Snapshot of the past

A photograph of Drouin Motors in Main Street, Drouin in 1952.

With its pitched roof line, Drouin Motors was located on the north side of Main St, opposite the Drouin Post Office.

Also seen in this photograph are Grubbs Building Supplies and Hardware to the right and the familiar silhouette of the State Savings Bank on the far left.

At this time, Drouin Motors sold and distributed Austin motor cars, hence the sign "AUSTIN" above the entrance. Many people wanted a car after the war. Petrol was also sold from the bowsers at the front.

Drouin Motors began operation in May 1937 under the partnership of two men, Allan "Tup"

Pedersen and George Clark. Both had grown up in the Drouin district and had worked for the "blacksmiths" of the town.

Drouin Motors flourished and became a household name for their automotive supply, sales and service.

The business grew with the community around it.

They began with Dodge cars and were the only dealership in Gippsland.

George was a skilled A grade mechanic, and he ran the workshop. Vehicle sales increased and so did the need for mechanics, panel beaters and other services.

Many young men were trained by Drouin Motors. Tup was very good with people, business and sales. Ruth Irons worked for them in the office for 50 years.

When George retired in 1966, Tup took over as sole owner.

The business went on to become a Chrysler/ Mitsubishi dealership.

Tup closed Drouin Motors at 19-23 Princes Way in 1990.

When John Morgan purchased the business and reopened it across the road, Tup Pedersen cut the ribbon.

Photograph and information courtesy of Drouin History Group.

To hear more of the Drouin Motors story, visit storiesofdrouin.com.au