The Mini Mag

Volume 1 Number 6 August 1999.

MOCQ First Annual Kart Derby Day.

The morning of August 15, 1999 began with a group of Mini fanatics planning to have fun with a session at Ipswich Kart Hire. After our members were accounted for we decided to move on - it was such a beautiful day for driving we kept to our original idea to go for a scenic tour on the way to Willowbank. This gave our cars a chance to have some exercise and also allow us to take in the morning view of the distant ranges. Our trip took us to Peak Crossing and through Harrisville to eventually join the Warrego highway and return towards Ipswich to get to the track, a nice drive which totalled fifty kilometres and lasted around forty-five minutes. All were busting to have a go when we arrived so after the formalities of licences and teams had been decided it was time to start.



Since most members had not participated in this sport there was a little learning to do before getting down to some serious lapping. Most people settled in well and by having two fifteen minute runs it gave everyone time to reflect on how to achieve better results. During the period of waiting for a turn we organised a BBQ to feed these speedsters - once again, Tracey cooked a nice meal and we guessed right with food and drink with very little left over.



I must say that it is surprising how fast some of those old blokes we have in the club can go: this should ensure that there will be quite a demand for spare parts in the future if they drive their Minis like that. It was evident that this experience allowed our members to mix as a group and enjoy a true club atmosphere. May I take this opportunity to apologise to our editor for upsetting his line at the end of the straight, it’s a bit hard trying to go round a corner with someone sideways in front of you hey John!

Anyhow, everybody hit you anyway!

A good time was had by all and most of us cant wait to go back but we have Mini forty coming up so that will occupy our time over the next few weeks but we will do it again sometime.

A word must be said in favour of the staff at Ipswich Kart Hire who were courteous and helpful and made our day one to enjoy, the use of the BBQ was also appreciated as we did not need to supply our own. It makes organising a day out easier when one is dealing with professionals.



Once we completed our allotted time and left. We headed to Harties coffee shop for a chat and then set off for home. We will return here again as well - this is a good spot for one of our Mini Blitzes.

I have had wonderful support for both the Moogerah Run and now this and I really do appreciate it when others share my enthusiasm for Minis and club membership.

Thank you all from Darryl.