Veteran and Vintage MCC of SA

Run to Collingrove Hill Climb, 4th November 2007

I awoke Sunday morning to the gentle sound of rain on the roof, not a good start I thought. However by the time I had dressed and had breakfast the rain had stopped. When I arrived at Pelican Plaza car park at approximately 9.30am, I was surprised to find a good number of members assembled. I think the final number to depart after roll call was sixteen or seventeen bikes, 1 Morgan and three backup vehicles, thanks to those members who supplied these, I don’t think on the day they were needed?

At just after 10am, Malcolm “Club Captain” Gray led us off at a good pace to our first stop at Williamstown under the old gum tree. The town was like a hive of activity because of the town market and there were any street stalls to be seen. We left via Chain of Ponds and Williamstown, encountered a windy shower of rain, but I think this was the only rain on the run.

We then travelled to Lyndoch then just before Tanunda we turned off through Bethany up and over Menglers Hill. This climb was a concern for Leon Mitchell. At Williamstown, Leon tightened the belt on his veteran Rudge by shaving about an inch off the belt, but Leon and the Rudge made it up to the top with a run up from the lookout car park (Question: Did Leon make it all the way up the hill? Or get to the car park and run the rest? ED) (Answer: The Rudge gathered some new energy at the car park, and romped the rest of the way up. I blame it on the tall gearing... Leon)

When we got to the Collingrove turn of, we re-grouped and arrived in as a group. An area was set aside for us near the starting grid along side the Barossa Valley Machinery Preservation display where old engine were merrily chuffing away.

During the lunch break we were given a run up the hill as in previous years. This time however we had to follow a ‘pace’ car up the hill which was quite slow. We were quite disappointed to put it mildly. I expressed my disappointment and was told that of after they cars had had their run we could have another go up the hill (I think someone was smiling now – ED). Mr. Club Captain said I had to go first, thanks Malcolm (now I know there was a very big smile on his face at this time- ED). This time I had a good go at it. Terrific. (Lost for words here Rob – ED).

After the runs completed we set off to return via Springton, Birdwood finishing at Tea Tree Plaza.

Thanks to the back up trailers and Secretary Peter Yates who had supplied wooden boards to put under the stands, as we were on grassed area. Thanks must also go to the Vintage Section of the Sporting Car Club of SA for inviting us to participate on the day.

Rob Smyth (ex CC)

Last updated 22 November 2007