By Alana Mitchelson
THE inaugural Pakenham Car Show invited car lovers to show off their “pride and joy”, attracting a varied display of classic and competition cars.
The event, held at Toomuc Reserve, had inspired car enthusiasts to travel from as far as Bacchus Marsh.
But event committee chairman Tony Murray said the weather had been unkind on Sunday 13 November and dramatically reduced attendance numbers.
He said that more than 90 cars were showcased when organisers had expected closer to 400.
“The rain cleared later in the day but people look out the window in the morning and see the rain, and make a decision on whether or not they’re going to come,” Mr Murray said.
“Some cars are open too, so understandably people are wary about them being damaged in wet weather.”
The committee faced other challenges in the lead-up to the event, when two advertisement banners featuring a race car graphic had been stolen; one from Toomuc Reserve on the Princes Highway and another near McGregor Road.
Eric Spokes had recently finished restoring his Chev pick-up.
He also displayed his FJ Race Car.
Meanwhile, Craig Rogers travelled from Bacchus Marsh to show his 200-plus mph Salt Lake Racer, which was a stand-out display.
The freshly purpose-built rail style car was speed limited to 200mph, but he hopes to do more than 250mph at the next outing in South Australia.
Syd Lewis’s 1948 Mark 4 Jaguar featured at the show in its first outing since he completely restored the vehicle himself.
“This stunning red and off-white Jag is one of the best you would see anywhere,” Mr Murray said.
“There were some impressive bikes – including one 400km/h Salt Racer and some interesting competition vehicles like the VW Clubman and the Tractor Pull units.
“Considering the conditions, we still managed to have some first class display cars and competition vehicles: hot rods, muscle cars, street cars, classics and vintage.
“Before the next event, we will have more time to chase up race car owners for them to show and promote their form of motor sport. We know there are at least 150 of them in the local area.”
The Race Car simulator proved to be quite popular and kept the younger attendees amused as they tried to keep the car on the race track.
Pakenham Rotary catered all day with hot food and cold drinks, while the Inner Wheel Club provided tea, coffee and scones with jam and cream.
The Pakenham Car Show will be an annual event.
For more information, visit rotarypakenham.com.au.
