Alan Jones Trophy – Article after Bendigo Rally 2005

This award could well be the Academy Award of the Austin Healey club members of Australia.

It has now been 25 years since the tragic passing of a truly enthusiastic Austin Healey man, Alan Jones.

Alan was instrumental in the formation and nurturing of the NSW Austin Healey Owners Club in the late 1960's and his passion for competition was widely acknowledged. Aside from being variously President, Secretary and Editor to just plain Committee Man of the NSW AHOC , Alan was also involved in the Vintage Sports Car Club as well as the Historic Racing Register. He successfully campaigned his 3000 Mk I along with other swift steeds such as Alex Reid's Lotus Elite.

On Sunday June 2nd, 1979, after leaving the Winton Historic Motor Races, Alan succumbed to critical injuries received in a road accident north of Wangaratta.

As a fitting tribute to Alan, an annual award is presented to a Rally participant who has made a significant contribution to the continuation and growth of the Austin Healey Car Club movement in Australia.

Alan was an inspiration for all owners and his memory lives on in the enjoyment we all take from our ownership of the car and participation in our club activities.

The Alan Jones Trophy is voted on by all National Delegates and thus reflects a widespread view of the worthiness of the winners.

 
The award for 2005 has been won jointly by "Mick" and Ron Smith.                                            

 

 "Mick" and Ron have been members of the AHOC Vic for about 25 years and following retirement from their business they have made a deep commitment to our club.

"Mick" is now in her 5th year as President, overseeing a club that is in great shape and operating very professionally. She will be the first to tell you that Ron is always there to pick-up the pieces that might otherwise "fall through the cracks". He is ever the smiling barman when the clubroom doors are open for an activity involving the AHOC. It's also Ron who transports our equipment for anything from Motorkhana's to the Concours D'Elegance, at the expense of not getting to use his own Healey. These two are a team in an organisation that itself reflects teamwork in everything that is done.

Mick and Ron.....we club members congratulate you on winning this most prestigious perpetual trophy and we thank you for your commitment and work on our behalf.