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The Z Car Club of Sydney was born in November 1989, the "midwife"
being Joe Grupe. Joe's inspiration came from the Hunter Valley Z Car Club, which had been
active for some three years prior. Joe's engaging personality and enthusiasm drove the
Club forward so that by the time of the inaugural Z National Meeting, hosted by the Z Car
Club of Queensland at Easter 1990, there was a significant presence from the Sydney's Club.
From there a steady upward climb ensued, whetted by our experience at Brisbane's Lakeside
Motor Racing track at the afore mentioned event, some of the members (actively encouraged
by Joe, who had an extensive motor sport background) started to take part in club motor
sport. Eventually the Hunter Valley Z Car Club amalgamated with their Sydney sibling in late 1991.
Our first Concours was held outside the exhibition buildings at Darling Harbour in June 1991,
and this exposure set the club on pattern of growth which culminated in the hosting of the
second Z National Meeting. Our special guest was Ben Millspaugh from USA, author of a definitive
book on Z cars at the time.
Steady development followed; Z teams completed in Alfa Romeo six hour relay races at Eastern
Creek, as well as taking part in Supersprints and Marque Sport car racing. Social events such
as Club Runs and Observation Trials were also introduced, and to this day still attract high
popularity within the club. Gratifyingly, these traditions have always been upheld, to the
point when we the Z Car Club of Sydney was hosting its third Z National Meeting in 2005.
The Club has carried on to this day sharing the knowledge gained about Z and ZX cars and
fostering some great friendships amongst members with a common interest. Though more than
35 years have passed since the birth of the Z car parts are still readily available, and
the all independent suspension and well designed overhead camshaft engines have given the
Z a level of performance and handling which is equal to or better than the bulk of modern cars.
Because of the Z's sound design the cars have competed in all areas of motor sport. A number
of members have modified or improved their cars for occasional motor sport participation. They
will be happy to pass on their knowledge and assist any new members to try their hand at
Hillclimbs, Supersprints and Motorkhanas. The club supports a range of Motorsport and Social
events including Dyno nights, Fun runs, Observation rally's, Driver training days, Classic
Rally's, Supersprints and Hillclimbs and has occasional guest speakers at monthly meetings.
If you were thinking of buying a sports car, then join the Z Car Club of Sydney, get some
information and guidance, and buy a Z.
CONTACT : mail@zcarclub.com.au
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Z Car
Club Of Sydney
