A strong performance in Division 2 saw the pair finish 30 points clear of 2nd place, which was a three way tie. Morris and Morris were driving an LA Lancer which had been loaned to them for the event by David Allwright.
David Allwright and Dale Wiggins (Mazda RX2) finished second behind the Morris’s, they shared second place with Graeme Kershaw and John Tonks (Mercedes) and Husband and Wife team of Geoff and Sue Rainbow (Subaru Forester).
The trophy for first novice in the event was shared between the Hobart team of Brad Gunn and Fiona Mackie and Launceston’s Adrian Burns and Renaye Quill in their head turning Nissan Patrol Superleggera Monster Truck. For Burns and Quill, who are regular competitors in 4WD trials, this was their first rally navigation event.
The event was organised by the 500 Car Club of Tasmania, and formed the 3rd round of their navigation series. A 300km course saw crews run through the Saddleback, Scamander and Mt Nicholas forests of North Eastern Tasmania. As well a being a navigational challenge the event was also designed as a challenge for drivers with road conditions varying from slippery, muddy tracks to open flowing forest roads.
For many crews the highlight of the event was a 50km section comprised of 3 original route charts from the 1989 St Helens Rally, this blast from the past made crews stitch together the 3 route charts which abruptly ended about 2 km from the control, many WD’s followed as crews found their way to the control by whatever means they could.
The organisers would also like to acknowledge the support received from Moonah Auto Salvage and Signworks. Moonah Auto Salvage were sponsors of the original St Helens Rallies in the late 1980’s and have been regular supporters of club rallying for many years.
Signworks, owned by trial winner Andrew Morris, have done a fantastic job refreshing the clubs stock of information and control boards, and providing trophies for the event. Without this type of grassroots support these events would be difficult to run.
For information about future 500 Car Club Events go to www.tasrally.com.au
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