Annual car show set for July

They're antique, they're unique, and they draw a big crowd to downtown Stephenville every two years.

The Joe MacNeil Antique and Unique Car Show is set for July 31, with downtown entertainment by Reg O'Quinn and the Bee Bops.

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the general public can view some of the most interesting cars in the province.

The show is held every two years and bears the name of Joe MacNeil, who was known throughout Bay St. George and beyond as an avid car collector and restorer.

"His passion for restoring these old cars and just showing them to anybody who would drop by his garage was a part of the legacy of Joe MacNeil," says committee member Bob Byrnes.

Mr. MacNeil entered his cars in the very first show. After his passing the committee decided to name the show after him, in his honour.

"We were very pleased to have his wife present the plaque to the best car the first year," says Mr. Byrnes.

People come from all over the province to participate in the annual showing, says Mr. Byrnes.

"We advertise throughout the province. In the collectors area of car enthusiasts the word spreads about the Stephenville show, the fact that its downtown, its free to the public," he says.

"It's enjoyable not only for the car owners and public, but the hospitality of the people of Stephenville is one of the things bringing people back each year. The owners look forward to coming out and putting their cars on display."

Mr. Byrnes says it's still amazing to him to see the passion not only the car owners have, but the people who come out to see them as well.

You can check out the Joe MacNeil collection of classic cars, and some other fine and rare beauties on Main St. in Stephenville on July 31. In the event of rain on the day of, the show will be held over until Sunday.

Anyone interested in putting a car in the show can contact a committee member: Bob Byrnes, Rick Callahan, Danny Stapleton, Darryl Rideout, Cliff Osmond and John White.

reporter@thegeorgian.ca