VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS

Researched by Gordon Freegard
Revised and Updated with new info from John Parker June 2024

The disadvantages of isolation receded considerably with the general introduction of motor vehicles about the mid 1920's. Amongst the first on the scene was the mass produced "T" Ford. Secondhand vehicles, Fords, Overlands and Dodges were acquired by a few settlers. A new, moderately prestigious Oakland Tourer cost 435 pounds ($870) in 1924. All cars were imported and had soft hoods, most of which could be folded back. Sedan cars had not been developed and were not available until about 10 years later. The first car with an Australian body, in that period, was the Essex. It became available at approximately 220 pounds ($440) equivalent to slightly more than the annual wage of an orchard hand.

Prominent cars in that decade were in the expensive range - Studebaker, Hupmobile, Buick, Dodge (a rugged car favoured by farmers), Hudson and Chrysler from the U.S.A., and Sunbeam, Crossley, Austin and Bentley from England. Fiats from Italy were also in demand. Then, the best selling cars in the less expensive range were the Model "A" Ford and Overland. Subsequently the Chevrolet, in the same price bracket, probably became the best seller in the later 1920's and early 1930's. Many growers bought utilities or trucks (Reo, Chevrolet, International and Fiat, Etc.) with one of the main objects being to sell their produce at the then well patronised open markets on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings.

The starting of motor vehicles was often a problem, particularly in cold weather. The earlier cars did not have a battery as ignition was provided by a magneto. They were started by cranking which was often laborious. The Model "T" Ford was notorious for backfiring. Bruised wrists or forearms were not uncommon, or an occasional fracture. Battery operated vehicles periodically had battery problems and were often "flat". Starting was then achieved by pushing (if enough people were available) and when sufficient speed was gathered, the gears were engaged. An instant start was often achieved providing there was no other mechanical fault. Two other methods were used by the author, a horse and chain attached to the front of the car to gather momentum. Two persons required. The driver needed to be alert so that the horse did not take fright before the chain was disconnected. Another sure way of ensuring a quick start, even with a flat battery (which usually had enough capacity for the initial spark) was to replace the radiator with hot water, which was usually available at the local hall as a fire was used to heat water for supper.

The first Chevrolet trucks had an "economy" model without a driver's cab and normal seating. The driver sat on the floor of the truck without any protection whatsoever. One owner improvised by nailing in position, part of a dump fruit box, in which he sat. This gave him a degree of stability. This vehicle did not travel in the metropolitan area.

Many youths purchased motor cycles, the most popular being B.S.A., Douglas and Triumph from England and the heavier Harley-Davidson and Indian from the U.S.A. Japan had not commenced motor vehicle manufacturing. A few of the more affluent young men invested in a Roadster (single seated car). The Superintendant of Horticulture travelled per medium of motor bicycle and side car and graduated to a Chevrolet (privately owned).

A few tractors were purchased for orchard work. The Fordson was the best known. One of this make was used at Illawarra about 1926/27 but was a disappointment. It was temperamental in"starting" by cranking and use of a magneto; the iron lugged wheels slipped under wet conditions. Horses were not entirely superseded until the 1950's.

GNOWANGERUP VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS