Fletch makes his annual excursion to Portland, Victoria, for the Portland Classics by the Bay. The event has attracted hundreds of participants over the years, and this year is no exception. Event organiser Craig is one of the first people Fletch tracks down to ask about his 1974 Holden Torana SLR sedan. Craig has had the car for 30 years, 20 of which were in a shed, where it was stored. In the early years of his ownership, it underwent several modifications, as did many of these models, but it wasn't till much later that Craig decided to restore the vehicle to its original showroom condition. It still had all the matching numbers, and he even put the original engine back in place.
Next up is Lisa with her 1970 Holden HG wagon in original condition, with all the dings and knocks of its 50-year history, and that's just the way she likes it. The HG features the ever-reliable 186 Red engine, which she says starts every time, along with three on the tree that many people today would not understand how to drive. With all its battle scars and tears in the upholstery, Lisa still loves driving the car today. She says, "it takes me back to the '70s and the good times; my HG is an absolute beauty."
A vehicle you don't often see is a 1936 Auburn 852 Super Phaeton; here is a beautiful example of this rare car with the one owner for 45 years. Terry has spent 20 years restoring the car, which was in a pretty sad state when acquired. It required a complete rebuild to bring it back to its beautiful condition today. Delivered from the USA as a RHD vehicle, that's quite unusual in itself.
Another great vehicle is Pastor John's 1956 Cadillac Sedan De Ville that he imported 17 years ago. Back then, John already owned a Cadillac that required extensive work, so when he was looking online at options to restore, he came across this vehicle. When looking at Cadillacs, the car's main area for him was the engine bay, as many of the Cadillacs had been broken down for parts, but his one was complete in every respect. So rather than restore, he purchased another. John believes in maintaining these vehicles, and we are merely temporary custodians for future generations.
Finally, Steve, with his original 1969 VF Valiant Pacer with the Pacer 225 6 cylinder engine, is in beautiful condition, repainted some time ago in the original paint scheme of Cosmic Blue. An original car complete with tombstone bucket seats.
