South Australia’s biggest country music and motorsport celebration, The Bend Classic presented by BURSON AUTO PARTS, has wrapped up after an electrifying three-day weekend (October 24–26) at the Shell V-Power Motorsport Park last night.
From the roar of the crowd to the roar of the engines, what a hell of a hayride it was. Tailem Bend fortunately dodged the worst of Adelaide’s rainy weekend weather, and the family-friendly Bend Classic once again proved why it takes pole position as Australia’s premier value-for-money celebration of cars, country music and camping.
As the classic race cars thundered, and the greatest in Australian country music performed live under the stars – the festival delivered on all levels with non-stop thrills, spills and entertainment for every member of the family (and there were plenty of those!).
Shining in what was a triumphant return, festival headliner Kasey Chambers brought the house down on Saturday night with an awe-inspiring performance fresh off her #1 album Backbone and national tour. Her return to The Bend Classic was the stuff that country music dreams are made of, as Kasey led fans through song after singalong, as they sung and clung onto every word. The Bend Classic’s homecoming queen is also undoubtedly the Queen of Australian Country Music.
On Friday night Travis Collins and Kaylee Bell showed exactly why they are at the forefront of their genre. On Saturday, Casey Barnes performed like the chart-topper that he is, while The Wolfe Brothers and Max Jackson continued their love affair with SA audiences. Also on the podium were Kingswood, who pulled double duty with sets on Saturday and Sunday, and doubling even further as the Shake & Bake DJs throughout the weekend.
There was both horsepower and hilarity trackside, as The Bend Classic roared and rumbled with Classic Car Racing, Hillclimb action, and the hugely popular debut of Lawn Mower Racing. Automobile afficionados revelled at the world first Aston Martin collection assembled by Sam Shahin, head of the Motorsport Park. The collection included an Aston Martin DB5 made famous by James Bond in the 1964 film, Goldfinger, one of the most recognisable cars in cinematic history.
The heat was on at BBQ @ The Bend as some of the best pitmasters in the country returned to Tailem Bend for South Australia’s biggest weekend of barbecue competition. Kane Rankin from Shepparton, Victoria, seared his way to victory in Friday’s Steak Shootout, earning his golden ticket to represent Australia at the World Championship Steak Cookoff in Dallas, Texas next year.
Saturday saw Butchers Axe BBQ carve out their first ever Grand Champion title, toppling reigning powerhouse Dusty Que and putting an end to their bid for a historic three-peat.
The Bend Classic went beyond music and motorsport, with wood chopping, whip cracking, line dancing, kids’ entertainment zones, and the Shotgun Willie’s country activation, there was entertainment at each and every turn.
As ever, camping under the stars provided sweet contrast to the full-throttle festival vibes, with families soaking up the outback atmosphere and unbeatable value.
Alistair MacDonald, CEO, Shell V-Power Motorsport Park at The Bend: “From world firsts to fan favourites and everything in between – The Bend Classic has once again delivered an exceptional event. The atmosphere throughout the weekend reflected the passion, energy, and community spirit that continue to define The Bend.
“What began as a bold concept has now cemented itself as a signature event on South Australia’s calendar – celebrating the very best of Australian motoring culture and country music. We’re immensely proud of what’s been achieved and remain committed to building on this momentum in the years ahead.”
Edwin Van Der Graaf, SA/WA State Manager, Presenting Partner – Burson Auto Parts: “It’s been fantastic to see The Bend Classic grow and evolve, and we’re proud to continue our partnership with The Bend – a venue that shares our passion for motoring heritage and performance. Together, we’re driving even greater experiences for fans and participants alike.”
As the chequered flag waves on another great year for The Bend Classic, we say thanks to our presenting partners – Shell V-Power Motorsport Park, Burson Autoparts, Southaustralia.com – and our charity partner, Drive Against Depression. We also extend our appreciation for the overwhelming support from the public, artists, officials, volunteers and motorsport fans alike. See you next year!
