(By Glenn Falla)
The news had reached Geelong, that Donald Motorcycles was having a closing down sale.  

Thanks to Stephen Baird for letting me know and suggesting someone should write an article; and Thomas Manifold for the image of the closing down sale front window.

This got me thinking, as this business was not only run by family friends but had a huge impact on my upbringing in the Donald community, as I was sure it did on others. 

So the old photo collections came out and a couple of things occurred to me. 

First and foremost, who if anyone would formally document and thank the Gillahan and Moore families for their contribution to the community if not me? 

Secondly, historic records of such events need to be kept, and this old building at 46 Woods St, Donald was once the home of the “Donald Times’, the “Donald Birchip Times”, now renamed the “Buloke Times”. I knew this because I assisted in cleaning up the shop as a twelve-year-old and preparing for the new business to open.

The next thing I know, I’m discussing such matters with Robin Letts, and he has me in stitches sharing some old stories about happenings in the building and surrounds from the good old days.  

Appreciation 
So without contacting any remaining family members, I’ve gathered some images and on behalf of the Donald community, want to thank both the late and great Keith Moore, and Andy Gillahan, for all they have contributed since opening the doors back in 1981.

I well remember assisting with the clean-up and painting of the shop, the many purchases and hours of time spent socialising in and around the business as a teenager, before leaving Donald in 1987.

In the beginning the business sold and serviced motorcycles and farm equipment such as 4x4 quads and UTVs. Over the years they diversified and sold pushbikes, mowers and, of course, the entire Stihl range of equipment. Beginning as a Suzuki and Yamaha dealer, other brands come along such as Honda and CF Moto.

Rally Supporters  
Keith and Andy were avid supporters of the Donald Tourers Motorcycle Club and the Dead Centre Rally, and the business went above and beyond to support them. Recovery sessions after the events sitting around the pool at the Moore residence were as much looked forward to as the Rally itself.

The images attached depict the thriving motorcycle culture that was very evident particularly in the ’80s and ’90s and many living in the region have a lot to be thankful for that culture. 

As with any road and off road racing culture there is an element of risk associated, and some local families might not be so thankful.

Forty-three years is a long time for any family in a small business and it’s a shame that Donald is losing such a community-minded and supportive supplier. 

Thanks to all members of both families for your commitment to the local community and on behalf of that community we appreciate the memories.