I was introduced to Hot Rodding in the early 1960s whilst a paper boy. A guy on my route was building a 31 “A” Ford channelled Roadster.
I said to him one day I’m going to build my own Rod.
Want some “A” Model body panels from an “A” Tourer?
So for £10 set me on a hobby for life.
As I was only 14 years old at the time next challenge was to source a chassis which wasn’t too hard in those days.
My father had a full time Fitter working in the family Sawmill who taught me how to weld in his lunch breaks, soon I was able to build my own zedded up chassis and boxing it, I was on my way.
By 1967 – 68 I was driving my own first home built Hot Rod, aged 17.
Doug Pross, a local mate had been taking me to Romans meetings in his black model “A” Tourer.
In 1965 I became a member and am still there 60 years later, I entered the Roselands 1968 State Title H.R. show and won Top Pick-up for my efforts.
Hot Rodding has been my life ever since, in between life’s other challengers, family and work.
I’ve built 6 early “A” Models, one of which I built twice, I also dug out of storage my father’s 1939 Chrysler Royal C22 Sedan in 1995, It had been shedded for 24 years, and was the car I got my licence in, in 1966, I’m still driving it today after I rodded it, as well as my closed cab Pick up.
I joined the N.S.W Street Rod Committee around 40 years ago, which I have been Treasurer for the last 25 years plus.
Romans is still my club, proud to wear the badge, a great club.
I am now 75, my time at building is over, I’m now maintaining the two Rods I have, enjoying the sport with my wife and co builder Chris who has supported me throughout.
Receiving the Legends award is a great honour and thank you to the people out there who thought I was worthy of such an award.
Hot Rodding has gained us so many lifelong friends throughout our 60 years in the sport which we greatly appreciate.
While we can we will continue on and enjoy.
Ken Baker.
