would not otherwise see or experience. I use my cars for everyday travel including trips to Auckland. I drive to Hastings to participate in Ten Pin Bowling once or twice each week and use this as an opportunity to enjoy one of the cars from my collection.

What do you enjoy most about the club?

To share your interest in motor vehicles and motoring with like minded people. I moved from Auckland five years ago with my partner Rachel Bishop and at the time the only people I know here were member of her family. The club for me has been rewarding in providing opportunities to build friendships with local people in our Waipukurau community.

What would be you “Dream” VCC vintage car?

I have always admired the lines of the 1959 Cadillac with the huge tail fins and cone shaped tail lights. All that chrome and a red and white paint job! It will however remain a dream.

What advice would you give to someone buying their first VCC eligible car?

The tail end of Kens Dream Car 1959 Cadillac

Depending on your age and the reasons you are wanting to participate in Vintage Car Club Activities. Ask yourself!! Do you want a project restoring a vehicle to use in Vintage Car Club activities and do you have the time to do that? If your main goal is to participate in club runs and VCC events what sort of eligible vehicle interests you and how much do you want to spend? If you want to engage in these activities now, maybe consider purchasing a well maintained car of the vintage that interest you. Many of us are influence by nostalgia and there are many members these days who have an interest in vehicles from the 1960’s to 1980’s.

What is the best thing about being a member of the CHB VCC?

A very friendly group of people that I am getting to know who share a sincere and genuine interest in our Club activities.

Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club “Interview with Ken Lyons” 10. Tell us something about yourself and or/cars you own or have owned? The first car I owned was a bit special, it was a 1962 Plymouth Belvedere with a 318 V8 and push button torque flight auto transmission. It was our family daily driver for about 15 years. I also used it as the tow car for the TQ midget I built and raced during the 1980,s. When I gave up the Speedway activities I took up other sporting activities and for approx twenty five years I was involved with swimming, both pool and open water. Also triathlon, marathon and road cycling etc. Now that I have retired it has given me the opportunity to devote more of my time to the interest I have always had in motor vehicles.

1992 Jaguar XJS coupe with V12 engine

1991 Jaguar XJS coupe with 4 litre 6 cylinder AJ6 engine

1978 Jaguar XJ6 SLE Sedan

1977 Jaguar XJ12 Sedan

1990 Jaguar XJ40 Sovereign Sedan with 4 litre AJ6 engine

9 1994 Jaguar X300 Sovereign with 4 Litre 6 cylinder AJ16 engine

Automania—68 Thames St, Pandora, Napier

(concept photo)

BACKGROUND

I’ve been a car enthusiast for 50 years, and for the past 22 years have had my own internationally recognised business restoring and modifying vehicles in Masterton. That business continues at that location, but my wife and I have purchased a residential property in Napier, and are permanently residing here from January 2020. With the shift I needed to relocate my vehicles and auto memorabilia, and was faced with the same problem that besieges car enthusiasts globally. Not enough space at home to store everything. Accordingly I have secured premises at 68 Thames Street, Pandora, Napier, and have been setting up an elite car storage facility for like-minded enthusiasts. My personal interests are predominantly with Hot Rodding, Muscle Cars and Motorsport, but I also have a passion for the Art Deco Era, and accordingly we are targeting a diverse range of vehicles to accommodate. There are precedents for this type of business overseas, but locally I am only aware of private collections that have extra cars stored on an ad-hoc basis.

OVERVIEW The concept is different to the usual model of a lock-up. Rather it is intended to have the vehicles on display in an appropriately decorated facility that will have more of a gallery feel to it. An important feature of the facility is to also develop a classy ‘clubhouse’ atmosphere where owners can also hang out with fellow enthusiasts. Motorsport (eg Bathurst) watch parties have been scheduled. Whilst we expect most vehicles will be stored on a long term basis, owners will have the option of being able to independently maintain, uplift and use their vehicles.

Cars in storage are on trickle chargers, and all vehicles are supplied with oil drip pans as part of their storage. Additional services such as a hoist for basic owner maintenance and under-car cleaning are being added in the near future. For absentee owners requiring vehicle maintenance in between use, this can be organised on your behalf. For peace of mind, the building is fully alarmed and 24/7 monitored security is in place.

Automania—68 Thames St, Pandora, Napier RATES Short and long term storage options are available from February 2020, with rates dependant on which package best suits your needs. CONTACT

Lloyd Wilson lloyd@magoos.co.nz 021-436-432 More Than Car Storage

If you’ve run out of garage space for your toy, but don’t want to put it in a conventional lock up, then we have the answer for you. Auto mania provides the opportunity to store your Classic, Vintage, Race Car or Hot Rod in the company of other collectors cars, and in an exclusive environment that combines Gallery, Museum and importantly a Social Atmosphere that includes a lounge and library as well as social activities. Enjoy the benefits of storing your vehicle in a secure facility (monitored 24/7) plus the opportunity to interact with other like-minded car enthusiasts. We offer a range of options from basic storage through to full service, including a hoist for basic maintenance servicing and under car detailing. 1st gear $60+ gst per week Pure lock up. No independent access. No power. No services. Supply own drip pan (or pay extra 1 off charge for same) 2nd gear $80 +gst per week Power for trickle charger Drip pan supplied Access to hoist Independent access 3rd gear $100 + gst per week Trickle charger supplied Drip pan supplied Access to hoist & tools Complimentary disposal of oil from owner oil changes Independent access Tires rotated Car cover supplied 4th gear $120 + gst per week Trickle charger supplied Drip pan supplied Access to hoist & tools Independent access Tires rotated Car cover supplied Arranging servicing including mechanical work Arranging grooming as required 2 oil changes per year (including cost of oil & filters) 2 WOF per year

(concept photo)

HISTORY OF THE CAR RADIO Seems like cars have always had radios, but they didn't. Here's the story—One evening, in 1929, two young men named William Lear and Elmer Wavering drove their girlfriends to a lookout point high above the Mississippi River town of Quincy, Illinois, to watch the sunset. It was a romantic night to be sure, but one of the women observed that it would be even nicer if they could listen to music in the car.

This reproduction of Motorola’s first car radio 1930 model 5T71 included (left to right) a radio receiver, tuning control and speaker

Lear and Wavering liked the idea. Both men had tinkered with radios (Lear served as a radio operator in the U.S. Navy during World War I) and it wasn't long before they were taking apart a home radio and trying to get it to work in a car. But it wasn't easy, automobiles have ignition switches, generators, spark plugs, and other electrical equipment that generate noisy static interference making it nearly impossible to listen to the radio when the engine was running.

One by one, Lear and Wavering identified and eliminated each source of electrical interference. When they finally got their radio to work, they took it to a radio convention in Chicago. There they met Paul Galvin owner of Galvin Manufacturing Corporation. He made a product called a "battery eliminator", a device that allowed battery-powered radios to run on household AC current. But as more homes were wired for electricity, more radio manufacturers made AC-powered radios. Galvin needed a new product to manufacture. When he met Lear and Wavering at the radio convention, he found it. He believed that mass-produced, affordable car radios had the potential to become a huge business. Lear and Wavering set up shop in Galvin's factory, and when they perfected their first radio, they installed it in his Studebaker. Then Galvin went to a local banker to apply for a loan. Thinking it might sweeten the deal, he had his men install a radio in the banker's Packard. Good idea, but it didn't work, half an hour after the installation, the banker's Packard caught on fire. (They didn't get the loan.) Galvin didn't give up. He drove his Studebaker nearly 800 miles to Atlantic City to show off the radio at the 1930 Radio Manufacturers Association convention. Too broke to afford a booth, he parked the car outside the convention hall and cranked up the radio so that passing conventioneers could hear it. That idea worked. He got enough orders to put the radio into production. WHAT'S IN A NAME—That first production model was called the 5T71. Galvin decided he needed to come up with something a little catchier. In those days many companies in the phonograph and radio businesses used the suffix "ola" for their names Radiola, Columbiola, and Victrola were three of the biggest. Galvin decided to do the same thing, and since his radio was intended for use in a motor vehicle, he decided to call it the Motorola. But even with the name change, the radio still had problems. When Motorola went on sale in 1930, it cost about $110 uninstalled, at a time when you could buy a brand-new car for $650, and the country was sliding into the Great Depression. (By that measure, a radio for a new car would cost about $3,000 today.) 12

HISTORY OF THE CAR RADIO In 1930, it took two men several days to put in a car radio. The dashboard had to be taken apart so that the receiver and a single speaker could be installed, and the ceiling had to be cut open to install the antenna. These early radios ran on their own batteries, not on the car battery, so holes had to be cut into the floorboard to accommodate them. The installation manual had eight complete diagrams and 28 pages of instructions. Selling complicated car radios that cost 20 percent of the price of a brand-new car wouldn't have been easy in the best of times, let alone during the Great Depression. Galvin lost money in 1930 and struggled for a couple of years after that. But things picked up in 1933 when Ford began offering Motorola's pre-installed at the factory. In 1934 they got another boost when Galvinstruck a deal with B.F. Goodrich tire company to sell and install them in its chain of tire stores. By then the price of the radio, with installation included, had dropped to $55. The Motorola car radio was off and running. The name of the company would be officially changed from Galvin Manufacturing to "Motorola" in 1947.) In the meantime, Galvin continued to develop new uses for car radios. In 1936, the same year that it introduced push-button tuning, it also introduced the Motorola Police Cruiser, a standard car radio that was factory preset to a single frequency to pick up police broadcasts. In 1940 he developed the first handheld two-way radio. The Handy-Talkie for the U. S. Army. A lot of the communications technologies that we take for granted today were born in Motorola labs in the years that followed World War II. In 1947 they came out with the first television for under $200. In 1956 the company introduced the world's first pager. In 1969 came the radio and television equipment that was used to televise Neil Armstrong's first steps on the Moon. In 1973 it invented the world's first handheld cellular phone. Today Motorola is one of the largest cell phone manufacturers in the world. And it all started with the car radio. WHATEVER HAPPENED TO the two men who installed the first radio in Paul Galvin's car? Elmer Wavering and William Lear, ended up taking very different paths in life. Wavering stayed with Motorola. In the 1950's he helped change the automobile experience again when he developed the first automotive alternator, replacing inefficient and unreliable generators. The invention lead to such luxuries as power windows, power seats, and eventually air-conditioning. Lear also continued inventing, he holds more than 150 patents. Remember the eight-track tape players? Lear invented that. But what he's really famous for are is his contributions to the field of aviation. He invented radio direction finders for planes, aided in the invention of the autopilot and designed the first fully automatic aircraft landing system, and in 1963 he introduced his most famous invention of all. The Lear Jet, the world's first mass-produced, affordable business jet. (Not bad for a guy who dropped out of school after the eighth grade.)

Sometimes it is fun to find out how some of the many things that we take for granted actually came into being!

Larkinâ€™s T Adventure

By Vic Groah

Many years ago a good friend, Larkin Vaughn, related an experience he had as a youth. I found it interesting and have decided to share it with you all. The time was about 1930. Times were hard and if you had a job at all you would do almost anything to keep it. Larkin was working for a painting contractor in Lindsay California. The boss asked him to take the company Ford truck to Los Angeles to pick up a barrel of white lead. As you may know in those days any paint worth putting on was filled with great amounts of lead. As we all know lead is very heavy. I have no idea how much a 55 gallon barrel of white lead would weigh, but it must be a lot. Larkin headed out early in the morning with the T Ford truck. This must have been a very old truck at the time as it had hard rubber tires. It took Larkin and the Ford all day and all the night to make the 170-mile trip over the old ridge route, with its 60 miles of steep, switch back curves to Los Angeles. It was a hard trip and he did not relish the thought of making it again any time soon. He had run non-stop, as he had taken a drum of gas and food with him to make the trip. Larkin pulled up to the dock and noticed that there were three barrels of white lead with the company name on them. Now young Larkin thought to himself, that was a hell of a trip and he did not want to turn around and make it two more times. He had the dock crew use the big crane and put all three barrels of white lead on the truck, next to the drum of gas for the return trip. He was too smart to make that trip again the next day after getting home. It was just too long and hard. Well, Larkin soon learned the error of his decision, within a couple of miles it became evident that the old 20 horse power T was not up to the task. Each little rise would bog the engine down and into low gear. It was fortunate the truck was equipped with a Ruxstell rear axle which was an under drive. This allowed for splitting gears and gave the two speed Ford four speeds forward, the massive grades of the ridge route loomed before him and he was already in low range in the Ruxstell on the rolling hills north of Los Angeles. The heady grades of the ridge forced the poor T into low low with the throttle in wide-open position. He found a forked stick to prop the low pedal down by propping it against the seat base. A Ford model T the transmission is held into low by applying heavy pressure on the low pedal on the floor. He took the hood off the engine to let some of the heat out; the exhaust manifold was glowing red-hot. He could not stay in the cab from the heat so walked along side or rode on the running board. Thus he went, 2 to 5 miles per hour for the 60 or so winding miles it takes to cross the mountains. It was a tortuous ordeal to say the least. It took all day and all the night to make it to the top, and then he was in real trouble. Down hill !!! He had to keep it in low low in order to keep the truck from running away and joining the many other disasters at the bottom of one of the many canyons. He took a couple of short naps on the bed of the truck, as was the custom at the time. There were no motels in those days or money to rent one if there had been. He had packed a couple of lunches but due to the extended time ran out of food as well. One last mistake was made. As the road straightened out into the valley he was determined to make up some of the lost time and took advantage of the last down slope to get up some speed. BIG MISTAKE. The hard rubber tires, with three times the weight they were designed for started to come apart, throwing off big chunks of rubber. Now the truck was going along CALUMP, CALUMP, CALUMP as the heavy load came down on the rim because of the missing chunks of tire. He again was reduced to walking speed. Well, several days after leaving home, and in the middle of the night, he made it back to Lindsay. He parked the poor, damaged T in the company compound and went home, knowing he no longer had a job. No use to go for the last paycheck. The truck was ruined and the repairs would cost much more than he had coming in pay. Much to his surprise the boss contacted him and had him come back to work. He had exhibited very poor 14his bacon. judgment but was a good workman and that had saved Continued on next pg

Larkin’s T Adventure—by Vic Groah After writing this story I have talked with Larkin’s daughter. She informed me that the white lead was for making the paint for the Lindsay city water tower. That job too was not a fun endeavor as in those days safety measures were not as they are now and Larkin had concerns about working with no safety lines on the tower. Larkin had a life long respect for the model T Ford. He had one until his death in the 1970s. Larkin Vaughn became a master mechanic and worked in the automotive field into his 80s. He also was a valued member on the Tulare County Regional Group of the Horseless Carriage Club of America for many years. His Overland, Franklin, and brass era T Fords were a part of most area tours from the 1950s to the end of his life. He was also a special friend and godfather to my son.

Here is a story from Facebook written by a fellow called Eric West who must have been a motor apprentice in his younger years—sent in by Rod McKenzie No photo, but a motoring story with a laugh at my expense. Back in 1965 I was working for a large garage/ dealership in Rotorua. One of our regular clients was a retired British Army Major, a dapper, but seemingly eccentric gentleman who always came in wearing jodhpurs and a riding jacket. His car was a beautiful 1934 Rolls Royce Phantom and it was my monthly task to clean it and check all of the oil and water. The first time I did this was quite memorable, it all took about 3 hours to do, it was a big car, but the time came when, if for only a short distance, I was going to drive my first Rolls Royce, out to the customer car park. In common with all Rolls Chassis of those days, this vehicle had a ''Chauffeur's Gear Change'' the gear lever being between the driver's right leg and the right hand door. As I leapt enthusiastically into the car, the gear lever shot straight up my right trouser leg. I then found that I had become as one with the car, while getting in was easy, getting out proved impossible! The only solution was to undo my belt and trousers and slide out of them, finishing up standing in the carwash in my socks and Y-fronts. As the car wash was directly opposite the office ladies window, this was an interesting position for a 17 year old to be in! Naturally, all of the mechanics and apprentices were howling with laughter, but to compound it, the Major turned up! He took in the situation with a glance, smiled at me knowingly and said, ''Aah!, now you understand why I always wear Jodhpurs''!

Central Hawkeâ€™s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc)

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2020 To be held at the Oruawharo Homestead, 379 Oruawharo Rd, Takapau on Wednesday 15th July 2020 at 7-30pm. AGENDA Apologies. Minutes of the 2019 AGM. Branch Office Holder Reports. Election of Officers. General Business. Notices of Motion are to be received, in writing, by the secretary No later than 30th June 2020 Post to: The Branch Secretary, 73 Porangahau Rd , Waipukurau 4200, Or email ken.lyons@xtra.co.nz All committee positions are as vacant and nominations are to be received by the Secretary No later than seven (7) days prior to the meeting. Nominations will also be accepted from the floor provided the nominee is present at the meeting. The Minutes of the 2019 Annual General Meeting are printed in this magazine.

All members and interested persons are welcome to attend

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Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc) NOMINATION FORM 2020 / 21 All nomination forms are to be received by The Secretary, 73 Porangahau Rd, Waipukurau 4200. NO later than 10th July 2020 I hereby nominate: ___________________________________________________________ For the position of: ___________________________________________________________ Proposer: ___________________________________ Membership No: _________________ Seconder: ___________________________________Membership No: _________________ Signature of Nominee: _____________Membership No: ____________Date: ____________ OFFICE HOLDER’S DUTIES CHAIRPERSON

CLUB CAPTAIN

TREASURER

SECRETARY

EDITOR

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Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc) MINUTES for Annual General Meeting held at Waipukurau Bowling Club ,Mt Herbert Rd, Waipukurau, on Tuesday 18th June 2019 at 7.30pm. Notice of meeting ( read by Secretary ) PRESENT: 61 Members APOLOGIES: Bill and Janet Rendle, Ella Fleming, Eva Gollan, Neil Cox, Ray Brooker, Geoff and Diane Quarrie, Tony Prebensen, Joyce Calder, Ralph Brown, Lois Churchouse, Ross and Glenys Mitchell, Janice Malcom, Heather Cheer, Ella Domper, Marianna Domper, Irene Spicer, Michael and Vicky Harding. MINUTES OF 2018 AGM: (As circulated to all members in June Bleat ) Taken as read Moved: Paul Squire, Sec: Kaye Carswell MATTERS ARISING: Nil REPORTS: (as follows) CHAIRMANS REPORT I take great pleasure in presenting my second annual report as Chairman of the Branch. We continue to grow in membership and participation and it is gratifying indeed to see the number present tonight, which represents half of our total membership. The Committee as a whole has operated well and the really important people ie Secretary Ken and Treasurer Kaye have done everything required of their position. This has led to the smooth running of the Branch. I must mention the extra workload carried by Rod McKenzie as delegate to National Meetings over and above his position as Club Captain. Secondly John Foot as Scribe for “Beaded Wheels” and his work on VIC’s and valuations supported by Charlie Newport. Thirdly and importantly (for without food we are nothing) a special mention goes to Barry Smales very ably assisted by Lynne who, between them, have seen to the catering for a number of years now and have earned a well deserved break. They have organised a varied menu at multiple venues which has kept us entertained in body and mind. I would like you to show your appreciation to them. Off committee, also Sandra has attended to publicity and co-ordinated the Daffodil Rally which has been very successful with the help of a good committee and raised $2,600 for the local Cancer Society. Where would we be without Joyce? Month in and month out Joyce produces the “Bleat” which is the publication that keeps us all up to date with what is happening next and what has already happened. The “Bleat” is read far and wide and, thanks to the Internet, costs us as a Branch next to nothing to distribute. In the past year we have had feedback from various parts of New Zealand and on one occasion Australia. Well done Joyce and thanks for your ongoing commitment. Once again, we have three Committee members standing down. Peter McCool who has been on Committee since day one, and John Foote and Barry Smales who have both been there a good number of years. John will continue with his VIC and Scribe duties. Fortunately, we have volunteers lined up to fill the vacancies and look forward to new faces and new ideas in the coming year. Thanks also to various members who have organised rallies and runs throughout the year, taking us to new and interesting places. Our Branch continues to be represented at other branches’ events, especially but not only by John and Shirley Foot. We had a particularly good contingent at Taihape over the New Year and once again brought home the Gumboot. In closing, I must say it is a pleasure to be Chair of this Branch, we are almost embarrassed by our riches not only of finances but of personalities and camaraderie. Lynn Cross Moved: Lynn Cross: Sec: Rod McKenzie. SECRETARYS REPORT This year as your Secretary has been what I would describe as a steep learning curve. I would like to thank John and Shirley Foot for their help and support during the transition from newish member to Club Secretary. Being new to the CHB Vintage Car Club activities, not knowing the wider membership so well, and their history of involvement reminded me of the saying “thrown in the deep end”. I hope the club membership will appreciate I have done my best to “keep my head above water.” During this year I have learnt quite a lot about managing files, databases, storing and retrieving information from recorded meetings, keeping the club manuals current with the ongoing updates from National Office. Writing the minutes has been challenging, I hope they have made sense to those that have read them. Communication is important, and the distribution, forwarding of information from Rally/Run organisers, National Office, Club Capt and Chairman, Club night info from Barry all contributes to the health of the Club. Along with the Bleat and Bulk emails for our members this information distribution is working well. Sometimes a double up may occur for something important, hope that’s ok for you all. This year has felt like an apprenticeship and I have served my time. If re-elected I would do my best to serve the club well during 18 2019 -2020. My thanks to our Chairman Lynn and Club Capt Rod for their help and guidance. Continued on next pg

Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc) Thanks also to Barry for his hard work organising and ensuring the success of our monthly club nights. Continuing support for this club night is an indication of its importance to the health of the club. Also thanks to all on your committee who all contribute to make CHB the great club that it is. Our membership has continued to grow this year and we now have 121 members. I would like to conclude by welcoming to this meeting all those new members attending tonight and hope you all enjoy activities during the year ahead with CHB VCC. Moved: Ken Lyons Sec, Pam Ellmers Treasures Report: Kaye Carswell

Moved: Kaye Carswell

Sec: Janet Weave

CLUB CAPTAINS REPORT Central Hawke’s Bay VCC branch has had some very good runs throughout the year which include Cross’ run into the Porangahau area, Malcolmson’s run to Mangatainoka and beyond, and the National VCC Cancer support day which culminated in a visit to Wallingford Homestead, with a good number of public and non-members enjoying the day. The Cleland’s persisted with a “Spring Run” after having weather issues initially. The meal night in Dannevirke in September where we were joined by the Manawatu Branch was well-supported, and where Kaaren Smiley, the North Island Club Captain, spoke of the up-coming Tour she was planning for March. Wellington Branch paid CHB a visit with their annual “Tom’s Tour” during September. In October Neil and Pat Malcolm gave us a run to the sock factory at Norsewood, followed by a visit to “Kintail Honey” at Takapau. The Veteran Rally in November was fun, but not particularly well-supported nor attended and I question whether it is worth persisting with in its present format, however the “Homestead Run” the following day to “Waikareoau Station” which we shared with the HB Branch, was very popular with many car loads of folk attending. About a dozen cars entered into the spirit of Christmas by taking part in the Waipukurau Christmas Parade. The Christmas run to Phillips’ shed at Te Rehunga arranged by Laurie and Gloria Malcolmson was well attended and fun. Just before Christmas a “Reliability Trial”, arranged by Seton and Judy Thomsen, was enjoyed and became a very social day out with 15 cars attending. In January a run to “Shoal Beach” to the home of Paul and Judy Jensen was popular. February had us going on a shed raid, organized by Wayne McDonagh, to several sheds of CHB members with about 30 vehicles coming19 along. Continued on next pg

Central Hawke’s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc) March saw the branch visit with Bernard and Chris Murphy in Napier, and the North Island Club Captain’s Tour passed through the district to acclaim from many of the participants. The Cross’ took us to Church in the hills of Flemington in April, the closest to heaven several of us are likely to get it was thought. And in May Bruce Poole took us out on his “Annual Twilight Tour”, a sort of progressive dinner which was fun and, again, well supported with several entries from out of the district branches. Thanks folks! The branch has been represented by numerous of our members at other branch’s and club events throughout the year which include the “Irishman Rally” in Canterbury, the “Art Deco” event in Napier, and the New Year rally in Taihape where the New Year was not seen in because all the oldies had gone to bed and were sound asleep by mid-night!. Going into the next season of vintage and classic motoring, I would like to encourage as many of you, the branch members, to think about what you can do for your other branch members by putting on a run to somewhere interesting, or to put on some other challenge that your fellow members may well enjoy. For instance, Seton and Judy Thomsen will be having a crack at another “Reliability Trial” later in the year, and, no doubt Bruce Poole will be plotting another “Twilight Adventure” for us all. There are lots of gaps to fill! Which Beach should we visit in 2020? Perhaps it is you who can take us there. It is not for me as your Club Captain to put on all, or any, of the runs, but to assist those of you who are prepared to have a go at doing one. There is huge experience in this branch you can call on for help, which is exactly what Henk and Ella Domper have done for their run to Norsewood next month. Once again, my sincere thanks to my very supportive P.A., Scarlett, who keeps me on track more than you probably realise. And also, thanks to her too, for the work she does co-ordinating the raffle prizes each month. It is a very costly exercise to send your branch delegate, me, to the Executive and National AGM meetings for all branches throughout the year, so I hope you read and get something out of the reports I have written for you, the members of the branch. OK, what does it cost, I hear you ask? Several hundred dollars each time usually and a lot of time and work on my part, so I sincerely hope you, as members of the branch, are able to get something of value out of what I report back. We are entering into my sixth year as your branch Club Captain, and it would be healthy for the branch to have someone else coming along to fill my shoes. It is a fun job, and you get to meet and know all the active members of the branch during the year’s activities. Form an orderly queue please!!. Rod McKenzie. Moved: Rod McKenzie

Sec: John Foot

Editor Report Life has been extremely busy with the arrival of twin granddaughters in January this year. I spent the first six weeks of their lives with them in the North Shore Hospital Auckland, it was a very trying time but we are please to say they are all doing very well now. Again, keeping in mind, most of the Bleat content is very dependent on member input and relies heavily on someone participating in club runs and activities to take responsibility for writing a report. Club day reports do not have to be very long, just a short paragraphs covering events of the day, it could also cover something amusing a member has said or done, and attaching a few photos. Any other articles of interest that would be suitable for the Bleat are also very welcomed. I would also like to ask members to send a nice photo of your club car and any history along with it. This would make a great feature article and would be of interest throughout the branches. An electronic copy of the Bleat is also sent to our sponsors, CHB information Centre and now copies can be sort through the VCC of NZ website. A very big thank you to those members who are regularly contributing articles. Joyce Calder Moved: Ken Lyons Sec: Lynn Cross

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Central Hawkeâ€™s Bay Branch of the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand (Inc) ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Nominations for the following positions were tabled at the meeting. Chairperson: Secretary: Treasurer: Club Capt/Branch Delegate: Editor:

Lynn Cross Ken Lyons Kaye Carswell Rod McKenzie Joyce Calder

COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Ruth Parker, (sitting member) Bruce Poole, Iain Gollan, Gary Weaver, (new members) Publicity Officer / Welfare officer: Sandra Cross (outside committee) VIC / VID Inspections and Valuations: John Foot (outside committee ) Meals/Club nights: Eva Gollan (outside committee) NOMINATIONS CLOSED: There being no further nominations it was proposed the nominations be accepted. Moved: Lynn Cross Sec: Ken Eason 25 YEAR BADGE PRESENTATION: Lynn then asked Bruce Poole, already a recipient of the 50 year membership badge to present John and Margaret Cleland with their 25 year continuous membership badges. Bruce then spoke of John and Margaret being stalwarts of the CHB VCC branch since its inception. He thanked them for their work organising rallies and runs particularly for the Veteran section. John then thanked the club for the badge presentation for himself and Margaret. GENERAL BUSINESS: The charge for Branch Levy was discussed briefly and it was agreed unanimously that no change would be made. Branch Annual Levy to remain the same as 2018 which is $20.00 for single membership and $23.00 for joint. Moved: Bruce Poole Sec: Suzanne McCool MEETING CLOSED: 8 00pm

Signed_______________________________________ Chairman

Austin Flying A Enthusiasts Car Clubâ€”11th Bi Annual National Rally 23rdâ€”26th October 2020 (Labour Weekend) The Austin Flying A Enthusiasts Car Club is holding its National Rally in Rotorua and would like to invite any Austin Owners to join us. The agenda for the weekend is: Friday Night: Registration from 4.00pm onwards. We will also be having a small BBQ for anyone who would like to join us. Cost per person to be advised (starting 6.30pm). Please note that this is a basic BBQ (does not include dessert). BYO Drinks. Saturday: Car Display Afternoon activity BBQ Dinner cost per person to be advised (starting 6.30pm) BYO Drinks Sunday: Group Photo Car run to a point of interest Afternoon at your own leisure Dinner and Prize giving If you wish to attend without an Austin, you may join in the car display in a Classic or Vintage Car, all moderns will need to be parked on the road. The photo shoot will be for Austin cars then a group photo with all cars attending. All cars must have a current WOF and Registration if taking part in this Rally. Registration forms are available now. If you are interested in attending or have any questions please contact our 11 th Bi Annual National Rally Organisers via E-mail or Phone listed below E-mails: Phone:

Eventscoordinator@austinflyinga.co.nz Secretary@austinflyinga.co.nz 0274810000 William (Club Captain / Events Coordinator) 09 2967 554 Lorraine (Secretary please leave a message)

GISBORNE 2021—15th NATIONAL MODEL A RALLY—Sunday 28th March—Sunday 4th April

Early Bird Registration is open for the 15th National Model A Ford Rally 2021. This will be held from Sunday 28 March to Sunday 04 April 2021 (Easter Weekend) in Gisborne at the A & P Showground's and Events Centre. Come along and join other Model A enthusiasts for a relaxed but entertaining time in Gisborne. Enjoy the friendly people and experience the ‘Real New Zealand’ driving your Model A. Gisborne is situated on the North Island’s East Coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, vineyards, orchards and good Model A roads. Sometimes referred to as the ‘City of Rivers’, Gisborne is the first City on earth to see the new day’s sun rise. ‘Early Bird’ indicates to the organisers you have chosen to receive your rally information early and avoid missing out on the news as it comes to hand, or tours that may have limited numbers. Don’t wait too long to register as we are limited to 300 entrants.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEE $20.00 To obtain your Early Bird Registration Form, email the organising team at:

gisbornemodelafordrally@gmail.com or phone one of the organising team member

David Mossman 0272 350 444 Rob Brown 0274 745 726 Karen Thomas 0274 190 191 Karen Thomas Secretary

Tony Bartlett 0272 725 648 Errol McAlpine 0274 543 983 Kristina Rarere 022 367 5776 23

For Sale 1974 Triumph Toledo 1500 I have only had her a year. I brought her up from Geraldine. Sadly, an old tennis injury to my left ankle flared up from driving a manual car again. It's done 10955k, rear wheel drive, warrant expires April, Rego Sept. She drives well and has no rust, has good tyres, new carpets and sheepskin car seat covers. She is a classic car and deserves to go to someone who will love her.

$3,500 for her â€” No Offers Carole Lindsay Ph 075789579 carn@kinect.co.nz

Austin 7 Ruby 1937 with lots of parts. Offers Contact Ian Bayliss on 027 555 8368 24

For Sale

Wanted Wanted, a front bumper for a 1946 Vauxhall J 14. Please phone Jim Spicer 027 2468 715 or email rustypatch.wpk@xtra.co.nz

1972 Hillman Hunter Excellent original condition Only 47300 miles Polar white with red upholstery. Automatic transmission. Been used on a number of VCC events for a number of years $5500.00 Contact Ray Freemantle 06 858 865.

For Sale

Competing in the CHB Veteran Rally, February 2016

1966 Mercedes Benz 250s 1914 Overland Model 79T Touring

A comfortable reliable touring car, well maintained and comes with a selection of spare parts.

Fully Restored A great motoring vehicle, Spare parts and information Won best restoration award in 2008 at the Willys Overland Club Victoria, Australia.

Interested parties Please Contact Bryan Malcolm, Phone: 06-8585-005 or Email: malcolm-b-j@xtra.co.nz 25

Phone: Neil Cox 021 023 33948