This year’s Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show in Bathurst was a smash hit, with over 170 rigs registered and many more turning up on Saturday to join in the fun.
Event organiser Haylie Osborne said the crowd was the biggest one she’s seen since the show started in 2016.
“It was a fantastic day,” she told Big Rigs. “We changed the layout of the event this year, moving the stage and the trade stalls to a central area, so it was quite different.
“We were a bit nervous about changing something that’s been running for so long but it went really well, everyone seemed really happy.
“And the weather was glorious, which was a bonus.”
Osborne said truckies came from far and wide to take part in the show, with some even travelling from as far as Tasmania.
Over 50 awards were handed out on the day, with the same rig as last year taking out Truck of the Show – Adrian Fenech’s immaculate 2013 K200.
“For him to win two years in a row, it’s just a testament to the truck,” said Osborne.
“The judge said that for a truck that works like it does, for Adrian to have it in that condition – you couldn’t pick anything else.”
After adding a heritage section to the show last year, the organisers decided to bring it back again this year, with the trophy for Best Restored going to a 1970 C-Line International brought along by Peter and Val Fitzpatrick.
Proceeds from the event will go to the 2bs and B- Rock Toy Appeal.
“Through multiple charities, they put together toys and hampers for local children who would otherwise not go without for Christmas,” said Osborne.
“We were happy to support such a great cause.”
For more great pictures and the full list of winners, pick up the next issue of Big Rigs, on shelves December 6.