The Newsletter of the

Australian Ex Military Vehicle

Collectors Society
Celebrating 47 years 1975—2022

“PRESERVING YESTERDAY,
TODAY,
FREE FOR TOMORROW”
OFFER

ROUGH TRACKS SEPTEMBER

2022

THE AMVCS NEWSLETTER

Monthly Meetings
Are held at Ashfield RSL
374 Liverpool Rd, Ashfield NSW
2131
On the second Wednesday night
of each month at 20.00Hrs.
THERE IS NO MEETING IN
JANUARY or MARCH Picture: Alex Santana’s RAAF CJ5 at the
Clarendon Classic See page 8.
 Page 2 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

THE 2021-22 A.M.V.C.S. COMMITTEE

P.O. Box 221 Gladesville NSW 2111 www.facebook.com/amvcsinc

President Vice President Treasurer Public Relations

Max Mann Annual Awards Acting Minutes Vehicle Inspector
(H) 02 9522 6039 Bill Sjoblom Secretary Ron King
(M) 0416 214 076 (M) 0408 205 500
(M) 0438 522 602 John Gordon Email:
Email: max205 Email: billsjoblom (H) 02 9449 1198
@optusnet.com.au AMVCSPublicrelations
@optusnet.com.au (M) 0411 868 745 @outlook.com
Email: jgor9364@
bigpond.net.au

CMC Delegate Club plate Registrar

Newsletter Editor Vehicle Inspector
Anne Dignam
Brett Nicholls Alt.CMC Delegate
(M) 0473 401 562 John Oldenmenger
Email: Email: (M) 0425 253 253
Brett_Tracey2 annezane@hotmail.com Email: dutchtruckie
@hotmail.com
@bigpond.com Mailing address:
P.O.Box 4139
Londonderry NSW 2753

Vehicle Inspector Website Administrator Quarter Master ANZAC &

Shane Mitchell Carol Alexander Military events
Bruce McCann Co-ordinator
Email: Shane_boss302 (M) 0414 766 521
@live.com email: ragtimes Allan Hirschel
@bigpond.net.au (M) 0415 219 777
Email: Vk2vec
Private Members Only Facebook group @gmail.com
Australian Ex Military Vehicle Collectors Society Inc. AMVCS
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1884476515053545/ General Disclaimer: The opinions and
 Please ensure you answer all the questions. views expressed by contributors to “Rough
Public Facebook Page Tracks” newsletter are not necessarily those
AMVCS- Australian Ex Military Vehicle Collectors Society Inc. of the Editor and/or the Management Com-
https://www.facebook.com/amvcsinc mittee of the Australian Ex Military Vehi-
cle Collectors Society Inc.
 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 3

MINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING OF THE AMVCS Inc.

Wednesday 14 September 2022
Ashfield RSL ANZAC Room
Prepared by: John Gordon, Acting Minutes Secretary

Meeting opened: 20.00

Present: Committee - 5; Members - 15; Visitors – Marie Mann, Jodie Somers.
Apologies: Anne Dignam, Br ett Nicholls, Paul Sansom, David Taylor , Mick J er icevich, Peter Pether .
Welcome: Max Mann
Declarations of interest: Nil
Minutes of Previous meeting: Minutes of the 10 August 2022 Gener al Meeting wer e appr oved as a cor r ect
record.
Moved: Al Hir schel Seconded: Tony Playle Carried
Matters arising from Minutes: none

President’s Report: Max Mann

To coin a phrase used by our Editor Brett Nicholls, I feel the “COVID-19 mist ” is slowly lifting. Members are
more confident in attending events. Last month was a busy one for AMVCS members. The weekend 13/14 Au-
gust saw 2 events occur. Bathurst Remembers World War II and Long Tan Day at Springwood. AMVCS must
thank the Bathurst District Historical Society for putting on such an excellently presented display. This exhibition
included World War II vehicles, reenactors, Damien Parer’s photos, displayed by Saint Stanislaus College plus
interesting talks and memorabilia. For those who did not attend Bathurst, you missed a very wet, very cold and
very muddy weekend. Congratulations to the campers for surviving the weekend. When the rain eased momen-
tarily, there was great interest in the vehicles. Despite the weather, it was an enjoyable experience to participate in
this important, much postponed event. The Winter Rally Report by Ron King and Dutchy’s Report on the
Springwood Long Tan Day will be presented verbally at the meeting tonight.
Last Sunday 11/9, many of us ventured to Bowral to visit Vinh Tran’s Military Museum. What a great day! It
was so good to see many members attending. Visitors included Ron’s wife, Linda, and Trish Etheridge. Trish is
the wife of Bill Etheridge, an AMVCS member, who has moved to Bowral. John Borges’ wife was also attend-
ing. Thank you, Ron, for organising the trip, Tom Rolfe for leading us to Bowral and to Vinh for hosting us all.
Hope to see as many members as possible at Clarendon. Thanks, Dutchy for coordinating this event.

Correspondence: John Gordon

In: MJ CQ Command Reconnaissance Magazine; VMVC Dispatches Magazine; Shannon ’s Auction Cata-
logue.
Out: Nil

Treasurer’s Report: John Gordon

1.Cash at Bank & Investment
Term Deposit –Westpac (interest $1.09 renewed to 11/11/2022) $ 6,158.54
Main Bank Account – Westpac $ 8,059.33
Total Cash & Investment $14,217.87

2. Main Bank Account

C/B 10/8/2022 $ 7,482.72
+ Deposits $ 920.00
- Payments $ 343.39
O/B 14/9/2022 $ 8,059.33

3. Deposits include: member subscriptions ($905.00), merchandise ($15.00). Total =$920.00

4. Payments by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT.): postage ($39.50), newsletters ($286.99), meeting exp.
($12.90), stationery ($4.00). Total = $343.39.

Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report

Moved: Rob Alexander Seconded: J ohn Somer s Carried
Continued over.....
 Page 4 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

Membership: John Gordon

Zane Dignam, Ray Green, and Bill Jones have applied to join AMVCS and have been appr oved by the
Management Committee. The Management Committee seeks the members endorsement for these applicants.
Moved: Peter Mountfor d Seconded: Al Hir schel Carried

Governance: John Gordon

Our independent accountant, Peter Mitchell, has completed the audit of our YE 30/6/2022 Financial Statements.
Our tax agent, member Neil Cameron Smith, has completed the tax return. Thanks to both Peter and Neil for
their work in supporting the Club.
The Management committee has resolved to hold the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday 9 Novem-
ber immediately following the r egular Gener al Meeting.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank Ken Whyte for taking on the role of Minutes Secretary for the 2021-2022
year and wish him and Raquel well as they enjoy an extended European holiday. By resolution of the Manage-
ment Committee, I will take on the role of Acting Minutes Secretary until the elections at the November AGM.

Public Relations Officer’s Report: Ron King

I hope everyone is doing well and starting to enjoy the better weather we have been having. As reported to me
and in the previous Newsletter, Long Tan day at Springwood went well. The Winter Rally (Trek) was affected
by a late change of dates and closure of National Parks, but the event was still held.
The Vinh Tran’s Sunday run to Bowral was well attended and the sunny weather was enjoyed by all. For Sun-
day, 2 October, the AMVCS has an invitation to attend the Annual Goulburn Lilac City Festival. This is for
jeeps only, please contact organiser Alan Shepherd. I believe we have at least 10 vehicles attending the street
parade and display already! On Saturday 8 October, the AMVCS has been invited to Wedderburn Airport.
There is an open day of the light aircraft/sports aircraft, hangers and other displays. Russ Johnson is the contact
if you are interested. The Menangle Steam and Machinery Museum at first cancelled the 15/16 October public
open days due to wet grounds. I am now informed that it is still being held, though with restrictions. These re-
strictions may involve possible camping on the roads instead of the grass and limited vehicle movements, de-
pending on ground conditions. In view of these circumstances, we have decided to cancel this event in our
“Upcoming Manoeuvres”. We shall attend the next “Open Day”.

Our Christmas Party was to be held at the Menangle Steam and Machinery Museum, however, due to various
problems, it is now to be held after a shortened December General Meeting at Ashfield RSL on Wednesday 14
December. This ar r angement is similar to last year ’s successful function held under COVID-19 restrictions.
At the time of writing, the Clarendon Classic Truck and Machinery day will have just been finished and I am
sure a report will be included in the Newsletter. I have heard we had a good turnout of members. On 23 October,
the Land Rover Expo at Clarendon showground will be held. If you want to attend, you will need to get an entry
form online and its $10.00 per head entry. On 29 October, we have arranged a run to Wollondilly Museum and
Heritage Centre with a run to Burragorang lookout. Anne Dignam is the person to contact about that run. Enjoy
yourselves!

Registrar’s Report: John Oldenmenger

Over the last month we have accepted two new vehicles, a Humvee, and a 6x6 Perentie Land Rover. Apart from
that, the normal registration renewals and inspections continue. What I really would like to point out to mem-
bers is the following:
Your RMS 1259 form, the Historic Vehicle Declaration, is an official government document, please treat it like
that. Fill your section (section 1) out, and the rego number, (plate number), do not fill out the vehicle details, I
will do that, and definitely don't put question marks against any of the details requested. In a case like that, I
have to re do the form, the RMS/Services NSW office will reject it, guaranteed, and rightly so. Any members
with questions regarding Conditional Registration should contact me for further advice.
General Business:
Carol Alexander advised the new Club Caps ar e now in stock. The quality fr om the new supplier is excel-
lent.
John Gordon on behalf of Brett Nicholls r eminded member s of an invitation to submit ar ticles and/or
photographs for inclusion in the Rough Tracks Magazine.
Meeting Closed: 21.10

Next General Meeting: Wednesday 12 October 2022

 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 5

UPCOMING
Manoeuvres
Event Status Month Date Event Details Addt'l. comments Contact Details
Invitation October 2 Goulburn Event AMVCS has been invit- Register with Alan Shepherd 0408 257 579 or
Only Jeeps and similar ed to this event in Goul- John Gordon 0411 868 745
vehicles only burn Sunday only of jgor9364@bigpond.net.au
October long weekend
This is a Club Sanctioned event
S Oct 8-9 Wedderburn Wedderburn Air- Register with Russ Johnson 0438 130 641
Airfield Fly In field Lot 65 Lysaght
Day Rd Wedderburn
S Oct 15- Steam Day Campbelltown Oil Register with Russ Johnson 0438 130 641
16 Weekend and Steam Museum
86 Menangle Rd
Menangle
S Oct 23 Land Rover Clarendon Race- Register with Ruth Milne Mbl: 0455 505
Expo course Clarendon 156 Email: ruthmilne@bigpond.com
Tickets must be pre-
cooked $10 entry Tickets: landroverexpo.com.au
S Oct 29 Burragorang Social Day out Meet Trip run by Keith Adams Bookings for
Lookout and Burragorang Look- Museum via Anne Dignam 0473 401 562
Wollindilly out 9.30am go onto annezane@hotmail.com numbers required
Heritage Centre Museum $10 entry for catering purposes by 20th October
and Museum including morning
tea and extra $4
BBQ lunch. All
welcome
S Nov 3-6 Clarence Town Williams River Hol- Register with Craig Olsen Mob: 0438 490
Swim In iday Park 98 981 Blair Olsen Mob: 0438 483 154
Durham Street Clar- Camping book direct Williams River
ence Town Holiday Park Ph: 02 4996 4231
S Nov 12- Wings Over Il- Albion Park Airport Register with Ron King: Mbl: 0408 205
13 lawarra 500 Email: AMVCSPublicRela-
tions@outlook.com

S Dec 14 Christmas Party Ashfield RSL Contact Max Mann 02 9522 6039
- after general max205@optusnet.com.au
meeting
S 2023 13- Corowa Swim Ball Park Caravan www.corowaswim-in.org contact Jan
March 19 In Park Corowa Thompson Creamer 0412 078 096
kveinc@optusnet.com.au
S April 21- Ironfest 2023 Lithgow Show- Register with Ron King Mbl: 0408 205
23 Theme: Gothic ground Friday 3pm- 500 Email: AMVCSPublicRela-
6pm Saturday tions@outlook.com Please note this is a
9am-6pm Sunday popular event and will book out fast
9am-4pm Camping
onsite allowed
S April 22- Hunter Valley Maitland Register with Ken Whyte Mbl: 0418 260
23 Steamfest 013 Email: jeepmad16@optusnet.au
Page 6 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

From John “Dutchy” Oldenmenger

Annual inspection is now due for the following. Make a booking with Dutchy on 0425 253 253.
If no reply please leave a message and I will get back to you.
If you have problems contacting John Oldenmenger, contact Max Mann: max205@optusnet.com.au or
0438 522 602

The following members registrations are due shortly:

OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Tony Banks Les Bell Phillip Delbridge
John Borges John Gordon Mick Jericevich
Jim Caldwell Mick Jericevich Brendon Lynn
Mick Jericevich Peter Kunz Dennis McLaughlin
Peter Kunz Lachlan Matthews Peter Milne
Max Mann Shane Mitchell Bill Sjoblom
Lachlan Matthews Mark Weltner Hans Sprangers
Shane Mitchell Ken Whyte
John Oldenmenger
Peter Pether
Fred Reeves
Anthony Shorten
Dennis Taylor

CHRISTMAS PARTY
We shall be holding our December monthly General meeting at Ashfield RSL on De-
cember 14 at the earlier time of 7pm followed by our Christmas Party. The RSL will
cater a 9 selection finger food menu. The cost will be $15 per
head. Please register your interest with Max Mann [Home
phone (02) 9522 6039; m: 0438 522 602, or email
max205@optusnet.com.au.

We look forward to celebrating the Christmas season with you.

 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 7

Colour Legend : S - Sanctioned Event is registered via Registrar in Club Logbook

NS - Non-Sanctioned Event is on your personal 60-day logbook
TBD - To Be Determined

Cancelled

ALL EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO COVID –19 LAST MINUTE CHANGES

IT IS ADVISED TO BOOK AND CONTACT BEFORE ATTENDING ALL EVENTS
During COVID-19 organisers who have provided a COVID-19 Safety Plan will be Sanctioned Events once
passed by Committee
ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS:
IF YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE ON THE CALENDAR PLEASE CONTACT
RON KING Mob: 0408 205 500 OR EMAIL: AMVCSPublicRelations@outlook.com

1st Sunday of the Coffee and Starts 7.00 – Carpark behind Crispy Cream Donuts
Month Cars Penrith 7.30am onwards Address: 123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith

1st Sunday of the Coffee and Starts 7.00- St Ives Showground 450 Mona Vale Rd, St Ives
Month Cars St Ives 7.30am onwards

2nd Sunday of the Café Hartley Starts 9.30am Carpark of Café Hartley.
Month onwards Please Address: 2430 Great Western Hwy, Hartley
check Facebook
Hartley Coffee
and Cars for up-
dates
2nd Sunday of the Coffee and Starts 7am- Carpark of Dan Murphy’s/Services NSW/Shops
Month Cars 7.30am onwards Address: Entry West Market St Carpark or
Richmond East Market St Carpark, Richmond.

3rd Sunday of the Cars and Starts 7am on- Nutrition Station Rouse Hill.
Month Coffee wards Address: Kiosk 1/ 4-6 Commercial Road, Rouse Hill
Breakfast
Rouse Hill

4th Sunday of the Coffee and Starts 7am - Pitstop Café, Old Windsor Holden Site, Macquarie St, Windsor
Month Cars 7.30am onwards
Windsor

COFFEE AND CARS MEETINGS (Various Locations) NON-SANCTIONED EVENTS

Note: Due to COVID-19, advise to check Facebook Pages for updated information on events .
 Page 8 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

Clarendon Classic Truck Show

John Oldenmenger
The Sydney Antique Machinery Club and Bruce Gunter put on a
marvelous event after 2 years of cancellations arising from COVID-
19 and weather restrictions. There were over 400 Kenworth trucks
in attendance. Bruce unveiled his Kenworth after a 9-year restora-
tion and flew the previous owner, Max Keough, from America. A
lovely dinner Friday and Saturday nights was hosted by the Sydney
Antique Machinery Club. There were plenty of trucks, steam and jet
engine, tractors, wood splitting displays and, of course, military ve-
hicles! Nick Stuart br ought along his lar ge WWII sear chlight to
add further interest to the AMVCS display. Eddy and I arrived Fri-
day morning with the Saurer and the generator trailer. We allowed
room for the searchlight; unhooked the trailer; went back to get the 1 ton box trailer; followed by the Volvo and
semitrailer for the display at the Western Sydney Truck Club; returned again for the Willys fire jeep. Several
other members turned up with more vehicles, and after dinner, I went to my work to pick up a Kenworth for that
part of the display. After that was done, (about 21.45) I joined the others for a few cool stories and some jokes
around the campfire. Saturday morning, we hooked Mark's 6x6 Blitz onto the generator trail, which made a per-
fect combination from that era. More members turned up, and we ended up with a great variety of vehicles.
Everybody had a great time. At night we had an enjoyable dinner again provided by the Sydney Antique Ma-
chinery Club. This was followed by more cool stories around the camp site. Apart from a little shower, it was a
great day. Sunday too was a great day, with strong public support for our display. All in all, another successful
and memorable event, and a great effort from all the members that turned up.
Sunday night we had everything returned by 20.30 and it was
feeding time with a great look back at the weekend. A big thank
you must go to the Sydney Antique Machinery Club Inc
(SAMCI) members for providing two excellent dinners, and the
organisers of the event.
We had strong numbers in attendance over the 2 days. Thanks to
everyone who came out on a weekend with many other events
in town. Members attending with their families and friends in-
cluded: Rob Alexander & friend Alf Johnston; John Borges;
Glenn Burne & Elisha Thompson; Barry Caesar; Anne Dignam;
Charlie Dimech & friend; Eddie Greiger; John Gordon; Allan
Hirschel; Peter Kunz Snr; Peter Kunz Jnr; Max Mann; Darcy& Susan Miller; Ruth, Peter, Robert, Rachel, Anna-
belle & Lachlan Milne; Peter Mountford; John Oldenmenger; Steve Pascall & sons; Peter Pether; Tony Playle;
Eric Rojas; Matthew Sayers; Alex, Maria, Brian, Emilia & Katalina Sentana; Anthony & Janice Shorten; John
Somers; Nick & Lynn Stuart; Dennis Taylor; Colin & Mandy Webb; Mark Weltner; Andrew Zurek & Andrew
Jnr.

There was a huge number and variety of vehicles over the weekend including: Pinzgauer 4x4; Saurer; Blitz;
Mitsubishi Jeep; Humvee; Land Rovers; regular WWII Jeeps; WWII jeep trailer; Kubelwagen; Bikes; Stu-
debaker US6s; Chevy staff car; and even some camo lawn mowers!
* Photographs courtesy of Anne Dignam and John Gordon
A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 9
 Page 10 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

Sunday Run to Bowral

Ron King

On Sunday 11 September, a beautiful sunny day, a group of

AMVCS members and friends drove to Bowral to visit a fellow
military vehicle enthusiast, Vinh Tran. Vinh operates a Viet-
namese café at Bowral as well as a small museum including a
collection of military vehicles owned by him and his friends.
The Museum is located near the centre of Bowral. Vinh has op-
erated the Museum oriented to the Vietnam War for about ten
years in support of vets through raising money from Museum
visits and adventure rides in his various, operating military ve-
hicles. The Museum also provides a safe meeting place for vet-
erans.

The weather was perfect as I left Nowra for a scenic drive through the mountains of the Kangaroo Valley in my
Austin Champ. This was the longest run I have given the old girl since I have owned it and it had taken a bit of
work to get some sort of reliability into the vehicle. I am happy to say it ran like a sewing machine all day and
no oil leaks and that’s saying something for an old piece of Pommie over-engineering. I arrived about 10
minutes before the Sydney-siders showed up after following Tom Rolfe in his Dodge Weapons Carrier from
Pheasants Nest. Other club members and friends were showing up until mid-day. I am happy to say there were
too many faces and names to write here, refer the group photos for some of those who were in attendance.

Due to the location of Vinh’s Museum, it was also a great day for
everyone to check out the local eateries and nearby shopping. Some
photos were taken, information and stories exchanged. One of our
younger members Wayne Lu, has been putting in some time helping
to restore a Studebaker US6, 6x6 chassis for Vinh and appears to be
doing a great job. After the visit to the Museum, most club members
headed off to other attractions in the local area before heading
home. Some of us did the climb in our vehicles, up to Mt Gibraltar
to Jellore Lookout and then made our way home. I thought there
would be too little to see and do there, but the feedback I received
from everyone was very positive.
Pictured for L to R: John Gordon, Ron
Now we know what is there and what to expect, we can work with King, Tom Rolfe, Linda King, Peter
Vinh and maybe do another trip, check out other possible sites in Mountford, Max Mann, Peter Milne,
the area in a future trip. I hear there is a distillery at Joadja. Per- Glenn Cairncross and Barry Caesar.
haps a weekend trip, camp Saturday night at Joadja, and those fit
enough, visit to Vinh at Bowral on he Sunday.
I will advise further details as we
plan this trip for 2023.

*Photographs courtesy of
Ron King and John Gordon.

Pictured left: Peter Milne and

Tom Rolfe .
 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 11

AMVCS Winter Rally (Trek) 2022

Ron King
Our run this year almost didn’t happen. We had a late change of dates due
to the Bathurst Remembers WWII and the Springwood Long Tan events
picking the same date after the Winter Rally date had been set. So, it was
just a few vehicles attended this year’s event. The weekend was used to try
and get a feel for what can be done differently with future Winter treks due
to changes in our National Parks and camping conditions. We also visited
Mal McMahon and his collection of tanks and other inter esting stuff.
Mal is extremely helpful, friendly with a wealth of local knowledge.
Thankyou Mal for letting us visit and enjoy your company. Our normal
Winter camping areas and the whole Abercrombie National Park was closed as were just about every other Na-
tional Park in the area, due to landslides, high rivers and wet grounds. Many key roads were also closed. The
plan was to explore the Jenolan State Forest and surrounding area. I was keen to find Longarm Creek as a camp-
ing spot, fantastic if snowing, though it does not have the same feel as
camping areas in the Abercrombie. Vehicle troubles slowed our timetable.
Peter Milne’s Land Rover Lightweight was getting a bit of tonsilitis in
the carby. We did get to a place called Gibraltar Lookout on the Gibraltar
fire trail and got a feel of what is around the area. The lookout was perfect
for morning tea and spectacular views over the Coxs River with an interest-
ing little track getting to it. Roads through the State Forests are excellent,
but in the National Parks surrounding them are black soil and in poor condi-
tion and most likely too tight for larger vehicles to negotiate. After myself
and Jim O’Connell found our selves modifying our vehicles by gr azing
the same tree, resulting in much use of the winch! A great weekend in a new
area for this event. We still need to explore this area in civie vehicles in drier times for future treks.

1942 Period cartoon from Dr Seuss goes to War. Courtesy of John Gordon.
Page 12 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

Period advert courtesy of editor.

 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 13

Mystery Object
John A. Gordon
To my surprise, Mystery Object No. 11 attracted an almost
immediate response when the Rough Tracks magazine was
released. Wayne Lu and Peter McNeill were very much “on
the ball” when they virtually, simultaneously identified the
object as a Japanese WWII “last ditch” ceramic fragmen-
tation hand grenade. I will call it a tie!

By late 1944 and early 1945, American, long-range, strategic

bombing with the B29 Superfortress heavy bomber, and na-
val blockades, had severely depleted Japan’s manufacturing
capacity and supply of raw materials.
As a substitute for steel to make hand grenades, the Imperial
Japanese Navy Technical Bureau developed a design for an inexpensive, easily made, fragmentation hand gre-
nade made of heavy ceramic. Industrial kilns previously famous for the production of traditional, high quality,
Japanese pottery and ceramics such as Arita, Bizen and Seto were pressed to make large quantities of vessels for
the ceramic grenades. These were filled with explosives and fitted with a rubber cover and a simple fuse (not
present on my example) to allow the grenade to be set off. The vessels come in a variety of shapes, sizes and
colours depending on the kiln from which they were manufactured. Shown in the photograph left to right: Late
War ceramic grenade; practice (dummy) grenade; Type 97 grenade; Type 98 knee mortar round; 7.7mm Type
92 machine gun rounds.

Mystery Object No. 12

This object is a rear right, quarter panel for a WWII military vehicle. I am seeking the first, most correct submis-
sion that addresses the make, model and year/s of manufacture for the vehicle this original panel is from.

The winner will receive their choice of either a Club Pennant, Number Plate Topper (or Footer), or Club Cap.
To make things fair for members who receive hard copy Newsletters, the first correct and complete answer from
a mailed Newsletter member, will also receive the same prize. Answers can be provided by email, phone or
post. Good luck!
 Page 14 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

Book Review
John A. Gordon
This month, I cover a newly released reference book entitled “Ford GPW Restoration Standards 1942 to
1945” by Michael Wright. As a Ford GPW enthusiast, I have been looking forward to the release of this book
and it certainly lived up to expectations. By way of background, many members will be aware that during
WWII, there were three companies involved in the manufacture of the WWII “jeep”:
American Bantam Car Company of Butler Pennsylvania, who pr oduced the fir st “Pilot” jeep followed
by early production variants the BRC60 (Bantam Reconnaissance Car), and the BRC40 totalling approx-
imately 2,600 units before production ceased in favour of the “Standardised” jeeps from Willys Overland
and Ford.
Willys-Overland Motors who pr oduced a pr ototype called the “Quad”, followed by the Willys MA
(Model A) ear ly pr oduction var iant of which appr oximately 1,550 units wer e manufactur ed.
Ford Motor Company who pr oduced a pilot pr ototype called the “Pygmy”, followed by an early pro-
duction variant called the “Ford GP” (G – Government contact; P – vehicle with a wheelbase of 80
inches) of which approximately 4,456 were manufactured.
In July 1941, a contract was awarded to Willys Overland Motors to manufacture the “Standardised” jeep based
on the Willys MA, modified to incorporate the best features from the Ford GP and the Bantam BRC40. This ve-
hicle become known as the Willys MB (Model B). In total, approximately 361,000 Willys MBs were produced
during WWII at their Toledo Ohio manufacturing plant.
In October 1941, the Ford Motor Company was asked to make a licensed version of the Willys MB which
would be called the “Ford GPW” (G – Government contract; P – vehicle with a wheelbase of 80 inches; W –
Willys design). A total of approximately 278,000 Ford GPWs would be manufactured/assembled by Ford’s 6
plants across the USA between January 1942 and July 1945.
For many owners, restoring a jeep to be as accurate as time, budget and availability of suitable parts, will allow
is a key objective. For enthusiasts or “rivet counters” it is particularly important to understand what are the cor-
rect parts for the Ford GPW they own in “getting the details right”. Many small, detail changes occurred over
the 4 years of manufacturing and in the phasing of changed features across the different Ford plants. Even if one
isn’t into such detail, this book will still be relevant as it is easy when replacing parts and/or restoring a GPW to
know what is correct so as to preserve the vehicle’s originality.
The book results from several years of painstaking research into original Ford factory documents, photographs,
observation of what are extant “original” vehicles, and consultation with a wide range of knowledgeable jeep
aficionados. In this regard, member Ian Fawbert is noted in the acknowledgements. The book contains a wealth
of detail set out in a logical order. Descriptions are supported by clear, colour photographs of original GPWs and
Ford parts. The author acknowledges that whilst this book represents an advance in available knowledge of
Ford GPWs, new information is continually coming to hand and as such, guidance in this and in other books
will continually need to evolve. For the present, this is
one of the most accessible and authoritative texts on
the Ford GPW in print to date. The book is a paper-
back consisting of 291 pages printed on quality paper
stock and is profusely illustrated with hundreds of
clear, colour photographs. It was published in 2022 by
the Military Vehicle Preservation Association
(MVPA) of the U.S.A., ISBN978-0-938242-29-1 and
is available from them online.
Highly Recommended, for all WWII jeep owner s,
particularly those with Ford GPWs!
N.B., I have no relationship with the author and/or
publisher and have provided this information as a
starting point for members who may wish to acquire
or borrow a copy.
Happy reading!

* Shown in the photograph are several new old stock (“NOS”) Ford parts. Whilst these can still be found, they
are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. Quality reproduction parts, some of which are accurately
marked with Ford or “F” logos, are available as acceptable substitutes when restoring your GPW e.g., refer the
advertisements for parts in this magazine).
 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 15

Signal from S.A.

John A. Gordon
Phil Rider was the fir st Pr esident of AMVCS way back in May 1975. Phil now lives in beautiful Victor
Harbor in South Australia. He retains an active interest in the Club and often sends in material for the magazine
and our archives from his records and contemporary news stories. Recently our Club Vice President, Bill Sjob-
lom, was on a wor k assignment in S.A. and paid a visit to his long-term mate, Phil at his Sunday Market stall
where he sells a variety of desirable artifacts for collectors of tools, militaria and other memorabilia. Bill told me
he initially kept his hands in his pockets to avoid the temptation to be persuaded by Phil’s masterful skills in
salesmanship. Nevertheless, Bill succumbed and purchased a bargain object he always wanted at a special,
weekend discount from Phil! Set out below are some recent submissions from Phil, our S.A correspondent.

Comic Book Heroes

A few months ago, I reviewed a book that covered the history of English
WWII comic books. Phil was inspired to send in a comic from his collection
dating to June 1981. Apart from the covers which are in colour, it features
several stories in glorious black and white with evocative titles including:
“Charley’s War”; “Darkies Mob”; “Fighting
Mann”; and “Grenadier Attack!”.
Windscreen
This excellent magazine from December
1992, is published by the Military Vehicle
Trust of Britain. The Trust and magazine con-
tinues to this day. It covers several, high qual-
ity articles on British military history includ-
ing vehicles. In particular, there is an article
covering the decisive battle of El Alamein in
North Africa, where the British led forces defeated the experienced, German Afri-
ka Corp. some 80 years ago in October, 1942. I had the opportunity to visit this
area with my family in 2004. It was very moving to visit the site of past battle-
fields of a vast scale, and to reflect in quiet contemplation at the Commonwealth
and German War Cemeteries.
Jeeps for Sale
The advertisement for WWII jeeps for sale dating to March 1951, illustrates
how popular the jeeps and other military vehicles were post WWII in an econo-
my starved of vehicles. Many businesses set up to purchase ex-military vehicles
and retail them to the public. My 11/1943 Ford GPW was auctioned at Moore-
bank by the Army in December, 1961. I believe the last jeep was sold in 1962.
A good friend told me of a farmer mate who travelled to Sydney to buy a jeep
from a Sydney City retailer like this one. He knew little about jeeps. When con-
fronted with a vast yard full of ex- Army jeeps, he made his selection based on
the vehicle with the least amount of wear on the foot pedals, figuring that would
be a good indicator of past use and overall condition.

Early EV Adopter
This photo taken in 2006 at
Corowa, shows Phil on the
scooter and some of his ma-
tes. The electric scooter was
used by late member, Dave
Brown to move about the
campsite. L to R: the late
Don Campbell, Dave
Brown, Bruce McCann,
Phil and Dave?.
Page 16 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

QuArTER Pennant
$10
-MASTER
STORES
For members Pennant dimensions: 120mm drop x 240mm long.

Shirt
$40

Cap
$20

Available in Ladies, gents, s/sleeve, l/sleeve; refer

separate order form rear of newsletter.

Quartermaster:
Carol Alexander
Mb: 0414 766 521;
email: ragtimes@bigpond.net.au
Payment to Treasurer:
Cloth patch $5
John Gordon Mb: 0411 868 745;
Sticker $2
email: jgor9364@bigpond.net.au
Name badge $15
***NOTE: Postage extra where applicable.***
Metal pin $10

Plate
Toppers
$10 ea
A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 17
 Page 18 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

For Sale: A pr oject consisting of 2 X Studebaker US6 ex-Australian Army trucks. Truck 1, an early type with
close mounted front bumper and original, early timber back. This truck is complete with original data plates, mini-
mal rust and it runs. Truck 2 is a later model with steel tray back. Also included are original tray folding seats and
hood bows in very good condition. Truck is complete with original data plates. $10,000 for the pair. Contact John
Gordon 0411 868 745

For Sale:1944 For d Ar my J eep GPW The J eep is in excellent condition. Always been looked after i.e. ser vic-
ing, repairs etc and garaged Registered under the Historic Vehicle Scheme, Currently insured for $52,500 Sale
Price- $41,500 Mike - Mob 0418611484

Jeep Trailer Aust.# 4 excellent condition, canvas cover , indicator s fitted, built by
Ford Motor Company 1945. Sale Price $2,750.00 Stored West Pennant Hills.
Also High Lift heavy duty Jack (never used) $150.00 Contact. David Taylor 0419 414
256.

For Sale: Studebaker US6. Runner . Genuine enquir ies only. Located in Har den
NSW . $6000. Call Barry McCormack on 02 6386 2386 or 0429 075 641

John Weeks makes these Pots (pictured right)

contact John Weeks Mob: 0407 300 552.

WANTED ADVERTS:
Wanted: GPW 8 leaf front springs. Complete packs, broken, flattened or worn or just individual leaves. Cash, Wil-
ly’s 8 leaf fronts or other parts to trade. Happy to buy or trade. Thanks, Ian. 0419 409 789.

Wanted: three (3) small tac sign holders 6" x 6" for a military Haflinger restoration.
contact: John Birrell (08) 86362333.
A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 19

*** When you buy from this supplier, please mention you saw the advertisement in AMVCS’s
‘Rough Tracks’ or on the Facebook site ***
 Page 20 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2

NEW STOCK ARRIVING SHORTLY OF THESE VERY POPULAR TYRES, SEVERAL CONTAINERS HAVE ALREADY
BEEN SOLD OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS.
THESE TYRES ARE MILITARY EMBOSSED AND THEY DO HAVE THE CORRECT DIMENSIONS FOR THEIR PAR-
TICULAR SIZES AS SOME OTHER BRANDS ON THE MARKET ARE UNDER SIZE.
600 X 16 $120
700 X 16 $140
750 X 16 $160
900 X 16 $220
750 X 20 $240
900 X 20 $280
ALSO ARRIVING SHORTLY, A 40FT CONTAINER FROM THE PHILIPPINES WITH BODY KITS AND OVER 600
OTHER ITEMS INCLUDING PANELS AND FUEL TANKS.
REAR BODY PANELS $295
FUEL TANKS $385
SIDE PANELS $325 EA
FUEL TANKS WELL $132
HOOD BOW ASSY $195
FRONT FLOOR ASSY WITH WELL AND TOP HAT CHANNEL $525
REAR FLOOR ASSY WITH RISER $325
FOR ALL ENQUIRES PLEASE CONTACT:
NEIL@MARATHONSPARES.COM.AU OR PHONE 02 6762 8666 OR 0411 864 988
PLEASE NOTE MARATHON SPARES IS THE MAJOR DISTRIBUTOR IN AUSTRALIA
FOR M.V.SPARES PRODUCTS.

*** When you buy from this supplier, please mention you saw the advertisement in AMVCS’s
‘Rough Tracks’ or on the Facebook site ***
A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 21

*** When you buy from this supplier, please mention you saw the advertisement in AMVCS’s
‘Rough Tracks’ or on the Facebook site ***
Page 22 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2
A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2 Page 23

23rd OCTOBER 2022

Page 24 A M V C S “ R O U G H T R A CK S ” S E PT E M BE R 2 0 2 2