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With the racing out of the way today was to be a trip from Homebush Bay to the Opera House, crossing the Harbour Bridge, however the weather wasn't looking inviting. After the teams drove into Melbourne in heavy rain it was decided that it was unwise to tackle Sydney's busy roads in poor conditions. So all cars were packed into trailers to travel to the city, escorted
by police.
Once there the cars drove the very short distance onto the forecourt of the Opera House, where the cars were put on display to the public. With so many people about there were a lot of questions to be answered, as well as many heart palpitations as all solar car teams had to discourage people from leaning on our precious solar arrays. After photos were taken everyone was given the hurry up to get back to Homebush Bay. Despite the improved weather the cars again travelled in a convoy in their trailers.
Once back at Homebush Bay it was time for the presentation lunch. This was a buffet lunch at the Novotel, and it certainly made a change from the barbeques which we had eaten along the way. The UNSW Solar Racing Team walked away with an award for second place in the race, and a special award made for technical innovation. This was bestowed on us for the solar cells which we had manufactured ourselves, and for the method of encapsulating the cells into curved panels, both of which were world firsts for solar car teams. After the awards it was time to say our final farewells to other teams, and wish them safe journeys.
For the UNSW SRT, it was time to wash the hire cars ready for their return, and to put away some of the gear which had been taken from cars the previous night. Then it was time to celebrate. The night started at the Duke of Gloucester where a steak dinner was enjoyed by past and present team members. Then we retired to Churchill's when the DoG closed its doors, then Souths Juniors as the night wore on...
Well, since our journey has come to a close, I feel there are a few people I'd like to thank. To Dr. Jeff Cotter, for lending us the digital camera and to Marc Salem for making it possible to upload what was written. To Tim Wardrop for writing parts of these reports, and for correcting all the mistakes that Word didn't pick up, and to Rob Reid for publishing everything that we've sent him on the web page.
To the University, Hungry Jack's, and all our partners and sponsors - thanks for your support, making the Solar Racing project possible!
Finally to the team for the stories and the memories - till next time... may the sun shine on your back! - Andrew Pratley.
Willy The Whale
Willy!
Mail Bag
If you have a question for the team, or would like to wish them well, write to our mail bag, care of Ask Willy. | | | |
