Australian classic truck chapters often hold ‘musters’ to celebrate single brands. White, Mack and International all feature in various shows, but only one event proudly celebrates Kenworth. The Clarendon Kenworth Klassic is now one of the most significant events on the Australian truck-show calendar.

Australian classic truck chapters often hold ‘musters’ to celebrate single brands. White, Mack and International all feature in various shows, but only one event proudly celebrates Kenworth. The Clarendon Kenworth Klassic is now one of the most significant events on the Australian truck-show calendar.

Australia-built, world’s best’ is the catchphrase of Kenworth Australia and reflects the pride and reputation the Australian icon holds with transport operators and enthusiasts alike. While American in origin, the Australian model line-up and build is uniquely local.

During a chance meeting in 2012 between Bruce Gunter, a motor trimmer, now specialising in Road Transport Compliance, and David ‘Chappo’ Chapman, a former apprentice at Kenworth’s Bayswater plant, now operating his own diesel rebuilding business, Chappo had floated the idea of an event showcasing Kenworths. Both men are firm fans of the brand, and the wheels were put in motion for the first event in 2016.

The pair’s enthusiasm and vision make the Klassic the success it is today. After the enforced Covid-19 break, 17 and 18 September 2022 saw the return of this annual event. The 2022 event paid homage to the SAR, with 25 of this classic model lining up for a photoshoot on the Sunday morning.

This show was the biggest yet, with some 430 Kenworths represented, up from 386 in 2019. They spanned modest to highly restored, old to new, individual owners to fleet operators. While presentation and pride are second to none, the show’s uniqueness is that no one competes for prizes, and the absence of trophies gives the show a laidback atmosphere and a friendly and enthusiastic energy. Most exhibitors camp at the grounds in trucks, trailers or tents, the smell of barbeques cooking up a storm and a few cold ones being enjoyed. It’s a very relaxed and well- behaved vibe.

The Klassic is held in conjunction with The Clarendon Classic Rally, which offers the public more trucks of other brands to view, traction engines, stationary engines, tractor pull and a swap meet. The combined events are now considered the largest machinery and equipment display in the southern hemisphere, 2019 showcasing more than 700 pieces of equipment.

As a footnote, Bruce is the host of the Copy Southbound podcast, which enjoys a wide following in Australia and is growing in popularity in New Zealand. The podcast features interviews with retired and current transport operators and reflects on the industry’s history, characters, and current state. Copy Southbound has also partnered up with the Black Dog Institute to raise awareness of mental illness, notably depression and anxiety. It’s a subject close to Bruce’s own heart, and he is open about his struggles. In New Zealand, organisations such as Lifeline and Youthline offer support for anyone needing to talk through issues.