A motoring festival in Joondalup which was forced to slam the brakes in November with just more than a day’s notice due to bushfires in nearby Mariginiup is preparing to return.
The Joondalup Festival of Motoring has been rescheduled to May 4 and 5 in the Joondalup city centre, bringing a weekend-long spectacle.
Event director Justin Hunt said he was greatly appreciative of the public’s positive response to the difficult decision to reschedule.
“Even though we knew postponing the event was the right thing to do on a number of fronts, we weren’t prepared for the outpouring of support for our decision from both stakeholders and the wider community,” Mr Hunt said.
“We’re now looking forward to the rescheduled date and putting on an exhilarating program of motoring-themed activities and experiences.”
Joondalup mayor Albert Jacob praised the response of the organisers.
“It was the right call by the event organisers to postpone the event in November out of respect of those affected by those terrible fires,” he said.
“I encourage people to get out in big numbers over the first weekend of May to experience this two-day celebration of all things fast and furious.
“If ever an event deserved the support of our community, it’s the Tyrepower Joondalup Festival of Motoring.”
The revised line-up also has a new addition, the JFOM Trash or Treasure Car Jumble Sale. Attendees can stroll through a treasure trove of automotive wonders, providing a golden opportunity to snag an elusive automotive part.
Naming rights sponsors Tyrepower have also agreed to continue with their maiden sponsorship of the event.
Mr Hunt said Tyrepower’s understanding and patience was appreciated during the period of uncertainty.
“We’re lucky to have sponsors like Tyrepower who genuinely love the Festival format and want to support community motoring events,” Mr Hunt said.
“Their enthusiasm plus the anticipation for the rescheduled event from participants, other sponsors and the local community has really spurred the event team on.”
Tyrepower general manager Dale Klompmaker said there was no question whether the group would renew their commitment to the event.
“Last year’s postponement was a disappointment, not just for us but for the entire community eagerly awaiting the festival,” he said.
“Our hearts went out to the Wanneroo community affected by the bushfires and we extend our gratitude to the fire and emergency service workers and volunteers for their incredible efforts.
“As we gear up for this year’s event, the anticipation is bringing greater excitement and we’re looking forward to sharing this unique experience with the local community, WA and all visitors.”
Rejoining for the 2024 event is Steel Bumpers and Beverages with the Northern Steel Car Club, Classic Cars and Coffee, JDM and the Trevors Carpets Display Zone. Adding to the festival atmosphere will be a selection of food vans, beverages, including a licenced area, and live entertainment.
The festival highlight, the Tyrepower Joondalup City Sprint, will be back on the Sunday when cars take on 2.2km of closed city streets in time trial format to prove they are more go than show.
There will be road closures around the Joondalup city centre on Sunday, May5; access maps are available at jfom.com.au.
