By Lucy Waldron
Vintage car enthusiasts from across Australia descended upon Stanthorpe for a historic gathering organised by the Vintage Chevrolet Association Queensland.
Celebrating its 55th anniversary, the association has a rich history of commemorating its inception with elaborate events held every five years, showcasing the timeless charm of vintage Chevrolet cars.
Chris Mitchelson, president of Vintage Chevrolet Association Queensland, reminisced about the association’s journey over the past three decades.
“For the last 30-odd years, we’ve been celebrating our anniversary around about the date of our first meeting,“ Mr Mitchelson said.
He recounted the association’s travels to various regional hubs, including Stanthorpe 25 years ago, highlighting the allure of exploring different landscapes while indulging in a shared passion for vintage automobiles.
With approximately 100 members currently, the association places a strong emphasis on fostering camaraderie and renewing friendships through its periodic gatherings.
“Every five years, it’s an opportunity to reconnect and share our love for vintage Chevrolets,“ Mr Mitchelson said.
Stanthorpe, renowned for its picturesque scenery and warm hospitality, serves as an ideal host for such gatherings, according to Mitchelson.
Garry Ellis, Secretary to Stanthorpe Historic Vehicle and Motor Group, highlighted the economic significance of events like these for the region.
“With nearly 100 people at the show last week and them all spending money on fuel, food and accommodation, that is ultimately a large amount of money brought in,” Mr Ellis said.
In addition to the economic benefits, the event serves as a platform to showcase Stanthorpe’s cultural and natural attractions to a diverse audience.
“The Granite Belt has become a tourist hub but for car enthusiasts, it’s the scenic roads that are the draw factor on top of everything the region has to offer,“ Mr Ellis said.
Since the last time, the association visited Stanthorpe 25 years ago a lot has changed but two things stayed the same, the comradery of the members and David Dunn’s involvement in the club.
Ever proud of his car that started its working life in Glen Aplin at the hands of David’s father Harry.
The 1926 Chevrolet Utility worked on a vineyard, helped build a house and carried whatever needed to be put in its tray.
“But beneath that pristine exterior lurks a basic character that was forged through six decades of toil and fun, tears and laughter, romance and pain,” David wrote in his article in the Stanthorpe Boarder Post 1999.
After a long life being passed down through its years, and driven all along the roads of the granite belt, David is overjoyed to put it and its long history on display for everyone to enjoy and remember.
Who knows, maybe the next time the group meet in Stanthorpe again, the “Old Chev“ will still be telling its long history to everyone who will listen.
