Car trials capture the attention of enthusiasts and the public
In the years following the Second World War, motoring became much more popular as people’s prosperity improved and local car manufacturing expanded. Petrol rationing persisted until 1950 but by 1947, motor sport had started to flourish again. With the democratisation of motoring and reduced costs of participation, car trials became ever more popular with motoring enthusiasts. Various long standing motoring clubs were soon running several trials each year.
These were mostly day time navigational and reliability trials, sometimes including some speed tests or other sub-events along the way. There was a strong social element with Sunday picnic lunches common. Attire was mostly collar and tie and a tweed jacket. Media reports of events tended to mention the names of all the control officials!
By the start of the 1950s not only were there more challenging events developing but new car clubs were emerging. Motor sport was thriving and rallying in particular was increasingly popular, in part because of the low cost of participation.
In 1953 CAMS was established under the guidance of Donald Kingsley Thomson, or DKT, and, as the official national body associated with the FIA, took over the administration of motor sport in Australia, including trials and rallies. DKT instilled a deep philosophy of sportsmanship and camaraderie in all motor sport, but particularly in rallying. In the years that followed, numerous car clubs were established and became affiliated with CAMS, many conducting regular trials.
The three REDeX “Round Australia” trials were conducted in 1953, 1954 and 1955 and elevated car trials to legend status in the eyes of the public. These were followed by three Mobilgas Round Australia Trials in 1956, 1957 and 1958 and the long distance Ampol Trials also in 1956, 1957 and 1958 (the first two were not CAMS sanctioned and resulted in much conflict within the sport over the role of CAMS).
Many vehicles of the era were large and cumbersome, although MGs were very popular in the early years. By the end of the 1950s the VW Beetle had emerged as a relatively cheap vehicle of choice for rallies.