President’s Report - September 2026
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.
I also acknowledge the passing of John Link. John was a true motoring enthusiast, with interests spanning veteran cars through to the more modern classics. Many would remember an early midweek run and visit to Link Pumps, a business that he spent much of his life building.
Although not an RROCA member, George Hetral also passed recently. Many in the motoring movement would remember George, and in particular his vehicle collection and property, “Como Gardens”, complete with its miniature railway, where he hosted many a car club function.
Our sympathies and condolences go to all the families and friends touched by the passing of Gary, John and George.
On a brighter note, our club enjoyed a fabulous time in Gippsland for our Regional Meeting. Our activities included a visit to the Trafalgar Holden Museum, a meeting and presentation on the Gippsland Vehicle Collection at the Maffra Shed at the Maffra Community Sports Club, a visit to Narkoojee Winery and the Light Horse Museum.
But the highlight for me, and many others, was the visit to Alan Wilson’s collection. Al’s Garage contains an example of every Mazda MX-5 produced and is widely admired by many, including Mazda royalty from Japan.
The “other” side of the garage covers more of the British marques, including Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Austin-Healey, MG and Aston Martin. These are complemented by an authentic Australian Ford GT, some EH Holdens and a rather special Porsche.
More astounding than the collection itself was the hospitality shown to club members by Alan and Debbie — absolutely divine. Our sincere thanks go to Alan and Debbie, who have invited us back for a club BBQ. Add to these attractions some lovely country cuisine, and a great weekend was enjoyed by all. A big thank you to everyone who participated.
So, we are approaching the pointy end of the year, with some real highlights to look forward to.
Our Annual Club Concours and Display Day will be held at Cruden Farm on Sunday, 22 November, and nothing would be better than having all of our club turn up to support the display. I would also like to encourage you to consider entering your car in the Concours. It’s a great way to really get to know your car and receive constructive feedback from some marque experts.
We also have our Annual Christmas and Awards Lunch in December. Please ensure you book early and take the opportunity, before the Christmas chaos sets in, to spend some quality time with your club colleagues. This year we are at the Beaumaris Motor Yacht Squadron on Tuesday, 8 December.
Have you booked for Federal Rally 2027? A fabulous event is planned, so please book now and don’t risk missing out.
We have lots of fun and entertaining activities coming up, along with the ever-popular technical sessions, so please keep an eye on your emails and the club calendar for more information.
Finally, I ask you to spare a thought for Nepal and Tibet, with over 700 people to date having lost their lives in the floods. More are still missing, including more than 40 Australians.
Drive safe.
Keith Mortimer
