Fiat Club Of NSW Information
Background
The club was formed in 1949 as the Fiat 500 Club of New South Wales by an enthusiastic group of Fiat 500 owner/drivers. Their enthusiasm was brought about by the baby of the three Fiat models available, the 500A or "Topolino", as it was affectionately called (small mouse). However, in 1956 it was decided to drop the "500" from the club name to cater for all models of Fiats, and we became the Fiat Club of New South Wales. In 1991 we incorporated so "Inc." is now added to our name.
Since the Fiat Company has now taken over Lancia, Ferrari and Alfa Romeo, any owners of these cars are also more than welcome to join our club, however, eligibility for club points is restricted to cars manufactured after the respective takeover dates.
Activities
On the second Tuesday of each month we have a social meeting where we conduct the clubs business and then get on with exchanging Fiat news and Views or watch a video or listen to a guest speaker. There's always something different. These are held at 8pm at the Western Suburbs Australian Rules Club. 40 Hampden Road Croydon Park.
On the competitive side, we hold many events. Sublime events such as our annual Concorso D'Eleganza will not risk any panel damage to your pride and joy. Trophies are awarded for the best car in different categories.
Not quite as sublime but not risking your car either are events such as Navigation and economy runs. These events test your navigational and driving skills and are always run on some of the most interesting and scenic roads around Sydney. Again trophies are awarded in each class.
A little bit more hectic are motorkhanas. These are tests of driving skill usually held in an open field around flags set up in certain patterns. The object is to drive the car around the flags in the correct manner, Without knocking any over, in the least amount of time. Sound easy? Come and try it. Its really not very hard on the car if you are just in it for the fun.
If you like your competition a whole lot more serious, then there are always the lap dashes and races in which our members participate. These are usually held at race circuits like Oran Park, Wakefield Park and Eastern Creek and if speed is for you, then we have members who can steer you in the right direction.
We also are regularly invited by other clubs to run in their events. Some of these can be Classic Rallies, which cater for owners of cars generally 20 years old or more. The events can run for 2 days to 5 days duration and really test out your navigational skills, but after the driving comes the socialising where new friendships are formed with other competitors.
Interstate Rivalry
Every year since 1964 we have had an Interstate Motorkhana against the other Fiat Clubs. This event began in Wagga Wagga against the Victorian club and gradually over the years, the Queensland club then the South Australian and A.C.T. club and in 2000 the West Australian club joined in the fun too. Up until 2004 the event has been held in Dubbo on a weekend in January, but has also been held in Forbes and Orange. The 'Fiat of Italy Cup', which was donated by the parent company, is a much prized yearly goal within each club, but the social intercourse that occurs around the pool over a few drinks is also what makes the weekend worthwhile. See separate heading of 'Nationals'.
Historic FIATs.
Within the club we have a group of historic FIAT enthusiasts who are more than willing to share their Knowledge and expertise with any member contemplating a restoration project. If your FIAT is 30 years old or more, then it is eligible to be registered as an Historic Vehicle and carry club plates for a much smaller fee than normal. (See separate link - historic vehicles) Regular outings for these enthusiasts are also organised, which are run at a much more leisurely pace than other events.
Ansell Park
In 1979 a group of members formed a company which purchased land at Windsor for use by the Club. Club members planted hundreds of trees, leveled the field and built a toilet block and we now maintain it with a FIAT Tractor (of course)and a couple of ride on mowers. Its main purpose is for Motorkhanas, but it also makes a good location for other types of events such as picnics, barbecues and display days.
Why Join a Car Club?
Good Question..... Besides the obvious social and competitive reason already outlined. there are also some more practical considerations. For example there is a wealth of knowledge that can be tapped to make mechanical work on your car easier., not to mention a knowledge of just where to obtain those hard to get parts. Our club is no exception. We also know where the best service can be obtained in case you are not a mechanical whiz yourself.
We occasionally also run Driver Training days at which even the best of drivers can learn a thing or two. We have found that motorkhanas are one of the best driver learning experience possible; even children as young as 12 are allowed to participate in these competitions. They not only compete but they are beating the adults! If you have children approaching the driving age, then motorkhanas are the best way to teach them car control skill before they are let loose on today's roads.
