I got my first car when I was 15 years old. It was a 1977 Ford TD Cortina that my mum bought for me to learn to drive on. It was mustard yellow, cost $500 and came with 12 months registration. I don't think my mum thought this (very thoughtful) gift would lead to a lifelong interest in cars, but now I look back on it, I can see this is where it started.
In 1999 I entered my third Cortina into Summernats, an annual car festival held every January in Australia, I was 19 years old. Summer in many parts of Australia is dry and hot, and loud cars, the smell of fuel, burning tyres and smoke doesn't appeal to everyone. But in these cars I see great works of art, the results of dedication, incredible craftsmanship and love.
I'm not sure which I like more sometimes, photography or cars. Regardless, the thought of summer always makes me think of bright, hot days and cruising in cars at night.
-Sean Davey (2019)
