That’s the badge of a good life

By Marc McGowan
NARRE Warren South resident Don Borg is living the dream.
After growing up in a household that did not have enough money to own a car, Mr Borg, who is “56 going on 24”, can hardly believe his luck in owning several of them over the years.
“I never believed someone like me could own vehicles like this. I have pride in my own achievement,” he said.
“It’s not for anyone else; it’s not to show off. I’ve achieved something and I’m very happy with what I’ve got.”
Two of his cars stand out – his 1967 Ford Mustang Convertible and his 1948 Ford Sedan Hot Rod.
The Mustang was bought for $37,000 and he has not laid a finger on it since its purchase.
“That’s been left as is. I’m not allowed to touch that. My wife, Louise, loves it and it has remained in original condition,” Mr Borg, who owns Sherbrook Plaster, said.
It has been a completely different story with his Sedan, which he has spent more on than he acquired it for.
“I bought it for $12,000 and I’ve spent another 20 (thousand) on it on top,” Mr Borg said.
“It’s been completely refurbished, repainted, had the interior done, got new wheels, had the door handles taken off for keyless entry, had a TV/DVD player put in – one at the back and one at the front – and had the motor reone with more horsepower.”
It’s enough to make one think he is passionate about the fourwheeled variety.
“Passionate is a mild way of saying it – I’d say fanatical,” Mr Borg said.
“It’s probably to do with going without when I was younger. I’ve had this passion since I was 18, but I can only just afford it now.”
With his business settled and his children having moved out, it has allowed him to enjoy the lifestyle his carless father would have loved. It even has Mr Borg licking his lips, at the prospect of obtaining the automobile he has always lusted over – the 1969 Chevrolet Corvette.
“That would be nice; I’m always on the look. If a good one comes along at the right price, I’d jump on it,” he said.
“I’m at a good stage of life. I recommend it to others.”
>>> Have you got a gem in your garage? It can be a shiny new machine or a muchloved classic. Get your car into Me and My Car by phoning 5945 0666 or by contacting the Gazette at editorstarnewsgroup.com.au on email.