SM Grand Tour II 2006

SM Grand Tour II Report

The weather for the second Grand Tour of SMs on the 12th-13th August was even better than the Inaugural Tour, Albury had done us proud with clear calm sunny days and 20 degrees, it was perfect.

Ten first-time attendees joined the regulars and enjoyed the Saturday afternoon picnic and casual introductions as they talked about their cars and SM experiences. Ian’s freshly arrived Black car was stunning, John Dirst brought his Beige Thornelet one-owner car and Tim Baber’s Vert Argent was a debutante that drew plenty of applause. Steve and Mary’s beautiful Kashmir car and the Silver SM of Mel Carey looked a treat with Eric, Bill, Keith, Brian and the other regulars, and of course Marcel’s car topping off to the display

Photos and a video of proceedings were taken by Marcel’s grandsons Chris and Michael and their father Peter Erb. Their professional equipment and abilities will ensure a very impressive record is produced of the entire weekend.

The Dinner at the Commercial Club was, as last year, an enjoyable event with excellent food, interesting discussions, and many new friends to meet. The highlight was the full screen video of last year Tour which was taken by Chris; it brought back all the great memories and set the stage for Sunday.

Unfortunately a last minute health scare to our guest speaker Joe Cordo saw him in hospital and our wishes go to him for a speedy recovery, Joe has indicated that with good health next year he would love to attend the SM Grand Tour III

Most headed home by midnight to be ready for the full day ahead but one group were seen partying on for some hours, returning to the motel …eventually….!!!

Sunday at 8.00 was the crisp and the morning mist added a surreal effect as we cruised the 130kl around the edge of the Weir to Corryong rising out of the mist and into the sun with the snow capped mountains and green pastures then diving down into the mist again. The sweeping open country roads allowed the owners to experience their cars doing what they were designed to do and to really appreciate their cars in the best of environments. From Corryong to Khancoban the roads and scenery got even better and most took full advantage or the perfect driving conditions to experience their cars in full flight!!!!

Morning tea at beautiful Khancoban and a brief photo shoot of the SM display bought out the locals before the run to Tumbarumba proved the highlight of the day.

65kl of the best hi-speed mountain roads imaginable, sweeping thru the foothills and stunning valleys in a ribbon of SMs was an unforgettable experience, only those who were there can appreciate how memorable it was, it certainly was a drive I will always remember.

Wine tasting and a late lazy lunch at the Red Café in Tumba. and we all set out on the trip home with a wonderful experience behind us. The cars covered over 1200 kl. on the Grand Tour and proved to their owners just why they are considered one of the `Automotive Masterpieces` of all time. The Grand Tour II was an outstanding event and again achieved the purpose of providing a situation where the driving potential and pleasure of the SM can be maximized and appreciated. Too often the cars sit idle for years, although their visual beauty is evident it is only when they are used in the way they were designed to be used can their ownership be fully rewarded and enjoyed.

Roll on `SM Grand Tour III` ……………….

Peter McLeod

PS Great photos by Chris and Peter Erb are available at http://smtour.webstore.dvdvideo.com.au/

First arrival was Mel Carey .