Behind the Scenes at Perth Supercars 2026

Aussie Garage went behind the scenes at Perth Supercars 2026 at Motormall Raceway, exploring the paddock, Trans Am garages, V8 SuperUtes, Hyundai Excel racing, classic muscle cars and plenty more.

While we couldn’t show the main Supercars racing due to licensing restrictions, there was still plenty happening around one of Western Australia’s biggest motorsport events.

Inside the Perth Supercars Paddock

We headed into the paddock for a closer look at the cars, teams and garages behind the racing.

The Trans Am area was a highlight, with some seriously tough race cars on display. We also checked out the V8 SuperUtes, another popular category combining close racing with plenty of V8 power.

For the official Supercars racing action, visit the Supercars Championship YouTube channel.

Hyundai Excel Racing

We also caught up with competitors involved in Hyundai Excel racing.

Excel racing offers enthusiasts a relatively affordable way to get involved in circuit motorsport, with an emphasis on close competition and driver ability rather than massive horsepower.

We spoke with racers about the category and why it has become such a popular form of grassroots motorsport in Western Australia.

Northern Steel Muscle Car Display

Away from the race cars, Northern Steel brought together an impressive collection of classic and modified cars.

There were plenty of Australian and American muscle cars to check out, including the type of classic Holdens, Fords and custom builds we love featuring on Aussie Garage.

We also spotted several cars that you’ll hopefully see in future Aussie Garage features.

Penrite, Trade Displays and FMX

Around the venue, we checked out the Penrite merchandise display and other automotive trade stands.

Then it was time to look skyward as the freestyle motocross riders put on a huge show, launching their bikes through the air and performing some wild tricks.

It proved there was much more to Perth Supercars than just the racing on track.

Watch Aussie Garage at Perth Supercars 2026

Our visit to Perth Supercars 2026 at Motormall Raceway included Trans Am race cars, V8 SuperUtes, Hyundai Excel racing, classic muscle cars, Northern Steel, FMX and plenty of behind-the-scenes action.

If you’re into Australian muscle cars, classic cars, motorsport and unique builds, follow Aussie Garage for more from Western Australia and around the country.

What was your favourite part of Perth Supercars? Let us know in the comments!

#PerthSupercars #Supercars #WannerooRaceway #AussieGarage #MotorMall #MotorMallRaceway #AustralianMotorsport

The post Inside Perth Supercars 2026! Behind the Scenes at Motormall Raceway appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

The Northern Steel August Meet in Joondalup brought out an impressive mix of classic cars, Australian muscle and tough street machines.

Held at Bunnings Joondalup in Western Australia, the meet was packed with Holdens, Ford Falcons, Toranas, Monaros, panel vans, American muscle cars and custom builds.

Aussie Garage headed along to check out the action.

Holdens, Falcons and Australian Muscle

There was plenty to see for both Holden and Ford fans.

Highlights included HQ Monaros, Holden Toranas, XA–XC Falcon coupes, an XE Falcon, VH Commodore SL/E, VL Calais Turbo, EJ panel van, Holden Gemini and a wild supercharged XG Falcon.

A custom FJ Holden was another standout among the huge variety of classics and modified cars.

Knight Rider KITT Steals the Show

One of the most unusual cars of the night was an incredible Knight Rider KITT tribute car.

Based on the famous car from the Knight Rider television series, this KITT recreation featured a range of working functions that attracted plenty of attention throughout the night.

American muscle was also well represented, including a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustangs and other classic V8s.

Perth’s Northern Steel Car Meet

Cars continued rolling into Northern Steel throughout the evening, making for a great night of Perth classic cars, Australian muscle cars and steel-bumper classics.

The variety is what makes these meets so enjoyable. From original classics to heavily modified street machines, there was something for almost every motoring enthusiast.

Which car would you take home? And are you choosing Holden or Ford?

Let us know in the comments!

Want Your Car Featured on Aussie Garage?

Own an interesting classic, muscle car, custom build or unique vehicle?

Get in touch with Aussie Garage for the opportunity to have your pride and joy featured.

Watch Aussie Garage on YouTube, Channel 31 Melbourne and Channel 44 Adelaide for more Australian car shows, cruises, custom builds and classic-car features.

#NorthernSteel #PerthCarScene #AussieMuscleCars #AussieGarage #ClassicCars #Musclecars

The post Perth’s Northern Steel Meet Was PACKED! Tough Holdens, Falcons & Muscle Cars appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Aussie Garage regularly attends car shows, cruises, motorsport events and automotive meets across Western Australia, as well as selected interstate events.

Come and say hello to the Aussie Garage crew! At selected events, we’ll be filming for Aussie Garage TV, and at others you’ll also find our merchandise stall and automotive products.

SEPTEMBER

6 September – Roll Racing #61 | Perth, WA
Filming
More info

19 September – Moora Show | Moora, WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

20 September – Celebration of Motorsport | WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

26 September – Northern Steel | WA
Filming
More info

27 September – BCCC Meet n Greet | WA Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

OCTOBER

4 October – Cars, Coffee & Swap Meet | Pingelly, WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More information coming soon.

18 October – Southwest Swapmeet | Bunbury Geographe, WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

24 October – Rumble In Rocko | Rockingham, WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

25 October – Wagons Out West | WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

NOVEMBER

8 November – HOGWEST Car & Bike Show | Chidlow, WA
Filming | Merchandise Stall
More info

13–14 November – Adelaide Auto Expo | Adelaide, SA
Filming
More info

15 November – Dirty Devils Car Club | Adelaide, SA
Filming
More info

16 November – Adelaide Interviews | Adelaide, SA
Available all day for vehicle interviews!
Want your pride and joy featured on Aussie Garage? Get in touch to arrange an interview while we’re in Adelaide.

17 November – Adelaide Interviews | Adelaide, SA
Available all day for vehicle interviews!
We have another full day available for vehicle features and interviews in Adelaide. Contact us to arrange a filming time.

Want Aussie Garage at Your Event?

Are you organising a car show, cruise, motorsport event, swap meet or automotive gathering?

We’re always looking for great events to attend for Aussie Garage TV filming and/or our merchandise stall.

Contact Aussie Garage and tell us about your event!

The post Where to find aussie garage appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Original 1956 Ford Fairlane V8 – A True American Time Capsule

This remarkably original 1956 Ford Fairlane is a genuine survivor, powered by a 292 Y-block V8 and still retaining much of its original paint, interior, chrome and mechanical equipment.

Aussie Garage caught up with Jason at Cleveland Spares in Melbourne to check out this huge left-hand-drive American classic.

A Remarkably Original Ford Fairlane

Originally purchased in Colorado, USA, the Fairlane has been carefully preserved rather than completely restored.

Under the bonnet is the original-style 292 Y-block V8, complete with an oil-bath air cleaner, generator, points ignition and Thunderbird engine badging.

Only essential maintenance has been carried out over the years, including a replacement radiator, thermo fan, exhaust, front shock absorbers and carpet.

The Original AM Radio Still Works

One of the coolest features is the factory valve-operated AM radio, which incredibly still works.

Inside, you’ll also find the original-style dashboard, steering wheel and trim, while outside the huge chrome bumpers, hubcaps and two-tone styling capture everything we love about 1950s American cars.

Fairlane Highlights

• 292 Y-block V8
• Original two-tone styling
• Original interior and dashboard
• Working factory AM radio
• Four-wheel drum brakes
• Thunderbird engine badging
• Original-style Ford hubcaps
• Extensive ownership and service history
• Carefully preserved and regularly driven

Watch on Aussie Garage

Check out the full Aussie Garage episode as we explore this incredible 1956 Ford Fairlane V8 at Cleveland Spares in Melbourne.

Would you keep this Fairlane exactly as it is, or give it a few tasteful upgrades? Let us know in the comments!

#FordFairlane #1956Ford #ClassicFord #ClassicCars #AussieGarage #AussieGarageTV #Ford #Classiccars

The post 1956 Ford Fairlane Time Capsule – Even the AM Radio Works! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

This beautifully restored Holden LX Torana Hatchback has a story unlike most classic cars.

Owner Kim bought the Torana as a rusty wreck and started a complete restoration. But during the engineering and licensing process, he discovered something completely unexpected.

The Torana had been reported stolen in Victoria in 1984.

Thankfully, the original owner was found and the issue was resolved. Kim could then finish the restoration and get the Torana back on the road.

A Classic Holden With Modern Upgrades

Originally an SL with a 202 six-cylinder and automatic transmission, the Torana is now powered by a Holden 308 V8.

It’s backed by a BorgWarner T5 five-speed manual, making it a great old-school V8 cruiser.

Kim has also added several upgrades to make the car easier and more enjoyable to drive.

These include:

• Holden 308 V8
• T5 five-speed manual
• 17×10 rear and 17×8 front hotwire wheels
• BMW 3 Series power steering
• A9X-style front brakes
• Rear disc brakes
• VN Commodore differential
• Truetrac centre
• Air conditioning and heating
• Digital Speedhut gauges
• 2.5-inch stainless exhaust with X-pipe

The classic Torana SS-inspired styling keeps the car looking old-school, despite the modern improvements.

And Kim isn’t finished yet.

A 355 stroker V8 is planned for the future.

More Classics in the Collection

We also check out some of Kim’s other projects.

There’s a very rusty one-owner 1973 Datsun 240Z, an HX Holden panel van, a nearly 100-year-old Ford Model A and a beautiful Jaguar Mk2.

There’s certainly no shortage of future projects!

A Warning for Classic Car Buyers

The Torana’s unusual history also provides an important lesson.

If you’re buying a classic car or restoration project, always check the full chassis or VIN number before spending money on the build.

Kim discovered the Torana’s stolen history during the restoration. Fortunately, everything could be resolved, but it could have been a very different outcome.

Would You Fit the 355?

Kim’s Holden LX Torana is now a great combination of classic Australian styling, V8 power and modern comfort.

The big question is what comes next.

Would you leave the 308 V8 exactly as it is, or fit the planned 355 stroker?

Let us know in the comments.

Follow Aussie Garage for more classic cars, muscle cars, restorations, workshop tours and Australian automotive stories.

#LXTorana #Torana #SSHatch #Holden #HoldenTorana #AussieGarage

The post He Restored This LX Torana—Then Discovered It Was Stolen! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

If you love classic cars, Australian motorsport and motoring history, the Bunbury Geographe Motor Museum in Western Australia is well worth a visit.

Located around 90 minutes south of Perth, the museum features an impressive collection of genuine race cars, Holden and Ford classics, American muscle cars, vintage motorcycles and motoring memorabilia.

Aussie Garage headed south to take a closer look.

Genuine Holden Race Cars

Some of the biggest highlights are the museum’s genuine Australian race cars.

Among them is a Holden Torana A9X race car, one of the most iconic models from Australia’s touring car era.

There’s also the tough Craven Mild HJ Monaro race car and an incredible Bond and Brock ex-race Torana, connecting the collection with two legendary names in Australian motorsport – Colin Bond and Peter Brock.

For Holden and motorsport fans, these cars alone make the museum worth exploring.

Classic Holden, Ford and Chevrolet

The collection goes well beyond race cars.

You’ll find Australian classics including an HK Monaro GTS and XR Falcon GT, along with classic Ford Escorts and plenty of other interesting vehicles.

American muscle is also represented by a wild supercharged 1969 Chevrolet Corvette.

Another unusual piece of WA motoring history is the West Australian Police Tango 3 drag car.

More Than 100 Years of Motoring History

One of the most interesting things about the Bunbury Geographe Motor Museum is the variety.

The collection stretches from a remarkable 1914 Talbot through to much more recent Australian-built cars such as the Mitsubishi 380.

There are also classic trucks and vintage motorcycles, giving visitors plenty to see beyond the traditional Holden and Ford favourites.

Motoring Memorabilia and Workshop Displays

It’s not just about the cars.

Throughout the museum you’ll discover vintage automotive signs, model cars, motoring memorabilia and historic workshop displays.

These smaller exhibits help tell the story of how Australian motoring, workshops and automotive culture have changed over the decades.

A Great Car Museum Near Perth

At around 90 minutes south of Perth, the Bunbury Geographe Motor Museum makes an excellent destination for a day trip or as part of a visit to Western Australia’s South West.

Whether you’re into Holden Toranas, Monaros, Falcon GTs, classic Fords, American muscle, motorcycles or Australian motorsport history, there’s plenty here to explore.

For us, the genuine race cars are some of the biggest highlights – particularly the A9X Torana, Craven Mild Monaro and Bond and Brock Torana.

If you’re a motoring enthusiast heading through Bunbury, put this one on the list.

Which car or motorcycle would you take home? Let us know in the comments!

#AussieGarage #HoldenTorana #RaceCars #Bunbury #ClassicCars #MuscleCars #PerthCars #AussieMuscle #AussieMuscleCars

The post Rare Holden Race Cars Found in This Incredible WA Motor Museum! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Modified Land Rover Defender TD5 Gets a Bangin’ Headlight Upgrade

Rich’s 2002 Land Rover Defender TD5 is built for serious four-wheel driving and camping, but there was one part of the build letting it down—the headlights.

The Defender was already fitted with aftermarket LED headlights, but their light output simply wasn’t good enough.

After winning the Aussie Garage and Bangin’ Headlights Christmas giveaway, Rich brought the Defender in for an upgrade to a set of Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights.

Traditional Looks, Modern LED Performance

The Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights are designed for enthusiasts who want better lighting without giving their vehicle an overly modern appearance.

They feature:

• Classic glass-lens appearance
• Slim headlight housing
• Warm-white LED light
• Australian right-hand-drive beam pattern
• Simple plug-and-play installation

The traditional design is a great match for the Defender, keeping its classic 4WD appearance while providing a much-needed lighting upgrade.

Old LEDs vs Bangin’ Traditional 7

George demonstrates how easy the headlights are to install before putting them to the test.

Using the workshop wall, we compare Rich’s old generic LED headlights directly against the new Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights.

The comparison shows why choosing the right LED headlight is about more than simply brightness. A good beam pattern helps put usable light where the driver actually needs it while reducing unnecessary glare.

This Defender TD5 Is Far From Standard

While the headlight upgrade brought Rich into the workshop, we couldn’t leave without checking out the rest of his impressive modified Land Rover Defender TD5.

The TD5 turbo-diesel engine has been modified to produce approximately 220 hp and 500 Nm of torque.

It also features an impressive list of off-road upgrades, including:

• Adjustable airbag suspension
• Front and rear winches
• Front and rear lockers
• Beadlock wheels
• Rock sliders
• Upgraded and sound-deadened interior

It’s a Defender that’s been built to actually get out there and be used.

Built for Camping and Touring

Rich has also transformed the Defender into a capable camping and touring setup.

A custom camping canopy and storage system provides plenty of room for equipment and recovery gear, while an onboard water tank and shower awning make longer trips much more practical.

Combined with the extensive off-road modifications, it’s an impressive all-round touring package.

A Better Headlight for a Serious Defender

The Bangin’ Traditional 7 LED headlights finish the Defender off nicely, providing modern LED lighting while retaining the traditional round-headlight appearance.

For classic 4WDs and other vehicles running 7-inch round headlights, they’re an option worth considering if you want improved lighting without losing that old-school look.

Watch the full Aussie Garage feature to see the installation, the old-versus-new headlight comparison and a closer look at Rich’s seriously modified Defender TD5.

#LandRoverDefender #BanginHeadlights #AussieGarage #DefenderTD5 #LandRover #HeadlightUpgrade #LEDHeadlights #4x4Australia #Modified4x4 #OffRoadAustralia

The post The Headlight Upgrade Car Guys Have Been Waiting For appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

After more than three decades apart, original owner Ken has been reunited with the 1978 Holden HZ Sandman he purchased brand new.

Now owned by Matt, this beautifully restored Atlantis Blue panel van still has its original number plates, books and purchase receipt.

However, it is the stories behind the Sandman that make it truly special.

An Australian Adventure Vehicle

Ken used the Sandman as both a work vehicle and a long-distance tourer.

During his ownership, it travelled to Bathurst, Sydney, Coral Bay and Kalbarri. Ken slept in the back, drove it through sand dunes and enjoyed countless adventures across Australia.

It was never treated as a show car. It was built to be used—and Ken certainly made the most of it.

Period Modifications

Ken also made several modifications to the Sandman during his ownership.

These included aircraft landing lights, a Turbo 350 automatic transmission and a locked differential.

Each modification became another part of the vehicle’s unique history.

Powered by a Holden V8

Under the bonnet is Holden’s 4.2-litre V8, better known as the 253.

Hearing that familiar V8 sound again brought back plenty of memories for Ken. The highlight of the reunion came when he climbed into the passenger seat and experienced the Sandman on the road once more.

More Than a Classic Holden

This 1978 Holden HZ Sandman is more than a beautifully restored panel van. It is a piece of Australian motoring history filled with road trips, adventures and personal memories.

Thanks to Matt, the Sandman’s history has been preserved for future generations to enjoy.

A massive thank you to Ken, Matt and Evan for helping Aussie Garage bring this incredible story together.

If you love Holden Sandmans, classic panel vans and genuine owner stories, subscribe to Aussie Garage for more Australian automotive features.

Which classic car from your past would you love to be reunited with? Tell us in the comments.

Visit the Aussie Garage website for more videos, automotive stories and merchandise.

#HoldenSandman #HZSandman #Holden #PanelVan #AussieGarageGet

The post He Bought This Holden HZ Sandman New in 1978—Now He’s Reunited With It! appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Penrite Racing has unveiled its new-look Ford Mustang Supercars featuring special Perth Bears branding ahead of the 2026 Bosch Power Tools Perth Super 440.

Aussie Garage was invited to Penrite’s Bayswater facility in Western Australia for the official reveal. The event brought together Penrite Racing drivers Matt Payne and Kai Allen, team ambassadors, classic vehicles and passionate local motorsport fans.

Penrite Racing Partners With the Perth Bears

The new partnership between Penrite Racing and the Perth Bears was a major focus of the evening.

The distinctive Perth Bears branding gives the team’s Ford Mustang Supercars a fresh appearance while creating an exciting connection between two professional sporting organisations.

Fans attending the event were among the first to see the new-look Mustangs before they hit the track at MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway.

Matt Payne Leads the Supercars Championship

Championship leader and reigning Bathurst winner Matt Payne spoke about the pressure that comes with carrying the orange number on his Ford Mustang.

Payne discussed his determination to achieve a strong result in Perth and continue building his championship campaign. Racing at Wanneroo presents its own challenges, but Payne is aiming to deliver another competitive performance for Penrite Racing.

He also spoke about the challenge of defending his Bathurst crown. Winning Australia’s most famous touring car race is an incredible achievement, but repeating that success requires another outstanding performance from both the driver and the entire team.

Kai Allen Returns to Wanneroo Raceway

Kai Allen also shared his thoughts ahead of the Perth Super 440.

Allen has previous experience and success at Wanneroo Raceway, giving him valuable knowledge of the fast and demanding Western Australian circuit.

Alongside Payne, Allen will play an important role in Penrite Racing’s fight for both the Drivers’ Championship and Teams’ Championship. With both cars performing strongly, the Perth round represents another important opportunity for the team to secure valuable points.

A Special Evening for Perth Motorsport Fans

The Penrite Racing event offered much more than the new Supercars reveal. It was a relaxed and family-friendly evening featuring classic vehicles, team merchandise, food trucks and plenty of opportunities for motorsport supporters to connect.

Fans were able to get close to the cars, hear directly from the drivers and enjoy the atmosphere ahead of one of Western Australia’s biggest motorsport events.

Events like this help bring professional motorsport closer to the community while building excitement before the racing begins.

The 2026 Bosch Power Tools Perth Super 440

The Bosch Power Tools Perth Super 440 will bring the Supercars Championship back to MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway.

The circuit is known for its elevation changes, fast corners and challenging layout. It regularly delivers close racing and provides limited opportunities for drivers to recover from mistakes.

For Penrite Racing, the Perth round will be another important step in its pursuit of the Drivers’ and Teams’ Championships. Local fans will also get their first opportunity to see the Perth Bears Ford Mustang Supercars competing on track.

Aussie Garage at Penrite Racing

A massive thank you goes to Penrite for inviting Aussie Garage to cover this fantastic event.

It was a brilliant opportunity to speak with Matt Payne and Kai Allen, see the newly branded Ford Mustang Supercars and experience the excitement surrounding the Perth Super 440.

If you enjoy Australian motorsport, Supercars, classic cars and automotive events, subscribe to Aussie Garage on YouTube and turn on notifications so you don’t miss our upcoming coverage.

#PenriteRacing #Supercars #AussieGarage #MattPayne #MatthewPayne #KaiAllen #V8Supercars #Super440 #PerthSuper400

The post Inside Penrite Racing’s Supercars Reveal with Matt Payne & Kai Allen appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Some classic cars are special, but this 1978 Holden HZ Sandman is something else.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, Phil catches up with Matt to explore his beautifully restored Atlantis Blue Holden HZ Sandman. Bought new in 1978, this iconic panel van has an incredible history, including a chance encounter that led Matt to reconnect with the original owner’s family.

We take a close look at the Sandman’s 253 V8, factory features, interior, restoration and award-winning presentation, while Matt shares the story behind one of Australia’s most desirable Holden panel vans.

The story doesn’t end there. In the next episode, we join Matt as he meets the original owner for an emotional reunion that every Holden fan will want to see.

If you love Holdens, Sandmans, Australian muscle cars, classic panel vans or survivor cars, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Would you keep the original 253 V8 or swap in a 308? Let us know in the comments!

Show Us Your Ride

Own a vintage, classic or muscle car?

If you’re in Western Australia, Aussie Garage would love to feature your pride and joy. If you’re interstate, get in touch anyway—we’re expanding our filming around Australia and would love to add your car to the list.

#Holden #Sandman #HZSandman #HoldenHZ #ClassicCars #AustralianMuscle #HoldenV8 #PanelVan #ClassicHolden #AussieGarage

The post 1978 Holden HZ Sandman Survivor! Original Owner Found After 48 Years appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.