Introducing the current Commodore of the Victorian Speed Boat Club,

Mr Gregg Godsell

Above: Commodore Gregg Godsell at the Victorian Speed Boat Club

Note: In brief, The Commodore sets the overall annual committee agenda (consistent with the views of members), helps the committee prioritise its goals and then keeps the committee on track by working within that overall framework.

Greg Godsell took over as The Commodore of the Victorian Speed Boat Club in July 2023 from the previous Commodore, Mr Ray Palmer who had been at the helm of the VSBC for the previous 4 years. 

In Greggs words “Ray had set up the position very well for me to take over and continue in the great work he had been doing for the past years”.

Gregg Godsell’s BIO

• Born      09/03/1959
• Place of Birth Melbourne 
• I was born and bred in Essendon
• Grew up supporting the bombers 
• Played local football in the Essendon District Football League for Aberfeldie FC 
• Went to Aberfeldie Primary School
• Then on to Essendon High 
• Finished HSC Form 6 
• Not interested in much else at that stage
• Became a carpenter thru my father being partners in a timber yard in Niddrie 
• Worked for BGA builders, RJ Hille Builders

Eventually, I became a registered Builder and worked for the next 30 years, building many extensions renovations bathrooms and kitchens. 

I grew up in Ogilvie St where a neighbour at the time was Chris Burns who was involved with the VSBC racing in the 253/4.2 litre class as it was. 

Chris invited my father and myself up to the club one weekend in about 2000 and the following year I joined the club.

John Ruth had the van opposite The Burns van, so I rang John and did a deal and that was the start of my time at the VSBC.

As kids growing up my brother Ivor and myself always had an affiliation with boats and water.

Our father skied competition with the VWSA and we spent many years travelling with friends and families from Geelong to Boort to Deniliquin and all the places’ tournaments were held.

As we grew, we went and did lots of other boating and water sports so the opportunity to become involved with the club was easy.

I spent the first few years trying to get involved and met some of my now closest friends.

The Patterson’s have become very special people in my life even now they are like family to me. 

I developed a special interest in the fire boat which at the time was light blue a Coventry climax engine ran the fire pump which was exceptionally overpowered but certainly did the job.

So in 2006 with Keith Moffat and Max Bullen we rebuilt and renovated the fire boat into the slick unit as it was. 

I spent the next 8-10 years towing it to other venues all over Victoria as we had no water and no racing at Eppalock due to the drought. 

These photos were taken just after we had done it up and the one on the water was its maiden voyage at Melton after the fit out . 

Myself and Greg Ballem were the crew for that day

Many laughs with many good people had me developing long term friendships with some of the best racing witnessed during many years.

Lots of good and some not so pleasant memories from those days. 

I then operated the Race tower for many years and learnt what racing was really about.

My involvement in racing these days is crew member of Moonshine Racing  my brother Ivor owns the boat and my nephew Mike drives the boat and that combination of boat and driver has proved very successful with many wins the most recent being the, 

***** 2023 Aust 105 mph Championship Title *****

It’s very enjoyable to be part of a team most of which is family !

I became Commodore for the first time in 2015 and lasted till 2017 that time. 

With help from a very good bunch of people on the committee I have taken on the role again to help the club remain a power in the boat racing community.

I have met and worked with so many good people over the years and it’s satisfying to look back and say “yeah I did that “ 

I look forward to a few more years with the club and really can’t see myself going anywhere very soon.

I’m now living in Bendigo.

I have endured two flood events to my van in recent years and can say I have seen the best and worst of the conditions when it was empty at 5% to when it was at its fullest at 134%. 

So, I’m not too worried about much anymore …….

I have 2 grown kids Katie and Tom who now have kids of their own.

 I get a huge thrill when they are about and they  love the lake here at Eppalock as much as I do.

Sunset over Lake Eppalock

Historical Photos below showing the 2011 floods with the Race Tower under water and the 2014 Griffith Cup meeting hosted by the VSBC at Lake Eppalock with VIP and Camping areas

Ode to Ray Palmer

Ray can now settle into his role as Rear Commodore and enjoy his retirement from full time work and I’m sure he and wife Joanne will be a bit more relaxed rather than worry too much about the day to day running of the club.

On behalf of all the members of the VSBC thanks for your time, Ray you did a great job!

Regards 

Gregg Godsell

Story by: Gregg Godsell

Published by: Paula Gill (GillGirlPublishing/GILFLITE)

Welcome to the 5^th annual Bar-Cycle Originals Ol’ Skool Ski Boat Run.

17th & 18th February 2024

SA Ol’ Skool Ski Boat Social Club
Proudly Presents the
Bar-Cycle Originals SA Ol’ Skool Ski Boat Run
Renmark to Woolshed Brewery

“Meet n Greet” Dinner Friday night @ 6:30 pm Paringa Hotel Bistro. 

Briefing at Arthur Shepard Memorial Park 9:45am Sat 17^th Feb.

Boats leave the Renmark Riverfront Precinct 11am for Woolshed Brewery.

There will be a Show N Shine judged throughout the day and some fun 

classes including best themed or dressed up, Loudest boat etc.

We would love to see some locals register to come on the run or come 

down to the Renmark Riverfront to see all the boats leave.

Last Run prior to the floods in 2022 we had 72 Ol’ Skool Boats make the trip up to the Woolshed.

Please follow our face book pages for all the info including registration & Itinerary (details below). We will be holding our giant raffle again and would love to see some locals catch up with us to get a ticket or if you would like to donate a prize please contact me. All proceeds from the raffle go direct to Kick Start for Kids, a charity supplying 60,000 breakfasts  & 10,000 lunches p/week to over 360 schools state-wide. 

We currently have over 60 boats registered and have approx. 250 visitors come to town during the event some stay for the week hopefully spending in your community.

Most stay at the Big 4 Caravan Park where we base  ourselves for the week.

We would love to get some locals come along on the run and the invitation is open to join us with your Pre 2000 Ski Boats ( sorry no Wake boats or  Jet skis).

Our Giant raffle has accommodation prizes, ski shop vouchers,

Hardware vouchers, merch packs etc.

13 prizes were given out and $1,000 raised in 2022 for the Renmark  Childrens Centre.

If you would like to know more, donate to our raffle, or come along you 

can contact me on any of the below.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Darren Collins – 0488 091 963 – https://saolskoolskiboatsc.com/

[email protected]

Face Book

Australian Ol Skool Ski Boats – 

Sa ol skool ski boat social club – https://www.facebook.com/SAOSSBSC

Note you will have to join group of Australian Ol Skool Ski Boat FB Page. It is a Private group.

Links to ‘Ol Skool Ski Boat web-site & face-book page are listed below, there is also a link to the first Vic Chapter ‘Ol Skool Ski Boat run ‘The Eppalcock Extravaganza’ held March long weekend 2023 AND for those interested there is also a link to the Eppalock Gold Cup ‘Show n Shine’ hosted by the Victorian Speed Boat Club Jan 6th & 7th.

SA ‘Ol Skool Ski Boat Run 2024

2024 Eppalock GOLD CUP

Get ready for an extraordinary event as the Victorian Speed Boat Club gears up to host the highly anticipated annual Eppalock Gold Cup boat race on January 6th and 7th. This two-day event is a round of the Australian Power Boat Championship series and has been eagerly awaited by racing enthusiasts. The Eppalock Cup, a Perpetual Trophy with a rich history dating back to 1996, will be up for grabs at this year’s race meeting.

The event promises to be a thrilling spectacle featuring the best powerboat racing in Australia. Attendees will witness a range of racing boat classes, from the nimble 15Hp Junior boats to the powerful 2000 HP monsters capable of reaching incredible speeds of over 270Kmh. The GP Hydroplanes, known to be the fastest, loudest, and most exciting boats on the water, will also be racing in this event.

In addition to the heart-stopping races, the event will also feature a Classic car show, a Vintage boat display, and many fun activities for children. The Victorian Speed Boat Club, situated on the shores of Lake Eppalock, Speed Boat Road Derrinal, is the perfect venue for this high-octane event, which will kick off at 9.00 am on January 6^th and 7^th. Families and friends can expect to enjoy a fun-filled day of fast-charged racing action and exhibitions. Food and drinks will be available throughout the day, and children under 16 are permitted free admission.  Part of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the local CFA.

For more information, check out the attached promotional flyer, or feel free to contact Steve Scott at 0438356369.

Or email the promotions team, contact: [email protected]

Come Feel the Noise! – VSBC.Org.au

“Come Feel the Noise”

“Come Feel the Noise”

Jan 6th & 7th 2024

Hosted by the Victorian Speed Boat Club

Australia’s number ‘1’ classic Old School Ski Boat

GILFLITE Javelin Mk II – (SOLD MAY 2025)

Beautiful Classic in perfect condition for its age!  Nothing to spend – Well worth a look!

Taurus is an original ‘Classic Australian Ski Boat’ designed and built by David Gill – Gilflite Boats. It is a sky blue Javelin MKII ski boat with loads of features. It has a 308 V8 and custom built trailer. It has been carefully maintained and has loads of brand new features. It is reliable and stylish and in excellent condition for its age.

$17,900

Contact (Seller) Pam on 0401 481 067

Boat Description

1975 Gilflite Javelin clinker MKII Ski Boat with loads of special features including:

• One Owner – for 45 years
• Newly reconditioned Holden 308 V8 motor – low engine hours (just run in)
• 4 barrel holly carby, chrome rockers and water pipes
• Carburettor serviced and rebuilt
• New spark plugs
• Heavy duty timing chain
• New water pump
• Upgraded valve springs to suit racing cam shaft
• Brand new custom designed and built trailer with mechanical disc brakes –  includes adjustable rollers, winch and guide poles
• Trailer spray painted with tupac
• Mag wheels
• New tyres
• New floor including bearers/stringers – bearer and floors replaced by a shipwright.
• Air vented floor
• Sky blue with contrasting blue upholstered interior and carpet
• Marine upholstery replaced
• Marine carpet replaced
• Boat cover
• Boat rego till Sept’24
• Trailer rego till August ‘24

History

• Always garaged
• Fresh water use only.

The classic sweet sound of the Holden 308

The GILFLITE Javelin 

the following information is supplied from original spec sheets & advertising  –  circa 1970’s

5 METRE GILFLITE ‘JAVELIN’

Australia’s newest and most advanced inboard ski boat (released: 1970)

FOR STYLING & PERFORMANCE INCORPORATING PROVEN DESIGN FEATURES DEVELOPED FROM A BACKGROUND OF RACING SUCCESSES UNSURPASSED BY ANY OTHER BOAT BUILDER IN THIS COUNTRY.

With a Hull designed by David Gill, widely acknowledged as Australia’s foremost authority on high speed clinker design and an instantly appealing deck and cockpit from today’s most forward looking stylists, GILFLITE Boats now offer their 5 metre ‘Javelin’ for unmatched prestige, proven performance, superior handling and comfort that make it the ideal boat for family fun or competition racing, or for the enthusiast who likes to bare foot or fly a kite.

JAVELIN MK II

JAVELIN Mk II – Length: 5.3m Beam 2m. Bred from an unequaled background of race-winning and high performance hulls the GILFLITE JAVELIN Mk II offers all that could be desired in a distinctively styled, safe & superior handling ski boat. Thoroughly tested on the tough proving ground of the race circuit. (The Mk II released: circa 1973).

The highly-animated Gilflite Esprit plays a ‘spiritoso’ out on the water. As its name suggests, this bowrider oozes sprightliness and lively intelligence.

VERSATILITY PLUS The Esprit’s outboard configuration also has the advantage of being suitable for fresh or saltwater. Its efficient hull handles chop well adding to the attractiveness as an open-water ski boat.

An excellent all-round ski boat both versatile and capable of handling anything the owner decides to throw at it. The nonconformist Gilflite Esprit might just precipitate an ‘esprit de corps’ among the ski boat fraternity.

The design of the GILFLITE Esprit …….

At 6.00m in length, 2.23m beam, with an 18° deadrise, the hull’s solid, yet stylish, design has had Australian Water Ski Association (AWSA) accreditation for trick, slalom and barefoot skiing.

The Esprit boasts a spacious layout with premium-grade interior finish.

At the helm, a fully height and travel adjustable driver’s bucket seat would allow anyone to drive the boat with unobstructed visibility and within full reach of the controls. The keyed ignition was easy to reach, with the hand throttle and trim adjustment located on the starboard side.

Identical to the comfortable driver’s seat, the passenger/observer seat is solid mounted with a 360° swivel, providing the option for the passenger to face forward if not observing a skier.

Both the driver and passenger are protected by a strong, rolled-top, tinted acrylic wraparound windscreen. A removable centre walk-through panel in the windscreen enabled access to the open bow.

The bow cockpit provides seating for up to three people, with the comfortable cushions lifting to reveal storage compartments beneath.

PERFORMANCE

HIGH-PRESSURE POWER While inboard ski boats dominate the recreational and tournament skiing sectors, after a run in the Esprit even the most hard-core inboard devotee could be converted.

Quickly rising to the plane and at a reasonable wakeboarding speed of around 21mph (34 kmh), the Esprit puts out a decent wash with smooth ramps and a nice flat table in between. Added weight would no doubt create even steeper ramps for more experienced boarders.

Contrastingly, at ski speed of around 36mph (58 kmh), the boat’s wake is flat, proving itself as an all round performer.

The Esprit rises onto the plane quickly with the trim adjusted at almost any angle. Throwing the boat into corners at speed, the boat sits very flat – similar to an inboard – and shows no hint of cavitation.

Details of Esprit for sale – as advertised by owner

• Model: 2000 Gilflite Esprit Bowrider – year of manufacture: 2000
• Powered by: 200 Mariner 200HP (Cowl recently sprayed and new decals)
• 5 blade Mercury propeller – amazing acceleration and pulling power from a still start
• Full storm cover (Boat Cover)
• New Quiksilver throttle control box and cables.
• 2018 ‘Sales’ dual-axle trailer with new tyres. Cable brakes. 7-pin flat connector
• New ‘genuine’ upholstery skins professionally fitted 7 years ago. Slight tear in rear seat stitching. Otherwise, the upholstery is in excellent condition
• Windscreen replaced 5 years ago
• Motor hours not known as hour meter was new 6 or 7 years ago
• Blue ‘metal flake’ underside paint – glistens off the water surface
• Gets used 4-6 times a year maximum
• Regular servicing – Sydney Outboard Service
• Rear under-seat bimini cover
• New underfloor fuel tank 8 years ago
• Rear eskies need new rivets for the hinges
• Tacho is bouncing around a bit – possible loose wire?
• Radio doesn’t work – but who needs those nowadays anyway
• For the right buyer if in Vic, happy to drive somewhere halfway for exchange
• Will need someone in Sydney to inspect / test drive if necessary
• Owned since 2009. No skiers or boarders. Occasional tube riders only.
• 60+ years old now, so a bit old to be roaring around in a speed boat
• Want to keep it in the Gilflite family – so not advertised elsewhere (at this stage)

Price: $28,000.00 – negotiable with owner

For further information please contact the owner directly

• Location: Loftus – (South of Sydney) 
• Contact: Ross Perry
• Tel: 0410 437 315

Photo Gallery

A.W.S.A. (AUSTRALIAN WATER SKI ASSOCIATION) TOURNAMENT BOAT

GILFLITE a style of Life !

Note:

(Advertised by owner updated Feb 24)

Swedish Ski Team

When the Swedish Ski Team came out to Australia to train during our summer (their winter), they skied/trained behind the GILFLITE Esprit. The Ski Team loved the performance of the Esprit so much that they bought the boat and took it back to Sweden with them.

Fully restored (complete re-build by TJM Fibreglass)

SPITFIRE – a name often connected by many with either fighter aircraft or spirited women: so it is with this boat.

A fast sports craft with spirit, looks and performance. A great barefoot boat. (extract from original GILFITE advertising at time of release)

Put yourself in the drivers seat of this ‘as new’ GILFLITE Spitfire

Completely re-built in 2022 by TJM Fibreglass (one of the best in the business), this GILFLITE Spitfire is nothing short of immaculate! The boat is literally brand new from port to starboard and bow to transom. The engine has been re-built and the trailer is negotiable in the price, (still in the process of completion). To purchase this boat brand new, one would have to consider spending upwards of $70,000.00. However, this as new GILFLITE Spitfire is for sale at half the price.

This GILFLITE is a show piece, ready to provide any water sports family with impressive handling, great performance, good looks, durability and excellent skiing/barefooting and family fun for decades to come.

Please Note: To restore an iconic Spitfire ‘old school ski boat’ like this, and bring it back to it’s former glory will cost well above the asking price of this immaculately finished Spitfire.

• Complete rebuild / restoration in 2022 by TJM fibreglass repair
• Custom colour & interior design and complete hull restoration to original GILFLITE Specs.
• 350 chev re build December 2022
• Re wire December 2022
• New floors ,bearers , transom November 2022
• Complete gelcoat re spray includes metal flake stripe , boat flipped in rotator and bottom even re gelcoated
• New prop, shaft, rudder, skeg
• New gunnel
• New interior November 2022 – this boat has been completely re-trimmed with quality uv upholstery by quality marine upholsterer (also one of the best)! Custom designed & fitted.
• New carpet – fully re carpeted with marine grade uv carpet
• New engine cover
• High pole with racks – custom fitted
• Optimax battery
• New Fusion stereo and quality speakers
• Bimini top – sun protection (Bimini top & boat cover, custom fitted by marine cover experts)
• New travel cover – full length heavy duty boat cover, custom fitted.
• Original duel axel trailer has been sandblasted and needs a bit of welding and painting, can be negotiated in sale if needed (finished or as is).
• PRICE: $35,000.00

For further information please contact sell – Trent

• Contact: Trent Martin – tel: 0422 667 610
• Location: Bayswater area (Victoria)

Photo Gallery Below

These features coupled with this boats legendary flawless finish and faultless colour and trim combinations makes this Gilflite Spitfire, for the true water sportsman, THE boat to be seen in.

ORIGINAL SPECS – as released when first built

SPITFIRE PHASE 2 (Spitfire Mk II)

COMPACT DESIGN – LARGE BOAT PERFORMANCE –

PROVEN PERFORMANCE – 5 AUSTRALIAN RECORDS AT 1982 NATIONALS –

OFFICIAL TOW BOAT FOR 1983 NATIONALS IN HOBART.

• Released:             1982
• Length Overall:  5m (16’8”) not including Boarding Platform
• Beam Overall:     1.93m (6’4”)
• Seating:                 6 ADULTS
• Fuel Tank Capacity:
• Centre mount engine

For further info on this iconic sports boat, check out the following link

As advertised when released in the 1970’s (over 50 years ago) ….. FOR STYLING & PERFORMANCE INCORPORATING PROVEN DESIGN FEATURES DEVELOPED FROM A BACKGROUND OF RACING SUCCESSES UNSURPASSED BY ANY OTHER BOAT BUILDER IN THIS COUNTRY.

With a Hull designed by David Gill, widely acknowledged as Australia’s foremost authority on high speed clinker design and an instantly appealing deck and cockpit from today’s most forward looking stylists, GILFLITE Boats now offer their 5 metre ‘Javelin’ for unmatched prestige, proven performance, superior handling and comfort that make it the ideal boat for family fun or competition racing, or for the enthusiast who likes to bare foot or fly a kite.

This GILFLITE Javelin has been in the family for 40 years and is now up for sale

Details of boat as follows;

GILFLITE Javelin Mk I (approx build date: 1974)

Condition: Very Good – original condition

Engine: 307 – dog clutch

Tandem Trailer

Price: $12,000

Please note: Not all gauges work

For further information please contact the owners direct

Call, Kylie on 0418101472 or Glen on 0411037427.

Further details to follow

For further info on the remarkable GILFLITE Javelin, check out the specs page on the GILFITE web site (link to specs page below).