Stratton and Emily Goodall were disappointed in the lack of heritage vehicle shows in Western Australia – but instead of just complaining about it, they started their own.
This year was the fourth iteration of the Sunnydale Vintage Day in the thriving country town of Kojonup, and the Goodhalls said it went off without a hitch.
Trucks and tractors travelled from all over WA and as far afield as Victoria to join in the fun.
“We think around 300 people came through the gates on the day, plus the exhibitors,” said Stratton.
“There was a sheep boat in Perth so a lot of the local livestock trucks were working and couldn’t come along, which was a bit upsetting.
“But we still had some great local prime movers and vintage trucks – everything from Model Ts to a 1926 International.”
While there wasn’t any official judges’ panel on the day, the People’s Choice award went to Nathan Miotti from Miotti’s Transport for his pristine Kenworth T909.
Stratton said there was plenty to entertain young and old on the day, from helicopters to Clydesdale horses to face painting.
“We had earthmoving displays, blade shearing, a blacksmith display, a tractor pull competition and stationary engines.
“The kids loved it – they were allowed to climb all over the machinery, and we had a petting zoo for orphaned animals.
“Then we had a massive feed in the evening with meat supplied by Borrello Beef, one of the local farmers.”
Stratton and Emily said they decided to start the show as a way to honour transport heritage and bring the community together.
“We saw the way they look after their heritage over East, and there wasn’t much in WA,” Emily said.
“Any money we make goes back into the show and our local area.”
They thanked their team of volunteers for all their hard work each year.
“The small group of volunteers who bring the event together every year work long weeks leading up to the event, all for the shared passion of keeping the heritage alive,” Emily added.
“We can’t wait to come back next year.”