President’s Report - December 2024
Every year I think what a busy time the run up to Christmas has been and this year is no different. Melbourne outdid itself in producing all 4 Seasons and a few in between for our annual Concours and Display Day. With some 60 plus cars in attendance in the magnificent grounds of Cruden Farm the faithful set up their picnic tables and enjoyed the almost sultry morning until the tide turned and the rain arrived just after lunch. Regardless those in attendance enjoyed the day admiring great variety of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor vehicles along with equal admiration for the great display of Aston Martins also on display. A big thank you to Neil Matthews and his team of dedicated judges, Terry Harris, Terry Farrow, John Reis, Larry Picker and our infamous Immediate Past President Howard Wraight for your efforts in making the day happen. I also acknowledge the team at Cruden Farm for their assistance and the Langwarrin Men’s Shed for their sizzling sausages.
The Inaugural Motors and Masterpieces featured the Bentley and Rolls-Royce Marques in prime position. Our timeline of both marques was the envy of many and a source of great interest during the show. Again, thank you to those members who made their cars available for display, those who assisted with bump in and out and also the organisers for giving the club the fabulous opportunity to showcase our marques in such a prime position.
Our ladies enjoyed a fabulous lunch at the Lyceum club, with I understand much mayhem and merriment. Great to hear that the next generations were also represented. Our Christmas Party and Club Awards Picnic was another enjoyable experience – set in the beautiful home of Bill and Kendra Templer at Main Ridge. We were all privileged to enjoy good food and company and some moments of calm before the arrival of Christmas. It was indeed a pleasure to present the club awards, and particularly the highest honour to Ralph Plarre, a most worthy recipient and together with Marg are truly wonderful ambassadors for this club. Congratulations to all the winners from both the club and concours award categories. Thanks again to Bill and Kendra for making their home available and to all that have pitched in to organise.
Our December meeting will also be quite special combining the Christmas seasonality with a fabulous presentation from John Gillett on his rallying exploits in Europe – one not to miss. Heading to 2025 we kick off the year with the everpopular visit to Iron Bark Station for the January picnic meeting. Again, thanks to the hospitality of Darren and Angie we get to picnic in this amazing setting complete with Clydesdale horses, a saloon bar, many types of carriages and carts along with their vintage cars. A great way to kick of the year - remember it’s a BYO everything picnic with minimal meeting formalities and more time to enjoy the camaraderie and country setting.
We then get to support the AOMC with another visit to Cruden Farm for the Festival of Motoring on January 19th and then a highlight for many the British and European Motor show at Yarra Glen on February 16th.
Can I take this opportunity to formally thank all of the club committee, all of our committee put in many hours behind the scenes to keep our club running and bring you the activities you enjoy. I also thank our regular contributors be they in library, trophies or technical your efforts are very much appreciated.
Lastly a big shout out to our Chief Catering Officer Robert Craig – thank you for keeping us fed and watered throughout the year.
Can I close by wishing you and your families a happy healthy and terrific Christmas and New Year and I hope Santa and the new year make all your wishes come true.
Drive Safe and Stay well,
Kindly,
Keith Mortimer
