By TANIA PHILLIPS
THOSE dusty old vans that once sat decaying under the mango tree are now the latest trend in classic motoring recreation … stand by for the historic Leyburn Sprints Retro Caravan Show-off.
Leyburn resident and Sprints committee member Michael Salvestro had the idea to add retro vans to the Shannons Show ‘n’ Shine and other off-track attractions of the Sprints weekend.
It already promises to be a hit, evoking memories of earlier eras when holidays meant a spot beside the beach. The vans represent Australia’s holiday touring heritage.
Salvestro has been surprised at the response and expects more than 30 immaculate vans from yesteryear to roll into town this weekend for the inaugural Show-Off. And he’s so caught up in the craze he’s built his own.
Retro vans are growing in popularity. The movement has its own magazine and owners attend regular shows around the country.
There are all types, from ’60s classics to pre-war style homes on wheels, built in timber, aluminium or fibreglass and many appropriately decked out with period furnishings, fittings and appliances.
At Leyburn, van owners will pay just $10 to enter the competition section of the show, but generous cash prizes are at stake.
Categories are for Best Retro Caravan and Display, Best Retro Caravan and Car Combination and Quirkiest Retro Caravan.
Judging will be on Saturday and the prize presentations on Sunday, when the vans also will be invited to take a parade lap around the Sprints course so they can be seen in all their glory ‘on the road’.
A special grassy parking area – or corrall – has been reserved for the retro vans and the scene will be livened with a boisterous live performance by the Jon Skye Ban on Saturday afternoon.
For those who can’t resist the beat, a special dance floor has been built so they can show off their rock ‘n’ roll moves.
