Big Fords, small Fords, new and old Fords - the lot!
It’s a mild summer’s morning, the window is down, the music’s turned right up and we’re driving towards Geelong. There is an overwhelming majority of cars wearing that instantly recognisable blue oval, so passionately loved by many car enthusiasts in Australia. That can only mean it’s All Ford Day (AFD). The annual event has once again showcased an impressive display of Fords for the 28th year running.
The event has been held at Deakin University’s grounds in Geelong in recent years, but for 2019 the event took place at a new venue, Sutcliffe Reserve in Corio. The reserve has more than enough space for around 2000 cars and enthusiasts. However despite mostly positive feedback about the reserve, there was some controversy over the new venue with some patrons taking to social media suggesting the site was too dry and dusty. This will certainly be a talking point while organising the next one, and no doubt will be resolved.
The day saw more than 1300 Fords, of all styles and models drive through the gates with the majority of owners choosing to start the day early. A staggering 1000 cars had already entered by 9am. The event organisers stated that the crowd was also up on last years final count.
True Blue fans were surrounded on all sides by Ford vehicles of all varieties which included customs, street machines, factory mint and rare models spanning all ages. Possibly the oldest car there was a Brass Model T circa 1909. Perhaps the most unique was an Anglia Panel Van. Amongst the huge showing were some classic race Fords, celebrities (including Unique Cars favourite, John Bowe), automotive industry displays and vendors, topped off with entertainment, and food trucks for the whole family to enjoy.
A noteworthy inclusion to AFD this year was the unveiling of the newly dubbed ‘GT-HO for the modern era’, Premcar’s Holy Grail car. An upgrade kit for your Falcon offering both drivetrain and chassis pieced together by a group of guys that once fettled the FPV flock. Ford brought a 2019 Bullitt Mustang with them to show off. If you registered your car for judging, there were 54 Show and Shine categories to be awarded, with the top prize being the William Clay Ford Jr Perpetual Trophy handed out for ‘Best Overall Ford’. The award is named after Henry Ford’s last surviving grandchild.
All Ford Day 2019 was huge, we’ve got a massive gallery online already, check it out at https://www.tradeuniquecars.com.au/news/1902/2019-all-ford-day-(geelong)-gallery. With the event going from strength to strength, while keeping an eye on the venue debate, 2020 is going be another great day out for the family. The 2020 edition of AFD will be held on Sunday, February 16th, 2020.
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Photography: Shaun Tanner