Alexandra and the heavy haulers and co.

Alexandra truck, ute and rod show 2015

Most country towns are generally renowned for their serenity, great places to retreat to when you need to get some well-deserved R&R, or simply get away from the hustle and bustle of city living.

Once in a while, one of these towns will blow you away with an annual event that you could not believe unless you saw it with your own eyes!

Last weekend, it was my first time to check out the Alexandra truck, rod and ute show sponsored by Adtrans Used Trucks along with many other sponsors. I had known of the event for a number of years but had never had the opportunity to visit it. No one could have convinced me of the size of the event and the following that it has until I saw it for myself!

Alexandra truck, ute and rod show 2015

The township of Alexandra, located at the intersections of the Goulburn Highway and Maroondah Highway in Victoria has a population of around 3000 residence but last Sunday’s major truck show looked like it had doubled the population of the historic township! The main strip of Alexandra was lined with show trucks for over three blocks! Accompanying the big rigs were an eclectic array of rods, utes, classic cars and bikes branching off into side streets.

Alexandra truck, ute and rod show 2015

The weekend officially kicks off on Friday night as drivers and other industry representatives gather for a meal and social get-together while Saturday pays homage to those whose lives have been tragically taken while working behind the wheel. They are remembered in reverence at the Truck Drivers Memorial that has been erected at a park in the township. Sunday sees the pride of the highways and byways on show in all their splendour.

Not to be a show just for the automotive enthusiasts, the local Lions club, with assistance from the shire of Murrindindi, complimented the automotive based event with a carnival of rides and sideshows highlighted by a full sized Ferris wheel. Those less eager to take on the thrill of the rides could peruse through the many market stalls and local shops displaying creative country wares and nick-knacks, check out the traveling petting zoo or admire the strength and skill of a wood chopping competition.

Alexandra truck, ute and rod show 2015

Musical ambience resonates throughout the event from the main stage located in the centre strip with a variety of high quality country rock bands and local singers and really help set the mood for the country festival.

Alexandra truck, ute and rod show 2015

Some of the best cooking smells you found yourself salivating over could be found emanating from the many BBQs located outside the numerous cafes and pubs running along the main street or you could put your feet up and catch up with friends over a great country style feast inside the many clubs, pubs and cafes Alexandra has to offer.

The weekend rounds out with a fast paced auction and the obligatory trophy presentation before the big rigs fire up their machines and enjoy the standing ovation from visitors and locals alike as they line the streets to watch the procession of rigs and rides exit the festival and head for home.

If you are yet to take in all that Alexandra has to offer on this Queens Birthday long weekend, then you’re missing out on a great family friendly event and some fine country hospitality! You need to mark it down in your calendar for next year and book in your accommodation now! If you’ve got set of wheels that would fit right in to this huge celebration of all things country and automotive then polish her up and enjoy the country drive to and from Alexandra and the vibrant festival atmosphere in between!

I’ll see you there!

Cheers,
Greg