A wonderful turnout of interested people were at the official departure from Cranbourne Bunnings Store and many photos were taken in, on and around 'Tail End Charlie'.

A special visitor was Jo Fairbairn from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

 

There was a lot of interest in merchandise and donation tins were a rattling. 

 

All the group looked very smart in their blue overalls, donated by King Gee Workwear and their Steel Blue Boots.

 

Memories of the original 'Tail End Charlie's participation in the 1957 rally were relived by some visitors such as the photographer from that time and the former owner of the current replica , Lester Trevaskis.  Also present was Keith Boyd, son of Arthur Boyd, one of the 1957 team.  Another interested visitor was Fred Townsing who produced an original certificate of participation in the 1957 Mobilgas Round Australia Rally.

 

The tractor made quite a spectacle as it travelled the freeway and crossed the Westgate Bridge at 100 kilometres per hour!

 

A good trip to Mortlake and arrived early enough to set up a merchandise table for quite a few locals who turned up to see Tail End Charlie and have a chat. 

 

It was a fantantic first day of fundraising with a lot of interest shown by those who visited.  Mortlake Caravan Park was a delightful stop-over and the caretaker, Eddie, was very helpful.  The 'boys' were able to light a campfire and chat about the first day's excitement.