Mayor Unveils Melville Racing Tribute

The plaque, sponsored by the City of Melville, will be unveiled by Mayor Russell Aubrey at a ceremony on Sunday, 11 November 2007 in Duncraig Street, Applecross.

The Patriotic Grand Prix, held through the streets of Applecross, was the only road race for motor cars ever conducted on the streets of Perth in that era. More than 50,000 spectators cheered winner Harley Hammond over 25 laps and a total race distance of 62.5 miles.

Mayor Russell Aubrey said the ceremony was expected to draw a gathering of car enthusiasts to celebrate the occasion. “The 1940 Patriotic Grand Prix is an important part of the City of Melville’s history,” he said. “The plaque commemorates the historical significance of the event and its benefits to the community during the war time.”

In November 2006, the VCSS re-enacted the race to celebrate their 20^th anniversary. The event titled The Applecross Grand Prix Lives On proved to be an outstanding success within the community and was watched by many.

VSCC President Ed Farrar said the VSCC prided itself on its motor sport history. “The 1940 Patriotic Grand Prix was a significant event as it was a fundraising effort for World War II,” he said. “It was also the last motor racing event in the British Empire before the end of the war.”

For more information about the 1940 Patriotic Grand Prix unveiling ceremony, contact VSCC Vice-President Lou Symes on 0412 417 223 or email  vicepresident@vsccwa.com.au.