Reports

I commence writing this report in the last days of August, looking forward to the spring season ahead. I acknowledge the passing of three of our own in the last month. Gary Ayre, almost a household name in the PMC and Jaguar parts and maintenance world, was farewelled earlier in the month, and it was heartening to see so many of the motoring fraternity paying their respects.

It’s August and more than two months into another Victorian winter. Whilst we are good at keeping warm, what about your cherished Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars? The only way to keep our cars warm is to run them!

I’m writing this report whilst on the Bentley Drivers Club, Winter Solstice event and my outlook today is the beautiful Marysville hills, green with a splash of fire red from some late changing trees. We live in a beautiful country but there are still reminders of how quickly things can turn with the effects of Black Saturday still visible through parts of the bushland.

Welcome to Winter, comes around quickly doesn’t it, however every season has something to enjoy, maybe a glass of red grape “juice” and an open fire. It’s certainly no excuse though not to drive your PMC, after all they come from England and are quite familiar with winter – and just think they shouldn’t overheat. (notice I said shouldn’t)

Welcome to one of my favourite times in Victoria – how can you not enjoy that period where the trees start turning and the Autumn colours start exploding forth. It also is a great time to get out and do some driving and here we hit the first speed hump. 

It has been another busy period for the Victoria Branch, with our recent events once again demonstrating the strength of our Club and the enjoyment that comes from getting our cars out, catching up with old friends and welcoming new faces.

The Australian automotive landscape continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace. While our passion remains firmly rooted in the timeless engineering and craftsmanship of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, it is always worth taking a moment to reflect on the broader industry that surrounds our hobby.

As we move deeper into winter, it is pleasing to see that the enthusiasm of our members remains undiminished. While the colder weather may encourage our cherished Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars to spend a little more time tucked away in their garages, there are still many opportunities ahead to enjoy the companionship that makes our Club so special.

Winter is now well and truly upon us after one of the most pleasant autumns that I recall, yet despite the current challenges surrounding fuel and oil shortages, it has been pleasing to see such strong support for recent Branch activities and events.

As we move into May 2026, it’s important to acknowledge it has been a quieter period for our club calendar.