Fletch continues his road trip to Mudgee and uncovers more enthusiasts and their classics.
Graham has been a resident of Mudgee for 38 years and considers himself almost a local; his Mini Moke is well known in these parts. The origin of the vehicle is something that fascinates Fletch. In 1969, Graham and his wife acquired the Moke from an Australian Airforce serviceman in Malaysia, who was returning home. When they decided to return to Australia, his wife, in particular, couldn't be parted from the Mini Moke and decided to bring it home with them. Over the years, it served the family well, with many great memories for them and their children. But over time, it ended up out the back in a paddock. It wasn't until their granddaughter expressed interest in the "truck", as she called it, out in the paddock that the ground-up restoration began. Graham professed that he has no experience in panel beating, welding or painting but took on the task with the support of his wife to restore the Mini Moke to its current condition. The restoration process regenerated all the great memories this little vehicle had brought the family, and it looks like it will continue.
Fletch uncovers another classic, a 1955 Studebaker owned by Ken, the President of the Gudegong Pioneer Vehicle Club. Ken claims he has always loved Studebakers, especially their unique design and features compared to other cars of their time. The car was originally from WA, fully restored in 2002 before coming to NSW in 2010. It has distinctive styling, as do all Studebakers, and today cruises comfortably on a 110Kpm and can run all day long.
Fletch, a staunch supporter of the local communities, comes across the Stein Classic Motorcycle Collection and Winery, all the good things in life in one location. Third-generation family member Jack runs the property that was a 25-acre hobby farm and now boasts some 600 acres of farm, vineyards, a winery and a restaurant, all centred around another great passion of his forefather - motorcycles. The Stein Motorcycle Collection consists of 17 motorcycles from the '20s and '40s and a collection of motoring memorabilia and collectibles. Another excellent reason to stop in Mudgee.
