Enthusiasts to gather for milestone
Vintage vehicle enthusiasts will celebrate a major milestone with a big social weekend of activities later this month.
Grampians Vintage Vehicle Club will celebrate 50 years of restoration projects and appreciation of the automotive industry on May 28, 29 and 30, with events at Great Western and Ararat.
The weekend event will start with a formal social meal at Great Western Hotel on the Friday before the club bases itself at Ararat Harness Racing Club between 10am and 3pm for the next two days.
Club secretary Geoff Bullock said attendees would use the occasion to share memories and stories as well display vehicles and other historical memorabilia.
“We will be doing a short drive around Ararat, which will include a visit to the former Yadin historical farm site where the club spent many of its early years, holding meetings and events prior to its closure,” he said.
“There will also be a formal evening meal at the Ararat RSL on the Saturday evening to recognise some of our founding members who are still active in the club.”
The club formed in May, 1971 after several people with an interest in old vehicles called a public meeting to assess Grampians district interest in the idea.
The club has been active since, with regular meetings and events including visits to nearby towns and locations for social gatherings and vehicle displays.
The club has also had displays at agricultural shows and parades and made regular visits to nursing homes in Ararat, Stawell and Willaura to take residents for drives.
The club still meets monthly and continues to run many events and outings.
“We have about 150 vehicles owned by our members ranging from early-1900 machines through to modern-day collectibles,” Mr Bullock said.
“We cater for any person who has an interest in old or modern collectable vehicles whether they have a vehicle or just an interest.”
Mr Bullock said anyone keen to know more information about the club or the anniversary event could call him on 0409 384 150.