Gorillas, ghostbusters, barmaids and even Aussie beer cans and kangaroos all endured a frosty -1degC start at the Makarewa Country Club on Saturday morning with one goal in mind — to get their Australian-made car to Te Anau on the 2023 Aussie Crawl.
Southland Holden Enthusiasts Club president Dean Cousins said more than 360 people in 78 vehicles met at the Makarewa Country Club before setting off on their tongue-in-cheek adventure.
Only cars with an Australian origin were allowed to enter the car rally.
Good-hearted banter and friendly Holden-Ford rivalry was all part of the weekend’s fun because all had a common interest, he said.
"The Ford-Holden rivalry, that’s always been an always there ... we all get along really, really well together ... even though they’re not building these cars anymore, that little bit of banter between the brands will always continue."
A different route with refreshment and meal stops was plotted each year .
Stops were carefully planned so venue hosts were able to cater for the large influx of people, Mr Cousins said.
A multitude of prizes were issued throughout the day including: best Holden, best Ford, best Valiant, hard luck and best dressed.
Mr Cousins said the hard part was choosing who should win which prize.
"We always have a lot of people who go to a lot of effort, and that’s the same every year.
"Some rally entrants have imported their costumes especially for the day."
The Mataura RSA was the first stop for the convoy of vehicles, where a publican’s award would be given to the best car, while lunch was held in Gore.
The rally traditionally finished in Te Anau, providing the economically Covid-ravaged township a welcome flurry of business for the smaller cafes and bars.
"It’s always a good cash injection into small business, which is what it’s all about.
"There’s an excess of probably 350 people going to be staying the night. So it is good for the town."
Mr Cousins said finding a venue that could host everyone was a challenge. Most people stayed at the Luxmore Lodge, but supported the town’s other businesses.
- By Toni McDonald
