By Alesha Capone
Russell Thompson’s green 1950 Dodge Coronet will be among the many impressive vehicles on show when the Werribee & District Collectable Vehicle Club hosts its annual Car Show and Shine.
Mr Thompson said he purchased the Dodge Coronet – one of just six which were imported into Australia – while living in Wagga Wagga, eight years ago.
“The car still has its original paint but I had to rebuild engine and breaks and re-pad the interior,” Mr Thompson said.
The car’s former owner served in the military, while living in Japan, and the Dodge Coronet had been his staff car.
Upon returning to Australia, he brought the car across to use as a family car.
Mr Thompson, who now lives in Point Cook, said the Dodge Coronet featured in the royal vehicle entourage when Queen Elizabeth visited Wagga Wagga during 1954.
Mr Thompson said he enjoyed going on outings in the Dodge Coronet with other members of the Werribee & District Collectable Vehicle Club, in addition to participating in displays at aged homes and the annual Show and Shine.
“Least year we had 200 cars at the event,” he said.
The Car Show and Shine will be held from 9am-4pm on Saturday, March 15 in the rear carpark of the Wyndham Civic Centre.
The event will feature raffles, trophies, food and trade stalls, and children’s entertainment including facepainting.
Werribee CFA will conduct rescue demonstration and a barbecue will be held, with proceeds going to Camp Quality. Details: www.wdcvc.org.au/
