Come for the machines, stay for the stories.
The last weekend of August sees AMRSQ (Antique Machinery Restoration Society of Queensland) holding its 48th Annual Vintage Machinery Rally at the Woodford Showgrounds – a celebration of a multitude of different types of machines and vehicles and their place in history.
AMRSQ Secretary Ken Smith said the annual rally is where they encourage their members to display their engines, cars, tractors, trucks and steam engines.
“This machinery formed part of the history of the Caboolture region and contributed to the economic growth of the region,” Ken said.
“We also have members of other ‘like clubs’ coming from Toowoomba and Bundaberg areas.”
The event will feature stationary engines, vintage cars, trucks and tractors, working displays, a daily Grand Parade and food and drink vendors.
Preserving Mechanical History
AMRSQ Member Ian Young, who will be displaying some restored machinery, said his interest began when serving in Vietnam in the early 60s.
“People would send magazines over for us to read,” Ian said. “That’s how we learned about stock car racing – at that time it involved production-model cars that went from showroom floor to track.
“My mate was a good mechanic, and I was to drive, so our plan was to get a car and become world champions. Well, that never happened, but I started restoring old engines and it’s like a disease – you start with one but can’t stop.”
Ian has been part of AMRSQ since the early 90s and has held positions including president, secretary and information officer.
“We perpetuate skills that are dying,” he said. “Today’s vehicles are full of electronics and just put on autotunes. We have blokes who can fix starter motors, brakes, diesel motors and anything mechanical.
“I’m 80, and there are plenty of blokes older than me. We would like to encourage younger people to come and find out more. It’s great to be in a group of like-minded people and keep your hands, fingers and brain active.”
Entry is $5 per adult and free for children under 16.
AMRSQ 48th Annual Vintage Machinery Rally
- Saturday, 29 August, 9am-4pm; Sunday, 30 August, 9am-2.30pm
- Woodford Showgrounds
- 28 Neurum Road, Woodford
- Learn more here.
Read more stories from The Caboolture Guide print magazine here:
- Caboolture Connect: Updates from the Community
- Chamber Chat
- What’s Hot Around Town
- CatVideoFest 2026
- Wedding Inspiration Awaits at Queensland Brides Expo
- Organic Gardening in August
- Next Generation Art Prize Invites Young Artists To Shine
- Living Life on Butterfly Time
- The Newton Family and The Merryvale Jersey Stud
- Small Adjustments, Big Difference: Supporting Left-Handed Kids
- Students Shine as Innovation Awards Showcase Big Ideas
- PBR Monster Energy Tour Returns with Major Prize Pool
- Honouring Lives Lost On the Road
- Double Triumph Celebrates St Columban’s Sporting Spirit
- Art with Heart at Beaumont Care
