Event celebrates a century of Ford

THE City of Greater Geelong has announced it will host a special free event to celebrate Ford Australia’s centenary.

The US-founded marque started its Australian presence at Geelong’s Dalgety Wool Store in 1925 before moving to a larger site in Norlane.

On May 24 and May 25 between 1pm and 3pm, 100 Years of Ford in Geelong: The Cars, The People & The Local Legacy will be presented at the National Wool Museum.

The two events will feature a short screening of archival material, followed by an engaging panel discussion.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to view a small collection of archival display items, offering a tangible connection to Ford’s storied past in Geelong.

The exhibition will allow visitors to explore the rich history and lasting legacy of Ford in Geelong from multiple perspectives, including the company’s impact, the local industry’s evolution, and the passionate community of Ford enthusiasts.

Australia was one of the first markets Ford established outside North America and Geelong was selected for an assembly plant because of its convenient location to the port and railways, available land and labour force.

The first Australian-assembled Model T rolled off the Geelong assembly line in 1925, with the plant transforming into a centre of innovation when the first ute was designed by Lew Bandt and built here in 1934.

Ford Falcons, Fairlanes and Territories are just some of the homegrown models to be produced and the last Australian-made straight-six and V8 engines were manufactured in 2016. Ford even built military vehicles during World War II, with women stepping up to replace the large male workforce who had left to fight.

While Ford Australia no longer manufactures cars in Norlane, it is the site of their Research and Development Centre and served as a state vaccination hub during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company still retains its 900-hectare You Yangs Proving Ground at Lara.

Ford Australia and the Geelong Football Club are celebrating 100 years of their partnership, believed to be the world’s longest running in professional sport.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the community was proud to be part of Australian automotive history.

“The Ford factory in Geelong and then Norlane formed a significant part of our region’s identity and put Geelong on the map as a manufacturing hub with a skilled workforce, something that remains true today.

“Family histories ran deep at Ford, with multiple generations working at the plant and some spending their whole working lives there.

“Loyalty to Ford continues in our region’s mindset and collective history, and we congratulate Ford Australia on its centenary.”

Chair of the council’s arts and culture, hospitality and live entertainment portfolio Cr Eddy Kontelj said the city was excited to celebrate 100 years of Ford Australia in Geelong.

“If you or a family member worked at the Ford factory and the dealerships that maintained the vehicles, or you’re a car or history nut, or just want to learn more about Geelong’s manufacturing heritage, we invite you to get your ticket to 100 Years of Ford in Geelong.

“This is a chance for you to take a deep dive into old photos, interviews and interesting history that reflect our region’s proud manufacturing roots and contributed to the city’s UNESCO Creative City of Design designation.”

While entry to either day of 100 Years of Ford in Geelong: The Cars, The People & The Local Legacy is free, spots are strictly limited, and attendees must secure their tickets by heading to geelong.link/100YearsOfFord