When the name Garry Hudson is mentioned in rodding circles in
Australia – his name recognition is such that you could nominate the
man in any number of scenarios.
For me, reading Rodding Magazines at High School – Garry Hudson
was named among other regulars (Legend) Kevin Griffiths, (the late)
Alby Wheeler and (Legend) Rob Millburn – each time featuring his
1923 Ford Pick Up.
Others would have met Garry at the car shows in New South Wales
in the 70’s and 80’s where he could be seen turning out custom
wooden signs in front of the soon to be owner. Often, he shared
space with his brother Jim (RIP). Jim made custom made buttons and
was the owner of a very neat 1932 Sports Coupe.
Garry has been a member of the Bent 8’s, the Drag-ens before
settling in at Macquarie Towns Hot Rod Club where he was a
founding member. Around 2000 Garry was awarded with Life
Membership of Macquarie Towns HRC.
Garry has been and is still supported by wife Lyn, and other family
members. The sign business changed from side hustle to full time
employment in time too, with Garry moving from the Tyre and
Mechanical businesses into full time self-employment.
Others may have seen him in his various roles in the ASRF – Show
Judge, State Director and Committee member for 3 Street Rod
Nationals. The aforementioned T Pick Up put Garry as one of the few
rodders who drove the T Pick Up to nearly all the Nationals – along
with the late Andy Morris from Tasmania or the late Leo Spessot
from Victoria. Or you met him (and wife Lyn) at various rodding
activities held in Australia. In addition, Garry, with another Legend
Graham Robinson represented the rodders of NSW with the RMS in
making sure that our full rego complied with the changes in the law.
Not only is this the Garry Hudson well known and highly respected
in rodding circles, but he also (and Lyn) is the same in the
Hawkesbury community – be it serving for the local Agricultural
Show, or the local Cubs and Scouts.
In his time with Street Rodding in New South Wales, Garry has also
built and driven a few nice rides – including his 1935 Tudor in hi-viz
orange, his light blu1936 Ford Ute, and for a while a black 1935 Ford
Coupe. As with the T pick up, the progress of this build was covered
in Australian Hot Rodding Review (forerunner of Street Machine
Magazine) – Garry and Lyn have supported a lot of events – local,
regional, and interstate events – and for every event – he drove.
The one underlying quality that (for me) that shines through is
Garry’s volunteering his generosity with his time, knowledge, and
enthusiasm to anyone who either needs it or asks for it. In any of
the examples mentioned above Garry is truly deserving of Legend
status. Former NSW Director Dave Clift recognised this and took delight in
presenting Garry with his award.
