Dane Wilden, who leads the team responsible for Bay to Birdwood, shares his favourite things.
As manager of major events at the History Trust of South Australia, Dane Wilden leads the team responsible for the RAA Bay to Birdwood, which takes place on Sunday, October 18.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like?
It would start with a small sleep-in, followed by a light breakfast with lots of coffee. I’d then take a scenic drive through the Adelaide Hills, with a stop at one of the numerous local bakeries for lunch. If I can fit a nap somewhere in the afternoon, then that would be even better (but not while driving, obviously). I’d round it out with a nice dinner with friends and a glass or two of red.
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced?
I’m fortunate to work with some incredibly generous people, and I’m constantly reminded that kindness doesn’t always need to be a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s someone quietly stepping in to help when things get busy, offering their time without being asked, or going out of their way to make someone else’s day a little easier.
What is your favourite photograph?
Photos of me circa 1994 in my Dad’s 1969 MG B MkII, seated in a special booster seat he’d constructed to sit on the rear of the car. The MG only had two seats and no booster seat anchor points, so my Dad created this contraption to allow me to go on drives with him. What can I say, it was the 90s, laws weren’t as strict…
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be?
The Ken Done BMW M3 Art Car (1989).
Here’s $500. You have to spend it in the next hour – what are you buying?
A really good bottle of South Australian wine, a fabulous dinner somewhere I’ve been meaning to try, and whatever’s left on automotive books I probably don’t have room for.
A cafe or restaurant in SA you’d recommend?
Pony & Cole in Hindmarsh.
What was the last film or TV show you watched?
Wes Anderson’s The Phonecian Scheme (2025), starring Benicio del Toro and Mia Threapleton.
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Favourite way to unwind?
Going for a drive, obviously.
Last book you read?
The workshop repair manual for a Rover 3500 (don’t ask!)
Last song you listened to?
*Checks Spotify*… Time It Takes – Amaya Laucirica.
RAA Bay to Birdwood is Sunday October 18, where more than 1500 historic vehicles travel the 67-kilometre route from Barratt Reserve, West Beach, to the National Motor Museum in the heart of the Adelaide Hills.
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