More than 650 trucks pulled into the Hawkesbury Showground in September to celebrate the 2024 Clarendon Kenworth Klassic. As ever, the show went off in grand style.
The Clarendon Kenworth Klassic Truck Show is held annually over two days in September with the Clarendon Classic Rally and the Sydney Antique Machinery Club. The weather, as it often does, played its part this year, with Sydney turning on a beautiful couple of days for an unforgettable event as more than 650 Kenworth trucks rolled in, parking proudly on the grass at the Hawkesbury Showground and creating a dazzling display of automotive history. The bright sunshine lit up the rows of trucks, making the polished chrome gleam and the vibrant paint jobs pop against the blue sky.
There’s something truly special about the Klassic. Bruce Gunter and Brendon Ryan have been running the event for a while, with a view to keeping the mateship alive. Undoubtedly, events like this are more than just a static display. They’re a community gathering, a chance to catch up with old mates, swap stories and reminisce about the good old days on the road. Whether it’s hearing about someone’s latest load or catching up on family news, it’s clear that the camaraderie among truckies is strong.
Events like this bring everyone together, and in a world that’s always moving, it’s nice to slow down, share a laugh and appreciate the bonds that tie people in this industry together.
It wasn’t just the sheer number of Kenworths that made the day remarkable. Everything about the event screamed classic and nostalgic, with historic cars and motorbikes, tractors and even military vehicles on display. Everywhere you looked, something grabbed your attention and stirred a sense of awe, whether it was the polished chrome of a veteran truck or the weathered elegance of a vintage motorbike. The tractors, too, were a draw, showcasing everything from restored farming machinery to machines still in daily use.
Even though we see the big rigs powering down the highways night after night, there’s something about seeing these machines up close, polished to perfection, parked in rows under the sun. The opportunity to admire the craftsmanship, past and present, is always a thrill.
You could spend hours wandering between the rigs, getting a closer look at the details that make each one unique. You can’t help but appreciate the dedication it takes to keep them looking their best.
The Klassic seems to only get bigger and better over the years. Every year, there are more trucks, more people and more things to see, whether it’s a beautifully restored vintage truck you’ve never seen before or a conversation with someone who shares your passion for the industry.
For families, it’s a fun day out. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can marvel at the size of the trucks and imagine themselves behind the wheel.
The show’s highlights were the W-Models, which turned out in huge numbers. With their unmistakable lines and reputation, they have a special place in the hearts of many truckies.
It was impressive to see so many of them in one place, some meticulously restored, others proudly wearing the patina of years spent on the road. The variety of trucks on display ranged from the true historic veterans, machines that have seen decades of service and still look as powerful as ever, to the sleek, modern rigs that represent the cutting edge of trucking technology.
What really sets this event apart, though, is the atmosphere. It’s not just about the machines; it’s about the people and the shared passion that brings everyone together. Events like the Klassic make you realise that trucking is not just a job; it’s a way of life. The Klassic celebrates that life, honouring the machines and the people who keep them running.
