Classic bike show helps hospital raise funds

THE North Coast Classic Motorcycle Show and Swap is set to run for the fifth time with funds raised going to the Ballina Hospital Auxiliary.

The popular event is tailored specifically to motorcycles and will be held at the Alstonville Showground on Sunday, February 16.

Historic and classic bikes will be on display in the main pavilion with plenty of people expected to attend from across NSW and Queensland.

Event organiser Col McAndrew said it is the only classic bike show and swap meet in the region.

“My wife Nancy and I organise this with the assistance of friends who are members of several local Motorcycle Groups,” he said.

“We attract show entries from Sydney in the south, Inverell to the west and Sunshine Coast to the north.

“Many spectators ride to the show and there is a display of their modern bikes in the parking area. The event is getting bigger each year.”

One of the largest swap traders in Australia, Cob Smith, is a regular at the event.

The Alstonville Show Society contributes each year with catering and makes sure there is plenty of undercover space for the bikes.

The show society is supported by the North Coast Classic and Customs Club and The Ballina Men’s Shed.

The men’s shed also provide trophies which are awarded on the day.

All proceeds from the event are donated directly to the auxiliary, with the hospital group having just raised $5000 for its Christmas appeal in December.

The bike show runs from 8am-1pm with a gold coin donation for entry.

Camping is available at the showground.