Atherton Car, Bike & Swap Meet 2023: Classic Restos - Series 52
Fletch has returned to Atherton in Far North Queensland to attend what has become the biggest event in the region. The Atherton Car, Bike & Swap Meet 2023, organized by Don Blanford of Atherton Auto Wreckers, has grown from 60 cars to approximately 400 vehicles and 200 motorcycles. Fletch roams the field, searching for interesting cars, bikes, and their owners' stories.
Fletch's attention was first drawn to a 1964 EH Holden S4, one of Holdens best-selling models. Only 126 of the S4 models were built for track use. Ron, the owner, purchased the Group N race car from Tasmania and restored it to its current condition with a few modifications, including a V6 engine from a police interceptor car. This car still looks great and turns heads today.
Another interesting vehicle that Fletch discovered is a 1982 XC Ford Fairmont GXL. This fully-optioned car was owned by one family for 25 years, spending 16 years on blocks before the current owner, Grant, got it back on the road from his brother. In 1982, these models were fully optioned with radial tuned suspension, power steering, 4-wheel disc brakes, and much more, which we take for granted today.
Event organiser Don Blanford also has a special collection of cars, which includes his first Mopar, a 1974 Plymouth Road Runner, and a 70's Ford Mustang Mach 1 with 351 Cleveland engine. Don's former employee also has an interesting vehicle, an XB Ford Ute, parked for 25 years before being restored.
Fletch also met Sarah, who was promoting the group 'Pin-up for Cairns' with her 2021 Gazoo Racing GR Yaris. The group combines cars, music, and people to create a Rockabilly Car Culture to support mental health in the community.
Other noteworthy vehicles include a 1949 James Comet Motorcycle, a restoration project by the Highland Restorers Club, Joe's 1925 Douglas British motorcycle that he considers a piece of art, and Gavin's 1958 FC Holden Ute, a beautiful example of a 2-tone finish, which includes an original Victor motor mower in the rear.
Finally, there is former Headmaster Tony’s 1967 VC Valiant Wayfarer V8 Ute, which he purchased for $100 from the original owner. It was a ten-year project that he restored entirely to his own specifications. Tony has created a complete photo history of the entire build process, and the result is a 50-year-old car that he says drives like a brand-new car today.
Comments
GregsLandy1985
Last day for voting .. Please vote for my little Gemini Van. Thank you if you have already voted
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Thank you & much appreciated.
GregsLandy1985
Just a huge 'Thank You' for return voting for my little Gemini Panel Van in the Australian category.
If you haven't voted yet I would really appreciate it greatly.
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Thank you & much appreciated.
briony19365
Absolutely love your ride! Got my vote. If you have a moment could you please vote for my Eureka.
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Dn2Fly
Awesome bike! You get my vote!
Would appreciate it if you could please vote for my wagon in the Australian section too.
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
GregsLandy1985
Hello I gave you my vote. Could you please vote for my Gemini in the Australian category.
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Thank you.. Good luck
HiPo63
Did a Vote for your ride .. Good Luck
appreciate a vote for mine 👍in the American section
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Ziggy355
Nice bike just gave it a vote could you please give my vehicle a vote thanks and good luck https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
66Thunderbird
Voted for your😍 very cool 😎Harley
can you Please give my 1959 Edsel Ranger a vote
🍀Good Luck🍀 Cheers Lee-Anne👍👍
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
LethlZ
Awesome Harley! Looks so unique and love the wheels 😍👏 VOTED for you! Would greatly appreciate a vote for mine in the ASIAN Category if you have a second :)
https://www.shannons.com.au/club/show-n-...
Cheers & best of luck!!