Community
18 September, 2026
Motor show revs up school yard
CLASSIC, modern and custom machines stole the show at the Innisfail East State School Car Show and Swap Meet, where perfect weather and a huge crowd helped turn last month’s event into one of the school’s biggest community gatherings in years.
CLASSIC, modern and custom machines stole the show at the Innisfail East State School Car Show and Swap Meet, where perfect weather and a huge crowd helped turn last month’s event into one of the school’s biggest community gatherings in years.
Hundreds streamed through the gates to admire more than 50 vehicles, from hot rods and muscle cars to British classics and utes, creating a lively atmosphere across the school grounds.
The event was the brainchild of police liaison officer Stacey Kneubuhler, the school’s adopt-a-cop, who spent countless hours gathering prizes, rallying support from local businesses, selling tickets and working closely with the P&C Association.
“With no school fete for the past two years, I wanted to try something different as a fundraiser,” she said.
“As a former student, it’s great to give back to the school that gave me so much.”
Principal Leoni Robinson said the day highlighted the strength of community spirit.
“It has been wonderful to see the overwhelming support and a privilege to meet so many community members in a relaxed environment,” she said.
“Funds raised will go straight back into student resources and continuous improvement.”
Motoring enthusiasts from Cairns, the Tablelands and across the Cassowary Coast spent the day inspecting the impressive line-up. Feedback was glowing, with Dave Pontiac calling it “the best car show yet I’ve been on the Cassowary Coast,” while Cody Bainbridge described it as “an awesome day” and Brooke Gregory had praise for the “fantastic turnout” and “awesome job by all involved.”
The day featured a massive raffle with a huge wheelbarrow of prizes worth $1500, a cake and sweets stall, hot coffees and a sizzling barbecue run by school staff serving steak burgers, bacon and egg burgers and icy cold drinks.
A special acknowledgement was given to the volunteers, school staff, parents, families and the P&C Association for their hard work, as well as sponsors.
Five judges from Repco faced the tough task of selecting winners across multiple categories.
Award winners
Best Chev: Steve Mackinnon - 1975 Corvette
Best British: Paul Turner - 1954 Alvis
Best Hotrod: Phil Heathwood - 1944 Ford Pickup
Top Sedan: Brett Mackereth - 1969 XW Ford
Best Ford: A. Bowland - 1968 Mustang
Best Mopar: Jarden Bidnar - 1939 Plymouth
Best Holden: Sam Gravagna - 1968 HK Monaro
Best Original: Simon Birchley - 1959 Bolgward Isabella Coup
Best Ute/Truck: Andrew Campbell - Holden Rodeo
People’s Choice: Scott Green - 1973 Torana
Car of the Show: Brett MacKereth - 1969 XW Ford
Supporter Award: Andy
Read More: Innisfail