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Gallery | All Japanese Day Car Show shifts gears for a good cause

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Shepparton locals Nikita Filliponi and dog Bailey won the award for Best Car with their 1969 Toyota Corolla. Photo by Taylah Baker

On a day when the King’s Birthday typically reigns supreme, a local event ruled the roads.

The All Japanese Day Car Show, organised by the Goulburn Valley Muscle Car Group and GV Aero Club, brought a fleet of pristine machines to the Shepparton Aerodrome on Monday, June 9.

There, about 65 cars and motorcycles captured the attention of auto hobbyists and enthusiasts across the region.

Among them was GV Muscle Car Group member and event organiser Ian Watt.

“I thought if we got 30 vehicles, I would be happy,” he said.

“When they all started rocking up, I was over the moon.”

While the throaty roar of engines pumped adrenaline, the event’s purpose tugged at the heartstrings.

A total of $350 was raised, bringing the cumulative total to $4400 over the years, for the Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad, ensuring its members can continue to respond in times of need.

When fires raze or floods engulf.

When searches are conducted under the blanket of the night.

Or when personal tragedy strikes.

Mr Watt experienced such a tragedy firsthand a few years ago, when a car accident involving him and other family members ended in grief.

“I can’t thank Shepparton Search and Rescue more, and this is the only way I could think to give back to them,” he said.

“They saved my life.”

For those interested in future events, updates can be found at facebook.com/Autoshowsvic

Nikita Filliponi says her 1969 Toyota Corolla is partially owned by her dog, Bailey. Photo by Taylah Baker
Switching gears, several motorbikes bordered the Shepparton Aerodrome. Photo by Taylah Baker
Ben Vanderzee and his sleek 1987 Mitsubishi Cordia. Photo by Taylah Baker
A pristine and polished 1987 Mitsubishi Cordia. Photo by Taylah Baker
GV Muscle Car Group member Ian Watt made sure the crowd was up to speed. Photo by Taylah Baker
GV Aero Club president Simon Greig presents the Best Coupe of Show to Ken Anderson for his 1979 Mazda RX-4 coupe. Photo by Taylah Baker
Vehicles depart from the event but let the good times roll. Photo by Taylah Baker