Event date: 7 April 2020
With COVID 19 lockdown we decided that we'd still like to be in contact with our members so we planned our first virtual members meeting to stay in touch with our members.
Surprisingly, we had a great response and after a few teething issues, as some of our members were having technical issues, it wasn't long before we all had our screens up and our meeting started.
We found that we had a lot of members who live further afield come online, which was great to be able to connect with them and for them to be able to chat with us and e-meet us and other members they hadn't met before.
After the formalities were over with, we discovered that some of our more tech savy members were changing their back grounds to look like they were flying in their Lear Jet to San Francisco, while others were on tropical islands sipping cocktails. This was a great bit of fun.
Considering this was our first virtual meeting, it went off really well and we had some great conversations and even had a new member join up from the meeting, which was brilliant.
We feel very passionate about staying incotact with our club through these tough times and this was a really great way of doing it. Very happy with our first meeting and look forward to including these types of meeting in our calendar, even after lockdown.
Jo Mawson | Member #2 BMW Drivers Club Melbourne
The new BMW R 18: supreme cruiser with historical roots. With the new R 18, BMW Motorrad now enters the cruiser segment. Like no other BMW motorcycle before it, this model stands entirely in the tradition of historical BMW motorcycles – both technically and in terms of design style. It borrows from famous models such as the BMW R 5 both technologically and visually, shifting the focus back onto the motorcycle essentials: purist, no-frills technology and the boxer engine as the epicentre of riding pleasure, combined with “good vibrations”. What is more, classic design is combined in the R 18 with clear-cut yet contemporary technology to create a fascinating overall concept – offering a riding experience that is as cultivated as it is emotional.
The most powerful BMW boxer engine of all time with abundant torque. The centrepiece the new BMW R 18 is a newly developed 2-cylinder boxer engine – the “Big Boxer”. Both its impressive appearance and its technology reflect a continuation of the traditional air-cooled boxer engines that have offered an inspiring riding experience since BMW Motorrad began production in 1923. The most powerful 2-cylinder boxer engine ever used in motorcycle series production has a displacement of 1 802 cc. The peak output is 67 kW (91 hp) at 4 750 rpm. From 2,000 to 4,000 rpm, over 150 Nm of torque is available at all times, and this elemental pulling power is combined with a full, resonant sound. Double-loop steel tube frame and rear swingarm with enclosed axle drive in rigid-frame look. The centrepiece of the suspension in the new R 18 is a double-loop steel tube frame. Its design perpetuates the longstanding BMW Motorrad tradition of this frame type. Outstanding manufacturing quality and a meticulous attention to detail is also evident in unapparent features such as the welded joints between the steel tubes and the cast or forged parts. Like the legendary BMW R 5, the rear swingarm – sporting a comparable design – surrounds the rear axle transmission in authentic style by means of bolted connections. Telescopic fork with fork sleeves, cantilever suspension strut, wire-spoked wheels and disc brakes. The suspension elements of the new BMW R 18 deliberately dispense with electronic adjustment options. Instead, a telescopic fork and a directly mounted central suspension strut with travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel control and attractive suspension comfort. As in the legendary BMW R 5, the tubes of the telescopic fork are encased in fork sleeves. The fork tube diameter is 49 mm, while the suspension travel is 120 mm at the front and 90 mm at the rear. The new BMW R 18 braking system consists of a twin disc brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear in conjunction with four-piston fixed callipers. Meanwhile the wire-spoked wheels ensure a supremely stylish appearance.
Harmonious ergonomics for optimum vehicle control. In keeping with the BMW Motorrad philosophy, the new BMW R 18 features a laid-back positioning of the footrests – so-called “mid-mounted footpegs”. This classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW, it also enables a relaxed and active riding position for optimum vehicle control. Three riding modes along with ASC and MSR for a high degree of riding pleasure and safety as standard. Reverse assist and Hillstart Control as ex factory options. The new R 18 also offers the three standard riding modes “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock” – unusual in this segment – so as to be able to adapt to individual rider preferences. The standard trim also includes ASC (Automatic Stability Control, disengageable), which ensures a high level of riding safety. In addition, the new R 18 is equipped as standard with engine drag torque control (MSR). Among other options, a reverse assist makes manoeuvring convenient, while the Hill Start Control function facilitates uphill starts. The new R 18: iconic style newly showcased, featuring a rigid-frame look, modern technology and authentic materials. The R 18 masterfully transposes the iconic style of bygone times to the present day, retaining a purist design in numerous details that is mainly influenced by classics such as the BMW R 5. It is no coincidence that functional and stylistic elements such as the double-loop frame, the pear-drop tank, the open-running driveshaft and the pinstriped paintwork (ex factory option) are reminiscent of the legendary boxer dating back to 1936. The classic bodywork features of the R 18 are also made of metal – as befits an authentic classic. The suspension is likewise aptly reminiscent of the legendary R 5. Together with the double-sided swingarm and a cantilever suspension strut, the rigid-frame concept of the R 5 is perfectly transported into the modern age in visual terms. The R 18 First Edition: exclusive look in paint and chrome. The new R 18 will be offered worldwide as an exclusive R 18 First Edition right from launch, with a standard model reserved additionally for certain markets. It combines the R 18 look with exclusive equipment features in a classic black finish with white pinstriped paintwork. Other highlights include numerous chrome surfaces, a seat badge and a “First Edition” chrome clasp on the side covers. Conversion-friendly design as a prerequisite for straightforward customising and optimum individualisation. More so than virtually any other motorcycle, the new R 18 offers a highly conversion-friendly design – a focus even in the early design phases of the basic motorcycle layout. As a result it is equipped with an easily removable rear frame and a simple-to-dismantle painted part set. Carefully conceived attachment points for the hydraulic lines of the brake, clutch and cable harness likewise allow easy installation of higher or lower handlebars in conjunction with matching hydraulic lines and cable harnesses. In addition, the visible valve covers (cylinder head covers) and the belt cover (engine housing cover) are designed in such a way that they are located outside the oil chamber, making them very easy to change.
Customising parts and Roland Sands design collections “Machined” and “2-Tone Black” for the new R 18. The BMW Motorrad equipment range offers a maximum selection of individualisation options with which to adapt the R 18 to personal taste and preferences. The wide range of different parts available from the programme of Original BMW Motorrad Accessories allows individual customising that significantly alter the character of the R 18. For the market launch of the new R 18, two different design collections of milled aluminium parts are available, created in collaboration with Roland Sands Design: “Machined” and “2-Tone-Black”. Co-branding with famous brands: BMW and Mustang seats as well as BMW and Vance & Hines exhaust systems “Made in USA”. For the accessories and customising programme of the new R 18, BMW Motorrad is collaborating with Roland Sands Design and several well-known suppliers including US manufacturer Mustang Seat to offer different versions of high-quality hand-made seats. In addition the customising potential for the exhaust systems in cooperation with Vance & Hines is no less creative. The highlights of the new BMW R 18:
BMW PRESS
MONTH IN REVIEW
March started just like any other month, a full calendar, busy weeks and weekends ahead and business as usual.
For the first event of the month, Peter Williams organised another fantastic drive through the countryside, finishing at Fort Queenscliff, where we had lunch at 360Q, followed by a private tour.
Our next event was our March members meeting at Melbourne BMW. Melbourne BMW joined us as a sponsor of the club this year so it was great to hold a members meeting with them and allow our members to get to know the team. Melbourne BMW also showed a livestream of the launch of the BMW Concept i4. We were also treated to an unveiling of the new 2 Series Gran Coupe.
The following weekend we were off to Phillip Island for the Phillip Island Festival of Speed. Two fantastic days of racing, our car display and beautiful weather made for a great weekend. New club sponsors, Mornington BMW also gave us an M235i Gran Coupe and an M3 CS for the display.
Next up, was the F1 Grand Prix at Melbourne. We were due to share a display with E30 Racing and had over 20 cars on display from members. Wednesday and Thursday were business as usual, all cars arriving for setup on Wednesday and day 1 of the Grand Prix on Thursday. It was Friday when everything began to change, the Grand Prix was cancelled Friday morning due to a Formula 1 team member testing positive for Coronavirus. We quickly had to arrange the collection of all cars. We'll probably always now remember it as the Grand Prix that almost happened.
Our display at the almost-Grand Prix was the last event of the month and likely to be our last in-person event for a little while. We are currently in the process of arranging virtual meetings and other activities, make sure you keep an eye on our website and facebook page for updates.
It is important to note that if you require assistance from Jo or Graeme during this time, please no longer phone the Bell Motorsport phone number (03 5979 1599) and instead phone Jo on 0412 661 900.
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE: 446 MEMBERSWelcome to our new members, we look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event!
Don't forget to catch up with this month's update from our President, Graeme Bell here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Unfortunately we can't give too many details on upcoming events right now. We are planning a virtual members meeting on 7 April and will be in touch with details as soon as they're available.
CLUB PERMIT RENEWALS
VicRoads are still processing renewals at their offices, however wait times are now much longer than normal and you must adhere to social distancing measures. Please instead consider posting your renewal to VicRoads. You can pay by cheque or VicRoads have advised that you can use this credit card form.
If you are yet to receive a signature from us for your renewal, we request that you post them to us for the time being.
To be as fast and efficient as possible we recommend to sign your renewal, attach your payment and post it to us with a stamped envelope addressed to VicRoads inside. We will then sign on behalf of the club and post it straight to VicRoads for you.
We would like to remind you that you do have three months after the expiry date to pay your renewal, but you can’t drive it once it expires, just like normal registration.
If you have any questions about your renewal please call or email us. If you are not comfortable providing your credit card details or don’t have a cheque book, give us a call and we will see what we can do to help you.
For more details on club permits, including where you can send your renewal for signing, please visit our Club Permits page on the website.
NEWS & BLOG
idrive magazine
MEMBER SERVICES
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
With the introduction of its Efficient Dynamics technology package back in 2007, the BMW Group created a concept that remains unrivalled in the automotive industry to this day. It centered on consistently reducing fuel consumption – and thereby CO2 emissions – on the one hand, while steadily increasing driving pleasure on the other. As a result, BMW Efficient Dynamics is now a fundamental link in the DNA of all BMW models and one of the key reasons why the BMW Group will be able to meet the European Union’s CO2 targets in full.
The BMW Efficient Dynamics approach systematically optimises every aspect of the vehicle. On the aerodynamics side, active air flap control is now in its third generation, while the new BMW iX3 – due to be launched by the end of 2020 – will be fitted with the latest generation of BMW aerodynamic wheels. The technology behind the new wheels has been further refined, resulting in a five per cent reduction in drag coefficient compared to conventional BMW X3 wheels plus a 15 per cent weight saving over the previous BMW aerodynamic wheel type. Such significant steps forward have been achieved thanks to heavy investment in the necessary aerodynamics R&D infrastructure over recent years. The most aerodynamically efficient current model overall, the new BMW 3 Series Sedan, has a Cd of just 0.23, earning it the title of “best in segment”.
Intelligent lightweight design has also led to some major efficiency-boosting advances. This has made it possible to reduce the weight of models from one generation to the next, despite increases in size and safety enhancements. Optimizing structures and employing the ideal materials in every area of a vehicle are key to attaining the goals that have been set.
The wide range of powertrain systems on offer also plays a fundamental role in the BMW Efficient Dynamics concept. From highly efficient combustion engines with 48V electrical systems to plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles – all are underpinned by the basic principle of Efficient Dynamics: minimize the input while maximizing the output, all with the focus placed firmly on the customer. The advent of 48V mild hybrid technology greatly expands the possible uses of Brake Energy Regeneration. This technology made its debut in the four variants of the BMW 520d in autumn 2019 and will be extended to the BMW 3 Series, BMW X3 and BMW X4 ranges in spring 2020.
The BMW i Hydrogen NEXT – unveiled to the public at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show as a technology demonstrator – represents a potential fourth pillar in the company’s powertrain portfolio. The BMW Group has been working with the Toyota Motor Corporation on fuel cell technology since 2013. The underlying conditions for supplying “green” hydrogen are not yet in place, however, meaning it will still be some time before the BMW Group brings out a production vehicle with this technology on board.
As a result of this package of technological measures, fleet consumption and CO2 emissions have been cut by more than 40 per cent over the last 13 years. What is more, the BMW Group will comply in full with the European Union’s CO2 targets, thanks in part to the rigorous deployment of BMW Efficient Dynamics innovations as standard across all model series.
CO2 emissions in 2020 will be 20 per cent lower again that the figure for 2019 thanks to BMW Efficient Dynamics and the ongoing electrification of the model range. This means that BMW customers can always reap the rewards of unbeatable driving pleasure, without compromising on sustainable mobility.
These achievements have encouraged the BMW Group to continue along its current path – and keep offering its customers technically innovative products with high levels of sustainability at the right time and in the right market. BMW Efficient Dynamics provides the ideal platform for BMW to deliver on its brand promise of Sheer Driving Pleasure with a line-up of exceptionally efficient vehicles.
Dear Members,
Well! What can we say about March? Other than, welcome to the new world we now live in. 2020 will go down in history as a year we will all remember and wished we weren’t there.
March started out pretty much like any other, a full calendar of fantastic events to look forward to, busy weeks and weekends ahead and business as usual…
The first event of the month started with a long loop around Geelong, from our meeting point at Lara, ending at a delicious lunch at 360Q in Queenscliff. Another of Peter Williams’ amazing drives through the countryside we would never know was there if we didn’t take the time to get off the highway. We were very lucky to have been given a new X3 M40i by Mornington BMW to test drive for the week and it proved a delightful car to drive, both on the freeways and through the back roads along the route. It has plenty of room, goes very well and is very comfortable, even on the uneven country roads we encountered.
Lunch was a relaxed affair with plenty of time to enjoy the meal, climb the tower for some photos and have a chat to our friends.
After Lunch we had a private tour of Fort Queenscliff. Amazingly, it is still an active defence base and so we were escorted around the grounds and buildings and told the history that is attached to everything there. We have driven past the fort so many times and said ‘we must go there one day’. I’m so glad we did, what an amazing place! Mornington BMW also gave us some M goodies to give away on the day, so out came the trusty barrel and quite a few members went away with some lovely gifts.
This was followed by our March Members Meeting, hosted by new sponsors, Melbourne BMW at their Southbank Dealership. Who’d have known that this night was the beginning of the end of life as we know it. With the cancelation of the Geneva Motor Show, due to the emerging Coronavirus pandemic, Melbourne BMW live streamed the BMW AG launch of the BMW Concept i4. Was very interesting to watch it in a BMW dealership and then enjoy looking at all the current and new models coming out, including the unveiling of the new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Melbourne BMW also gave us some lovely gifts to give away and again members went away with some new M gear.
The next weekend saw us down at Phillip Island for the Phillip Island Festival of Speed, one of the best Historic race meetings in the world. We set up on Friday and members joined us for two fantastic days of racing and socialising and displaying our cars in perfect weather. There were lots of cars on display on and off the track to look at and with around a dozen BMW’s racing in the Group A and C races, it was great cheering them on against the others. We had a great display of old and new cars, with Mornington BMW lending us a brand new M235i Gran Coupe and a new M3 CS, both of these cars had a lot of interest from car lovers and the public passing by. Thanks to the boys from Mornington BMW that came all the way down to talk to people about them and also for the gifts the gave us to again raffle off to members.
Who knew then Phillip Island would end up being the last race meeting to go ahead as the world started shutting down to try and control the COVID-19 pandemic?
One of our most loved display events each year is the display at the Melbourne F1 Grand Prix.
As usual we went in on Wednesday and set up a fantastic display together with E30 Racing. Melbourne BMW joined us with an M235i GT again and we were set for a wonderful weekend of F1, V8’s and other categories as well as everything that goes with such a world class event. Thursday went well with quite a few people coming for a chat and watching the fun on track and then Friday the wheels fell off the world!
The rest is history. The whole event was cancelled after one F1 team member testing positive for Coronavirus. Something that was on the news on the other side of the world had come to Melbourne!
Ever since that day the world has gone into meltdown to try and control this outbreak and now it is up to all of us to do our bit to try and help stop its spread. We have continued to monitor and adjust our lives and coming events in line with the ever changing warnings and conditions, and hope that this will soon be over.
Who would have thought, even a month ago, that we would be all trying to keep our distance from each other and stay home to isolate? We can only hope that everyone does their civic duty and helps control the spread as soon as possible so that we can get back to a normal life one day soon. I hope everyone is keeping in touch with their loved ones and looking after their own mental health too. Being cooped up and changing everything we do isn’t easy, but it is something we must do for now.
Hopefully one day soon we can get events back up and running and all get back to doing the things we all love. Our calendar is currently on hold with all events for March and April at least, cancelled or postponed. Even into May, we are starting to put events back, with our Second Birthday Celebration and Awards night postponed until we can get an idea of when we can be social again. However, the good news is that the second edition of our idrive magazine is still on track to be with you in May as planned, so look forward to receiving yours. It will be another amazing read, full of member stories and photos again, thanks to Jess and Leigh for their tireless work putting it all together. When Jo comes and asks you to write a story about an event or about your passion, it is great to see it come to life in such a wonderful keepsake.
Now we are in a holding pattern for face to face meetings, we will continue to keep engaged with our members as best we can. We will try a virtual meeting for our April Member Meeting and see how that goes. We will continue to keep you updated though a weekly email and posts on the facebook page and group.
For now, make sure you look after yourselves and your families and practice good hygiene and of course social distancing. Keep an eye on the government websites and news about what we have to do. Of course, if any of you are feeling like you need someone to talk to or are feeling alone, please pick up the phone and give us a call. We are here for all of you, our BMW family.
Together, we can get through this.
Take care.
Graeme Bell | President BMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc.
P.O. Box 81, TYABB, VICTORIA. 3913 Incorporated in Victoria #A0102695GBMW Drivers Club Melbourne Inc is a member of: BMW Clubs Australia and the BMW Clubs International CouncilMotorsport Australia Affiliated Motorsport Club
In times of uncertainty, inspiring people play an even more important role in sustaining society. The BMW Group and CNN International Commercial (CNNIC) have teamed up to portray the stories and attitude of some of the most remarkable creatives, artists and leaders of our time through two unique series comprising a total of eleven short films exploring “The Art of Leadership”. By focusing on the personal stories that drove exceptional individuals in their field to inspire modern society, each film in the series will embody core leadership values of BMW: responsibility, inner strength and independence. Values also inherent to BMW´s luxury car suite – BMW’s X7, 7, 8 und M8 Series.
On Thursday, CNN kicked off a six-part branded content series by launching the first brand film produced by CNNIC’s award-winning in-house studio Create. This first film portrays one of the most successful DJ duos and electronic music producers in the world, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike. Set against the backdrop of one of their concerts in Norway, the Belgian brothers recall how they became leaders in their field, reflecting on their passion and the relationship with their audience. This and the other upcoming brand films produced by Create are shot and edited for global distribution on a mix of CNN International’s platforms across TV, digital, and social, Great Big Story and will also be featured on BMW’s central brand website.
Later this year Great Big Story, CNN’s global media company devoted to cinematic storytelling, will launch a sponsored editorial series comprising five micro-documentaries that put the spotlight on inspiring women and men who created their social impact on leading by example.
The first film scheduled for May, will introduce the fascinating double life of Brandon Tory. Talented in tech while being a gifted emcee, Brandon successfully navigates both worlds – working as a senior AI engineer at Google by day and a successful hip-hop artist at night. Each film will run across Great Big Story’s platforms and social accounts, while distribution will be enhanced using WarnerMedia’s Launchpad technology to reach defined audiences across social media.
“BMW has a long and diverse history of projects that provide platforms and stages for creative minds and bold new voices - be it in design, art, sports or engineering. We see it as one of our missions - and have always done so, to enable and nurture transformation. These stories are the result of a perfect match between two entities which share the same values and goals. We are absolutely delighted that CNN and BMW work together to create these unique pieces about exceptional people, who are rethinking and redefining leadership. As we are always striving for excellence, we strongly believe this partnership is a milestone for both of us.” said Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW.
“All the best partnerships are based on common values, and I am delighted that this is the case with this exciting new project with BMW,” said Cathy Ibal, Senior Vice President, EMEA, CNN International Commercial. "As leaders in our respective fields, we honor and value those talents and characters that are portrayed in the fims as theychange our society for the better. Powerful, emotional storytelling from Creat and Great Big Story will ahve a prominent stage as we distribute these films in smart ways across all platforms to reach a truly global audience that values leadership and the stories behind it."
Under Stage 2 of the Government restrictions for gatherings and non-essential travel, we are suspending all of our Club meetings and events for the time being. We are working on other ways to keep engaged with our members and to try to bring a little joy to the situation we all find ourselves in.
Whilst we can’t go out and meet up, we can do some virtual meetings. Our next members meeting we will be trying something new with a live stream or video meeting. We will advise on the details of this as soon as they are available.
We want to keep engaged with you but not flood you with updates. We will send out an update weekly with any news or changes to upcoming events. If you have anything of interest or ideas for members to do whilst in virtual lockdown, send them to us and we'll share them with the rest of our members.
For now though, all events that were due to be held for the rest of March and all of April will be cancelled or postponed for later in the year. Sadly, our Second Birthday Celebration Night scheduled for 2 May will also be postponed. The good news is that at this stage, you will all still receive our second edition of idrive magazine in May as planned. Something to really look forward to!
Keep an eye on our Facebook group and Facebook page, we'll be sharing some ideas for things to do whilst you are at home, starting this weekend with a show-us-what’s-in-your-garage event, so look out for that.
Keep in touch with your family and friends, via phone or internet, we have to be physically isolated but we don’t have to be socially isolated. A phone call or email from a friend can really brighten someone’s day, so keep in touch and support each other in any way you can. If we all work together and do what we need to do, we will get through this.
We are only a phone call away too, so if you need anything please do call or email.
Club Permit RenewalsAt this time, VicRoads are still processing renewals at their offices, however wait times are now much longer than normal and you must adhere to the current social distancing measures. Please instead consider posting your renewal VicRoads. You can pay by cheque or VicRoads have advised that you can use this credit card form.
To be as fast an efficient as possible we recommend to sign your renewal, attach your payment and post it to us with a stamped envelope addressed to VicRoads inside. We will then sign on behalf of the club and post it straight to VicRoads for you.
For more details on club permits, including where you can send your renewal for signing, please visit our Club Permits web page.
Take care and stay safe.
I am sure you have been inundated, like we all have, with emails and news stories of what is being done and should be done to try and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
We are no different. Many of our upcoming events have been, or expect to be, cancelled or rescheduled to later in the year and we want to make sure we are doing what we can to look after the health and wellbeing of our friends, members and the public.
Many clubs like ours are cancelling everything on their calendar for the foreseeable future, regardless of event type and location, and some of our members have suggested we should do the same. There are lots of reasons to do so but there is also a lot of misinformation and unwarranted panic out there too… ie buying up all the toilet paper!
We feel, for now, that we should try and live as normal a life as we can within the Government and Health Department guidelines, so this is what we plan on doing. If you are at all concerned about going out in public or indeed are feeling unwell, then you should stay home and self-isolate for as long as needed, or until you feel it is safe for you to go back to a normal life.
Of course, should advice from the Government and Health Department change, we will follow the directions as required.
You will be getting emails or seeing changes to upcoming events as we assess their viability on a day to day basis, both in line with Government and Health Department guidelines and also in what we consider to be acceptable and safe.
Whist we are mindful of all the guidelines, there are still some ways we can all get out of the house, enjoy the fresh air and regain a little sanity in these stressful times. Mental health is especially important in times like these and to some, sitting at home and worrying can be unhelpful.
We are looking at replacing some events that would require gathering together in a space to going for a drive instead and just enjoying our cars and friends from a distance. We can still talk on the radios, enjoy the countryside and driving our favourite BMW, without putting our health at risk.
April Members Meeting Our April Members meeting scheduled for Eastern Tyre Centre has been postponed. We will instead holding a small casual meet and greet at Adex Detailing in Airport West for those that want to come out and meet our latest club sponsor. This is in a large space that will allow for social distancing. As there will be far less than 100 people we think it is safe to go ahead. Make sure you register if you are intending to come so that if we do have to cancel we can let you know in advance.
Good Friday AppealThe next event that has been cancelled for us is the Good Friday Appeal Display at Birrarung Marr. We have instead decided to go on a drive to Hanging Rock for a picnic lunch so we can still have event and raise money for the Royal Children's Hospital. So, on Good Friday we will meet in Warrandyte and Wallan, we'll then drive to Hanging Rock where we can each bring our own picnic, sit a good distance apart, enjoy the day, watch a raffle and still raise some much needed funds for the Royal Children’s Hospital.
2020 Yokohama/Traction Tyres Drivers ChampionshipAt this point the next round of our championship is still happening at Winton. We are working closely with AROCA, Motorsport Australia and Winton Raceway to assess the situation daily. We do ask that if you are interested in attending Winton please let us know by replying yes or no to motorsport@bmwdcm.com.au so that we can assess if there is still enough competitor interest for the day to run.
Be sure to keep an eye on the website and social pages for upcoming events as the situation is changing daily.
I can’t stress enough that we all need to be mindful of the current situation and take every precaution we can for our own health and those around us. However, it is important to remember that life can be as normal as we make it, if we are all careful and look after each other.
If you want to call or need help in any way, we are here and will remain so going forward.
Stay safe.
Bavarian luxury car manufacturer BMW and leading Italian bike manufacturer 3T announce a collaboration delivering sheer cycling pleasure to BMW customers. Modelled on the highly popular Exploro all-road bike, 3T has produced a special edition 3Tfor BMW model in two colour variations for the adventure-seeking BMW clientele.
“3T was a natural choice for us, as 3T’s Exploro model is the best gravel bike available combining performance, luxury and cycling pleasure to our customers”, says Gaston Streiger, Head of BMW Lifestyle division. Characterised by sharp silhouettes and precise lines, the new gravel bike seamlessly aligns with the minimalistic BMW design and perfectly fits into the overall lifestyle product range.
Fine quality and peak performance being central to design, the 3T FOR BMW bikes feature an aerodynamic carbon frame, the world’s lightest carbon aero cranks (made at 3T’s Italian carbon factory), an exclusive Brooks leather saddle and matching Brooks leather grips. Fulcrum alloy wheels and resistible Schwalbe One Speed tyres ensure a secure grip with maximum speed on any terrain - from cobbled city streets to abandoned B-roads and mountain trails. The innovative Shimano GRX group set for gravel bikes brings the highest quality down to the finest detail.
“We are extremely proud that BMW selected 3T to partner exclusively on the creation of the special 3T FOR BMW bike. BMW delivers ‘sheer driving pleasure’ to customers and with the 3T FOR BMW bike, we aim to deliver the same all road biking experience” says René Wiertz, co-owner and CEO of 3T.
Both colour variations of the 3T FOR BMW bike are shortly available for purchase at selected BMW dealers and 3T Experience Centers.
On Wednesday, 11 March we all arrived at gate 5 nice and early to put our pride and joys on display for the weekend of the 25th Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, one of our favourite display events of the year.
I was happy that all arrived well before time and after we all received our tickets and credentials, we managed to get ushered into position at 12.20pm. Not bad seeing our bump in time was 12.30!
We lined all the cars up in age range to drive to our display location, and once we got there, Sean Bell and Lawrence Glynn got all the cars lined up and looking fabulous. We had an amazing range from 1964 to 2020 all gleaming and ready to show the world.
We made sure all the cars had BMWDCM windscreen banners and an information sheet inside their cars, so that the general public could read about our wonderful display. The display area looked great with flags and banners. This was going to be another great year, proudly displaying at this fantastic event... We hoped.
After a final check and some photos we all headed home for the afternoon, expecting to be back each day over the coming weekend to chat to people, revel in the atmosphere and enjoy the racing.
We were very lucky this year to have Melbourne BMW displaying their new 2 Series Gran Coupe and I would like to thank them so much for coming on board as Sponsors for 2020 and helping us with the display. The new Gran Coupe looked fabulous in our display.
Another new Club Sponsor, Adex Car Detailing, was also there with one of their cars - another huge thank you for coming on board this year and joining our Display.
We also had the President and Vice President from BMW Car Club Gold Coast bring their lovely E30 325is which they drove down, and it was looking amazing after they managed to find a car wash and clean off 1,000kms of road grime. Andrew Grosse from BMW Drivers Club NSW also brought his 635 Group A replica, which was in with the E30 racing cars, who we shared a second display with nextdoor. If you didn’t know you would have thought this was the original car, what an amazing machine.
Thursday was a little quiet at the track. With the virus scare numbers were a little low but the display still had lot of interest and Lawrence was kept busy chatting to people all day.
Then on Friday came the news we were all waiting for but hoping it would not come, the whole Grand Prix Event was cancelled!
What a disaster and what a real shame, as all the teams were there and set up and cars were even on the pre grid waiting to go out.
Lawrence went in the help coordinate the collection of the display cars and after several phone calls and texts we managed to get all the cars picked up and the area cleared as the authorities wanted. Those that were there at the final moments said it was such an eery feeling with the track and surrounds looking like a ghost town.
Unfortunately this is something that had to happen for the safety of the public and all the drivers and officials and we would like to thank all our members and sponsors who attended and put their cars on display and also managed to drop things at very short notice and get the cars back out.
We look forward to returning in 2021 and hope that this ongoing situation doesn’t continue too long and we can all get back to some normality.
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