Promo power

The promo car concept in the wireless world goes back to the early ‘60s and they’re still being used today. Canberra radio historian Wayne Mac explores this subject in his book, Don’t Touch That Dial – Hits ‘n’ Memories of Australian Radio. Everything from 3XY’s double-decker bus to 4KQ’s ‘Choo Choo’ (a VW Kombi modified to resemble a steam train) have cruised the streets trying to attract attention. These photos feature two of the more interesting examples:

•  In 1964, the ‘Sound Guys’ from Brisbane radio station 4IP turned up for a jock’s convention at the Sandy Gallop golf course in this snappy Rambler convertible. It’s a RHD version, one of a few Ramblers to be assembled locally by Australian Motor Industries in Melbourne.
  
  
• In 1976 Geelong station 3GL promoted their 'Summer Life' campaign by giving away a Holden Sunbird (which some unkind folk might say was the only way to get rid of Holden’s crappy four-cylinder Toranas). This one was disguised to look like something worth having, with the addition of some Aunger mags and two babes in tight T-shirts. It’s doubtful that too many locals would have been seen dead in a Sunbird, even a free one - Geelong is the national capital of Ford Country!