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BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 21 Nov 2020 11:47 AM | Anonymous


    Event date: 15 November 2020

    As the Victorian Covid lockdown continued with no sign of easing, a song from my youth with the lyrics adjusted for our plight kept coming into my mind:

    Me: "Am I ever gonna get to race again?"
    Premier "No way get f... f .... off!"

    Eric my beloved E30 318i had had a roll cage installed in preparation for some door to door racing one day. At one stage it looked like that would never happen so why did we bother?! Eventually an entry for a sprint at Winton showed up and I was entered and looking forward to getting on the track again. Returning to race COVID style!

    Days before, I went through the checklist - shoes, socks, fireproof underwear, race suit, hans, helmet. Where is my balaclava? It has to be here somewhere? Oh well, it'll turn up. Where's my licence gone - right there where I left it. OK all set.

    Early starts are a part of racing life it seems and I don't mind. I couldn't remember the last time the alarm went off at 4am since I haven't travelled for work for so long. Anyway, all packed up, fire up the mighty M10 and we're on our way up the Hume to Winton.

    Could I beat my best time there from August? Oooh the anticipation.

    Eventually we got out on the track and Graeme Bell kindly let me tag along behind him and Rod Martin for the first session. Bit rusty but it was great to be out there heel toeing again, turning in, opening up and having a blast.

    I pulled back in and a few minutes later Graeme poped over to my carport to give some well appreciated advice on how to go faster! My own personal coach! Awesome.

    A few more sessions and it was home time. Given the temperature I must be honest to say it was tougher than I remember, and no, didn't get close to my best time there. I blame the hot day and reduced engine performance but it was probably the lockdown exercise program (none) and the diet (lots of easy bad comfort food) that slowed me down.

    Thanks to our good friends at AROCA Vic for letting us come and play, and can't wait 'til the next one - Phillip Island!

    Darryl O'Neill | Member #52
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 20 Nov 2020 4:16 PM | Anonymous


    I am both thrilled and honoured to receive the “Presidents Award” for 2019. 

    It is a privilege to be a member of the exceptional club. 

    Every event is an absolute joy, and the people I have had the pleasure of meeting at club events, I now class as my friends.  All of which, like me, have an unbridled passion for the Marque.

    I am delighted that my name will be added to the perpetual trophy, as a permanent record of me being a member of this fine club,  a club by which all other clubs should be measured. 

    Stephen Garth | Member #40
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 20 Nov 2020 3:21 PM | Anonymous




    The development of the new BMW M4 GT3 is in full swing – and BMW M Motorsport can count on the support of a number of proven, strong technology partners. They are contributing components for various areas of the new GT3 flagship. The collaboration with these technology partners is set to run for several years.

    The development of the new BMW M4 GT3 is in full swing – and BMW M Motorsport can count on the support of a number of proven, strong technology partners. They are contributing components for various areas of the new GT3 flagship. The collaboration with these technology partners is set to run for several years.

    “We can all hardly wait to see our teams in action with the BMW M4 GT3 at racetracks around the world from 2022,” said Markus Flasch, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “We want to provide our racing customers with a car with which they can seamlessly follow on from the success they have enjoyed with the BMW M6 GT3. We also want to impress more customers with the BMW M4 GT3 and win them as teams. The new car offers state-of-the-art technology, thanks in no small part to our technology partners. They are among the best in their respective fields, and we are delighted that they are supporting us in the development of the BMW M4 GT3 with their specific expertise and components. This is the perfect basis for a successful new race car.”

    Shell and Akrapovič are among the long-term technology partners of BMW M Motorsport, and are also involved in the BMW M4 GT3. As ‘Premium Technology Partner’ of BMW M Motorsport, Shell Lubricants contributes state-of-the-art lubricants and transmission oils, and also provides the fuel for tests. Slovenian company Akrapovič is the leading manufacturer of premium exhaust systems and has its roots in motor racing. Akrapovič has been an established name in international motorsport for almost three decades and, with its innovative exhaust systems, has been instrumental in countless titles and race wins for its motorsport partners.

    Endless Advance Co. Ltd. is ‘Official Partner’ in the field of brake technology. The Japanese company, its European subsidiary Endless Brake Technology Europe AB, and BMW Motorsport have already worked together for several years. Endless plays its part in the BMW M4 GT3 project with the development of sophisticated racing brakes and also provides technical support.

    Another innovation in the BMW M4 GT3 is the new hydrostatic modular clutch actuator from Schaeffler. This technology, which heralds the next generation of clutch automation, has recently been introduced in production vehicles and has impressed from the word go. The Schaeffler clutch actuator is now finding its way to the racetrack in the BMW M4 GT3 and, with its innovative technology, will allow far more dynamic starts.

    When it comes to the chassis, BMW M Motorsport is also extending its collaboration with two proven technology partners to include the BMW M4 GT3. Special springs from H&R and racing dampers from chassis manufacturer KW automotive will ensure that the new race car holds the road perfectly in any conditions.

    BMW PRESS

  • 20 Nov 2020 2:30 PM | Anonymous




    Further development and distribution of in-house developed Smart Transport Robot, STR • Next generation of STR to launch end of 2020.

    Supreme power, an imposing thirst for forward progress and extravagant styling allow the new BMW X5 M Competition (fuel consumption combined: 13.0 – 12.8 l/100 km

    The BMW Group breaks new ground in the field of logistics as it founds IDEALworks GmbH – a fully-owned subsidiary headquartered in Munich. The aim is to become a leading supplier of autonomous robotics solutions in the logistics sector. The name "IDEAL" stands for Industry Driven Engineering for Autonomous Logistics.

    “In founding IDEALworks, we are creating a new business segment for our logistics solutions. In recent years, our logistics innovation team has been working in depth on the digitalization and automatization of production logistics and has developed some unique solutions. The Smart Transport Robot, STR, in particular has met with great response and has seen demand from both within and outside of the BMW Group.  Founding IDEALworks GmbH is now the logical next step for the BMW Group as a driver of innovation,” explained Milan Nedeljković, the member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Production, to mark its foundation."

    “We are entering completely new terrain with IDEALworks GmbH.  Up until now, our development has focused on automotive production and its logistics,” said Jimmy Nassif, CTO IDEALworks GmbH. He continued: “Our perspective is changing now. We are becoming a provider of logistics robotics beyond the automotive industry. We are preparing some innovations for the coming months."

    Since 2015, the innovations team from BMW Group Logistics has been working on future-focused industry 4.0 solutions in the fields of virtual reality, augmented reality, in- and outdoor logistics robots, paperless logistics and smart devices. Many of these solutions are already in series production at BMW Group production locations. In 2019, BMW Group Logistics received the prestigious Deutscher Logistik Preis [German Logistics Award]. The Smart Transport Robot and its management software were also recognized as part of this award.

    IDEALworks GmbH launches its first product with the Smart Transport Robot

    The Smart Transport Robot, STR, was developed in 2015 in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute. The flat, autonomous and mobile robots can transport goods weighing up to one ton to their destination. They independently calculate the best route and move freely around the space using the SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) navigation method. The SLAM algorithm does not require permanent navigation transmitters to be installed in buildings and can therefore be set up quickly in a new environment without requiring any structural adjustments. An integrated battery module from the BMW i3 is able to supply the STR with power for at least an entire shift. The next generation of the STR will be rolled out at the end of 2020. Currently, more than 130 STRs are already in series production at several different BMW Group production sites.

    Successful pilot projects in the non-automotive sector

    "With the Smart Transport Robot, we have launched a highly competitive product. From October  onwards, we have been carrying out pilot projects at companies from a wide range of industries. These trials show just how robust and versatile the STR is," explained Markus Bauer, COO IDEALworks GmbH. "The success of the pilot project and the resulting demand for the STR were decisive in founding IDEALworks GmbH. We want to develop IDEALworks into a top player among the providers of industrial logistics robots in the long term," Bauer continued.

    The new company IDEALworks GmbH is located in Munich.

    In its initial phase, the team consists of around 30 experts from a wide range of fields and nationalities.

    BMW PRESS

  • 19 Nov 2020 12:07 PM | Anonymous


    Event date: 14 November 2020

    Thanks very much to Rani Joensen from RivRevv Media for capturing our Welcome Back Melbourne Cars & Coffee event on video.

  • 19 Nov 2020 12:00 PM | Anonymous




    Emotional roadster look combined with supersports riding dynamics - that's what the new BMW S 1000 R is all about. The Dynamic Roadster based on the S 1000 RR enters a new dimension.

    "With our new S 1000 R, we have tried to preserve the strengths of its predecessor and to take into account the potentials known to us from press and customer feedback in the new S 1000 R. The team also made perfect use of the benefits provided by the new architecture"
    Ralf Mölleken, Project Manager Complete Vehicle

    Emotional roadster look combined with supersports riding dynamics - that's what the new BMW S 1000 R is all about. Derived directly from the supersports S 1000 RR in the key areas engine and chassis, the dynamic roadster offers the same innovative technology. The close kinship to the "RR" can be seen from every angle. With its reduction to the essentials, the new S 1000 R offers unprecedented dynamic response. Thanks to its acceleration-optimised 121 kW (165 hp) peak output combined with the unrivalled low weight of 199 kg (DIN) as well as ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), full-scale LED lighting and much more as standard, the new S 1000 R once once again sets the benchmark in the dynamic roadster segment.

    Newly developed, 5 kg lighter drive based on the S 1000 RR with adapted gear ratios, optimised mid-range power and engine drag torque control (MSR) as optional extras.

    The in-line four-cylinder is based on the engine of the S 1000 RR and generates 121 kW (165 hp) at 11 000 rpm. The maximum torque of 114 Nm is available at 9 250 rpm. The engine speed range was made even wider, fuller and more harmonious in terms of achieving even more improved rideability thanks to a particularly linear torque curve. In order to reduce the noise and fuel consumption levels as well as the engine speed level, especially at cruising speeds on country roads, the 4th, 5th and 6th gears now have longer gear ratios. In addition to a smoother, self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch, the new S 1000 R is equipped with engine drag torque control (MSR) for the first time as an optional extra. The engine drag torque control prevents the rear wheel from slipping as a result of abrupt throttling or downshifting thanks to being electronically controlled.

    Completely new, lighter chassis based on the S 1000 RR with Flex Frame, Full Floater Pro kinematics, underslung swingarm and optimised ergonomics.

    The chassis was also subjected to significant weight reduction, just like the entire motorcycle. The frame and swingarm are based on the S 1000 RR and have been made considerably lighter in than their predecessor. At the same time, the engine in the so-called Flex Frame takes on a much greater supporting function than before. The new frame offers further benefits due to its very narrow design. This considerably reduces the motorcycle’s width in the area of the knee contact area, thereby offering a more relaxed riding position with even more freedom of movement. An adjustable handlebar clamp enables the rider to make ergonomic adaptations. Two positions are already available as standard: 0 mm / +10 mm towards the front. In addition, 10 mm handlebar riser mounts are offered as an option, which can also be turned in the direction of travel by 0 mm / +10 mm.

    The underslung swingarm has been taken over from the S 1000 RR and the spring strut with Full Floater Pro kinematics is now located significantly further away from the swing axis and the engine. This prevents the engine from heating up due to waste heat and ensures even more stable temperature behaviour and even more constant damping response. In combination with the swingarm, which has its roots in motorsports, this results in more tyre grip and lower tyre wear.

    Three riding modes, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and ABS Pro as standard. Optional equipment "Riding Modes Pro" with riding mode "Dynamic Pro", Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), engine drag torque control (MSR, “Engine Brake” and “Power Wheelie”.

    The new S 1000 R is equipped as standard with Dynamic Traction Control DTC, ABS Pro with banking angle optimisation and the three riding modes "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic". The fully configurable "Dynamic Pro" mode is also available with a particularly wide range of setting options as part of the "Riding Modes Pro" option. With "Riding Modes Pro", the new S 1000 R also features the "Engine Brake" function in conjunction with the engine drag torque control (MSR) and the "Power Wheelie" function. As part of the "Riding Modes Pro" option, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) additionally supports the rider during emergency braking manoeuvres.

    Multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5-inch TFT screen for excellent readability and maximum range of information.

    The new S 1000 R’s instrument cluster was also taken over from the S 1000 RR. Special emphasis was placed on the best possible readability in addition to an extended range of functions and information. The screen was therefore designed to be large for good readability and optimum information display even under difficult lighting conditions. The rider can choose between customised screen displays for various purposes. The Pure Ride Screen, for example, provides all the necessary information for normal road riding, while a further Core Screen shows displays for banking angle, deceleration and traction control. A bluetooth smartphone interface which allows app-based arrow navigation is already included as standard. The TFT display is operated comfortably from the handlebars using the multi-controller. The optional M package provides a third Core Screen with bar display and lap timer.

    New LED headlamp and powerful LED light units as standard. Headlight Pro with adaptive turning light and iconic light guides with daytime running light function as an optional extra ex works.

    The lighting units of the new S 1000 R are based on state-of-the-art LED technology. These include the new, striking LED main headlamp with optimised low beam and high beam light. The newly designed turn indicator and rear lights also make use of LED technology. The rear turn indicators have been adopted from the S 1000 RR and feature an integrated tail/brake light function. The front turn indicators are "hidden" in the fork area. Enhanced safety when riding at night is ensured by the adaptive turning light which is a component of Headlight Pro as an ex works option. In this case, further LED modules are added. The rider benefits from improved road illumination when cornering to make riding at night even safer.

    New, even more dynamic design in an attractive basic colour and two exclusive style variants.

    In its latest edition, the S 1000 R also clearly borrows from its supersports counterpart, the S 1000 RR, but placing the emphasis on its character as a dynamic roadster. To a greater extent than previously, the "tail up - nose down" look gives the S 1000 R an eye-catchingly dynamic visual impact with its new body elements. The colour concept also highlights the sporty, dynamic appearance of the new S 1000 R. In addition to the basic colour Racingred non-metallic, the options Style Sport and the M package with additional product content are available.

    The highlights of the new BMW S 1000 R:

    • 5 kg lighter, newly developed 4-cylinder in-line engine based on the S 1000 RR with further optimised mid-range power and rideability as well as new gear ratios in 4th - 6th gear.
    • Lightest dynamic roadster in its class: Weight reduction by 6.5 kg to 199 kg DIN empty weight or 202 kg including comfort and dynamics package. The M package reduces the vehicle weight by another 4.8 kg (2 kg with forged wheels / 3.7 kg with carbon fibre wheels).
    • Superior output and torque: 121 kW (165 hp) at 11 000 rpm and 114 Nm at 9 250 rpm.
    • At least 90 Nm of torque available from 5 500 to 12 000 rpm. More than 80 Nm already available from 3 000 rpm.
    • Effort-saving, linear torque curve: Even better rideability across the entire engine speed range.
    • Newly developed suspension featuring the “Flex Frame”, with the engine taking on more of a load-bearing function.
    • Significantly improved ergonomics thanks to the “Flex Frame” allowing the rider to have his knees closer to the motorycyle body.
    • Underslung swingarm with Full Floater Pro kinematics and new suspension strut for even more sensitive response and optimised rear wheel grip.
    • New, lighter exhaust system, EU5 compliant.
    • New 6-axis sensor box for precisely determining the pitch rate and anti-wheelie function.
    • ABS Pro for even more safety when braking, also in banking position, as standard. Dedicated rain brake mode with flatter brake pressure gradient. ABS Pro as standard for even safer braking when cornering.
    • WSBK proven DynamicTraction Control (DTC) as standard ensures even greater stability when accelerating.
    • Three riding modes "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic" as standard.
    • DTC wheelie function as standard.
    • Riding Modes Pro with additional "Dynamic Pro" mode including adjustable wheelie control, engine brake and engine drag torque control (MSR) as well as Launch Control, Pitlane Limiter and Hillstart Control Pro as ex works options.
    • Hillstart Control as standard.
    • Shift Assistant Pro for quick up and down shifting without using the clutch available ex works.
    • New instrument cluster with 6.5 inch, easy-to-read TFT display including additional sports screens, arrow navigation and connectivity.
    • New LED headlamp and LED light units as standard.
    • Adaptive Turning Light and daytime running light in Headlight Pro package available as an option ex works.
    • Completely newly designed body elements for even more dynamic styling.
    • Attractive basic colour and two style variants available from start of production.
    • Expansion of the Original BMW Motorrad Accessories and optional extra range, including M package, Carbon package and Milled Parts package ex works.

    BMW PRESS

  • 19 Nov 2020 11:47 AM | Anonymous




    With its powerful, dynamic single cylinder, the appearance in 2015 of the BMW G 310 R opened up the world of BMW Motorrad’s Dynamic Roadster. Quick and agile in the city, confident and powerful on the open road – as a result, the lively, purposeful Dynamic Roadster delighted many customers all over the world. In order to sustain this going forward, BMW Motorrad has made the BMW G 310 R fit for the future and afforded it a range of enhancements.

    With its powerful, dynamic single cylinder, the appearance in 2015 of the BMW G 310 R opened up the world of BMW Motorrad’s Dynamic Roadster for the capacity segment under 500 ccm. Quick and agile in the city, confident and powerful on the open road – as a result, the lively, purposeful Dynamic Roadster delighted many customers all over the world, especially newcomers. In order to sustain this going forward, BMW Motorrad has made the BMW G 310 R fit for the future and afforded it a range of enhancements.

    Single-cylinder engine according to EU-5 homologation with automatic idle boost, electromotive throttle controller and self-boosting anti-hopping clutch.

    The heart of the new BMW G 310 R is still the reliable 313 ccm liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with four valves, two overhead camshafts and electronic fuel injection. The cylinder inclination to the rear and the cylinder head rotated by 180 degrees with intake at the front and exhaust at the rear remain the design characteristics. This arrangement follows the logic of optimal combustion air ducting and results in a particularly compact vehicle architecture. With an output of 25 kW (34 HP) at 9 500 rpm and a maximum torque of 28 Nm at 7 500 rpm, the single-cylinder engine of the new BMW G 310 R is the ideal partner for dynamic Roadster pleasure, including in the current EU 5 homologation.

    For use in the new BMW G 310 R, the engine has been equipped with a so-called "electronic throttle grip" (electromotive throttle controller) and now offers an even more sensitive throttle response. Automatic idle speed increase when starting also prevents a possible sudden stalling of the engine. The self-boosting anti-hopping clutch is also new. It reduces engine drag torque and provides a significant increase in driving safety - particularly during braking manoeuvres involving simultaneous downshifting. It also offers significantly reduced operating forces at the clutch lever.

    New LED headlight and LED flashing turn indicators – seeing and being seen optimally.

    Whereas the BMW G 310 R was already equipped with brake lights in LED technology, the new BMW G 310 R now has a full-LED headlight for even better visibility at night and LED flashing turn indicators for increased visibility in traffic. The new LED headlight ensures particularly bright and homogeneous illumination of the road. The three light functions high beam, low beam and – depending on the country – daytime driving light can be conveniently operated using the left handlebar controls.

    Hand lever adjustable in four stages for brake and clutch.

    Both, the clutch lever and the handbrake lever are now adjustable in four stages. It thus now provides ergonomic benefits – particularly for people with small hands. Stage 3 of the brake lever adjustment corresponds to the grip width until now. In the 1st position the brake lever is 6 mm closer to the handlebar.

    Softly reimagined design with two attractive base colours and the exclusive "Sport" style option.

    Dynamics and agility are also reflected in the design of the new BMW G 310 R. Here the visual similarity to sporty family members like the BMW S 1000 R is unmistakeable. This is also reflected in the colour scheme of the Dynamic Roadster. What all three colour options of the BMW G 310 R have in common are the engine housing covers for the alternator, clutch and coolant pump as well as footrest plate and rear grab handle, now painted in Titanium Grey Metallic.

    Besides the base colour, Cosmic Black, and accentuated masculine touch, another base colour option, Polar White, is now available, which together with blue painted accents represents the traditional BMW corporate colours in a fresh, dynamic way. In Sport style with the base colour, Limestone Metallic, eye-catching red "R" graphic on the fairing side panels and red frame and wheels, the new BMW G 310 R confidently reveals its sporty side.

    All new features of the BMW G 310 R at a glance:

    • Single-cylinder engine according to EU-5 homologation with electromotive throttle controller and automatic idle speed increase.
    • Self-boosting anti-hopping clutch.
    • New LED headlight and LED flashing turn indicators.
    • Hand lever adjustable in four stages for brake and clutch.
    • Engine housing covers for the alternator, clutch and coolant pump as well as footrest plate and rear grab handle painted in Titanium Grey Metallic.
    • Softly reimagined design with two attractive base colours and the exclusive style option “Sport” with red as accent colour.

    BMW PRESS

  • 19 Nov 2020 10:29 AM | Anonymous




    2023 will see Plant Leipzig launch production of the successor to the current MINI Countryman +++ The new model will offer a choice of combustion or electric drive +++ The current investment programme for the site in Saxony will significantly increase production capacity and enable e-drive component assembly.

    In 2023 the first MINI “born in Germany” will roll off the assembly lines at BMW Group Plant Leipzig. Following a decision by the BMW Group, production of the all-new successor to the current MINI Countryman will be contracted out to the facility in Saxony, making it the BMW Group’s first German site to produce both BMW and MINI vehicles. As it will be manufacturing both the combustion- and electrically powered versions of the forthcoming MINI crossover, Plant Leipzig has been the subject of an investment programme to ensure suitable expansion of its production capacity, including e-drive component assembly. 

    The realignment of the MINI product portfolio will see the brand strengthen its commitment to electromobility and the crossover segment, which continues to grow around the world. The successor to the popular MINI Countryman will come with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, with highly efficient petrol or diesel engines, or an all-electric drive. BMW Group Plant Leipzig will launch production of the forthcoming generation of crossovers for the premium compact segment in 2023. 

    “Over the last few years, we have worked continuously to lead our plant into a successful future. This contract to produce the successor to the MINI Countryman gives us another major milestone to work towards,” says Hans-Peter Kemser, Director of BMW Group Plant Leipzig. “It is clear evidence of the company’s faith in our expertise and our site, and fantastic news for the future of our plant.” 

    Since opening in 2005, Plant Leipzig has constantly increased its production capacity. The latest investment programme to reach completion comprised extensions and upgrades to the body and paint shops, assembly and logistics, and totalled around €300 million. With production capacity now at more than 350,000 units per year, BMW Group Plant Leipzig has the best possible prerequisites for expanding its product portfolio to include the new MINI model. 

    Thanks to its extremely flexible production processes, BMW Group Plant Leipzig will be able to deliver a wide variety of drives for the forthcoming generation of the MINI Countryman. Since launching production of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer in 2014, it has become the pilot plant for BMW’s state-of-the-art front-wheel drive architecture. It currently manufactures the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, and both the front- and all-wheel drive variants of the new BMW 1 Series.

    The site in Saxony is also the birthplace of BMW Group electromobility. Since 2013, it has manufactured over 200,000 all-electric BMW i3 (fuel consumption combined: 0.0 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined: 13.1 kWh/100 km; CO 2 emissions combined: 0 g/km) and BMW i3s (fuel consumption combined: 0.0 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined: 14.6 – 14 kWh/100 km; CO 2 emissions combined: 0 g/km) vehicles. 

    In the years ahead, the team’s experience in electromobility will come to bear even more, as a further investment of more than €100 million is now adding an assembly facility for e-drive components to BMW Group Plant Leipzig. Due to go on stream as early as 2021, the new facility will make Plant Leipzig a member of the BMW Group’s international production network for high-voltage batteries. It will cover an area of some 10,000 square metres and run a highly automated process to assemble lithium-ion cells brought in from suppliers into standardised battery modules. These will then be combined to create model-specific battery packs for BMW and MINI cars. So the electrified variants of the forthcoming successor to the current MINI Countryman will be made in Leipzig and fitted with locally assembled battery modules. 

    BMW PRESS

  • 15 Nov 2020 11:10 PM | Anonymous


    Event date: 14 November 2020

    It was finally here, the BMWDCM Coffee & Cars Morning at Albert Park.

    The conditions were overcast, but the day was still pleasant, with the sun making an appearance later in the morning. I didn't get to Albert Park until about midday, but Jo did mention were there a lot earlier with not only their BMW's, but also a fair few Audi's, filling up the carpark.  Until the park ranger came around to see what was happening.

    Nonetheless I noticed a lot of very nice BMW's around, particularly of the M series variant. Jo and Graeme had a X7 to show off from Mornington BMW. A very spacious SUV with a twin turbo diesel engine, leather seats, wood trim, powered tailgate plus ambient interior lighting with six selectable light designs and a panorama sunroof. It is definitely a car packed with features.

    As well as those members showing off the newer high-performance models there were a few of the oldies like the BMW 700 Lawrence brought from his collection, the car that saved BMW after WW2.

    So it was an enjoyable day, catching up with other BMWDCM members, meeting other members I haven't seen before ,as well as seeing plenty of nice BMW's. I couldn't think of a better way to spend the first weekend out of lockdown.

    Thanks to Jo, Graeme and the rest of the BMWDCM committee for putting on another great club event!

    Tim Oh | Member #538
    BMW Drivers Club Melbourne

  • 1 Nov 2020 4:30 PM | Anonymous


    MONTH IN REVIEW 

    Dear Members

    The sun is shining and we're about to (hopefully) find our way out of restrictions this month, but before we do, let's recap October.

    October started with our virtual AGM.  Our current committee were all re-nominated and elected. Congratulations to our committee and our members, we look forward to another fantastic year ahead. It was great to see a few of you dressed in your best Oktoberfest gear.

    ____________________

    On 20 October we were then taken on a guided virtual tour of Mornington BMW by Alex and Tony.  We were also given an extensive outline on how their financing works and also some great information on after sales.  Remember, if you are popping into Mornington BMW for a service or some spare parts, mention you are a member of BMWDCM and receive our special member discount. 

    ____________________

    We also held our annual presentation and awards night on 27 October.  Those who attended had a fun night, with many awards given.  Special mention to the following award recipients:

    • President's award: Stephen Garth
    • Member of the Year: Angelo Caridio
    • New Member of the Year: Andrew Brown
    • Motorsport Champion: Rachel Kertes
    Congratulations to all of our winners!

    ____________________

    Working With Children's Check
    If you currently have a Working With Children’s Check, can you please ensure you have nominated BMW drivers Club and Motorsport Australia as one of your volunteer clubs.

    ____________________

    If you require assistance from Jo Mawson or Graeme Bell, please do not phone the Bell Motorsport phone number (03 5979 1599).  Please instead phone Jo on 0412 661 900.

    ____________________

    MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 493 MEMBERS

    Welcome to our new members, 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.

    THE MONTH AHEAD

    Here's what we've got planned in November:

    Tuesday, 10 November
    BMW and General Knowledge Trivia Night 
    Do you know what inspired the colours in the BMW roundel? Do you know how many cars your club President owns? Which car manufacturer did your club President work for? Which year was BMW founded?

    Why not join us for a fun night, there will be BMW and General knowledge questions too. You will need two devices, a Laptop or tablet to read the questions and another screen or smart phone to answer the questions. 

    Saturday, 14 November
    Welcome Back Melbourne Coffee & Cars Morning at Albert Park
    Join us for a casual morning at Carousel Cafe Albert Park. There's ample parking outside for us to show off our pride and joys with photo opportunity on AGP Pit Lane and a cruise around the track after your coffee and breakfast. Bring your own chairs or picnic rugs as there will be no avaialbe seating inside. 


    Sunday, 22 November 

    Welcome Back Picnic Drive 
    We're going on a drive of some of Melbourne's beautiful roads!

    Sunday, 29 November 
    Annual Show & Shine Celebration followed by lunch 
    All cars are welcome! If you are just wanting to come along and join us for lunch, there will be ample parking below (the valet parking fee will be covered by the club) for those not participating in the Show & Shine but still want to join us for a bit of fun.  

    Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar for more events.


    NEWS & BLOG 

    MEMBER CAR OF THE MONTH

    This month we introduce you to Shane McKenzie and his E30 325i! To read all about Shane's E30 click here

    To submit your own car, or motorbike for next month, click here.

    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

    Proudly supported by:

    All Residential/All Commercial
    Creative Custom Cars
    Melbourne BMW
    Mornington BMW
    Shannons Insurance
    Southern BM
    Traction Tyres
    Waverley BMW
    Zagame Autobody



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