It may have been built on a tiny budget, but Ross Foster’s 1929 Ford Model A hot rod looks fine, and runs like a dream.

Once upon a time, 25 years ago, in a place full of wonder called Gippsland, there was a collection of old, unused car parts that nobody thought they needed anymore.

But there was also a car lover, Ross Foster, and he looked at that collection of rusty parts and saw what it had the potential to be. And then, he created magic with it.

After a five-year build, and 20 years on the road, you can now see Mr Foster’s striking 1929 Ford Model A at Maffra’s Gippsland Vehicle Collection, as part of its new Rod and Custom exhibition.

“It started out as a collection of assorted rusty parts, most of which had been discarded by restorers I knew,” Mr Foster said.

“It finally got repaired and fitted together – no two panels come from the same car.”

The completely home-built hotrod was issued with its engineering certification and registration in February 2000, a very proud moment for Mr Foster.

“It has a Chev 283 and a four-speed gearbox and is well used. The body is steel with fibreglass guards,” he said.

“The upholstery is reworked Holden seatcovers, which cost $40. The paint was done at home in the garage, as was the wiring to get it running.

“The car was a budget hotrod, it only cost me $7000, including registration.”

Mr Foster added, with justified pride, that after many trouble-free kilometres, the hot rod hadn’t required any mechanical or physical touch-ups since it was finished.

To see the impressive results of Mr Foster’s magic touch, visit us at the Gippsland Vehicle Collection anytime between now and the end of October to see our Rod and Custom Cars and Bikes exhibition. Our Rod and Custom Display Day, which will officially launch the exhibition, is on this Sunday, 11 July, from 9am, and all comers are welcome to display their own special vehicles, any make or model, in the grounds on the day.

But with the GVC currently open every day for the school holidays, you have a great chance to get a sneak peek, and get the kids or grandkids out for a fun day in the shed. There is plenty to keep all generations entertained for hours.

Entry costs $15 per adult, $10 concession and children 15 and under are admitted free of charge. The Museum is open 10am to 4pm daily in the school holidays and 10am to 4pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday at all other times.

On Sunday, 11 July, admission to the grounds will cost a gold coin donation to the chosen charity for the day, and entry to the Museum will be at a discounted rate of $10 for all adults. See you soon!