At 94, Alan’s shed is more than just a workshop - it’s a treasure trove of stories, vintage motorcycles, and a lifetime of careful craftsmanship. His backyard shed in suburban Adelaide is more than just a workshop - it’s a time capsule filled with vintage motorcycles, carefully restored engines, and stories that span nearly a century. It’s a place where history comes alive, told through tools and photographs.

Alan has been a Meals on Wheels customer for five years, and he’s quick to express his appreciation for the service.

“I’m chuffed with Meals on Wheels - they keep me watered and fed”

Alan, born and raised in a country town, learned early on that you had to be handy and hardworking to get by. His family relied on a motorbike for everything - from running errands to visiting friends “not many people had cars back then”. This sparked a lifelong fascination with motorcycles and mechanics.

He attended Thebarton Boys Technical High School (now College), where his interest in hands-on work and design began. During this time, he was affectionately nicknamed “Sec” because he was secretary of so many clubs in high school.

Alan went on to become a skilled toolmaker and design draftsman, carving out a career that married precision with passion. But it was his hobby of restoring and riding vintage motorcycles that truly captured his heart.

Over the decades, he lovingly rebuilt bikes of all kinds - from British classics like the Norton Model 88, one of the last Nortons made before the brand changed in the UK, to BMWs, local Tilbrook with sidecar, and even dirt bikes with his son.

His enthusiasm wasn’t just personal - it became a community calling. Alan served for over 26 years with Motorcycling SA, holding positions as Treasurer, Secretary, and ultimately President. He also represented the sport as a delegate for more than 20 years, earning respect both nationally and internationally for his leadership and dedication.

In recognition of his outstanding service, Alan was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 1992 announced by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. In 2000, he received the Australian Sports Medal, which was presented during Prime Minister John Howard’s term.

Alan attributes his long and happy life to keeping busy, staying curious - and also to having a loving and caring wife by his side for 68 years.

But behind all the accolades is a devoted family man. Alan speaks with heartfelt affection about his beloved late wife, Val.

“Best thing that ever happened to me,” he says simply.

“I couldn’t afford a girlfriend for a long time,” he said. “Back then, a man had to pay for everything - it was expensive!” He finally met Val when he was 21. Together, they raised a family, explored NZ, Europe twice, USA, Canada, and even did a memorable trip around Australia in a caravan with other couples.

Alan and his wife Val also spent 25 years volunteering together with Neighbourhood Watch. Val served as District Coordinator, and Alan—as ever—took on the role of Secretary.

Family, friends, and community have always grounded Alan. Even after a loss of confidence forced him to stop getting on the bike, he never stopped restoring them.  Today, he still enjoys giving visitors - including select Meals on Wheels volunteers - a personal tour of his shed and collection.

“It’s a real pat on the head when people come out and listen, it doesn’t happen very often these days.”

Despite a lifetime of achievement, Alan remains humble. He’s always been the sort to help a mate, never asking for money, simply enjoying the satisfaction of sharing his knowledge and lending a hand.

So, what’s the secret to his long and happy life? “Keep busy, stay curious, and have something to care about,” Alan says. “And I suppose it also helped that my father made me promise never to drink or smoke - and I never have.”

Thanks to Meals on Wheels, Alan has the support he needs to keep doing just that - living at home, tinkering in his shed, and sharing his passion with others.