General News
14 January, 2019
Car show success
VIDEO FOOTAGE: The second annual Camperdown Car and Bike Show held over the weekend has been labelled a “huge success”, cementing it as a permanent fixture for the town.
THE second annual Camperdown Car and Bike Show held over the weekend has been labelled a “huge success”, cementing it as a permanent fixture for the town.
Committee member Andrew Searle said 450 cars and 60 bikes had turned out for the event, well up on last year’s figures of 280 and 20 respectively.
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“We were looking closely at this year’s level of support to determine whether or not to continue with the event and after such a great turn-out over the weekend, we’re thrilled to say it’s here to stay,” he said.
“It ticked all the boxes – a great mix of cars and bikes, a really friendly and relaxed atmosphere and a great venue.
“We’re absolutely confident that word will spread widely about how good the show is and the event will continue to grow year on year.”
The show saw cars of all eras, makes and models line both sides of Manifold Street and Little Manifold Street.
Mr Searle said at least 2500 spectators went through the gates, although the figure could be a lot higher.
“We’ve estimated the crowd by the number of people who paid to get in, but we also know that a lot of people entered without paying,” he said.
“There was a steady stream of people coming in all for the entire day, so we think our figure is on the conservative side.
“As always, the weather was a huge factor and we couldn’t have asked for a better day.”
Mr Searle said visitor comments praised the variety of cars on display, Camperdown’s avenue as the perfect setting and the friendly, relaxed atmosphere which prevailed.
“People loved how they could wander at their leisure along the two roads to view the cars and bikes without worrying about traffic,” he said.
“They were also appreciative of the backdrop all the heritage buildings provided and the welcome shade of the avenue and shop verandahs.
“It was also nice to see so many people having picnics and resting in the avenue, just enjoying the atmosphere.”
Shop owners were also thanked for remaining open throughout the Saturday ‘Show ‘n’ Shine’, giving visitors an extra reason for visiting.
Among a list of about 30 award winners on the day (in five classes of cars and two classes of bikes), the overall Promoters Award went to a modified silver 1968 Ford Falcon sedan with Center Line mag wheels.
Mr Searle said the vehicle had been modified to 1000 horsepower, but still had the engine fully enclosed under the bonnet.
“It ticked all the boxes – it had a really clean exterior and engine bay with the added feature of the modified engine,” he said.
Test rides with the latest model bikes from Geelong Harley Davidson were fully booked and signalled a keenness to return.
Live bands in the avenue and the town’s two hotels also added to the day’s atmosphere.
Sunday saw a contingent of 25 vehicles head to Boggy Creek as part of the show’s organised cruise event, which completed the weekend’s activities.
Mr Searle thanks the Camperdown community and the Corangamite Shire Council for their support.
“The event wouldn’t be possible without that support, we were particularly grateful,” he said.
“We know now that we’re on a winning formula and that we have the perfect venue.
“This event will continue to grow and hopefully it brings welcome benefits to Camperdown itself.”