Jan (Swim-In)

If anyone wants a copy of our 2009 event Year of the Amphibian and Year of the Blitz 2 or our 2010 event Year of the Jeep let me know and I will organise a copy to be sent to you. In 2010 we had 266 vehicles which included 179 Jeeps. This was our largest gathering.

Thanks Rob. I can't see it ever getting as large as Beltring but it has changed over the years. I was 10 at the first event in 1980 and from only missing 2 years have seen the event make gradual changes. It was always a gathering where people didn't have to pay an entry fee. They just turned up and things were very casual for many years. After Back To the Track in 1995 the number of participants increased and people attended from all states of Australia rather than NSW and Victoria. Since 1996 we have had a program of events so that people know what time we are holding the main activities on Saturday. There have been a number of overseas visitors since 1996 and if anyone was planning to attend we would like to be able to welcome them to Australia and make sure they get to see why the Aussies love attending the Swim-In. If you take a look at our website there are event reports from 1980 and this shows the development of the gathering. www.corowaswim-in.org We encourage people to pre-register so we are given an indication of number of people, vehicles etc. For $15 they get a pack with far more than $15 of value. The funny thing is that people who come along for the first time always say "Why didn't I come along before". Richard Farrant has copies of the DVD's related to the gathering since 2002.

Hi all, The KVE Website has just been updated and includes the latest information on the 2012 event. Over the past few years we have had a number of people from all over the world. It would be good to hear from anyone who is planning to attend in March 2012. We have just submitted an application to the Corowa Shire and hope to be considered for a Council Grant. We should find out by the end of next week. Take a look at our website: www.corowaswim-in.org and see reports on our past events and newsletters which are put out 3 times per year. More details on the 2012 event will appear in our January 2012 newsletter and if you have anything you would like included please forward prior to the end of December. You may have some Wanted and For sale items or future events you would like promoted. If anyone has a story on a restoration project they have been doing please forward this to us. Richard Farrant is one of our Committee members and he is also our newsletter editor. To be included on our database or to ask any questions please forward me an email to kveinc@optusnet.com.au Each year we have a theme and DVD's are produced by Keith Webb from Image Control. In 2012 our theme is "Year of the 6x6". Future themes are:In 2013 the theme will be Year of theTrailed Vehicle or Equipment and Year of the Armoured Vehicle In 2014 the themes will be Year of the Fordand Year of WW1 In 2015 the theme with be Year of the Emergency Vehicle and Year of theGeneral Motors. Program of Activities: Participants commence arriving from the 10th March and the event officially starts on Monday 12th March. At the start of the week there are no planned events. This gives people the opportunity to visit places such as The Army Museum Bandiana and other local places such as wineries, antique shops etc. Wednesday 14thMarch: Visit to the South Corowa School at 10am. Drive out to the Owl’s Eye Rural and Military Museum on the Hopefield-Rand Rd approximately 15 kms from Corowa. BYO lunch. BBQ facilities will be available. In the afternoon we will visit the Lowesdale Public School and come back via the Redland Hills where there is a piggery. If time permits there is a collector in town with Vintage Tractors and Machinery. Fortunately we have 3 KVE members who live near Corowa who are organising thistrip. Thursday 15th March: Departing at approximately 8.30am from Ball Park Caravan Park. Visit to the “Finley and District Historic Museum and Log Cabin." It is in town on the Newell Highway at the Tocumwal end of town. They have a good collection of all sorts of items and equipment, and have engines, etc, that can be run while we are there. Entrycost $5 Friday 16th March: Departing at approx. 8.30am from Ball Park Caravan Park. Trip is to the Pentarch facility at Wangaratta. We anticipate the visit will be about 1 to 1 ½ hours. Trip one way is approx 1hour with some impromptu detours on the way back via the Boorhamen brewery and the Renaissance Chocolate factory. Friday night Guest speaker, dinner and dress up: The Corowa Jump Shak will organise ameal. It will probably be a spit roast with potatoes, salads and bread for $18per head for adults and $9 per head for children. Desserts will be at an extracost. Participants will be required to contact Tim and Tabitha directly. Phone:0415 704748 or email: timmy_tj@bigpond.net.au In the evening we are hoping to have John Belfield as our guest speaker at Corowa Airport. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their favourite outfits. Saturday 17th March: Vehicles will line up at Bangerang Parkfrom 7.30am and participate in the parade to the Corowa Airport where there will be a photo shoot and swap meet. In the evening there will be an auction and presentations. Sunday 18th March: KVE will have a General Meeting at 10am. In the evening there will be a meal at one of the local hotels.

Hi all, It is now 9 months until our next gathering at Corowa, NSW, Australia. Our theme will be Year of the 6x6 and there are many people already planning to have their vehicles at this show. We also encourage people with other ex-military vehicles to attend. The event commences on Monday 12th March and the final activities occur on Sunday 18th March. We have just released the 9th KVE newsletter so if you would like a copy please send me an email: kveinc@optusnet.com.au Our next AGM and General Meeting is on Saturday 23rd July at Corowa. We will then be able to inform participants of our official program. Shortly there will be stories in a few of magazines such as Vintage Roadscene, The Pathfinder, Military Machines International etc. Over the past few years we have had a number of military vehicle collectors come out specially for our event and we look forward to more overseas guests in the future. Regards Jan Thompson - KVE Inc Secretary

Our next GPA Swim-In and Ex-Military vehicle rally at Corowa, NSW, Australia is 7 weeks away. I would be interested in hearing if anyone on this forum is planning to attend. Here is the latest information: SWIM-IN PARTICIPANTS The January edition of the KVE News has been released. If you require a copy send an email to kveinc@optusnet.com.au A Swim-In Information Caravan (Site Office) will be set up at Ball Park Caravan Park to assist you with information regarding activities over the week. Due to the large number of participants we are expecting please come to the Site Office as soon as possible after arriving in Corowa. Times will be as follows: Monday 14th March: 8.30 -11.00am and then 3.00- 6.00pm Tuesday 15th March: 8.30 -11.00am and then 3.00- 6.00pm Wednesday 16th March: 8.30-11.00am and then 3.00-6.00 Thursday 17th March: 8.00-1.00pm and 3-6pm Friday 18th March: 8.00-1.00pm and 3-6pm Saturday 19th March: There will be a Site Office at Corowa Airport opening at 8.30am. For people arriving on the Saturday morning they must go straight to Bangerang Park where the parade leaves from and sign in their vehicle. You will be met by people in fluorescent jackets and we will try and quickly register people in. Sunday 20th March: 8.00-10.00am Please note the following: (1) Please stop at the Site Office upon arrival to pay your $10 Entry Fee (if you haven’t already paid) and ensure you get a vehicle attendance number. If you have preregistered your pack will contain your vehicle certificate. Check to make sure it is correct. If any mistakes return the certificate to the Site Office and put a note on explaining what information needs correcting. It is your responsibility to come back the following day and collect the new certificate. If you haven’t preregistered a blank certificate will be in your pack and it is up to you to have it written on. You will need to fill out the Participant Register as a record of your attendance. (2) Place the Participant Number on your windscreen if possible. If you have no windscreen it can be put on your front bumper bar. We have tape or spray adhesive for you to use. (3) If you are staying Sunday night, place your names on the list for the dinner at the Royal Hotel so we can provide them with approximate numbers. (4) Come and make yourself a free coffee or tea at the Site Office. (5) Write up For Sale and Wanted Advertisements and look at the noticeboards to see articles on past events. (6) If you have any newsletter articles on past Swim-In events please speak to Jan. (7) Please give any donations for the Auction to someone at the Site Office. Merv and Beth Kennedy will be cataloguing all the items. (8) Auction & Presentations on Saturday 19th March: We would like to commence the Auction and Presentations at 7.30pm sharp. (10) Voting Forms: We have a Jerrycan at the Site Office where you can put your voting forms and make any suggestions. As you register your vehicle for the event a form will be given to you to complete to indicate ideas for future activities at Corowa, people who deserve awards or recognition, ideas for a theme in 2015. These must be submitted my 12 Midday on Saturday. KVE will have a stand at the Airport so last minute forms can be submitted. (11) A whiteboard in front of the Information Caravan will advise of 'Today's and Tomorrow's Activities'. Please check this daily in case of time changes. (12) We require volunteers to assist with the parade on Saturday. We plan to categorise the vehicles and will require a person to be in charge of each group. Place your name on the list provided at the Site Office. To make this easier please leave your mobile number. The parade will depart from the parking area near Bangerang Park (Near the Bowling Club not near the entrance to Ball Park Caravan Park). Tracked vehicles will line up in Edwards St. (13) Our Site Office is manned by volunteers. Your cooperation with completing the required forms and information would be greatly appreciated. You don’t have to be a member of KVE to man our site office. Please contact Jan if you are able to help. This is a great way of getting to know lots of people. (14) Volunteers are required for the following: Site Office at Ball Park Caravan Park Marshalls for the parade on Saturday People to assist with the Auction on Saturday night. Please advise someone at the Site Office if you can help during the week with any of these tasks or other tasks that may arise. (15) Entry form for 2012. This form is in your participant pack. You may complete and hand back to the site Office during the week. With the Theme – Year of the 6X6. It is advisable to pre-book your accommodation, including powered tent sites. (16) Membership to KVE Inc: KVE is the organisation formed to run the Swim-In. Membership is open to participants who would like to be involved. (17) Corowa Airport: We are using the airport as a second location for this event. Please abide by their rules. The main one is STRICTLY NO DOGS. These rules apply at all airports. (18) Entry Forms: Please send your entry form in ASAP. Those who have pre-registered by 28th February will receive free mementoes and an official participant pack. Those who have provided us with the details of the vehicle they will be bringing will have a completed certificate in the pack. If you change your mind and decide to bring another vehicle please let us know so we can ensure the right certificate is in the pack. We have received vouchers from local businesses so to make the most of these make sure you collect your pack upon arrival in Corowa at the Site Office in Ball Park Caravan Park. (19) Memorial Board for enthusiasts who are no longer with us: Each year we loose some well known military vehicle collectors. KVE has a Memorial Board and would appreciate an A4 size article including a photo of any person who has attended Corowa so we can remember these people. This year we lost Peter Toohey and Lynda Toohey from Coffs Harbour, Bob Dimer from WA, Maureen Bell, Geoff Winnington-Ball, Vic Phillips, Reg Grant (relative of Phil Rider) and James Swan. There are probably others who are very sick and KVE would like to pass on best wishes to these people. Bob Dimer, Maureen Bell and Geoff Winnington-Ball had been KVE members. (20) 2010 Year of the Jeep DVD: This will be available at the 2011 event for $40 each. Keith Webb will be making a 2011 DVD so please be prepared to be filmed to be part of this new DVD. Keith is looking for unusual stories or restorations, as well as filming some good action at the event. Past DVD’s of the event will also be available at the Site Office. Look out for the specials. (21) Day trips: Thursday 17th March:  Oaklands Central School  Oaklands and Berrigan. Pentarch Defence management and administration team are based in Melbourne and manufacturing and processing operations are conducted at Oaklands and Wallerawang in NSW. Business Activities: • Disposing of ammunition by breakdown method, separating components into constituent materials, achieving maximum recycling opportunity and minimal environmental impact • Recycling and refurbishing of common types of Australian Defence Force ammunition packaging, which has created employment opportunities in Australia and reduced costs to the Commonwealth and the need for imported packaging • Distributing imported manufactured ammunition into Australia Additional Projects: • 1988 Commenced the introduction of the Steyr AUG rifle into the Australian Defence Force • 1994 Repackaged, stored and subsequently exported substantial quantities of specialised chemicals • 2003/04 Processed and repacked 10 million rounds of small arms ammunition for special application • 2004 Initiated a specialised engineering project to refurbish components of aircraft ammunition for the Royal Australian Air Force  Cottam Engineering at Berrigan. This business is owned by Jo Cottam who has visited our swim-in with the ‘Riverina Screamer’. There is also a few pages of information further in the newsletter associated with the Tractor Pulls. Cottam Engineering manufacture and repair components for Agricultural, Earth Moving and Mining industries. They specialise in gearcutting – design and manufacture of gearboxes and gearbox overhauls. Gearcutting of spur, helical and internal gears that can be machined up to 1.5m diameter. Modify existing drive gearboxes and drive trains. Most of their work entails gearbox manufacture and one-of products and modifications. They are situated in Corcoran Street, Berrigan NSW. Cottam Engineering was formed in 1978 as a private manufacturing and repair company. The present site was purchased in 1981 and developed into a practical and productive machine shop with separate welding shop - a total factory area of 720 sq met.. Joe has a total hands-on approach to all business activities and training of apprentices. Over the thirty years in business they have trained some exceptional apprentices and can say they have all stayed in the trade managing other enterprises or operating their own business. Most of their staff have stayed with the company for many years providing excellent experienced staff. Joe Cottam is a qualified Fitter and Machinist / Welder with forty years experience in diesel engineering, earth-moving equipment and general engineering. Joe has earned a high level of respect in his time in the industry. He is the business owner / manager and celebrated 30years in business in 2008. Joe Cottam formed the business on his own in 1978 operating in rented premises. Joe designed, built and operates the Modified Pulling Tractor “Riverina Screamer”. He has been involved with Modified Tractor Pulling for 24 years. Joe is a Life Member of Berrigan Apex, an inaugural member of Berrigan and District Development Association and Chairman of Y.C.S. Cottam Engineering participated in the Bridge to Bridge 2005 Solar Car Project and the 2008 Solar Car project with Finley High School (adopt a school program). Friday 18th March: Trip to North Tuppal Station, west of Tocumwal In June 2010 on the ABC’s Landline program there was a story the 145 year old shearing shed which has 72 shearing stands. It clocked up more than 3 million sheep in its first 10 years and is still one of the largest and best designed sheds in Australia. The famous woolshed, now part of North Tuppal, is an icon of the Riverina not only for its size but because it was the first shearing shed in Australia to move away from blade shearing by installing shearing machines. Original parts of the shed were built around 1864, but the large shearing board and massive yards were added in 1900 and it is still used for an annual shearing by the station owner Bruce Atkinson. The 72 stands were set up with 44 stands on one side, two groups of 14 on the other side and the wool race in between. This meant that no fleece had to be carried more than 25 metres to ensure more careful handling of the wool and enabled the boss to tell at a glance what every one in the shed was doing. Shearers were also expected to handle the wool carefully, and shearing stands were placed 1.8 metres apart (six feet) instead of the usual 1.5 metres (5 feet). Other unique features include the walls of the shearing board were boarded right up to the shafting, so sheep had no view of the machinery or movements on the board, double catching pen doors which swung both ways, and excellent light and ventilation. With a shoot from each shearing stand, some sheep were forced to jump over the belt of the steam engine to get to holding yards. (22) Extra events on Saturday 19th March at the Corowa Airport • Model Show At the Airport Terminal Building on Saturday 19th March to coincide with the Swap Meet. Organised by Scott Rough. There will be a model display in the Airport terminal building on Saturday. The Corowa Shire has welcomed this and we hope it will get bigger each year. This will be open all day from 9.45am or as long as the participants want to stay. We would like to involve the town more in this event and they are welcome to participate. This will be a good way to show of your modelling skills and those vehicles or military equipment we wish to own. So pack up some models and bring them along. For further information contact: Scott Rough on 0419 545801 • Eurokhana The Eurokhana will be on Saturday 19th March around 12:30 same as last year behind the RFS shed at the airport. It will be of similar design as last year maybe a few more gates. It will be a timed event, but the only competition will be against yourself. It will not be a race against others merely a chance to pit your skills as a driver and the knowledge of your vehicle. For safety reasons every vehicle will need an offsider All vehicles are encouraged to participate as the more variety we have the more fun it becomes. Scott will also need volunteers to help run it as it is far to much to ask only a couple of people to suffer the heat all afternoon. For further information contact: Scott Rough on 0419 545801 (23) Dinner function on Friday 18th March at 6.30pm - Gourmet BBQ: Cost $18 per person. The Corowa Jump Shak will provide a Gourmet BBQ for people who let them know ahead of time. This will include salads. Dessert will be available for a small fee also. To be put on the list contact Tabitha Hughes on 0415 704748. There will be a list at the Site Office at Ball Park and the Corowa Jump Shak. Numbers will be required by 6.00pm Wednesday. (24) Guest speaker talk and Driver’s Briefing on Friday 18th March at the Corowa Jump Shak from 7.30pm: Driver’s Briefing by John Oldenmenger followed by a talk by Hugh Davis and Alan Carpenter on the trip from Queensland to Alice Springs. TRACKERS 2010 – MILITARY VEHICLE RUN from Nerang to Alice Springs. (25) Program of Activities: We have kept the first few days of the event for people to visit places such as The Army Museum at Bandiana, local vineyards, junk yards, antique shops etc. Thursday 17th March: Trip to Oaklands and Berrigan. The trip will leave Ball Park Caravan Park at 8.30am sharp. There will be a visit to the Oaklands Central School and a tour of Oaklands Pentarch facility. Participants will then be able to have lunch in Berrigan prior to visiting Cottam Engineering who are manufacturers of gear boxes and large gears. Friday 18th March: There will be a trip leaving at 8.30am sharp to the historic woolshed North Tuppal Station, west of Tocumwal during the day. North Tuppal is approx 130kms from Corowa. 6.30pm - Gourmet BBQ: Cost $18 per person. The Corowa Jump Shak will provide a Gourmet BBQ for people who let them know ahead of time. This will include salads. Dessert will be available for a small fee also. To be put on the list contact Tabitha Hughes on 0415 704748. There will be a list at the Site Office at Ball Park and the Corowa Jump Shak. Numbers will be required by 6.00pm Wednesday. 7.30pm: Driver’s Briefing by John Oldenmenger followed by a talk by Hugh Davis and Alan Carpenter on the trip from Queensland to Alice Springs. TRACKERS 2010 – MILITARY VEHICLE RUN from Nerang to Alice Springs. Saturday 19th March: 9am sharp – Parade to Corowa Airport: Vehicles will line up at Bangerang Park from 7.30am and participate in the parade to the Corowa Airport departing at 9am sharp where there will be a photo shoot and swap meet. 9.45am: Swap Meet at Corowa Airport. The Corowa Rotary Club will be running the Swap Meet again in 2011 Model Show from 9.45am– at The Airport Terminal Building. 12.00MD: ensure your voting forms are submitted at the KVE Site Office at Corowa Airport. 12.30pm – Group photos of people associated with various forums such as the MVCA, MLU and REMLR. 1.00pm - There will be a Eurokhana (similar to a Motorkhana) again organised by Scott Rough. 7.30pm SHARP: Come and support the Auction and presentations on Saturday evening. We will not be organizing a meal on the Saturday evening. There is bound to be a combination of items of interest. We will be giving each person a numbered bidding card and we have a new auctioneer so we hope this will be a more effective way to run our auction. Remember to collect your bidding card. We are after extra lighting which would also make things easier. If anyone can help please let us know. Sunday 20th March: 10.00am: KVE Inc General Meeting 6.30pm onwards: For people staying on until Monday come along to The Royal Hotel for a final dinner. There will be a specials board. (If you plan to attend please put your name on the list at the Site Office so we can provide the Hotel with numbers of people.) All the best in safely getting to Corowa. KVE are looking forward to running this event again in 2011.

History of the GPA Swim-In and Military Vehicle Gathering Annually a group of ex-Military Vehicle Collectors gather at Corowa Airport and Ball Park Caravan Park in Corowa on the beautiful Murray River to display their lovingly restored military vehicles, conduct a parade, swap meet and have a ‘swim-in’ with amphibious vehicles. The event attracts collectors from throughout Australia and the world. There are clubs in each state. March 2011 represents the 32nd year of the gathering at Corowa. The theme will be Year of the British and European Vehicles. We also encourage ex-military vehicle owners with other makes and models of vehicles to attend the event where they can exchange information and parts. In 2012 it will be Year of the 6X6, in 2013 it will be Year of the Towed Equipment and in 2014 it will be Year of the Ford and WW1. The event was initially organised by Ian Grieve [Qld] and Alan Newton [sA] and was for Amphibious Jeeps [Ford Model G.P.A. ¼ -Ton 4X4 Amphibian] but with so much interest amongst military vehicle enthusiasts it became a large-scale gathering not only with GPA’s but also other historic military vehicles. People have asked “Why was Corowa chosen as the venue of this event?” Corowa, on the Murray River, just west of Albury is a fairly central location. It has fresh water, with easy river access and is an historic town. The collectors enjoy the wrecking yards and disposal stores in Albury and Wodonga. There are a variety of shops, wineries and antique shops to make this a family orientated event. The townsfolk of Corowa have always welcomed our presence and we look forward to returning each year to enjoy their hospitality and support. The majority of vehicles attending are of World War 2 vintage. They include many Jeeps, Blitz’s, Dodge Weapon’s Carriers, Studebakers, GMC trucks, White Scout Cars, Chev trucks, Ford trucks, Bren Gun Carriers, Harley Davidson Motorcycles, Amphibious Jeeps, DUKW’s and many more. The event also attracts members with post-WW2 vehicles including Landrovers, Saracen Armoured Cars, Ferret Scout Cars, HUMVEE [Hummer], ACCO Internationals and many others. In 1999 we achieved recognition by the Guinness Book of World Records for “the largest gathering of Ford GPA amphibious vehicles since the Second World War”. This number being 16 including the famous Amphibious Jeep “Half-Safe” which circumnavigated the world during the 1950’s and has been donated to the Guildford Grammar School in Perth. In March 2002 we achieved recognition by the Guinness Book of World Records for “the greatest gathering of privately owned Ford and Chev Blitz trucks since 1945”. In 2003 the theme was to get as many WW2 Studebaker trucks together. We had 21. In 2004 the Theme was ‘Year of the Dodge’. We had 34 Dodge’s. In 2005 our theme was ‘WW2 Pattern Carriers’. We had 21 Carriers. The theme for 2006 was ‘Armoured Cars’ and we had a variety of rare types of vehicles. In 2007 the themes were ‘Year of the Cycle and Year of the Staff Car’. In 2008 the theme was ‘Year of the Tracked Vehicle’. This was the first time people were able to view tanks driving down the main street of Corowa. 2009 represented the 30th year of this event and the themes were Year of the Amphibian and Year of the Blitz 2. Vehicles in the amphibian section included GPA’s, DUKW, LARC and a Buffalo. There were 43 Blitzs. A total of 194 vehicles participated in this commemorative year. There was a record number of vehicles for Year of the Jeep in 2010. A total of 266 vehicles which included 180 Jeeps. This has now become the largest gathering of ex-military vehicles in the Southern Hemisphere. The main days of activities are Wednesday 16th, Thursday 17th, Friday 18th and Saturday 19th March 2011. There is a trip planned on Thursday 17th March to Oaklands and Berrigan. We will be visiting the Oaklands Central School and sightseeing at Oaklands before going to Berrigan for lunch and viewing machinery owned by a collector in Berrigan. On Friday 18th March we are going to North Tuppal station which is approx 130kms from Corowa to look at the famous shearing shed and the town of Tocumwal. We will be in the town of Tocumwal for lunch. We will have a guest speaker talking on a trip to Alice Springs involving a number of military vehicles who travelled from Nerang in Qld. On Saturday the day commences at 9.00am sharp with a Procession through Corowa to the airport where there is a vehicle display and Swap Meet. In the evening we have Presentations and an auction. There is a website where people can obtain information and see pictures of past and future events. www.corowaswim-in.org For further information or registration phone: Jan Thompson on 0423 943010 or Email: kveinc@optusnet.com.au

It is now 13 weeks until Corowa 2011. The event commences on Monday 14th March and finishes on Sunday 20th March 2011. The theme is Year of the British and European Vehicles. Entries are slowly rolling in so at this stage it is difficult to determine how many participants we will have. There will be another newsletter out within the next month. If you would like to view past newsletters or reports on past events please look at our website: www.corowaswim-in.org If you would like to be put on our database send me an email. kveinc@optusnet.com.au We have an updated program: Thursday 17th March: Visit to Oaklands and Berrigan. We will depart Corowa at 8.30am and stop at the Oaklands Central School for approx 1 hour. We will then be visiting Pentarch Defence. Their management and administration team is based in Melbourne and manufacturing and processing operations are conducted at Oaklands. Here is some information: Business Activities: • Disposing of ammunition by breakdown method, separating components into constituent materials, achieving maximum recycling opportunity and minimal environmental impact • Recycling and refurbishing of common types of Australian Defence Force ammunition packaging, which has created employment opportunities in Australia and reduced costs to the Commonwealth and the need for imported packaging • Distributing imported manufactured ammunition into Australia Additional Projects: • 1988 Commenced the introduction of the Steyr AUG rifle into the Australian Defence Force • 1994 Repackaged, stored and subsequently exported substantial quantities of specialised chemicals • 2003/04 Processed and repacked 10 million rounds of small arms ammunition for special application • 2004 Initiated a specialised engineering project to refurbish components of aircraft ammunition for the Royal Australian Air Force On Friday 18th March we will be leaving Corowa early to visit North Tuppal Station which is 30kms west of Tocumwal. This historic shearing shed was featured on Landline in 2010 and after visiting the shearing shed we will have lunch in Tocumwal. In the evening we are going to have a guest speaker at the Corowa Jump Shak, Corowa Airport talking on the trip from Nerang to Alice Springs in 2010. People will be able to preorder a meal with Tabitha and Tim but will have to contact them and put their name down on a list. Saturday 19th March: The parade will go through the main street of Corowa at 9am sharp so vehicles will have to line up from 7.30am near Bangerang Park. A Swap Meet, organised by the Corowa Rotary Club will commence at 9.45am while the vehicles are lined up for the photoshoot. At 12.30 group photos will be taken of people associated with groups such as the HMVF, MLU Forum, MVCA Forum, REMLR etc. We are also planning to have another Motorkhana at the Corowa Airport during the afternoon. The water levels are up at the moment so there should be more water in the Murray River for amphibious vehicles. On Saturday evening we will hold a presentation and auction night so all donations are welcome. KVE would appreciate your entry forms ASAP so we can organise the participant packs, certificates etc.

We should be able to get some photos on here soon. In Victoria there is a paper called 'The Weekly Times' which comes out on a Wednesday. There is an article and they have some video footage. www.weeklytimesnow.com.au/country-living/index.html

I have just gone through the vehicle list and done a recount. Someone offered to do the count at Corowa but after a couple of questions from participants I can now give you the correct list. Note: 180 Jeeps not 179 Military Vehicle List for 2010: total 266 95 Ford Jeeps including 2 Mutts and 3 GPA’s 85 Willys Jeeps 24 Landrovers 9 Blitzes – 6 Chev • 3 x C60L, • 1 X C15, • 1 X C15A • 1 X C8AX 3 Ford • 1 X Cab 12 F60L, • 1X Cab 13 F60L, • 1X F60S 400 Gallon Tanker 2 M37 Dodges 1 WC 62 6X6 Dodge Weapons Carrier 4 Dodge WC 52 1 Dodge WC 51 1 Dodge WC23 Command Reconnaissance 1 DUKW 1 1941 Ford 01T 30CWT 1 Chev Truck 4 US6 Studebakers 1 International A17 Tractor 1 International H Model Tractor 1 Leyland Moke 1 NM Mack Gun Tractor 2 Hafflingers 2 Unimog 2 Austin Champ 1 Skoda 1101 Staff Car 1 RAAF Chev Master Deluxe Staff Car 1 International Mk 5 Tipper 1 1979 International 510 A Acco 1 Humvee 1 VW – 82 E Sedan 1 Kubelwagen 1 Humber FV1600 1 Ford M8 Greyhound Armoured Car 1 GMC CCKW truck 1 M3A1 White Scout Car 1 1953 Ford 4 Ton Troop Transport 6 BSA motorcycles 2 BSA parabicycle 1 BSA folding bicycle 1 Indian 741 B Motorcycle 1 BMW R71 Motorcycle 3 Harley Davidson motorcycles 1 1991 Yamaha XT 600 motorcycle 1 Oz Amphibian Platypus (not military)

Military Vehicle List for 2010: total 266 95 Ford Jeeps including 2 Mutts and 3 GPA’s 84 Willys Jeeps 24 Landrovers 9 Blitzes – 6 Chev · 3 x C60L, · 1 X C15, · 1 X C15A · 1 X C8AX 3 Ford · 1 X Cab 12 F60L, · 1X Cab 13 F60L, · 1X F60S 400 Gallon Tanker 2 M37 Dodges 1 WC 62 6X6 Dodge Weapons Carrier 4 Dodge WC 52 1 Dodge WC 51 1 Dodge WC23 Command Reconnaissance 1 DUKW 1 1941 Ford 01T 30CWT 1 Chev Truck 4 US6 Studebakers 1 International A17 Tractor 1 International H Model Tractor 1 Leyland Moke 1 NM Mack Gun Tractor 3 Hafflinger 2 Unimog 2 Austin Champ 1 Skoda 1101 Staff Car 1 RAAF Chev Master Deluxe Staff Car 1 International Mk 5 Tipper 1 International 1 Humvee 1 VW – 82 E Sedan 1 Kubelwagen 1 Humber FV1600 1 Ford M8 Greyhound Armoured Car 1 GMC CCKW truck 1 M3A1 White Scout Car 1 1953 Ford 4 Ton Troop Transport 6 BSA motorcycles 2 BSA parabicycle 1 BSA folding bicycle 1 Indian 741 B Motorcycle 1 BMW R71 Motorcycle 3 Harley Davidson motorcycles 1 1991 Yamaha XT 600 motorcycle 1 Oz Amphibian Platypus (not military)

Our 31st Annual GPA Swim-In and Ex-Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa was a huge success. We ended up with a total of 266 vehicles this year. I will post a complete list up in the next day or two. There were 179 Jeeps. I originally thought we might get 200 Jeeps but unfortunately a few had to pull out. There is always a number of people who preregister and are unable to attend and many who don't preregister who wish they did so once realising that the package they received was great value for money. We had a number of overseas guests which was great. Looks like some of them hope to return on an annual basis. The next event will take place from Monday 14th March to Sunday 20th March 2011 and the theme is Year of the British and Year of the European Vehicles.

You should plan to visit Australia one day. We have different themes each year now for vehicles and it encourages people to get their unrestored vehicles out of the shed. In 2011 it will be Year of the British and European Vehicles, 2012 will be Year of the 6X6 and in 2013 we will have year of the trailed equipment. Participants at Corowa in 2010 will get the opportunity to suggest a theme for 2014. Does anyone have any suggestions? We have already had Year of the Blitz, Year of the Studebaker, Year of the Amphibian, Year of the Dodge, Year of the Carrier, Year of the Cycle and Staff Car and Year of the Tracked Vehicle. The theme Year of the Jeep for 2010 has created lots of interest and we have had lots of promotion through an Australian Magazine - Jeep Action Australia.

I now have 121 entries and this includes 79 Jeeps. 36 are Ford, 39 are Willys and 4 are post WW2. Hope people are able to use the colour poster produced by Howard Holgate to advertise the event for us when you are on outings or even put it in your workplace. On Friday 4th December the Committee of KVE are meeting at Rosehill Bowling Club in Sydney. We will have further updates after this meeting. To promote this event you can stick together both attachments to form an A3 size poster. Programme of events Tuesday 9th March: Visit to Bandiana 1.00pm: Visit The Army Museum Bandiana. Wednesday 10th March: Visit to the Karinya Aged Care Facility. The convoy will depart Ball Park at 9.45am 2pm: Billy cart races at Ball Park Caravan Park Thursday 12th March: Trip to Maurice Wilson’s property: 10.00am departure from Corowa Airport 6.00pm: Corowa RSL Betterment Parade, Corowa - Lang Kidby will talk on the World War Two Military Vehicle Convoy Istanbul to Normandy: 65th Anniversary of the D-Day landings. Friday 12th March: Trip to Chiltern: We will visit the Wahgunyah Primary School, go on a bush run and a visit the Historic town of Chiltern. Saturday 13th March: Parade, Swap Meet and other activities 7.30am onwards: Commence forming up for the parade. 9am sharp. Parade commences from Bangerang Park 9.45am: Swap Meet at Corowa Airport. The Corowa Rotary Club will be running the Swap Meet again in 2010. 12.30pm: MLU Forum group photo and MVCA group photo 1.00pm: Gymkhana at Corowa Airport & Billy cart races Saturday 13th March: Auction and Presentations 7.30pm SHARP: Come and support the Auction and presentations on Saturday evening. We will not be organising a meal on the Saturday evening. There is bound to be a combination of items of interest. Sunday 14th March: 10.00am: KVE Inc General Meeting 6.30pm onwards: For people staying on until Monday come along to The Royal Hotel for a final dinner. There will be a specials board. Programme of events for poster.doc

We now have 101 Pre-registered participants. 65 of these people are bringing Jeeps. It is great to see that we have a few more people coming from overseas who haven't attended the event before. If there is anyone who would like details for the future events at Corowa including the dates feel free to send me an email. We always hold this event in March so if you are planning a trip to Australia over the next few years it is well worth spending some time at Corowa. The 4th Edition of the KVE News is out. If you would like to be put on my database send me an email and I can forward any updates on the event as soon as they occur. kveinc@optusnet.com.au Ben Hemmings has updated our website. It includes copies of our Newsletters and Ben has also started to add Event Reports from the past 30 years. Take a look and if you have any reports or photos please forward to me. Include the year of the event. www.corowaswim-in.org

Hi all, It is only 5 months until the 31st Annual Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa. We have just had a meeting to discuss the program of events and as there has been world wide interest I thought I should notify people associated with the HMVF. Our event commences on Monday 8th March 2010 and finishes on Sunday 14th March 2010. I have had some entry forms from people in the UK and the USA. Even though they are unable to attend with a vehicle we welcome them to our event. If there is anyone else who plans to attend and has questions or needs assistance please contact me on kveinc@optusnet.com.au Updated details will be posted on our website: corowaswim-in.org Shortly we will be producing another newsletter so if you would like be informed send me an email and I will place you on our database. Monday 8th March: Event Commences Tuesday 9th March: Visit to Bandiana Wednesday 10th March: 10am Visit to Karinya Apartments Aged Care Facility in Guy St Corowa. They will provide a sausage sizzle. Thursday 11th March: 10am Depart Corowa Airport for Maurice Wilson’s property 6pm: Corowa Shire Welcome at the Corowa RSL. Guest speaker Lang Kidby Friday 12th March: Trip to Chiltern. Saturday 13th March: 7.30am Line up for parade at Bangerang Park 9.00am sharp: parade commences and goes to the Corowa Airport. Photoshoot, 9.45am: Swap Meet at Corowa Airport run by Corowa Rotary Club 12.30pm: MLU Photo and MVCA photo 1pm: Gymkhana at Corowa Airport 7.30pm: Auction and presentations: Ball Park Caravan Park. Sunday 14th March: Farewell to people leaving the event. 10am: KVE General Meeting 7pm: Dinner at the Royal Hotel. At the moment this is the Program for the week. We will also be having Billy Cart races at some stage during the event. To be eligible to enter the Billy Cart must have some piece of a military vehicle on it. For example a Blitz seat, vehicle grill etc. The theme for 2010 is Year of the Jeep and I am anticipating that there could be over 200 Jeeps and hopefully many other vehicles. Our event in 2009 attracted 194 vehicles so we could be in for a record attendance next year. Our event always takes place in March so if you are planning to come down to Australia make sure you let us know and we will help you plan your stay. Themes for future events: 2011 Year of the British and European Vehicle 2012 Year of the 6X6 2013 Year of the Trailer and Towed Equipment Cheers Jan (Secretary of Khaki Vehicle Enthusiasts Incorporated)

In Australia planning is well under way for the 31st Annual GPA Swim-In and Ex-Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa NSW from Monday 8th March to Sunday 14th March 2010. I now have 48 pre-registered participants and this includes 29 Jeeps. I do have a couple of entrants from overseas who aren't bringing vehicles but want to be a part of this Aussie event. We should have a competition to see who can guess the correct number of Jeeps which arrive at Corowa in March next year. I am anticipating approximately 200. The website www.corowaswim-in.org has the Entry Form and you will notice we are asking for more specific information on Jeeps. They will be put into categories and John Oldenmenger has drafted a system for the parade and photo shoot he would like to use for this theme. Please send your Entry forms in ASAP and encourage other people to do the same. With numbers of total vehicles in attendance likely to exceed last years record of 194 it will take more organising. Feel free to contact us if you have any suggestions on running the event or if you would like to join KVE Inc there is a membership form on our website. In May we released the third edition of our KVE News and after our AGM in September we will be able to provide more details on the 2010 event. The next newsletter will probably go out in October so if you would like to contribute anything please email it to me. kveinc@optusnet.com.au There are many people who don't have internet access so we would appreciate if you could provide them with current details and even a copy of the newsletter. Over the past few years we have had some good media coverage. There have been stories and photos in the May 2009 Edition of Truckin Life, July 2009 edition of Jeep Action Australia and the April 2009 edition of Owner Driver.The Pathfinder magazine also has a story and photos.

A few magazine articles are now appearing on Corowa 2009 out here in Australia. The first is in a newspaper called Owner/Driver and the second is the May edition of Truckin Life. Major Paul Handel has given me a link to a website where he has posted information and photos on the 2008 and 2009 events. The link is http://anzacsteel.hobbyvista.com/Armoured%20Vehicles/corowa2009rallyph_1.htm The Swim-In website has been updated for information on the 2010 event and if you are interested in being linked to our website please let me know.

Here is a link to more photos on Corowa 2009 taken by Col Fitness of Victoria. http://centurion-mbt-two.synthasite.com/ and select page 5 and 6 Ian Williams from NSW has posted his photos on the following link: http://s571.photobucket.com/albums/ss158/Southpacific1942/

Here is the official vehicle list. Thanks to Keith Webb for correctly identifying each Blitz. We were told of 41 Blitz trucks in the parade but we have 43 entered. Perhaps 2 didn't go in the parade. Entered Vehicle list 31 Chevrolet Blitzes, 12 Ford Blitzes, 22 Landrovers, 28 Willys Jeeps, 33 Ford Jeeps, 4 Ford/Willys Jeeps, 7 GPAs, 1 LP2A Machine Gun Carrier, 1 Mortar Carrier reproduction, 5 BSA Motorcycles, 1 BSA Motorcycle & sidecar, 1 BMW R71 Replica, 1 Dodge M37, 1 1972 Bedford MJ, 1 1991Yamaha XT600motorcycle, 3 Studebaker US6, 2 White M3A1 Scout Cars, 4 Dodge Weapons Carriers, 1 1949 Skoda Staff Car, 1 1939 Chevrolet Sedan, 1 Ford Lynx Armoured Car , 1 Saracen, 1 DUKW, 1 1980 MRV Medium Recon Vehicle, 1 LARC, 1 Leyland Moke, 1 Nash 3710 Sedan, 2 GMCs, 1 1958 Toyota Weapons Carrier 1 Pontiac Utility, 1 Chevrolet Yankee Joe, 1 Kubelwagen, 1 Dodge Carryall, 1 1950 International Tractor , 1 Centurion Mk 5/1 Tank, 1 1978 CVR(T) Striker tank destroyer, 1 1972 Alvis Sabre Light tank, 1 Buffalo LVT4 Amphibian, 1 Kaiser Wrecker, 1 Mercedes Unimog, 1 Austin Champ, 1 Humvee, 1 Ford 15cwt ute, 1 Haflinger, 1 White Half Track (Israeli), 1 1953 Ford Truck, 1VW Prototype buggy, 3 WLA Harley Davidson motorcyles, 1 BSA Folding pushbike, I 1970 International ACCO, 1 1979 Inter 510A Fire truck, Official tally: 194 Also attending: 2003 Ozamphibian Platypus 1 Yak aircraft Seen in Corowa but not recorded as entrants were: Mark Sierant: 1945 Ford F60S Ambulance No2 body frame only collected during the rally 1 British Carrier on a truck that was for sale (and I believe was sold) Willys Jeep beside the site office at Ball Park Suzuki motorcycle on the back of Steve Dietman’s Truck Landrover on the back of Steve Dietman’s truck Amongst the Canadian Military Pattern vehicles (Blitzes) were: John Hedges: 1940 Chevrolet C30 Cab 11 Howard Holgate: 1941 Ford F15 1C1 GS Tony Elliott: 1941 Cab 12 F60L Dropside Tray GS Ex 2-pdr Portee Christoph Zimmerli: 1942 Ford F15 2C1 GS Julian Smith: 1942 Ford F15 cab/chassis Len Shutt: 1942 Chevrolet C8AX with Australian No 2A GS Max Hedges: 1942 Chevrolet C15 Alan Carpenter: 1942 Chevrolet C15 No2 GS Euan McDonald: 1942 Chevrolet C15A WO9 No2A Office Steve Simpson: 1942 Chevrolet C15A WO9 Office with two No2A GS bodies joined end for end Robert Farmer: 1942 Chevrolet C15A No2A GS Colin Morley: 1942 Chevrolet C15A 2C1 GS Bob McNeill: 1942 Chevrolet C15 John Stokes: 1942 Chevrolet C15A (lengthened chassis) Ex-WO 12 Wireless Signals Colin Morley: 1942 Chevrolet C15A 2C1 GS Russell Hughes: 1942 Chevrolet C15A 2C1 GS Tom Jensen: 1942 Chevrolet C15A Ashley Wilson: 1943 Chevrolet C15A WO8 No2A GS Glenn Burne: 1942 Chevrolet C15A 2C1 GS Robert Pearce: 1943 Chevrolet C15A Barry Petersen: 1944 Chevrolet C15A with Chevrolet commercial pattern cab Glenn Jorgensen: 1943 Chevrolet C15A with fabricated “HUP-type” body Bill Bates: 1943 Chevrolet C15A with fabricated “Gun Tractor-type” body Ian Styles: 1942 Ford F15A No2A GS Ashley Wilson: 1942 Chevrolet C30 Ambulance No1 Hugh Thompson: 1945 Ford F60S Ambulance No2 Col Feather: 1945 Ford F60S Ambulance No2 Army Museum Bandiana: 1945 Ford F60S Ambulance No2. Andrew McIntosh: 1944 Chevrolet C60S (fabricated camper body) Rick Cove: 1943 Chevrolet C60S (Ex WO78 No6 CGT) Ben Gruber: 1943 Chevrolet C60S Pacific Fire Tender Bob Moseley: 1942 Chevrolet C60S Half Track prototype reproduction (Ex WO78 No6 CGT) Roly Davey: 1945 Ford F60S modified as a bushfire tender Jim Oxlee: 1945 Ford F60S 400 gallon water tanker John Oldenmenger: 1942 Chevrolet C60L Dropside Tray GS Tim Langley: 1943 Chevrolet C60L Dropside Tray GS Rob Jacobs: 1943 Chevrolet C60L Dropside Tray GS Noel Patrick: 1943 Chevrolet C60L Dropside Tray GS Tim Scriven: 1942 Ford F60L 2-pdr Portee Aaron Fell: 1942 Ford F60L cab/chassis Army Museum Bandiana: 1942 F60L Workshop Mark Weltner: 1945 Chevrolet C60X Euan & Katrina McDonald: 1945 Chevrolet CGT No9 Alan Larkin: 1942 Chevrolet Amphibious Vehicles include: 7 Ford GPAs: owned by Roger Ross, Trevor Boyle, Mitch Groves, Army Museum Bandiana, Don Wilson, John Hecker & Jim Bennie 1 DUKW: owned by the Army Museum Bandiana 1 Larc: owned by the Army Museum Bandiana 1 Buffalo: owned by John Belfield 1 Ozamphibian Platypus (not military).

It was a great week with nearly 200 vehicles present. There were a number who broke down on the way to the event. Once I have done a tally of all the vehicles I will post a list on here.

We now have over 120 vehicles pre-registered for Corowa. They vary from Blitzs & Jeeps (by the dozens), Dodges, Land Rovers, a Buffalo, Kaiser Wrecker, motor cycles, Studebakers, staff cars, White Scout Cars, GPA's, a DUKW, LP4 Armoured Car, Pontiac utility, Haflinger, Mortar Carrier, Bren Gun Carriers, Alvis Sabre, White Half Track, AM General Prime Mover, CVRT Striker, Centurion Tank, Fargo, Unimog, HUMVEE, Moke, Kubelwagon and various others. I am still anticipating over 200 vehicles will be in attendance this year. Our theme next year is Year of the Jeep. It will be interesting to see if next years tally is higher than this years.

Hi all, It is now only 4 weeks until our 30th Annual GPA Swim-In and Ex-Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa, NSW, Australia. We have just released our second KVE Newsletter and you are welcome to look at it on our website www.corowaswim-in.org or send me an email with your contact details and I will add your name to my database. The following report is in the newsletter and I thought you might be interested in what goes on over in Australia. Secretaries / Public Relations Report This report contains some updated information. We are looking for articles from participants for our next newsletter which will go out in late April or May. For any contributions please send me an email kveinc@optusnet.com.au Entry Fee - $10 per vehicle I now have over 100 official vehicle entry forms and a number of entrants who are still unsure of what vehicle they are bringing to Corowa this year. I would like to encourage all participants to send in a form with a $10 entry fee as you will receive more than $10 in return. We have organised mementos and you will also receive a discount meal on the Saturday night provided by the Corowa Rotary Club. Some people are not bringing vehicles but are keen to receive the package and mementos we will be handing out. Group photo at 7.30pm Saturday 14th March of people who were at the first Corowa Swim-In in 1980: Important update on the Parade At this stage we are unsure what the status will be with Tracked Vehicles in the parade. They will probably form up in Edwards St. A driver’s briefing will be held probably on Friday for people with Tracked Vehicles. There have been some changes to the roads especially the entrance to Ball Park so we have decided to commence the Parade from Bangerang Park / Bowling Club Carpark. Due to the large number of vehicles we are expecting it would be great to have them lined up in categories such as Jeeps, Champs, motor cycles, Dodges, GMC’s, Studebakers etc. We will require a person to be the leader of each group of vehicles. The person will join the parade at the appropriate time and ensure the vehicles following line up at the Airport in the required places. Auction: Donations for the auction would be greatly appreciated. Please bring them to the Site Office at Ball Park and hand them to a KVE member. We need your support to make this a special event for our 30 year celebrations. Camping at Corowa Airport: Tabitha at the airport would really appreciate people pre-booking their powered or non-powered sites so she knows how many people are staying. Accommodation at Ball Park Caravan Park: For those requiring a powered site at Ball Park Caravan Park it is advisable to contact them ASAP. Themes for 2010, 2011, 2012: In 2010 the theme will be Year of the Jeep. The theme for 2011 will be Year of the British and European Vehicles In 2012 the theme will be Year of the 6X6. Participants attending the event in 2009 will be able to make suggestions on the theme for 2013. Ozamphibian Platypus This vehicle will be in Corowa during the week. Take a look at the information on the vehicle further in this newsletter. There will hopefully be a demonstration and talk on Thursday and possibly at other times during the event. ‘Classic Restos’ interviews and filming on Tuesday and Wednesday Mark Fletcher (otherwise known as Fletch) from Classic Restos on Channel 31 will be coming to Corowa on Tuesday 10th March and will be staying overnight to do a few interviews. His negotiated sponsors are American Autos Rare Spares & Valvoline. His company is called Itchybutt Productions On the Thursday evening the Corowa Shire Council would like to give recognition for our event especially since we have been in their town for the past 30 years and will put on a Civic Reception from 6pm at the Corowa RSL Club in Betterment Parade. At this stage the plan is for the RSL club to provide some finger food and we will buy our own drinks. Programme of events – updated information Tuesday 10th March: Visit to Bandiana Visit the Tooles Disposals Warehouse from 10.00am until 1.00pm 1.00pm: Visit The Army Museum Bandiana Wednesday 11th March: School visit. The convoy will depart Ball Park at 9.45am We are looking for a selection of vehicles to take to the Corowa Primary School at 10am. We have offered to give the children a chance to have a look at and hear some information from owners about your vehicles. There will be a list placed at the Site Office for participants to put their vehicle and name on so we get a selection of vehicles attend this event. If possible prepare a 5 minute talk on your vehicle and its use in the war. Thursday 12th March: Trip to Maurice Wilson’s property We have been invited again to Maurice Wilson’s property on the outskirts of Corowa. This would be an ideal location if the amphibious vehicles were able to do a trip down the river. The road run will depart from Corowa Airport at 10am. Feel free to pack some lunch. Demonstration and talk on the Ozamphibian Platypus. Take a look at the website www.ozamphibian.com Friday 13th March: Trip to Milawa: Friday 13th March: Talk by Major Graham Docksey at Corowa Airport Commencing now at 7.00pm instead of 5.30pm. Graham will provide participants with information on various topics including: • Practical Demonstration: with tac signs and weapons • Information on the Army History Unit Australia • Information on the Army Museum at Bandiana • Information on Graham’s Tours of Gallipoli Saturday 14th March: Parade, Swap Meet and other activities Saturday is the main day of activities commencing with a parade departing from near Bangerang Park at 9am sharp. After the parade, follow directions for parking your vehicle so we can obtain a group photo of the vehicles. The Corowa Rotary Club will be running the Swap Meet again in 2009. Please abide by their regulations and do not start selling until 9.45am, once the parade vehicles have been displayed. It will cost $5 per site and they will have lots of food available. The arena will be set up again near the airport for vehicle activities. Saturday 14th March: Dinner, Auction and Presentations Come and support the Dinner, Auction and presentations on Saturday evening. The Corowa Rotary Club will be providing a 2 course meal from 6pm. The Auction and Presentations will commence at 7.30pm. There is bound to be a combination of items of interest. Contributions to our KVE Newsletter We are after articles for our next newsletter so if you are a member or a participant and have anything you would like to contribute please forward to kveinc@optusnet.com.au This newsletter is intended to go out to members of KVE along with past, present and future participants of the Annual GPA Swim-In and ex-Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa, NSW, Australia. Let’s spread the word to people throughout Australia and the world about how great this event is! Joining KVE Inc To be apart of the organising of the Swim-In in the future you are welcome to join KVE Inc. You can download a Membership Application Form off the website or ask me for a copy. Until next time, Jan Thompson - Secretary

Hi all, We have just released the first KVE newsletter. If I have you on my database you will receive a copy via email. If you aren't on my database then take a look at the website www.corowaswim-in.org Remember to keep looking at the website for any changes and updates. The following is only a small part of the newsletter. Secretary/Public Relations Report Another year has nearly flown by. Corowa 2009 is only 3 ½ months away. It is going to be a great year with lots of celebrations. This is the 30th Year of the event and I have attended 28 of these events. I missed 1982 and 1985 so I can justifiably say I know why people keep coming back and why we don’t want to make too many changes. To be apart of this in the future you are welcome to join KVE Inc. You can download a Membership Application Form off the website or ask me for a copy. News on the Meal functions: On the Thursday evening the Corowa Council would like to give recognition for our event especially since we have been in their town for the past 30 years and will put on a Civic Reception from 6pm. At this stage the plan is for the RSL club to provide some finger food and we will by our own drinks. It won’t be a long function so please come along. On the Saturday evening we have decided to get the Corowa Rotary Club to provide a meal for participants. We are aiming to commence the official proceedings at 7.30pm sharp. The Sunday evening Carvery meal at the Corowa RSL Club is always a great night. Auction: Donations for the auction would be greatly appreciated. Please bring them to the Site Office at Ball Park and hand them to a KVE member. We have an auctioneer from town running the auction and this money goes towards our insurance and running costs of the event. Camping at Corowa Airport: Tabitha at the airport would really appreciate people pre-booking their powered or non-powered sites so she knows how many people are staying. She is considering hiring more toilets and showers but she can only do this with knowledge of numbers. She is also willing to provide meals at a very reasonable cost. The same system will apply as in March 2008. The Airport is located at Redlands Road Corowa. Contact Tabitha and Tim Hughes on 0415 704748. Accommodation at Ball Park Caravan Park: For those requiring a powered site at Ball Park Caravan Park it is advisable to contact them ASAP. Some years they have run out of powered sites and with the increased interest for 2009 I would be getting in early. Contact Sonya & Andrew Palmer on (02) 60331426 We are after articles for our next newsletter so if you are a member or a participant and have anything you would like to contribute please forward to kveinc@optusnet.com.au Entry Forms: We have started putting together rally packs and appreciate if people can send back their entry forms ASAP. Please remember to send in your entry form & entry fee prior to the end of February so we have an indication of the numbers of vehicles and people attending. We will then be able to determine how many special mementoes to order. Please ensure you complete both pages of the entry form. You will realise that the second page asks for numbers of participants to the meal functions. Site Office: Please let me know when you are able to man the Site Office. There are many new faces and it is always a good opportunity to meet people. A list of duties will be provided so that anyone can help with this task. We do require a member from KVE to be on each shift and we would like to invite other participants to help out. Themes for 2009: There are 2 themes for 2009. The primary reason the event was set up is due to the amphibious vehicles so the main theme is Year of the Amphibious Vehicle. Unfortunately there may not be as much water in the river as we would like but it will be good to see a variety of these vehicles in attendance. A member who is bringing a Buffalo has already stated that he will take it in the river no matter if there is enough water or not. In 2002 we had Year of the Blitz and it was requested a few years ago to have a Year of the Blitz 2 for all those people who were still restoring their Blitz’s. Hopefully many of those will attend in 2009. Themes for 2010, 2011, 2012: In 2010 the theme will be Year of the Jeep. The theme for 2011 will be Year of the British and European Vehicles In 2012 the theme will be Year of the 6X6. Participants attending the event in 2009 will be able to make suggestions on the theme for 2013. Wednesday 11th March: School visit We are looking for a selection of vehicles to take to the Corowa Primary School at 10am. We have offered to give the children a chance to have a look at and hear some information from owners about your vehicles. A letter went out to all primary schools in the Corowa area and we currently have had responses from the Corowa Primary School and Lowesdale Public School. The 14 children from Lowesdale will be transported to the Corowa Primary School. Thursday 12th March: Trip to Maurice Wilson’s property We have been invited again to Maurice Wilson’s property on the outskirts of Corowa. This would be an ideal location if the Amphibious vehicles were able to do a trip down the river but at this stage a lot of water will be needed to fill the river. The road run will depart from Corowa Airport at 10am. Feel free to pack some lunch. Friday 13th March: Trip to Milawa: The current agenda is as follows: • 8.00-8.30 Depart Corowa • 9.00-9.30 Arrive Milawa • 9.30 Small parade through Milawa to primary school • 10.00 Visit Milawa primary school – activities and answer children’s questions • 11.30 Cheese factory/art gallery - cheese tasting and grab a bite to eat • 12.30 Mustard shop – taste different kinds of mustards • 13.00 EV olives – taste olives and olive oils and bring a container to fill up if you want to buy some olive oil • 14.00 Brown Brothers • 15.30 Depart Milawa Saturday 14th March: Parade, Swap Meet and other activities Saturday is the main day of activities commencing with a parade departing from near Ball Park at 9am sharp. Alex McPherson will be in contact with the Corowa Council and will give us a detailed report on the Traffic Management Plan for the parade shortly. This will be put on the website. With the large number of vehicles likely to be present we may need more assistance with the line up of vehicles prior to the parade. To make things easier make sure you register in at the Site Office during the week and place your vehicle number on your front windscreen or bumper bar. This is the easiest way for us to get a vehicle list together after the event. For those arriving on the Saturday morning make sure you go directly to the line up and see me for your vehicle number. If you pay your entry fee you will receive a vehicle certificate of attendance. After the parade, follow directions for parking your vehicle so we can obtain a group photo of the vehicles. We hope to have a number of marshals assisting us with this task. If you are able to help please let me know. The Corowa Rotary Club will be running the Swap Meet again in 2009. Please abide by their regulations and do not start selling until 9.45am, once the parade vehicles have been displayed. It will cost $5 per site and they will have lots of food available. The arena will be set up again near the airport for vehicle activities. For further information on the event please feel free to give me a call on 0423 943010 or send an email to kveinc@optusnet.com.au To ensure you are kept up to date with details send me an email to get on the database. Special thanks to Ben Hemmings for putting the newsletter together. He is also in charge of our website. On behalf of the committee and members of KVE Inc I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy and prosperous New Year. This newsletter is intended to go out to members of KVE along with past, present and future participants of the Annual GPA Swim-In and ex-Military Vehicle Gathering at Corowa, NSW, Australia. Let’s spread the word to people throughout Australia and the world about how great this event is!

Hi Carman, Isn't it good to feel welcome in a new community however there are many people you already know. When I joined recently I immediately thought that it would be your scene too. There may not be too many females but with the support that we offer these guys they appreciate what females do. After being an organiser of the largest gathering of ex-military vehicles in Australia I regularly hear from people throughout the country and the world who respect and appreciate the time and effort that goes into events. These events enable people to network with other like-minded people. I am sure any comments you make on threads of this forum will be well received. Jan

Hi Paul, Can you please provide me with your contact details and I will put you on my database so when I put out a group email you will be included? I have met most of the people who attend Corowa and there are always a few I don't get to meet and you must be one of these from 2008. We will meet in 2009.