Magazine of the BMW Drivers Club of South Australia Inc.
ISSUE 01 2024
Publisher
BMW Drivers Club of South Australia inc. (BMWDCSA) Reg. No A10387
Editorial Address
The Editor BMWDCSA PO Box 360, Glenside, SA 5065
All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the BMWDCSA. The Editor reserves the right to edit any material.
Submissions of any material constitutes permission to edit and publish that material. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the BMWDCSA unless stated as such. The Editor, authors and the BMWDCSA assume no liability for authenticity or correctness. The BMWDCSA does not recommend any individual establishment.
Advertising rates on application
Advertising enquiries
Secretary: secretary@bmwdcsa.org.au
The BMWDCSA reserves the right to refuse any advertisement without stating any reason.
Articles, Advertising Artwork, Classified Advertisements, and other materials should be addressed to the: editor@bmwdcsa.org.au
Trade Practices Act
We draw the attention of advertisers to the Trade Practices Act1974 and the provisions in the Act that apply to advertising.
The BMWDCSA cannot ensure that advertisements which are published in this issue comply with the Act and the responsibility must therefore be on the company or person submitting the advertisement for publication. Member of the International Council of BMW
clubs
BMWDCSA Inc. is a MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA Affiliated Car Club
BMW Drivers Club South Australia
The BMW Drivers Club of South Australia brings together BMW owners, drivers, and enthusiasts for social, technical and motorsport activities at all levels of participation. Hosting a broad range of events and providing access to the Conditional Historic Registration scheme.
The innovation and commitment to driver engagement in each new BMW model, is what excites us the most.
Our participation in club motorsport and a strong focus on club registration has revitalised our membership and grown our numbers. This has in turn allowed us to undertake larger events and deliver more value to our members
COVER PHOTO
BMWDCSA member –Scott Wood’s BMW 2002 Alpina on display at the clubs Annual Picnic at the National Motor Museum. Full article on page 11
Committee Members 2024
Craig FLORANCE CLUB PRESIDENT BMWCA DELEGATE & MOTORSPORT CO-ORDINATOR president@bmwdcsa.org.au
Michael KEEN VICE PRESIDENT & EVENTS MANAGER vp@bmwdcsa.org.au
John McTIER CLUB SECRETARY & MEMBERSHIPS MGR secretary@bmwdcsa.org.au
Michael ALLEN TREASURER treasurer@bmwdcsa.org.au
Mike SUMMERS CONDITIONAL REGISTRATION MANAGER clubrego@bmwdcsa.org.au
Gerry MAVROGIANNIS COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA MANAGER communications@bmwdcsa.org.au
Club President update
Greetings members.
Happy New Year! Yes, August is the start of a new year for the club with our Annual General Meeting recently being held to elect new committee members as required, review our finances, analysis of the past year and presentation of the vision for the year ahead.
Many thanks to all those involved in getting this next edition of our Club magazine out – it is only as a result of a lot of work in the background that makes it happen.
You will recall that I recently put out a call for help to assist us with the day-to-day operations of the club and would like to thank those members that came forward to take on various roles. This is an ongoing need, so as always if you would like to get involved, please don’t hesitate to let us know what you can do to help your club.
I am pleased to report that with continuing strong membership growth, stable financials, and a transfusion of new committee members, we are continuing to address all of the things important to you as members.
In this edition you can read about some of the event highlights of the year, including the Annual Picnic Show and Shine. It was rewarding to see so many members come and join us for this event and everyone that came along had a great time. If you missed out or were unable to attend, make sure you keep an eye on the events calendar for what is coming up this year.
You can also read about the new benefits package for members from BMW, with exclusive discounts and offers available on the purchase of new vehicles. I have been working on some additional
Club President update
benefits for members relating to parts, accessories and servicing from our local BMW dealers which will be announced very shortly.
With our Events Manager Michael Keen pushing the pedal to the metal, the events calendar is full of loads of great events for us all to enjoy, so hopefully we will see you all at an upcoming event soon.
As always, if you have any suggestions or concerns over Club activities, please let me know and I’ll be happy to address anything you bring up – just email me at president@bmwdcsa.org.au
In the meantime – let’s get out together and enjoy the sheer driving pleasure and the BMW Club Lifestyle experience that our club is all about
Craig F lorance
COMMITTEE NEWS
From the editor
Welcome to the latest edition of The Grille, the magazine of the BMW Drivers Club of South Australia
Over four decades ago, a passionate group of BMW motoring enthusiasts congregated in Adelaide, laying the foundation for what would evolve into the BMW Drivers Club of South Australia. To commemorate this significant milestone, this edition of The Grille delves into the rich tapestry of our club’s history. Our feature article, ‘The Rear View Mirror’, aims to chronicle some of our most memorable events and accomplishments, with the hope of making it a regular fixture in our publication.
As outlined in the feature piece, as the editor, I find myself in possession of a treasure trove of photographs and documents from our past. Transitioning these invaluable records from their current paper format to electronic files is a task that lies ahead. Should any member be willing to lend their assistance in this endeavour, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
As always, your suggestions and feedback are invaluable to us. Please feel free to contact me at editor@bmwdcsa.org.au with any input you may have Wayne Williamson
Secretary & membership update
In 2024, the club faces new challenges, including managing a rapidly growing membership. The graph left shows a significant recent increase in new members, which is encouraging. It is expected that the club will surpass 500 members by the end of the year.
With Peter Duncan stepping down from his role as Secretary and Membership Manager due to an interstate transfer, John McTier has taken over these
POWERFUL. PERKS MADE
EXPERIENCE THE BENEFITS
Programme Benefits for BMW Drivers Club of South Australia:
Complimentary BMW Service Inclusive for 3 years or 60,000kms.* • Recommended dealer delivery reduced to $1,850 excluding taxes.~ • Benefits extended to your spouse or de-facto partner.
• Access to a dedicated • Corporate Sales Manager.
Standard BMW Benefits:
5 years unlimited kilometre warranty.• Access to BMW Genius.• BMW Roadside Assistance.
•Competitive finance rates across a range of products through BMW Financial Services.^
Ready to take it further? Contact your dedicated Corporate Sales Manager at your preferred BMW dealer. Alternatively, call 1800 635 758, or email corporate@bmw.com.au.
CONDITIONAL REGISTRATION UPDATE
The club is experiencing a surge in membership, with a considerable influx of new members. Presently, we boast a total of 490 members, among whom many have opted to include their 25+ year old cars in the SA historic registration system. Many of these new members have specifically joined for historic registration benefits, attracted by the wealth of knowledge possessed by experienced members, particularly regarding older BMW models.
Adrian Cavanagh, Tim Dixon, and Mike Summers consistently attend our Sunday morning gatherings, on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Sundays of every month. It’s worth noting that if you inform us ahead of other BMWDCSA events and one of us is present, we can validate logbooks if needed. Therefore, please keep an eye on your email and the BMWDCSA website for updates on upcoming events.
BMWDCSA Conditional Registration Member information reminders
1 When receiving your BMWDCSA membership renewal email each year, this is also a prompt for you to plan to attend one of the club rego events to get your logbook validated for the next membership year.
2 When renewing logbooks at the 3 year expiry (coinciding with membership renewal email and the purchase of new logbook), please send a copy of the latest Registration Certificate to allow us to update and check all our records prior to sending out your new logbook to clubrego@bmwdcsa.org.au
Secretary & membership update continued
responsibilities. John was appointed to this role at the Club’s AGM on August 14th, and it may take some time for him to fully acclimate to the complexities of the position. We kindly ask for your patience during this transition
If you’re reading our magazine for the first time and are not yet a member, it’s as easy as scanning the QR code which will take you to the membership page of the club website. Easy to do, follow the prompts, submit your application and membership fee and you’ll soon be on board.
Just a friendly reminder of the obligations and requirements when you have a vehicle on the South Australian historic registration scheme.
If the following are not adhered to, you could be guilty of driving without valid vehicle registration.
• Club membership must be maintained to keep registration current.
• The logbook must be dated and signed each day before using the vehicle.
• Only one logbook permitted per vehicle.
• The logbook must be checked and stamped by a CHRO annually, corresponding to your BMWDCSA membership renewal date.
• 90-day trip limit per year. Vehicle not to be used for hire or reward.
• You must cancel the registration if you sell the vehicle or if you cease to be a member of BMWDCSA
For further information concerning Conditional registration, please visit the club website or contact Mike Summers at clubrego@bmwdcsa.org.au
By Mike Summers
BMWDCSA - Life members award
At this year’s BMWDCSA Annual General Meeting, Peter and Allyson Duncan were honoured with lifetime membership in recognition of their unwavering support for the club. Peter and Allyson first joined the club in 2018 after relocating to South Australia from New South Wales. Peter’s extensive management experience quickly shone through during his participation in several club committee meetings, leading him to volunteer as both the club secretary and membership manager. His efforts have significantly benefited the club, notably by streamlining the membership database and handling the day-to-day secretarial duties.
Although Peter and Allyson have decided to return to New South Wales, their status as life members ensures that their commitment and affection for the club will remain steadfast
Motorsport update
Many thanks to Michael Myllynen for his tireless efforts and leadership as the club’s Motorsport Coordinator over the last couple of years. Unfortunately, Michael had to step back late last year to concentrate on building a new family home. In the meantime, Club President Craig Florance has been covering the responsibility of overseeing this vital role. Since Craig is already managing multiple critical duties within the committee, an opportunity exists for someone to take up the position and help lead our motorsport group. If you can help in this role and would like to find out more contact Craig at president@bmwdcsa.org.au
The motorsport group has been out on track again this year competing in 7 scheduled rounds of the 2024 BMWDCSA Cup Series. This year’s series is approaching the finish line flat out, with the final round being a TTM regularity scheduled for Sunday, November 3rd, at Mallala
BMW M cars co-ordinator update
BMW M cars co-ordinator was created in 2023 within the BMWDCSA, the primary role being to enhance the driving experience of all genuine ‘M’ vehicles drivers within the club. Michael Allen is the coordinator in this new role and he himself in the proud owner of a new M2.
Peter & Allyson Duncan being award Lifetime membership by the President - Craig Florance
Motorsport Park. Details for competitors and spectators are available on the club website events page. If you’re interested in Motorsport, mark this date on your calendar and come along to watch our club members in action. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with other enthusiasts and get advice on how to get involved in motorsport either as a competitor or an official
For further information about our motorsport programme, go to the club’s Motorsport webpage or email motorsport@bmwdcsa.org.au
The first planned spirited ‘M’ drive is to coincide with the ‘Sports Car Sunday’ event at the Waite Oval, Urrbrae, on the 3rd of November 2024
We are working on similar events in the future, so please ensure you monitor the clubs Events page for further information
Annual Picnic – Show & Shine 2024
Sunday, February 18th, 2024, the BMWDCSA once again thrilled attendees with an impressive showcase of members' vehicles at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood. Around 130 members joined in the festivities, which featured a 'Show & Shine' event, an exhibition of M or significant vehicles, live music, a coffee van, a BBQ lunch, and complimentary access to the Motor Museum.
The efforts of our committee members ensured that this day was a resounding success, with special recognition to Michael Keen, the event organizer, Craig Florance, the Club President, and Mike Greening and his team of volunteers who facilitated the 'Show & Shine' judging.
Throughout the morning, participants enjoyed exploring the National Motor Museum or indulging in the live entertainment provided by The Heidi and Herman Duo while savouring morning coffee beneath the shade of majestic gum trees courtesy of Belle-Air Coffee
The event boasted an impressive display of club 'M' or 'Significant vehicles,' 'Show & Shine' entries, and various individual club member vehicles for attendees to admire. Adding to the excitement, Glenelg BMW showcased the new M2. After a BBQ lunch, members basked in the shade on a tranquil Sunday afternoon, engaging in passionate discussions about all things BMW, encapsulated the essence of this annual highlight for the club.
By Wayne Williamson
Annual Picnic – Show & Shine 2024
This year's 'Show & Shine' attracted 22 vehicles competing across 7 distinct categories. The competition was fierce, with the standard of vehicles continually raising the bar, presenting a challenge for the judging panel. Ultimately, this year's champions were: -
• Class C Paul & Joanna Holmes F06 M6
• Class D Robert Daniell E93 335i
• Class F Tony Doyle E36 M3
• Class G Guy Modistach E30 318i
• Class I Scott Wood E10 2002 (cover photo)
• Class M Beverley Hewison R57 Mini Cooper
• Class R Rob Ephgrave E30 325i
Guy Modistach E30 318i
Tony Doyle E36 M3
Beverley Hewison R57 Mini Cooper
Paul Holmes F06 M6
Rob Ephgrave E30 325i
Robert Daniell E93 335i
The Rear View Mirror
By Wayne Williamson
Prologue
History is often likened to the view seen in a vehicle's rearview mirror while speeding along a country road. Objects close to the vehicle are clearly defined in shape, colour, and detail. However, as one looks further down the road, the countryside becomes vague and indistinct, until only major features are visible in the distance. Similarly, history is vividly remembered and recorded in recent events, while our distant past is often shrouded in innuendo, embellishments, or inaccuracies. Delving further back, apart from major events, ordinary facts become scarce, leaving researchers to speculate on what may or may not have occurred.
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the BMW Drivers Club of South Australia's establishment. To commemorate this milestone, the committee has assigned me the task of documenting the club's history before memories fade and inaccuracies creep in. The plan is to feature 'The Rear View Mirror' in each club magazine, showcasing past events, members, and achievements.
My journey commenced by consulting the club's Secretary, Peter Duncan, in February. From him, I obtained a treasure trove—a large plastic crate brimming with club photographs, magazines, and newsletters. Contemplating how best to utilize this wealth of material, I decided to start by chronicling the history of the Clubs Committee members. This initial step will pave the way for gathering oral histories from these individuals, shedding light on the club's myriad events and accomplishments over the past four decades. Once a comprehensive history is established, I will
proceed with scanning and archiving all existing club magazines, newsletters, and early photographs. Given the volume of documents, I anticipate this will be an ongoing task. If any member has free time and would like to assist with scanning photographs or documents, please don't hesitate to contact me at editor@bmwdcsa.org.au
The clubs first magazine in 1984 will soon be able to view via the clubs website for those members who wish to take a trip back in time bmwdcsa.org.au
The Rear View Mirror
dinner, Stirling Hotel 1985
History
The year is 1984 and BMW Group Australia had been officially marketing vehicles for the past 5 years in Australia. With the success of the JPS Team Australia in their 3.5 litre, 6-cylinder BMW 635 Csi, BMW sales were exploding and many of these new owners wanted to connect with liked minded enthusiast. Many owners within South Australia were registering as new members in BMW Club Australia which operated chapters, mostly on the Eastern Seaboard.
It was through the efforts BMW Drivers Club Australia, New South Wales Chapter President, John Comino that the South Australian Chapter initially was established. In his role, John had noticed the large number of South Australians joining his chapter. After discussions with Victorian Chapter President, Ken Lee, these two gentlemen perceived the need for South Australia to have its own Chapter.
David Williams at this time had just purchased a new BMW E21 323 sedan from Light Motors, Adelaide. Whilst
waiting to collect his new pride and joy, he picked up a magazine which happened to be from the BMW Drivers Club Australia, New South Wales Chapter. In the magazine was a contact number for their President, John Comino. In the years before email and text messaging, David rung John Comino, inquiring about joining the New South Wales Chapter. It was during this conversation that John suggested that perhaps it was time for South Australia to create their own Chapter.
The problem, however, was that David Williams didn’t know any other BMW owners/drivers and didn’t have the contacts to form a club. In January 1984, John Comino in one of his many visits to Adelaide dropped into Light Motors where he had one of many conversations with salesman, David Wilkinson. From this conversation, a few telephone calls to recent BMW owners was made and a meeting was conducted between John Comino, David Wilkinson, David Williams, Steven Thiele, Ian Thomas, Clyde McConaghy, and Brian Fancher at the Royal Park Hotel (Now the Hendon Hotel, Tapleys Hill Road, Royal Park). At this initial meeting, a steering committee was
Inaugural
formed with the purpose of creating a South Australian Chapter of the BMW Drivers Club of Australia
The first inaugural meeting for the club was conducted at the South Australian Automobile Chamber of Commerce, Greenhill Road, Wayville on the 18th of April 1984. 18 BMW owners attended this initial meeting of which 15 persons officially joined the club that night. The following office bearers were appointed on the night: -
President – David Williams
Vice President – Steven Thiele
Treasurer/Secretary – Phillip Hocking
Public Relations – David Wilkinson
Activities Director – Ian Thomas
A club constitution was drawn up and future events quickly planned. The BMW Drivers Club of Australia –South Australian Chapter was up and running. In 1986 the club changed from being a Chapter of the Australian Club to being an officially incorporated as a club in its own right, known as the BMW Drivers Club of South
Australia. (BMWDCSA) It is for this reason, that the club will celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2026
The clubs first event was a cruise to Strathalbyn on May 6th, 1984. Approximately 15 vehicles presented at ‘Eagle on the Hill’ before driving along the South-eastern freeway for a leisurely drive to Apex Park on the banks of the Angus River, Strathalbyn where the members enjoyed a picnic/BBQ.
The clubs second meeting was conducted on May 16th, 1984, at Max Hatherly’s North Adelaide Hotel in Tynte Street. The hotel was to become a regular club meeting point for the next few years. It was at this second meeting that a Motorsport Committee was formed under the leadership of David Furniss. Motorsport was to become an integral activity within the club for the next 40 years.
The third club meeting was held on the 6th of June 1984 at which the Victorian Chapter President of the BMW Drivers Club of Australia, Ken Lee attended to provide some helpful advice. By this period in the club, events were planned and membership started to grow.
From these humble beginnings, the club has continued to grow to a membership base of 490. Throughout the past 40 years, the club has experienced some highs and low and it is my expectation that over the course of the next year or two, I’ll shall have completed the researching and documenting of the club records and will be able to present a more detailed picture of our history.
At present, not all records have been preserved and documents for the years 1997 to 2012 are particularly scarce. If any member has any old newsletters/magazine or other documentation that can assist in identifying the committee members or significant events for these periods, then please drop me a line at EDITOR
1st Group Photo of club members - June 6th, 1984 - Strathalbyn
Melbourne, April 2427
BMW Clubs Australia Nationals 2025
Hosted By BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
ANZAC Day Long Weekend
April 2427
For more information, including a full schedule and WestWaters Hotel accommodation details, head to
This event proudly supportsPeter Mac. To help us raise vital funds, head to;
Thursday 24th April :
BMW Clubs Australia Nationals 2025
Hosted By
BMW Drivers Club Melbourne 24-27 April 2025 ANZAC Day Long Weekend
On-site trailer parking at Calder Park, with drop-off and pick-up available for the whole weekend
Check in to Westwaters Entertainment Complex
Event Registration
Meet and Greet at Melbourne BMW, cocktail style event, guest speakers and special cars on display
Friday 25th April:
Join us at the A ANZAC Day Dawn Service by the Lake
ANZAC Day Dawn Service by the Lake - 5 min walk, then
RSL Gunfire Breakfast at the resort
Short guided drive to have you back early to clean your car ready for the Show and Shine
Longer guided drive including lunch and late afternoon return
70's Themed Dinner and Trivia Night in celebration of the 3 series at Westwaters
S Saturday 26th April:
Super Sprints at the iconic Calder Park, National Circuit
Safety Car led laps of Calder Park full circuit Show and Shine also at Calder Park and displays celebrating 50 years of 3 Series and 50 Years of BMWMCCV
Formal Presentation Dinner at Westwaters
Sunday 27th April:
Farewell Brunch at Westwaters
Organised scenic drives back to Northern and Western borders, not just along the major highways.
Celebrations:
B BMW 3 Series: 50 years
BMW 8 Series: 35 years
BMW Motorcycle Club
Victoria will join us over the weekend to celebrate 50 years of the BMW Motorcycle Club in Victoria
Scan to go directly to the web site
Stay at Mercure WestWaters Caroline Springs
Luxury, resort-style accommodation with secure undercover parking, pool, gym & great facilities. 15% Discount off standard room rate.
Bookings: r reception@westwatershotel.com.au
Take time out to explore Melbourne city, bay-side and along the coast.
Take a casual drive around the F1 Australian Grand Prix circuit (public road)
Stay longer to drive Great Ocean Road or visit Philip Island.
Inquiries and more details, contact Jo Mawson Chair, Nationals Committee info@bmwclubnationals.com.au
Australia Day BMW Twilight Cruise - January 26th
To celebrate Australia Day, the BMWDCSA conduct it first cruise for the year. There were two separate starting points, one starting from the ‘Harvey Norman’ carpark, Marion Road, Marion and the other from the ‘District Outlet Centre,’ Main North Road, Parafield. The two separate cruises combined at the Donut Factory on the Taperoo foreshore, where members were able to consume a donut and coffee, whilst discussing all things BMW. A great turn out for the first event for the year.
Country Coffee Cavalcade –Sunday February 11th.
The clubs inaugural Country Coffee Cavalcade (CCC) was held on Sunday the 11th of February. Meeting at D’ose Coffee on Marion Road, Marion with the other members attending the clubs regular ‘Catch-up’ and Club Registration event, approximately eleven vehicles departed at 10 am to enjoy a leisurely drive through Clarendon, Kangarilla, McLaren Flat before finishing for a well-deserved brew at ‘Dawn patrol coffee’, Main Road, McLaren Vale.
The concept behind the CCC events is for members to come together at the regular ‘Catch-up’ events, but then
experience a short drive to partake in a coffee. These events are design for a short morning outing, ensuring you are home for lunch. For future planned CCC’s, please monitor the events page of the club’s website. https://www.bmwdcsa.org.au/events
Twilight Lawn Bowls –Friday March 8th.
To beat the heat of scorching March days, the club introduced a refreshing social activity: a Lawn Bowls trial.
Sixteen members attended Lockley’s Bowling Club on a rather warm Autumn night. Andrew Mair, one of our members (newly rejoined having just relocated back to SA from Queensland) showed us the basics of lawn bowls. A low steady roll of the bowl, considering the natural curve of the non-spherical shape is “all “it takes…..but getting your bowl nearest the target (a small white ball called the Jack) is not so easy.
Most of those attending had never been lawn bowling before so it was a great revelation and we had plenty of time to chat. After an hour or so we stopped to enjoy great local freshly cooked pizza accompanied by chilled beverages and naturally, the warm camaraderie of the club's greatest treasure—its members.
BMW M Garden at the Adelaide Motorsport Festival –16 to 17th March
The Adelaide Motorsport Festival took place at Victoria Park, Adelaide, over the weekend of March 16th and 17th, 2024. Continuing the tradition from previous years, BMWDCSA collaborated with Adelaide BMW to highlight a variety of club members' vehicles at the Adelaide BMW marquee. Several lucky club members had the privilege of spending the weekend as paid guests of Adelaide BMW, indulging in their amenities while soaking up the excitement trackside.
2024 McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic Festival – 14th of April
On a splendid Sunday, around ten club cars rolled into the Serafino winery on Kangarilla Road in McLaren Vale to partake in the 2024, McLaren Vale Vintage & Classic festival. Pulling up at just past 9 am, the club vehicles joined about 450 other entrants on the grounds of this scenic winery. For the next 2 hours, members were able to leisurely stroll among the displayed vehicles, whilst savouring morning coffee or bacon egg rolls. If you enjoyed classic cars, you were not going to be disappointed.
By 11 am, all vehicles began their departure from the winery grounds, parading along McLaren Vale's main street, where throngs of spectators eagerly awaited the procession. It was great to witness the community support for such an event. After the parade, all vehicles convened at their designated winery to share a meal among friends. This year, the BMWDCSA occupied the McLaren Vale Visitors Centre, shared with the Mercedes Club of South Australia. It was heartening to see new members relishing the event, and as introductions were made and experiences shared, time swiftly passed. Until next year’s event – mark this one in your diary’s folks!
Clayton Bay Cruise –Saturday 20th April 2024
On yet another picture-perfect day, the members which commenced at Hungry Jacks, Darlington and concluded at Pier 28, Clayton for lunch. Approximately 16 vehicles and some 30+ members participated in this event that wound its way up Flagstaff Hill Road and then onto Chandlers Hill Road, eventually travelling through the picturesque towns of Clarendon and Kangarilla, and Meadows. The cruise enjoyed some lovely Adelaide Hills countryside as it proceeded along Paris Creek Road before arriving in Strathalbyn for morning tea.
It was at Strathalbyn that members welcome by the team at the Gilbert Motor Museum and provided the opportunity of a short visit. Having never actually been to this museum previously, this author was impressed with not just the actual size of the premises but the quality of vehicles on display. If you find yourself in this part of the State, make sure you pay a visit - Gilbert Motor Museum
After a tour of the museum or a stroll along High Street to obtain coffee, the members again found themselves on the move again after a one hour stop. Travelling towards Victor Harbor and then turning off towards the small
hamlet of Finniss, the members were able to enjoy some lovely roads that meandered through both dairy and wine country before concluding at Lake Alexandrina at the town of Clayton.
Here the members lined their vehicles up near Pier 28 for that all important picture opportunity before descending upon the restaurant for a well-earned meal. The restaurant was forced to close during the COVID pandemic and had only recently re-opened under new management. The meals were well presented, fine to eat and the staff enjoyable. Well done Pier 28!
Adelaide BMW Annual Gala.
The 2024 Adelaide BMW Gala took place on Saturday, May 18th, at the West Terrace location of Adelaide BMW. This annual black-tie affair aims to raise funds for selected charities. In 2024, over $80,000 was raised for two local children's charities: Backpacks 4 SA Kids and Living Without Limits. The event was attended by several committee members who indulged in a delightful three-course meal provided by 'Out in The Paddock' catering, accompanied by a variety of beverages throughout the evening.
Palmer cruise Sunday 9 June 2024
Six weeks had passed since the last major club cruise, signalling the perfect time to revitalize those Bavarian beauties, and hit the throttle towards the township of Palmer, nestled on the eastern side of the Mount Lofty Ranges. Around thirteen vehicles gathered at the Yolk Café, Walkerville to embark on a cruise through the picturesque Adelaide Hills during the King's birthday weekend. The journey included a delightful stop at the Giant Rocking Horse for a morning cuppa before continuing towards Palmer, with a mandatory photo opportunity along the way. Despite the sun's reluctance to shine as the vehicles lined up at the Palmer lookout, the rain held off, much to everyone's relief.
Lunch was enjoyed at the Palmer Hotel, where spirited conversations about all things BMW filled the air over a leisurely meal.
Members Catch-up, Coffee and Club Rego, Unley Shopping Centre, June 2024
On a clear but crisp Sunday morning on the 16th of June 2024, approximately sixteen vehicles attended the monthly Catch-up, Coffee and Club Rego at the Unley Shopping Centre, Unley. These events are hosted by the club on most weekends during each month, primarily so members can either register or update the
historic registration of their club vehicles. It is also a great occasion just to take your pride and joy out of the shed and meet up with fellow enthusiasts over a cup of coffee.
Make sure you check the club’s website under the Events page to ascertain when the next Catch-up will be held and do not forget to register. https://www. bmwdcsa.org.au/upcoming-events
On this occasion, I noticed a BMW E30 ute standing proudly amongst the lineup of other Beamers. Having been engaged in digitising the clubs old records; I recalled seeing this ute in an old photo album from 1991. Speaking with its driver, I was soon advised that in fact it was his grandfather’s vehicle, Mario Cavallo’s. Mario was the owner of Australian Crash Repairs on Port Road Allenby Gardens and was once a resolute supporter of the club.
The vehicle was originally a BMW E30 that had been involved in a rear end collision and the previous owner was paid out by their insurance company. Mario purchased the vehicle and cut off the damaged rear end and converted it into a Ute, utilising his body working skills. The vehicle was often seen at club events in the early 1990’s and hopefully we may again see this Bavarian mutant again.
BMW E30 Ute 2024 and right, the same vehicle in 1991
Visit to Sleeka Spares
26 June 2024
On a chilly Wednesday evening, a small group gathered at Sleeka Spares, located at Unit 2/1391 Main N Rd, Para Hills West. Here, David and Peter warmly welcomed the members and recounted the business's origins from a hobby focused on enhancing Toyota Celica’s to its status as a supplier of performance parts and tires catering to Adelaide's JDM and drift enthusiasts, as well as customers across Australia via their website.
For the motorsport enthusiasts present, Sleeka Spares either stocks or can source LSD components, clutches, and a variety of brake pads specifically for BMWs. Recognizing that some members of the BMWDCSA also own non-BMW vehicles under historic registration like Nissan Skylines, Sleeka offers performance upgrades and service parts tailored to these needs.
As a special highlight, attendees were graciously invited to tour the expansive inventory located at the rear of the shop. The array of parts impressed, highlighting Sleeka's capability to swiftly supply components to the local JDM community.
Currently, Sleeka Spares serves as distributors for the Nankang tire brand and is in the process of establishing a new tire fitting facility to gradually expand their tire selection.
Special thanks were extended to Julie and Shaun for coordinating this insightful workshop visit.
BMWDCSA Annual General meeting (AGM) 14 August 2024
This year’s Annual General Meeting took place at the Alma Hotel, Norwood, drawing about thirty members who were eager to support the club's core functions.
Club President Craig Florance began by summarizing the club's financial performance from the previous year and outlining planned events and key areas for improvement in the upcoming fiscal year. Other committee members also provided updates on their respective areas of responsibility.
A highlight of the meeting was the announcement that club membership had grown to 474 members, with expectations that this number will surpass five hundred by the end of the calendar year. In response to the current cost of living crisis, members approved a modest increase in fees: membership fees will rise by $5 per year, and logbook fees will increase by $1. Despite these adjustments, the BMWDCSA remains one of the most affordable car clubs in the state.
Additionally, it was announced that all members would now benefit from a BMW dealer discount when purchasing a new BMW vehicle.
Nominations for committee positions were presented and the following roles were confirmed:
• Conditional Registration Officer: Adrian Cavanagh
• Conditional Registration Officer: Tim Dixon
• Magazine Editor: Wayne Williamson
• Public Officer: Graham Patterson
• Driving Tour Co-Ordinator: Peter Kanck
• Events Assistant – Julie Pfennig
• Young Enthusiasts Co-ordinator - Gerry Mavrogiannis
• Accounts Auditor - Gerry Mavrogiannis
The meeting concluded with Craig Florance announcing Life Membership awards to Peter and Allyson Duncan. (See article on Page 10)
The Club has updated our website with the upcoming events for the rest of year, now available under the EVENTS section. Please use this page to plan your participation and remember to add these dates to your personal calendar. Early registration via the website will also help us make necessary reservations at various venues.
We welcome suggestions for new destinations for our club drives. If you have any ideas, please reach out to the Events Co-ordinator by email.
We are also open to recommendations for mid-week visits to businesses, which do not have to be auto-related—just interesting places that members might like to explore. In response to a member’s request, we are organizing a trip to the Flinders Ranges over the October Long Weekend. The plan includes a scenic drive to Quorn on Saturday, exploration of the Flinders Ranges on Sunday, and, for those not in a hurry to head home, a ride on the historic Pitchi Ritchi Railway on Monday morning.
Feedback has been positive about continuing our Annual Picnic at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, so we are planning to host it again next year on Sunday 23rd February 2025. We are looking for volunteers to join a small working group to help ensure the event is a success.
Lastly, registrations are now open for the BMW Nationals, hosted by the BMW Drivers Club Melbourne over the Anzac Long Weekend (25-28 April 2025). For more details, watch this short BMW NATIONALS VIDEO. Go to the Nationals web site to register https://www. bmwclubnationals.com.au/
Looking forward to seeing you at a club event soon!
