An Update from Patreon Funded Workshop Apprentice Aaron (Patreon)

Hello patrons,

Here is a quick update on what I have been up to since my last post.

As you may be aware, the Workshop has still been somewhat closed due to the pandemic. However, I was lucky to be able to get in for a couple of weeks to help out with the running of Tiger Day 14 in September. This included me driving the Museum’s Dingo Scout Car. I had been helping out with the Dingo's mechanical and cosmetic overhaul prior to lockdown, and can say I successfully completed the arena display without breaking down. Considering my history/curse with vehicles I get in breaking down, I have to say it was great fun getting to drive the old girl and she didn’t let me down. Having the opportunity to talk to the visitors and seeing their enthusiasm whilst watching the vehicles run was fantastic. Speaking with them is always a great learning experience for me. I love hearing their stories and knowledge of the vehicles we run and look after.

I have also been helping out in the Museum as a guide again, talking to visitors and helping them find their way around the exhibits. I am now confident in saying I can get around the Museum blindfolded! It has been good fun chatting to the visitors about the vehicles in the collection, and getting the time to properly read and learn more about the vehicles and the crews who used to fight in them is fantastic. Additionally, being able to listen to their stories as I walk round the Museum is brilliant and a side of the Museum which I rarely get to experience when working in the Workshops.

Finally I would like to update you on my Land Rover project. My new galvanised chassis has arrived and I have already gotten on to priming it. It is now ready for the top coat of black paint. All my suspension parts have also now arrived, which includes new shocks and leaf springs front and back, and a complete set of bolts. Additionally I have started striping the front diff for inspection. I must say this is a bit of a learning experience for me too!

Thanks again Patrons for all your continued support!

Aaron