Flower power to reign as classic cars hit town

MORE than 140 classic cars will parade down the main street of Queenscliff tomorrow when Targa Florio fever hits town.

The Targa Florio Australian Tribute is an event for classic cars produced between 1907 and 1976, where they compete over four days on Victoria’s open roads at regulated speed.

The cars will sweep through Queenscliff on Friday December 1 when they parade along Hesse Street en route to Sorrento.

“Council is thrilled that the 101st anniversary of the Targa Florio is coming to the Borough of Queenscliffe,” mayor Tony Francis said.

“The procession of classic cars will create a spectacle as they make their way down Hesse Street.”

To celebrate the first time the event has left Italy, local traders are encouraged to “put your geraniums out” to add pops of colour to the streetscape and create a festive atmosphere that will carry into Christmas and the holiday season.

Rip Chamber Inc. committee member Catherine Rush said the idea of using geraniums was an organic and simple way to add vibrant colours of red and green, which also form part of Italy’s national flag.

“The timing couldn’t be better as traders can celebrate the Targa Florio Australian Tribute coming to Queenscliff and then continue to use the colour-scheme throughout Christmas and beyond,” Ms Rush said.

“The whole street will look fantastic.”

Local traders wanting to join in on the festive fun can order geraniums from Catherine Stevens at Citrine Essentials, 26/30–32 Hesse Street Queenscliff, or phone 5258 5378.

See page 27 for more on the Targa Florio route.