Sydney Truckfest, the first event of its kind in many years, is set to satisfy the thirst of road transport personal and devotees in the NSW capital and surrounds on May 3 to 5 this year.
The event is the brainchild of Brendon Ryan and Bruce Gunter, the duo behind the Copy Southbound Podcast. Both have had their hands in numerous successful events in the past, so it’s no surprise that they’ve come to the decision to try and reinvent Sydney’s iconic truck show scene.
Sydney Truckfest will predominantly be a show for new vehicles, trailing equipment and services dedicated to the road transport industry, filling a void in the area.
According to Brendon and Bruce, there hasn’t been a show in the area dedicated to new equipment in nearly 20 years.
“We want to support the local dealers, manufacturers, body builders and services associated with the road transport industry,” they state.
“We want to see the producers and suppliers of accessories and equipment given a chance to showcase their wares.
“For businesses based in NSW, the only way to show their products is to travel interstate and for the potential buyers, they’ve been left with the same option. So we decided to put our event and marketing skills to the test to try and reignite the local truck show scene and aim to produce a biennial event.”
The inaugural Truckfest will be held at the Hawkesbury Showgrounds in Clarendon, between Windsor and Richmond in Sydney’s north-west. The town sits on the Hawkesbury River, enveloped by farmland and Australian bush. Many of the oldest surviving European buildings in Australia are located in the Windsor and Richmond area.
The Hawkesbury Showgrounds is also the regular venue for the annual Clarendon Classic Rally and the Kenworth Klassic.
However, the main reason for the holding Truckfest at the Hawkesbury Showgrounds was said to be the relaxed, country atmosphere and the hope of it being an event that is a cross between successful shows such as Ag-Quip, Casino and the Brisbane Truck Shows.
During the May weekend, local vendors will be offering an array of food and beverages, including a fully functional licenced bar.
Entertainment will come from country music duo Baylou, singer-songwriter Divinia Jean and country rockers The James Brothers, among others.
Elsewhere, truck rides will offer a chance for attendees to hop into the passenger seat of a classic truck. There will also be a model truck display and a show and shine, minus the judging and trophies.
For further information see the Truckfest website at www.sydneytruckfest.com.au