Random # 312: HK Panel Van (a Not Boring History Lesson)

This 1968-9 HK Holden panel van is a prime example of what was, by the late 1970s to early '80s, fondly known as a "shaggin' wagon." The origins of these iconic machines have their basis in Aussie surf culture, as vividly portrayed in Kathy Lette's 1981 coming of age novel, Puberty Blues.

The phenomenon began simply enough with surfers' use of panel vans and station wagons - anything from VW Kombis through to Holdens, Fords and Chryslers - as mobile change rooms, and simple but comfortable beachside accommodation in which they could sleep or pursue other horizontal activities. Early examples were simple affairs: a roof rack for the 'boards, a foam mattress, and curtains, but only if your mother was prepared to sew them.

They weren't status symbols at first, with older - and thus cheaper - ex-tradie vehicles being all the rage. It was the sea, not the road, that early adopters worshipped.

However, by the late 1970s, a new breed of van owner emerged. They could see the allure of the surfies' vans as make-do bedrooms - and the opportunities that bedrooms that weren't part of their parents' houses presented - leading to the birth of the hotted-up shaggin' wagon, not only as a bonk-mobile but as a fully-fledged expression of their love of petrol!

Today's feature car - a Victorian-registered example captured on its owner's last day touring Tasmania - illustrates the evolution of the shaggin' wagon from simple beach-shack-on-wheels to every horny hoon's (wet) dream! Although it probably started out as a poverty-pack Belmont (not sure of HK vans were ever available as Kingswoods?), it's been upgraded with a one-step-up-again Premier front end with quad-headlights, plus a 253 cu V8 and a T-bar auto. The fat "jelly bean" alloys, side pipes and full-width rear bumper complete the look, although some might suggest that a bubble window was required for full compliance with the formula!

At their height, shaggin' wagons not uncommonly featured expansive murals - often in the genre of a Meatloaf album cover - as well as lavish interiors with velvet padded everything, bars, TVs and sound-systems, plus the ever-popular "arch" (a portal separating the driving compartment from the van's recreational area) and, in extremis, even disco mirror balls. I kid you not!

Do you have any memories that you'd like - and feel able to - share of a shaggin' wagon? How about photos (of the van!!!)? If so, please do so in the comments section below.

U M P H

(uppermiddlepetrolhead.blogspot.com.au.)

iPhone images.

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Random # 301: Nanna-Spec KE36 Corolla

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