Master distiller Cameron Syme is living the dream in a classic Porsche Boxster 987.2

Cameron Syme, master distiller at Great Southern Distilling Co, drives a classic 2009 Porsche Boxster 987.2 that’s fulfilled his dream of owning a roadster convertible and makes for spirited driving through the forests and the Swan Valley, where he’s recently opened Limeburners & Giniversity in the Valley for cellar-door tastings of whisky and gin, plus casual, gluten-free meals.

What are you driving and why did you buy it?

I am driving a 2009 987.2 Porsche Boxster. I bought it because I always wanted a roadster convertible, ever since I was a kid. The series 2 987 is a classic. It is engineered to Porsche’s exacting race-ready standards and isn’t pretending to be anything it’s not. It’s a 2.9-litre straight six with 255hp. It does 0-100km in a nice 5.8 seconds. The transverse engine sits right behind the driver and passenger and has a lovely purr when accelerating. It corners very well and makes my trips through the forests a bit more entertaining.

What’s your dream car?

One that doesn’t harm the environment. I remain hopeful.

What was your first car?

In the late 80s, my Dad bought me a 1978 Datsun 280 B, burnt orange with a brown vinyl roof. So bad it had to be cool. Not. For a country kid it meant wheels and freedom, so I loved it. The first car I bought myself was in 1994 and it was a 1978 Hillman Hunter — for $120. That car was so cool, it had attitude of its own and was a noticeable character.

What annoys you most about other motorists?

Perhaps, the fact they exist? There’s a reason I live in the mountain country. But probably, actually, failure to use a roundabout or merge properly. That’s so frustrating.

What’s your favourite driving music?

Each week I travel between Albany, Porongurup, the Swan Valley and Margaret River. So, I spend many hours driving around the amazing South West. For all that time you need variety. I listen to an eclectic variety of music and podcasts. Music, my favourite type, is definitely up loud with some decent thumping base. That helps to keep the kangaroos away.