BEACHCOM BING

WE HIT THE BEACHES OF SOUTH-EAST QUEENSLAND FOR SOME SUN-DAPPLED AUTOMOTIVE FUN AT COOLY ROCKS ON AND DOWNUNDER BEACH FEST

-  SIMON TELFORD

Downunder Beachfest

FOUNDED Beachfest in 2015, Downunder is a multi-day event run on the Sunshine Coast by the Queensland branch of the Australian Street Rod Federation.

While Beachfest activities include cruises and meet-ups and even driving events on occasion, the event is best known for the Friday-night cruise and Saturday show 'n' shine in the streets of Caloundra.

It is one hell of a picturesque spot - if you nab just the right park on the beachside, you'll be able to get a photo of your car with Moreton Island, the northernmost tip of Bribie Island and the Glasshouse Mountains in the background!

While there were a stack of hot rods, classics and lowriders on show this year, we were struck by just how many tough street cars were in attendance - we could have run a Drag Challenge Weekend using only the cars present.

The vibe was laidback and the turnout was impressive, especially when you consider that both the Winternationals and Cooly Rocks On were held on the same weekend. The Saturday show 'n' shine filled up early, so those wanting to nab a power park were up at sparrow's fart.

Next year's show is booked in for 7-11 June. While anyone can take part in the Friday-night cruise, you'll need to preregister for the show 'n' shine, so hit up beachfestdownunder.com for entry info.

Cooly Rocks On

COOLY Rocks On replaced the iconic Wintersun festival, which held its final event at Coolangatta in 2010 after a quarter of a decade. Cooly Rocks On has stuck largely to the Wintersun formula, mixing a massive car show with an impressive program of live music, organised runs and fun for the whole family.