With a jam-packed schedule of both private and public events planned, residents of Corowa and surrounding towns can look forward to a fun filled week of history and nostalgia.
Event organiser Jan Thompson spoke with the Free Press this week to share the upcoming programme.
“We have more than 200 vehicles registered already,” Ms Thompson said.
“And a number of new enthusiasts joining us this year from Western Australia, Alice Springs and Darwin.
“We even have Kingy from the Outback Truckers television series coming with his transport vehicle.”
As the largest gathering of ex-military vehicles in the southern hemisphere, the event has been recognised twice by the World Guiness Book of Records and received multiple awards throughout its 44-year history.
“It was just a small gathering all those years ago,” Ms Thompson said.
“I’ve been involved from the beginning and have only missed two events in 44 years.
“The event really grew after one of our members put together a full re-creation drive as part of the 1995 Australia Remembers celebrations.
“Since then we have become the largest ex-military vehicle event in the Southern Hemisphere.”
Arriving in Corowa on March 11, the enthusiasts will visit community groups and organisations in the region but will also provide plenty of opportunities for residents to enjoy getting up close and personal with the vehicles and their owners.
A static display will be held at Club Corowa on Thursday, March 14, from 11am to 2pm before the vehicles will join the Chrysler 100th Anniversary Tour at Rowers Park from 4pm.
The famous annual parade will take place on Saturday, March 16, concluding with a vehicle display and swap meet at the Corowa Showgrounds.
“As always, we encourage local residents and visitors to line the streets to cheer on our enthusiasts as they show off their vehicles during the parade and invite them to join us at the showgrounds for to meet and talk with the owners afterwards,” Ms Thompson said.
“Anybody that might have a special interest in the history of army uniforms over the past hundred years may like to attend a guest speaker event at Club Corowa on Friday evening.
“And, of course, we always welcome volunteers to assist us in making the event run smoothly for the week,” Ms Thompson said.
With so many new attendees and the event theme being Year of the Blitz, Corowa can look forward to seeing a number of new historic vehicles getting about town.
For a full programme or to volunteer during the event please contact Jan Thompson on 0412 078 096 or via email jan.thompson1@optusnet.com.au
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