The National Motor Museum - Birdwood SA: Classic Restos Series 34

Nestled in the Adelaide Hills in Birdwood is the National Motor Museum, opened in 1964 and taken over by the Government in 1976 and home to a significant historical collection of cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Many people would know the National Museum in Birdwood as the end point for the 'Bay to Birdwood' Classic, Australia's most significant motoring event that is likened to events such as 'Pebble Beach Concours' in the US and the 'London to Brighton' event in the UK. This year's event to be held in the last week in September is expected to attract over 1,750 entrants and around 60,000 people expected to watch the rally from various viewpoints along the journey.  

Before entering the Museum proper,  Museum Director, Paul Rees takes Fletch through the Old Flour Mill built in the 1800's and the original home of the Museum that now comprises three levels of automotive history in books, manual photographs and so much more. The George Brookes library collection is reputed to be one of the largest automotive collections in the Southern Hemisphere and a valuable source of information for enthusiasts across Australia.

Fletch steps into the Modern National Museum building to be overwhelmed by the displays of Automotive history and seeks out some unique vehicles, firstly a homemade vehicle from right her in SA, made from repurposed Truck and Farm machinery and named the Albert Ohl Meyer Jigger dating back to 1904. Then a more recent addition is 'Bigfoot' a vehicle that featured in the Mad Max Movie 'Beyond Thunderdome' and driven by Angry Anderson. Around every corner, Fletch is amazed by interactive displays and vehicles and then a collection of 120 Motorcycles. So if you're visiting Adelaide, a trip to Birdwood and the National Museum is a must see. Why not make it the reason to go to South Australia you won't be disappointed.