By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Turning a profit can be a challenge for vintage-car swap-meet enthusiast Ian Clark.
Quite often, his eye is grabbed by other sellers’ wares. And he ends up buying more bric-a-brac than he sells.
There’s also the dreaded Murphy’s Law – that you’ve just finished off renovating a beloved car and then you spot a relevant part for it.
Mr Clark is president of Dandenong Valley Historic Car Club, which is holding its popular 40th annual car swap meet in Berwick.
More than 5000 prospective buyers are likely to flock to the meet’s stalls.
With up to 600 sellers expected, Mr Clark is bound to find something to whet his appetite for old Chevvies.
Among his collection of vintage hearses and utes is a 1937 Chevrolet Sloper with a teardrop caravan.
“You can drive all day in it. It’s lovely and comfortable, and keeps up with everyday traffic.”
He recently drove his 1946 ex-military ute on a 7000-kilometre trek in central Australia – while only once being bogged.
Mr Clark said the 200-strong club had formed a friendship with Akoonah Park Mens Shed members, many of whom share a love for old cars.
At the meet, food will be sold by Rotary Club of Cranbourne.
The swap meet is at Akoonah Park, Cardinia Street, Berwick from 6am on Saturday, 3 February. Details: Ian Clark, 0419 312 304.
