President’s Report - November 2023
October was a month packed full of club events, starting with the two day run to Portarlington in celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Derby Bentley, followed by our General Meeting also dedicated to the same anniversary. Needless to say, October is the very month in which 90 years ago the first Derby Bentley models were introduced to the motoring world and went on very quickly to establish the legend of the ‘Silent Sportscar’. Many thanks to Wayne Fitzgerald for his input to both of these events. A very exciting and memorable day was enjoyed by those of us who attended the Lang Lang Proving Ground event where a fascinating and eclectic array of marque and non-marque cars were able to demonstrate their excellence in a number of thoroughly enjoyable driving challenges. If that was not enough, many of our members participated the very well attended 20-Ghost club national rally held in Milawa.
One of the highlights of our Portarlington run was the visit to Scotchman’s Hill Winery, who we are delighted to announce have come on board as a Gold Sponsor of our Club. Sponsors play a pivotal role in the vitality and success of our club. Their support goes beyond financial contributions, as they bring invaluable resources and opportunities that allow the club to thrive. An example of this is with Scotchman’s Hill as part of their sponsorship is to underwrite the additional cost of producing every edition or our newsletter in colour. They are also offering club members very generous discounts at their cellar door and wine purchases made directly with them.
I encourage all members to support each and every one of our sponsors as beyond financial support, sponsors often offer technical expertise, access to exclusive products, and exposure to a wider audience through their branding and marketing efforts.
Coming up, we have a delightful midweek run to Clunes on the first Wednesday in November and especially I would like to draw your attention to the two major annual Club events planned for next month.
Firstly, our Annual Club Concours to be held at Cruden Farm on Sunday November 19, which will be a great opportunity to display the very best of our club cars in a grand garden setting. Coinciding with the Aston Martin club concours and a public open day at Cruden Farm this will be a spectacular event.
Secondly, our Annual Christmas Party, this year to be held at club member Gerald Swinnerton’s country property in Kyneton on Sunday December 3. A Christmas themed spit roast lunch will be provided and our annual club awards and Concours trophy winners will be announced. Details of both events are in this newsletter and on our website.
What a marvellous way to bring home a very successful year for our Club.
Enjoy!
Howard Wraight