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.

The Shannons Southern Coffee Cruise in Eaton, near Bunbury, WA, is a popular monthly car meet featuring classic cars, tough street machines, American muscle and custom builds.

Aussie Garage headed south to check out the latest gathering and the huge variety of vehicles on display, while the event also helped support Variety WA.

Classic Holdens, Fords and Muscle Cars

There was something for almost every motoring enthusiast.

Highlights included blown and turbocharged VS Commodores, a tough VK Commodore, classic Ford Falcons, an XC Falcon, Holden and Ford panel vans and several Mustang GTs.

We also spotted a Pontiac Trans Am, Holden HD Premier, Willys Jeep and a big-block 454-powered classic.

Some of the more unusual builds featured custom engine conversions, including supercharged V6-powered cars.

A Great Bunbury Car Meet

Shannons Southern Coffee Cruise regularly attracts enthusiasts from Bunbury, Eaton and across South West WA.

The mix of classic, modified, European, Japanese and American vehicles means there’s always something different to see.

Best of all, the event brings the local automotive community together while helping raise funds for Variety WA.

Watch the full Aussie Garage episode and let us know which car was your favourite.

Subscribe to Aussie Garage for more Australian classic cars, custom builds, car shows, workshop tours and automotive events.

#ShannonsSouthernCoffeeCruise #AussieGarage #ClassicCars #BunburyCars #WAcarScene #HoldenCommodore #FordFalcon #CarShow #AustralianCarsGet

The post Unbelievable Rides at the Shannons Coffee Cruise: You Won’t Believe What’s Next! 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.

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.

Date: Saturday 1st August & 2nd August 2026 ( 2 day event)

Time: 1st 7am – 2nd 5pm

Location: MotorMall Wanneroo Raceway

Details: With lots of time and effort, Murray (the pest), has again managed to organise the Charger Club of WA to be able to participate in the event on both the Saturday and Sunday to display our Mopars, with free entry granted for the vehicle driver and passengers (restrictions apply)

For More Information CLICK HERE

Classic cars & coffee

Date: Sunday 2nd August 2026

Time: 9am – 11am

Location: University of Western Australia

Details: Classic Cars and Coffee is Perth’s Biggest Monthly Cars & Coffee Event 

⇢ Proudly Supporting Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

For More Information CLICK HERE

wa – hsvnc car display at supercheap auto 0’connor

Date: Sunday 2nd August 2026

Time: 10am – 11am

Location: 382 South Street, O’Connor WA 6163

Details: THIS CAR DISPLAY WILL BE AT SUPERCHEAP AUTO O’ CONNOR – 382 SOUTH ST, O’ CONNOR.

For More Information CLICK HERE

shannons southern coffee cruise, eaton

Date: Sunday 9th August 2026

Time: 9am

Location: Eaton Foreshore Playground

Details: Shannons Southern Coffee Cruise, Meeting mates ya haven’t met yet since 2016

For More Information CLICK HERE

chryslers and coffee

Date: Saturday 15th August 2026

Time: 8am

Location: Gracie’s Cafe

Details: Saturday 15th August 8:00am – 10.00am Chryslers and Coffee Monthly casual coffee

For More Information CLICK HERE

northern steel monthly meet august 2026

Date: Saturday 15th August 2026

Time: 6pm

Location: Bunnings Joondalup

Details: The August meet of Northern Steel will be held outside Bunnings Joondalup (cnr of Sundew Rise and Joondalup Drive) also known as Joondalup Square.

For More Information CLICK HERE

hopdup hotrods and donuts monthly meet

Date: Sunday 16th August 2026

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Location: Jaylea’s Patisserie

Details: A casual catch up open to pre 66 hotrods, customs, classic cars and bikes

For More Information CLICK HERE

wa -hsvnc cruise to gin gin hotel

Date: Sunday 16th August 2026

Time: 11am – 4pm

Location: BP (Midvale, WA, Australia)

Details: Join us for a cruise to the Gin Gin Hotel. There will be some beautiful opportunities for photos along the way.

For More Information CLICK HERE

combustion & coffee car show supporting – epilepsy wa

Date: Saturday 22nd August 2026

Time: 9am – 12:30pm

Location: Armadale Senior High Scool

Details: Combustion and Coffee Car Show supporting – Epilepsy WA at the Armadale Senior high School Oval. Sanctioned event confirmed

For More Information CLICK HERE

REPCO PRESENTS: CUSTOM CARS & COFFEE – AUGUST MEET

Date: Sunday 23th August 2026

Time: 9am – 11:30am

Location: Midvale Speed Dome

Details: We want to see every corner of Perth’s car culture roll out — from Muscle to JDM, Hotrods to Exotics, Classics to Bikes — all together to celebrate everything automotive! Let’s show the rest of Australia why CC&C has been the longest continually running Cars and Coffee meet in the country.

For More Information CLICK HERE

york motor show hsvnc club display

Date: Sunday 30th August 2026

Time: 8am – 3pm

Location: York Motor Museum

Details: This event is free to attend and welcomes all Holden & GM vehicles to participate in a fantastic display.

For More Information CLICK HERE

The post Car Events for AUGUST 2026 in WA 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.

If you love classic Ford Falcons and Australian muscle cars, this Ford XY GT Replica is one you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of Aussie Garage, we visit Motivation Garage and Cleveland Spares to check out a beautifully restored Falcon finished in the iconic Yellow Glow colour. Under the bonnet is the legendary 351 Cleveland V8, paired with a tough Top Loader four-speed manual gearbox, delivering the raw performance and feel that made the XY GT a legend.

Built to Capture the Original GT Spirit

With genuine XY GT Falcons now extremely valuable, high-quality replicas have become a popular way to enjoy the look, sound, and feel of this iconic Australian muscle car.

Marcus from Motivation Garage walks us through the build, explaining the restoration process and the attention to detail required to achieve authentic GT styling.

What You’ll See in This Build

In this workshop tour, we take a closer look at:

• 351 Cleveland V8 engine
• Iconic Yellow Glow paintwork
• GT-style body and interior
• Top Loader four-speed manual gearbox
• Ford 9-inch differential
• Restoration tips and insights
• Cleveland Spares parts supply
• Motivation Garage workshop

Keeping Classic Fords on the Road

Cleveland Spares continues to support classic Ford enthusiasts with quality parts for restoration and maintenance, helping keep these Australian icons alive.

Combined with the craftsmanship of Motivation Garage, this XY GT Replica shows what’s possible when the right parts and passion come together.

Final Thoughts

Whether you dream of owning a genuine Ford XY GT or a well-built GT Replica, this Falcon proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy one of Australia’s greatest muscle car legends.

A big thank you to Marcus from Motivation Garage and the team at Cleveland Spares for giving Aussie Garage an up-close look at this incredible build.

Would you choose a genuine XY GT or a high-quality GT Replica? Let us know in the comments!

#FordXY #XYGT #FordFalcon #351Cleveland #AustralianMuscle #ClassicCars #FordAustralia #MuscleCars #AussieGarage #ClevelandSpares #MotivationGarage #GTReplica #ClassicFord #CarRestoration #FordV8

The post This XY Falcon GT Replica is an Absolute Head Turner! | Motorvation Garage appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Aussie Garage headed along to check out the event, which attracted close to its estimated 350-car capacity.

A Huge Variety of Cars

The event featured an impressive range of vehicles, including Holden Monaros, Toranas, Commodores and Statesmans, Ford Falcons and Mustangs, Chevrolet classics, Nissan GTRs, panel vans, hot rods and custom pickups.

There were also Porsche, Subaru, Volkswagen and Mazda MX-5 builds, giving visitors plenty of variety throughout the venue.

Rare HSV Walkinshaw Limousine

One of the biggest standouts was an extremely rare genuine HSV VL Walkinshaw limousine.

The unusual extended-body Walkinshaw attracted plenty of attention and was joined by several tough Holdens, turbo Falcons, detailed engine bays and beautifully presented classics.

Another unique vehicle was a Daimler Ferret military vehicle powered by a Rolls-Royce engine.

Featured Vehicles

Vehicles at Cars and Coffee Valley Sessions included:

• Genuine HSV VL Walkinshaw limousine
• Holden HQ, HK, HG and HZ Monaros
• Holden Toranas, Commodores and Statesmans
• Ford Falcons, Fairmonts and Mustangs
• Chevrolet Novas and classic pickups
• Nissan GTRs and turbo builds
• Classic panel vans and wagons
• Hot rods and custom street cars
• Porsche, Subaru, Volkswagen and MX-5 builds
• Rolls-Royce-powered Daimler Ferret

A Great Perth Car Event

Cars and Coffee Valley Sessions delivered a relaxed atmosphere, a huge variety of vehicles and another excellent showcase of Perth’s automotive community.

Events like this give owners the chance to display their pride and joy while bringing together enthusiasts from across Western Australia.

Show Aussie Garage Your Ride

Do you own a vintage, classic, muscle or modified vehicle?

Aussie Garage is always looking for interesting cars and owners to feature.

If you live in Western Australia, get in touch and tell us about your vehicle. Owners from other states are also welcome to contact us, as Aussie Garage plans to visit more locations around Australia.

Which car from Cars and Coffee Valley Sessions was your favourite? Let us know in the comments.

#CarsAndCoffee #ValleySessions #AussieGarage #PerthCarScene #SwanValley #ClassicCars #AustralianMuscleCars #CarShow #AussieGarageTV

The post Cars and Coffee Valley Sessions | Muscle Cars, Classics & Custom Builds appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.

Jeremy takes us through the history of the van, its famous airbrushed artwork, its tough burnout setup and the work completed to bring it back mechanically and electrically.

A Legendary Australian Panel Van

VANTASY is more than just a burnout car. It is a well-known part of Australia’s panel van and custom car history.

Australian panel vans became hugely popular during the 1970s and 1980s, with owners adding custom paint, murals, detailed interiors and high-performance engines.

VANTASY continues that tradition with its unmistakable artwork and aggressive burnout setup.

The artwork featured on the van is shown for automotive history and educational purposes. It reflects a particular era of Australian custom car styling and is not intended to offend or promote inappropriate content.

Blown Small Block Chevy Power

Under the bonnet is a blown small block Chevy running on methanol, built to make serious power and destroy tyres.

The engine is backed by a tough Powerglide transmission and a Ford 9-inch differential.

This is a proven combination for burnout competition, providing strong power, simple gear changes and reliable wheel speed.

Jeremy explains that building a burnout car is not only about horsepower. The engine must also survive high RPM, extreme heat and limited airflow while the car is surrounded by tyre smoke.

Methanol Burnout Engine Setup

Methanol is commonly used in high-powered burnout and racing engines because it offers strong cooling properties and resistance to detonation.

However, methanol engines require careful tuning and regular maintenance.

The fuel system must supply a much greater volume than a petrol setup. Methanol can also contaminate engine oil and absorb moisture, making frequent inspections and oil changes important.

Oil Control and Engine Reliability

Oil control is one of the biggest challenges in a burnout car.

As the car changes direction, oil can move away from the pickup inside the sump. Even a short drop in oil pressure at high RPM can cause serious engine damage.

A correctly designed sump, effective baffling and regular oil checks help protect the engine.

Cooling is also critical. Burnout cars operate at high RPM while moving slowly, so there is very little natural airflow through the radiator.

The entire cooling system must be designed to work under extreme conditions.

Diff Gearing and Burnout Performance

Differential gearing has a major effect on how a burnout car performs.

The correct ratio must suit the engine’s power, tyre size, transmission and desired wheel speed.

A shorter ratio can help the engine reach its power range quickly, while a taller ratio may provide more wheel speed. The combination must allow the driver to maintain RPM without overstressing the engine.

Burnout Car Safety

Burnout cars combine high horsepower, spinning tyres, extreme heat and reduced visibility.

Important safety equipment may include:

• Roll cage
• Racing harnesses
• Fixed-back competition seat
• Fire extinguisher or suppression system
• Electrical isolation switch
• Fuel shut-off system
• Tailshaft loop
• Driver helmet and safety clothing

Safety requirements vary between events, so owners should always check the current rules before competing.

Inside the SSAR Workshop

While visiting SSAR, we also looked around the workshop and checked out several impressive builds.

The workshop included tough Holden projects, street cruisers, burnout cars, LS engines, Holden 355 strokers and a Hemi build.

It was a great example of the variety found in Australian performance workshops, from classic V8 builds to modern engine conversions.

Is VANTASY Australia’s Most Iconic Burnout Van?

VANTASY combines Australian panel van history with modern burnout performance.

Its 1971 HG Panel Van body, famous artwork and blown methanol small block Chevy make it instantly recognisable.

There have been many legendary burnout cars in Australia, but few have the same history, appearance and personality as VANTASY.

Let us know in the comments:

Is VANTASY one of the most iconic panel vans in Australian burnout history?

Thanks to SSAR

A massive thank you to Jeremy and the team at SSAR — South Street Auto Repairs for welcoming Aussie Garage into the workshop and giving us the opportunity to get up close with VANTASY.

Make sure you check out SSAR and support the businesses helping to build and preserve Australian automotive culture.

Show Us Your Ride

Do you own a vintage, classic, custom or muscle car with an interesting story?

Aussie Garage is looking for vehicles and owners to feature.

Those based in Western Australia can contact us about arranging an interview. We are also collecting contacts from other parts of Australia for future filming trips.

Watch the full episode, subscribe to Aussie Garage and share the video with another automotive enthusiast.

We’ll see you in the garage.

#VANTASY #SSAR #BurnoutCars #HGPanelVan #Holden #BlownChevy #AustralianMuscle #PanelVan #CarCulture #WorkshopTour #AussieGarageTV

The post Australia’s Most Iconic Burnout Van! VANTSY Up Close appeared first on Australia's Home of Classic Cars, Muscle Cars & Automotive Events.