WHEN Mooroopna local, Andrew Beks purchased the rusty and stripped shell of a Volkswagon 1964 Split Doka Kombi Van, he knew his work was well cut out for him.
Excited by the prospect of a new project and with the confidence of having already successfully completed two rebuilds of 1967 Split Vans, Andrew was prepared for the myriad issues which would present themselves, just like they always do.
However, this third project was quite unique from the others, not least because of the different body shape of this Doka Kombi, but due to the severe disrepair he had received the van in. Purchased in Ballarat, the bottom of the rusty shell had rotted away by 300mm and serious panel work was required throughout. In the process of assembly, further issues arose when ordered parts arrived either incomplete or missing. But just like completing an enormous 3D jigsaw puzzle, patience always pays off, and Andrew slowly worked through each issue.
A landscape gardener by trade, Andrew taught himself everything he needed to know about rebuilding cars and the results are incredibly impressive given it’s merely a hobby he tends to in evenings and on weekends.
The obsession for Kombi vans arose from a similar personal appeal for the beachside lifestyle. Though located several hours from the nearest beach appropriate for a van like this, Andrew and his family have crafted an oasis in the outer farmlands of Mooroopna. Seated in one of Andrew’s prized Kombis in his beach-themed showroom, it’s not too hard to imagine the whisper of waves crashing upon the shoreline.
When asked about the difficulties this particular rebuild fronted, Andrew explained, “It was a tedious grind that took about two years overall to complete, but I really enjoyed the challenge and I think the results speak for themselves.
“I’m grateful for the help of my wife, Leah, who assisted with the interior door cards covering. Also a massive thanks to Mick Falla from Falla’s Upholstery to trim the rest of the bus in matching lime and cream vinyl.”
Never satisfied with sitting still, Andrew has already started work on his next project, rebuilding a top of the range 1967 Samba Kombi Van. If lucky, you’ll see Andrew proudly driving around in one of his head-turning Kombi Vans on the weekends.
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