Car enthusiasts from all corners of Australia are set to gather in Shepparton for the much-anticipated 20th Falcon GT Nationals event, showcasing a stunning array of meticulously restored Ford Falcon GTs. Among these enthusiasts is Dave Cockles, whose deep connection with his 1967 Ford Falcon XR GT dates back to his teenage years in Boort, Central Victoria.
The Ford Falcon GT, introduced by Ford Australia in 1967, revolutionized the Australian automotive industry by incorporating high-performance features akin to American muscle cars. Cockles’ nostalgia for his XR GT led him to rescue and restore it after stumbling upon it in a dilapidated condition years later. His restoration journey, which began with a modest $1,400 purchase, transformed the car into a cherished “time machine” that he enjoys driving to this day.
One poignant relic from Cockles’ XR GT is a tachometer revolution counter with the word ‘help’ inscribed on it, a quirky detail that captured his imagination both in his youth and during the restoration process. This personal connection to his vehicle exemplifies the profound bond enthusiasts share with their cars, transcending mere mechanical appreciation to evoke cherished memories and emotional attachments.
As the president of the organizing committee for the Falcon GT Nationals, Cockles plays a pivotal role in curating this biennial event that celebrates the iconic Ford model. This year’s milestone 20th edition, hosted at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) in Shepparton, promises a spectacular display of restored GTs, drawing attention to the rich heritage and craftsmanship embedded in these classic vehicles.
Marcus Cook, the museum’s operations manager, anticipates a significant turnout of over 3,000 attendees eager to admire the meticulously restored GTs on showcase. The event marks a historic moment for MOVE, as it hosts a national gathering dedicated to the Ford Falcon GT for the first time, underscoring the enduring popularity and cultural significance of these automotive treasures.
Moreover, the museum proudly exhibits several prized GTs, some valued at over a million dollars due to their exceptional restoration quality and historical significance. These immaculately preserved vehicles not only serve as testaments to automotive excellence but also as tangible links to Australia’s motoring heritage, inviting enthusiasts and visitors alike to appreciate the legacy of the Ford Falcon GT.
In essence, the Falcon GT Nationals in Shepparton represent more than a convergence of car enthusiasts; they embody a collective passion for automotive history, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of classic vehicles. As attendees flock to witness these meticulously restored GTs, they partake in a celebration of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and the timeless appeal of the Ford Falcon GT, reaffirming its status as an icon in Australia’s automotive landscape.
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