Mokin across the Bellarine Peninsula

Graeme Deller with his red 1980 Moke. (Ivan Kemp) 465626_01

A ‘cheerful little car’ event will roll through Geelong and Queenscliff this weekend to celebrate the history of Mokes.

Moke Owners Association of Victoria will host Mokin’ Vic25 on the Bellarine Peninsula from Friday March 21 to Monday March 24, featuring meet-ups, a Show and Shine, and driving trips across the region.

Organising committee member Graeme Deller said up to 150 cars would be displayed during the free Show and Shine event on March 22 from 9am to 1pm at Queenscliff’s Lower Princess Park.

Mr Deller has owned his 1980 red Moke for close to eight years and said there would be something for everyone over the weekend.

“They’re a cheerful little car to drive and they’re just fun… You get the feeling that you’re on the open road, it’s like a motorbike on four wheels in a way,” he said.

“They’re known for being around the beach, townships and everything like that. Originally, they were designed for the military but never took off as they didn’t have ground clearance.

“When I was a young fellow, we were driving back from Portarlington with my father and we saw this Moke sitting in the paddock for sale, but I was too young to get my licence at that stage.

“I’ve always wanted one ever since and the time came along when the children left home and I’ve needed a passion, so I got one that was partially done up and finished it off.”

Visit moke.org.au/mokin-vic-25#events for more information and full event details.

Jena Carr