What better way to celebrate 25 years of the popular event that is the All Ford Day, than with a record number of cars! And attesting to just that was the record turnout of 135 Fords of all ages converged on Victory Square for the annual Queen’s Birthday weekend gathering.
The weather gods must have been smiling, as everything from a 1923 Model T through to several 2016 Mustangs enjoyed a lovely day in the sun. A good representation of Henry’s finest circled both sides of the running track, and entrants were given the opportunity to view a collection of John Deere Tractors, or visit the local railway enthusiast’s workshop.
Members of the public were asked to vote for their favourite car, and at the end of the day Darryl Thian and his purple 1971 XY Falcon came out on top.
That evening, participants gathered at the Buller Workingmen’s Club for the prize-giving. A new committee has been formed to carry this event into the future, so the first presentation was made to Frank and Lucy Avery, Steve Marshall, and Ash Bradley, as these four had been responsible for running the first 25 years of this much-loved event.
Once all the other awards had been shared around, the top prize for the day — the Best of the West trophy — was awarded to Russel Elthan and his 1958 300 Custom.
Words and photos: Steve Reid
