Holden’s spirit and shine

Terry Crabtree with his FJ Holden. 117105 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

By CASEY NEILL

IN WHAT is arguably Holden’s spiritual home, the Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills will next month present its annual showcase of the maker’s best vehicles.
The Dandenong Valley Holden Street Car Show will be held at the Dandenong Showgrounds from 9am to 3pm on Sunday 6 April.
It was originally designed as an outlet for local Commodore owners to get together and take pride in owning, maintaining and driving their cars.
But the show’s appeal was far greater and last year attracted almost 3000 visitors and 300 vehicles from across Australia.
It raises funds for the Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills to support local community and Rotary projects.
FJ Holden owner Terry Crabtree has been part of the show since it started six years ago.
“When it first started there was only a dozen cars,” she said.
“Normally there’s a lot of impressive cars.”
He’s had his car for about 30 years, restored it two decades ago and regularly takes it to car shows.
“I’ve spent a lot of time and money on it over the years,” he said.
Entrants are judged during the morning and presented with winners, runners-up, highly commended and encouragement awards by model groupings at 2pm.
This year there are more categories, with original and modified sections in each.
Radio-controlled model cars run on a special track throughout the day, and there is a jumping castle and other children’s activities.
There’ll be plenty of food from a Rotary barbecue and other refreshments and the Jump ’n’ Jive band will entertain the crowd.
The Dandenong Showgrounds is at Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong.
Entry is $5 for adults and free for children aged under 16.