‘Australia’s Own Car’, the Holden, was launched in 1948 and became an instant hit, dominating the local car market. From 1948 until its closure in 2017, Holden built almost 7.7 million vehicles in Australia.

Killabakh resident and self-proclaimed car nut, Jim Hull, has had a lifelong passion for Holden cars and owns two prized early models, a 1952 FX Sedan and a 1955 FJ Business Sedan.

Like all older cars, both come with interesting histories. The 1952 FX was once spray painted with a vacuum cleaner by the lady owner as she preferred a different shade of mushroom pink. The 1955 FJ was nearly a write off when purchased, as it had crumpled doors, no brakes and ran pretty rough after years as a paddock basher and roo shooters’ vehicle.

“Despite the age of the vehicles, we love ‘em and just keep hold’en on”, Jim said.

Related content: Killabakh Day in the Country 2017 photos

The 70th birthday of the iconic Holden car will be celebrated with a display of vintage vehicles spanning the decades from Jim’s 1950s classics, through to the panel van, the Statesman, the Torana, the Gemini and the Commodore.

All vehicles on display are owned by local enthusiasts, members of the Taree Historic Motor Club and Mid Coast Holden Club.

This year also marks 50 years since Holden became involved with tour car racing, winning the Bathurst 1000 a record 32 times. DitC organisers hope to have at least one racing car on display.

As part of the celebration, Harrington writer and Holden enthusiast, Joel Wakely, will be attending, selling and signing copies of his acclaimed book The Passion for Holden.

Killabakh’s ‘A Day in the Country’ will be held on Saturday, September 1, 10am – 3pm, just 16 kilometres north of Wingham along Comboyne Road.

A great day out for all the family is assured with over 60 stalls, the Scarecrow Competition with prizes donated by Bunnings Taree, an art exhibition featuring top quality works, activities for the young ones in the Kids Fun Zone, delicious food, plenty of seating and live music will be performing throughout the day including crowd favourites, the ‘Red Cedar Band’, reformed for one last show!

Entry is by gold coin donation which provides the visitor with the day’s program of events as well as the opportunity to win a raffle prize.

For further details contact George Hoad on 6550 58990 or email ghoad@internode.on.net or go to the website killabakh.wix.com/day-in-the-country