SELLING - Cabinet of Curiosities
Among the South Australian motorcycling community, Colin Gitsham is a name that needs no introduction. From new bike sales to working in the accessory trade, Colin’s been involved in the industry for decades. More recently, Colin’s been commentating at Gillman Speedway, but his passion project for the past few years has been the ‘Cabinet of Curiosities’.
An Impressive Collection
Located in Mount Pleasant (approx. 1 hour north east of Adelaide), what was originally a service station, then an antiques store was transformed by Colin to house and display his collection of motorcycles, bike-related memorabilia and militaria acquired over decades. Motorcycle racing photos, posters and advertisements fill the walls, but what’s on the floor is more impressive.
Highlights amongst the road bikes include a 1963 Honda CB72, 1982 Yamaha RDLC 350, ’72 Honda CB450 K4, ’74 Kawasaki Z1B 900, ’84 GPz900R and a wire wheel ’81 Suzuki GSX1100S Katana. Race bikes in Colin’s collection include an ex-Mayfair Motors Suzuki TR500 ridden by John Warrian, a pair of '74 Yamaha TZ750As, a '72 TR3 350 and a TZ500G raced by Jim Scaysbrook at the Isle of Man TT in 1980.
Newer fare includes a 1998 Bimota SB6 Mk2 that Colin’s owned since new, a 2005 Honda VFR800 and an MV Agusta F4 minimoto that is certainly a “curiosity”! The space is also home to a supercharged 1968 Pontiac Firebird and a rare 1983 Ferrari Mondial QV – one of only eight RHD models in blue.
A Popular Attraction
Being close to Adelaide and only 10km away from the National Motor Museum at Birdwood, Mount Pleasant has become a popular stop for rallying motorcyclists and car clubs, as well as grey nomad couples and families touring the region. Cabinet of Curiosities occupies a prime position at 110 Melrose St (cnr. Herriot Rd) in the town. For a nominal entry fee, visitors can see all that the museum offers.
Colin says the growth in tourism, as evidenced by the newly renovated caravan park, means Mount Pleasant is a thriving little community, with two hotels, two bakeries and other shops. He adds that regular events in and around the area bring people from all over Australia.
On the Market
As much as he loves what he’s created with Cabinet of Curiosities, Colin’s planning a move overseas, so is looking to sell up. The asking price of AU$1.2M includes everything - the heritage-listed building and property (freehold title), 16 display bikes and related motorcycling memorabilia, the two classic cars and a militaria collection.
With no interest in breaking up the collection, Colin says that keeping the Cabinet going as is could be an ideal income supplement for the retired motorcycle enthusiast.
The premises includes accommodation, with a kitchen, bathroom and all appliances, so the new owner can live on site. For the tinkerer or bike restorer, there’s also a workshop with benches, tools, compressor and a new bike lift included.
There’s much more on offer than what’s mentioned here, so contact Colin on 0400 515 036 to discuss further.
