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Following
widespread inquiries we consider it is important to set the record
straight as soon as possible in order to limit any further inconvenience
to members of clubs.
In
reference to the use of historic vehicles on the Conditional Vehicle
Registration Scheme
·
Absolutely nothing has changed!
To
further clarify this point, no offence will be committed if
· you drive your vehicle on consecutive days and the log
book is filled in
· and no more than 90 days logged for that year.
The
discussion being reported on from the June Meeting, followed a question
from a club representative as to why someone was being investigated
by Transport SA (as reported by Brian Davey at an earlier meeting).
I do not recall the exact words of the question, but I replied with
particular reference to part of the question clarifying the issue
of using a vehicle 'for work'. TSA were investigating a report of
a vehicle being used "as a daily driver " i.e. for greater
than 90 days in a year.
The
intent of my reply and my recollection of it was to state:
·
The current TSA publication "Conditional Registration of Historic
Vehicles and Prescribed Left Hand Drive Vehicles" (dated March
2002) states on Page 4 "Vehicles such as historic vehicles…..and
which are only driven on a limited number of journeys (i.e. not
for everyday use), are eligible for conditional registration. In
recognition of their limited use, no registration charge is payable."
This is nothing new and I consider this to be a statement of the
intent of the scheme.
· I also pointed out that there is nothing in the legislation
to police this 'intent' of the scheme (i.e. the legislation states
you have 90 days and your log book must be filled out.)
· I went on to say that different clubs make rules within
their own clubs and gave an example of the experience of a very
good friend of mine and how his club had chosen to interpret this
statement of intent of the scheme.
·
This person used his vehicle for 11 consecutive days (or thereabouts),
including his daily transport to work, while his modern was being
repaired. Word got back to the club in question and they threatened
to confiscate the logbook if this practice continued. My friend
is an intelligent and busy man and instantly found a solution. He
left and joined a club with different views.
· No report was made to "FHMC" or "Transport
SA" and no secret discussions held between these parties.
I have
since had advice that since no offence under the Road Traffic Act
was committed that it would not be legal for that club, in its duties
of administering a part of that act, to confiscate that logbook.
If the club feel strongly about this matter they would need to take
action within the powers of that club i.e. they would need to write
rules into their constitution and then expel the member from the
club on the basis of not complying with club rules. I do not wish
to 'stir this pot' since I am sure clubs are happy with their own
arrangements and if individual members are not, they will find another
club. I do not see it as the role of the Federation to tell clubs
how to do their business. We are there to 'Foster, promote and represent'
clubs, however if clarification of issues are required, please feel
free to contact the Federation or me personally and we will try
to help out.
On
a closing note, on Page 3 of "Conditional Registration of Historic
Vehicles and Prescribed Left Hand Drive Vehicles" it states
"I have no doubt that the Log Book system, which is unique
to South Australia, makes it easier for owners of historic vehicles
and prescribed left hand drive vehicles to take part in club events,
or just take their vehicles out for a run." If the sun is out
I have been known to jump in my open top car and drive to work.
I do this for fun and I see no problem that I happen to be doing
something useful at the same time. Usually one day is enough to
remind me that it is not nearly as much fun driving it in modern
traffic!
In
my first year as president I have found rumours, misinformation
and conspiracy theories seem to consume the greater part of my time
with Federation business. I encourage all clubs to share their views,
however if you become aware of information which you think is so
outrageous that it surely is not true, chances are that it is not.
Please take the time to check facts before passing information on.
I have always tried to make myself as available as possible to discuss
any issues with member clubs and you have my contact details on
each set of minutes.
Craig
Baulderstone
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