Month in review.
Dear members,
They're saying spring is here, but we're yet to be convinced.. We do hope that you're all making the most of the sunshine we are getting, and those who took the trip to Bathurst this weekend are managing to stay warm and dry!
Our month started on 3 September with Round 6 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown. We had quite a few members attend, who also helped Graeme celebrate his birthday with an amazing cake, thanks to Lucy Walsh.
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6 September was our AGM at the German Tivoli Club where all of our committee were re-voted in for another year. We have some really great things coming up over the next 12 months and we can't wait to share them with you.
On 17 September we had 30 beautiful cars attend our display for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championship Display at Sandown. The day started off cold but sunny and there was rain forecast, but we were all praying it would stay dry. A big congratulations to Glenn Kenneday and Simon Lyne for taking equal first in the people’s choice award. They each received a $100 gift voucher to spend with Jay Lenos Garage Advanced Vehicle Care. Thanks also to Shannons Insurance and Motorsport Australia for putting on a great event, despite the rain, hail and frosty conditions.
While at the event Graeme Bell also received a "Fabulous Official" award from Motorsport Australia for his contribution and efforts in officiating at various motorsport events. Congratulations Graeme! You can read more about this award in this months' Speed Read.
18 September was our drive to Shepparton BMW, who are our newest dealer and sponsor to come on board and our first regional dealer. Peter Williams, although not in attendance due to illness, organised a fantastic drive for us. On arriving at Shepparton BMW, we were greeted by a nice hot meal waiting for us and hot coffee to boot. Aaron Brain, the Dealer Principal, took us for a tour of the dealership and then showed us some of the new lifestyle merchandise. This followed a quick drive south to the MOVE museum, where there was a great variety of cars, bikes, trucks, phones, radios, stereos, and a really eclectic collection of fashion which spanned over 200 years. If you are ever in the area, it is a must see.
20 September was our regular regional Drop In Donuts night which always goes down a treat. Who doesn’t like coffee, cars and donuts? It's the perfect combination! Thank you Lawrence for arranging once again, it has really become a really popular night.
23 September saw around 12 of our members racing at Philip Island at the VSCRC Round 5/E30 Racing Championship. Congratulations to Alex Jory for taking home another round win.
We also had a high number of members who volunteered their time to officiate at the Island. We'd like to extend a big thank you to those who did volunteer, you really do make a huge difference. These events just can't happen without your help.
On 27 September we finished the month with a Zoom meeting calling for more club helpers. It was really great to speak with you all and see how you may be able to help the club. We even have a circus coach amongst our members! It will be great to see what we can get him doing at some of our family days.
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
Welcome to our new members Seth Winkles, Theo Loukas, Rocco Spinley, Isabelle Boers Thornbury, Rob Voerman, Annette Voerman, Robert McQualter, Pavlos Flourentzou, Tracey Mulvogue, Jordan Wentworth and Ian Burke. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
Don't forget to catch up with this month's update from our President, Graeme Bell here.
Important Updates.
EMAILS TO THE COMMITTEE
Unfortunately due to some technical issues, the committee's emails were down from approximately Thursday evening to Friday evening. If you have emailed any of the committee members in the last 72 hours, please re-send your email as we may not have received it.
CLUB PERMIT RENEWALS AND INSPECTIONS (Hastings)
Please note that club permit inspections and renewals will no longer be accepted through Bell Motorsport, unless a prior appointment has been made.
If you have a Club Permit renewal that you need signed, please instead visit 213 Marine Parade, Hastings between 10am and 4pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday. If you cannot attend during these hours please call Jo on 0412 661 900 to arrange a suitable time.
If you have a new vehicle that you would like inspected to be added to the Club Permit Scheme please call Jo on the number above to book in a time.
Now that the weather is improving and much more inviting for our club permitted vehicles, please make sure you ensure your permit is current. If your permit is not current (or if you drive the vehicle without completing your logbook), the vehicle is considered unregistered. If you are caught driving an unregistered vehicle, the fine is now over $900, plus a potential loss of demerit points.
The month ahead.
Here's what we've got planned in October:
Friday - Sunday, 8-9 October Motorclassica 2022 Special Display - celebrate 50 Years of M with BMW AustraliaIt's a great weekend to get down to the Royal Exhibition Building if you're around Melbourne - we have a number of M cars on display. BMW Group Australia also have the new M2 available for viewing prior to its official release next week (we can tell you we are really impressed!). Tuesday, 11 October October members meeting and swap meetHave your got a box of bits that have just been collecting dust in your garage, or are you looking for that special little something to finish your project? This is the perfect opportunity to bring your junk for others who think it is their treasure. Saturday, 22 October Motum Simulator Challenge Have you always dreamt of driving a Formula 1 car, V8 Supercar or even a DTM race car? Join us for an evening of exciting and ultra-realistic Virtual Reality racing simulation at MOTUM Simulators in Southbank. Sunday, 23 October Future Vehicle Expo We have been invited to display 16 cars "from over the decades" focusing on what is most likely to be our motoring future - electric vehicles. Tuesday, 25 October - Wednesday, 2 November Tasmania Driving Tour Unfortunately registrations are closed for our Tassie driving tour. We can't wait to spend the week in Tassie with those who are registered. If you've missed out this time, keep an eye on our website for another trip in the future!
Friday - Sunday, 8-9 October Motorclassica 2022 Special Display - celebrate 50 Years of M with BMW AustraliaIt's a great weekend to get down to the Royal Exhibition Building if you're around Melbourne - we have a number of M cars on display. BMW Group Australia also have the new M2 available for viewing prior to its official release next week (we can tell you we are really impressed!). Tuesday, 11 October October members meeting and swap meetHave your got a box of bits that have just been collecting dust in your garage, or are you looking for that special little something to finish your project? This is the perfect opportunity to bring your junk for others who think it is their treasure. Saturday, 22 October Motum Simulator Challenge Have you always dreamt of driving a Formula 1 car, V8 Supercar or even a DTM race car?
Join us for an evening of exciting and ultra-realistic Virtual Reality racing simulation at MOTUM Simulators in Southbank. Sunday, 23 October Future Vehicle Expo We have been invited to display 16 cars "from over the decades" focusing on what is most likely to be our motoring future - electric vehicles. Tuesday, 25 October - Wednesday, 2 November Tasmania Driving Tour Unfortunately registrations are closed for our Tassie driving tour. We can't wait to spend the week in Tassie with those who are registered. If you've missed out this time, keep an eye on our website for another trip in the future!
Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar to stay up to date with our events. If you're attending a social drive or weekend away, we recommend checking out our event tips to help you get the best out of the event.
News & Blog.
Our blog page on the website is constantly being updated with not just club news, but everything BMW from all around the world! We welcome you to submit any articles of your own.
Club blog.
We're not just BMW people
Drive to Shepparton BMW and MOVE museum
Shannons Motorsport Australia Championship
New Club Office
BMW around the globe.
BMW Clubs International Council announces new Chairman
Motorsport Australia
Speed Read
From the Welfare Team.
"Being strong means refusing to tolerate people and things that wound your soul. It means practicing self-care when you’re hurting. It means doing what makes happy and being with people who make you feel good."
Click here for Welfare Team updates and their contact details.
Classifieds.
Have you seen our classifieds page?
Want to sell something? Looking for a specific item? Email us today to list your car/parts/anything BMW related!
idrive magazine.
Everyone has their own BMW story - we'd love to share yours.
Email us to feature in our very own idrive magazine.
Club partners.
Members are welcome to submit their business to be shared on the Club Partners page on our website and idrive magazine. We believe in supporting those who support us. If you would like your business listed email us with your details.
As always - thanks for reading, we look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
President | Graeme Bell 0407 186 296 Vice President | Jo Mawson 0412 661 900 Secretary | Lawrence Glynn 0414 563 290 Treasurer | Shaaron Glynn
Cover photo by Paul Holliday. Proudly supported by: All Commercial/All Residential Real Estate Adex Detailing
Bell Motorsport
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Spring is here and September has been a mix of weather, but as I write this it is beautiful outside and it is looking promising for upcoming events.
3 September was Round 6 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship, and as always, we had a great turn out with so many BMWs on the track. It just happened to be my birthday and Jo had arranged with a few of the members to do a surprise birthday at the track for me, which was lovely. Thank you especially to Lucy Walsh for the very decadent chocolate cake which didn’t go to waste. Unfortunately Jo was rushed into hospital with bowel obstructions earlier in the morning, so she was not there to celebrate, but with covid restrictions still in place I was told, very sternly by Jo, to attend as I would not be allowed into the ED and would only be sitting home worrying. Instead I worried at the track but had lots to keep my occupied through the day, and my kids and granddaughter all came to surprise me too. Thank you all for making my day special.
6 September was our AGM at the German Tivoli Club and so many attended which was fantastic. Our committee were re-voted in for another year and we hope to do you all proud.
On 17 September we had 30 beautiful cars attend our display for the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championship Display at Sandown. The day started off cold but sunny and there was rain forecast, but we were all praying it would stay dry. Cars all set up, flags and banners up, people choice voting cards handed out and not long after, the heavens opened up. I can say I have not been this cold and wet at a racetrack for many years. I would like to congratulate Glenn Kenneday and Simon Lyne for taking equal first in the people’s choice award and also, I would like to thank Jay Lenos Garage Advanced Vehicle Care for donating 2 x $100 gift vouchers for the lucky winners. I would like to also thank Shannons Insurance and Motorsport Australia for putting on a great event, despite the rain, hail and frosty conditions, all who attended really had a great time.
Jo and I had arrived early as I was told we had to attend the officials briefing. I was wondering why because we weren't officiating. But I soon realised I was receiving an award, and I was humbled by being awarded a service award for Fabulous Official. These awards are handed out to officials who go above and beyond their duties and it was a great honour to receive this.
18 September was our drive to Shepparton BMW, who are our newest dealer and sponsor to come on board and our first regional dealer. We met early to find that the service station had no power so no fuel and no food. A quick re-think and we were all heading to Wallan for a refuel of cars and bodies. Another great drive by Peter Williams, who sadly did not attend due to feeling unwell, but as always, his instructions were faultless and gave us some amazing driving roads. On arriving at Shepparton BMW, we were met by some members who had taken the option of meeting us there, as they all lived close to Shepp. It was good to have a nice hot meal waiting for us and hot coffee to boot. Aaron Brain, the Dealer Principal, took us for a tour of the dealership and then showed us some of the new lifestyle merchandise, which went down well with most of our members, and it was great to see members buying new merchandise. This followed a quick drive south to the MOVE museum, which I must admit was better than I had expected. There was a great variety of cars, bikes, trucks, phones, radios, stereos, and a really eclectic collection of fashion which spanned over 200 years. If you are in the area, it is a must see. Don’t miss the chocolate apple shop too, there's great treats inside for everyone.
20 September was the regional Drop In Donuts night which always goes down a treat. Who doesn’t like coffee, cars and donuts? What a fantastic combination. Thank you Lawrence for arranging this event, it has really become a popular night.
23 September saw around 12 of our members racing at Philip Island at the VSCRC Round 5/E30 Racing Championship. This event is always light on for officials due to it falling on grand final weekend. Jo put out a call for help and it was so wonderful to see so many of our members put their hands up to help out. Some only did one day, some only half a day, but others did the whole weekend which made life so much easier for all the officials running this event. It was really hard, as being an extra long weekend with the day of mourning for the Queen on the Thursday, accommodation was scarce and we really appreciate all who came and helped out. Jo was in the secretary’s office and was exhausted at the end of the event. She thanks those who helped her, with out their help it would have been a very hard event to run. Want to help at an event, go to Working With Children’s Check and complete this application, nominate BMW Drivers club, Motorsport Australia and Victorian Flag Marshalling as your preferred volunteering clubs then go to Motorsport Australia and complete your general official licence. All of this is free and just takes only a few minutes of your time, then you are licensed to help out.
On 27 September we finished the month with a Zoom meeting for a call for more club helpers. Who would have thought what talent was going to be unveiled on the night! We have a circus coach amongst our members, and it will be great to see what we can get him doing at some of our family days.
Moving on to October, this month is going to be jam packed.
2 October we have the Euroa Car Show, which has attracted a lot of interest.
Some of us are also heading North to Bathurst to Officiate, so look out for us on TV! It was nice to know that Jo and my story about officiating at Bathurst in our latest idrive, generated interest in our members and spurred them on to register for this great event. We're looking forward to catching up with you all up there.
From 7-9 October we will be celebrating 50 years of ///M at Motorclassica with BMW Group Australia. This is going to be a fantastic event and I am really sorry that we will miss this. All the spots are now taken, and I am sure Lawrence will put on another fantastic display, along with the cars from BMW Group Australia.
On 11 October we are holding our swap meet at all Marque Storage Cheltenham. Be sure to register, bring along that dusty box in the corner of your shed, your junk is someone else’s treasure. Remember there is cash only on the night.
There will be a BBQ on the night, and we also have the Lux Coach there for those who want to sit back and just be spoilt. Bring your partners and let then enjoy the luxury of the Lux Coach.
16 October was scheduled as our Hill Climb, but due to very slow registrations we have cancelled this event. If you had entered, you will receive a full refund.
22 October is our Motum Simulator Challenge, which sold out very quickly and we are looking at holding another one very soon. Look out for the Motum Simulator Challenge cup in 2023, it will be a lot of fun.
23 October is the Future Vehicle Expo.
On 25 October we have a large group of members heading off to Tasmania for a week touring on some amazing roads and great drive days again coordinated by Peter Williams. Look out for some great photos from this event.
Events to look out for:
2022
BMW Drivers Club Melbourne have started a new reward program which will give all members old and new the opportunity to win some great prizes. Each quarter we will do a draw of all members who have renewed their membership, joined as a new member and also referred a new member. How does this work? Well, if you pay your membership, your name goes in the running for a prize. If you join the club as a new member, your name goes in the running for a prize. If you refer a new member, ask them to put your name in the “Referred By” section of the application and your name goes in the running for a prize. Refer 10 new members, your name goes in 10 times. Simple.
We have been looking at new ways of rewarding our members and sponsors who have stayed loyal to us through COVID and this we feel is a great way of saying thank you. This will start from 1 October and run concurrently. All winners will be announced in the newsletter and on Facebook.
We have been working on an exciting new initiative with the AOMC to offset Carbon Emissions from our petrol or diesel driven cars. Keep an eye out for the announcement in the coming days and then jump on board to help the whole car movement become greener.
Day light savings kicks in again this weekend so that means a return of our very popular twilight drives. Keep an eye out on your emails for these to be added, they were very popular last summer, and we look forward to running them at all corners of Melbourne and surrounds through summer again.
Merchandise is selling well, and it is fantastic to see our members at events or out in the world wearing our Club merchandise. So, go here and order yours or come to an event and purchase some.
We also have some news regarding the Club ‘home’. Up until now the Club has been operating out of the office and workshop space of our business, Bell Motorsport, which is great, but at the same time has meant a lot of extra ‘stuff’ packed into our workshop and office. This extra load, as well as the growth in our business has necessitated an expansion of our business to a second location, a couple of hundred yards down the road at 213 Marine Parade, Hastings. There is a lovely office and showroom there, where Jo will be setting up and running the Club ‘office’. This will be the place to go for anything Club related, Club Permit Renewals, Merchandise, having a chat and a coffee… whatever. We will also be holding an event there in the coming months, to welcome everyone along for a look at what we are doing. Give Jo a call before heading down on 0412 661 900 to arrange a time and please head there first and only if not attended call in to the old workshop.
As always, welcome to all the new members, the club continues to grow and build upon everything we have done to date, which is fantastic to see.
Your committee is working on some great new events for 2023, along with all your favourites, so check in on the calendar from time to time and keep an eye out for the event emails.
Take care out there and I look forward to seeing you at an event somewhere soon.
Graeme Bell | President BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
PO Box 81, Tyabb VIC 3913 Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695G BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of: BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International Council Motorsport Australia Affiliated Motorsport Club
As most of you know BMW Drivers Club Melbourne has been working out of the office of Bell Motorsport since the beginning. For the most part this has worked well but has slowed productivity down slightly, as we all know how people get when they see cars, we all want to look and chat about them.
The club has grown so rapidly (and so has Bell Motorsport) and jointly we have taken on a new yard with nice new offices where you can go for all of your club needs. Jo will be there now from 10am to 4pm (earlier if prior notice given) on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Friday (closed Wednesday), please call Jo on 0412661900 to make an appointment.
Please do not come straight to Bell Motorsport, as we are trying to get all the club's things moved to the new premises to make things run smoothly.
Feel free to pop in and see Jo, have a coffee, look at the merchandise or just say hi, as it will be our new one stop shop.
We will be holding a few events from here too so watch out for events coming up soon.
Graeme Bell | Member #1 | President BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
BMW Clubs and Community Management of the BMW Group Classic announces that the BMW Clubs International Council has a new chairman. Scott E. Blazey (71), from the United States of America, has been elected to the position, succeeding David de Bruyn from the Republic of South Africa who unexpectedly passed away earlier this year. David de Bruyn was Chairman of the World Council for nine years and has set the decisive course for successfully preparing the BMW Clubs International Council for the future.
Scott E. Blazey is a former president of the BMW Car Club of America (BMW CCA), the largest BMW club in the world. He also served as the president of the Kansas City BMW Club, chairman of BMW CCA Club Racing, a delegate to the BMW Clubs International Council, and is currently a trustee of the BMW CCA Foundation, a separate, non-profit charity that promotes teen driver safety among other things.
Blazey says about the future of the BMW Clubs International Council: “The goals for the Council are simple. Building on the previous achievements of the council, we will continue to help existing BMW clubs grow; help new BMW clubs get started; work with the BMW Group Classic to foster a sense of community with and enthusiasm for the brand; and do what’s right to help BMW club members worldwide enjoy the very best possible BMW and BMW club experience.”
Scott E. Blazey is now also introducing himself to the BMW Club community and giving a deeper insight into his enthusiasm for BMW and the BMW Clubs:
Scott E. Blazey: The first time I really noticed BMW was at the 1973 24 Hours of Le Mans, when I watched the BMW 3.0 CSL (#51) win its class. I bought my first BMW less than two years later, but it was not a car. It was a BMW R75/6 motorcycle. My first BMW automobile, a BMW 2002, came less than a year later and from then on, I have always owned and driven BMWs.
Scott E. Blazey: I was with the U.S. Army in Germany when I took delivery of my BMW R75/6 motorcycle in 1975 and joined my first BMW Club, which was the BMW Club Bad Windsheim. It was there I first experienced the camaraderie, fun, and sense of community from BMW enthusiasts.
Scott E. Blazey: BMW automobiles and motorcycles are great fun to drive but even more, they generate in many of their owners an enthusiasm for driving and for sharing the BMW experience. I love motorsports and through BMW Clubs I have gone racing wheel-to-wheel, won time-speed-distance rallies, and traveled all over the U.S.A and the world. Through it all I met and continue to meet fellow BMW enthusiasts who have become many of my best friends.
As chairman of the BMW Clubs International Council Board, Blazey receives support from Trevor Dean (Vice President Motorrad), Dr. Bernhard Knöchlein (Vice President Classic) and Julio Reyes (Vice President Automobile).
The BMW Clubs International Council (BCIC) was officially founded in July 1981 by Helmut Werner Bösch, then board member of the BMW Club Europe e.V., and Dr. Horst Avenarius (BMW AG).
The BCIC consists of 20 delegates, 16 of whom come from the international BMW Club umbrella associations and four from the BMW Group Classic. The respective number of regional members determines the composition. In addition, each BMW Club umbrella organization can be accompanied by independent observers during the annual Council Meeting. They complement the BMW Clubs International Council.
The BMW Clubs International Council currently represents more than 230,000 BMW Club members in around 800 recognized clubs in 78 countries.
BMW PRESS
Event date: 17 September 2022
BMWDCM were invited to participate in a vehicle display on Saturday. 30 vehicles, including five non-marques, were in attendance; all participants met at the Sandown Park Hotel at 7.30 a.m., then proceeded directly to the raceway at 8am.
Lawrence handed out laminated vehicle information sheets to be displayed in the respective windscreens, which was an excellent way to provide the relevant information to racegoers.
Graeme and Jo attended an officials briefing at 7.30am at the race course, where Graeme was recognised and presented with a "Fabulous Official" award -well done!
On entering the racecourse Lawrence directed our display vehicles into pre-arranged parking order for viewing.
Race classes for the day were as follows:
Jo gave each member a blank sheet of paper to register the member's choice award on the cars displayed. Thanks to Jay Leno Garage Products for donating two $100 gift vouchers. The winners of these awards were Simon Lynne and Glenn Kenneday - congratulations to both winners.
Unfortunately the weather deteriorated after lunch, which saw quite a few heavy downpours, culminating in a flooded track. The GT Challenge race was called off half way through, due to the weather. The drivers of these incredible cars, including Garth Tander and Shane van Gisbergen stated they had never previously raced in weather like this.
Sitting in the grandstand with the wind blowing and pouring rain was absolutely freezing. We were all glad to retreat to our warm cars when the racing was stopped early. Despite the inclement weather, our display vehicles had a lot of passing foot traffic, and was well worth it.
Another great function organised by the BMWDCM - thanks to all involved.
Jeff Palmer | Member #682 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Event date: 18 September 2022
Well, the day didn’t get off to a good start with the Donnybrook service station suffering a power failure and as such no fuel pumps were working. Then there were late arrivals due to Donnybrook Road being closed and let’s not even mention the overcast weather. Due to all the issues Lawrence had to do some quick recalculations and decided that we would go to the Wallan Road Stop for fuel.
After a pep talk from Jo, the 20 attending vehicles started towards our destination and only a few kms down the road, someone asked if we should take the Northern HWY. After hearing a yes, half of us went off track. Once some of these stragglers got fuel, we set off again determined to get back with the main group.
I took the lead and promptly took the group down the wrong road and was immediately relinquished of the lead duties. The stragglers eventually joined the main group at the Wallan Truck Stop and after another pep talk from Jo we headed off on the Hume Fwy to get back on our scheduled drive.
Along the Hume Jo pointed out the rooster tree (that you can see past the second Clonbinane exit sign) and it sure does look like a rooster up on the hill, so look out for it next time you’re on the Hume.
We got off the Hume Hwy at Broadford, many of us wanted to turn right to have a few laps of the track, but left we went to continue to drive to Shepparton. The roads were wet and it rained occasionally but the back roads were an absolute delight to drive on. The scenery and the sea of green was breathtaking, well for any passengers, as the drivers were concentrating on the curves and avoiding the fallen trees and debris. Whilst driving we learnt what a caveat was with another dictionary lesson from Jo. When we reached the Caveat sign it delighted Jo immensely but by this stage we were all in driving mode and we continued on our journey.
We had a short stop at Seymour for a toilet break and stretch of the legs. Then off again towards Shepparton. After a wonderful two hours of driving we arrived at the most magnificent Shepparton BWM dealership. Awaiting us was a wonderful paella lunch and complimentary coffee. The renovations and new look of the dealership are the first of its kind in Australia and third in the world, in line with BMWs goal of being carbon neutral by 2050.
The dealer principal Aaron Brain advised us they are going all in on sustainability and this dealership proved that that as they have 100kw of solar power on the roof and 45,000l water tank. We got to look around the dealership and the magnificently clean workshop which has taken the capability of the Shepparton BWM dealership from being able to service 10 cars a day to 35 a day! Several of us sat in the new iX M60 and M40 and we marvelled at the build quality and beautiful seats.
After an hour of so of enjoying Shepparton BMW's hospitality we moved on to the MOVE museum. MOVE museum has an amazing array of vehicles, including motor-cycles, trucks and cycles. My favourite was the 2007 Aston Martin Vantage such a classic Bond vehicle. If you’re ever in Shepparton, MOVE museum is a great place to stop. After we walked around and took it all in we made our separate ways back home, with some of us adjourning to local accommodation to make a night of it. Thanks again to Jo, Lawrence and the club for a great drive.
Luke Devlin | Member #738 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Car-boy. That's what my girlfriend, Sarah, calls me. I hate it, but thing is, she's correct. I love cars, and all sorts of them. German cars, American muscle cars, pompous British cars, Japanese cars, and of course, BMWs. I have a number of old BMWs and over the past couple of years I’ve added a 1964 Mercedes-Benz 230SL, a 1994 Dodge Viper, a 2010 Jaguar XKR and a 1990 Honda Prelude 4ws to the garage.
In the 5 years I’ve been a BMWDCM member, I’ve met lots of fellow club members who like me, have a diverse car collection. The sad thing is that we rarely get to see them. It made me think: how can I gather all my Club friends in one place with their "other" lovely machines? The answer was obvious: Cars & Coffee. I've always wanted to host an event for the club, and I figured why not do something a little different and break the mould, why not host a BMW Drivers Club Melbourne event and ask members to bring a non-BMW car or bike.
I asked our members, what else is in your garage? Come bring something different and join me for a coffee and a chat. And the BMWDCM "What else is in your garage cars, bikes & coffee" was born.
This was my first official club hosting event and I wanted to make sure it worked for members. I needed to find somewhere with plenty of parking, preferably undercover, easily accessible with lots of foot traffic and most importantly, close to a caffeine source. I searched far and wide for venues, but the ideal spot was just around the corner from my house (shamefully convenient).
I was walking my girlfriend’s dog, Raffy, one evening and still racking my brain about where to host the Cars & Coffee event. As I was walking towards Murrumbeena train station, I suddenly found it. This is the spot! It ticked all the boxes: it was easy to access (many of our club members live within 10kms), there was plenty of parking and undercover area, a busy thoroughfare nearby with people jogging, walking, biking and scooting, and most crucially, multiple amazing cafes within 50m of the spot.
So, I had my event and location decided. Now I thought, ‘how am I going to attract members to this event?’ This is the hardest part. Social media is such a strong advertising tool, and I figured if I continuously promote the event (without being annoying) on our Facebook page then I have a strong chance of a great turn out.
My plan was simple: a single weekly post in the month prior and then in the week of the event, I upped the promoting. I received an email from Vice-President Jo Mawson advising me that 50 people had registered to attend, so I was confident that we would have a good showing.
Then it was showtime. It’s not often that I can bring more than one car to a BMWDCM event without the help of a friend or family member to drive the second car, but in this instance, I didn't need one. The venue was so close to my house that I could literally walk home and drive over another car.
Just as I was walking back to collect my second car, my phone began to ring - "Where are you? We're here". It was only 8:45am and there was still 45 minutes to go until the scheduled start time.
I knew then that it was going to be a great event for club members.
9:30am came around very quickly, and by then we had 20-or so cars in the car park. And for the first time, BMWs were outnumbered by 5-to-1. I was completely gobsmacked at the variety of cars and bikes our members own. From a F100 Pickup with 500Hp, to a stunningly maintained Datsun Bluebird station wagon to exotic McLaren and Aston Martins. In total, we had 54 cars turn up - from marques including Honda, Dodge, Jaguar, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Alfa Romeo, Ford, Subaru, VW, Peugeot, MINI, Holden, Audi, and bikes from Vepsa, KTM. and Yamaha.
Who knew our members would have such a vast array of cars tucked away? When I sat back and reflected on it, we all love cars in different marques, in different shapes, sizes and cylinders. We just happen to be a member of a BMW affiliated Club. We're car-people.
This is what I love about our club: it doesn't matter what you drive, be it BMW or otherwise, we all love and respect all cars.
People are already asking me when the next one will be happening. This has been so encouraging to hear. I must admit I was quite nervous about throwing myself into hosting duties, but it has been so worth it. I encourage anyone who wants to host an event, to just go for it.
Thank you to all the Members who turned out for our first ever "What else is in your garage" cars, bikes & coffee event. Stay tuned for the next one!
Mark McDermott | Member #50 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
Firstly, we wish a very Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers receiving this today. We hope you have had a wonderful day.
Looking back at August, we had a slightly quieter month than usual.
Our month began with a track information night at Shannons Insurance. It was really nice to be back in the club rooms at Shannons and have so many members attend too. Jo put on n informative presentation and each member went home with an information booklet that they may find helpful for future track events.
On the weekend of 12-14 August quite a few of our members competed in E30 Racing Round 4 at Sandown. There was a field of 17 and two members out on flags on Saturday. It was great to see so many members also attend to help the competitors, especially with Graeme getting back on track to fill in for an unwell Tristan on the Sunday.
18-21 August was the Penrite Oil Sandown Supercars Super Sprint, which had quite a few of our club members attending as officials. We also welcomed some new members at this event, Emma and Brock, who were part of Jo’s team and just loved the whole experience. We look forward to seeing you both trackside at more events.
23 August was our drop in donuts night. It's always nice to have a relaxed night with members dropping in and out to enjoy each other’s cars, chat about life and just catch up. Thank you to Lawrence who runs these nights and always enjoys a chat, coffee, and a donut or two.
Sunday, 28 August saw over 50 cars and bikes attend our "what else is in our garage coffee and cars” event. Special thanks to Mark McDermott who did a fabulous job co-ordinating all the exotic and rare vehicles as they came in.
2023 BMW Clubs Australia Nationals
Expressions of interest to attend the 2023 BMW Clubs Australia Nationals are now available, here.
Welcome to our new members Paul Mitchell, Victor Agosta, Michael Pigatto, Zachary Boribon, Frankie Kasikci, Greg May, Sharon Sleep, Scarlett Sleep, Olivia Sleep, Robert Fonhof, Peter Staebner, Adam Giosserano, Naomi Driscoll, Emma Keith, Brock Migues, Cameron McKenzie and Philip Flack. We look forward to seeing you at an event soon!
Here's what we've got planned in September:
Tuesday, 6 September Annual General Meeting This is when your committee will report on the year just gone and the new committee for the next 12 months will be chosen. We encourage as many members as possible to attend this important meeting. Sunday, 18 September Shepparton drive including Shepparton BMW & MINI and MOVE Join us in Donnybrook where we will depart at 9.15am sharp to take a scenic drive up to Shepparton, where we will arrive at Shepparton BMW & Mini for a tour of the dealership and then have lunch with the staff who have kindly come in on Sunday to host us. We will then leave at approximately 1.45pm to head to MOVE (Museum Of Vehicle Evolution) and enjoy the rest of the afternoon touring the wonders of this great museum. Tuesday, 20 September September Drop in Donuts | Geelong Come along with a car, a warm jacket and maybe a beanie or hat and have a chat and coffee/donut with us.
Tuesday, 6 September Annual General Meeting This is when your committee will report on the year just gone and the new committee for the next 12 months will be chosen. We encourage as many members as possible to attend this important meeting. Sunday, 18 September Shepparton drive including Shepparton BMW & MINI and MOVE
Join us in Donnybrook where we will depart at 9.15am sharp to take a scenic drive up to Shepparton, where we will arrive at Shepparton BMW & Mini for a tour of the dealership and then have lunch with the staff who have kindly come in on Sunday to host us. We will then leave at approximately 1.45pm to head to MOVE (Museum Of Vehicle Evolution) and enjoy the rest of the afternoon touring the wonders of this great museum. Tuesday, 20 September September Drop in Donuts | Geelong Come along with a car, a warm jacket and maybe a beanie or hat and have a chat and coffee/donut with us.
Sampling a G42 BMW 220i
Supercars at Sandown
Officiating at Sandown
Cars and coffee morning
50 Years of BMW M and 20th BMW M Award: the first BMW M3 Competition Touring as exclusive prize for the 2022 winner
"Failure is when you don't try."
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August was a slower month but still lots of great events happening along the way.
9 August we started with our members meeting track Information night at Shannons Insurance. It was great to be back in the club rooms and equally nice to have such a huge attendance from club members. Jo put on a great powerpoint presentation and each member went home with an information booklet which I am sure will be very helpful for future track events. Lots of questions were asked on the night and this will definitely be a bi-yearly event for new and existing members to learn more about driving and officiating.
12-14 August quite a few of our club members competed in the VSCRC E30 Racing Round 4 at Sandown and it was great to see so many E30s out there. We had a field of 17, two members out on flags on Saturday, several members joining the Bell Motorsport camp to help prepare the cars ready for the races. Thank you to all who came along, having so many helpers enabled me to get out and race after one of our members woke up sick on Sunday and offered his car to me, to join in the fun. Going from 17th to 3rd in the first race on Sunday and then 3rd to 1st for a few laps to finally concede the lead to the current champion and also one of my customers Alex Jory. Great racing by all who attended a massive thank you to everyone who came along and supported this event. Great to see I can still do it.
18-21 August was the Penrite Oil Sandown Supercars Super Sprints, which had quite a few of our club members attending as officials. Jo and I were there as well, and we had a few newbies in pit lane loving getting up close and personal to the cars and the drivers. Another great event and this is why Jo pushes so hard about becoming an official, you get to do cool stuff like this and attend for free and get lots of special goodies given to you as a thank you. We picked up a few new members at this event, welcome Emma and Brock who were part of Jo’s team and just loved the whole experience. Great to see these two have already registered for the Bathurst 1000 as officials too. We look forward to seeing you both track side at more events. With each official who attends these events you get a guest pass, which enabled at least 10 of our members free entry over the weekend which is also brilliant.
23 August was our drop in donuts night, this is always a great relaxed night with members dropping in and out to enjoy each other’s cars, chat about life and just catch up. Thank you to Lawrence who runs these nights and always enjoys a chat, coffee and a donut or two.
Sunday, 28 August saw over 50 cars and bikes turn up at our “what else is in our garage coffee and cars” event. While Jo, Jess and I headed up to Armidale for Jess’s graduation ceremony, I’d like to thank Mark McDermott for organising and supervising this event. Great to have new blood helping out our very busy event organising team. The photos looked amazing and great having so many cars come out of the shed for everyone to see. Of course, we are very passionate BMW lovers, but we are also car lovers, and it is great to see there are lots of members with the same passion for other cars as well.
Mark did a fantastic job co-ordinating all the cars and what a great turn out of exotic and rare vehicles. We even had bikes along which was terrific, thank you again Mark for volunteering to run this event, it allowed us time to get away but still offer the members something great to attend.
September will hopefully bring us some warmer weather, as Spring arrives and we have some great events lined up for you to enjoy.
3 September is round 6 of our Traction Tyres/Yokohama Drivers Championship at Sandown. If you have entered, Jo has reserved 10 garages under BMWDCM so we can all be parked together, so if you are booking a garage, ask Brendan to use one of those reserved, if there are any left. These days are not racing, it is sprints which is a timed event which you need to just try to better your own time each session. If you have done the come and try days, these are very similar, but with a timing device in your car. It is the next step up for those that want a little friendly competition mixed with their track days. Talk to Jo or I if you want to know more or aren’t sure what to do. Spectators are welcome to join us and watch from pit lane and have a chat with all those driving.
6 September is our club’s AGM. We encourage as many members to attend on this night please, as we will need a quorum for any new items to be voted on and passed. It will be held at the German Tivoli Club again this year and if you want to join in the fun, come dressed in your Dirndl or Lederhosen and have some fun on the night with a German theme. Your committee will be dressed up, so why not come and join us. Come early and enjoy the great food and drinks (at members own cost). After the formalities we will be going through a few positions which we are wanting help with. These are not full-time roles and not roles which need to be voted on, just roles which we need a hand with to make our lives easier moving forward. If you are interested in helping our club grow and become even better than it already is, then please come along and enjoy the evening.
17 September is the next event, we are touring up to Shepparton to our new sponsors Shepparton BMW for a private tour and lunch at their new dealership, which is the first in the country to be built to the new BMW Corporate model and only the third in the world. It's a fantastic dealership and we look forward to holding more events with them in 2023. After lunch we all head off to MOVE (Museum of Vehicle Evolution) which I have been told is just amazing. There will be a couple of special surprises there too, so you’ll have to come along and see what they are.
23-25 September has a large group of us again racing down at Phillip Island for round 5 of the E30 Racing Championship. Come down and help out the crew or just join in the fun on the day. This is a State Championship race meeting, so always lots of different categories to see, as well as the E30s. Jo will be Assistant Secretary at this event, so will be at the base of the tower if you need any help with anything or just want to pop in and say hi.
Events to put in your diaries are:
Our new merchandise is flying off the shelves, so put in your orders now, so as to not miss out on your sizing. We now have editions 1, 2 and 3 of idrive for sale if you are wanting to collect them and have every edition in your collection. There is limited stock of these so order now to not miss out.
For all those attending Challenge Bathurst, we have a team shirt which does need to be pre ordered. Orders need to be in and fully paid before the end of September.
Membership is still growing strong, and we are very proud of how many new members that join up each month. Welcome to all those new members, I look forward to meeting you at an event somewhere, if we haven’t already met.
As a reward for existing members, we are starting a new initiative. All renewals and new memberships for each quarter will go into the draw for a prize. This will be done each quarter and drawn at the end. We are also encouraging all our members to refer a friend family member or work colleague to join, just remember when your friend sings up, ask them to put your name down as a referral and your name will also go in the draw for the quarterly draw. Your name can go in multiple times, if you refer 10 friends in a quarter you get 10 entries. This will start at the first of October.
I am very proud of how our little club has grown into one of the best clubs in the world, put mainly I am proud of our members who make this club as good as it is. When we attend events as see families with little ones joining in on the fun and parents bringing their learner drivers out on our drive days, this shows me that we are doing it right.
Please remember without you, we are only four people and we need your help, so join us at events, put your hand up to help, even if it is just taking photos or helping pack up at the end of the day. Every little bit makes it easter for us all.
Take care out there and I look forward to seeing you at an event soon.
Event date: 28 August 2022
The “cars and coffee” meet that Mark McDermott organised at Murrumbeena Station could have been called “What haven’t you got in your garage”!
The array of different vehicles – not all were cars – was fantastic and made for a very interesting morning.
The turn out was larger than expected (which is good) and the adjoining parking area was also utilised.
With some foot traffic or just curious passers-by pulling in for a look the event proved very popular.
Being a casual event everyone just walked around and looked and chatted, learning about vehicles we have not really seem before. There was a lot of laughter and some downright amazement – you get 20 hp from that 190cc scooter engine?
Altogether a brilliant day – more than a morning as plenty were still there well past the 11:30 end time.
Big thank you to Mark for having the idea, finding a location and organising a discount on coffee from Daniel Son and setting up in the morning.
Lawrence Glynn | Member #3 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
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