Over the Easter long weekend, motoring enthusiasts from all over New South Wales gathered at Parkes Racecourse to celebrate the 53rd Council of Heritage Motor Club (CHMC) Annual Rally coinciding with the 50th Anniversary of the Parkes Antique Motor Club. The event drew in a diverse array of vehicles and participants.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A total of 79 vehicles were entered into the rally, showcasing a remarkable variety of automotive history. Among them were 9 XY Falcon 4X4's and 29 vehicles belonging to club members. The vehicles hailed from all corners of NSW, demonstrating the widespread appeal of the event.
The oldest vehicle on display was a meticulously preserved 1921 Douglas Motorcycle, juxtaposed by the youthful charm of a 1990 Mercedes Benz, representing the breadth of motoring heritage on display.
The Parkes Racecourse served as the ideal venue for the weekend's festivities, hosting judging on Saturday morning, serving as the starting point for Sunday's touring runs, and providing a scenic backdrop for Monday's farewell breakfast.
Participants also had the opportunity to explore Parkes' local attractions on Saturday afternoon, including the Henry Parkes Centre, Historic Aircraft Museum, Radio Telescope, and the newly inaugurated Fire Museum, enriching their experience with the region's rich history and culture.
Sunday's activities included a well attended Easter Service conducted by Father Brian Schmalkuche and afternoon tours which took participants on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Eugowra Murals, Forbes Sculptures, Sculptures Down the Lachlan, and iconic Utes in the paddock, offering a delightful blend of sightseeing and motoring adventure.
The highlight of the weekend was Sunday evening's Presentation Dinner, where 204 attendees gathered to commemorate the Parkes Antique Motor Club's 50 years of legacy and excellence. All trophies and shields were presented on the night with our very own Philip Dixon taking out 'Best Veteran' for his 1912 Albion Fire Engine. The club that won 'The Mal Mason Shield' for 2024 was the Central Coast Historic Car Club. The celebration marked a milestone in the club's history and served as a testament to the enduring passion of its members.
Established in 1974, the Parkes Antique Motor Club was founded by a group of motoring enthusiasts seeking to create a local hub for heritage motoring activities. Over the years, the club has played an integral role in preserving and promoting the region's motoring heritage.
The club's journey has been marked by notable achievements, including hosting six CHMC Annual Rallies, winning the coveted Mal Mason Shield, and organising annual rallies for Heritage Motor Cycles. The acquisition of the Parkes Motor Museum and its subsequent transformation into a world-class display environment at the Henry Parkes Centre stands as a testament to the club's commitment to preserving automotive history.
Looking ahead, the Parkes Antique Motor Club remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of motoring enthusiasts and welcoming visitors to experience the warmth of Parkes hospitality. As they celebrated their Golden Anniversary alongside the 53rd CHMC Annual Rally, they extend a warm invitation to all to join in the festivities and revel in the joy of motoring heritage. The next CHMC Annual Rally will be held in Dubbo for 2025.
