26th ANNUAL 356 PARADE:
This year Michael and I decided to stay at the Bayview on the Park for the Porsche Parade weekend, and what a good decision that was. There were lots of other Porsche 'family' members there so it was easy to catch up and strangely there was always a 'family' member in the bar when we walked past, so we spent a bit of time in there, which was very pleasant.

Friday night saw us in the bar before sharing a taxi with brothers Geoff and Colin to the Vine Hotel. More catching up and then the AGM was held, the best AGM for any car club I have been to (and there have been a few over the years). I know the words AGM can strike fear into the hearts of members of car clubs but Wayne really knows how to run this show. Very informal and relaxed, the committee members and state secretary’s give their reports amid much ribbing and laughter, very entertaining and informative.

By Kathy Parker
Full Story on Page 14 of December Magazine

WESTERN WAFFLE:
The Western Australian group had calendared Sunday September 18 for a spring drive through the picturesque Chittering Valley, in the Perth Darling Ranges. A spirited drive followed the Sculpture trail along the 25 kilometre tourist drive 359. On offer were empty roads, green and pleasant valley views, new born lambs, wildflowers and the perfume of citrus blossom from the orchards that the region is famous for.

Unfortunately, as can happen in spring, the weather report was for frequent showers and indeed they did occur in the coast and deterred many from venturing out. The brave who did the 60km drive from the city to the Perth hills found only scudding clouds and nary a drop of rain. After a 60 km run through the valley we retreated to the rustic Stringybark winery and cottage restaurant and over a delicious lunch did experience a nice drop of red.

By John Lambie
Full Story on Page 16 of December Magazine

TAILS FROM THE NORTH:
Ahazy day, but hot and fine saw the first contingent of cars gather at the old GMH factory. This used to be a landmark in Brisbane, but anyone who wasn’t here 20 years ago would scarcely know it was there.

Tony and Lisbeth van der Drift in the Togo Brown C, Colin Starkey in the Slate Grey T5, Steve Newland and son Matthew in the silver T5, Robert Riddel in the Ruby Red T5, Iain and Ann Nowell in the racing red A coupe, Annie and I in the ivory A, with the Ellis’ and Ashbrooks in moderns, Wolf and Leigh Grodd in the “guest”1964 Excalibur mit supercharger, and the pretend 356’s of Adrian and Maryanne Harding and Bill and Vivian Stekhoven, both black 911's.

The 356 "Godfather" Maurie Swanson also joined us for the trip this year, but he was reluctant to adopt any Marlon Brando tactics, and didn't like the idea of talking with cotton wool to achieve the effect. As he is only a couple of months away from his 80th birthday, I think he can pretty much do whatever he wants, and as far as fixing 356's go, he probably has already!

By Greg Riddel
Full Story on Page 20 of December Magazine