Bubsie stops in Byron on centenary trip

A 1920s Citroën 5CV recreating the first circumnavigation of Australia by car stopped at the Byron Community Centre this week as part of a nationwide tribute to an unsung motoring pioneer.

The vehicle, known as Bubsie, is marking the 100th anniversary of Perth man Nevill Westwood’s journey around the continent in 1925. Westwood was 22 years old and working as a Christian book salesman when he set out in a second-hand Citroën, determined to make a difference in the lives of others.

His journey took almost a year, overcoming mechanical failures, isolation and rough country tracks, including sections where no roads existed.

“It is a story that needed to be retold for today’s generation,” said Glenda Amos, who is leading the centenary trip with her husband Kevin. “Taking a tribute vehicle around is a very tangible and visible way to share it.”

The modern route closely follows Westwood’s original, but detours have been made to avoid difficult terrain and reach more populated areas. In remote regions, the car is transported by trailer and driven on quieter roads where conditions are safe.

“Bubsie’s average speed is only about 30 kilometres an hour,” Glenda said. “It also has no synchromesh, a floor brake that stops the drive shaft, and the accelerator is between the clutch and brake, so you need to be very sure you are using the right pedal.”

Despite these quirks, the car has captured attention across the country. “Its simple mechanics are a source of amazement,” Glenda said. “People have expressed their gratitude that Bubsie has come to their locality so they could share in the story.”

Byron was one of several Northern Rivers stops before the team continued south. Westwood’s original Citroën, also named Bubsie, is preserved at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.