Advertise on podcast: Let's Drive Together with Glenn Ridge

What happens to our beloved classic cars when the people who know how to restore, maintain and preserve them eventually put down the tools? It's a question many enthusiasts have asked—but David Dyer decided to do something about it. In this episode of Let's Drive Together with Glenn Ridge, Glenn sits down with David Dyer, founder of The Modern Classic Car Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to training the next generation of tradespeople who will keep classic motoring alive for decades to come. Based at Bankstown Airport, the Foundation combines apprenticeship programs with hands-on restoration, maintenance and specialist vehicle projects, ensuring the skills that have shaped Australia's automotive culture aren't lost to time. From MGAs and MGBs to resto-mods and even electrified classics, David shares his passion for preserving automotive heritage while embracing the realities of a changing industry. Whether you're a classic car owner, collector, restorer or simply someone who loves cars, this conversation explores why the future of our hobby depends on investing in the next generation. At Famous Insurance, we understand that classic cars are more than machines—they're stories, memories and passions worth protecting. That's why conversations like this matter.

Car culture has always had a remarkable way of bringing people together—and raising extraordinary amounts of money for charity. From the legendary Variety Bash, which has generated over $200 million, to the Shitbox Rally’s $65 million for the Cancer Council, automotive events continue to make a massive impact. Add in the countless local car shows, cruise meets, and “cars and coffee” gatherings, and the contribution to communities becomes even more impressive. One event born out of the COVID era has become a standout: the Yea Cruise Nights in regional Victoria. Every summer month, up to 100 cars roll into the main street, creating a vibrant community moment where local charities benefit—and so do the pubs, cafés, and hospitality venues that thrive on the influx of visitors. In this episode of Famous Last Words, we sit down with the man behind Yea’s Cruise Nights, Dale McKeon. Influenced by his father and inspired by the American icons of the ’50s and ’60s, Dale is a lifelong hot‑rod enthusiast whose pride and joy is a striking red 1961 Cadillac. He’s also a highly regarded automotive photographer, capturing stunning images at events across Australia. You can find his work on Instagram at @plymouthdalephotos. This conversation dives into Dale’s passion for cars, community, and the unique way he’s managed to blend the two. It’s a story about connection, creativity, and the power of shared enthusiasm. Enjoy this episode with Dale McKeon—proof that when people come together around something they love, everyone wins.

2025 marked a turning point for the automotive world—both in Australia and globally. With over 1.2 million new cars sold nationwide, utes dominated the charts, claiming three of the top four spots, while compact SUVs continued their surge in popularity. At the same time, electric vehicles gained serious momentum, driven in part by the rapid rise of Chinese manufacturers. But beyond the numbers, it was the sheer volume of new brands entering the Australian market that really got people talking. In this episode, veteran motoring commentator Mike Sinclair breaks down the year that was, shares his outlook on what’s ahead, and explores the big questions shaping the industry. How will government policies like the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) impact buyers? And is the push to end new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035 actually achievable?

Peter Vandesluys has spent decades restoring classic motor cars, both in Australia through his company Re-creation Automotive and previously in the United States. Over the years, he’s brought countless beautiful machines back to life—but one recent project stands out as both his most challenging and most rewarding. In this episode, Peter shares the remarkable story behind the restoration of a 1962 Lancia Flaminia Sport Zagato. Originally built to compete in legendary events like the Targa Florio in Palermo, Italy, the car lived a hard and varied early life before arriving in Sydney in 1965. After years of wear and neglect, it has now been given an extraordinary new lease on life. This isn’t just a story about restoration—it’s about history, craftsmanship, and the next chapter of a truly special car. As Peter explains, finishing the restoration was not the end, but the beginning of yet another colourful phase in the Flaminia’s journey. We hope you enjoy this conversation with Peter Vandesluys of Re-creation Automotive.

John Zeigler is a celebrated advertising and marketing executive best known for his senior leadership within the global network DDB. He led one of the most successful agency groups in the Asia-Pacific region—26 agencies across 14 countries with more than 3,200 employees—and was honoured as the Academy of Marketing Science’s Global Marketer of the Year in 2013. But beyond the boardroom, John is a lifelong car enthusiast. Growing up around his father’s passion for motoring, he went on to restore and modify countless cars. Now, he’s taking on his most ambitious challenge yet: launching his own car manufacturing company. Together with business partner Greg Bailey, John has founded Zeigler Bailey, building modern, high-quality cars inspired by the iconic G-Series Porsche 911s of the ’70s and ’80s. With eight orders already placed, they’re preparing to launch in Australia next year—then take their creations to the world. Some may call the dream far-fetched, but after seeing the Melbourne workshop, the craftsmanship, and the team’s enthusiasm, it’s clear John, Greg, and their investors could be onto something extraordinary. Enjoy this month’s episode of Let's Drive Together with Glenn Ridge, featuring the remarkable journey of John Zeigler.

2025 marks a major milestone for Brad Jones Racing as theteam celebrates 25 years in one of the most competitive and high-stakes arenas in motorsport — the Australian Supercars Championship. After achieving success across a range of categories including Formula Ford, Production Touring, GT racing, as well as championship victories in AUSCAR, NASCAR, and Australian Super Touring, Brad and his brother Kim made their Supercars debut in 2000. They entered the series with a Ford AUFalcon acquired from Tony Longhurst Racing, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their motorsport journey. This year also brings exciting news for the team’s future,with the announcement of a partnership with Toyota. Starting in 2026, Brad Jones Racing will field four Toyota GR Supras in the Supercars Championship — a bold step forward for the team. With decades of experience in Australian motorsport, BradJones has no shortage of stories, insights, and reflections. In this episode of the Famous Last Words podcast, Brad shares his journey, memorable moments, and his connections with some of the most iconic figures in the sport. We hope you enjoy this special conversation with Brad Jones.

In the latest chat Glenn Ridge chats to Glen Wood — a bloke who’s been tearing it up in the Pro ranks of the Porsche Carrera Cup and loving every second of it. Glen’s no rookie. He kicked things off in Aussie Formula Ford, then took his talents to the UK in British Formula Ford before jumping into the Australian GT scene. He’s raced just about everything on four wheels — and if you’re into endurance, he’s your guy: 8 starts at Bathurst 12 Hour, 2 at the Dubai 24, he has driven Development Series Holden's to Lamborghini's and has a stack of wild stories to go with them. We talk early days, sibling rivalries (yes, he’s gone door-to-door with older brother Dale Wood), and what life’s really like behind the wheel in one of the country’s most intense racing series. Glen’s got serious talent, great banter, and plenty of tales from the track — this one’s fast, fun, and full of fuel. Strap in.

In this special episode from the Famous archives, we revisit an unforgettable chat with a true icon of Australian motorsport — Barry Oliver. Barry's voice is instantly recognisable to fans across the country, but his legacy goes far beyond the commentary box. I first met Barry over 30 years ago at the Targa Tasmania Tarmac Rally, where he teamed up with motorsport great Jim Richards. That partnership would go on to make history: 78 starts, 43 podium finishes, and 25 wins — making them the most successful duo in Australian tarmac rallying. We talk about those epic years on the road, the stories behind the stats, and Barry’s deep love for the sport — from V8 Supercars to his work behind the scenes on countless motorsport committees. Whether you're a die-hard motorsport fan or just love a great story, this one’s worth your time. Settle in for a ride through racing history with one of the sport’s most respected voices.

We’re throwing it back to September 2023 for a seriously revved-up episode featuring Bernie Quinn, the engineering brain behind Premcar—the Aussie powerhouse behind some of the most exciting performance projects on (and off) the road. From the Nissan Navara Warrior to hush-hush auto collaborations, Bernie shares stories from inside the garages of Toyota, Ford, FPV, and beyond—before co-founding Premcar and helping redefine Aussie performance engineering. We talk shop, future tech, wild rides, and what really goes on behind the scenes of car development. There’s even a sneak peek into Bernie’s personal garage. Brought to you by Famous Insurance, because we know how to spot a car worth covering—and a story worth telling. Buckle up with Glenn Ridge for another Famous chat. 👀🎙️

We are throwing back to 2020 when Glenn sat down with Melbourne’s king of classic motorcycles—Johnny Gee. Collector, storyteller, café owner and the force behind Naked Racer Moto Co, Johnny’s been keeping Australia’s motorcycle heritage alive (and roaring) for over 30 years. From a garage full of rare Indians to a bar full of bike lovers, Johnny’s built more than just a business—he’s built a motorcycling institution. With over 250 classic machines under one roof, a buzzing café, workshop, and an atmosphere that smells like espresso and engine oil, Naked Racer is part museum, part local legend. We talk wild stories from Johnny’s time buying vintage bikes across the US, the history behind his favorite two-wheelers, and what it takes to run one of the most iconic moto spaces in the country. Powered by Famous Insurance—because bikes like these aren’t just machines, they’re memories worth protecting. Pull up a stool, order a long black, and enjoy the ride. 🏍️☕🎧

This episode with Glenn Ridge features a name synonymous with Australian rallying—Dean Herridge. With rallying quite literally in his blood, Dean grew up in the co-driver seat of life. Son of dual Australian Rally Champion Rob Herridge, Dean carved his own path across gravel, tarmac, off-road stages, and circuits around the world. From Bathurst to the FIA Pacific Cup, and the Sunraysia Safari, Dean has done it all—with the trophies to prove it. We dive into the moments that shaped his career—from family influences to mental strategies behind race prep, life as a Subaru works driver, and his continued involvement in motorsport through Maximum Motorsport. There’s go-karting, fatherhood, and a rally-driving masterclass thrown in too (yes, from the passenger seat). Brought to you by Famous Insurance, because legends like Dean—and the machines they drive—deserve to be protected. Start your engines. Or don’t. Just hit play. 🚗💨🎙️ Rally DrivingMaster Class with Dean Herridge – Motorsport Australia

Rotary Royalty: Maisie Place on Grit, Gears & Going Full Throttle In this episode of Famous Last Words, we sit down with one of the most exciting names in Australian motorsport: Maisie Place. At just 25, Maisie is already a qualified mechanic, competitive RX-8 Cup driver, and race team owner—making waves on and off the track in a scene still largely dominated by men. Maisie shares her journey from apprentice under rotary legend Jon Waterhouse to leading her own team at events like the Bathurst 6 Hour and the Nürburgring 24 Hour. She opens up about the late nights in the workshop (sometimes sleeping there to get the job done), the power of mentorship, and what it’s like navigating motorsport as a woman. 💬 “I got to meet Leanne Tander and thought—oh, girls can do this.”💬 “When you’re in the race car, the rest of the world stops—and I love that.”💬 “If you read my messages, you’d be mortified.” This is a raw, inspiring look into what it takes to build a career in motorsport from the ground up—with nothing but grit, talent, and a love for rotary engines. 🔧 Listen now and get under the hood with one of the industry’s rising stars.

🏁 George Vidovic: The Man Behind Python Vehicles 🏁 From a humble Melbourne garage to the high banks of Daytona, George Vidovic has spent over 35 years building a legacy in motorsport and engineering. In this episode, we dive into his journey — from creating Australia’s most respected Cobra replicas at Python Vehicles, to winningmultiple Victorian Sports Car Championships with the iconic #98 Python Cobra. We also talk racing in the U.S., including the Classic Daytona 24 and Sebring 12 Hour, his beloved McLaren M6B Can-Am car, and building a Cobra for none other than F1 legend Michael Schumacher. 💥 Fast cars. Big dreams. No shortcuts. #GeorgeVidovic #PythonVehicles #Motorsport #CobraReplica #Daytona24 #CarCulture #famous #famousinsurance #pscrv #sportscars #mclaren #canam #cobra #shelby #kitcar

🏁 Toby Hederics: Rookie Rider to Dakar Finisher 🏁 The 2025 Dakar Rally had plenty of drama — from Daniel Sanders taking the Moto title to Toby Price switching to four wheels — but it’s Toby Hederics who stole our hearts. Raised on the banks of the Murray in Gol Gol and the son of Aussie desert racing legend John Hederics, Toby only set his sights on Dakar two years ago. After being the top rookie at Rally du Maroc 2023, he earned his shot — and made it count. In this episode, Toby shares the real story behind his Dakar debut: the prep, the struggle to fund the dream, the emotional highs and lows of the world’s toughest rally, and the pride of finishing as the 19th overall, 9th in Rally 2, and 2nd among rookies. 🎧 Hit play and get inspired by one of Australia’s rising off-road stars. #Dakar2025 #TobyHederics #RallyLife #RookieRider #MotoAdventure #AustralianMotorsport #OffRoadRacing #DesertDreams #FamousLastWordsPodcast #famous #famousinsurance #ktm

🏁 Mal Rose: Privateer to Endurance Racing Legend In this episode, we sit down with one of Australia’s most respected racing privateers — Mal Rose. With a career spanning over 30 years, Mal has raced it all: from Formula Ford and AUSCAR to V8 Supercars, and even 24-hour endurance classics around the globe. He’s a former Australian Production Car Champion, V8 Supercar Privateer Series winner, and has made 13 consecutive starts at the Nürburgring 24 Hour, including five with Aston Martin Racing. Mal has also claimed class wins at Spa, Dubai, Malaysia, and Bathurst. Beyond driving, Mal is a skilled mechanic and car builder who has prepared everything from Subaru STis to Nissan GTRs, Aston Martins, and even race trucks. In this chat, he shares stories from the pit to the podium — including the time he raced against F1 engineering mastermind Adrian Newey. 🎧 Tune in for an epic motorsport journey — from the workshop to the world stage. #MalRose #EnduranceRacing #Nurburgring24 #AstonMartinRacing #PrivateerLife #AustralianMotorsport #Bathurst #Spa24 #FamousLastWordsPodcast #RaceCarDriver #famous #famousinsurance #holden #supercar #v8supercar #mirage #privateer #astonmartin