December 2019

The magazine of the

Monthly Meetings are HELD at ASHFIELD RSL, 374 Liverpool Rd, Ashfield,
On the 2nd WEDNESDAY of each month (except January and March); at 2000 hrs.

General Disclaimer :
The opinions and views expressed by contributors to Rough Tracks Magazine are not necessarily those of
the Editor and/or of the Management Committee of The Australian Ex-Military Vehicle Collectors Society
Incorporated.
 THE 2019-20 A.M.V.C.S. COMMITTEE
PO Box 221 Gladesville NSW 2111 www.amvcs.org.au

President Vice President Treasurer, Public Relations

Max Mann Brian Healey Governance Officer Officer
(H) 02 9522 6039 (M) & Membership Jan
(M) 0438 522 602 0407 281 796 Secretary Thompson-Creamer
Email: Email: John Gordon (M) 0412 078 096
max205@ brianhealey@ (H) 02 9449 1198 (H) 02 9969 7607
optusnet.com.au bigpond.com (M) 0411 868 745 Email:
jgor9364@ jan.thompson1@
bigpond.net.au optusnet.com.au

Communications Website First Aid Officer Club Plate Register

Officer & Editor Administrator Jane Packer Lawrie Winney
Richard Farrant ‘Wazza’ Packer Mob: 0412 533 174 (T) 02 4938 7605
Email: wazzap1967@live.com.au janeyp@live.com.au Please leave a message on
amvcs.editor@ answering machine
btinternet.com Mail to:
Skype: richard.farrant3 PO Box 76
Greta, NSW, 2334

Annual Awards ANZAC & Alt. CMC Delegate

Co-ordinator Military Events CMC Delegate & Minutes Sec.
Bill Sjoblom Co-ordinator Garry Beers Anne Dignam
(M) 0416 214 076 Allan Hirschel (H) (T) 02 9747 5957
(M) 0415 259 777 02 9529 8165 annezane@hotmail.com
Email:
vk2vec@gmail.com

Page 2 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

 MANOEUVRES
S 2020 12th th
2/30 AIF Assoc. Gemas Day Parade Ceremony Jan Thompson-Creamer
Jan. Suakin Barracks, 2 Suakin Rd., Pymble Starts 10.30am 0412 078 096

S Jan. 25th, 26th 2020 Guyra Military Vehicle Gathering

Bill Weston
till midday Guyra Showground
th 0429 659 261
27 Camping available
S Jan. 26th CARnivale 2020 John Flower
Australia Day jflower@cityofparramatta.
Parramatta nsw.gov.au

S Jan. 26th Australia Day Jan Thompson-Creamer

Australiana Pioneer Village, Wilberforce 0412 078 096
S Feb. 9th Sydney Military Muster Warren “Wazza” Packer
Australiana Pioneer Village, From 8am 0412 533 174
Wilberforce wazzap1967@live.com.au
Feb. 12th AMVCS Monthly Meeting 8pm
Ashfield RSL

S March 9th-15th 41st Annual Corowa Swim-In

& Military Vehicle Gathering Jan Thompson-Creamer
Corowa, NSW 0412 078 096
‘Year of the Military Motorcycle’
S April 17th-19th Ironfest 2020 - Lithgow Jan 0412 078 096
S July 26th Land Rover Expo 2020
Details to follow
Hawkesbury Showground
S Sept. 13th All British Day Details to follow
S Oct. 17th-18th Temora Airshow Details to follow
S Nov. 5th- 8th Clarence Town Swim-In Details to follow

Manoeuvres event list

If you require more information on an event in the above list, please use the contact details in
the right hand column. Quite often full details have been in a previous newsletter, so please
refer back first. We do not want to continually repeat flyers and notices in the newsletter as it
takes up space and raises cost of printed copies.

From your Editor

I would like to thank members for their support and encouragement this year, I was seriously considering to
stand down from this role, but due to the messages received, I realised how much you appreciated the club’s
newsletter.
Please send any little story, related to our hobby. Whether it will be about a restoration, breakdown,
something funny that happened. In fact anything you would like to share. You can email it straight to me at
the following address: amvcs.editor@btinternet.com
Wishing you a Merry Christmas, regards, Richard

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 3

 From “Honourable Doctor” Lawrie
Annual Inspection now due for the following. Make a booking with Lawrie on 02 4938 7605
If no reply, then please leave a message and your number on the answering machine
You can also send post to Lawrie at: PO Box 76, Greta, NSW 2334
If you have problems contacting Lawrie, contact Max Mann: max205@optusnet.com.au or 0438 522 602

December January February

Philip Delbridge, John Oldenmenger, Peter Kunz snr.,
Mick Jericevich, Ian Deszecsar, Ron King, Anthony Shorten,
Dennis McLaughlin, Clint Wasserman, David Goodman,
Peter Milne, Peter Pether, David Argles, Peter Milne, Brett Wild,
Bill Sjoblom, Luis Cifuentes, Benjamin Schweinsberg,
Hans Sprangers, Ray Kickert, David Argles,
Peter Kunz snr. and jnr., Philip Delbridge,
Bruce McCann, Dennis McLaughlin,
Mick Jericevich, Leo Di Rocco,
Warren Packer Peter Pether,
Glenn Cairncross

MESSAGE FROM VEHICLE REGISTRAR

When calling Vehicle Registrar, Lawrie Winney by telephone:
LISTEN TO RVA (Recorded Voice Announcement)
REPLY to message NOT – “my LR/Trailer/Jeep is out of rego what do I do” (no name – no phone number
- no rego plate. 150 vehicles on plates, 60 plus owners WHO WAS IT?)
DO NOT EXPECT AN ANSWER WITHOUT INPUT

IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM CLUB REGISTRAR :

ACTION REQUIRED – CONDITIONAL REGISTRATION
Members who have vehicles on Conditional Registration (“Club Plates”) are reminded that it is a condition of
holding such registration that the following is advised immediately to the Club Registrar, Lawrie Winney.
1. For all new registrations – advise details of the Number Plate; the date of registration; details of the
comprehensive insurance policy (number, insurer, date).
2. For all renewals – advise details of the date of renewal; details of the comprehensive insurance policy
(number, insurer, date).
If you have any questions regarding these requirements,
please contact Lawrie Winney (02) 4938 7605 or leave a message on answering machine, with your number so
Lawrie can get back to you.
If posting to Lawrie by snail mail, please use this address: PO Box 76, Greta, NSW, 2334
Also .. Ensure your Membership Renewal is paid up as it is a condition of Club Plates, this is very important for
you and the club.

Page 4 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

 CLARENCE TOWN SWIM-IN 2020
Please note: the 2020 event is to be held on
5th -8th November 2020
Incorrect dates were in the last newsletter
Apologies to the organisers for the error

MINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING OF THE A.M.V.C.S.

HELD AT ASHFIELD RSL ON WEDNESDAY 11th DECEMBER 2019

Minutes prepared by: Anne Dignam Reviewed by: John Gordon

Meeting opened : 20:00hrs
Members Present: 14
Committee Members: 7
Visitors: Rod Leonard, Marie Mann, Pauline Somers
Apologies: Brian Healey, John Gordon, Monty Jones, Mario Mencigar, Harvey Black, Peter and Ruth Milne, Paul
Sansom, Mick Jericevich, Fred Reeves, Jackie Marshal, Mike Sturtevant
Declaration of Interest: Nil
Minutes of Previous Meeting: Moved by: John Oldenmenger Seconded by: Jim O’Connell Carried
Matters arising from Minutes: Nil
President’s Report: Where has this year gone! It is hard to believe that Christmas is almost here.
I must thank everyone for their participation in events this year. The Christmas party was very successful and
thanks must go to Dennis Taylor for once again co-ordinating Christmas at Menangle. The entertainment
provided by Garry Buttel had everyone singing along. Thanks Garry.
Bill Sjoblom again excelled himself with the organising and making of the trophies for our award presentation.
The Best Restored Vehicle was given to Dave Argles for his FWD HAR1, which took many years to restore starting
with very little of the original vehicle. Thank you Ron King, who spoke so highly of Dave Argles’ restoration and
explained especially to new members the huge task Dave undertook restoring the vehicle. Your words, Ron,
were very much appreciated by the audience. The list of Award Winners will be published in the magazine.
I have just received a phone call from Mick Jericevich thanking the Club for his “Get Well” gift . The Club has also
received “thank you” calls from Lawrie Winney and Brian Healey for the gifts they received from the Club during
their stay/s in Hospital. It is great to see that they are recovering well and Mick even made it to the Christmas
Party at Menangle.
The Club has extended sympathy to Jan Thompson-Creamer on the sudden loss of her father, Hugh. Many
members remember Hugh at Corowa. Jan also thanked the members for their support and the gift sent on
behalf of AMVCS.
A big thank you must go to Carol Alexander for bringing the new Club shirts to last month’s Meeting. We
enjoyed the fashion parade. Members at the Meeting were impressed by the new shirts and many orders were
taken. An order form will be included in the next month’s “Rough Tracks.”
I must personally thank the Committee for their support and understanding in 2019 especially as I had some
medical issues.
I have just been connected to NBN and are experiencing problems especially with our home phone, which now
has been disconnected!!!!!!. After 10 phone calls we are still getting the standard answer that we have a
problem. Sorry for those, who have tried to ring but no incoming calls have been received. Apologies to the
Committee if I have not answered your emails.
The Committee wishes all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 5

and we all look forward to another successful year with our vehicles participating the many events already
planned.
Max Mann President
PS There will be no Club Meeting in January and March (due to Corowa)
Vice President’s Report: Nil
Correspondence In: Nil
Correspondence Out: Nil
Registrar’s Report: Noted that the Club had 2 unusual registrations one for a “Minor Field Kitchen” and a
“Rapier” trailer.
Lawrie Winney
Treasurer’s Report:
1. Cash at Bank & Investment
Term Deposit – Westpac (1.30% maturing 11/2/2020) $ 6,084.92
Main Bank Account – Westpac $ 5,722.14
Total Cash & Investment $11,807.06
2. Main Account Bank balance
O/B 13/11/2019 ­ $ 9,908.28
+ Deposits $ 1,073.21
- Payments $ 5,259.35
C/B 10/12/2019 $ 5,722.14
3. Deposits for the month include: subscriptions from existing members $80.00 and from new members $310.00,
Christmas dinner and breakfast collected $250.00, Advertising $200.00, Shirts orders $212.45, receipt re name
badge $20.00 and interest $0.76. Total =$1,073.21.
4. Payments by Cheques and Electronic Transfer (E.T.):
Date Payee For $ Cheque E.T.
20/11/2019 Lawrie Winney Reimb brief case & stationery 134.72 200747
23/11/2019 Max Mann Reimb X’mas chocolates, towels 44.75 200748
etc
23/11/2019 Cash (Betty) X’mas dinner part payment 340.00
200749
23/11/2019 Bill Sjoblom Reimb awards 145.00 200750
23/11/2019 Jane Packer Reimb first aid kits stock replace- 54.87
ment 200751
Cancelled - 200752
23/11/2019 Evan McVey X’mas breakfast 192.00 200753
NSW Steam
Preservation Co-
23/11/2019 op Society Contribution re train purchase 2,500.00 200754
41.00
23/11/2019 Max Mann Reimb X’mas sweets 200755
Reimb X’mas dinner -cash pay-
26/11/2019 J Gordon ment to caterer & refund 499.00 1913617
333.30
26/11/2019 Snap Blacktown Nov newsletters 1132554
376.50
26/11/2019 Sportsgifts Awards 1171686
28/11/2019 J Gordon Reimb re gourmet basket 114.90 1835589
2/12/2019 J Gordon Reimb re gourmet basket 134.90 1132972
3/12/2019 J Gordon Reimb re postage & stationery 36.60 1040079
5/12/2019 Jane Packer Reimb medical supplies 51.98 1351093
9/12/2019 Badge World Name badges 193.88 1961361
10/12/2019 J Gordon Reimb gourmet basket 65.95 1114013

Total 5,259.35

Resolution: I seek a resolution to confirm this Treasurer’s report and approve the payments as listed.
Moved: Jan Thompson Creamer Seconded: Jane Packer Carried

Page 6 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

5. Membership Secretary’s Report:
The following Applicants are proposed for approval:
Andrew Wisniewiski
Scott Allison
Micheal Parker
Damien Lynn
Glen Plumridge

With the above 5 approved and 1 old member renewed, total number of members is 202.
Resolution: I seek a resolution to confirm the applicants for membership.

Moved: Jan Thompson Creamer Seconded: Gary Beers Carried

Welcome to our new members
Governance Report:
Nil
J.A. Gordon
AMVCS - Treasurer, Membership Secretary & Governance Officer

Public Relations Officer’s report:

GEMAS DAY - SUNDAY 12th JANUARY, 2020
Our time of arrival: 8:30am
Vehicles attending: Troy and Jan – Land Rover, Garry Buttel – Jeep, Stuart Wearne – Mutt, John Gordon –
Australian army Jeep and Jeep, John Somers – Jeep, Tony Playle – Jeep, Peter Milne- Chev Staff Car. If anyone has
a WW2 vehicle which is not a jeep we are interested so please call Jan on 0412 078 096
Ceremony commences - 10.30am The Gemas Day parade at Pymble will include a special ceremony to
commemorate the passing of the last member of the Battalion, Bill Ennis
Where is it held?
2/17 Battalion, Royal NSW Regiment Depot (Suakin Barracks), 2 Suakin Street, Pymble
From Ryde Road, turn left into West Street, continue straight ahead into Suakin Street, and go to top of the rise.

Australia Day: Sunday 25th January – Parramatta Park

Australia Day- Wilberforce Sunday 26th January

• Drivers entry into The Australiana Pioneer Village will be at no charge
• Passengers will be charged the entry fee into The Australiana Pioneer Village: $5.00 per Adult, $3.00 per
Child, $15.00 2A & 2C - Children under school age - No Charge
• Arrival time for Australia Day is between 7.00am to 8.30am
• Entry is through Buttsworth Lane, Wilberforce (the gates in Rose Street, Wilberforce do not open until
9.00am) The gates are open to the Public between 9.00am to 5.00pm
• We do ask that no cars on display leave the Village before 5.00pm due to the number of public in The
Australiana Pioneer Village
We will be celebrating in 2020 our 10th Australia Day since The Australian Pioneer Village was re-opened.

Military Muster Wilberforce – Sunday 9th Feb with camping allowed from Saturday 8th Feb
Warren Packer will be co-ordinating the military vehicles on the Sunday. (Ed. More info in this newsletter)

41st Annual Corowa Swim-In and Military Vehicle Gathering from Monday 9th the Sunday 15th March.
For those interested in attending the Corowa Swim-In and Military Vehicle Gathering in March here is an
important message.
Ball Park Caravan Park update:
As it stands there are 158 powered sites, substantially up from 2019. They expect the numbers of unpowered

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 7

sites will be the same as last year utilising the oval area and the area from the cricket nets to the pool fence. The
area that was along Bridge Road is no longer part of Ball Park. It is now designated as public open space, so there
are no sites, no power and no camping in that area. People who were in this area have been allocated another
area within the fenced area of the Park.
We have received a Sponsorship Grant from the Federation Council and we are also applying for an Australia Day
Award and if successful we would get this 3 years in a row as we were successful in 2018 and 2019. The Corowa
RSL has given us a grant to go towards the parade. Our 40 th anniversary celebrations include the purchase of 2
different types of numberplates. People must be entrants and can either request a sequential plate from 1-150
(at this stage) for $30 and if the number you want is not available we can negotiate a number. There are only 54
sequential numbers left. We might go up to 200 if we sell out. The standard plates are selling well for $25 each.
The trips have been confirmed as:
Wednesday 11th March: Trip around the Chiltern area involving some 4WD.
Thursday 12th March: Trip to Howlong and Brocklesby area;
Depart Ball Park at approx. 10am. The Balldale Hotel is open again after a few years closure so we might stop
there after the day’s activities.
Friday 13th March:
7:30-9:30am: KVE BBQ at Ball Park Caravan Park
Approx. 9:00 departure: Richard is organising a Motorcycle Run just for motorcycles. We will probably also
organise a trip for other vehicles and maybe end up meeting up with the motorcycles for lunch. We will stop at
Wooragee between Chiltern and Beechworth.
Friday night: 40th Anniversary commemorations, auction and 2 course dinner at the Corowa Footy Club. We
would like to hear from anyone that would like to talk about the Swim-In. You don’t need to have attended the
majority of the years. Even people who may have attended one or a few years are welcome. Please let me know
so we can put you on our list. The number plates which have been held back will be auctioned on this night. We
are looking at inviting the General Manager of the Federation Council and other stakeholders who have
contributed to the event.
Saturday 14th March: Vehicles will line up at Bangerang Park from 7.30am and participate in the parade at 9am to
the Corowa Showgrounds where there will be a photo shoot and swap meet. Dutchy will contact Mick to organise
the cherrypicker and Jan McKenna for the showgrounds and swap meet.
From 1pm: vehicle activities
From 8 - 9pm in the evening there will be presentations by the KVE Site Office.
We have really appreciated the people who have helped out on our site office and we have taken into
consideration some suggestions they have had. This is a good opportunity to meet participants and even if you
can do a couple of hours this really helps KVE.
Ironfest: Friday 17th to Sunday 19th April. Please let Jan Thompson know if you are interested in attending.
0412 078 096 or jan.thompson1@optusnet.com.au
Participants: Jane and Warren Packer, Tony Playle, David McKinlay
Menangle Steam Rally: 16th and 17th May
Land Rover Expo 2020 – 26 July 2020 at the Hawkesbury Showground
All British Day 2020 is Sunday, September 13th.
Temora Airshow is a possible event on 17th and 18th October.
Clarence Town Swim-in – Thursday 5th to Sunday 8th November 2020.
Many thanks to those who sent cards, flowers, gift baskets and condolence messages to my mother Barbara, my
brother James and myself when my father passed away on 15 th November. It was unexpected, sudden and he
didn’t suffer.
Best wishes to everyone for Christmas and the New Year.
Jan Thompson-Creamer
CMC (Council of Motor Clubs) CMC Delegates:
Shannons Sydney Classic 16 August $25 per ticket including a $5 donation to Prostate Cancer Research.
15 August VJ Day
17 May National Heritage Motoring Day

Page 8 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

Robert Shannon Foundation for people under 30 yrs. old, involved in car movement.
AHMF Conditional Registration (Club Plates) numbers from RMS:
HVS 54,800
CVS 3,800
STREET RODS 257 (Street rods have been changing onto CVS)
RALLY CARS 0

All American Day Sunday 19/1/20 Macarthur Square Campbelltown.

CMC AGM All committee positions filled.
Next meeting 28/1/20
Note – CMC members with NRMA Roadside Service for classic cars may be eligible for special deal. Refer separate
flyer (Ed. In this newsletter)
Garry Beers

First Aid Officer Report:

Thankfully a nice quiet month in the 1st aid department with no injuries or problems to report.
We have purchased a medical immobilising cervical collar and snake and spider first aid kit. These have been
added to the main first aid kit which travels with the defibrillator. The snake bite kit contains instructions on how
to treat snake and spider bites, specialised bandages, an ice pack, a non adherent dressing, a marking pen and an
immobilising splint and tape to secure it. The specialised bandages have rectangles printed down the length of
the bandage. When the correct tension is achieved these rectangles become squares. This way you can be sure
the bandage is tight enough but not too tight.
I have laminated the first aid algorithm for use in the event of a collapse, and put it in with the defibrillator. Have
also laminated two cards covering basic first aid in the event other injuries. These I’ve placed in the first aid kit.
The medical information letter is still in draft stage due to time restrictions but I will be revisiting this in the new
year.
Regarding WWC checks, I have had a request from Sam King re. the Howlong Pre-school visit (while we are in
Corowa next March). They are asking for WWC checks. Anyone wishing to attend this visit will be asked to
provide their number.
I’d like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy and healthy Christmas and 2020.
Jane Packer
Social Media Officer Report:
Our Facebook page continues to grow steadily since the last meeting ,with 8 new followers most interest seems
to be our next major event on Sunday the 9th February at Pioneer Village at Wilberforce ,that being the 1st
Sydney Military Muster ,we have had 282 people see our post for this event and the event itself has attracted
7.4k people interested in the event.
Our Website is underway with myself and Nicole collating photos and articles into appropriate sections ,we could
always do with more photos from smaller events our members attend. The website itself will start basic and then
new items or stories can be added as the website grows. Once we are happy with the basic setup we will then
transfer the domain name from the current owner and go public, we hope to be able to do this the 1st week of
February. At this stage there will be ONLY a downloadable application form and no private advertising, but that
maybe something for the future.
Wazza
General Business:
John Oldenmenger (Dutchy): Mentioned Dave Argles FWD HAR1. Dutchy knew the truck when it was in St Marys.
Dutchy will forward his knowledge of this vehicle in a future Newsletter.

Jan Thompson Creamer: Selling mugs for Corowa $25

Gary Beers: Mentioned costs for storage for CMC $2,330 and LROC $3,068. Our Radar Archive Van is an
economical investment to store our archives.

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 9

Carol Alexander: Please Contact Carol to place your order by 18 th December. 30 orders received so far, a
minimum of 40 is required. Measurements will be corrected on order form.

Gary Beers: Mentioned Greta Army Camp a friend was there and remembers the Maitland Floods. David
McKinley’s wife’s father was also a Greta Migrant. Jane Packer mentioned at Greta she rode with the Governor
Generals wife. Anne Dignam added, The Young family from AC/DC were also migrants before moving to
Burwood and going to Ashfield Boys High prior to becoming AC/DC.

Scott Rough brought in some spare straps which was appreciated by those who took them.

Barry Caesar: Had 2 rusty spare jeep jerrycan brackets which Scott Rough happily accepted.

Rod Leonard (visitor): Thanked us all in advance for participating at the Pymble military event in January.

Wazza Packer: Mentioned Anthony Shorten passed on thanks with regards to concern of the fires, his property is
now safe.

Anne Dignam: added Keith Adam’s property also safe. Jim O’Connell showed some photos he had of how close it
came to Keith’s place.

Troy Creamer: Is selling fans for $15 each. (call Troy on 0418 274 056)

Meeting Closed: 21:00hrs

Next Meeting: Wednesday 12th February 2020

A message of thanks from Jan Thompson-Creamer

I would like to thank all the club members who contacted me with their kind thoughts and
sympathy over the passing of my father Hugh Thompson last month. Many of you would have
met Hugh at Corowa, he had been to 38 of the 40 Swim-Ins, in the early days driving up from
Point Lonsdale in his Ford Blitz ambulance, but latterly in a car. His enthusiasm for military
vehicles certainly rubbed off on me!

At the funeral were a number of

members from the Victorian club
(VMVC) and messages were read out
from other clubs.

As Keith Webb remarked, Hugh was

probably one of the early people to
save an old WW2 military vehicle from
conversion when he bought the
ambulance from a scrap dealer and
preserved it nearly 60 years ago.
Jan

Page 10 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

 NRMA Roadside Maintenance for Classic Cars
The Council for Motor Clubs has been in negotiation with the NRMA seeking
improved arrangements for motoring enthusiasts in respect of roadside
maintenance.

A number of discussions have been held where CMC representatives have put forward the proposal that a
form of “driver cover” be offered to NRMA members who are true motoring enthusiasts and may own and
drive more than one vehicle. Similar cover is offered by equivalent organisations to the NRMA in other States
of Australia. The NRMA has to date rejected this type of “driver cover”, but has now put in writing to the CMC
a proposal whereby a fee for cars 25% discount will be offered on the annual membership fee for cars 30
years and older and on conditional registration. That is, vehicles on “H”, “D” or “J” plates.

The scheme will be offered on a trial basis and the full operational details are yet to be finalised. CMC (and
NRMA) would like to have some sense level of possible acceptance of such a scheme prior to entering further
negotiations. The scheme should be beneficial to those who have just one car on conditional registration plus
a daily driver.

It would be appreciated if CMC delegates could gauge the level of interest in acceptance of this NRMA
proposal from members of their individual clubs. A simple means of assessing the level of interest might be to
ask members at a Club meeting and applying a percentage of those at the meeting expressing interest on a
prorate basis to the total Club membership.

Discussions to date indicate that the scheme would be available to all classic vehicles on conditional
registration but we propose to utilise CMC affiliated club for assessing preliminary interest. Comments on the
extent of interest (eg. 5%, 10%, 20%, etc) can be emailed to Bob Adby at radby@bigpond.com or simply
reported back at the January meeting of the CMC.

Regards: Bob Adby 0409 317 974

IMPORTANT NOTICE
TO ALL THOSE INTENDING TO
TAKE PART IN THE
SYDNEY MILITARY MUSTER
Sunday 9th February

Camping is available on Saturday from 12pm

onwards, and on Sunday 9/2/2020 all vehicles must
be in place by 9 am at the latest.

All vehicles to enter via Butsworth Lane only from

there they will be directed to our display area where
I will form up our display.

Any vehicular enquiries, please contact Wazza on

0412 777 170 or email to:
wazza1967@live.com.au

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 11

 FOR SALE
DODGE WC63 6x6

Through our business contacts we have been asked to market this special military type vehicle for an estate of
the engineer/designer of this modified vehicle. From what I have been told this unit was imported from
Norway and modified in Melbourne until the chap got sick with cancer. It was the owner’s intent to use the
vehicle as a feature display to help raise funds for worthwhile charities, while he toured Australia.
Nothing has been skimped on that I can see and finished off it would be an extreme showpiece. If your club or
any member would like to inspect or purchase this unit, knowing it is to remain in Australian ownership,
please get in touch with me.

Serial no. 3332867 Customised 1944 Dodge WC63 right hand drive Weapons Carrier. New custom cabin with
sleeper, bucket seats, air-con, CD player, GPS, Allison T bar auto, power steering, disc brakes, air bag
suspension on reworked chassis, 16” combat wheels, Cummins 4BT turbo after-cooled engine, professionally
fitted. New alloy fuel tank and tray with lockers, hydraulic winch, lots of extras.
Drop box and diff centres dismantled ready to be re-raced. This project is near complete, inspection is
encouraged. Videos available on www.hytrac.org

For sale at $55,000 inc. as is to finalise the assets of a very skilled tradesman’s untimely passing.
Call 0428 419 495 to arrange inspection.

WANTEd
2 x Large Tac signs
Contact;
John “Dutchy” Oldenmenger
on 0425 253 253

Page 12 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

AMVCS Christmas Party - report and photos from Max Mann

Camping at Menangle
for the Christmas Party

Enjoying the
Christmas Dinner with
friends

Left:
Max presenting the cheque
from AMVCS to the Train Trust
at the Steam Museum.

Right:
Shobby struggling with the
weight of the Clubmanship
Award

For the list of Award recipients,

see the following page >>

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 13

 Photos of the Awards being presented

Jane accepting
Encouragement Award
on behalf of
Dexter McQuhae for
restored push bike.

BOG AWARD - Warren Packer, who CLUBMANSHIP AWARD.

was bogged at Corowa John Somers for work on storage van
(radar van)

CHAIRMAN AWARD Troy Creamer for falling

off Pete Pether’s chair and breaking it.
Eddy Gregier. Special Award for services to AMVCS

AMVCS Awards for 2019

Best Restored - Don Hill Award - Dave Argles - FWD HAR1
Clubmanship - John Somers - work on Radar Van
Breakdown - Peter Milne - after Clarendon
Best Bogged - Dave Brown Award - Warren Packer
Most improved driver - not awarded
Lost Sheep - not awarded
Chairmans (OOPS) - Troy Creamer - destroying a chair at Corowa
Chairmans secondary - Anne Dignam - lawn trenching at Cessnock Air Show
Encouragement Award - Dexter McQuhae
Special Award - Eddie Gregier - services to AMVCS

Page 14
“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter
 Baby “Rosie” - Back to the Future
John A. Gordon
Like many, my first encounter with a WW2 jeep was when I
received a 2nd hand Cyclops pedal jeep for my birthday when I was
about 6, a few years back! I pedalled this jeep constantly around
the back yard of our old home in Coffs Harbour. I used it so much
that the pressed steel steering wheel actually broke at the centre.
My ever-resourceful dad adapted the large sprocket from a push
bike, filing-off the pointed teeth to make a super strong steering
wheel that certainly did the job, even though it remained a little
bumpy for small hands!
This is where my desire to own a real WW2 jeep started, reinforced
by Dinky toy models, comic books, movies and scale model plastic
Airfix kits. I purchased my first jeep in 2009 when I “semi-retired”.
This is a 1st contract Ford GPW 14077 delivered 4.8.42 from Ford’s
River Rouge plant in Detroit Michigan. The jeep was given a full
“frame-off” restoration by a good friend, John Stapleford based
near Gatton in Southern Queensland. John has much experience
repairing and restoring jeeps over more than 40 years. We finished
the GPW in correct US lustreless olive drab with lustreless blue
drab registration numbers. If this were my dad’s jeep, he would
have named it after his wife, so it was named “Rosie” after my mother Rosaline.
A couple of years back, I had the opportunity to purchase a well-used pedal jeep, this time made by Tri-ang.
Unlike the Cyclops which has 7 faux slots, the Tri-ang model has the correct 9 slot grill for a WW2 jeep. Skilled
club member John Somers (“man of steel”) restored the jeep for me, taking much trouble to restore a rusted and
bent body and frame. Not content with this, John, assisted by his mate and another club member Alan Shepherd,
created an exquisite scale model of a WW2 jeep jerrycan bracket complete with adjustable strap. The lads did not
stop there, they also fashioned from wood an excellent copy of a US jerrycan complete with QMC markings. John
and Alan also fabricated a working pintle hook and a script “Ford” badge for the rear, just like the original.
Painted in matching lustreless olive drab, the finished jeep looked a treat. To round-off the restoration, I took the
jeep to my restorer John Stapleford in Southern Queensland to make and apply the correct shape, style and scale
of registration and unit markings to match those on big Rosie. I think you will agree the end result is very
pleasing!
I arranged to have the jerrycan bracket attached with magnets so I could display baby Rosie as an early jeep
without jerrycan, or later type with fitted jerrycan bracket (refer photos).
Baby Rosie had her first public viewing at the recent Soar & Roar event (refer separate article) where she was
popular with young and old.
Thanks again to John Somers, Alan Shepherd and John Stapleford for creating a “mini-me” Rosie!

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 15

Someone is going to get a
nice present from Santa !

If you have not sent your entry in for the Corowa Swim-In
yet and would like a sequential number plate as above, the
available numbers as of 15/12/19 are below:

023, 024, 026, 027, 028, 033, 036, 037, 057, 062, 076, 083,
085, 086, 092, 095, 096, 097, 102, 103, 104, 105, 107, 108,
112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 122, 123, 124,
125, 126, 127, 129, 130, 132, 134, 135, 136, 137, 140, 146,
148

Entry form is at the end of this newsletter.

This offer is for pre-registered participants

Page 16 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

 FOR SALE

1945 Willys Trailer.

Manufactured by
Pacific Builders, California
Serial # 152810
In original condition
and still road registered.

$3500 ono

Contact David 02 6564 2086

FOR SALE

1945 Australian
#4 Jeep Trailer.
Serial # 168185
In original condition with what
appears to be a factory
modification rear tailgate

$2000

Contact David 02 6564 2086

Perentie key rings

We have been made aware of a range of key rings aimed at the Perentie owners
and enthusiast - just right for a Christmas present!
There a 6 variants, FFR, Cargo, RFSV, SFPV,
Ambulance and Assault Pioneer. Priced at $15
There is a 10% Discount Code: ‘sharethelove’
Contact:
simon@fusedgoods.com.au
See the website link below:

https://www.fusedgoods.com.au/shop/land-rover-perentie-keyring

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 17

Page 18
“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter
 They are off to Corowa in March for
the Year of the Motorcycle
Get your bikes out and dusted
off and join them!
Entry form in this newsletter

Pensioner & Service Personnel Discounts

Fully Insured
National Police Check Clearance
Removal of old cars
General items moved

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 19

 The Road to Soar and Roar
A tale of many gaskets & a desperate Jeeper in need, & helpful friends indeed
Tony Playle
The scene, Roar & Soar (refer separate news article from John Gordon) is an annual pre-Christmas event for
intellectually disabled children & young adults held at a local Sydney speed car venue in which many auto &
motor bike clubs attend to display & let the good people enjoy the day. We had a small number of jeeps attend, I
was very lucky in the end to attend, but not without a tale of woe & some very good Jeeper friends to the rescue
though. Just goes to show (again) the camaraderie & all hands coming to the aid of a fellow AMVCS member.

The story, my background is non auto (read non jeep mechanic) & some almost 20 years since I attempted an oil
change (my son in law usually does all such work, but he was away working) so in prep for Soar & Roar and to
have a go myself I undertook an oil & filter change, which went horribly wrong.
Started Monday afternoon before the Sunday event (I am still working full time and
weekends pre Christmas pretty full). Drained the oil all Ok but unable to get the oil
canister lid off. Rang friend / advisor Rob Alexander for advice (he was out of town)
and he suggested light tapping around the lid to dislodge. Duly undertook this with a
light ball pein hammer duly tapping, graduated to mid size BP and tapped a little
harder, then a small slogging hammer with even more effort, no go. Another call, try
leverage using some small wooden blocks, tried that then graduated to a wheel brace
(21st birthday present a LONG time ago), gave plenty of leverage & used the hub cap
hook under the rim of lid. Then upped the leverage to a thin bar, still no go so wisely
decided to leave it till the next afternoon, and the following arvo as well. Eventual success & prised the lid off to
find it had been glued / welded with a blue goo.
So syringed out the oil canister nice & clean, popped the oil in without a spill, and went to fit the gasket of
probably the last filter canister in Sydney.. but alas, the gasket to small. Lots of ringing around but to no avail.
Eventually found a gasket manufacturer who very helpfully said they would make one for me straight away after
hearing of my plight. Brought it home, fitted it with glee, started it up, oil pressure went up, got out to have a
look feeling elated until could see the oil spurting with glee, end of happy me. Cleaned it up and decided enough
for me.
Then had a call from John Gordon to set up our usual meeting point to go to Soar & Roar, told him sorry,
probably not me... and this is now the story of many hands coming together for a friend truly in need. Jeepers
saving the day.
John, realising I was pretty down & out immediately rang John Somers (handy John S) who called me straight
away with words.... I'm coming down and showed up within 20 minutes. Much problem analysis & outcome
was to take the lid back to his place for "remedial treatment" and the oil bowl went on the next trip. Meanwhile
John Gordon quietly delivered his stand-by new old stock Fram oil bowl/bracket unit and spare gasket to John S
as emergency back up if needed. Mick Jericevich also pulled out his spares as well (might add that Mick was
going to hospital that arvo for surgery the next day, Onya Mick for taking the time to think of others - PS later
visited Mick in hospital straight after Roar & Soar, (all is well).
So after John Somers machined the lid & bowl (truing up my system) & using John G's gasket, the assembly fitted
& fired up Friday arvo & VERY HAPPY CHAPPIES indeed, worked a beaut of course.
So Saturday morning did my normal short warm up run for the Sunday Roar & Soar, went up to servo for fuel top
up ... AND ..... as removing the petrol cap, noticed something fall out... the cork gasket broke apart & fell out...
woe the tale of many gaskets,
Undeterred & committed to get Jeep to Roar & Soar went home to get the BIG GUNS out, my wonderful wife
Marg who is into all things art & craft & very crafty herself... so crafty she cut out a new cork gasket (yep had a
sheet in the shed, as U do, for yonks) and within 10 mins had it fixed...... and WE ALL SOARED & ROARED the
next day.
MY very warm thanks to all THOSE GOOD JEEP FOLK that made my day, it pays to belong to the AMVCS club
where friends are made and we all help one another in many ways.

Page 20 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter

 5 X G503’s for “Soar & Roar”
by John A. Gordon
On Sunday 8th December, a group of 5 members attended for the first time the charity “Soar & Roar” event at
Eastern Creek International Raceway. At 9 am I drove my GPW “Rosie” (along with “baby Rosie”) to my normal
meeting place at Seven Hills with Tony Playle. I was delighted to see Tony there with his operating MB (“I bought
a jeep” – refer Tony’s article elsewhere in this issue”) and John Somers with his “shiny” Military Police GPW. We
were soon joined by Alan Shepherd in his “shiny” GPW. We made our way to Eastern Creek in convoy on a
beautiful, mild Summer’s morning. At Eastern Creek we met new member Andrew Wisniewiski in a nicely
restored GPW that he had towed up from Moss Vale.
“Soar and Roar” is a long running charity event held in support of the Special Olympics to provide sporting
opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities. The Eastern Creek event brings together a large
group of motoring and motorcycling clubs to display their vehicles and provide “dream rides” to the participants.
It was spectacular watching hundreds of very quick bikes, expensive and exotic sports cars run through their
paces around the track eventually returning to the skid pan where our group were set up our display.
It was interesting to contrast the throaty rasp and lightning speeds of the
Ford V8 Mustangs, the screams of the high revving Ferraris and Porches
and then the sleek, stealthy, silent Teslas as they whisked away up the
straight. There was a great line up of Mini Mokes, all we needed was
Shobby’s Military version!
We were parked next to the NSW Police Highway Patrol display and had
great conversations with the two officers stationed there during the day.
We also had the opportunity to meet inspiring young members of the
Australian Army and Navy, several of whom had just completed their HSC
(refer photo). We also met many of the children and young adults
participating in the event and their families. They were attracted to the
small green military machines and impressed that we allowed them to take
photos sitting in our jeeps. Our small group of five worked well together,
entertaining the passers-by.
This was the first outing for newly restored pedal jeep, “mini me”
“Rosie” (refer separate article). Rosie attracted many
admirers young and old alike. The younger ones were
thrilled to hear they could literally take baby Rosie for a
spin on the skid pan!
In summary, a great day for a great cause. Who knows,
next year we may even get to do a lap of Eastern Creek
in our Military Vehicles!

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 21

Page 22 “Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter
 FOR SALE

1940 Ford coupe ute 1942 International KS5

plus sheet metal for tailboard and sides Motor turns, over needs full restoration for
already swaged. $4500 Back-to the-Track 2020 $3500

1. Willys Trailer M D Juan copy brand new $3,000

2. Brand new C60S or C30 chassis. Been in a shed for over 50 years. No rust between the
chassis rails. Rear 15 inches of chassis has been cut off but can be replaced easily $1000
For the trucks and other items, contact: Graham Meyer 0428 278 945

WANTEd
At least 2, preferably 3 900×20 truck tyres in reasonable
condition with at least 50% tread. Must be the same tread
pattern as OLYMPIC TROJAN ALL PURPOSE LUG or the
GOODYEAR SUPER ROAD LUG 11 (2).
See photo.....>>>>>>
Contact:
John 0408 054 622

FOR SALE
M151A2 (Mutt) 1974
Original condition with ROPS and working
PRC 77 radio installation.
Well maintained, used weekly and full NSW
rego to August 2020

Asking $25,000
Contact :
Bill Etheridge 0455 958 165

“Rough Tracks” - AMVCS Newsletter Page 23

 FOR SALE
Bren Carrier parts
Carrier Suspension Set including:-
Cross shaft with cam follower bearing clamps
Cam plate – poor condition
Two bogie wheel suspension assemblies including return rollers
Two rear wheel suspension assemblies
Two front wheels, hull mounting brackets & adjusting levers
Eight wheels with rubber intact, but very hard
All in good restorable condition
$4800

Contact: Ian Hall

P: 0427 308 604
E: idhall@bigpond.com

ENTRY FORM
For the
2020 Corowa Swim-In
& Military Vehicle Gathering
is attached to the end of this
newsletter.

Please note there are 3 pages to the

form as KVE are giving participants
the option of ordering special
number plates to celebrate the
40th anniversary of the event.

The proposed Corowa Swim-In book has

been cancelled due to limited response.
More details in the next issue of KVE News

Page 24
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