1968 O'Farrell Group-Q 'Open Wheeler' Historic Race Car

Originally constructed by Fred O'Farrell in Sydney in 1968 and loosely based on the Brabham BT18, this well executed open-wheeler used many parts sourced from the spare parts bin of Bob Brittan's Renmax outfit. After racing in Group O with a Peugeot four-cylinder engine, the car was upgraded to Group Q specification in 1972 and the motor fitted with a supercharger. The O'Farrell competed at Warwick Farm between 1968 and 1973, also running at Oran Park, Silverdale, Lakeside and Leyburn Sprints. The original Peugeot engine was subsequently replaced by an Alfa Romeo twin-cam unit and 4-speed Volkswagen transaxle, with greater potential for tuning. The O'Farrell remained in the hands of its constructor until 1980, passing to Owen Delaney, then to Bernie Leimeister in 1981 before ending up with long-term owner John Girard in 1991. Although it continued racing racing for many years, the O'Farrell survived in largely original condition and is a classic example of Aussie racing ingenuity at its best.