DriversThrough Time – Generations of Porsche Passion
President
Paul Rossmo president@virpca.org
Vice President
Ron Dempsey vicepresident@virpca.org
Secretary Kevin Root secretary@virpca.org
Director North Island
Marc Klijnsmit northisland@virpca.org
Director South Island
Ray Gumbel southisland@virpca.org
Treasurer
Peter D. Everett treasurer@virpca.org
Webmaster Chair
Dave Nickel webmaster@virpca.org
Rally Chair
Klaus Kreye rally@virpca.org
Director Mid Island
Didier Moinier midisland@virpca.org
Database IT Chair
Steve Fairbrother steve.fairbrother@gmail.com
Insurance Chair
James Renfrew porsche@jamesrenfrew.com
Events Chair
Tim Evans events@virpca.org
Membership Chair
Larissa Lawrence membership@virpca.org
Tech / Classics Chair
Paul Rossmo paul.rossmo@prhistorics.com
Past President
Garth Webber Atkins pastpresvir@shaw.ca
Magazine Chair
Karen Bresler editor@virpca.org
Summer is here and I didn’t want to miss a chance to say thank you.
I continue to be proud of what we are building together, a club where people show up, pitch in, and enjoy the cars and each other.
We’re already half way through a season of great drives, events, and gatherings. Several new events have been spawned from member ideas communicated at our Board socials. There’s a lot more to come.
Whether you’ve joined in for a coffee, a tour, or just swapped stories in the parking lot, thank you for taking part.
I am privileged to work with a board of extremely talented Porsche enthusiasts whose efforts guide the success of our club. Please keep supporting your event organizers, volunteers, and each other. That’s what makes this club special.
Celebrating every twist and turn on the journey,
Paul Rossmo President, Vancouver Island Region Porsche Club of America
president@virpca.org
One thing I have learned from hanging around Porsche people is that a lotof stories accompany the cars. This month’s Feature Article, Drivers Through Time– Generations of Porsche Passion, looks at how Porsche transcends generations and becomes the inspiration, and often the foundation for the next generation of Porsche owner. Member Bob Drew contributed to this theme in an article on his life with many cars, including Porsche, and the experiences this generated for his family.
OurMemberSpotlight is on our Vice-President, Ron Dempsey, a self confessed car addict. This month’sRovingReporter, is part two of Gordon Halkett’s submission from his “down under” trip. TheRallyReportbrings us up to speed on the rally activities. TechTalkby Paul Rossmo outlines the Preservation v. Restoration debate. We have a couple of new features: Our Executive works very hard andExecutiveSpotlightwill focus in each issue on two of our Executive members so you can get to know each member of the Executive a little more. PorscheChiccaptures the style our members bring to events. In our MembershipReport,Larissa Lawrence introduces the YouthInitiative . Please take a look
PORSCHER is published quarterly, in the months of April, July, October and January
highlight the activity behind the scenes. Chroniclescontains photos and stories from the past and this issue highlights a special reunion of a shared connection that spans decades.
RoadTrips,Cars&Coffee has all the details on who has been doing what. So far its been a really busy season. AroundTheBend highlights upcoming events until September, many of which are already sold out.
You will find911WaystoUseYourPorsche ; and our featured pet in PorschePetsis a well loved Cars & Coffee participant.
I also want to thank our advertisers who support the magazine, including our members who advertise with us. Please let the advertisers know you enjoyed their advertisements and appreciate their support.
Please send your Letters to the Editor, submissions and photographs to editor@virpca.org. is the voice of the Vancouver Island Region of the PCA and the magazine evolves when you engage. Please join in the creation of our magazine.
- Highlighting some of our hardworking Executive
Our Treasurer– Peter Everett, CAP, CA
I was born and raised in Vancouver in a family that sold Fords for over 68 years. I have always looked longingly at the Porches flying by, but buying one would have been a major issue. Two years ago I purchased my first Porsche. A blue early production 996 Cabrio - complete with the egg eyes. Having little knowledge of Porsches - but a lot of love - I joined VIRPCA for help and guidance.
As a career, I am a CPA, CA and worked in both the audit and consulting practices at KPMG Vancouver. I found my true calling in consulting on business processes and financial systems for major corporations in North America and Europe. I worked in New York for a number of years - leaving in the late evening of November 10, 2001 and arriving 9/11 in Vancouver. So I stayed in Vancouver and over the next 20 years I created a number of successful companies in the Medical Technology field eventually retiring in Victoria.
I attending boarding school in Grade 10 - 12 on the island (Mill Bay). My wife (Georgina) and I have 3 children and 2 grandchildren. Teaching the small ones to say “P-Car”
South Island Director– Ray Gumbel
I was born and raised in Vancouver. As a career, I worked as a Mechanical Designer and Project Manager eventually becoming a partner in an Engineering company. Last year I was fortunate enough to retire early and with my wife Barbara, move to the island and transferred from PCA-CWR to become VIR-PCA members.
I have been a Porsche enthusiast as long as I can remember and have owned Porsches for nearly 35 years. I love intricate mechanical complications. In addition to driving Porsches I really enjoy working on them. My first Porsche was a Guards Red 944 which I drove and maintained for many years. When I acquired my 928 S4 in 2006, I was encouraged to join PCA. Our first encounter with the club was a Fraser Valley wine tour, we had so much fun and immediately got hooked. As a Canada West Region member, I soon became involved in all aspects of the club and I served on the executive board for 9 years. My many terms as Director At Large included Tour Director and was on the organizing committee for many Sun Peaks, Osoyoos Weekend and the national “Escape 2010” which became the template for future PCA National Treffen events. I became Vice President and then elected as Regional President in 2011-2012.
Over the years we have attended many Porsche Parades, Rennsports, Treffens and multi-regional events throughout North America. Finally, before moving to the Island, I was elected and served as Secretary, given the task to update and re-write the PCA-CWR “Rules and Procedures” (the Red Book). We are currently a two Porsche family. I still own the 1988 928 S4 and also a 1984 911 Carrera. As South Island Director, I am excited to work with the other members and all the volunteers who make this club a great place to get together and have fun in their Porsches.
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo: Dean Gaschermann
FROM the Vice President’s Porsche
Island Adventure 2025
By Ron Dempsey, Vice President Photos: As credited
Ron Dempsey vicepresident@virpca.org
For the first time since 2022, I was delighted to organize another edition of the Island Adventure. In all, 18 cars joined this 2-night event where drivers and partners didn’t know their destination beforehand – they just knew that they needed to start from Water Wheel Park in Chemainus on a cool and damp Wednesday morning in June.
The nucleus of the event comes from Classic Car Adventures’ Dave Hord of Port Alberni. Known for being the rally master for such major driving events as the California Mille and other driving events around North America, Dave’s also a major air-cooled VW enthusiast who surprised more than a few folks with his Beetle’s ability to keep up with their Zuffenhausen brethren.
Dave is the organizer of the Spring Thaw rally, an event with more than 15 years of history for classic cars that has explored some of the greatest driving events in the province. I met Dave at my first Thaw in 2015, and haven’t missed one since. Historically for cars from the 1970’s and earlier, Dave’s now permitting cars from 1980’s, especially if they’re rare or interesting, aka ‘The DeLorean rule’.
However, this year’s Island Adventure was for VIRPCA members only, with a much newer breed of Porsches, (with one exception) exploring roads that went north from Chemainus, on some great roads around Nanaimo, with a stop at Café 356 for coffee in French Creek. From there it was on the Island Highway with an optional run up Mt. Washington, before turning at Campbell River for a great drive to Gold River.
Left Drivers meeting and above: Gathering at Elk Portal, Strathcona Park Photos: David Hord
A few brave drivers on older model cars (ours included) also took Western Mine Road to Myra Falls on a fun but very bumpy surface from the mining trucks that only recently stopped driving there. Most of the group was familiar with the great roads into Gold River, but that didn’t mean that it wasn’t a ton of fun regardless.
Dinner that evening was at the Sea & Field Bistro, a short distance from the hotel in Gold River. The group took over the entire restaurant and it was a fantastic night, recounting stories from the road and getting reacquainted with friends old and new. Porsche Centre Victoria provided an array of items for door prizes, as did Dave’s company, Classic Car Adventures. Everyone took home something, from modest to deluxe Porsche corkscrews.
Day Two saw breakfast once again at the Sea & Field, before participants took off again, this time further north to Port Alice. Highway 30 is more often known to the locals as ‘that friggin’ road’ (apparently for access to the ‘Friggin’ Islands’, no lie), it might also have that moniker because it barely goes straight for more than a few hundred metres, with elevation changes, banked corners and smiles for a solid 20-30 minutes along the way – in other words, a perfect sports car road.
If you’ve lived on the island a while and haven’t experienced highway 30 for yourself, you owe yourself a trip to see it for yourself.
The quaint old mill village of Port Alice reminds us of the similar ports up and down the island and BC’s west coast, many of which are almost forgotten. Port Alice residents enjoy the quiet and winter solitude, but the coffee shop owner is delighted that visitors go out of their way to find her little spot for themselves.
Highway 30 to Port Alice Photo: Dave Hord
Photo: Pat Lote
After a group lunch in that only shop in town, the gang was anxious to get back on the road again back the way we came, exploring more of the North Island such as Telegraph Cove or Coal Harbour before heading back down to the Campbell River area and a stay at Oyster Bay Resorts. The group had almost the entire allotment of cabins to ourselves, enjoying the waterfront views and a fabulous Italian dinner that evening at Mattone’s.
After dinner, night number two ended with participants taking in a campfire at Oyster Bay and recounting stories from the road and making new friends along the way. There was also a lot of questions about the timing of the next Island Adventure with possible route suggestions. All that I could respond is that another adventure will happen again, but I can’t share the route until then; what kind of adventure would that be?
Photos Above Left and Right Ron Dempsey
Photos Leftbottom and right: Pat Lote
Drivers Through TimeGenerations of Porsche Passion
From the roar of an air-cooled engine to the sleek hum of an all-electric powertrain, Porsche has captured the hearts of drivers across generations. More than a marque, Porsche is a legacy one that transcends time, technology, and tradition. Porsche continues to forge a unique bond between car and driver, and inspire generations of drivers. The story spans entire families. Across decades, Porsche has inspired a lineage of loyalty where a grandfather’s pride in his 356 becomes the spark for a son or daughters' Carrera dream or a granddaughter’s Cayman journey. It is not uncommon to find multiple generations in a single family united by a shared passion - passing down the keys - and the stories - which come with them.
John Clark in 2021 presenting our cover girl, Lily Nickel, (aged 3 in this photo) with his specially created in the moment car artwork, now a much loved piece of Fridge Art. Photo Derek Nickel.
Gregory Campbell submitted the photos above and writes: “Same car, same aficionado, 58 years later.”
This sentiment highlighted in Gregory’s caption of this photo carries through many of the stories presented here, as the knowledge and enthusiasm is passed on. We look at the young faces sitting joyfully in the Porsche passenger seats today, and we know that history will repeat. For the reader who owns a Porsche or more, it is a reminder that other generations are watching you and being inspired, in many different ways, just like you initially were. Sometimes it’s the reverse. The younger generation inspire the older generation to live the dream of finally owning one of these vehicles. Some may call it a legacy on wheels, prompting the personal inquiry as to what your legacy will be.
Here are a few stories and photos of generations of cars and people in our region...
We continue the journey through time with the Nickel family. The photograph above, submitted by Derek Nickel, of his father, Dave Nickel’s 911 parked in front of his 911, is very symbolic of this father-son duo Porsche passion which developed as Derek was growing up. But just who influenced who? Derek says: “I would say I influenced my dad. He must have thought the 944 would be fun as a father-son project”. And so it came to be.
Dave and Derek Nickel’s Porsche 911’s parked at Gold River, 2020
Photo: Dylan Sawatzky
Dave chimes in and says “While Derek was the impetus that day to join the PCA and “get some friends” as he often told me, it was very much earlier that the bug lay hidden for me” Dave’s father bought a 1957 356 Career from Speedway Volkswagen and told him he had to sell the car after two years as Dave “was getting too big to sit in the parcel shelf anymore. Dave adds “Ralph Nader, eat your heart out!”
returned home from work, and parked a 944 Porsche hidden behind the hedge. Dave then surprised his son and Derek had a moment of extreme excitement. However the Porsche was not his. Dave and Derek shared this 944 and worked on it together, fixing it up and sharing it for drives and trips.
Derek takes us back to a time when he was the child and he had Porsche pictures all over his room. Racing Porsches in the Need for Speed Porsche –Cote d’Azur computer game together with Dad was the start. As an IT Admin Dave made sure they had 3d glasses. A growing collection of posters all over Derek’s room from around age ten helped manifest the next step.
Around the time that Derek commenced his university education, the family cars were switched and he gave up his 89 Jetta to his dad, and Derek, (taking one for the team), drove his grandparents Pontiac Bonneville, as requested. Around age 21 coming back from university for the weekend, Derek drove to his parents’ house and noticed that his Jetta was gone from the driveway. A short while later Dave
Soon enough Dave wanted more power so he began looking for the next model up which was a 944 S2. After some restoration and modifications, the S2 was sold to make way for a 968 which was worked on and modified extensively by Dave and Derek. “We worked on that together for four or five years. Dad put in quite a bit of money, more than Mum probably knows about. We drove to California to get a stage 1 supercharger kit installed, -“air cleaner”, as my Dad told my Mum.” After a few more years, and graduating university, Derek then set out to find a air-cooled 911. Good friend and mechanic, Peter Beyeler (known in VIRPCA circles as the go to retired Porsche Mechanic) happened to be looking to sell his 1985 911. A deal was done in 2013 and Chippy (as the car is named) has been cared for and with Derek ever since.
Dave Nickel’s first experience of Porsche, from the parcel shelf, in his fathers 356
Photos submitted by Derek Nickel
Eventually Dave wanted an air-cooled 911, as he apparently now felt left out. (Derek adds “ poor guy”). In 2018 Dave finally found a 1988 911 that checked all the boxes and the duo had air cooled to drive together.
In 2023 Dave was longing again for an additional “wasserpumper” front engine Porsche for longer road trips with his wife. The 911 was missing the space (for her luggage), near 50/50 weight distribution, and relative comfort of transaxle cars which started with the 944s. Dave honed in on searching for a late model 928 S4 which he found in Winnipeg. Derek recalls how it happened: “Dad asked me ’Should I do it?” and I said “Do it!” In 2023 we flew out to Winnipeg on a boys’ trip and then spent the next four days driving back to Vancouver Island.”
Dave and Derek got involved early on 2008-2009 with planning of the Crown Isle and then Black Rock Resort events in later years. “Many fun planning meetings and drives were had over the years, and the events were a blast to plan”, Derek recounts. A few years ago they finally stepped back and started to participate in the events as attended, which Derek says was quite a different experience compared to planning, organizing and running around. Derek says one day they might volunteer again for the planning committee, however currently they are just enjoying attending.
Now Derek and his wife, Madeline, have two beautiful daughters who are very comfortable in both Grandpa and Daddy’s Porsches. They frequently ask Dad to take them and pick them up from daycare and school in Chippy, and pout if the Porsche has to stay home.
The photo heading up this article is Lily at age three with John Clark where he whipped up some artwork and wanted to gift it to her. This inspired her and it is still hung in the house today. Always the teacher, John said (Editor’s note: see Porscher July 2024) that he loved how his car would draw a young crowd and that would be inspiring for the younger generations.
Photo Right: Lily and Elliot at home around Porsches.
Derek relates how their youngest Elliot asks, usually at daycare pickup, “did you bring the Porsche?” and gets a little sad when Derek tells her “not today” because he had “work tasks”. Derek says “She loves being in the front seat (in the car seat) with the targa top out, hands out and telling daddy to go faster.”
Derek says the exposure of the girls to the experience of Porsche, and car culture in general has created a lot of fun in the family.
On the impact the cars have had on his life and family, Derek states that: “it’s people first but the cars can bring the people together.” He notes that his parents have more good friends and attend as man events as they can schedule.
Having a strong social structure and community in your life is known to be one of the predictors of longevity, for people, and the club itself.
“She loves being in the front seat (in the car seat) with the targa top out, hands out and telling daddy to go faster.”
Photos submitted by Derek Nickel
Photos submitted by Derek Nichol
Dave Nickel
Derek Nickel
In another VIR family, member Harvey McDougall shared his family’s story of the Porsche named Sally.
It is clear that this story is about more than engineering. Its about legacy.
“That is Spencer and Zoe in 2005, shortly after I acquired the 993 (also known as Sally…from the Cars movie). They are 9 and 4 years old in the picture. Other Porsches have come and gone, but they were just distractions! Sally is forever, at the insistence of my kids! She is even in my last will and testament.”
Generations of dogs have also shared the Porsches as evidenced by Eddie McDougall (Right: photo Harvey McDougall)
Many current Porsche owners can attest to how influential these early childhood experiences have been in their choice of vehicle today. It is clear that this story is about more than engineering. Its about legacy. These vehicles have not only moved us physically but also emotionally, becoming symbols of ambition, freedom and personal achievement across the decades. We honour the generations of drivers who have kept this spirit alive, handing down their passion from parent to child, mentor to student. Highlighting again the importance of being aware of the generations that came before us and the ones who will follow us.
And knowing too that future generations will define what it means to love a Porsche in their own way
Photos submitted by Harvey McDougall
Driven through the Decades– Bob Drew’s Journey with Cars, Family and Timeless Passion
By Bob Drew Photos provided by Bob Drew
This is about a normal guy's life-long journey & passion for true sportscars, the love of driving them and how it touched family through three generations.
My wife, Lois Drew, and I have two children Rob and a grandson Greig in Toronto, and daughter Crystal in Edmonton.
I was an estate and trust lawyer. In addition to some private practice I held General Counsel and senior admin roles with Alberta's Public Trustee. Lois was an Educator at the school and college level. I held executive positions with some societies including a CYA sailing club near Edmonton; the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada- Edmonton Centre; and PCA Polar region Edmonton and a member of VIRPCA & four other car clubs. Lois was active in various groups to which she frequently drove the Jag Ftype.
Getting Started
My curiosity was piqued when watching a black & white movie news reel of fast, nimble sports cars racing at Le Mans. When I was 14, I bought a book about sports cars which convincingly explained that Sports Cars, unlike straight-line dragsters, or left-turning oval racers, could do everything. And, that they were superior road cars to the bloated, or heavy Chrome-laden finned Detroit cars then trundling along our public roads.
Owning a small sports cars in the early 60's, you belonged to a cult, or secret fraternity ofthosewho knew. Because we were few, there were ways to connect - Drivers meeting an oncoming sports car of a similar marque would give a quick wave from the steering wheel as a type of salute. As a former Boxster owner, I still get the feeling that their owners even now might like to continue that. It was exciting and rewarding time to be young and enjoy these different, small, nimble sportscars as an early adopter.
“Owning a small sports cars in the early 60's, you belonged to a cult, or secret fraternity ofthosewhoknew.“
My Parents family cars included Ford products. While totally supportive of education, my parents left me to my own devices to feed my need for speed - of the sports car variety. "Speed " merely a distant goal with the early ones.
Just turning 20, my very first car was a race-weary white 1959 Triumph TR3. I added serious rally lights. Since the windshield was easily removed I temporarily tried small Derrington screens . A failed experiment, I was to learn when waiting at a long red light and it started to rain, amusing nearby drivers.
I followed it a very nice 1962 black TR3 with wires. Next came the red Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider - with a gem of an aluminium DOHC motor and modern bodywork.
I met Lois at University of Alberta and we rallied in different cars with the Northern Alberta Sportscar Club. Lois had an MGA which she had paid for herself. As life would unfold we started dating ten years later. I had an XKE jag. Lois had a Triumph Spitfire. Leading after a while to our planning a month long holiday to the South of France. The photo on the previous page is of me, age 29 with the Monaco rental Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider.
My Favourite Drive
In a mid-70's trip to the South of France Lois & I rented a Volvo for 3 weeks and an Alfa Romeo 1600 Spyder for our week in Monaco. Red, like my earlier Giulietta. In Monaco, with imagination running wild, I must admit that I drove it way too fast, in too low a gear, along the tunnel part of the Formula One Course.
One afternoon we drove almost 200 km into Italy for dinner. We cruised home on smooth roads and bridges that looked like tall arched Roman aqueducts, through mountains punctuated by long tunnels. With top down, the scent of bougainvillea was everywhere and you could also savour the sweet hum from the jewel of the Alfa motor.
The exhaust note would be accompanied by Lois' singing. Inspired by or fueled by the Italian wine, Lois had suddenly discovered her voice. And broke out in song. For most of the trip back.
In a warm pleasant Riviera evening, at cruising speed with the top-down, my wife-to-be by my side, the drive back was truly wonderful.
My First Porsche
My First Porsche was a used but very nice 356a Super with factory sunroof. I marvelled at the smooth continuous compound curved bodywork enveloping the car. I was about 21 studying at University of Alberta.
The next Porsche, a 356 Roadster, had a light top, windows with slightly squared corners, and roll-up windows. Although before my time, I was influenced by James Dean’s fatal
love for his Porsche 550 and wanted my car to have a smoother, more purposeful faux Speedster look, so I removed both bumpers.
As a youth I read about the emerging sportscar racing in the 50’s in Riverside CA with magnificent Maserati's and Ferraris. But also had to notice and respect these little Porsches punching way above their weight, demonstrating an engineering prowess that has carried forward to this day.
Lois with the MGA she drove in first year at U of A, a member of NASCC, Edmonton.
Right and Below: Same place, 32 years apart. Edmonton
The 1997 Boxster purchased during a Porsche factory promotion, allowed me to take my son, Rob, to the tremendous FIA GT 50th year racing event at Leguna Seca. where the Porsche G1 battled the Mercedes. Although it had only 202 HP, the Boxter was a delightful midengine, balanced car and manual shift. Besides splendid road trips with Lois to Lake Louise and Waterton lakes It was my start of my open lapping and DE track days, in Edmonton on full size airport courses and Race City in Calgary
Favourite Major Car Events
Buying the Boxster in the first allocation, lead to arrangements through the Edmonton Porsche dealer and factory promotion to our attending the 1997 FIA GT1-3 Sports Car Races at Leguna Seca, Monterey
As Porsche guests, son Rob and I could enjoy a gourmet meal in the hospitality tent right next to the track, while watching the race.
The event was simply amazing - because of the variety of the very best GT1-3 cars racing at the same event, including the beautiful Porsche GT1, Mercedes, and about six Mclaren F1’s. During Practice, we had access to the paddock even while the cars were literally brushing by you on their route to the track. The large parking Corral was a car show in itself. We also took in a high-end auction witnessing a bidding battle over an aluminum competition Jaguar.
Monterey Historic weekend
Am cars and the smaller vintage sports careen down the famous CorkScrew, and accelerate away, was a treat.
CAN AM Racing in Edmonton
As PCA member for one year, I again returned with Rob to Laguna Seca for the 1998 Monterey Historic Automobile Races commemorating PCA’s 50th Anniversary. Porsche was the featured marque and did they put on a show! Again there were an official active and static factory display with a number of major historic Porsche models and other brands, including the Gulf Porsches. But this wonderful collection of vintage and important sports cars were there to race hard in their class, while avoiding contact with other priceless cars under vintage racing rules. These cars were not babied and some of the controlled battles were a joy to follow. Seeing a good collection of powerful Can
Edmonton was an active auto racing centre in the late ’60’s and 70’s with a full road course / drag strip. with proper pits garages, control tower grandstands. These were heady times!. It was also held a number of races for the formidable CAN AM race cars with huge V-8’s and almost 1000HP as the class evolved. Driven by established world drivers. Promotors brought in Celebrities like Stirlihng Moss, and Canada’s Olympian Skier Nancy Greene.
As a member of the Formally affiliated car club NASCC, I received proper hands-on training for using a fire-extinguisher in that environment. I was assigned to the pit area during a Can Am race. This lead to one of the best experiences I had as a volunteer.
One of Porsche factory display at Leguna Seca Track. photo Bob Drew
Bob with son, Rob and daughter, Crystal at the VI Circuit Photo Submitted
Other Car Experiences.
In the early 2000’s Lois joined Rob and me for a Formula One race in Montreal. Seated at the hairpin we could see brake discs glowing orange, followed by the fantastic shrieking wail of cars powering away at full chat. The way race cars shouldsound. Rob and I did two more Montreal F1 with great seats at the Senna Corner and a Grand Prix Tours reception including Eddie Jordan and cars.
Lois and I took a Edmonton PCA club large group trip for an early Indy Car race at Vancouver. Rob, Lois and I took in numerous Indy Car races on Edmonton's active Municipal Airport and Toronto's street course. Paddock passes got us up close and personal.
The Diamond Rally was an large, unusual car event run annually since 2012, It was described as a charity money raising event for exotic cars and listed brands of luxury cars. The earlier years were a group run from a Burnaby/Vancouver to Whistler, including some runs on the Pemberton Airport runways. In 2019 there were 294 cars, 180 of which were exotic cars! It is more recently now re-routed to Victoria along with lapping time at the VIMC track. The Rally gave Rob some seat time on my new F-type and then a few more with the McLaren.
These were like a ticket to participate in a dynamic, moving car show.
attend the April Diamond Rally. So McLaren actually had it air-shipped over. They describe the 570 as their entry-level McLarensportscar.
I chose it because of many technical features, the main ones being the same carbon fibre exo-skeleton as their special McL P1. giving a sleek aerodynamic look, and thesteering. I took it to many full day track days arranged by the dealer at Area 27 near Oliver.
The fantastic hydraulic steering was almost telepathic . Add to that some Pirelli Corsa tires...
It was so sensitive you felt that, if you drove over a coin on the track, you could tell if it was heads or tails.
Another very personal event was my celebrating my 80th Birthday in August 2023. I booked the VIMC track and structured it as a Cars & Chocolate Celebration of Sports Cars, sharing some track time with owners who drove, and celebrating the many drivers whose volunteer work contributed to the Island car scene. ( I belong to four car clubs).
My daughter Crystal, son Rob and wife Lois all helped with the event. Both Lois and Rob did track stints with the 495 hp Jag F-TypeS V8.
To excel at something one has to invest more time. With all these compelling interests, something had to give, so, except for a few private legal and estate files, I retired at 55.
European Cars & Coffee Photo: Wyman Lee
My current and likely last sports car is the 2017 McLaren 570. Excited after my order I also wanted to
Its been a privilege to have able to drive this and all the other sports cars in this my journey.
Photo submitted
One journey—quite a few vehicles
Bob Drew’s sportscars journey from bottom left - 356 to top - 2017 McLaren 570
I was showing the Mclaren at Oak Bay Marina when a young girl about 11 came up and asked some knowledgeable questions. I asked if her mother was close by to have her come a take a picture of her. She did indeed return. With three girls matching all with striped dresses. I offered them a chance to sit in the Mclaren and have parent snap a picture. All were delighted. The conversation turned to what does one have to do to get a car like that. I explained that they must study hardnow, to get good marks so they will have choices in the future and will be able to buy one. Without exception I get barely-concealed nods of approval from the parent. All good fun! Iwonderwhetherfromtheseexperiences,ifweperhapsplanttheseedsforfuturemembersofVIRand othercarclubs?
Photo: Bob Drew
By Karen Bresler
Ron Dempsey, the current Vice-President, is passionate about cars. He comes from a big car family and Ron admits his identity is “wrapped up in cars”. It would seem he lives, dreams and breathes cars, expanding the 24 hours in a day for also playing hockey and golf, and spending time with his very supportive wife Lisa and their two adult children.
A founder of the very successful European Cars & Coffee meet at Oak Bay Marina, Ron’s love of cars spans a few generations of cars and several decades. Ron says his story starts with cars and becomes about people. Fasten your seatbelts as Ron moves fast….
Ron Dempsey
Photos: as credited
First Gear
“I grew up in a car family. My Dad was a big car guy and he was one of five brothers in Southern Ontario that were Hot Rodders. Some of them are still car restoration people but purely American so I would be like the black sheep when I was first interested in European cars”
Ron started with Volkswagens, BMW’s Audi’s and then into Porsches. He observes that this seems to be the path for a lot of Porsche owners who come to appreciate the German engineering. “You keep moving up the tree, so to speak” he says.
First memories of Porsche:
“I went to York University in Toronto and studied for a Bachelors of Business Administration. When I was a third year student, the President of the Student Council had a 356C and that was 1988– then it was a twenty three year old car but it seemed like it something from another planet because it was just so unlike other vehicles on the road in Southern Ontario. Also it was old and cool and I had never really put those two things together at that age yet. It wasn’t until 2013 that I got my first Porsche when we moved to Victoria.
Ron’s First Porsche
Ron had a racing friend named Jeff, who lived in Seattle, who offered to sell him his 356, which Ron had seen more then ten years ago ,parked in the back of his friend’s garage. “I always asked him if there is one day you are going to sell that car, let me know.” Prior to this, Ron had bought a 1/18th scale of that model of that exact car and colour. At the time, Ron said to him “ I have got to have it to match the model” thinking it was a joke, but the joking paid off as his friend called him ten years later and asked if he still wanted to buy the car.
At the time the prices of 356’s had increased and Ron wasn’t sure he could afford it but Jeff said he would sell it to Ron at its value at the time Ron saw it, ten years prior. Ron said was “extremely generous and that is when I brought it home from Seattle on a flat deck. It need some work but cosmetically it was great. “This was my first Porsche built three years be-
fore I was born”, Ron observes.
Second Gear
The car made its first big trip to Rennsport 5 in 2015 with Tony Apcar. “We did a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway down to Monterey. “When you get a new car its like you are dating, but when you finally do a road trip, its like you are truly married - you get to know each other a lot better!”
Ron says this was the start of him getting more involved in the Porsche world. “I have been twice to Rennsport. Whenever I bring someone new there, we always walk away from it asking if there is any other brand, automotive or otherwise, that could pull off something that big and almost overwhelming.”
Ron says he became a devotee to the brand and acquired a 1987 Carrera, then the Macan that he picked up a year ago on European delivery.
Photo submitted
A theme that permeates Ron’s view is that “it starts with the car and becomes about the people.” His best memory of the 356 he has after Rennsport is when “I found the original Kardex, which is the original record from the factory of the equipment and the original owner.” This was one of the cases where learning the story of the car connected him with the people. Ron googled the owner’s name but did not come up with any substantive leads so he put a message out to his racing friends in Seattle, and a few days later, a friend came back and said he had just had lunch with the original owner of the car the day before. “He connected me and coming back from a rally in Oregan, we arranged to pull up in front of his house with the 356 which he had bought about 55 years earlier. The original owner now in his eighties, came out with his wife, both impeccably dressed. “She had her hands on her hips and was shaking her head with a smirk on her face, and I said “do you remember this car?” She rolled her eyes and said yes she did! She said her husband had bought it without talking to her, on impulse, and had traded in their Volvo wagon when, at the time, they had two kids under five years old. She asked her husband “what are you going to do with that?” He apparently took the kids to skiing lessons for years in that car with skis on the back just to prove that it could do it.”
Third gear– three passions outside of family
“I raced a vintage BMW for 15 years and there is a YouTube channel and stories on that. It was an orange 2002 model which is the same colour as the one I still have. I had two at the same time. I raced against Porsche and other cars for many years, mainly out of Seattle. I transitioned from that into the Classic Car rallies and used the 356 and a variety of different cars. “ On a quick review of some of the social media on Ron’s racing, someone commented “you like cars a lot” and this pretty much summarizes it. Ron laughs when I say racing is “Iconic Ron” and says :”well its been a while now, I didn’t realize its been ten years since I have raced. I did track days in 1997 in Ontario and just kind of developed from there. I have a very understanding wife as I got into racing at the same time our first child was born.”
Ron grew up in Toronto. He and his family moved to Vancouver in 1999 and then moved to Victoria in 2013.
Ron’s working career spanned 25 years with IBM as Marketing and Sales executive roles around North America, with stint a in New York for a year but largely based in Vancouver and Victoria. He is very proud of what he did there but states that his identity was not wrapped up in his work. He feels lucky that he had something else to move onto which is the “ car hobby”. Ron admits that if you ask people who knew him a little bit, or asked his children, it would be said that his identity is wrapped up in cars. He laughs but says there are three things he is devoted to, outside of his family. “Cars; Hockey I still play a lot of ice hockey and I am off to a hockey tournament in California, and Golf– I have golfed since I was a little kid All my friends seem to come from one or two or three of these three worlds.”
Influences on Ron’s life
“One of my dad’s close friends, who I remember meeting when I was little, was a NHL Goalie in the winter and a race car driver in the Summer. He is still a legend amongst my cousins and I because he was a bit of a madman really but the kind of guy that, when I look back, formed what I do. I still play goalieI play with a lot of great players who play professional hockey. Ron admits that he has become the same as
his fathers friend in many ways. He says his father passed away when he was really young and he looked up to him, but, Ron says, “when you look at who influenced you, you ask: “who are your role models. Sometimes its your parents in one regard and sometimes it is somebody connected to your parents who open doors that you would not have thought were available otherwise. It is often another adult in that generation that has a big impact on your life.”
European Cars and Coffee
Back to people and hobbies, Ron explains how he cofounded European Cars and Coffee, which draws the crowds at Oak Bay Marina. “Rob Maitland has a wide variety of cars and he and I met in 2013 when we had both moved to Victoria and that’s when we cracked the idea of reaching out to other European car owners in Victoria, so I placed a few online ads in 2014 and we had our first Cars and Coffee on the Esplanade in 2015.
We had 20 or 25 cars for the first showing but then it just exploded. We have 1300 people on the Facebook group now. I would never have dreamed it would be that big.”
VIRPCA
Ron has been a member of VIRPCA since July 2014 when he got the 356. He joined right away, fulfilling a long standing goal of being a member of the Porsche club. Ron agrees that when he puts his sights on getting something he tends to obtain it, but adds “then I tend to keep them.” He says its a common theme among Porsche people ”they are driven.”
Photos; above and below: Wyman Lee
Ron’s son has just graduated from Engineering from McGill. “He has a 1/18th scale of an early 911 that has been on his desk since he went to university five years ago, so I think in his mind, and for a lot of people that age, this is something to strive for, which was the case for me. The beacon off in the distance.”
Ron says his son grew up in a playpen at the vintage race track. “He would just hang out in the paddock and grew up probably thinking $10,000,000 Ferrari race cars are normal things to be around” Ron and Lisa also have a daughter, age 19, who Ron jokingly says is not really a car person but “may be one and just doesn't want to let him know that yet.”
When Ron met Lisa she had a red 944 poster up in her room and he took that to be a good sign.
Leadership
“...it is a big part of my credo– I want t be sure no one is made to feel unwelcome.”
“In my role at IBM I could translate engineering speak and communicate things more clearly. I am an only child and I feel it probably makes you mature beyond your years and I am tall so I always feel like people treat me like a leader so I decided I will be one but I never sought it out.”
Ron has been Vice-President for three years now and before that he was South Island Director for a year. “I am a project person and I love putting on an event. I get a charge out of getting things rolling.
(Editors Note: read about Ron’s recent event, Island Adventure on page ?)
What’s Next?
European Cars and Coffee has around 75– 120 participating cars and this is a big part of what Ron sees continuing. With respect to the Oak Bar car show which he also co-organizes, Ron emphasises inclusivity , where he says a 19 year old with a $3,000 Volkswagen can feel welcome and chat. He describes himself as “anti-snob– it is a big part of my credo– I want to be sure no one is made to feel unwelcome. I always look for the person who parks at the far end and I show them how happy I am that they brought their car out. We have to be extra careful that we are not seen as elitist.”
Ron at Café 356
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo Submitted
Ron in background talking to participants at European Cars & Coffee Photo: Wyman Lee
Roving Reporter
This month’s Roving Reporter is part two from Gordon Halkett, reporting from Australia. After attending F1, he visited a car museum in York, Australia, one hour north of Perth, where generations of cars were on display.
By Gordon Halkett
Photos: Gordon Halkett
The York Car Museum, in York Australia houses a collection formerly owned by a businessman- car dealerwho donated all of it to the City of York, when he passed. Race cars, Aussi only production cars, motorcyclessuper eclectic & rare, rare stuff.
“De Lisle was evidently caught driving across the causeway at 18 mph and fined 7 pounds for “furious driving”
A 1958 356 right hand drive Cab, which has the “twin grills” on the engine lid.
Rally Talk
The first event of the RAVI series was the Tour de North held on 24 May. As usual the Porsche club was well represented and scooped up the trophies:
First overall: Linnea and myself
First Novice: Dean and Braden
Zoey and Gordon scooped up some T shirts.
Due to various circumstances, the Spring and Fall TSD Rallies have been cancelled. However, there are still two opportunities to run the same kind of all-asphalt one-day event with RAVI - the Rally Association of Vancouver Island:
9 March - Rally 'round the Capital (start and end in Langford)
1 November - Falling Leaves Rally (Duncan area)
Any questions or info, please shoot me a note to rally@virpca.org
Thanks Klaus
Gordon Halkett poses with the trophies from the Tour De North
Photo submitted
Tour de North start Klaus and Linnea
Photos submitted
Right:
Dean and Braden
TECH Talk
By Paul Rossmo
You are only the Custodian of your Porsche. It was built for both you and future generations
Preservation vs. Restoration
In the world of classic and collectible cars, the line between preservation and restoration can mean the difference between a smart investment and a spiraling expense. Restored cars rarely match the beauty of the original, often suffering from the use of reproduction parts, finishes which aren’t faithful to the original, and the addition of additional options perceived to enhance exclusivity.
At a field meeting of his cars WO Bentley once remarked “There seem to be a lot more cars here than I remember making, and they all look better than when I made them.”
One of the most common scenarios involves owners trading in a car they have owned and loved, only to see it later, freshly detailed and gleaming, and then regretting selling it. That emotional response highlights a truth: often Porsches do not need to be replaced or restored, just properly preserved.
The most expensive phrase during a restoration is, “We may as well”, it’s a slippery slope. A full restoration involves stripping a car down to its bones, and the costs, both to originality and in dollars can quickly escalate beyond reason.
Preservation on the other hand, focuses on cleaning, caring for, and sympathetically repairing what is already there. After a thorough wash, detail, and condition assessment, many cars reveal they have plenty of life left in them. Minor paint damage can be professionally corrected.
Faded plastics and trim can be rejuvenated with modern restoration projects. Upholstery and carpets can be deep cleaned, and often a new set of floor mats makes a dramatic impact. Upgrading wheels, or subtle body enhancements can completely update the car and personalize it without altering the cars core identity.
Just as importantly, a major mechanical service can breathe years of reliability back into a familiar friend. All of this can be done at a fraction of the cost of a full restoration, and often with better long term results.
Before you commit to selling or restoring your Porsche, ask yourself: What would it take to fall back in love with this car? The answer may be simpler and more affordable than you think.
Larissa Lawrence, Membership Chair
Fuelling the Future: VIRPCA’s Youth Initiative
Remember your first love?
No, not that one. I mean your first car. That heartbeat-skipping thrill the first time you took the wheel. The freedom. The roar (or wheeze) of the engine. That delicious taste of independence. For many of us, that first love led us to Porsche. The precision. The style. The feel of the road through the steering wheel. We didn’t just buy a car we joined a community. A way of life.
So here’s the question:
Who are we passing the keys to?
As we celebrate the generations of Porsche lovers that have shaped VIRPCA, it’s time we look to the ones who are still waiting for their turn behind the wheel. The youth. Our kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews. The ones who stare wide-eyed at your 911 or Boxster and whisper, “someday.”
Reigniting the Spirit for a New Generation
VIRPCA is excited to begin shaping a Youth Engagement Program an initiative inspired by PCA’s Juniors program, but driven locally by our community and spirit. We’re not talking about turning kids into concours judges (yet). We’re talking about creating fun, hands-on, memory-making opportunities that bring families together and spark lifelong passion. Here’s what we’re aiming to do:
Foster the next generation of Porsche lovers.
Create events that let young people feel the thrill of our club even before they have a license. Deepen generational bonds by welcoming new families into the fold.
Launch youth-inclusive activities driving tours, pit-lane meetups, wrench-turning 101s we’re open to your ideas and would love to hear them.
What We Need Now
This isn’t just about them. It’s about us. As members, you’re invited to help shape this future.
HowYouCanGetInvolved
- Have ideas for youth events? Tell us.
- Want to help plan? Join the working group.
- Are you a parent of a teen? Even better volunteer as a parent-teen team to offer real perspective.
- Love the idea but short on time? That’s okay - cheer us on and help spread the word.
Let’s be honest: most of us didn’t get here on our own. Someone lit that spark. A parent. A sibling. A neighbour who tossed you the keys and said “ go on give it a try.” Now it’s our turn to be that person. The club is better when it includes all generations. Let’s build something that lasts longer than the gas in the tank. Something that driveson.
“The youth don’t need to be the future. With your help, they can be part of our present.”
VIRPCA Youth Initiative
John P. Sommerwerck
PCA Zone 6 Rep
Nancy & I had a very busy month. It started with our participation in the Selkirk Loop driving tour put on by the Inland Northwest region. This tour had participants from Oregon, Washington and Idaho –47 cars & 87 people. The tour started in Coeur d’Alene with a boat cruise and continued with drives into British Columbia. It ended in Spokane with a car show. However, Nancy & I bypassed the Spokane portion as we had to leave for our next adventure.
We hurried home to clean our clothes and pack for our trip to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This was a trip of a lifetime. We flew in Sunday/Monday before the race. While the focus of our trip was the race, we had the opportunity to visit the Normandy D-Day beaches, wine tasting, and more. Our tour was hosted by a 14-time Le Mans driver, Robin Donovan. Robin had teamed with Derek Bell, and Robin arranged a lunch with Derek. The stories were fascinating! The race experiences were unbelievable: We were in the pits during a pit stop. We were at the end of the Mulsanne straight, at midnight, 15 feet from the track –you could see the red-hot brakes. We visited the Daytona Chicane during the race. Robin told us of driving the original 6-kilometer Mulsanne Straight in a Porsche 917 before the Daytona and Michelin chicanes were added. And the answer to the question: did we stay up for the entire race? Was no! The race ended with a 14+ second difference between first and second place Hyper cars.
day, August 30th from New York, NY, returning on Sunday, September 6th. Treffen at Sea registration is now open! Fall 2025 Treffen will be held at the Four Seasons Resort in Jackson Hole, WY. Check it out at: Treffen Jackson Hole (Fall 2025) | Treffen North America . I am sorry to report, registration for Treffen Jackson Hole sold out in 4 minutes.
Nancy and I continue our planning for Zone 6 region visits, so far, we have plans to visit nine and are looking for ideas for the other two visits. Zone 6 signature region events can be found PCA Zone 6The Pacific NW Regions. Zone 6 abounds in great roads to drive and great automotive venues.
Besides Porsche Parade, PCA National has several events of note; 2025 Treffen at Sea sets sail Sun-
Stay healthy and we will see you in the Zone and at the 69th Porsche Parade!
North Island
Director:
Marc P. Klijnsmit
Good day members!
Action packed summer coming up!
Please follow our social media on Facebook and our website for cool events coming up in the next few months. I personally love the lunch and dinner meets. It usually is a fun drive to the destination and is a great opportunity to meet and hang out with members and newcomers. One of the events I look forward most this month is the potluck picnic lunch. I hear there are still some spots available, so make sure to sign up
We have the second annual 356 Gimmick Rally coming up in early August. Last year was a huge success and for this year Klaus, Linnea and I will make this another memorable event! This will be posted on Facebook and our website very soon!
Last Mittwoch Essen was cancelled unfortunately. Maybe because it was a lunch, so next Mittwoch Essen will be dinner again. We will be going to Courtenay this time! Posting coming soon!
Porsches and Pizzas is coming to Parksville at the end of this month! Make sure to register for that one. There is a nice big parking lot so cool opportunity for a car photoshoot!
Something dear to my heart is the John Clark Memorial Drive to Gold River in September. Tim Evans has been working hard to make this a great event in Campbell River. I’ve been on the island almost 10 years, but I have never been to Gold River so I am very excited for this drive! Naturally Pacific is a great resort with a really nice restaurant and bar. Velocity, the Top Golf facility next door, is so much fun! As of now, there are still a few spots left.
Marc P. Klijnsmit Cell: 416-909-03901 northisland@virpca.org
Mid Island
Director: Didier Moinier
Drives to Port Alberni is TBA for Saturday October 4th
The idea is that the three areas, North, Mid and South Island, organize a drive with destination: the train station in Port Alberni to meet at 11:00 am, then all Porsche drivers and guests would embark on a train car for a ride on the steam train.
South Island
Director: Ray Gumbel
With the longer days and warm weather, we are making the most of the summer months on the South Island. This spring and summer, we have hosted several successful “Fast.Food” events at various locations. In May, our group dined at Table Nineteen at the Olympic View Golf Course on the Westshore. In June, our VIR members enjoyed a wonderful dining experience at the Fox & Monocle, in North Saanich. The July event at Church & State Winery is already sold out for dinner. Details for the venue in August are to be announced.
In addition to our regular Sunday morning Cars & Coffee gathering at Whole Foods in the Uptown mall, we have introduced the "Early Riser Drive" for those who enjoy getting up early on Sunday mornings. This scenic drive takes participants through the beautiful backroads of the South Island, ending at Whole Foods in plenty of time for the regular Coffee & Cars gathering. The Early Riser Drive is held monthly, weather permitting. If you are interested in attending any one of these or other popular driving events, please check virpca.org “calendar of events” for updates. Be sure to register early, as these events fill up quickly.
Ray Gumbel VIR-PCA South Island Director
Photos submitted
Events Chair
Tim Evans
The 2025 driving season has officially begun, at least that is how I see once spring has arrived on the island. Our event calendar is coming together with a lot of events now confirmed and a number still in the planning stages. Our first driving event is scheduled for April 26th and will kick off the season. You can find more info on the website calendar and I encourage you to keep checking the website for events in your area.
I am pleased to see that we have events that cover all of the island and even some from Canada West Region on the lower mainland and we should hear soon about events from BC Interior Region that we can participate in. Nothing like a drive to the interior where they have so many great secondary highways and roads to experience. Of course, we also include events from our Zone 6 and PCA.
Don’t be shy about suggesting events. Even if you have no experience or time to organize them yourself, we can always help out with that. Send any suggestions to myself at events@virpca.org
See you on the road.
Left: Board meeting with members present- March 2025- Event planning for 2025 in full swing
Right: Genoa Bay Drive 2024
Photo: Karen Bresler
Photo: Karen Bresler
In-Person Board meetings
Report by Karen Bresler
The Executive is meeting in person currently and invites all members to attend. The Executive and Members enjoy a social hour over a meal and then get down to business running VIRPCA. The meetings are a great opportunity for the Executive to hear from members and for members to see what goes into running this region. The social connection before the meeting has been energizing. Our Secretary Kevin Root, keeps the minutes and also runs the zoom meeting for those who can’t meet in person.
July’s meeting resulting in Gordon Halkett volunteering to be the Merchandise Manager for our Boutique store. Details coming soon.
We will need volunteers to assist in upcoming events and we are also looking for a Volunteer Co-Ordinator. Currently anyone interested in volunteering, or being the Volunteer Co-Ordinator – please email editor@virpca.org
July Board meeting at Fox and Hounds, in Ladysmith.
Photo: Marc Klijnsmit
911 ways to use your
Linnea Uphoff submitted this photo of the time she assisted Detlef Ehrhardt with the transportation of a mattress. Bystanders were reported to being confused by the sight.
In the April 2025 issue of Porscher, Chronicles featured the photo below of Paul Rossmo in 1987 holding an elated Karl Schon in his arms after an exuberant jump to celebrate a win racing their 356’s together. Karl passed away last year and Karin, Karl’s wife and their son Tristan, visited with Paul at Café 356 in June. With the same 356 next to us, it was very much a story of a Porsche transcending generations. The afternoon was filled with the stories of this family and Porsche’s journey over time, including its fully relevant presence today. Hence the reprint of the photo here, and photos of the recent reunion. Being Editor has its advantages as I got to ride in the 356 and declare it my favourite Porsche.
Above: Photo of Paul Rossmo and Karl Schon on the cover of Timberline, Newsletter of Canada West Region, November 1987 Paul says: “We both placed well in the race at Westwood, Vintage Racing our 356’s. Karl was so happy, he jumped into my arms.”
Reprinted with permission
Photos by Karen Bresler
Photos: Right top and below: Karen Bresler
Porsche Chic
This issue’s most chic VIRPCA members are Shawn Titterton, who showed us how to dress for Porsche travel at Café 356 and at the Porsche Victoria’s unveiling of the 992.2; and Detlef and Georgia, who always bring style to any occasion.
Photos: Karen Bresler
Cars and Coffee gatherings are held weekly on Sunday morning at south island and mid-Island locations, and twice monthly on Saturday or Sunday morning at north Island locations. Check the website for times and locations.
Victoria
By Karen Bresler
Porsche Victoria held an unveiling of the 992.2 in June 2025. VIRPCA members in attendance also celebrated a few members who had just taken delivery of their own 992.2. Pat and Kevin Lote and Dr. Diane Cruickshank had their new Porsches parked at the door of the showroom and the celebratory energy ran high. For more details on the vehicle, contact Porsche Victoria.
Thank you to Porsche Victoria for hosting this superb event.
Photos: Dean Gaschermann and Karen Bresler
Photo credit right: credit to original source
Bottom: Dean Gaschermann captures the moment of unveiling by Matthew Kennard and Adam Ma of Porsche Victoria
Photos Dean Gaschermann.
Photos: Dean Gaschermann
Photos: Karen Bresler
Photo: Larissa Lawrence (turned the camera on Karen Bresler, pictured here with Lynn Duplessis
Turning the camera on our intrepid photographer, Dean Gaschermann
CWR visits Café 356
Photo credit as indicated
It was another busy day at Café 356 in May but this time the excitement was heightened in the parking lot as many VIRPCA members waited for the arrival of CWR members. Dean Gacherrmann captured shots of the visiting Porsches rolling in and soon the Café and parking lot were alive with laughter and shared enthusiasm.
Photos: Dean Gaschermann
Photos: Dean GAschermann
Photos: Dean Gaschermann
Photos: Karen Bresler
Above: Karen Bresler A Porsche Packed Parking Lot
Below: Dean Gaschermann
Ongoing Cars & CoffeeTimes
North Island Cars and Coffee is every second Saturday in Campbell River at the Quinsam Crossing Starbucks- 10am to 12.Cars and Coffee is also every 4th Sunday at Bean Around the World on Cliff Avenue in Courtenay. 10am to 12.
Mid Island Sundays 9:00 am, Café 356, 1025 Lee Road, Parksville
South Island Sundays 9am, Whole Foods Market, 3587 Blanshard Street, Victoria
A few upcoming events July 2025 September
Please check the website as events are updated all the time. Some notable upcoming events are featured here so you can “Save the Date” and register in time. We look forward to the cars, people and lively discussions!
July 18 Fast Food– Church and State Winery Sold out
July 19 Genoa Bay Drive an annual favourite– a stunning drive to the scenic Genoa Bay Café for lunch. Filling Fast.
July 27
The Porsche Potluck Picnic : reviving the annual Summer Picnic with a twist. Bring a favourite salad, main dish or dessert to share. Surrounded by the Porsches on Didier and Maxine’s beautiful property in Errington, outside Parksville, it’s a people, cars and food event you won’t want to miss Filling Fast https://msreg.com/Porsche-Potluck-Picnic
August 17 Ladies Drive
Join other VIR ladies on Sunday, August 17, 2025 for a scenic drive through the Cedar area, with a stop at the Cedar Farmers’ Market, and lunch at the historic Wheatsheaf Pub. Feel free to attend with whatever vehicle you like. Registration just opened. Register asap. https://msreg.com/2025-Ladies-Drive
August 31 Porsche-Prawns - Sold out
September 7 Porsche Victoria is hosting a special event for the women (Save the date– invite to follow)
September 19-21 The John Clark Memorial Weekend see page 9 (two places remaining at time of printing)
Photo: Eric Maitland
FOR SALE By Owner
997/1 Wheel, rims set of 4, c/w centre caps, vale stems, Michelin Pilot Super Sport: 18” 911 Carrera Stock, rims in very good condition, tires 1 or 2 seasons remaining.
FrontRims18 x 8” show the following info: - 99736213600 -8 ET 57 8Jx18H2, BBS Mags Made in Germany
Tires 235 / 40 ZR18 manufactured 2016 12 week
RearRims18 x 10” show the following info: - 997362140.01 - 10 ET 58 10Jx18H2, BBS Mags Made in Germany
Tires 265 / 40 ZR18 manufactured 2015 46 week
Asking $ $750.00 CDN. Or OBO
Contact: Peter Moss 250 667 7840 cell or peter.moss911@gmail.com
Porsche pets
Karl Hoener submitted these photos of Sherry, a popular Cars and Coffee participant. He writes : “Sherry will be 9 years in July. I help train BC Guide Dog puppies for working with blind, Autism, PTSD and support dog occupations. have boarded dozens of puppies and “almost” all of them have been an absolute joy to work with. The puppies really seem to be getting better and better as they progress the BCGD breeding program. brought so many to Porsche coffee Sunday mornings and all of them are welcomed enthusiastically by everyone. doesn’t love puppies?
Sherry helps newer puppies adapt to interacting with other dogs. Sherry is an amazing mentor. The main thing she tries to teach is respect for space that dogs want and need. The little ones tend to be in your face too much because they are taken away from mom at seven or eight weeks. Mom would teach them boundaries if they stayed home longer.”
Above: Puppy Sherry and below, as an adult. Photos: Karl Hoener
Karl Hoener and Sherry
Naturally Pacific Resort
Brian Danyliw– Sothebys International Realty
Vancouver Island Motor Circuit Villa Eyrie
Porsche Victoria Good Fellows Cigar Shop
Dancia Motors Café 356
Unique Accommodations
PR
Historics Appraisals
Cleo Connects
Please show your support for these businesses by giving them the opportunity to serve you. Also mention that you saw their advert in Porscher so they know their money is well spent. The display of adverts does not constitute an endorsement of the company by VIR or PCA.
Submissions to Porscher Members are invited and encouraged to submit articles and photos that would be of interest to the Club. Photos in JPG or PNG formats. Articles should not exceed 750 words. Longer articles will be considered on a case by case basis. If submitting photos, please send a caption describing the photo or the people depicted and please indicate the name of the photographer. Please send submissions via email to the Editor at: editor@virpca.org
Magazine Deadline The deadline for the next issue is the 15th of the month prior to the issue date. Porscher is issued April, July. October, and January.
Photo Credits: Ken McClean; Eric Berard, Dean Gaschermann; Wyman Lee, Karen Bresler, Paul Rossmo, Porsche Experience. Others are credited in articles. If we have omitted anyone, our apologies. Please advise us and we shall credit you next issue.
Advertising Rates (per issue)
$250 Outside back page
$230 Inside front cover
$200 Inside back cover
$180 Full page
$ 100 Half page
$ 60 Quarter page
$ 30 Business card
Classified Ads: No Charge
Please contact the Editor for more information at editor@virpca.org
Porscher is the official publication of the Vancouver Island Region Porsche Club of America and is published quarterly.
EDITORIAL: Statements appearing in PORSCHER are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Porsche Club of America, the Vancouver Island Region, its Executives or the Editor. All articles and photographs are copyright the author or contributor (unless otherwise noted). Permission for reprints or reproduction of the contents must be granted by the Editor and the author or contributor.
