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.