REPORT - 2023 All Ford Day
Words & Photos: Mike Ryan
Almost 100 years ago, the first Australian-made Fords, a batch of Model Ts, were assembled at a warehouse in Geelong. Full production followed, and although Broadmeadows took over manufacturing in 1959, Geelong remained a “Ford town” and is still regarded as such to this day. That heritage means it’s no surprise that the annual All Ford Day in the City by the Bay draws Blue Oval devotees from far and wide.
Already regarded as one of the largest single-make car gatherings in Australia, the All Ford Day pretty much cemented that status this year, with event organisers reporting that more than 1,500 Fords and Ford family vehicles attended the 32nd edition, which is a new record for the event. Similarly, in excess of 7,000 spectators this year set another record, despite morning mist and cloudy conditions.
“We were hoping for a big crowd this year, but we couldn’t have predicted such a massive turnout from both spectators and the overall Ford community. We had a blast hosting such a popular event and hope to continue its success next year,” said Nicholas Heath, Event Director.
Those huge numbers vindicate the event’s relocation a couple of years ago to Eastern Park on the fringe of the Geelong CBD. After being held on the grounds of Deakin University in Waurn Ponds for decades (and operated as a fundraiser by the Geelong chapter of Kiwanis International back then), the All Ford Day was arguably outgrowing that venue, but Eastern Park, with its large ovals and surrounding parkland, has provided ample room for the Ford faithful to congregate.
Trade stands, food vendors, an auction of memorabilia and kids’ activities make the All Ford Day a family event, but there’s no denying the cars are the stars!
From hot rods to FPV GTs and classic Escorts to modern Mustangs, this year’s 1,500+ gathering was diverse for a one-make show, but even if you’ve been to the All Ford Day multiple times, you’re sure to spot something you’ve never seen before, like the FPV F6X and ZD Fairlane hearse that were on display this year.
As the All Ford Day has grown, it’s also evolved, so it’s been interesting to see how the mix of display cars has changed over time. Model Ts, Model As and other non-rodded pre-war Fords are in the minority these days, while the current generation Mustang and the last of the Aussie-built Falcons have boomed and were present in big numbers this year.
Some may bemoan the change, but looking at these developments in a positive light, it shows that the car enthusiast hobby is alive and well, meaning it should continue into future generations. Who knows, in a few years’ time, we may be seeing Mustang Mach E EVs alongside chrome bumper classics at All Ford Day!
With more than 1.500 cars on show, it’s impossible to feature everything that was at All Ford Day 2023, but what’s presented here will give you a taste. . . and maybe a desire to make the trip to Geelong for next year’s All Ford Day.
For more details, go to: allfordday.org.au
