Multiple Community Displays | Busselton & Capel WA
Tuesday: 27 May
Busselton Foreshore Heritage Display: A Special Family Connection
Strategic Location and Community Support
Following a restorative day on Monday, the team relocated to the amphitheatre on Busselton’s scenic foreshore for a public heritage display. Local community members provided essential support, assisting with setup and logistics throughout the event. This volunteer assistance proved invaluable for the day’s success.
Immediate Community Interest
The display quickly attracted significant public attention, with crowds gathering to examine Bubsie and learn about its historical significance. The foreshore location proved ideal for maximising visibility and accessibility for community members and tourists.
Historic Family Connection
Among the early visitors was Guy Westwood, grandson of Nevill Westwood, creating a particularly meaningful moment for the heritage celebration. Guy’s father, Ron Westwood, had been responsible for restoring the original Bubsie vehicle now housed in the museum collection. This family connection added profound historical significance to the day’s events.
Personal Heritage Sharing
Guy brought historical photographs of the original vehicle, sharing family memories and personal experiences with the authentic Bubsie. His stories included driving the original car for special family occasions, including transporting his sister to her wedding ceremony, providing intimate glimpses into the vehicle’s role in family history.
Exceptional Community Response
The morning proved exceptionally busy, with the team distributing 100 educational books to interested visitors. The sustained interest demonstrated the community’s genuine appreciation for automotive heritage and local history.
Experiential Opportunities
Roger and Warren took advantage of a brief opportunity to drive the replica vehicle through local streets, while Guy was offered a special demonstration drive around the precinct area. These experiential elements enhanced the educational value of the display and created memorable moments for participants.
Sustained Interest
Even during the loading process, community members continued to approach the display, demonstrating the lasting impact of the heritage presentation. This continued engagement reflected the genuine community interest generated by the event.
Peaceful Conclusion
The team concluded the successful day with a picnic lunch in a quiet location outside town, providing an opportunity to reflect on the meaningful connections made and the exceptional community response to the heritage display.
Legacy Impact
The Busselton display successfully combined historical education, family heritage connections, and community engagement, creating a memorable experience that honoured both the original journey and its ongoing legacy.
Tuesday: 27 May Afternoon Program
Impromptu Stop in Capel and Arrival in Bunbury
Unplanned Stop in Capel
Although there was no organised event for Capel, Desiree made a special request to drop in, as she has a childhood friend who lives there. We parked in the Main Street, and a few people came to take a look at the car. Then, almost the entire staff from the Shire Office came out, which encouraged others to stop by as well. Roger also reached out to a contact, and the event was well-attended by about 40 people.
Hospitality from Desiree’s Friend
Desiree’s friend bought us some persimmons and a lovely cake to share, which was a kind gesture.
Onward to Bunbury
After the successful impromptu stop in Capel, we moved on to the Bunbury church, where we will be staying for the next 5 nights.
