A ONCE in a lifetime event at Fly Point on Saturday brought together car enthusiasts, stall holders at Coventry Corner Market, local community groups, Port Stephens Koalas, Marine Rescue Port Stephens, Rotary and local radio station PSFM 100.9.

Concours sports car restorations take a piece of ‘scrap’ (valued around $60,000) and restore it to its former glory, resulting in the vehicle’s value around $200,000.

Shannons insurance is one of the biggest supporters of the event, and specialise in insurance for elite vehicles.

There were two competitions, Concours d’Elegance, which judged a vehicle on every single aspect of authenticity, even down to the last nut and bolt. There was a 1948 Jaguar 3.5 ltr saloon, later renamed Mark 4, which had a complete set of original tools in its boot.

The other aspect of the competition was the Concours d’Etat which was for cleanliness and condition of the vehicle.

On display were vehicles from the earliest Jaguars to the very latest worth around $300,000.

The atmosphere was summed up nicely by Paddy Twohill, President of PSFM, “This has been a great day, very sophisticated, relaxed and unhurried, it has been a pleasure providing music for this event.”

Wandy McIntyre-Leake from Bundalong brought her beautiful 41-year-old XJC with only 75,000 kms on the clock.

She told News Of The Area, “This is the first time the car has been in the rain, and we travelled 120 kms through torrential rain to get here.”

PS Koalas, Marine Rescue PS and PS Classic Automobile Association said it was a fantastic event.

Enquiries, support and interest exceeded any expectation.

All local volunteer groups insisted that News Of The Area extend a hearty thank you to the organisers for such an amazing event and to the community for their genuine interest, support and concern.

Port Stephens locals thank the 48^th Jaguar National Rally for a truly magnificent event.

 

By Mandy ELLIS