From classic Greyhound buses to 1920’s motors, the Launceston Motor Show had plenty on display.
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An initiative partly to fundraise in hopes of restoring the Royal Launceston Show’s future, the motor show parked a number of classic cars at the showgrounds on Sunday.
Bernard Gale was one exhibitor with his 1929 Chevrolet, which he purchased three years ago.
The former mechanic said the old car had been sitting in good condition in a shed for about 30 years before he purchased it, put a new battery and some fuel in, and drove away.
The remarkably well-preserved engine only needed a few repairs and upgrades to be approved as roadworthy.
“I only had to add the indicators for it to be approved,” Mr Gale said.
“That’s a proper motor, you can see what it is.”
Compared to the electrics-heavy motors used in cars these days, Mr Gale said the old car stood the test of time.
“I take it out once every few weeks, I do weddings with it too,” he said.
Launceston Motor Show organiser Graeme Page said it was good to see people showing up to see the cars and in support of the Royal Launceston Show.
The classic old cars, trucks, trailers and motor homes were on display throughout Sunday as one part of fundraising efforts by the Royal Launceston Show society to ensure the agricultural show returns this October.
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Mr Page said the event had a “very good display” of classic and rare cars and vehicles, with plenty of exhibitors supporting the day, although it had been hoped more spectators would visit.
“We were a bit short on numbers but it was a very good, well-supported car show,” he said.
“All in all we were very happy with that.”
Efforts to restore the Royal Launceston Show’s fortunes have redoubled after last year’s disappointing crowd numbers and returns sparked fears the show would be cancelled.
Royal Launceston Show Society president Jock Gibson said on Thursday that a number of fundraising options had been developed as the society was determined to keep it alive.
Mr Gibson said the society was determined to keep a traditional agricultural show in Launceston, reduced to one day instead of the typical three.
In December the society made a proposal to the City of Launceston council to buy back its lease at the Launceston Showgrounds, and the society would lease it back for a one-day event.
The proposal was rejected by the council, forcing the society to consider fundraising events throughout the year to cover costs and keep the show going on.
