The Victorian Outboard Club Inc. is a prestigious powerboat race club in Melbourne, Australia. Established in 1954, it is one of the oldest and most respected clubs of its kind in the country.
The club's origins can be traced back to the early 1950s when Stan Mudford and Ray Dowling began racing with local speed boat club members in Echuca. They then turned their attention to finding like-minded individuals closer to home in the Preston Northcote area. Through word of mouth, they were able to gather a group of people who shared their passion for powerboat racing and had boats with very old outboard motors.
Another group of enthusiasts, including Kelvin Hosking, Earl Krieger, and Joe Cameron, were also racing their small boats in the flood-prone water seepage ponds at the sandpits in Armstrong Rd. Seaford. These enthusiasts were eager to find more people with similar interests and join forces.
It is important to note that during this time, most available outboard motors were pre-war models from the 1930s. Some were ex-Army motors, designated as POLR models, which were produced in Canada between 1943 and 1945 for the war effort. These motors were not originally built for racing purposes but were converted by Stan Mudford for racing runabout use.
The club faced challenges due to import restrictions in the early 1950s, which made it difficult to obtain outboard motors. However, from 1954 onwards, resourceful members were able to find ways around these restrictions and import motors such as the Johnson 25 hp and the Mercury 4 cylinder Mk40. The popular 4 cylinder Mercury Mk55 models from 1956 onwards were also eagerly sought out by club members.
The Victorian Outboard Club Inc. continues to thrive and attract powerboat racing enthusiasts from Melbourne and beyond. With a rich history spanning over six decades, the club prides itself on its heritage and tradition. It provides a platform for members to showcase their skills, compete against each other, and celebrate the sport of powerboat racing.
Whether you are a seasoned racer or a newcomer with a passion for powerboats, the Victorian Outboard Club Inc. welcomes all enthusiasts who are interested in joining the club, participating in races, or simply supporting the sport. Connect with the club on social media platforms and stay updated with the latest news, events, and results.
Become a member and gain access to exclusive benefits, such as newsletters and promotions. By creating an account, you can personalise your profile, access your race history, and explore any private pages you've been granted access to.
For further information, get in touch with the club through the provided contact details. The Victorian Outboard Club Inc. looks forward to welcoming you to the exciting world of powerboat racing and sharing the joy and thrill of this exhilarating sport.