LOCALS and visitors headed to Hawks Nest in droves last weekend to check out the vintage, veteran and classic vehicles on display at this year's Motorfest.
This was the fourth annual Motorfest staged by Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest Motor Club Inc and was held at Myall Sports Oval, Hawks Nest, on Saturday, March 11.
"We had acceptances from 200 vehicles to appear on the day," said President of the Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest Motor Club, John Sharp.
"Last year we had over 1000 people but I think there were even more here this year," he said.
Selected motor clubs from Newcastle, the Hunter Region, Sydney Basin, Central Coast, Taree, Nelson Bay, Dungog, Maitland, Forster/Tuncurry and Port Macquarie attended.
This wonderful and interesting day, where enthusiasts display their treasured veteran, vintage and classic vehicles and motorcycles in pristine condition, has become a popular event.
"Amongst other vehicles, included in the display was the oldest VW in Australia - 1949, and the oldest Austin 7 - 1926," said Juergen Seil from the Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest Motor Club.
"Our local Club also put many of their vehicles on display, in total we have 40 members and 70 cars in our Club," he said.
The program started at 10am and went through to 2.30pm, with approximately 250 vehicles and motorcycles on display.
A special attraction this year was a large NRMA semitrailer display unit, vintage patrol van and motorcycle for public inspection.
Additionally, the local Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance Service, Surf Life Saving Club and Community Bus attended with their latest vehicles and interesting displays.
"There was also a special display of hot rods," added Mr Seil.
Red Cross ladies served coffee, tea and homemade cakes, and the Lions Club once again catered for hungry visitors by running a barbeque.
Visitors were entertained with some special attractions and popular country style music thanks to Uwe Seil.
The local Motor Club had an information stand, Great Lakes Tourism set up a rest tent, there was a stall selling model cars, T-shirts and accessories, a torque converter stand and a stand that manufactured differentials.
Thanks to the generous support of local sponsors and their donations, the Chocolate Wheel operated all day, offering the chance to win one of the many interesting prizes.
Mr Seil reported that they had great enthusiasm from all local businesses in regards to the event.
"Last year we had 40 sponsors and this year we had 88 local sponsors which is great," he said.
Motorfest 2006 was a Community Aid Event Day in support of the Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest Surf Life Saving Club and the Tea Gardens Ambulance Service of NSW.
Handouts were given to entrants as they drove through the gate which included a display card, a promotion kit assembled by Great Lakes Tourism promoting the local area, a history on automobiles - "The Wheel of Time", a Certificate of Appreciation, a promotion kit from "Meguiars" car polish company and an NRMA cap.
"People also received a voting form and there were great prizes for the winners," explained Mr Seil.
"The trophies were made out of old motorcycle and motorcar parts by club member, Norm Needham," he said.
To enter your car on display at the event cost $10, your bike - $5 and if you just wanted to come and view the many varied displays is was a $1 donation.
All the money raised at the event will be going to the Hawks Nest Surf Life Saving Club and NSW Ambulance -Tea Gardens.
Email a friend