Get out the vintage gear, start your engines and get ready for the return of SA’s favourite historic vehicle event, Bay to Birdwood.
The Bay to Birdwood is recognised as one of the world’s great historic motoring events and has been a fixture on the South Australian events calendar since its inception in 1980.
Each year, thousands of spectators line the 67-kilometre route to view the passing parade of historic motoring from West Beach through to the National Motor Museum, in the Adelaide Hills township of Birdwood.
Year after year, there are hordes of spectators who flock to Birdwood to view the rare and wonderful vehicles from the antique to the veterans, and classics.
“The Bay to Birdwood is well known for its crowd participation, with many people dressing the part,” said Event Director, Laura Kroetsch. “It draws spectators from all around Australia and the world to celebrate historic motoring.”
This year is no different. On Sunday October 16, you will be able to have a full view of all of your favourite historic vehicles, from steam engines to rotor motors and new historic converted EVs.
All vehicles featured in the event are manufactured over thirty years ago and with a curated emphasis on older vehicles ensuring that the rare and much-loved collector vehicles are well represented.
So don’t expect to see your trusty 2015 sky blue Honda Jazz in attendance.
According to event organisers, 2022 is set to be one of the best events yet.
“It’s all back, the historical vehicles, the fun, the fashions the festivities. We have high numbers of interstate vehicles entered this year after two years of not being able to come because of COVID-19 restrictions.
“We also have a large number of vehicles entered into the Awards, Concours d’Elegance and Preservation Awards plus the new EV Awards too,” Event Director, Laura Kroetsch said.
Not only is the Bay to Birdwood a celebration for those who have ties to these eras, but it’s an opportunity for the younger generations to acknowledge and experience the nostalgia and learn from generations of motoring enthusiasts and citizen collectors.
“The Bay to Birdwood is living history. It’s important for younger generations to see for themselves the progression of vehicles and their shapes, colours and design features from over time.
“It’s a multigenerational event where all families and friends get together and participate. Whether they are in a historic vehicle, watching along the route or at the ultimate experience at the finish at the National Motor Museum. Some vehicles have been in one family for nearly 100 years!” Laura continued.
Since last year was cancelled, entrants from 2021 will have their chance to strut their stuff this year.
It’s not only the vehicles that are strutting a retro vibe; there is an opportunity for all to play dress-up in your best period clothing with many participants matching the era of their vehicles with their attire. Everyone goes all out, so you won’t be the only ones looking like they just stepped out of a time machine.
“Attendees to the Finish Festival are encouraged to wear fashions from any era up to the early 1990s. And they should bring their best original fashions if they are entering the Fashions on the Field on the day,” Laura said.
There’s also another star attraction that you should definitely check out.
“We have a Stanley Steamer (only three of this type left in the world) yes, a steam vehicle from 1909 is entered this year, and will be admired and cheered on by up to 90,000 spectators who line the route! It’s a rare opportunity,” laura said.
There will also be an assortment of entertainment and quality regional produce on offer with Adelaide Hills craft beer, wines and spirits plus delicious gourmet street food served by local food trucks.
Vehicle registrations are now closed but, you are still able to buy tickets to the best experience ever, when the vehicles all gather at the finish at Birdwood here.
So what are you waiting for? Be a part of motorsport history and make a day for Bay to Birdwood.
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