Chrysler Owners Club of Queensland Inc.
Club Run Reports

April 2007
 Run to the Gold Coast Swap

8 cars met at the Hyperdome and travelled in convoy to the 9th Annual Gold Coast Super Swap Meet and Show n Shine at Carrara run by the Automobile Restorer's Assoc Gold Coast. The cars were parked and everyone had a wander around the Swap and the 120 odd cars on display. The ARAGC flew up Leo
Geoghegan for the weekend and thanks go to Eric who came down and picked him up Saturday arvo and brought him down again on the Sunday. Leo was busy all
day signing autographs and selling his photos.. I noticed some of the boys picked up a few bargains and hopefully everyone enjoyed the day.
 There were several Mopar products in the Show n Shine, including a very nice American Charger and a PT Cruiser took out the Best Chrysler award.

See you all at the Super Swap next year !!
 by Lyle Ross
On The Run
It all started back in the dark hours of the April fools day of the year of our lord Walter P Chrysler at some ungodly hour of five AM yes there is such a time as FIVE AM on a Sunday, no it is not an April fools day trick there really is a five am.

And yes people on the run it all started then?<>&%#@$ what was that he said from under the covers she said I HAVE THINGS TO DO you may not.

So I dragged my weary chassis out of the comfort of the land of slumber and set to getting the almighty Phoenix ready and being told what to do (after 30 years you think her in doors would have worked it out she is talking to her self. 06:25 am we set off and I could not get lost as it was down to the Gateway and follow the white line to the Logan Hyper dome were we met Eric and Leo for a well earn’t cup of the elixir of the morning Coffee. Whist we waited for the rest of the Club to arrive a family with two teenage girls arrived and one of the girls screamed with excitement when she saw the (in her words) a purple car. She went running to dad and said look dad can we go see the purple car she was so exited about seeing Marks 36 Coup. WE all left the coffee shop and head for the meeting place.

The crew got larger as time went on and then the call to gather around and follow the well thought out direction that ended with and don’t get lost.

So the well represented coat of Chrysler Sheet Metal cruised off down the Motor Way heading for the Gold Coast Swap Meet. Eric in his Royal Wagon Graham in HIS 66 Phoenix a Black Charger that the age was disputed on it was manufactured in 11-74 and the VIN said it is a 75 so a short discussion was held to the conclusion that we were both right. We also had the Valiant Signet leading the way and the almighty Phoenix close behind cos could you imagine if I got lost following somebody I can still hear it I will leave it to your own imagination to work out it would not be safe for me at any time after that.

The usual Plastic and Rubber did the rubber necking and the classic sheet metal of the Chrysler Fine Cars cruised along the freeway. We picked two other fine looking specimens of the Chrysler fine family and off we went. I found three stalls that were selling Chrysler parts so it was good to see that, there was also a great range of classic cars to view and a good small selection of cars of all denominations for sale.

I said to her in doors after I found a 58 Fairlane you can drive the almighty Phoenix home and I will take the 58 home she indoors said in that case it will take a long time to get the almighty phoenix home cos she aren’t driving it home.  Rose hates the size of the Phoenix. (To long she says).

Well another run in the past and I have some photo’s for you viewing please until the next run T.T.F.N.

Graham McLean

"I used to be indecisive now I am not so sure"

March 2007
Run to Mal's House.
It all started the night before the run to Buderim (the BBQ at Mal’s place) A quick call to Tina the lovely Tina to find out who, what and when? That part was easy the next ten minutes got interesting.

You see her indoors had made plans to go to a candle party on the same day so I said DAM fine I will go on my own, then Ronny the partner of the girl Rose (her indoors ) is going to this candle party with said I’ll come with on the run! So he did. Two revheads on a 318 up the highway not legal.

As we got to the meeting place, the BP on the Highway heading north it was covered in those two wheel things called bikes. As time passed and some of the cars arrived we started to feel not so crowded out, at the required time we were given the lets go folks from the lovely Tina. I must say we had the usual Phoenix (when not at work) the convertible got grounded and the Chrysler Charger was allowed out for the day. It was a pleasant cruise up the highway and the usual plastic and rubber had a good look. We also had Chris with his Mopar Henry Leonards VC Valiant had changed shape and looked almost like a Jap MOPAR. We also had some club members caught a lift in a delta 88. This 88 was defiantly an eye catcher.

As we got to the turn off we had Eric on point duty directing the cars to a parking spot so as to be guided by the big Mal to the BBQ spot.  And let me tell you it was a beautiful BBQ spot. We also had others arrive during the day as they were heading home from some place. I would like to take this opportunity to say to Mal and his lovely lady thank you for the welcome to your home and the time and effort your young family went to on the day with the certificates THANK YOU.

The Tudor that Mal and friends are working on is coming along just fine and we can not wait to see the end result. As always the tucker was great the company was as always outstanding and made very very welcome.

Until next time ON THE RUN T.T.F.N.

Graham McLean
66DGE
Member No 331

"I used to be indecisive now I am not so sure"

Samford Village Historical Museum, Sunday 12th March 2006

It started back when I received an email from the cyber space thingie.  A club run to the Samford Village Historical Museum on Sunday 12th March is happening. That set the panic button off, as the Mclean household can not handle such a huge responsibility, that is getting up on Sunday early then the decision making process began. What do we get? What do we have? What do we take with us? And if you think that was bad enough, where is the meeting place? That all happened in the space of getting out of bed and leaving some hour or so later. You say so smugly that it was at the Brook Hotel car park.  Well for a person that drove a cab around Brisbane for ten years and a wife that is a Courier driver, it’s not so easy.

Well we made it.  We found the Brook Hotel car park at nine o’clock and in true Chrysler spirit every one was waiting for us. Many fine example of motoring sheet metal, with coupes from the 30’s to the well recognized and fondly remembered Charger. The Cruise began the early coupes have a great deal of wow look at that as they travelled the road, the 50s model had the grace a stance that only a 50s car could have, The Phoenix had a great deal of head turning ability, the 69s Cuda has a load of “look he’s on the wrong side of the car” and the Valiants of the 60s through to the late 70s all had their proud place on the road escorting the Classics of Chrysler Owners Club on the club run along Samford Road. It was not just a mob of old cars on the road, it was a car enthusiasts dream as we cruised along people were stopping to look.  They looked up from their weekend work they came out from their shops to see the classics of Australian motoring history roll past.

At the Samford museum we were given the honour of the Park (usually closed off to cars) to display our pride and joy. Whilst we set up people came from all directions to look at the Chrysler’s displayed there. The museum was very interesting with the displays showing the history of the area and the highs and some tragic lows of the region. And some of us even became adventuress enough to test the scales of the old rail yard from the early 1900’s - it was heard by many that the scales were wrong (in who’s favour we will never know). The people on the Club run all enjoyed them selves and we had a wonderful lunch. My sincere thanks to the chef of the day.  All pitched in to help clean up and as the saying goes many hands make light work. Time just flew past and then it was time to leave and return the classics of Australian motoring history back to their safe garages and homes and await the next club run.

Graham & Rosemary McLean.
1966 Dodge Phoenix.

April run to AUSTRALIAN LIGHT HORSE & HINZE DAM

With my AP6 Valiant (Mrs Grant) low on juice, the Denman Boys (Mick & Paul) optioning to have an ASMF meeting and attend the swap meet at Redbank Plains, Eric in Adelaide, Bruce already booked, I had no option than to take up the offer of a lift with Tina and little John in their recently acquired CM Valiant.  After meeting other members at the Logan Hyperdome we set forth to Mudgeeraba.

The Mudgeeraba Troop 14th Australian Light Horse Regiment is situated besides the Mudgeeraba Showgrounds and is well worth a visit if you are in the area.  Dedicated to the preservation of the rich history of the Australian Light Horse, the regiment is today still regarded as one of the most highly respected regiments in any theatre of war.  The museum itself is located in an old farmhouse and barn and contains some fascinating artefacts.  After a quick look through the museum morning tea was put on for us.  Thanks going to the Curator, Harold Johnston and his wife for the lovely cuppa and biscuits.

After leaving the museum a little chaos was had when we lost Bill Burl and Lyle in his Chrysler convertible on the way to Hinze Dam.  Eventually everyone found their way and we made it to Hinze Dam.  It seems however, that the place is a fairly popular picnic area with the PT Cruiser Club occupying the top car park.  It was then decided that a spot be found on the lower side of the dam wall. One was located and proved to be quite pleasurable.  The BBQ was set up and it didn’t take long to get the food cooking.  Thanks going to all those who helped in the cooking especially that little girl who dobbed in her father Andrew, “My dad’s a chef”(- sorry I didn’t catch your name!).  Guess who is cooking next time!

It was great to see that the kids were enjoying themselves and thanks going to little John Denman for keeping them amused.  I am sure that the parents didn’t mind!  Helen also kept the big kids amused with a raffle of a doll can holder that was eventually won by Barry Benger.

All in all, a very enjoyable day that I am sure many of the members would be keen to repeat.  Many thanks again to the social committee (Helen) and Bruce who once again towed the club’s barbecue trailer.
See ya all on the next one!!

P. S: Best wishes to Jean Burl – get well soon!
Laurence


June 6th Club Rally to Strawberry Farm/Jacobs Well

Seeing as my AP6 (Mrs Grant) Valiant was a little low on fuel and the 54 (Della) Dodge under the weather and as Paul had better plans than go to the swap meet on the Gold Coast (what the!!) I decided I would take up the offer of a ride with Mick and Tina.  Little did I know that they would bring their red VF convertible.  Now anyone who has not been in a convertible they are lovely things to ride in especially if the weather is good.  Unfortunately the weather was not as favourable as we wished with overcast conditions looming so I was wondering just how we would go especially with the top down.  But more on that later . Upon meeting up with other members including Michelle and Graham Ball in their sweet AP3 Royal, Bruce in his 1940 Dodge Utility, John in VF VIP and members of the PT Cruisers Club at the Logan Hyperdome, I decided that Bruce’s ute was not so squeezie. This was thanks largely to Eric who decided we weren’t good enough and went to play with his wooden boat club mates!  One notably excused member from this run was Le Presidenta, Leonard, who was sick himself and at the same time, minding a very pregnant wife, (Abbe) and kids! Good on ya Leonard!

Our first stop was the Strawberry Farm at Pimpama for morning tea.  After parking our Chryslers, everyone filled up on a lovely Devonshire Tea (two very large scones with jam and cream and tea or coffee).  The Strawberry Farm also had an animal nursery for kids where it seems a lot of big kids also enjoyed feeding the donkeys, sheep and cattle.  Just ask Stuart!

After the Strawberry farm our next stop was Jacobs Well, a well known fishing stop for lunch.  For those who have not gone to Jacobs Well before it is quite a nice drive through the area from either Pimpama or Beenleigh with cane farms and little settlements and stores to explore.  Once at Jacobs Well we secured our favourite position in the park and proceeded to set up the BBQ.  With the BBQ cooking nicely the CLUB SUPPLIED chicken, sausages, bacon and onions everyone proceeded to continue on with chin wagging.  Once ready the food certainly disappeared fairly quickly, however, there was plenty to go around.  Did I mention that the chill factor had increased?  I think everyone was glad that we had served a hot lunch as the cold breeze from the South had definitely increased.  Luckily most of us were prepared and wore warm clothing.  Our you beaut club jackets certainly paying for themselves.  So after a somewhat pleasant day it was decided to head home early to a nice cup of hot chocolate and a blanket.

I would encourage all members to participate on Club runs as that is the easiest part of being a Club Member. As the saying goes: “ the more on the run the more the fun” – So see you on the next one!  A special mention to the PT Cruiser Club – thanks for your attendance and please join us again – I am just itching to take a ride in a cruiser!

Laurence

HIDE & SEEK RUN -BUDERIM

I met Eric at his place nice and early on Sunday morning to accompany him in his Royal (the Grey Ghost) on the run to the Super Bee honey Farm, only to find one Royal with a flat battery. After administering first aid requirements, she finally burst into life and we headed off to meet other members at the BP Servo at Burpengary.
We had fifteen cars and 1 fire engine in all and 24 people on the run. The Burl’s and the Benger’s from the Gold Coast end, all the Brisbane crew and Lyle and sandy from the Nambour end. We spent an enjoyable hour and a half looking at Bees, Honey and sampling honey waffles (only a couple of calories only).

We did have a small dissection of the convoy as Eric and Shirley made a wrong turn and seven cars turned of to try and turn around which they finally achieved at the top of Buderim Mountain, everyone finally returned to the designated destination.

After the Bee Show we headed up to Buderim to a very nice place called Buderim Forest park for lunch.  This time we had the company of Mal Clonan in his 1964 International Fire Engine.  What a lovely old truck! However, our convoy managed to lose the big red truck and this time Eric got lost. The big red truck managed to find his way back and so did we, eventually.

It was a very enjoyable day, thanks to everyone who went for making it a fun day.

Swanny

Allora Heritage Festival - 27 January 2002

Sunday dawned a beautiful sunny day after several days of cloud and light showers.  Ten cars were ready to roll at 8.00am when we headed off from Gailes Roadhouse for Allora with an assortment of vehicles from a 1940 Dodge to a new PT Cruiser.  We met the Denman’s and their two cars at the Ipswich Bypass and Mick & Ruth at the Gatton College then turned left on the previously uncharted road (for us) to Clifton and Allora via Heifer Creek.  This turned out to be quite a good road with a few hills and bends in the middle where of course we passed our only semi trailer on the narrowest bit, just to make sure we had a good covering of dust before getting to the showground.
Upon reaching Allora nobody knew exactly where the showgrounds were so we had to do a couple of rounds of the town and ask a local before we actually found the place, arriving right on 10.00 am just as one of several parades was starting so it took quite a while to find our way through the lines of cars and trucks waiting to get into the ring.
I’ve never seen such a big variety of cars, trucks, farm machinery and tractors in one place at one time.  The voice of the commentator was calling out each vehicle as it went by was none other than our very own Viv Fitzgerald.  Never have I heard anyone with such a knowledge of dates of manufacturer of everything from haybalers to tractors to cars and trucks from the early 1900’s to the present day, and he was spot on every time.
Following the grand parade at 1.00pm we decided to make our way home via Cunningham’s’ Gap. Bruce showed us all how extremely generous he can be when he shouted the whole convey coffee and biscuits (which were ‘free’) at a roadside “driver survivor” set-up about 20 kms down the road.
All in all, a very interesting day even though we lacked numbers, maybe it was a bit far for some to travel, but enjoyed by all who went.  See you on the next one!

Stuart Cooper
Beaudesert Swap –16th September 2001

The Beaudesert Swap it seems has always been a favourite swap for some, as ironically this year marked the 10th anniversary for the Denman brothers hitting a kangaroo on the way to the Beaudesert Swap (thankfully in a "Mercury Cougar" not a Chrysler Product).  Looking back and the troubles of the past thankfully Paul decided to take the Plymouth Barracuda convertible with Mick, Grandfather Jack Denman and myself tagging along for the ride.

However, as in previous years and as usual many of us failed in our attempts to find any good Chrysler bits, the resultant being that no one got the chance to spend all the spare cash (according to Eric) that we had accumulated for such an occasion.  With this mind and the need to keep our club runs interesting (rather than just sifting through GM and FXXX rubbish) our now ‘new’ official club run coordinator,  Peter ‘Swanny’ Swanston, has kindly come to the rescue and pencilled in the Beaudesert Swap as an optional club run for 2002.  So next year we shall be going too - ah not so fast-you will just have to wait and see!

With 12 o’clock fast approaching and with our tummies doing their best to rumble it was time that we departed to our favourite meeting place in Jubilee Park.  By the time we arrived both the girls and the guys had the BBQs cooking, so it wasn’t long before we all tucked into the club supplied meat, chicken and sausages.  This all washed down with club-supplied drinks which just adds that extra bonus of being with some great people to socialise with.  Thankfully there was plenty of food to go around as most of us had rung Jenny giving her an indication of how many to cater for.

As always it is great to see a good roll up of old and new members on club runs, with this being the first run for Tim who had just joined the club.  Tim was a bit worried that his AP3 Chrysler Royal wouldn’t come up to the standards of other members cars but was pleasantly surprised to see that this was not the case.  In fact when he open the bonnet it was like a mob of bees swarming after someone has disturbed the nest!  On this note I would encourage all members to participate on Club runs, as this is one of the easiest parts of being a Club Member.  In saying this if you haven’t been game to come on a club run how about coming on the next one.  And we don’t mind if you bring your modern vehicle – just ask Ray who turned up in a recycled Chrysler after making some excuse that his VG Coupe was being repainted!   As per usual many departed for home fairly early with the call now going out to anyone that has any ideas regarding some club games to get in contact with the social committee.

As Swanny says: the more on the run the more the fun –see you on the next one.

Laurence
POMONA SILENT MOVIES

Almost everyone was waiting as we pulled up at BP Burpengary.  Leaving the Humber at home Colleen and myself were treated as guests by Bruce and his Mum in the coupe, with Eric deciding to make his own way in the Royal.  As this was a combined club run, something we haven’t had in a long time, the Model A Club were there as were the Early Ford V8 Club, the Gold Coast Restorers Club and of course our club – the Chrysler Owners Club of Queensland Inc.  Due to the speed limitations of some of these early built cars and having no basis when it comes to travelling in convoy in a club run like this the Model A’s decided to get off to an early start and the remainder of the clubs followed in hot pursuit.  It was a good run to Pomona with no traffic problems and all of the club vehicles travelling at a good speed and mixing with the traffic well.  And amazingly no one got lost!  Unfortunately however, for Eric the Grey Ghost (Royal) was running on five cylinders and had to turn back to Brizzie and miss out on all the excitement.

Arriving at Pomona at about 10.15am we all disembarked from the comfort of our vehicles and enjoyed the morning tea and general hospitality of the management of the theatre.  Several members of our club (who shall remain nameless –yes – Jill and Lex) and the other clubs had spent the night in the pub just up the road also joined us.  (Now I wonder what they got up too?).  All up we ended up with 84 people in attendance, a magnificent result.

 Our host Kevin Franz who operates the theatre said we were all in for a laugh or too and he certainly didn’t disappoint us.  The whole idea behind the Silent Movie Theatre is of course that the movie itself has no sound and only subtitles.  Many of these old type movies are also full of stunts and evolve around a villain or two and a good guy (well this one certainly did) and it was explained to us that whilst there is a piano accompaniment, audience participation was expected.  A far cry from the movies we see today.  So didn’t we all partake?  During the  movie: Buster Keaton’s: “The General” the entire movie theatre rocked with howls of laughter, heaps of boo’s and hoorays and some very funny ad-libbing from the crowd, all of which added to the enjoyment of the day.  After the movie was finished and saying our good byes to our fantastic hosts at the Silent Movie theatre we all headed down to Lake McDonald for lunch.  The lake is certainly a pretty spot and a fantastic place for a picnic lunch with plenty of shade and parking.  It was fortunate that most clubs had supplied lunch for their members and everyone chipped in to help, as there was many a hungry mouth or two to feed.  After much chin wagging and the telling of some tall stories most departed early to drive back home.  Unfortunately for some the day wasn’t quite over with poor Bill & Jean in the Plymouth having two punctures on the way home.  Luckily for them Bruce was towing the club trailer and was able to lend them the spare wheel.

All in all the Pomona Run, like previous runs to Pomona is always an enjoyable day, a good run for the cars and everyone enjoys the film.  Thanks everyone for your support on these outings, your attendance is vital to our club.

Swanny

QUEENSLAND AIRCRAFT MUSEUM – CALOUDRA,  21/5/2001

With Bruce’s arm (whilst out of the plaster cast) still sore, Paul at the Dinmore Swap and having to work that afternoon,  Michael and Tina and a earful of kids (John & Jay) in the VF VIP,  Lex in hospital,  Eric giving Bruce and the Club Run the Big A, and my car low on fuel I reluctantly took up Bruce’s offer to join him on the club run.  Unfortunately it was one of those club runs that like a Claytons “was a club run you shouldn’t have when having a club run”.  Anyhow after much deliberation over such things as “I should be working on my caravan” Bruce and myself met up with other club members at BP Burpengary.  One notable exception being Ted and Jenny Sando.  Apparently, unknown to us at the time Ted and Jenny had broken down with all the food!  This was going to be an interesting run!

With Swanny leading in the Humber (Humber without a slant) the convoy was kept at a reasonable pace.  Whilst Swanny only managed to get us lost once by taking the second roundabout instead of the first this allowed Phillip in the Lancer to sneak in front of us.  Once inside the aircraft museum and paying our admission fee, members proceeded to check out the displays.  The museum holds some very interesting items of interest and is well worth the admission fee to “have a look”.  Graham Nicholson for example got interested in the uniforms,  the Denman boys interested in the mobile aircraft stairs, even I got interested when I spotted a jet fighters helmet with “Lawrence” marked on it and despite my best efforts of flea bargaining the museum fellow he didn’t want a bar of my request to take it home!  ‘Swanny’ however, it seems was particularly interested in other things besides the exhibits - especially how they removed the poor blighter from gun turrets after seeing a little too much action! YuK!  (After seeing the movie ‘Pearl Habour’ I now know what it looks like!- Ed ).  Once outside Peter, Colleen, Bruce and myself decided to check out the collection of aircraft which included names such as DE Havilland Drover MK 3 VH-FDR “John Flynn” – what a mouth full!  The one I liked most was an old DC 3, which in my opinion was not designed to be piloted by people with long legs, as sitting in the cockpit would have been virtually impossible.  Like driving Eric’s Royal I like the seat back as far as possible!

By the time we had checked out the museum display the weather turned “bloody awful,    apparently”?  It did turn on us and the temperature dropped and the rain and chill factor increased.  Luckily most of us were prepared and wore warm clothing.  Our you beaut club jackets certainly paying for themselves.  It was then decided that we stay on the grounds at the airport and set up the club BBQ and shade tent (too bad for those looking for us a Golden Beach).  Bruce and ‘Swanny’ leaving the rest of us to do all the work and set up the club tarp (their excuse being to pick up Leon) for shelter.  Luckily Ted and Jenny arrived in a FRAUD, at least we now had some food!  The girls (Jenny, Colleen, Olivia, Jean etc) quickly prepared the snags, beef patties and onions leaving the guys doing the cooking in the rain!  Jenny Sando did a fantastic job of feeding some very hungry mouths with the food quickly disappearing.  (Remember it pays to Ring Jenny on (07) 3245 170 and tell her how many to cater for).  Luckily Tina had brought along some small cakes else we would have all starved!

It was also good to see Leon Riley, Eric Allen and wife who we don’t see that often and Ray Tocher and family who have been members since 1988 and never been on a club run!  Don’t get the wrong picture Ray these club runs are not often this damp and cold and members are more active!!   During our stay at the museum another run was taking place and half a dozen veteran cars turned up including a Wolsely, a very early Daimler, and a few Model T Fords.  If you think you were cold spare a thought for those cars that never had side curtains and had to drive home in a head wind at forty miles an hour!  Deciding it was just too cold and wet most members departed early.  To top off a pretty bad day the Sunshine Coast Road served another blow whilst heading home.  Yep a traffic jam – it seems everyone had the same idea – home to some hot chocolate and a blanket.  As Swanny says the more on the run, the more the fun.
SEE YOU ON THE NEXT ONE!

Laurence

Would you like to join us?  If so check out the ‘Forward Look’ Section of the Newsletter for further details and don’t forget to ring Jenny!

Toombul Bowls Club Run- ‘Bev and Viv’s Big Day Out’- 8/4/2001

Peter and Colleen arrived around 8.30 am Sunday morning to pick me up so as to be at Toombul Bowls Club for a 9.00 Am start.  We arrived to be greeted by fellow members and more followed as it approached 9.00 in all about 16 people were there to learn the finer art of Lawn Bowls.
Before any activities began we settled in for morning tea and scones and then out to the green in all Bev made up 4 teams, two of each on each lane (or green). I could not play as my arm was in plaster after a fall from my truck (6 weeks holidays!). Also a few of the ladies didn’t play but we were enthusiast watchers and supporters as there was plenty of action. Bev and Viv spent about ½ hour showing all the contestants which way to bowl the bowls (not balls) and which way to fare the bias (it makes the ball curve in or out). Some people didn’t take proper notice of this part therefore the bowls went off into other lanes.  What surprised me was the way and speed some of the bowlers acquired some of their skills some playing extremely competitive, even Viv & Bev applauding.

Some of the better shots/or bowls I thought, not because I got a free ride there and back, were those taken by Colleen Swanston who could be heard laughing the length and breath of the bowling green when she bowled a couple of bowls which nearly ended up on top of the pill (the little white ball).  Ray Dahlin wasn’t far behind her.  On all accounts some of the beginners looked to an outsider with more practice there would be a few prospective lawn bowlers who probably in a few years to come will join a club. Also everyone I spoke to who participated in the game said they had a ball and would have another go.

After the game Peter, Colleen and myself had to leave reluctantly but were later informed the lunch the club provided for the remainder was excellent and enjoyed by all. As usual Bev and Viv did not stop for a minute from looking after everyone. I am positive everyone who attended would love to thank Bev and Viv once again for your timeless effort and I think from now on, on future runs you two should sit back and let some of the others wait on you for a change.

Thanks again,

Bruce Robinson
GOLD COAST TWEED CHRYSLER VALIANT CAR CLUB’S SHOW AND SHINE- 25/03/2001

With the Chrysler Expo committee keen to get some ideas from a Chrysler Show & Shine it was decided that we make the Gold Coast Tweed Chrysler Valiant Car Club’s Show and Shine the official club run for March.  However despite my best efforts to provide the correct information in the newsletter it seems a few people must have got to bed later than expected with the Just Rock drive and jive drive-in run the night before and forgotten our departure time at the Hyperdome at 7.30am.  Or maybe it was the though of those pubrescibles we had failed to leave behind at the Hyperdome or that the Ormiston Swap was on.  Whatever the case this only proves that one must be prepared to arrive at the set down time as per the magazine and their partners are ready to leave home when instructed to do so.  If you don’t believe me just ask someone like Mark who came with Kerry in the big red Chrysler 300 convertible.

Unfortunately for Mick Guanine his Chrysler started spewing water everywhere in the servo next door to where we meet and decided to hitch a ride with me and Bruce in the Dodge whilst Swanny went with Ken Stapleton in his VJ and Eric who was still recovering from my Beer fetish last month when with Ken and Rowan in the VE.  Little did we know what would happen next.  With Bruce leading Mick soon found out why doors on older model vehicles, like those on early 1940 Dodge sedans are called ‘Suicide’ Doors despite the pleas of Bruce not to open the door to find out why, failed.  Luckily Bruce’s quick thinking saved Mick and Ruth and the door from departing the 40 sedan onto the M1!  Following our arrival at the Local Hero Hotel it seemed we were a tad early with only 5 cars in the parking lot.  It soon filled however with a fair number of cars and two Dodge Trucks.

In order to escape the heat of the day, about 10.30 some of us decided to enter the Local Hero Hotel to have a few refreshments –the kind that were sampled at the Brewery a month before.  Brenda and Colleen tried their luck on the Pokies and whilst Colleen apparently was fairly successful, Brenda instilled in us that she transferred all her luck to Colleen.

Around 1.00 p.m saw the trophy presentation with several members picking up awards.  Roland Wendt and his wife (who apparently have been in the club for two years and never been on a club run) won a trophy for their CL Ute.  (Which goes to show that it pays to go on these club runs!!!)  Bruce again won a prize for the sedan adding another trophy to the collection (how many is that Bruce?) whilst Wendy and Graham Harris won a trophy for their very nice VG Mexicana Coupe, along with Narelle and Hank for their Dodge ute..  Not to be out done Swanny insisted that he would have won a prize for the best Humber had their being one for that category!  I reckon there should have been a trophy for the best paint especially for those flames on Dean Webb ‘s ‘54 Dodge which has got me thinking about the paint on my own.  Following the trophy presentations we departed, some of us leaving to do the many chores at home –Not!

For some the afternoon wasn’t quite over.  On the run home I noticed that Mick was holding Ruth even tighter and not even willing to go near the door and was glad to get back to the servo and see that we managed to get his car going again for the run back to Gatton.  Rowan and Ken had meantime dropped Eric at Bruce’s.  However, as Eric had left his keys in Bruce’s car Eric promptly asked for Ken and Rowan’s advice on Bruce’s Caravan.  Whilst I not sure what they said I can assure you, after helping Bruce fit a piece of ply to the caravan after the run, he is doing an excellent job and will come in handy when going to the Birdsville Races.

All in all it wasn’t a bad day and I am sure that next time all the excuses, bad timings, bad luck, poor convey rules, lack of instructions and breakdowns will all be forgotten as we do it all again next time.  Special thanks going to the Gold Coast Tweed Chrysler Car Club for inviting us along and we shall see them along with you and your Chrysler or Related Product at Chrysler Expo 2001 in October.  If you haven’t been on a club run and you can go on one don’t sit at home and wonder! Go man GO!! You won’t be disappointed! As Swanny says the more on the run the more the fun – see ya on the next one !           Laurence


Australia Day Rally –26 January 2001

W e all assembled at the clubrooms for an 8.30 am departure to Ormiston School to join the
  Bayside Vehicle Restorers Club for breakfast.  All told there were some 15 members’ cars. One of them being a previous member, Ross and Karen Mc Intyre from the North Coast who came along with Sandy and Lyle.  Another new member from the North Coast was Philip Tucker & his wife in their Chrysler Lancer Hatchback.  All club runs if they are to be enjoyable for all who attend must be well organised.  This one I am afraid was not.  The departure time of 8.30 was too late as on arriving at Ormiston there was over 220 cars present & breakfast was but over and instruction sheets for the rally were not available to all the members.  I would like to point out it was no fault of the host car club as we were so late.  After about 15 minutes the rally headed off and most of our members declined to participate as we were just starting to relax.  I believe that those that did go on this run did have a good time.  However for some of them, they were almost home by 10.15 am.

The rest of us proceeded to go to Wellington Point following yours truly who got lost.  Eventually we arrived and found Lyle and Sandy and friends sitting in a snack bar enjoying the cool bay breezes and cool drinks.  There were six cars left in our convey and unfortunately there was no parking within ½ km or so.  We then decided to go have coffee but on arriving decided to have a cold drink instead and ended up at the Wellington Hotel for pleasant hour and a half.  The clock was approaching 11.30 so we all headed off for ‘Sharks’ at Victoria Point for lunch.  On arriving at the football oval all the cars from the rally had arrived.  There were cars from all makes and models, which looked spectacular.  After a quick look around we entered inside the club, which handled the crowd adequately.  The main meal was only $2.50 if you brought a drink at the bar.  Very reasonable and tasty.  As usual after dinner everyone started to drift off home, which is usually always the case as nearly all our best run supporters travel the furthest.  Thanks to all the people who participated on the run and hopefully next time we will be better organised, even if I have to take a hand myself.

Bruce Robinson

The Club Christmas Party

For several years, I have been resolving to do the Christmas Party report soon after the event while I can still remember who was there and what happened.  Of course this year it was no different – here it is, mid January with the next issue of ‘Chrysler News’ due and the report still not done.  Kerry’s’ President’s message has helped remind me of a few things so here goes.

The numbers were down a bit this year probably due to the party being held on the Saturday, however others got in first so we were stuck with the Saturday.  The number of vehicles attending was also down with several members intent on hitching a ride.  Bev for instance chauffeured Laurence and Viv as well as myself.  Even though Bev and Viv have a number of Chryslers within their stable Bev decided to drive their Toyota.  Although a bit embarrassing, this was soon forgotten with other members rocking up to the party in everything else than their Chrysler!  4 pm saw the fun commence which lasted well into the night.

Ted volunteered to be the DJ for the night and although I won’t make any smart comments about him being talen-ted only to say he did a fine job and brought along a fantastic Juke Box that also incorporated a microphone.  Well didn’t that microphone get a work out.  It seems when it comes to singing some members must have been jealous of Mark’s attempts to out do Elvis at Leo Mullers in July last year with Kerry Gannon showing us his singing skills.  Michael Appelman also set the night alight wearing the brightest shirt anyone had seen did a great job on the mouth organ and enjoyed himself immensely.  Michael Maxwell also provided some entertainment by playing the bagpipes whilst dressed in a Scottish costume.  Actually, he was down the back practising for a function later that night thinking he won’t be heard over the racket Ted and Kerry were making when he was spotted and roped in (the girls only wanted to look up his kilt! –ed).  For the little and not so little kids Jenny’s daughter also put on a fine show, which provided plenty of entertainment.

Santa Claus made an appearance and promptly handed out Christmas presents to all the children that attended.  Some bigger ones tried to sit on Santa’s lap though I am not at liberty to say whom.  Club members also got a chance to pick up a unisex gift, which was quite a nice gesture.  Mick and Ruth Guinane collected the trophy for best attendance overall with Bill & Jean Burl tied with Bev and Viv Fitzgerald for best attendance on the club runs.  Following the handing out of presents trophies etc, it was tucker time and the social committee didn’t disappoint anyone, as the spread of food was incredible and delicious.  As per usual there were plenty of cold refreshments to go around.  By all accounts those people who where able to attend certainly enjoyed themselves.

By 9 pm (or was it 9.30 pm?) and seeing as how it was pass my bedtime myself, Bev, Viv and Laurence left the party fairly early, leaving the majority of hard rockers and rollers to party the night away.  According to inside sources the party didn’t finish that late, as poor Mr Talent-Ted had to take the Juke Box back home.  Needless to say there was still plenty of cold refreshments and food left over.  I wonder where these all disappeared too?

Sunday saw a few of us at the Club Rooms to finish cleaning up afterwhich, to show we have no prejudice we headed off to look at the Holden Show at Carina.  (Speak for yourself Eric!  In fact I think Eric means we were looking for ideas for Chrysler Expo - Ed).  Walking around in the hot sun with a stubby and an ice cream for breakfast was about the last thing I really needed but what the heck it only happens once a year.  See you at the next one.

Look forward to seeing you ALL during 2001.

Eric Levett


‘Honeyworld’ on the Gold Coast - 19 November 2000

        It seems some people are more interested in either working or watching the great race at Bathurst than going on a club run.  To which I cannot figure out why?  Working- no excuses there.  Bathurst – no excuse there either.  The majority of the race action shown on TV is only between the Frauds and Dunedoors so what is the point of staying home!?  The rest of us –those that decided to go on the run (on an absolute perfect day-no excuses here either) met at the Hyperdome where we failed to drop off the Putrescibles a month or so ago.  Despite being armed and ready with a map and instructions where we where going, the chief steward (Bruce) decided that we skip these and go straight down to the Coolangatta turn off and double back to Currumbin.  This seemed OK although it seems that the other members wanted to try how fast they could go on the new M1 and see if they could find the speed cameras whilst leaving me behind to play catch up.  Personally I think we all need to re-read the convoy rules on rallies, especially the one that says that ‘the speed of the rally convoy is governed via the slowest vehicle’.  Thankfully I knew where we where going!  Upon arriving at the Coast Bill and Jean had kindly secured a spot for us to park our vehicles near the park were we were having lunch.

Seeing as how we had arrived early at Honeyworld, we where able to take the tour earlier than expected.  This turned out to be very informative and provided some very interesting facts including the one …where the female bees do all the work and the male bees do nothing but sit around and mate with the females.  Sounds like a great life hey guys.  Only one catch.  As soon as the male has performed his duty he dies! Damn!  We were also presented with an informative talk about the hives themselves and how the bees make honey on specially constructed frames.  It seems no one was interested in joining the beekeeper, maybe the thought of being stung crossed our minds.  Following the show we had an opportunity to taste different types of honey – some sweeter than others.  There was also other tit-bits and pieces for us to buy.  Some of us deciding on some chocolate-coated honeycomb, which was quickly devoured by the rest of the group.

We then leisurely strolled to the park and our lunch spot whilst taking in the cool sea breezes.  Bill, Bruce and Mick soon had the BBQ cooking the snags and pieces of steak whilst the girls buttered the bread.  It seems that Ted had forgotten about the rest of us and brought only enough chicken pieces for two people.  These somehow soon mysteriously disappeared between Eric and Ted.  The rest of us had to be content with eating the club-supplied bread, steak, sausages onions and drinking ice cold cans of soft drink.  Thanks guys!

After lunch those remaining decided to hit the beach to feel the ‘sand between the toes’ and to walk off some of the lunch.  The beach wasn’t packed either which was quite a pleasant surprise considering that it was a nice little spot.  One must remember this when one venters forth to the Gold Coast for a swim or family outing.  Some of the guys where disappointed that they didn’t spot any white pointers (if you get my drift).  The only thing I spotted were the Aeroplanes taking off from Coolangatta Airport!  So after removing the sand between our toes or between the shoe laces in my case, we all went our separate ways arriving home just in time to watch the end of the great race at Bathurst and reflect on what a great day we had.  As the saying goes:  The more on the run the more the fun!

See YOU on the next one.
Laurence Delbridge

P.S - Just a reminder- there is a trophy at the end of the year to those people/person who attends the most runs –so if you can go on them – go – as I said there are no excuses!


Beaudesert Swap – 17 September 2000
Well the mere male in the club has got writers cramp, and has left it to the weaker sex? to write the club run report.  I know   God created man before woman – but I also know that you do a rough draft before you produce a masterpiece.  Now back to the Dust Bowl-er Beaudesert Swap.  It seemed as large as usual and unless you knew people by their backsides, it was head down and bum up.  I’m glad most members had their club shirts on – it was one way to recognise members.  I’m pleased to report no excess baggage was brought home to this house.  By 11.30 we decide to leave the dust behind and go to the park.  They straggled in one by one and two by two and everyone was getting hungry – Yes- you guessed it- we were waiting for Bruce with the trailer.  We had bread and butter, which Brian & I slaved over, while everyone else stood or sat and watched us – but we needed meat!  At last they arrived and with a lot of directions and reversing, the men rallied around and we soon had the smell of onions and meat cooking.

There was a good roll up of vehicles and members and even 2 A Model Fords who were friends of Bill and Jean Burl from the Gold Coast.  It was also good to see new members on our run.  However they and others must learn a few rules and regulations on these outings.  The most important one being: please phone Jenny Sando so she can organise the food.  All in all, it was a very good day.  Everyone and everything was covered in dust owing to the weather and one felt sorry for people in the area with threats of bushfires, but all went home pleased that they had spent another pleasant day with other members of a similar interest.  In saying this we would like to see more of our members at our meetings so you can have your say into the running of the club.  This would also help the social side of meetings and our club outings.  See you all on future runs.
Bev & Viv Fitzgerald


HERITAGE PARK & MUSEUM - PIMPAMA  6th August 2000
Putrescible (this is the correct spelling Eric! –Ed) is a fairly big word to be using at 7am on a Sunday. However,  Bruce used it in front of myself, Swanny and Colleen when we attempted to dispose of some of the contents of the Club trailer at his place before disconnecting it from my other car (Fraud) to attach it to the 1940 Dodge Coupe.  With Colleen and myself sharing the cosy back seat of the Coupe on the run down to the Logan Hyperdome we learnt that Putrescible means growing rotten etc, and such stuff is not fit to grace the wheelie bins of such salubrious suburbs as Carindale.  Apparently this is what happens to Tucker which sits in the club trailer for a couple of weeks at Hendra – on this note one must remember to check the trailer for left overs in the future and eat them before they become Putrescible!

Having furthered our education we arrived at the Hyperdome to meet the rest of the crew and spent some time looking over some of the newer vehicles in the club including Lisa & Valter’s VF Coupe with those very nice wheels and interior and John’s very original looking 1960 AP3 Chrysler Royal – good cars those AP3’s even though the tow bars can’t handle trailers full of Putrescibles –this requiring the use of a Fraud.  Mark was enthralled by the Corvettes also assembling –or was that on the FNC run a week later – (must try and do the run reports closer to the run in future!).  Thankfully they weren’t with us as Laurie remarked what …….. (you can guess the rest).  Unfortunately with the looking of cars etc we forgot all about the putrescibles which remained with us as we had intended to donate them to the management of the Hyperdome.

A good run down the highway saw us at Heritage Park where we stopped in the outside car park.  Everyone was quite happy outside until it was explained that if we brought our cars inside we would get in for free.  I believe the chap at the gate could smell the putrescibles and felt that (a) this would scare the customers away and we better get the trailer out of the way and (b) if those poor devils can’t afford fresh tucker we had best let them in for free!

The initial impression on entering the Heritage Park was that we will see this in about an hour,  but as it turned out once you went across the gully past the old tractors there was more than was obvious from first appearances. We certainly had plenty to keep us occupied from displays of old motorbikes, radios, telegraph equipment, a toilet display (did you say toilet display –Ed?) – yes - a toilet display with the different types of cisterns and toilet seats –(Oh I see for getting rid of stuff that will become putrescible! - Ed.), stationary engines, blacksmithing, old trucks, tractors, tanks (military tanks), a working saw mill to craft shops and sheep shearing displays, earthmoving equipment to horse and cart rides.  The attractions kept us so occupied that Brenda had some difficulty in roping us in to assist in putting together the membership list into envelopes for mailing out to members.

Thankfully the cooks managed to sort the putrescibles from the good stuff and we were all able to again enjoy a fine feed of the club-supplied steak, sausages, chicken and bread.  This was of course washed down with an ice cold soft drink.  Whilst this kept us busy we also managed to say farewell to Ian and Kim who are returning to Adelaide (see members contribution this edition).  We wish them all the best and to stay in contact.  Following lunch, those of us who take the list of things to be done at home seriously departed while the others had a further look at the exhibits.  Of note were the Air Engine – working on air might be considered handy considering the price of fuel at the moment, and the old televisions –hard to believe that fifty or so years ago you only had a screen about 3 X 4 inches to look at.  It was good to note that these televisions did not have keyboards attached to them.  Thanks to the organizers it was definitely an interesting and entertaining run and I am sure everyone who went along enjoyed themselves.  See you on the next one or if not EXPO.

Eric Levett


Invitation Run to Leo Muller Chrysler Jeep - 4 July 2000

This was something different for Chrysler Owners' Club members, as it was an invitation run to experience the revolutionary new PT Cruiser.  Thanks largely to the members of the Chrysler Owners Club and the organisation of Leo Muller Chrysler Jeep the night proved a huge success and a fun night for all.  Upon arriving I found that club members had filled the car park to capacity.  I however managed somehow to score a park right outside the front door! (lucky me).  After catching up with other members it was time to party.

Leo Muller kindly provided free food, drinks and Elvis.  Yes Elvis!  (The King).  And weren't the ladies impressed so much so I’m not allowed to describe what some of them said.  All I can say to Phil, Peter and Bill is, guys you better watch out when Elvis is around!  Pretending to ignore this Mark tried to out do Elvis but instead forgot his lines and the song.  Eventually after much prompting from other members and Elvis, Mark finally found a few words after a somewhat embarrassing start.

During the wait for American style hot dogs (being the 4th of July) (which was never ending and well worth waiting for) members proceeded to check out the other Chrysler Vehicles outside on display and in the carpark.  A certain 56 Plymouth sure looked nice.  Back inside, with the Prowler unable to make it, we checked out the Viper instead.  And check it out we did.  Each one of us tried to sit behind the wheel of the Viper. It was a tight squeeze but a big car once you get inside.  It is however, funny with the steering wheel on the wrong side.  Paul however, assured me that you soon get used to it!  Ya right! No left! Ah!  Anyhow everyone gave the PT Cruiser the thumbs up and I for one can't wait to see one on the street.  After a great evening it was off home safe with the knowledge that if Chrysler continues to build cars like the ones we own they should be around for some time to come.

Laurence Delbridge

Brian Coughrans - Toowoomba  16th July 2000

It seems even within the high technological society we live in we can still make mistakes - we are only human but more of that later. What a perfect winters day! One could not ask for better.  Paul had hitched a ride with Lex in his VF Wagon so I decide to tag along and I am glad I did.
As Lex wanted Paul to drive the VF we meet the rest of the group on the Warrego Highway, and, after a siren of horns we were off.  Thankfully it didn't take long to join the rest of troops with Viv somehow keeping the convoy at a very steady pace so that no one would get lost.  A job well done!
First stop Lake Apex - at Gatton - a very picturesque spot over looking the lake for morning tea.  Although I didn't see much in the way of morning tea I managed to score a doughnut from the Denmans - thanks going to John and Jay!  With Paul not
used to driving a manual car he elected me to take the helm.  Well all I can say is this - so people say I drive too slow - ha - at least I don't overtake unnecessarily - you have to watch those damm Chargers! (Only joking).
Thankfully everyone made the Range ok without drama and we all cruised through Toowoomba towards Warwick.  Apparently several members including Ian and Lyn Barlow and Rowan and Ken must have read the club run section in the magazine and on the Internet and thought we where going to Highfields Museum just outside Toowoomba?  It just goes to show you just cannot trust these damn computers let alone the operators and it pays to ring the social committee to make sure the food is going in the same direction as the club run! (sorry Guys!).

Finally after some confusion and a slight detour (to find the right gate - hey Viv!) we finally arrived at Brian's place thanks to the efforts of Viv and Bev. Brian certainly has the place well set up.  Numerous sheds all crammed with different pieces of machinery - a truck shed, a well-equipped workshop, pit, all waiting to be explored.  Well explore we did.  This place brought back memories of the Wills wrecking yard in Inverell - machinery and bits and pieces everywhere.  Unlike Inverell however, Brian has it well set up though ith most of the good stuff under cover.  For example -one shed houses a truckload of stationary engines of all descriptions, whilst another housed a number of trucks. As well as those in the shed there where several others
outside awaiting restoration.  I didn't bother to count the number of vehicles as it would certainly take some doing - all I can say is that there are more than enough projects to last a lifetime.  I for one have trouble doing one let alone the number I saw.

It was certainly a truck lovers paradise with a range of the trucks including Rugby, Buddy Stewart, Ford, Commer, Morris, Austin, International, Bedford, Albion, Chevolet, and a very rare (the only one in Australia-I was told) - Associated Damiler (a distant relation perhaps?).  The pride of the fleet however, would have to be a B Model Mack Truck that was fully restored.  This American giant with its bright Red paint and shining chrome certainly looked impressive.  It also seemed that some of our members are certainly well informed about this model truck from the comments it received.  Although I still don't understand how the twin sticks on the gearbox work?????  Amazingly Brian only had one Chrysler - a 1951-52 Plymouth Sedan which was certainly a project car for someone with good intentions.  Any takers!

With a chilly wind blowing the club jackets were also put to good use and with tummies growling Viv, Bev and Jenny and Ted manned the Barbie.  This time the social committee had come quite prepared and there seemed enough food to go around although it disappeared quite quickly. (Another reason to ring people with your intentions).

After lunch several of us took the opportunity to take a ride in a Buddy Stewart Truck around the paddock which certainly goes well even if you don't change out of second gear.  Other members also checked out the other attractions.  One of these was a 1956 Vangard Sedan still in original condition.  Brian apparently had picked it up for a song.  As it was such a nice little car Eric insisted that I make a fool of myself and try and get in the back seat of the Vanguard - a tight squeeze for someone with a long frame.  Getting behind the steering wheel was also an effort, much like the Dodge Viper I climbed into at Leo Mullers.  Fitted with strange buttons and dash layout, one button said pull for airconditioning -strange in fact when it wasn't even fitted!  Apparently this button operates a vent somewhat like what Chryslers used except in a more grand style!

We were also given a demonstration of some of the stationary engines.  One engine was connected to a rock-crushing machine - a very useful machine if you wished to make 'crusher dust'.  All very interesting!  So after a somewhat exhausting day it was off home and some well-deserved rest.  See you on the next one!

Laurence Delbridge


Caboolture Historical Village - 21st May 2000

What a great turnout for this run, some 32 vehicles and about 70 members and guests. I had heard that Mal had brought property up at Kunda Park, which had more garage space, and vacant land than he could use so thought it appropriate to duck up on the Saturday and have a look. Mal certainly has more garage space than he can use but as I was marking out spots for potential club wrecking yard, parts storage etc., Sylvia pointed out that the idea behind Hi Tech Storage is actually to run it as a business and that Mal can consider himself lucky that his Royal is allowed to take up space. Gees! all that space for swap meet paraphernalia etc. and you would have to watch someone else put their goodies in it. Anyhow, as Sylvia didn't seem too keen on my ideas it was decided that we better get into the Royal and head for Caboolture before I finished up in real strife.

With Mal driving (his Royal of course-not mine) we arrived at the Historic Village just behind everyone else who had come from Burpengary (in fact Eric you arrived late and missed out on morning tea and damper and a group photo! –ed.), including Bruce in the Coupe complete with new tow bar. (You have to wonder about Bruce sometimes! He mentioned on the Thursday that he wouldn't be able to take the Coupe as it didn't have a tow bar for the Club trailer; to which I responded with the obvious answer- Make One!). Everyone had dispersed to one of about 40 or more buildings on the site, with some even working to a plan. Young John had a beat plan mapped out of what to see which he tried with little success to get me to follow. (Sorry John but the Boss at work can't even get me to follow his corporate plan, strategic plan, action plan, work plan, plan plan etc. so I have little chance of following yours).

The village is spread out over several acres and has many buildings each with a theme – Garage, Dairy, Railway Station, Homesteads, Council Chambers, Pub (Mick G found this one), Barber Shop, Hospital/Dentist, Jail, Butcher Shop (hey Viv), Bottle shop as well as a large shed full of old tractors, cars, machinery etc. It would not be hard to spend a full day or even two
looking at all the exhibits. The little train (called Bruce) was popular with both the little kids and the big ones also. With the number of vehicles in attendance there were bound to be a few new ones worth a look, and we were not disappointed! Among the ones we had not seen before were Seans’ Charger, Chris’ 58 Belvedere and Julians’ VF coupe. These kept us busy
while Bill, Ray and Mick barbecued and Shirley, Pat and Colleen prepared the cold stuff. There was a little concern from the ladies that there would not be enough to go around with the large number in attendance however we finished up with a little spare (this disappeared fairly quickly Eric! -Ed). In cases such as this it is best the people who are attending remember
to phone Jenny Sando to let her know how much food to bring or else someone will miss out - like Laurie who decided that taking photos of club cars were more important than lining up for a feed!

Anyhow with the eating done, several of us returned to the village attractions to get our moneys worth to the exhibits while others including Mal and myself departed for home.
As the saying goes: The more on the run the more the fun!  See you on the next one!

Eric Levett
EASTER IN ROCKY

Wednesday already!, This trip came around very quickly and the kids were excited about leaving school early for our trip to Rocky in Eric's’ Royal. After meeting up with Eric, Jean, and Bill Burl at Eric's’ house and all the repacking done we were on our way. We had a safe and enjoyable trip to Maryborough where we meet up with Barry and Eleanor Benger at the caravan park. They were already set up for the night and we were off to stay at Warren and Tracey Core’s home in Maryborough.
We had a lovely tea and a nice place to sleep (the kids had fun also). It had rained there all day and it was cold as night set in.

After a good nights sleep we met up with the Benger’s in town at 7.30am, & were on our way to Rockhampton, with Eric's Royal, the Burl's Plymouth Belvedere, and the Benger’s CL Ute and caravan. What a great sight to be seen. With a couple of stops to unwind the kids, and for lunch etc. we arrived in Rocky by about 4pm. Finding the accommodation was not a problem.
Unpacked, Jean and Myself went to do women business: (shopping to feed all the boys). By the way we left the boys in the pool with the kids. With the BBQ tea over and done with, and Friday organized it was off for an early night.

With the dawning of Friday and the overcast weather our trip to Mt. Morgan got underway. We had a good look around, but with it being Good Friday most things were closed, however, what we did see was worth the trip (we even had the locals looking and the cars cruising Mt. Morgan). We had lunch at the restored train station where it was time for more photos. Then the sky’s opened giving the cars a wash for the car show on the Saturday. Back to the park to meet up with Viv and Bev in their Phoenix to get ready for a BBQ with Warren and Tracey’s car club at their motel. After an enjoyable dinner it was time to go to the show party. The guy (who hosted the party) knew when to have a party, (at night,) because he would not have any part-cars left, for what I could see in the dark it was a Chrysler Haven for Eric, Bill and Barry. It was great to catch up with some of the R &S Valiant club members there (and swap stories) on the night also.

With Saturday dawning and looking at the rain falling from the sky (we had hoped for better weather) the show went a head anyway, and a good day was had by us all. There were about 45 cars on display with Bev and Viv picking up a Trophy. It was time to pack up and get ready for the dinner with the Cores and Co. The kids and I left early as they had a big day but the others went for a cruse around Rocky and at 11.00pm I heard them going past the caravan park with about 15 cars.

Easter Sunday: We had an early start (9.00am) to leave to go to Emu Point via Yeppoon for morning tea. We had a great morning tea hosted by the All Classic Motor Club Central Queensland inc, consisting of hot cross buns, scones, tea and coffee and a look at the cars of the other clubs there on the day. With lunch soon coming we visited the singing ship which was just
around the corner and up the hill. With tea approaching we all decided to head for the park for another clean up and off for tea at Bev’s brothers home for another BBQ tea. Easter Monday: 7.30am and it was time to leave. With the great run home until the north coast (with heavy traffic) we had a great weekend.
So if you might like to go next year start saving, as it is only 10 months away.

Tina Denman.
Easter in the Country 2000 (Roma QLD)
What a fantastic rally! Resisting the temptation to go to Rockhampton with the rest of our club members I decided to attend the Easter in the Country Rally in Roma a second time around. After insuring Bruce that I would be able to make the trip (due to work commitments) we (Bruce, Jimmy, Frank and Steward) met up at the truck stop along the highway at Dinmore at 7.40 am it was a fairly uneventful run to Toowoomba. The run to Dalby however, was a little more worrying especially for me. Although I had thoroughly checked over the Val I and changed the oil, fuel filter etc., I was aware of a mysterious miss the engine had developed during the week. Thinking I may have cured it I soon learnt how to change points in a slant six (something I have never done before) after just managing to pull into the Shell Roadhouse at Dalby! Where are those magnetic screwdrivers when you need them! Fortunately Bruce got the Val going again and we settled down for something to eat.
After some wishful thinking that we were out of trouble Bruce had also developed a mysterious miss and we had to pull over on the side of the road between Oakey and Chinchilla Luckily it was only a minor drama and we were on our way. After finally arriving in Roma about 3.45 we checked into the School of Arts Hotel. After a refreshing ale we then proceeded to met up with the other rally entrants at Junior Cricket Club Grounds for registration and a bite to eat with a BBQ/salad and desert provided by the Roma Historical Club.
Saturday saw us up and early and assembled for the grand parade through the main street of Roma. This event proves very popular and this year was no exception. It is certainly a buzz to drive in a parade such as this with so many people watching. We then proceed to watch the rest of parade and the very entertaining foot races, goat races, cement bag races, wheelie bin races etc. before lunch. After lunch we proceeded to look at the Mud Derby – a great way of getting mud just about everywhere! Following this we joined the rest of the rally group for some Gymkhana events. Although Bruce managed to throw the piston a respectably distance he was beaten unfortunately by only a couple of metres. Saturday evening provided us with a range of options on things to do – this included going to the Country and Western Music Festival featuring the Walmsley Brothers, the speedway or staying at the Queens Arms and partying on with other patrons. I chose the latter and I will not divulge what happened only to say that I certainly slept well that night! Bruce and Frank chose to see the music festival and reported it was very good – my only regret was I didn't take their advice and spend the $6 entry fee.
Next morning was our observation rally and despite our best intentions to go to the markets we joined the rest of the rally crew at the marshalling area for the drive to Mitchell. Questionnaires were handed out during the run to Mitchell, our brains were taxed to the limit with questions such as words starting with car – if only I had brought a dictionary!  The observation rally also provided some entertainment in the fact that instead of a driving observation rally as per last time it was a walking one in which we visited most of Mitchell's attractions on foot –these included the Kenniff Courthouse, rotary park, the Great Artesian Spa and a dead horse? A great way to see the town.
The Roma Historical Motor Club puts on a great Sunday dinner (in fact they work very hard to make the weekend fun) and this is where the proceedings came to close. There are always some great prizes to win during the weekend proceedings. Unfortunately however, due to the high number of Austin 7s in attendance their club took out the best attendance trophy instead of the Chrysler Owners Club of Qld – something, which needs to be attended to in two years time. So if you want to see Roma and attend ‘Easter in the Country’ in 2002 and have a fantastic fun weekend start saving those dollars!
P.S. If anyone is interested in making a quick $3000 next year, enter a quick goat into the goat races – $3000 is the first prize.
Laurence Delbridge

Carlton Brewhouse – Yatala – 9 April 2000
This was our second run to the brewhouse and many had been looking forward to this run as it provides an interesting and intellectual insight into the complexities of a large process oriented manufacturing concern – not to mention free beer. The opportunity to further advance my education, and the necessity to drive home had meant that I had left the free beer at the engagement party the night before alone, but was nevertheless, feeling quite average after a late night. (gee Eric I never thought you were the marrying kind! –ed). While debating whether or not to ring Bruce, I had a call from Ian who didn't have to do too much arm twisting to convince me to go in the Fury.
Arriving at Yatala we were given our entry passes and more importantly, our free beer tickets. Following this was an informative film in the theatrette, and a tour through the brewery where, someone who shall remain nameless had to swallow the sad truth that the love of his life, the chicky babe who used to drive the little train, no longer drove the train. Nevertheless the rest of the group enjoyed the very informative talk by a bewery spokesperson and learnt that if we drank all the beer in the holding vats at one time we would have to have the following attributes: 1). Have to live to a ripe old age. 2). Have a big beer gut 3). Have one hell of a hang over! (This is my excuse for not remembering all the facts and figures). It was also interesting to know that the yeast used in the beer making process is used something like nine times over and then sold off to make vegemite! No wonder they are happy!
While the second group went on the little train, we had an enjoyable time looking through the displays of brewing memorabilia. The computer literate of us played with the computer and produced souvenir beer appreciation certificates while others of us appreciated the beer. Perhaps one or two of us who were not driving may have appreciated the beer a little too much for what was still a relatively early hour on a Sunday. I attempted to no avail, to do some name dropping of senior CUB management to keep the bar open but to Jimmy’s demise they closed it down before he or anyone else got in over their heads with all the free tickets that had mysteriously came his way.
We then decided to depart for Norwell and the Mercedes - Benz Performance Driving Centre. Phil and Brenda had done a great job on the site survey and had negotiated the use of their covered barbeque area. It’s is also quite an interesting place as it has a special driver training track as well as a museum. Apparently Jimmy has already had a test run on the track although I was unsure whether or not he was talking about the kiddies bicycle training area or the skidpan. With everyone quite hungry from all the Beer tasting Ray had the barbeque underway in no time. Meanwhile the rest of us spent more time looking at some vehicles we had not seen before, including Geoffs’ 1948 Dodge Utility and Bruce’s somewhat modified 1940 Dodge (of which I am still waiting for a photo for the front cover of the magazine! –ed). Jimmy as usual managed to make a particular pain of himself by dropping palm seeds down the shirt of everyone who came near him. However a dose of the wet washing up rag soon settled him down.
After a fine feed including chicken, snags and some great hamburgers, allegedly lovingly made by Swanny, we took a look at the Museum. This is contained in three buildings and has examples of sports and racing machinery from the 1920’s through to current models as well as old photographs and sketches of Mercedes concept vehicles. Bruce in particular was somewhat disappointed that the Museum didn't contain any Chrysler’s after commenting how valuable 34 Frauds are. Some of the more notable exhibits (besides the NZ speaking Dutch receptionist – hey Ted!) included a Gullwing Mercedes and a replica of the first car build by Karl Benz. The Gullwing was notable in that it runs a slant six although it slants the opposite way to a real slant six – pity really because the fuel injection system would come close to fitting on a real slant six except that it was the wrong way around. Mind you though, it would be ideal for impressing the love of you life who used to drive a certain little train (bit of a squeeze for Laurie though!). With this in mind after a very enjoyable day it was good to relax in the back seat of the Fury for the trip home knowing the Royal was safely tucked away at in the garage at home.
Eric Levett
SEE YOU ALL AT CABOOLTURE ON THE 21st MAY

Club Saturday Night Run - Hardys Cafe, Ipswich
As Bruce had given me the big “A” last run, I decided to get square and go up to Paul’s before this run and let Bruce find his own way.  Actually, Paul had a good idea about fixing the brake lights on my Royal which is a job Bill had been on my back about for a while.  Having found out what a tiger Bill is for fresh meat and realising he and Jean were coming to Rockhampton at Easter I decided that it might be an idea to fix the brake lights before he started chewing my ear about them.
Anyhow, with the job done, Paul and I left for Gailes to meet the rest of the crew.  “Reckon there is enough free play in the brake pedal” says Paul.  “Yep too easy - she’ll be right” says I.  Well, it would appear that the brake light switch Mark gave me (and for which I promised to do something nice for him one day) was dodgy because it caused the brakes to get progressively harder until the Royal would go nowhere.  after much adjustment on the FORD brake light switch and a minor adjustment on the brake pedal rod (which was probably unnecessary), Laurie, Paul and I were on our way to join the crew at Hardys.
Swanny had arranged for Hardys to open up specially for us and we had a whale of a time eating properly cooked food.  After a couple of hours eating the great food (no minced horse!), a spur of the moment decision was made to go for a cruise through Ipswich and for those of us not interested in getting up early the next day an invitation to go around to Jim and Pat’s afterwards was available.  Well, I got talking to Sandy and left with a commodore between me and Laurie.  The Commodore was a bit slow and as a result Laurie’s tail lights disappeared in the distance and I had a pleasant drive somewhere until eventually finding Ipswich.  Here, I spot Jim’s drifter but back the wrong (minced?) horse and join Mark, Kerry, Jim, Hayley, Mick and Ruth for the drive to Jim’s and Pat’s.  The 300 and VC go straight ahead but Mick and Ruth’s CM (behind me turns off to the left).  “That’s right the 300 and VC are going home” I think.  A quick U turn through the fire station and off after the CM was pointless which resulted in another pleasant drive somewhere (Whites Hill I am told - lovely spot - must go there for a holiday sometime).
After following the railway line, things became familiar and I arrived at Jim and Pat’s.  Jim has got the wrong idea as far as sheds are concerned - here is the crew eating his tucker and drinking his beers at the big table in the middle of his shed.  Now, at my place you put the boat in the middle of the shed, fill the sides up with rubbish and keep the beer locked up in the house so your mates can't get it.  After a couple of hours we were on our way home again, some of us with free samples of Jim’s home brewed stout - again Jim has got the wrong idea - you don’t give your mates free takeaway supplies.
With the dodgy brake light switch behaving itself, I followed Bruce home where he showed me the new whitewall tyres on the 40 Dodge Coupe - I felt very honoured about this, and as I figured that he was probably trying to get into the good books with me for giving me the big “A” for Colleges Crossing, even said nice things about them finally arriving home about 1:00 am.  Just before I finish off, another get square with Laurie - I am not going to obey your convoy rally rules whether they are in a pipeline or not - you see more my way and get full value for your SIV registration payment.
See you next run.
Eric Levett

Club Run Colleges Crossing - 13 February 1999
I have found it to be good practice, that if rain is possible on a Club run, to leave the Royal at home and go with Bruce - saves me washing the Royal afterwards.  This run, Bruce had given me the big “A” in favour of Swanny and Colleen.  This left me to scout through the membership list for a new mate.  Half way down page 1 I found Batho - that’ll do - Glen had been on my back for a while to drop down for a beer, the advantage here being that if we stayed up too late, Tom could always drive us.  Sunday morning saw us up early for a BIG breakfast (no kidding) and off to Gailes in a downpour that certainly justified leaving the Royal at home.
After socialising for a while at Gailes it was a fairly short run to Colleges Crossing where Jim and Dennis had already erected the club tent and set up the barbeques.  Jim and Dennis had arranged an article on the run in the local paper, and with the display of our vehicles and the numerous interested visitors we were kept quite busy.  Craig provided lessons on how to remove the dashboard from a Charger while tracing an electrical fault, while Ashley arrived in his latest acquisition - 1960 Phoenix for us to view.
Bill, Bruce and Swanny busied themselves with the barbecue.  I though Mick was a tiger for fresh meat but at least he puts it on the barbecue for a brief while first.  Bill on the other hand eats it straight from the esky while explaining that ground horse meat marinated in Worstershire Sauce is good eating and saves cooking time.  During these proceedings someone adorned the ram mascot on Bruce’s Dodge with a pair of little bitty titties - this act had Mark’s name written all over it but he pleaded not guilty.  The rain had lessened to the occasional light shower so everyone was able to enjoy a pleasant day.  Fortunately there was sufficient rain however to form sufficient of a puddle on the club tarp so that if you pushed it in the middle the water would run down onto Mark and make him use bad language - this provided quite some entertainment until it became too risky.
Several of us spent time in the bird watching pavilion on the river bank including Laurie who almost broke his neck to get over there only to find we were watching the wrong type of bird. (See I told you I would get square Laurie).  After several pleasant hours it was time to be off home where the increasing amount of rain again justified my decision not to take the Royal.
See you next run.
Eric Levett
P.S.  I would never interrupt Laurie talking to a publican, and Hayley assures me that if Jimmy has been anywhere near the Queensport Hotel it must have been by accident and before they were married because he certainly is not permitted nor has any desire to do that sort of thing now.
Bayside Restorers Club Inc - Australia Day Invitation Rally
26 of January 2000
For the majority of us it was a fairly early start considering it was a public holiday. Nevertheless X number of members made the departure point at the club rooms at Carindale. At least they knew their way there. It seems that every time we have a cruise somewhere someone gets lost or takes a wrong turn. Luckily I have some convoy rally rules in the pipeline and hopefully by the next run will bring some consistency to our runs (You have be warned!). After some confusion and some initial pulling of the hair, we joined ranks with other club members who were already at Ormiston State School. As a gesture of Australia Day the Bayside Restorers Club handed out an Australian Flag along with the rally details.

Members then proceeded to check out the other cars that were on display. These ranged from the early 1920s up and there was a wide cross section. From Baby Austin 7s to Morris Minors to big Studebakers, Hudsons, Buicks and the like. These cars bringing back memories for several members with comments such as “my Dad owned one of these”. Graham in particular spotted a 37 Buick and was convinced that it was his fathers. I even spotted a nicely restored 55 Dodge Kingsway Crusader - great cars! After enjoying a free breakfast, we departed on a local rally around the streets of Wellington Point, Birkdale and Carindale before reaching a new waterfront park overlooking the Brisbane River at Cannon Hill for morning tea - a very pleasant spot. This gave us time to swap yarns and check out the cargo ships on the river.

As a fair number of people had gathered at the new park it was decided between members that we should go and do our own thing for lunch at a suitable location. This however, proved fruitless, only serving to infuriate members like Judy who reckons that some people should get their glasses readjusted when parking whilst, Eric needs to tone down his voice when addressing the rest of the group - especially when someone is on the mobile phone to an important client - namely the pub. Incidentally this was where we ended up - Jimmy’s favourite watering hole - the Queens Port Hotel at Hemmant. Unfortunately, due to it being a public holiday we were unable to secure a counter lunch and had to suffice with steak burgers instead. This aside I am assured that everyone enjoyed a cold refreshment and good company for the remainder of the afternoon. I am sure that everyone also learnt a rule from Murphy’s Law - if there is a chance that something will go wrong, it probably will!

See you at POMONA on the 19th March.

Laurence Delbridge

Christmas Party 1999
 With 100+ members and over 40 Club vehicles in attendance, the 28th of November shaped up into a pretty good day.  Several of us arrived at the Club Rooms early and attempted futile tasks such as stringing up the Club banner, which just did not seem to want to stay put.  We were more successful at tasks such as ensuring the drinks were cold.

Ian, the DJ from Expo arrived fairly early, and with his quick wit and great selection of music, managed to keep everyone entertained and suitably embarrassed during the day.  His ability to remember people’s names is incredible and was used to good effect.  Jenny organised a drawing competition for the children.  When I was asked to be a judge, I prudently disappeared.   Jimmy organised a treasure hunt, which kept the little ones amused.  The Christmas hamper donations were such that we were able to have one large and two smaller hampers.   No doubt they were appreciated by the winners.  Thank you to all those who supported the Christmas hamper cause!

Craig again did a fine job of Santa with members receiving some surprise packages from the Kris Kringle including a water pistol or two, with the obvious consequences.  Mick and Ruth collected the trophy for Best Attendance overall.  Neil and Marge again collected (and demanded) the obligatory kiss from the President for their win in the Best Attendance Club Run category.  Don Goodwin took home the first prize in the Club raffle (etched mirror clock), Don and Wanda Evans the second prize and Anthony Howarth collected third prize.

As usual, the Social Committee worked tirelessly during the day and did a fine job with all members eating well.  A fine selection of nibblies and desserts were provided this way on the A-M and N-Z lists.  With a fine array of vehicles to view and plenty of members, we all settled into the relaxation quite well. I was smart and arranged a lift with Viv and Bev and managed to become fairly relaxed myself.

Three o’clock or thereabouts, meant it was time for the President to give an impromptu speech. This year I must have cut it too short, as I had to go back three times to finish it off. It appears that is where the Social Committee got rather cute.  When they are ready to leave, they bring the President on and keep bringing him on until everyone gets the message. It seems to work well!  I shall have to think this ploy through a bit better next time. After a great day and a “well rehearsed and enlightening speech” from the President, the proceedings began to wind down.

Thanks to all those who assisted with the Christmas party.

See you at the next run on Australia Day 26th January.

Eric Levett

Bribie Island 14th November
 Perfect weather, perfect location and great company.  In my opinion, this turned out to be the best run of the year and I am sure that most who attended would have to agree.  After departing Ipswich around 7.45am, Paul and I met other fellow Club members at the BP Burpengary at 9.00am for the 9.30 departure.  However, by 9.30am, due to the great weather, the traffic on the highway was building and it was going to be hard to get 30+ vehicles out in a single convoy.  Luckily for us, a very obliging Queensland motorcycle policeman saved the day.  As soon as big Jim Hogan had rounded up the troops, the motorcycle policeman literally stopped traffic by blocking one lane to let us merge on to the highway as a group.  Thank you very much!  Chrysler rules OK!

 It was a pleasant half-hour drive before we arrived at Bribie where we had plenty of space and shade to park our vehicles behind the Air/Sea Rescue Station.  Several others joined us there, which made a total of 39 vehicles all up and about 100 or so members, guests and new members.  These included Tony in an AP5 and Daniel in a Centura.  What a turn out!  With so many helping hands, it didn't take long to erect the Club shade tarp, Club banner and set up the Club barbie.  As we were set up just across a lane way to the Bribie passage, Terry and Joel had brought along a little runabout for a bit of light entertainment.  And entertain us they did.  Before lunch, Eric decided he would do a bit of water skiing (one of Eric’s many hidden talents) behind Terry’s boat.  Certainly a sight to see.  (Eric reckons his wet suit shrunk over winter!).  Hopefully the photos will come out.  At the same time Paul R and Cliff tried their luck doing a spot of fishing off the beach.  Not sure how they went, but I think Eric may have frightened away all the fish!

 Upon our return, it appeared that there was a slight problem with the food for lunch.  Owing to the increase in people attending, at one stage it seemed that some members would have to go hungry.  The problem was that some of us did not ring Jenny to inform her of our attendance!  Doh!  You have been warned!  However, the problem was soon fixed, even though we had to dig deep to pay for drinks to make up the short fall.  Before long the boys were cooking the snags, steak and chicken whilst the girls buttered the bread and rolls, and lunch was served.  After a satisfying lunch, a great deal of time was spent swapping yarns with each other.

 As a promotional exercise, the Francis family had organised with their local newspaper to run a story about the Club run.  Much time was spent by members talking to the general public who had decided to come and have a look at some very fine and classy Chryslers.  We even managed to get a couple more prospective members.  At the same time, I was able to take a few photos of members doing some unusual things – like Club member Julian M trying out the boot size of a VG.  A kind of Clayton’s chair I suppose – a chair when you haven’t got a chair!  And what’s this – Judy and Mr Viagra together – hmmm!  Say no more!  Look for these in the new Club photo album.  By mid afternoon most of us decided to head for home.  It seems this is becoming the norm.  It has been suggested that maybe we should have some post lunch activities!  So if you have any ideas please pass these on to Peter Swanston so we can incorporate them into the runs he has organised next year.  Maybe we should take a page out of the activities organised by the Roma Historical Club during Easter and have a piston throwing competition.

All in all, a fantastic day.  I was going to try my hand at water skiing.  However, I decided I had better go and pick up a 2.92 ratio diff for my Valiant, that Graeme Harris had for me, so I can compete with Graham K in the fuel economy stakes next year!  Paul was also lucky with the Royal running like a sewing machine all day.  It seems he has finally ironed out most of the problems he encountered on the Club run to the Beaudesert swap.

 Congratulations and a big thank you to the Francis Family of Bribie Island for organising both a great location and having the outing publicised in their local newspaper.

Laurence Delbridge


Beaudesert Swap 12th September
 I remember once before writing in a Club run report how history sometimes repeats itself. Well, now I’m convinced it does!
It seems it all started many years ago when the Denman boys hit a kangaroo on the way to the Beaudesert Swap - but that was in a FXXX not a Chrysler!

 The run last Sunday started innocently enough. After meeting Paul, Michael, Tina, John, Jay and Grandfather Jack in the Chrysler Royal at Goodna as arranged, it was off to the Swap. Unfortunately for Paul, the Beaudesert Swap curse struck again with his Chrysler Royal spitting the dummy just before Macleans Bridge, by profusely blowing great clouds of blue smoke
(sad but true). After much consideration, we continued and limped into Beaudesert to park our cars in the display area with other members who had arrived earlier. We began frantically sorting through the Swap looking for the bargains other Club members had kindly left for us to buy. Speaking of which, Rowan and Ken beat me to a dual carburetor aluminum manifold setup to suit a slant six! Bugger! Bruce was also lucky picking up a couple of Dodge hubcaps to replace the missing one on the 1940 Dodge ute after a recent trip to the Cape. At least I know who to call if I want spares for the Dodge or the Valiant.

After spending several hours of sifting through a lot of GM and FXXX rubbish and other junk, we assembled with other members and guests at Jubilee Park. Quite a nice spot actually - no need to erect the Club tarp, shade for our vehicles, an electric barbecue and great people to socialise with, combined with a great view across the park - what else do you want!!  It is always heartening to see a good roll up on a Club run, especially those who have recently joined us, and to give Neil some competition in the running for the best attendance trophy at the end of the year.

With the BBQs’ getting hot, Jenny and Kerry were soon issuing out the orders and had the boys cooking the Club supplied steak, snags, chicken and onions.  Jim had his famous pea soup on hand as well.  Even then, it still wasn’t enough. There must have been some hungry members as all the food and Club supplied soft drinks soon disappeared.  This only shows how important it is to indicate your attendance at Club runs just in case the social committee runs out of food!  Mark as usual was doing his best to try and convince us that a horse on a T-shirt is better than the Club or Chrysler Expo shirt.  Also, Swanny was convinced the Humber could out distance a certain AP6 on an economy run.  Even after giving the job of towing the Club BBQ trailer to Bruce, I don’t think so!
With 27 vehicles (especially all those AP6’s) parked near the main road we certainly made a notable impression. This was a good sign for Chrysler Expo. One prospective member passing by in a VF Valiant was so impressed, he even asked if he could join up straight away. He must have known these ‘Chrysler Owners’ are on a good wicket.  Eric did his job and passed details on to the Secretary.
About 3 p.m. and after a very relaxing day (at least for some of us), it was time to pack and head home. As for the Royal?  Don and Wanda in the Phoenix and Michael and I in my AP6, followed Paul home through the back roads to Booval.  The Greenbank Army Road is a dusty dirt road full of potholes. This, with oil smoke, combined to make a screen of considerable proportions.   James Bond eat your heart out!  At least it wasn’t RAINING!!

P.S. New Members: Remember to introduce yourself so you too can get mentioned in the Club run report. Even if you don’t have a Chrysler on the road, join us anyway. Don’t be shy! Come and have fun. We do!

P.P.S. Best attendance trophy (awarded at the end of the year): All members who attend Club outings throughout the year, with their Chrysler and wear the Club T-shirt, are in the running to win (just make sure to hassle the Chief Steward!).

SEE YOU AT EXPO!

Laurence Delbridge(018)

The Chrysler Royal Blew a piston but it did not wreck the motor and will be repaired and going for EXPO 99

JENNY’S BEAUDESERT SPECIAL SALAD
(For the people who were at the Beaudesert Swap BBQ Lunch)

1 Won Bok Cabbage (or Sugar Loaf) sliced Dressing
4-6 Shallots sliced ½ cup oil
Chopped almonds (about 1 cup) ¼ cup soy sauce
Changs fried noodles (cooked) 4 tabsp brown sugar
             Mix dressing and add to salad ingredients with noodles just before serving.
E-N-J-O-Y

Petrie Markets 22nd August

 It seems to be that most Club run reports these days begin with a complaint about the weather.  This one appeared as though it would be no different. After causing me to be late for the appointed departure from Wylie Park, the rain stopped. Steve and Julie in the AP6 Regal, and I found the park deserted, so we headed off for the Markets, only problem being that we didn't know where they were!
New member Julian Miskin was along in his Charger.  Actually, I had seen him previously going to the market when he pulled over and started following us. He needed to follow someone who knew where they were going – he’ll learn!  Nevertheless, after a bit of a drive around, including a U-turn just short of the markets, we found the place.
 The markets proved very interesting with various theme displays including fire engines and equipment, steam engines, pottery, blacksmith, woodworking and aluminum casting as well as general market type stalls.
 The rain held off and we were able to enjoy a pleasant few hours feasting on rump steak (which Jenny or Shirley has picked up at a bargain price) snags and chicken. The vehicles attracted quite a lot of attention from passers by, and we were joined for a while by some prospective members with ’69 and ’70 Dodge Phoenix’s.
 After a fine feed, great conversation and an inspection of the petty cash tin, to ensure the new Treasurer is on the ball, (it still has the two dollars and piece of chewing gum in it!) it was time to depart.
 See you on the next run, or if not, at EXPO.
REMEMBER TO GET THOSE EXPO ENTRIES IN.  It will save you $5.00 and make the job easier for the staff on the entry gate on the day.

Eric Levett


Historic Racing, Qld Raceway 18th July

 7.45am saw a reasonable crew assembled at Gailes Roadhouse.  We took the opportunity to view Kerry and Shirley’s latest acquisition – a blue 1963 Dodge Phoenix, and to meet Austin MacRae, our member from Gilgandra.  Also relatively new on the scene was Garth Nolan in his yellow Centura.  My initial reaction was Gees! someone has docked the man’s arm. I tell you that sort of pain doesn’t bear thinking about that early in the morning! As it turned out, it was still attached but under the shirt, courtesy of indulging in pursuits which are supposed to be good for your health.  Better to stick to 4 wheels than two.  Accordingly, Julie was driving.  Ted and Jenny arrived to greetings of “Good Afternoon” (belated?) and we were away.
 I might note that my pre run briefings are just that, brief but quite effective.  Here’s your entry pass and map, shut up and follow the ute. Everyone believed that Craig in the Charger knew where he was going and we followed everyone else.  We picked up Jim and Pat along the way.  Fortunately, the traffic was light this weekend.  We assembled in the parking area and organized a good vantage point to view the racing.  This track is very good, and it is possible to see almost  the whole track which made for an enjoyable day watching the racing.
 Bob and Rhonda found us on the hill.  Rhonda, unfortunately, had a similar problem to Garth but was not hiding it.  A fine BBQ was arranged prior to the demonstration laps around the track.  Several of us took the opportunity between lunch and the demonstration laps to have a good look through the pits.  There was an extremely wide range of exotic and unusual machinery to view – Alvis, Bolwell, Cooper, Ford, Monza, Lotus, Bristol, MG, Jaguar and so on in the pits, as well as the two hundred or so vehicles in the VIP area.
 It is interesting to compare the new S type Jaguar with the new Falcon.  (I must remember to ask Mark if Ford is really in such dire straits that they have to use Jaguar doors!)  The various races were quite entertaining.  You can see the exotic machinery for most of the full circuit.  This is particularly impressive when exotica such as HQ Holdens and VJ Chargers are outpacing the more mundane machinery carrying “plastic horses” in the grilles.  (OK Mark, the HQ did go to sleep while we were poking you in the ribs and yelling “HURR” and the Chargers orange paint must have been slower than the white on the Mustang, but it was fun while it lasted.)
 Five o’clock saw us decide to head for home after a beat day, just in front of the crowd.

Eric Levett

Harrisville – 16th May 1999
The road works in front of the Gailes Roadhouse saw our departure delayed for ¾ of an hour.  Some members spent quite some time idling in view of the roadhouse, while the lucky ones (me) had Bruce’s local knowledge to rely on for a long cut to the roadhouse through the industrial estate.  Twenty or so vehicles left Gailes for the run down through Purga and Peak Crossing to Harrisville.  It was interesting to note that now Laurie has his own vehicle to drive (and has the panelbeater working on his Dodge), that he has wiped the grey Royal like an oily rag.  He now prefers instead, to travel down in something a bit more upmarket – to wit Kerry’s Chrysler 300 Convertible.
 A pleasant half-hour or so saw us at Harrisville where we assembled the tent and the new barbeque.  Several others joined us there which made for a total of 26 vehicles and about 60 members and guests including relative new members Iain and Kim Carlin, Bob Pritchard, Ray and Joan Lindsay and Peter and Judy Boyd.  Jimmy and Hayley, who have been along many times as guests, have finally sold their Ford and bought a Valiant VC V8. Having paid up their money, they can finally get a mention as new members.  I wonder if it has occurred to Mark yet that they SOLD THE FORD TO BUY A VALIANT!
 Mick did a sterling job of supervising the “breaking in” of the new barbeque plate, no doubt to ensure the quality of the presidential steak later on.  In fact, he need not have gone to so much trouble, as it is again Pea & Ham soup season.  As the days get shorter, Jim brings along a big bucket of great pea and ham soup.  For the next few months, I don’t really care how raw Mick wants to serve up the presidential steak!
With the large contingent, we did a good job of taking over the Harrisville museum.  It was probably a good thing they had three separate buildings.  Certain of our members elected to sit in the shade of the Club tent rather than look at the museum.  Some of the reasons included that they did not need to look at old things on the basis they were married to one.  In the interest of harmony, I won’t mention who those members were.
Incidentally, Ken did mention that he used to ride a horse to the Harrisville School adjacent to where we were parked.  One of the members was heard to remark that he didn't realize they had horses that long ago!  It was interesting to note that some of the school texts various teachers used to hit me with, now qualify as museum pieces.  This is probably because my copybook writing was not as neat as some of that on display.  (A fact to which Judy can probably attest from having to decipher the monthly President's Message and Club Run report).  Although not as big as that at Inverell, the museum certainly had some goodies inside and made for an interesting couple of hours.
Upon our return, Mark, Bruce, Swanny and Mick had the barbeque well underway, and Jim the soup.  A leisurely couple of hours were then spent devouring the food, viewing Dennis’ new paint job, the VC JIMMY & HAYLEY SOLD THEIR FORD TO BUY.  (On second thoughts I might be wrong here Mark – aren’t they in fact WRECKING THE FORD i.e. PULLING IT APART INTO LITTLE PIECES?)
At about 3pm after a relaxing day, it was time to pack up and head for home.  Several of us stopped for a quick coffee at Goodna on the way back, where it was noticed that Graham’s AP6 had a FORD logo very prominently attached to its rear bumper bar.  This left Bruce and myself (Laurie making the return trip with Graham and Judy) to contemplate:
(a) Did the Ford logo come off Mark’s shirt, or
(b) Was it redundant Ford paraphernalia that Jimmy and Hayley wanted to ensure was properly destroyed.
Incidentally, what Laurie doesn’t realize is that had it not been for Jack’s kiddy seat taking up a fair bit of room, we would probably have gone with Tom and Glen in the Regal.  Actually, the phrase “as redundant as raw steak in the pea soup season” just occurred to me.
See you on the RACQ “Motoring of Yesteryear”.

Eric Levett

SPECIAL  THANKS
As Editor of the "Chrysler News" I wish to express my thanks to the ladies of the Social Committee who put in time and effort to purchase the food and drinks for our monthly Club runs.  Special mention should go to Jenny Sando, Kerry Breeds, Shirley Gannon and to the other ladies who assist on the day. Thank you also to our male members of the Club who slave over a hot BBQ (poor little dears), and then clean up the BBQ ready for the next run. Well done everyone!!

Judy Kluver


Optional Club Run – Inverell for Easter 1999
 What a great rally!  This was an optional run over Easter, and we expected that many would have other obligations.  However, there was a good roll up of eight ½ vehicles. Rick and Vicki were already there in a FXXX!  We had some twenty passengers to meet up with our friends from the Chrysler Restorers Club from NSW and the Tweed Valley Restorers Club.  More than 700 miles were travelled over the Easter weekend and I am pleased to report there was very little mechanical trouble.
 Graham did seem to spend an inordinate amount of time looking under Ted’s bonnet allegedly trying to sort out why the AP6 wagon was losing power on the hills.  We believe that, in fact, he was marveling at the die-cast thing between the air cleaner and motor.  It’s called a carby Graham!  You should get one.  No prizes for guessing who averaged 28.5 MPG in a blue AP6 sedan for the whole trip!
 Leaving Gailes, we travelled under cloud (which persisted for most of the weekend but resulted in very little rain) to Stanthorpe for smoko and then on to Glen Innes.  Here we met up with Graham and Laurie again.  They had gone on ahead to inspect an AP6 for sale. (Laurie has since purchased the vehicle.)
 At Inverell, Brad Lewis and his mother Gloria had arranged a fine afternoon tea.  We adjourned to the cover of an old servo after rain prevented our open meeting in the park.  Another 20 vehicles with our enthusiasts from south of the border arrived, and time was spent meeting new friends, renewing old acquaintances, enjoying Gloria’s tucker and looking over an array of fine vehicles from the 1920’s to 1960’s.
 Dinner at the Bowls Club was a lively affair and for some of us, a relatively late night.  Saturday saw us scouring John Wills wrecking yard and then to Copeton Dam for lunch.  (Who was the person that forgot to pack the gas line for the barbecue?)  Then on to the honey farm (unfortunately, no honeys, only the sticky stuff bees make) for afternoon tea.  After a rest and a few cleansing ales, we met for dinner at the RSM Club.  Friendships were strengthened, waist lines increased – gees, you certainly eat on these overnight runs - and a general good time had, including some wins on the pokies.
 Sunday morning saw us at the historical Pioneer Village, which for a town of 10,000 people, was amazing.  The many buildings included an old homestead, Paddy’s Pub, war and transport museums, local government museum etc.  Morning tea was provided by the Museum Committee and then on to the Motor Museum with over 120 cars and 30 motorcycles.  Here we had a BBQ lunch and then afternoon tea provided by the Museum.
 At this stage, I left to check on a couple of Chrysler Royals (I am not saying where).  We enjoyed our  final night’s dinner at the hotel where some of us were staying.  Unfortunately, the weekend had now come to an end and the members of the respective clubs had to endure speeches from myself and various committee members. We all enjoyed the weekend, which resulted in a resolution to make such a meeting as this a bi-annual event if possible.  Thanks must go to Swanny, who organized the event, and all those who helped with the cooking, etc. as well as our southern Chrysler enthusiasts who travelled a considerable distance to attend.  They were faced with the prospect of returning to places such as Sydney on the last day of school holidays.  We were fortunate, as the traffic back to Brisbane was relatively light and moved well.

Fort Lytton 18th April

 The magnificent attendance of 28 vehicles and well over 70 members and guests made this a great run.  Saturday’s rain turned into beautiful sunshine when we assembled at the Club Rooms at 9am.  Andy had his Dodge truck out on its first Club outing and Ian with the brown VF, Tony with the red VC and Tony with the white VE.  With some visitors from the early Ford V8 Club, it gave us a few new vehicles to look at.  An hour was spent enjoying morning tea before a drive through the eastern suburbs and on to Fort Lytton.  We formed into groups for the guided tour.  The guides were very informative and entertaining, many having first hand knowledge of some of the events forming the history of Fort Lytton.  One of the guides, being well into his 80s was able to point out a photo of himself at the Fort back in 1932. I suspect some of us have learnt more about history in the last two weeks than we ever learnt at school!
 The tarp had been set up and the gas hose for the barbecue was also in attendance on this run so we had no difficulty in getting the snags, chicken, steak and onions underway.  Mick has learnt how to burn steak and onions to suit the presidential palate – nice and black and properly killed!
 A leisurely hour or so was spent in a prime location with a view over the Fort to the Brisbane River. Along with this and good company, conversation and food, I cannot think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
 It was good to see such a magnificent turnout for this run and hope to see you on the 16th May to Harrisville.

Eric Levett


Pomona/Lake MacDonald – 14th March
 This one was more like it – no rain!  In conjunction with the Early Ford V8 Club and the American Ford V8 Club, we had approximately 50 vehicles in the convoy to Pomona.  The Club trailer also had its first run.  I left Burpengary early in order to collect Leon from Moffat Beach and rejoined the convoy at Forest Glen. Unfortunately Leon was not well, but supplied us with several kilos of grapes, which we enjoyed at our lunch spot, Lake MacDonald – thanks, Leon.  (Jenny did a fine job of feeding them to me!)
 I was impressed at both the length of the convoy and the variety of fine cars.  Morning tea was provided at the Majestic Theatre and we enjoyed half an hour of socialising prior to an entertaining viewing of the two movies shown.
 The first was a short film about the trials and tribulations of the new car buyer in 1926. A good choice too - a 1926 Chrysler Royal!  The second was called “On Our Selection” with Dad and Dave.  This was shown to the accompaniment of a pipe organ, pieces of which have been sourced from around the world.  The Majestic is the oldest continually operating picture theatre in Australia.
 After an amusing hour or so of movies, we departed for Lake MacDonald and found an extremely pleasant spot amongst the trees to BBQ and socialise with our friends from the Ford Clubs.  Some of us did note that the Secretary spent too much time looking at the Fords.  This together with the Chief Steward giving his mates the push, including the President, and also taking his wife Dianne on the Club run, does leave me with some cause for concern.
With these problems on my mind, I departed for home followed by Bill and Jean who were to collect a piece of flexible duct for their Plymouth.   A thoroughly enjoyable day!

Eric Levett


AutoMania on the Downs - 28th February 1999
 As we had to be in Toowoomba before 8am, an early start at 6am was required.  I only just managed it too!  There was little time to chat at Gailes and we were off towards the dark clouds to the west.  At the top of the range, we were met with fog and a dismal drizzle of rain.  This rain and some wind persisted for most of the day, coming down horizontally rather than vertically.  Due to lack of space inside for our 17 vehicles, we were required to shelter from the weather under the Ford tent, which we were allocated.

 After setting up, some of us vainly chamoised our vehicles.  Others, including Tony and myself, seemed to upset the officials by attempting to enter the display without our armbands.  This was a record year for “Automania”, with more than 180 vehicles on display in two pavilions. This gave us much to look at, albeit that there were too many little cars with big radios.  Some of the paintwork on the vehicles was spectacular.  I understand that the paint on the Magna is worth over $1,000 per litre!  But it does change colour from blue, green, red, purple and so on, depending on the angle and light.

 For those of us trying to guess what the crushed car was, it was a 1969 Toyota Corona (I picked 1971).  Several lucky door prizes were handed out, most of which I collected gladly on behalf of other Club members.  Unfortunately, other Club members told the winning Club members that I had them!

 Due to the weather conditions, many of us left during the afternoon.  Mick, Rowan and myself departed at about 3pm.  We found the fog still at the top of the range and the rain most of the way to Ipswich.  Craig and Pat, Dennis and Yolanda and Neil and Marge stayed on to collect any trophies we may have won, but returned empty handed.  I believe many of those who attended are praying for rain at Inverell to add to the enjoyment of Easter.

Eric Levett


Hervey Bay – Kondari Car Show 23/24th January 1999

This weekend started well with the promising news from Brad that he would be unable to go – less competition for my AP3 and therefore a chance at a trophy.  7am Saturday, Bruce, Laurie and Jim arrived at Hendra in DGE40 along with Steve and Julie in the AP2 and we left for the meeting point at Burpengary.  Bill and Jean in the very original ’58 Belvedere, Mick and Ruth in the CL, Graham and Judy in the AP6, Brian in Terry and Joel’s VH Charger and Neil and Marge in Tonto also arrived.    The serious business of filling up and completing Graham’s “cheat sheet” was accomplished and we were on our way.  (It’s called a “cheat sheet” because of the fibs Bruce tells in order to better my fuel economy).

 Graham took the lead and Lyle and Sandy joined us just past the Pomona turnoff in the magenta pink Charger.  After a pitstop at Curra (north of Gympie), where Bruce had crab sandwiches while the plebs ate pies, we crossed the Gunalda Range, and I took on the duty of convoy leader.

 The thought occurred to me that if we whipped by Mal and Sylvia’s and shove a bit of liquid metal into his garage door lock so the AP1 could not get out, Steve would also win a trophy.  Unfortunately, Mal was already at Kondari when we arrived with his AP1 looking schmick and a little fence around it so it couldn’t be sabotaged.  Roy and Helen had also arrived in the Desoto as well as some 20 Corvettes, 6 or so HSV’s, similar number of Mazda’s RX7’s, a Jaguar, Statesman, Monaros etc. – about 50 in total.  Terry and Joel were quick to check the Charger – they had arrived in the furniture truck – in case anyone bought anything?

 We checked in, and I grabbed the double bed.  Keep you grubby minds out of the gutter. I just like to stretch out when I sleep! We then set up the display.  5pm and a rally around Hervey Bay then an hour or so of socializing before an excellent dinner – I think we all got our $10 worth.  The evening went well, but unfortunately while I was entertaining the out of town members (to wit Mal), Bruce got disorientated, and finished up in the double bed.  We don’t know exactly what happened during the night in my double bed but Bruce was seen having an extremely cold shower in the morning and using terrible language mostly directed at myself.  I suppose one can wake up cranky if the bed is uncomfortable, but that sort of language on a Sunday!

 Discretion being the better part of valour, I departed the unit to assist setting up for Sunday’s display and discreetly slipped off with Mal for a look at the adjacent craft and flea market.  Several members were noticed at the market practicing for Toowoomba Swap i.e. walking around in the dust and the heat spending money on things they didn't really need.  A chap with an AP5 Regal for sale was directed towards Roy and Helen. Haven’t caught up with what happened there, but Terry and Joel did not come back with us – something about the truck possibly being needed later on by Roy.  Editors Note: The car was a crock and Roy passed it over!

 After some time relaxing and keeping out of Bruce’s way, the trophy presentation was held with Lyle and Sandy, Mal and myself (thanks Brad) collecting a cash prize and 2 days accommodation at the Resort at some future date.  Graham and Judy, Roy and Helen and Mick and Ruth were able to stay on for a day longer (they don’t waste money on crab sandwiches). Unfortunately, the rest of us had to leave.  The run home was fairly uneventful, apart from me almost running over a Mazda RX 7 coming into Maryborough. Gees, they sit low to the ground.  I could see the Royal’s door handles out of my rear vision mirror but not the Mazda lower down.

 This left me to contemplate three things –

1. Ring Brad, thank him for not coming and skite about my win.
2. Mal will spend the cash part of the prize, but how will he fit the D.W. at Kondari in his trophy cabinet?
3. I don’t need a trophy cabinet because of Brad and Mal, but whom do I get to volunteer for a D.W.?
Hope to see you all on the next run to Toowoomba on 28th February.

“D.W.” – Dirty Weekend

Eric Levett

Kondari Resort,Car Show Prize Winners
2 Door Coupe - Classic  - Sandy Garcia - 1972 Valiant VH Charger
4 Door Modified - Classic  - Mal Clonan  - 1957 Chrysler Royal AP1 Sedan
4 Door Original - Classic  - Eric Levett  - 1960 Chrysler Royal AP3 Sedan

 Club Run - Ginger Factory and Sunshine Coast - 15 November 1998

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