It certainly seems that the club is in good health with good numbers usually turning out for club nights since Vagn, Wayne, Josie and the team at Qualitat European Motors began hosting club nights in a much nicer environment than our old venue, so as I’ve said in the past, thank you to Qualitats for their continued support of the club.
Speaking of businesses who support the club, a special mention must go to Frank Pronk at Euro Auto Services who sponsors the club website, so big thanks to Frank. Remember, while these businesses generally support our hobby because they share our passion for Volkswagens and are enthusiasts themselves, without their generosity, many of the events we all enjoy couldn’t take place without their support (ie; funding). So please support the local businesses who support us. It’s a two-way street.
It’s also worth noting that EMD (Volkswagen New Zealand) has become increasingly closer to the classic VW scene in recent years and have also assisted in terms of manpower, presence and in a financial capacity with major events such as the VW Nationals, the Spring Jamboree and other events, so thanks go out to the team at EMD for their support.
This year has seen plenty of enjoyable club runs and outings, especially through the long hot summer we had in 2018/2019, and it has been especially pleasing to see plenty of new faces (and new cars) turn out for club events, but we’re always looking for suggestions for new runs, events and outings, so don’t be afraid to speak up if you know of any good venues, destinations or ideas for club gatherings.
It’s pleasing to see that the VW Nationals remains in a healthy state, with clubs around the country continuing to put up their hand to host the event. Unfortunately, I was overseas during the 2019 Nationals in Christchurch, but by all accounts, from those who attended and from posts I saw online and on social media, it was another fantastic event.
Also pleasing is that the guys and girls from Kapiti, a relatively new club, will be hosting the VW Nationals in 2020, so let’s all get behind Noel and the team in Kapiti for what promises to be another great event in the lower North Island next Easter.
As always, I’d like to thank those committee members who help out with arranging events and setting up our gazebo and barbeque at club outings such as the Spring Jamboree etc. Also, as always, a massive “thank you” to club secretary/treasurer Terry Sawyer who keeps us all informed of upcoming events and has become the unofficial club photographer during club outings and runs. So, thanks Terry for your enthusiasm and commitment to continue to keep us all up to date of what’s happening and what has happened in relation to club events.
Lastly, I’d like to thank all club members and the committee for your support during the last three years in my role of sitting in the president’s chair, but the time has come for me to step aside and vacate the chair and let someone else hold the post of president. Of course, I’ll still be heavily involved with the club and give the next president my full support, whoever that may be.
Andrew Bayliss
President – VW Owners Club, Auckland.