Atherton Car, Bike & Swap Meet 2024: Classic Restos - Series 56

Fletch heads to Far North Queensland for the Atherton Car, Bike & Swap Meet, which is now in its 12th year and continues to attract a growing number of diverse vehicles.

Fletch watches the parade of vehicles as they arrive and then ventures out amongst the owners to get some insights into the vehicles and their history. First up is Andrew with his 1979 CM Valiant; apart from a sympathetic closed-door paint restoration five years ago, it remains in its original condition. The 5.2 litre 318 auto has clocked up 230,000 km, and David still enjoys driving it today.

Next is David with his 1968 HK Monaro, not the popular 327 V8 but an 186 S 6-cylinder version that he picked up for just $1,500 in 1979. The car presents very well in its original condition with matching numbers. Fletch notes that it's not all about performance and that this car is a distinctive model that is popular in any configuration.

Fletch also catches up with old friend Mouse and admires the 70s-style Chopper he designed and built himself. The project began three years ago and took a concerted effort over the last six months to complete. The bike has some bespoke features that raise some eyebrows, but that's what custom choppers are all about. 

Another bike at the event is Al's '75 900cc 4-cylinder Kawasaki, which Al acquired 20 years ago and restored a decade later. These bikes were once regarded as the 'King of the Road' and are considered timeless classics. Al enjoys restoring bikes and finds great satisfaction in doing all the work himself.

Lee presents a rarely seen 1956 Ford Crown Victoria Fairlane that he acquired 30 years ago and used as an everyday cruiser. It now boasts a 315 V8 Cleveland engine. He still has the original wide block engine in case he wants to rebuild it later.

Finally, Greg, showcases his '72 Kenworth 400 (Build 204) from Bayswater, Victoria, destined for the scrap yard before he rescued it. He has been tinkering with it for the last 4-5 years, and it's more a preservation effort rather than a restoration. The truck's original power unit was a 250 Cummings, which has been replaced by a 350 Cummings with 15-speed overdrive.

The event features an excellent turnout of bikes, cars, and trucks, making it a must-visit for anyone in Far North Queensland.