Welcome to two new members. Pikari Whetu, is that rare creature, a young member, and is the grandson of Graeme Taylor. Alyson Gardner, who was married to the late Bruce Robson, has rejoined the branch. We hope to see you both at future events. Mark Dawber sent through some recently discovered photos of the first Deans Bush Veteran rally in 1954. Wonderful to see, as many of the cars are still running well. Almost as wonderful were the clothes and hairstyles on display. Short back and sides was clearly in vogue. We’ll try and publish them next month. Monte Carlo organisation is about to swing into action, and thanks to Vaughan Morrison for entering a team. It’s on the 16th -18th of November, so start booking accommodation at Akaroa, as it always fills up over Show Weekend. The indefatigable Rod Corbett has sent through another update on the impending Targa Event. There are to be time trials for intending entrants at Highlands Motor Park on the 21 st of April, and the same at Ruapuna at a date yet to be announced. Rules and Regs are being finalised. For more information, contact Rod rcorbett@xtra.co.nz 03 423 1551, 027 4338772. Vaughan Morrison wants a Ford Model B engine, anything considered, and some 21 inch Model A rims. Phone Vaughan on 021 660762
Coming Events: The AGM: Thursday 10th of May at the Papanui RSA. 7.30pm. This riveting event is a must for all those seeking political power and influence within the branch, so do come along and organise a palace coup. We are always keen for new committee members, if only to keep the current lot awake at meetings. Talk to Ron about a nomination form. Or better still, just turn up on the night. You’ll get a free supper! The Hadstock Gymkhana: To be held on Sunday the 20th of May, 9.30 am, at Hadstock, the stately home of Squire Chamberlain and his ancestors since 1066. I’m fairly sure they are mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Be that as it may, our annual gymkhana is always great fun and last year was especially thrilling, as there were lots of like, Young People, a species not often seen at our events. I hope they will return. So put it in your diary and come and see the usual variety of vehicles and drivers prove that they can’t follow simple instructions. And it’s about time someone beat Avon Hyde. To get there, turn into the Leeston Rd from Springston, then right into Bethells Rd just before the Selwyn Bridge. Go past assorted peasants, villeins and serfs, toiling on the ancestral acres, and after 2.3 k turn left into ye fallow field by the VCC sign. Irishman Creek: Although this is a Canterbury Branch event, George Kear has asked us to include the entry form. This year it’s being organised by two Banks Peninsula branch stalwarts, James Webb and John Chamberlain so a splendid time should be guaranteed for all. The start is in Oamaru and accommodation will be at a premium, so book now. Vaughan Morrison tells me that there is room at the St Kevins College Hostel. It’s $40 a night, breakfast is available on Saturday morning. Contact jfowler@stkevins.school.nz or phone Justin 027 4265370. Rosco Sporting Trial: This world famous event is on Sunday 17th of June, at Reefton, so bring your thigh waders and snorkel, as exotic Reefton can get a trifle damp. Entry forms later. For more details contact johncecilfowler@gmail.com. Run by the Westland VCC branch.