James ‘Jim’ Smith
Jess WILSON (Kew) (09:45): I rise to mark the passing of Balwyn local and friend James Smith. James and his wife Joan lived together in Balwyn North and then in Balwyn for over 60 years. Jim was well known and respected in our community. He initially worked in his family’s dry-cleaning and laundry business, but his passion was for racing cars. Jim famously took ownership of Peter Manton Motors from Peter Manton himself off the back of a bet at Warwick Farm racetrack in Sydney. He bet Peter that if he won the race Peter would sell him the company, and the rest they say is history. Jim owned and operated Manton Motors from 1969 to its sale in 1990. He operated a range of other franchises bringing European cars to the Australian market, such as Volvo, Alfa Romeo and Lamborghini. He can lay claim to bringing the very first Bugatti to Australia. I confess I know very little of the motor industry, but Jim’s passion, innovation and entrepreneurship were clear to all who knew him and sparked joy for thousands of Victorians and Australians who have, thanks to Jim, been able to call one of these exotic cars their own. Jim was truly a great bloke and much loved by his family and friends. On a personal note, I was deeply grateful to have his and Joan’s support during my election campaign for the seat of Kew and to call them both friends for many years. Vale, Jim. You will be missed, and my love to your gorgeous wife Joan.