Restoration of the Citroën 5CV
Getting our own Bubsie Car
We faced a delightful challenge for our ‘Right Around Australia’ trip – acquiring a vehicle akin to the original 1923 Citroën 5CV showcased in the National Museum of Australia halls. We finally found a car enthusiast, Paul Smythe, who sold us his Citroën. However, having long rested in disuse, this car gem yearned for some tender care and restoration.
The skilled mechanic George Vella embarked on a mission to breathe new life into this automotive marvel, commencing his task by attending to the main bodywork and going into the car’s interiors.
We are talking about the carburettor, for example. Time had left its mark, leaving the carburettor choked with grime and debris, causing its performance to falter like a sputtering engine. He delicately disassembled the carburettor, replacing the worn-out needle and seat, cleansing the clogged jets, and even conjuring gaskets from the depths of obscurity. Such a task required unwavering attention to detail and hands as steady as a master craftsman’s.
Yet, the car’s trials were not limited to the carburettor alone. The fuel tank, weathered by time, bore the burden of rust, necessitating a complete overhaul. However, this endeavour proved challenging. He had to navigate a labyrinth of obstacles, maneuvering the new tank into its rightful place, all while gingerly removing the steering column – a performance demanding precision and patience.
Next in line was replacing the fuel filter, a small yet indispensable component. This rarely mentioned part diligently keeps the fuel system immaculate, shielding it from the clutches of debris and ensuring the engine purrs seamlessly.
The grand finale of this symphony of restoration was the exhaust system. Time had rendered the original exhaust a testament to corrosion, transforming the car’s gentle hum into a boisterous serenade akin to a vintage tractor. With careful expertise, the mechanic artfully installed a pristine new system.
The repair process is an ongoing task. In between repairs, we’ll present the car at different locations. For more information on where you can see the car next, scroll down to the preparation events part.
Preparation of the 2025 Journey
In preparation for the “Right Around Australia” trip in 2025, our dedicated team has been hard at work ensuring every detail is meticulously planned. Remember, the trip aims to showcase a remarkable story embodying friendship and dedication.
The preparation involved:
- Conducting thorough research on potential routes
- Identifying key locations for missionary outreach
- Ensuring necessary permits and logistics were in place
Our manager acquired a sturdy trailer to transport the vehicle safely and efficiently and to ensure the secure loading and unloading of the car, sparing no effort to guarantee its protection throughout the journey.
With the groundwork laid, we shifted our focus to organizing events to present the car and our mission to the public. From bustling city centres to remote towns, we carefully select locations that maximize visibility and attract a broad audience.
Beyond showcasing the remarkable vehicle, the team also tries to raise awareness of the planned trip. We aim to generate excitement and anticipation for the upcoming journey through strategic marketing campaigns, social media engagement, and collaborations with local communities.
As the “Right Around Australia” trip countdown continues, we remain committed to the mission and the retracing of Nevill Westwood’s footsteps.
Get to know the Vehicle right now
Can’t wait until 2025? When no restoration work happens, you can find us and the vehicle already on promotion tour. Here is an overview where we have been already:
April 2023: Bubsie Car Draws Enthusiastic Crowds at Camp Meetings
The TIJ Bubsie, the vehicle which will embark on a trip around Australia in 2025, was presented at three Camp Meetings in Victoria and New South Wales these past weeks. Gary, the host of our ministry “The Incredible Journey,” was on hand to promote the planned trip.
The Citroen was presented to enthusiastic crowds at the Victoria Camp Meetings. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and we are thrilled to see the excitement and interest that this unique vehicle has generated.
At The Incredible Journey, we plan to use this vehicle as a tool for evangelism, and the trip around Australia in 2025 will provide us with a powerful platform to share our message. We were pleased to have the opportunity at these camp meetings to share more information about our ministry and upcoming events, including our Partnership Weekend at the end of May 2023.
As we continue to work towards the goal of travelling “Right Around Australia”, we are reminded of the challenges that must be overcome to make this dream a reality.
The roads that the navigation system sent our driver, Greg, down were only sometimes ideal for a vehicle of this size. Still, he persevered and ultimately arrived safely at each destination. But it was a good test for what we will face in 2025.
Despite these challenges, we remain committed to our mission and the opportunity afforded by the vehicle and the 100-year commemoration to inspire hope and faith in all who encounter it. With the support of generous donors, we are confident that we can bring this unique vehicle and its message to communities across the country.
Due to being transported over unpaved roads, the car had become quite dirty. One young man was so taken with the Bubsie that he volunteered to give it a wash while it was presented at NNSW big camp. This act of kindness highlights the excitement and interest that the vehicle has generated among those who have seen it. It demonstrates the volunteer spirit TIJ hopes to inspire to make Right Around Australia a nationally impactful event for saving souls, offering ample opportunity for volunteer contribution.
We invite you to join us in supporting this important project, and to help us make the commemorative trip a reality. With your help, we can continue to spread our message of faith and love throughout Australia – and eventually the world!
Restoration Update December 2023
Dear Vintage Car Enthusiasts and Journeyers,
We are thrilled to share an exciting update with you about the incredible journey planned for 2025! Our vintage vehicle, Bubsie, will circumnavigate Australia and is undergoing extensive restoration. This iconic vehicle is not just an automobile but a monument of the engineering prowess of more than a century ago.
Restoration in Full Swing
Our team of skilled craftsmen and technicians has been hard at work refurbishing every aspect of the vehicle. No effort has been spared in the meticulous restoration of the engine, the bodywork and the interior to ensure every component is in perfect working order.
A full Itinerary
The team at The Incredible Journey is planning a comprehensive travel itinerary, securing frequent stops for the journey to maximise participation opportunities for those positioned along the route.
A Ride Through History
Imagine the joy of sitting in a beautifully restored vintage car, feeling the nostalgia of a bygone era. Calling all families, adults and children, everyone will have the opportunity to not only marvel at these historical gems but also take a photo alongside it at one of the many stops along the journey and create lasting memories.
Join Us on the Journey
Join Us on the JourneyStay tuned as we provide regular updates on the progress of the restoration process. Witness the transformation of Bubsie. Follow our journey on social media and our website to get a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes efforts and be the first to know about the additional stops added to the 2025 Right Around Australia journey!
Get Involved
We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary adventure. We shall soon publish the itinerary, which will indicate the dates and destinations so you can mark your calendar for 2025 accordingly! Whether you’re a vintage car enthusiast, a history buff, or a family looking for an opportunity to witness and participate in the celebration of this memorable event – don’t miss it!
As we prepare to embark on this incredible journey, we can’t wait to share the joy, history, and faith with all of you.
Let the countdown to 2025 begin!
