Three Canberra-based recipients were presented with Legends Awards at the CHRA Christmas Party on Sunday, 16th December 2021 at the Capital Country Holiday Park.
ASRF ACT Divisional Director, Al Cooper nominated and presented Rob Whelan and Mark Saunders with ASRF Legends plaques. Mark Saunders then took the microphone and announced that Al Cooper, through the NSW DC for secrecy, had been awarded a plaque as well. Congratulations to these recipients and thank you all for your contributions to street rodding in the ACT.
Mark Saunders
Mark Saunders was elected to be ACT State Director in 2005 and served until 2012. Mark served as National TAC Coordinator, NTACC, from 2012 to 2014. He has also worked helping with TAC inspections, NSW D Plate Inspections, negotiating NSRG and with the ACMC and NSW Vehicle working group. Notably, Mark was Divisional Director during the 2007 and 2009 Street Rod Nationals in Goulburn. He also oversaw the Goulburn State Rod Run in 2010.
Rob Whelan
Rob Whelan, builder of the show car Silver Fox, worked as a show steward for two decades. Along with his brother John, he has been actively involved in hot rodding in the state since the 1960s through to the present. He was elected to be ACT Divisional Director in 1997, serving until 2002. He again stepped in to serve when Ian O’Brien needed to leave the ACT. Rob was also part of the NCC that penned the slogan, “It’s not just a hobby, it’s a lifestyle.”
Al Cooper
Al Cooper started the ACT TAC in 1976 and negotiated with the ACT RTA during the early years and introduction of ADRs to street rodding. An active member of the Meteors since 1970, he also partnered with Dennis Moreau in forming the CHRA (Canberra Hot Rod Association). Al was elected to be ACT Divisional Director just prior to the 2012 NCC AGM and is the current ACT Director.
