Years ago, Birregurra’s annual music festival is what drew crowds into the small Victorian town. It kept local businesses thriving and the economy in check.
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Building on its success, the Birregurra Motor Show was introduced at a different time of year to keep the town humming along, and it too has proven popular.
On February 15 this year the latest instalment of the event was held, with money raised on the day to be funnelled into local causes, such as scholarships for the town’s school, donations to the Men’s Shed and even the restoration of a rare 1927 bus that used to do the Birregurra Lawn Run back in the 30s.
The Truck Show idea all started 15 years ago when community members were itching to run their own show but faced challenges.
The pandemic threw a wrench into the gears, putting grander plans for the festivities on hold, but last year organisers were finally able to hit the accelerator, and the event took off.
“Unfortunately, we were a bit down on numbers this year as rain came down on us, but it was still a good turnout,” says event president Michael Barry.
“There were different sorts of vehicles for everyone to have a look at, with around 250 exhibits.
“At least 15 trucks came around the main street and they all looked so fantastic.”
Among the display of shiny chrome and polished bodies, certain trucks made a standout appearance.
They lined the main street in a stunning arc, transforming the town into a temporary motor paradise.
Michael was tasked with selecting the Best in Show vehicle and he says the most exciting part of his day was narrowing down who earned the top spot.
“There were so many nice vehicles there, it was a hard decision, but I saw this Ford Roadster, and the finish on the inside topped it off for me,” he says.
The event also offered a chance to reward the best of the best trucks, with 22 trophies up for grabs.
A pre-1960s award saw a vintage 1925 Ford owned by Bob Ethell take the gong, while the Best Truck, post 1960, went to Stephen Robins and with his 1978 Atkinson.
The Falcon GT Club Geelong came first with the Best Club/Group/Team Display.
But this wasn’t just a showcase of vehicles, it was the culmination of nine months of planning and organising, juggling road closures and hefty costs.
“It cost nearly $5,500 just to shut the road down for the day,” Michael laughs. “But because it’s in the main street, it helps the traders.”
“We run it for the town anyway, so if we make a small profit, that doesn’t really matter to us.”
The Birregurra Motor Show provided a chance to show off the town’s charm and an opportunity to support causes that matter. The day has been hailed as a success, despite its weather challenges, with the crowds happy to hear screeching tires and smell the lingering nostalgic scent of petrol and diesel as they left for the day.
Next year? It’s set to be bigger, better and hopefully, dry.
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