Australian Muscle Car Masters
Eastern Creek

The members who attended the 2010 AMC Masters had a great weekend away at Sydney’s Eastern Creek over the weekend 4th and 5th September. The group consisted of Gary Marriott, Wayne Doonan, John Atkinson, Steve Reed, Scott Gourley, Des Omara, Steve Rule, Ron Gordon and Peter Davis. Peter linked-up in Sydney on the Sunday.

Leaving Amberley on Thursday morning the group travelled in four XU-1s and made their way down to Muswelbrook to stay Thursday evening. Early Friday it was on to St. Marys in Sydney. By this time some of the group was already looking for a rest and some refreshments in anticipation of the next two days of motor racing on the Saturday and Sunday. And they were not to be disappointed either.

Saturday morning arrived and the weather was showery and this made for some great racing. Eastern Creek is an excellent circuit, twelve turns and approximately 3.9 kilometres long made the quality of racing something special. Between Group Nc, Nb, Group A and C, Aussie Racing Cars, Touring Car Masters one could not ask for more close and exciting racing. On top of all of this there was the official merchandise, team merchandise, trade displays, autograph sessions and model car displays. Visitors were allowed into most areas of the track including the pits.

The Sunday was a sunny but windy day and the racing was just as good. The whole event is a unique celebration of Australian icons, cars and drivers. To experience the amazing sights, sounds and nostalgia will be something none of the group will ever forget. For those who experienced motor racing back in the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s this was like going back in time.

The XU-1s were part of the invited club marquee and were parked in the Car Club Corral in an enclosed area near turn one. In total there were twelve XU-1s on display. All day along there was a constant stream of people eager to look over the cars. One of the highlights on the Sunday was a two lap drive around the circuit. The XU-1’s had the privilege to lead the way with Steve Rule’s car directly behind the pace car. This was once again one of those unique experiences not to be forgotten.

Monday morning arrived and the group left Sydney on a sunny morning bound for Coffs Harbour. After being caught in some of Sydneys morning traffic we eventually arrived at 'Gong’s' place and it was pure magic to see 'Torana Heaven' again. The man has so many parts and cars it left us all a bit envious. Plumdinger LC XU-1s, Lone O’Ranger LC XU-1 as well as the variety of Torana parts coupled with Gongies generosity made the short visit an enjoyable stopover.

On the Tuesday morning we proceeded to Brisbane and the cars performed well with no problems. However, with the empty feeling that the trip was drawing to an inevitable end we said our farewells along the highway. The boys separated not only with great memories of motor racing, but also with new friendships and most importantly the strengthened values of mateship. This was truly a 'boys' weekend that was enjoyed by all.

Ron.