SOUTH Australians with vehicles categorised under the state’s conditional registration scheme can still cruise the Limestone Coast in their pride and joy, so long as all other government-imposed regulations – including social distancing and cross-border essential travel – are met.
Lake City Rodders secretary Rod Storan sought clarification from the Australian Street Rod Federation for vehicles such as those covered under conditional registration – including historic, left-hand drive and street rod vehicles – after several Limestone Coast residents raised concerns over the legalities.
Victorian regulations had become a source of confusion for some Limestone Coast residents, with their interstate counterparts only permitted to drive their vehicles if in connection with obtaining food and supplies, medical care and care giving, exercise and work or education.
Speaking about the current restrictions in South Australia, Mr Storan said drivers could use their vehicles so long as they complied with logbook requirements, which can vary from club to club.
While encouraging residents to limit their driving around the region, Mr Storan said the odd cruise was good for both cars and their drivers.
“I think it is still okay to go for a drive to Port MacDonnell and have a look at the sea and drive back home, as long as you are not congregating with people and following COVID-19 restrictions,” he said.
“It is always good to go a drive, you have to get cars out of the shed and keep them used, reasonably regularly.
“It can be a form of therapy for people, to get some fresh air and possibly get their mind off the world’s troubles for a while.”
While border restrictions remain in place, Mr Storan said conditionally registered vehicles could legally travel interstate, but he discouraged drivers from doing so.
“You obviously have the problem of quarantine restrictions coming back to South Australia when coming back,” he said.
“I would think it would be best to travel only in South Australia and do not cross the border unless you have to.”
With many people currently housebound, Mr Storan said some had finally found time to work on backyard projects, including vehicle modifications and restorations.
“Whether it be little maintenance jobs or whether they might be building cars they have put off for a while,” he said.
“There is a lot of progress going on and people are taking the opportunity to work on their projects.
“Even though I have not made any progress myself, there is a car which I might get started on.”
OWN A UNIQUE VEHICLE?
The Border Watch Newsgroup highlights the region’s unique vehicles weekly as part of its CarSmart feature, published each Tuesday.
Whether it be a showroom-quality restoration, a rare sight on the region’s roads or a heavily modified masterpiece, we want to share your pride and joy with our readers.
Email molly@tbw.com.au for more information on how to become involved.
