Buloke Collectable Vehicle Club annual Show 'n' Shine event brought together car enthusiasts from all over the region this past weekend, transforming the George Cartwright oval in Birchip into a dazzling display of automotive craftsmanship.
With almost 150 vehicles on display, the event celebrated everything from classic cars to modern muscle, trucks and motorbikes, and it drew a diverse crowd of spectators and participants alike.
Vehicle enthusiasts were treated to a vibrant atmosphere filled with the roar of engines and the glint of polished chrome. Vintage cars from the early 1900s sat proudly alongside sleek contemporary models, each showcasing unique designs and meticulous attention to detail.
The fraternity of vehicle lovers relished in the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share their passion for all things automotive.
The crowd wandered around chatting to the owners, sharing stories of the vehicle’s history, looking “under the bonnet” and admiring the true beauty of the vehicles.
“This event just keeps getting better,” said president Matt Barr. “It’s not just about the cars; it’s about the community. Everyone here shares a love for these amazing machines and they all enjoy getting together to have a chat.”
Fifteen awards were presented by president Matt Barr thanks to the generous support of the local sponsors.
Best original unrestored (sponsored by R & J Batteries) 1974 Chrysler by Chrylser, Trevor Gertze.
Best pre ’40s (sponsored by Geoffrey’s Menswear) 1929 Oakland 85 Roadster, Brett and Annette Gebert.
Best pre ’70s (sponsored by Birchip Hardware) 1950 Jaguar Mark V, Geoff Taylor.
Best ’70s-2000s (sponsored by So Good Seed Cleaning) 1975 Chrysler Valliant, Andy McClelland.
Best Modern post 2000 (sponsored by Birchip Motel & Caravan Park) 2007 Ford BF XR8, Randall Browning.
Best Ladies’ Car (sponsored by CMA’s Creation), 2003 Commodore SS Wagon, Heather Driscoll.
Best Convertible (sponsored by Mallee Steel), 1929 Oakland 85 Roadster, Brett and Annette Gebert.
Best Modified (sponsored by R. L. Bales), Holden Monaro, Tim Purtell.
Best light Commercial (sponsored by Greg’s Digging), 1972 Ford Falcon Utility, Gary Smith.
Best pre ’80s Truck (sponsored by Gary Quirk Haulage) Ford Jailbar 1942, Craig Abby.
Best post ’80s Truck (sponsored by Noonan Tyres) Kenworth, Darren Taylor.
People’s choice (sponsored in memory of Ross Atkinson) FX Holden, Scott Campbell.
President’s Choice (sponsored by Birchip Automotive) FX Utility, Nigel Welsh.
Best Bike (sponsored by Birchip Hotel) Harley Break Out, Stephen Polack.
Best Modified Bike (sponsored by Greg Crowe), Harley Davidson Street Glide owned by Greg Crowe.
Best Unrestored Bike (sponsored by Tim Ward Remedial Massage), Triumph TT600, John Liersch.
Best Ladies’ Bike (sponsored by Birchip Auto Electrical), Kawasaki Ninja, Kelsey Atkinson.
The day wasn’t just about the vehicles, it was about the whole family having fun; there was music, food trucks, coffee vans, market stalls, entertainment for the children and a monster raffle with prizes donated by local businesses.
The lucky driver draw was won by Scott Campbell and the ten draws in the raffle, with a great array of prizes donated by a range of generous sponsors from Birchip, Swan Hill, Horsham and Bendigo were won by: Liz Neil (1st), Rosalie Gould (2nd), Maureen Trollope (3rd), Cherie Scott (4th), Lauren Baker (5th), Barb McLean (6th), Gail Sharp (7th), Cathy Boyle (8th), Heath Hogan (9th) and Marelene Ryan (10th).
Matt Barr, expressed his thanks to all the owners who showed their vehicles, the swap site and market stall holders, and everyone who attended to make the day such a success.
He said: “The day has been fantastic thanks to all of you, and it wouldn’t have been possible without our major sponsors, R & J Batteries and Greg’s Digging, our hard working committee and our executive members, Lynne Blair and Nakita Scott, who contributed so much time and effort into ensuring the day ran smoothly and was lots of fun for everyone.”