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16th Chryslers on the Murray

          With rain leading up to the weekend, the skies cleared by Friday to allow us to set up and check-in at Motel Chrysler. The number of entrants had already grown to just under 400, we were in for a big weekend. Saturday dawned bright and sunny as   swap site vendor's unloaded their parts in preparation of the crowds of Chrysler enthusiasts. By mid morning entrant numbers had surpassed last years record of 432. Groups of cars had ventured out on the early run to the winery town of Rutherglen. Back at Oddies Creek Reserve, the Dodge City Chassis Dyno was up and running. Despite some teething problems early on, every time a vehicle was run onto the rollers, a large crowd gathered to check the rear wheel horsepower numbers.

         Later in the afternoon most entrants cruised out to the Ettamogah Pub to check out the R & S Series Valiant photo shoot on the back oval behind the pub. What a sight as 45 of the early Valiants gathered for the photo to celebrate 45 years since the first R Series rolled off the production line in 1962. The front carpark at the Ettamogah Pub was full of Chryslers as far as the eye could see. Over 300 cars lined up in every parking space available. Some entrants cruised back to Albury once the photo shoot was over, others simply settled in enjoying the view from the second story balcony of the pub. No doubt, dry throats were lubricated with the occasioned one, as the hot sun beat down.

         Saturday night the streets were a hive of activity as Mopars cruised the town and checked out the motel carparks, as each was like a mini show in it's self. In fact most entrants rebooked their motel for next year.

         Sunday morning the sun was out, and set the scene for what was going to be a huge day. The swap site vendors had a big day before, but nothing like what was in front of them today. This year we had 70 sites, with most catering for the Chrysler enthusiast. The parking officials were kept busy as more and more entrants drove in. The numbers passed 500 and kept going until finally slowing to 530 by lunch time, an increase of 100 entrants over last year. The Reserve was packed with Chrysler products from most eras, especially the American muscle cars of the 60's and the Australian muscle cars of the 70's. With the R & S Valiants in the spotlight, they took pride of place on the front rows, but from there back was a mix of Pacers, AP5/6's, PT Cruisers, Finned Chryslers of the 50's and even a hand full of Hot Rods. Chryslers on the Murray has a reputation for being a more laid back affair with a lot of restored cars, but there definately was some "new school" thinking with big wheels, twin turbo's and even a low blow supercharged 273 AP6 Ute which looked innocent enough with all the mechanicals under a stock bonnet.

         The catering is handled by the Albury Wodonga Chrysler Club as well, and they were kept busy by the 10,000 strong crowd. Entry was by gold coin donation, which was donated to the CFA & RFS. Leo Geoghegan was on hand, despite being unwell for most of the year with illness. He was only too keen to pass on fond memories of his time spent with Chrysler developing the Pacers and Chargers for Bathurst.

         At presentations time, the forty category winners received their trophies before the Top 10 vehicles drove through to collect their awards. Damien Veness made it back  to back winner for Car of the Show, but with different vehicles each year. Last year it was a Dodge D5N Pick up, this year a 1949 Dodge Coronet Coupe. Both vehicles are totally different to the normal cars built.

        The show is hosted by the Albury Wodonga Chrysler Club. (with just 27 members) Next years dates are the 14/15th & 16th of March 2008.