Patron’s Run

The weather report for Wednesday November 4th was for thunder storms around the Adelaide Hills and the Murraylands. We packed umbrellas and jackets in our vehicles in “anticipation of the precipitation!”
Some twenty vehicles and forty three club members and guests departed from Murray Bridge and travelled via the Old Princes Highway through Nairne to Woodside.
Our first visit was to Collectable Classics, where proprietor, Ben Finniss, gave us an insight into his third generation car dealership business, which specialises in vintage, classic and collectable vehicles. Eighty percent of his business is via the internet, dealing with customers from interstate and overseas.
The business would not survive if dealing solely within South Australia, because of its relatively small population and economy, compared to the eastern states. Nevertheless, Ben had some interesting vehicles on display for us to admire.
After morning tea, we thanked Ben for his hospitality and the run continued via Mount Torrens to Birdwood for lunch at the Blumberg Hotel. Rebecca and her staff provided us with an excellent meal in a private dining area.
The storm clouds were brewing as we departed for Mannum.
Everyone who carried a mobile phone received text messages from the SES warning us of severe thunder storms and flooding. As we crested the Palmer Hills, lightning, dark clouds and storms were just ahead of our group. The roads were wet and large amounts of storm water pooled each side of the road.
As we entered Mannum, we were met by flood warning signs and stormwater flowing along the streetscape, but the Patron’s Run had miraculously avoided the storm – I’m sure it had nothing to do with Howard being an apology for the run!
At Mannum, we visited Bob Holland’s home, where he has a collection of speedway cars and memorabilia (some 4000 photos). Bob spoke about his lifelong passion with speedway, from his childhood, when he attended as a spectator, to his many years competing in various sections – T.Qs, Valiant Chargers, Rods, Demo Derby’s and currently, Classic Speedway in Speed cars.
An amazing collection of pre 1980’s memorabilia was viewed, whilst also enjoying afternoon tea supplied by Bob. We had arrived at Bob Holland’s house at approximately 2:15pm – some of us only left at 5:00. Every question asked of Bob gave him a reason to find another photo album or file.
After thanking Bob and his helpers for their time and efforts, we concluded our Patron’s Run and departed for Murray Bridge-and still no rain. The Patron’s Run Quiz was held – no-one was successful in answering all questions correctly-with the best score being 21 from 23 questions. The winner will be announced at the Club Presentation Dinner.
Thanks to all who came along and enjoyed the day – Claude and Liz