Editor’s Report - February 2026

As we turn the page on a new year, it is heartening to reflect on such a strong and spirited beginning for the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Victoria. Our calendar opened with two outstanding events—the Evening Picnic at Ironbark Station and the Festival of Motoring at Cruden Farm, both of which were very well attended and enjoyed by members. The relaxed setting of Ironbark Station provided the perfect backdrop for fellowship, conversation, and the shared appreciation of our remarkable motor cars.

This was followed by the Festival of Motoring at Cruden Farm, where the presence of our vehicles among a diverse field of historic and significant cars drew considerable interest. The strong numbers at both events are encouraging and clearly demonstrate a growing awareness of, and enthusiasm for, preserving and celebrating vehicles from the past. Looking ahead, much is planned for the coming year, and there is every reason to believe that 2026 will be another rewarding and enjoyable year for the Club. The enthusiasm shown at these early events reflects a healthy and engaged membership, and it is this participation that ensures the ongoing vitality of our activities and our shared passion. At the same time, we may be entering a period of significant change for the wider automotive industry.

Traditional car manufacturers are facing increasing challenges, including rising regulatory pressures, the transition to alternative powertrains, escalating development costs, and changing consumer expectations. Many long-established marques are being forced to rethink production methods, supply chains, and even their core identities in an environment shaped by electrification, sustainability targets and global economic uncertainty. Against this backdrop, our Club’s focus on the preservation, use, and enjoyment of historic motor cars takes on even greater importance. These vehicles represent an era of craftsmanship, mechanical integrity, and engineering excellence that deserves to be maintained and appreciated. As custodians of this heritage, we play a small but meaningful role in ensuring that the legacy of great automotive marques such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley continue to be recognised and valued in a rapidly changing world. We look forward to the year ahead with optimism, fellowship, and a shared commitment to preserving the past while enjoying it in the present.

Wayne Spittle