All roads lead to Show ‘N’ Shine

VEHICLE enthusiasts, bric-a-brac and collectables fanatics, and even art lovers, will flock to this year’s Rotary Club of Leongatha Show ‘N’ Shine and Swap Meet this Sunday.

While last year’s event was bigger than Ben-Hur, with more than 400 vehicles on display taking up most of the Leongatha Recreation Reserve precinct, an even bigger event is likely this time.

Event organiser Jim McNiven explained the always popular Swap Meet is sure to be a spectacular success, with pent-up demand for opportunities to buy and sell items, both vehicle related and general bric-a-brac.

With so many Show ‘N’ Shine and Swap Meet gatherings sidelined due to the pandemic over the last couple of years, enthusiasts of both are flocking to such gatherings in large numbers.

Those keen to grab a bargain at the Swap Meet will be raring to go early, although it will run until after lunch.

The Leongatha Show ‘N’ Shine is renowned for its high standard of judging, with 12 officials responsible for ensuring the right winners are picked.

Jim, who is one of the judges, explained it’s not a matter of just looking at vehicles and deciding which looks nice.

“We have teams of judges experienced in the type of vehicles they are judging, and we’re finnicky,” he said.

Those entering vehicles can take advantage of express entry this year, scanning the QR code in the Leongatha Show ‘N’ Shine advertisement in today’s paper or on the event flyer.

That process allows entrants to fill out the necessary form and pay their entry fee in advance, enabling them to drive straight in on the day.

Public entry to the event will still be at the gate.

Art is a new addition to this year’s show, with an exhibition to be held in the Gippsland Historical Automobile Club rooms at the recreation reserve.

The artworks on show have been collected by Leongatha Rotary Club over the years and include pieces judged ‘best in show’ at some of the organisation’s annual art shows.

Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase the artworks.

While logistical challenges and a much larger than expected attendance resulted in challenges for some in buying a coffee or finding a bite to eat last year, there’ll be an abundance of food, coffee and other beverages available this time.