DARLING DOWNS CHAPTER
Established September, 2005
The MG Car Club was formed in 1954, the club is composed of motoring enthusiasts who enjoy all makes of motor vehicles, not just MGs and provides activities for all aspects of motoring, sporting, and social, present membership Stands at 690.ds at 690.
The Darling Downs Chapter was formed in September 2005, and since that date the chapter has grown strongly with a growing list of members in Toowoomba, Warwick and as far west as Roma, who, enjoy access to all the benefits of the parent body at a reduced membership rate.
MG Car Club of Queensland promote sporting and concourse events at a State and National level in addition to a strong calendar of club activities, technical and historic information can be accessed from the club web site. Darling Downs' members enjoy regular monthly day runs and midweek lunch meetings, organized alternately by the chapter conveners of Toowoomba and Warwick.
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Day runs commence on the last Sunday of the month from the information centre on James Street Toowoomba, or, Lesley Park Warwick, at 8.00am in the summer months and 9.00am in the winter.
For further information contact Darling Downs's Conveners:
Glen Hadfield - DD Chapter Coordinator (replacing Gary Lawrence as from 1 Jan 2018)
Email: glenhadfield@outlook.com
Home phone: 07 4630 8872
Mobile: 0430 055 192
Work: 0409 486 670
Phil & Marilyn O’Brien – Midweek Run Conveners (replacing Ron & Judy Gillis as from 1 Jan 2018)
Email: obrienrallysport@hotmail.com
Mobile: 0488 750 037
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Click here for 2020 calendar. of events
DARLING DOWNS CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
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Lunch Run - 11 September, 2019
The Meringandan Hotel was once again a wonderful destination for the monthly lunch get together of Darling Downs Chapter members. Six couples and one loner headed for Meringandan, a popular spot because of the large servings and quality of food and atmosphere.
It was great to welcome back Dennis and Imelda Logan from their 10 weeks away and Lauren & Steve Ingerson in their MGA. Plenty of time for relaxed catch up, including discussions about the upcoming overnight run to Canungra in October.
Participants:
Phil & Marilyn O’Brien Toyota GT 86
Rob & Narelle Fraser Toyota
Ron & Judy Gillis MGB
Gary Lawrence MGB GT V8
Lauren & Steve Ingerson MGA
Dennis & Imelda Mercedes
Gene & Faye Lucas MGTD
Monthly Run, 29 September, 2019
A fine, almost clear day greeted 10 shiny examples of English motoring for our monthly Sunday run, organised by Marilyn and Phil O’Brien. After weeks of dust and smoke, it was nice to see some light showers work to clear the air. We were joined along the way by Greg Newey in his MGBGT.
Warwick & Toowoomba members met at Apex Park in Allora. After greetings & Koala spotting, we left the highway for interesting and quiet back roads. This allowed for close up viewing of Scottish Highland cattle and wallabies (a bit too close) as they grazed unperturbed on the verges of the road as we motored by.
Crossing the New England highway, we passed through the sleepy villages of Hendon, Wheatvale & Sandy Creek, arriving at Lesley Dam for fresh scones, jam & cream prepared by Marilyn earlier that morning. Suitably refreshed, a short walk to the dam wall revealed what 5% capacity really look like … not much.
Cycle events saw us re-outed to go unimpeded via Warwick outskirts and Junabee to Killarneys watering hole. Passing the Warwick airstrip keen navigators spotted several gliders struggling to gain elevation. In fact one must have had engine failure as he was being towed.
Killarney Hotel supplied reasonable priced generous portioned meals. Surprisingly members had not exhausted conversation over morning tea and much more banter continued over lunch. The return trip was not via Yangan due to possible road closures (bikes) but straight to Warwick, where members departed the convoy for home.
Participants:
Phil & Marilyn O’Brien Triumph TR7
Graham Hickson MGB GT
Gary & Janis Lawrence MGB GT
Brian & June Phillips MGB GT
Greg Newey MGB GT
Ian & Jennifer Roberts MGB
Denis & Imelda Logan MGB
Cheryl Francis & Frank MGB
Delia Morey & Alesha MGB
Ron & Judy Gillis MGB
Gene & Faye Lucas MGTD
Canungra Overnight Run - 15 to 18 October, 2019
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Canungra, located in the foothills of the Lamington Plateau at the base of Mount Tamborine, was the destination for our overnight run in October. It is a couple of years now since the Darling Downs Chapter embarked on an overnight run so 2019 became the year for us to get back to our extended tours.
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Local participants, Ron and Judy Gillis, Denis and Imelda Logan, Rob and Narelle Fraser, Gene and Faye Lucas, Brian and June Phillips together with Gary and Janis Lawrence met at the Toowoomba Visitor Information Centre for a 0830 departure.
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Traversing rural roads through Gatton, Laidley and Grandchester into Rosewood we enjoyed our first morning tea at Johnstone Park where Barry Lutwyche and Jan Burke joined us for the tour. One of the attractions of our Rosewood stop was a Pie Van, which, as it turned out, was the purveyor of wonderful pies with mushy peas; all I can say is yum yum!
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Leaving Rosewood, we travelled through rolling countryside passing some interesting historical attractions such the Dixon Baseline survey marker and the well-known Harrisville Pub to our Canungra our home for the next three nights.
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The obligatory happy Hour was soon upon us and of course we had to honour the tradition before heading to the Canungra Hotel for dinner.
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Day two was a short run to O’Riellys Resort on the Lamington Plateau. 37 Km of winding, narrow, uphill road with a number of hairpin turns, a MG drivers delight of course, and a very rough section close to the resort soon convinced us that short in distance does not necessarily equate to short in time.
Canungra Overnight Run (cont.)
Fortunately, we arrived intact with only a couple of minor issues. Thanks to the rough section, the speedo in Gary & Janis’ recently acquired BGT V8 stopped working and Brian Phillips suffered the ignominy of finding his horn in his lap, or at least the button from it anyway.
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O’Riellys Resort, steeped in the history of its founder Bernard O’Rielly who in 1937 discovered the crash site of the Airlines of Australia Stinson aircraft, now appears very tired and in need of refurbishment. That said the treetop walk with its suspension bridges is certainly worth visiting.
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Happy Hour (again!!) and a self-catered barbeque at the Motel rounded out the day.
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Day three we headed up the ‘Goat Track’, another section of steep winding road with wonderful MG curves, to North Tamborine for breakfast at the Mountain Brew Café; Following a wander around Gallery Walk and its many art and craft type shops, well shall we say the ladies wandered while the men found a shady spot to sit and wait, we headed to Beechmont through the Guanaba Valley and Maudsland. Yes, and we encountered more steep and winding roads (no complaints from the drivers!!) with some stunning views back over the Gold Coast skyline and Advancetown Dam.
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We stopped at Rosins Lookout for smoko only to discover we had a couple of mechanical issues. Brian and June in the GT had a flat battery and Rob and Narelle’s Mini Copper S was heading to the same place with the generator light glowing brightly, an obvious no charge situation. Both made it back to Canungra where both issues were rectified, Brian with a new battery and Rob with a borrowed charger breathing extra life into the cells. I do have a recollection of Rob and Narelle quietly chanting, I hope it gets us home tomorrow, I hope it gets us home tomorrow!!
The drive through Beechmont highlighted the intensity of the recent bushfires in the rugged country around Canungra. The burnt out remains of Binna Burra Lodge were clearly visible from Roisins Lookout along with the brown scarring in the tree lines, indicative of the path of the fire.
Day four and it was time to head home. We basically retraced our forward route stopping at Johnstone Park in Rosewood for smoko and to farewell Barry Jan for their run to Brisbane while the rest of the group headed for Toowoomba.
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And yes, the Pie Van was there again and yes some did indulge in pies and mushy peas!
Apparently, Rob and Narelle’s chanting paid dividends as the Mini made a successful return to Toowoomba without a functioning generator; Gary has since repaired the speedo in his BGT V8 the problem being nothing more serious than a loose connection; however, the current fate of Brian’s horn is unknown.
Monthly Run, 27 October, 2019
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A weather forecast of 35 degrees for the Lockyer Valley on Sunday, didn’t deter 11 members gathering at Mt Kynoch for the September run. This run, organised by Michael & Marilyn Keating, would take us down the range to Esk via Lake Perseverence. Our first stop was at the Eastern Spillway, where we were able to see some water, at least, in the Lake. It is such a shame that the very dry conditions that are being experienced at present, was evident on the hill sides where many of the native trees had died. It was soon time to move on and head for Esk, through the back roads to connect with the Esk Hampton Road. This road is an MG Owner’s delight, perfect for trying out the cornering manoeuvres on the downhill run. After an hour and a quarter, we arrived in Esk where we had a planned morning tea stop. Although some members had a problem distinguishing their right side from their left, we were soon gathered under the picnic shelters enjoying a much-needed cuppa.
Lunch was beckoning, so it was off again along the Gatton Esk Road, then turning off to follow more quieter roads through the township of Coominya and the small village of Mt Tarampa before arriving at the Tarampa Hotel for lunch. By this time, the effects of the heat were well and truly showing, so a visit to the bar for a cold drink was the first thought on everyone’s mind.
Gene and Faye Lucas were unable to participate in the morning run to lunch, but joined us at the Hotel. Unfortunately, there was some problem with the air conditioning so we had to make do with a gentle breeze from the fans. After an enjoyable lunch, lots of chit chat and trying to solve the world’s problems, members returned home at their own convenience. A good day was had by all.
Participants included Glen & Bev Hadfield, Michael & Marilyn Keating, Gaye Hawkshaw and friend Liz, Darryl & Yvonne Bell, Owen Douglas and mate Ken, Ron & Judy Gillis, Glen & Liz McKone, Cheryl & Frank Francis, Brian & June Phillips, Danny & Toni Gillis, Gary & Janis Lawrence, Gene & Faye Lucas.
DARLING DOWNS CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
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10 July, 2019 – Lunch Run
Our July Lunch Run, once again organised by Marilyn and Phil O’Brien, saw another beautiful winter day – shame the wind showed its ugly head. The “Grateful 7” enthusiasts did, however, enjoy delightful food and stimulating conversation at the Leyburn Hotel, one of our favourites. The pub always does a great meal and the ambience is relaxed and friendly.
Health and holidays have kept a lot of our regulars away this month, so only the four cars were utilised to enjoy the outing at such a beautiful time of year for sports cars.
Participants: Phil & Marilyn O’Brien (TR7); Greg Newey (MGB GT); Gene & Faye Lucas (MG TD); Gary & Janis Lawrence (MG TF).
21 July, 2019 – Warwick Jumpers and Jazz
Once again, the Chapter ventured to the Warwick Jumpers & Jazz car show to join some 180 other motor enthusiasts. The event is always one of the most enjoyable on the calendar – apart from the wide range of cars, bikes and other vehicles, the atmosphere in the streets is worth the drive alone. Plenty of Jazz, people, food and, of course, jumpers on trees.
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MGCC members, Greg Newey and John McLean are locals and help with the organising of the event each year, and do a great job. Scheduling and parking that many cars in the main street is not an easy job. The weather and the event were exceptional and highly recommended for others looking for a few days away from home. The festival runs over a couple of weeks, with activities in Warwick and surrounds every day and night.
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Participants: Greg Newey; Cheryl & Frank Francis (MGB); Owen & Kay Douglas (MGB); Ian & Jenny Roberts (MGB); Darryl Bell (MGB); Glen & Liz McKone (MGB); Glen Hadfield (MGB).
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14 August, 2019 – Lunch Run
Our annual picnic at Steele Rudd Memorial Park in East Greenmount, organised by Phil & Marilyn O’Brien, saw yet another dry day – although a little cloudy, no real promise to get any relief from the dry spell. The lack of rain and the very dry surrounding country were the real topics of the day, but we still enjoyed our usual mid-month chit chat and a wonderful opportunity to catch up as usual.
14 August, 2019 – Lunch Run (cont.)
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It was especially good to see Bob and Mavis Marsh again – thanks to Greg and Beth Newey for bringing them along.
Participants: Greg & Beth Newey (Falcon GT); Bob & Mavis Marsh; Gene & Faye Lucas (MG TD); Ron & Judy Gillis (MGB); Helen Goodfellow (MG TF); John McLean (GOLF-R); Phil & Marilyn O’Brien (Triumph TR7).
25 August, 2019 – Monthly Run
Our August monthly run, organised by Gene and Faye Lucas was a beauty. Initially meeting at the Toowoomba Visitors Centre (where all red vehicles took pride and place), the run down the range through the backroads of the Lockyer Valley was most enjoyable, despite the obvious impact of the long dry spell – emphasised by the low levels of Lake Dyer where we stopped for morning tea.
However, the chance to catch up, followed by Gene & Faye’s Australiana pop quiz, soon had everyone forgetting about the water problem. The winning team, Gary, Janis & Glen will hold that trophy for at least a year.
Morning tea was followed by a run to the Mulgowie Hotel for lunch – a fine venue for car and bike clubs. The final 10 km of the run was a second gear job as we apparently coincided our run with the finish of the Cycling QLD Charles Coin Memorial Race Day – well organised Gene.
The bonus was that all the MGs were applauded as we followed the cyclists over the finish line as unexpected guests. All made up for with a couple of drinks and a fine lunch.
On departure, our tardiness saw us, once again, caught up behind cyclists … never mind, it was a great drive with plenty of members in attendance.
Participants: Gene & Faye Lucas (MG TD); Glen Hadfield (MGB); Cheryl Francis & Jenny (MGB); Michael Keating (MGA); Rob & Narelle Fraser (MGB GT); Gary and Janis Lawrence (MGB); Owen & Kay Douglas (MGB); Ron & Judy Gillis (MGB); Brian & June Phillips (MGB GT); Helen & Ian Goodfellow (MG TF); Ferne & Rob Callow (MG F); Phil & Marilyn O’Brien (Triumph TR7); Gaye Hawkshaw & Debbie (Ford Capri).
DARLING DOWNS CHAPTER NEWSLETTER
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5 May 2019 – RROC comes to town
May in the Darling Downs saw the Rolls Royce Owners Club holding their annual get together, culminating in the car show in Toowoomba’s Queens Park on the Sunday. Invites were extended to all auto clubs and the MG’s of the local chapter were part of a wide variety of vehicles. Fine weather and plenty of shine and free entry saw large crowds enjoying the display.
26 May 2019 – Monthly Run
The end of Autumn saw a great day for our monthly Sunday run that commenced with a hearty breakfast at Café 63 on the range – always good food and service to start the day and give everyone a chance to catch up on the latest. The following run, organised by Glen and Bev Hadfield, took us down the winding Flagstone Creek Rd into the Lockyer where we wound our way in various directions to eventually end up at Lake Dyer near Laidley an hour or so later. A good break for morning tea, chatter and other necessities before we headed back towards Toowoomba the long way, avoiding the highway for the most part via Gatton and Murphy’s Creek.
There were 17 participants on the day, including Gary & Janis Lawrence, Rob & Narelle Fraser, Andrew & Susan Willesden, Michael & Marilyn Keating, Steve & Lauren Ingerson, Owen & Kay Douglas, Glen & Bev Hadfield, Ian Andersen, Denis Logan and Brian Phillips.
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12 June 2019 - Lunch run
Phil & Marilyn O’Brien have been organising plenty of great lunches this year, and the return to the “Bull & Barley Hotel” in Cambooya is always popular. A lovely winters day saw 13 members congregate at the for a scrumptious lunch and catch up on lots of happenings, with a few members recovering from ill health, a few tripping about, new cars on the horizon and just general everyday life. Always a great opportunity. It was good to see Marilyn on her feet only 4 weeks after double knee replacement surgery. She promises to be back behind the wheel real soon and giving a hurry up to the lads at some club events around the traps.
12 June 2019 - Lunch run (cont.)
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Participants:
Phil & Marilyn O’Brien - Chrysler 300c
Gary & Janis Lawrence - MGTF
Brian & June Phillips - MGBGT
Gene & Faye Lucas - MGTD
Denis & Imelda Logan - MGB
Gay Hawkshaw & Emma - Ford Capri
Ron Gillis - MGB
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30 June 2019 – Monthly Run.
Last day of the month, and Ian Roberts had undertaken his first run as organiser – after some rather inclement days leading up to the run, Ian obviously took it upon himself to also organise the weather for what turned out to be a perfect day that didn’t even seem like winter. Even better was the breakfast location at Picnic Point Café in Toowoomba, where we enjoyed quality meals with a view, along with a good catch up chat to get us going.
Although hard to leave, Ian then took us on a run down into the valley, weaving our way towards Spring Bluff Railway station for an enjoyable morning tea un the grounds. While the final climb to the station is a 1st gear job for most, it’s always worth it when you hit the carpark surrounded by the gardens. A good rollup for the day, with 13 cars and 23 participants, including a couple who could only make breakfast for the catch up.
Glen & Bev Hadfield, Cheryl & Frank Francis, Ian & Jenny Roberts, Andrew & Susan Willesden, Michael & Marilyn Keating, Gene & Faye Lucas, Glen & Liz Mckone, Gaye Hawkshaw and Debbie, Cheryl & Ian Andersen, Rob & Fern Callow, Delia Morey, Brian Phillips and Ron Gillis were all involved.