3rd Zephyr & Zodiac International Convention

... the 3rd International Convention for Zephyr & Zodiac owners was a treat for fans of this somewhat forgotten British Ford icon.

While the MG's (see last issue) were having their public display on Easter Saturday at Geelong's Rippleside Park, close to 100 vehicles, covering the whole range of Zephyr/Zodiac production, converged on Steampacket Gardens on the Geelong foreshore for their public show 'n' shine. Just as most models and body styles of Zephyr were represented, so to was just about every State in Australia, with some cars travelling from as far away as Western Australia & Queensland for the Convention.

Despite some heavily overcast conditions on the morning of the display, the rain held off, enabling everyone to get a closer look at a wide variety of these underappreciated vehicles. A highlight was the collection of early Mk I Zephyrs, including an unrestored example in remarkably good condition. A huge swag of Mk II and Mk III Zephyrs and Zodiacs made up the bulk of the display, with some rare Mk IV examples and a pair of Granadas (that were never officially marketed here in Australia) also attracting attention.

John Bowe was in attendance, at the invitation of event supporter, Rare Spares. Ever the racer , Bowe was casting an interested eye over some of the performance-modified Mk III examples! Following the Steampacket Gardens display, the assembled Zephyrs & Zodiacs headed off in convoy for Queenscliff, followed on the Easter Sunday by a similar run to Lorne. Convention Chairman, David Rayner, reported that this year's convention, which also marked the 35th Anniversary of the Zephyr & Zodiac Owners Club of Melbourne, was a resounding success, with positive feedback across the board.

Source: JUST CARS, July 2009, Collectors Issue #161