When you head to a classic car show, you should always expect the unexpected – and 2025’s Motorfest at John Wright Park delivered that in spades!! Organised by the passionate crew at the Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club, the event had all the vintage metal and chrome you could wish for. But it was something entirely new that stole the show: Rocker Cover Racing.
If you haven’t heard of it before, you’re not alone. While this quirky competition has been around in the US since 1987 – where the first Valve Cover Nationals drew 53 eager entrants – it’s only just beginning to rev up here in Australia. And judging by the smiles, cheers, and laughter, it’s here to stay.
About a dozen homemade racers lined up at the start gate, each one painted and designed to stand out. The battle down the track was fierce, with gravity doing most of the work as these creative machines hurtled towards the finish. In a nail-biting final, a Ford Falcon 6-cylinder rocker cover took on a Valiant slant-6 – and it was the Valiant that edged out the win by the slimmest of margins
The crowd loved it. In fact, it was such a hit that by day’s end, car clubs were already throwing down challenges, and GLHAC had fielded requests to hire out their track. Could we see Rocker Cover Racing added to the Triumph Nationals next year? It’s definitely on the cards!
And the fun doesn’t stop there. For 2026, GLHAC plans to expand the racing action even further – including Tonka Racing for the younger enthusiasts. Imagine the joy on the kids? faces as their trucks thunder down the track!
A highly detailed example of what can be created with a little imagination!
At the February meeting of the Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club, members voted by an overwhelming majority to adopt a new club logo – a decision that reflects both strong unity and shared enthusiasm for the club’s future. We are proud to officially present this new logo to our members and the wider community. It stands as a fresh symbol of who we are as a club, while continuing to honour the history and passion that have always defined GLHAC.
The discussion surrounding the change showed just how much pride members take in the club’s identity. The new logo was embraced as a thoughtful evolution rather than a departure – a design that feels familiar, yet modern and forward-looking. The strength of the vote demonstrated clear confidence that the logo represents the spirit of the Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club: camaraderie, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for historic vehicles. It is a visual statement of unity and shared purpose.
Following that decision, members also voted – again by an equally overwhelming majority – to produce the new logo as a brass grille badge. This choice connects beautifully with the traditions of motoring heritage. A brass badge is not only durable and timeless, but also a mark of pride that members can display on their vehicles. It’s a fitting tribute to the classic automobiles we celebrate and preserve, and it ensures the logo becomes more than an image – it becomes a physical emblem of membership and belonging.
Production of the grille badge is moving ahead quickly, with orders already being placed and strong early interest from members. The prototype on display offers an exciting preview of the final product, showcasing the logo in a detailed, high-quality brass finish that captures both character and craftsmanship. Seeing the design brought to life in metal has only increased excitement, confirming that the badge will be a standout feature on any vehicle.
This new logo and grille badge mark an important milestone for the Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club. They represent a collective decision made with enthusiasm and confidence, and they signal a club that respects its roots while continuing to grow and evolve. We look forward to seeing the badges proudly displayed and the logo recognised throughout the community as a symbol of our shared passion for historic motoring.
In its July 2024 edition of the Drive Lite Historic and Classic Vehicle Schemes (HVS) and (CVS) Transport for NSW has updated information on club number plates.
New number plates available
Thanks to industry feedback, collaboration, consultation and testing, a new number plate for classic vehicles is now available. The plate size and design better fits most classic vehicles and enhances authenticity by differentiating classic vehicles from others on the road.
The new number plate replaces the Conditional number plate traditionally issued to vehicles in the Scheme.
It will be automatically issued to new Classic Vehicle Scheme registrations and available to be purchased, at the time of registration renewal, for a one-off fee of $55, for vehicles in the Scheme
Terry Thompson OAM, President of the Council of Motor Clubs said: “The new plates are a demonstration of the collaborative relationship between industry and Transport for NSW.
“They represent a customer-centric solution to our needs and help to differentiate classic vehicles from other conditionally-registered vehicles.”
With a combination of three classic car clubs, Taree Antique and Classic Car Club, Taree Historic Motor Club, and ourselves, yielded an excellent turnout of cars on display at Wylie Breckenridge Park on Australia Day. Our club was represented by 14 cars. Rocker Cover Racing on tap was enjoyed by a number of members, including a youngster who entered his toy Tonka truck, winning most races!
Hilton brought along the trusty Weber barbeque for members who fancied a snag or two for lunch.
The weather was pleasant, with the sun coming out later in the morning, and a steady breeze kept the temperature just about perfect.
Head over to the club website and/or Facebook page to see the full complement of photos, and visit our YouTube channel to watch a video from the day.
On behalf of the Committee and every Member of the Great Lakes Historic Automobile Club, we extend to you and your loved ones our warmest wishes for a truly Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year as we welcome 2026.
As the year draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect with gratitude on the friendships formed, the memories created, and the shared passion that brings us together. Our club is more than a gathering of remarkable historic automobiles—it is a community built on mutual respect, generosity, and a love for preserving motoring heritage. Each event, conversation, and journey we share adds to the spirit that makes our club so special.
Looking ahead to the new year, we are excited for the opportunities it will bring: more miles on the road, more stories to tell, and more moments of camaraderie to enjoy. We sincerely look forward to seeing you all again in the year ahead, renewing old friendships and welcoming new ones, as we continue another wonderful year of fellowship, laughter, and, of course, the joy of enjoying our cars together.
May the festive season bring you peace, warmth, and happiness, and may 2026 be filled with good health, safe travels, and many memorable drives.
Remember to check out all the Christmas photos in the club photo galleries, both here on the website, and on our Facebook page.
