All revved up for Cruisin’ Caboolture

The car enthusiast who took out the top gong at the first ever Cruisin’ Caboolture is all set to show his vehicle at the 2024 event.

Doug Matthews picked up the coveted Best In Show award with his white 1940 Chevrolet Pickup and says he almost missed claiming the prize.

“My wife and I were getting ready to leave with our grandkids when they called out my name,” Doug says.

“I thought they were joking.

“We took the grandkids and they’re four and two and we didn’t expect to win anything with the car.

“If you’ve been doing car shows they normally have to have glossy paint.

“The judges said the more they looked at it, the more they appreciated the minor details.

“Winning that giant trophy – I thought I’d won the NRL Grand Final.”

Building from the ground up

Doug worked on the Chevvy over about six years and says he estimates the actual time taken to create his pride and joy was between 18 months and two years.

“I used to have my own business and had restoration products for cars.

“I sold bits and pieces to a gentleman on the Darling Downs who had an old Morris Minor.

“We started talking about cars and I told him I’d like to build an old Chevvy truck because my grandfather had one in the ’30s.

“Then he turned up to the business I had at Brendale with this old truck body – all I had was the cabin,” Doug explains.

“I bought the chassis from a ’28 A Model Ford car – I’m the ultimate recycler.”

“It gets a lot of people’s reactions because it’s an old-style rusty old thing but inside it’s been detailed - it’s a bit of nostalgia.”

Fun for all ages

Doug says he’s looking forward to the 2024 Cruisin’ Caboolture because the event’s not just about cars.

“We will be there – it was a great event, it really was.

“It’s not just for if you have a car – the amount of spectators was amazing – and the kids were entertained.

“For me, being a car guy, it was great walking around and looking at all the other cars and having a chat - you can get involved and enjoy the camaraderie.”

Spectacular fusion of cars, music and family fun

Start your engines and get ready for an exhilarating experience as Cruisin' Caboolture roars into action.

The James St precinct in Caboolture will transform into a vibrant hub from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, April 28 with entertainment, revving engines, and family-friendly activities.

Prepare for a thrilling afternoon featuring a Show & Shine Car show with more than 100 stunning vehicles, live music and an array of free children's activities.

Enjoy the event while sipping local craft brews and nibbling delectable treats from an array of food trucks.

Cruisin' Caboolture is designed to be an all-encompassing experience, perfect for families looking to enjoy quality entertainment while admiring elegant cars in the heart of Caboolture.

The event's program promises non-stop excitement from 10am to 3pm, with a line-up of captivating acts and local talents, as well as pin-up girls and a new exit parade.

Free kids’ entertainment includes face painting and rock climbing.

Show 'n' Shine

Are you a motoring enthusiast eager to showcase your pride and joy to the world?

Join us for the Cruisin' Caboolture Show 'n' Shine!

We're on the lookout for the best Classic, Modern, Muscle Car or Hot Rod, and Custom Modified Vehicles. Complete the registration forms by April 5 to be considered for the competition.

Award categories

• Best in Show
• Best Classic (1950 - 1989)
• Best Modern (1990 or newer)
• Best Muscle Car or Hot Rod
• Best Modified
• Councillor's Choice Award
• People’s Choice Award

Register for the show and stay up to date here.

Event snapshot

When: Sunday, April 28

Time: 10am-3pm

Location: James St Precinct, Caboolture

Entry: FREE