Have had an electrician at our place and he saw I was interested in beetles. He said he had some of his grandfathers photos and sash from the 1957 Mobilgas round Australia trial.

Yesterday he brought them for me to see and I was able to take photos. He gave me permission to share with other veedubbers so hope you enjoy.

The grandfathers name was Col Wilkinson and he was the navigator for John Hall. They came outright third in the rally

Sash presented to Col Wilkinson

Medallion attached to sash

Col Wilkinson and car

Col Wilkinson

at the finish line

What a lucky meeting. And to think this is nearly almost 60 years ago now.

Yogie

One of the pit stops

I know it is a well-worn phrase but, they made 'em tough back then. After my own meeting with a lady who was part of an all-lady team in the trial I believe that phrase. Thanks for posting.

I think it worthwhile to share these historical things

What I love most of all in the photos is the garb they wear. Suits and high heels at the pitstop

If you haven't already, check this out

http://forums.aussieveedubbers.com/viewtopic.php?tid=104436 

Some great history there. The 1957 Mobilgas was VW's most dominant victory in the Trials. Volkswagens finished 1-2-3-4-5-6.

You can read the story of the 53-54-55 Redex Trials, the 56-57-58 Ampol Trials and the 56-57-58 Mobilgas Trials here:

http://www.clubvw.org.au/roundaustralias 

It's so cool finding that these historial events are still respected by the descendants of the people involved.
And that they want to share them with others.