Joe Steddy Vintage Car Rally returns to Busselton

The humming rumble of classic engines and the gleam of polished chrome will soon line Busselton’s streets as the annual Joe Steddy Vintage Car Rally returns to town on September 22.

This much-loved event, hosted by the Busselton Veteran Vintage Classic Car Club, promises a day of automotive fun and nostalgia for car enthusiasts and families alike.

At the heart of this year’s rally are two uniquely rare vehicles: a 1910 Fuller Buggy and a 1929 Flint Tourer, once owned by the event’s namesake, Joe Steddy.

These treasured automobiles will take centre stage, offering a rare glimpse into automotive history.

Joe Steddy’s legacy is deeply rooted in WA soil.

Born in 1893, Steddy’s life significantly changed after serving in WWI.

In 1919, he was granted a 2,200-acre bush block near Darkan under the War Service Land Soldier Settlement Scheme.

Together with his wife Charlotte, whom he married in 1921, Steddy transformed this untouched bushland into a flourishing family farm, which they named ‘Wattle Valley’.

After 38 years of nurturing the land and raising their family, Joe retired from farming life to Bentley, Perth, where he discovered a new passion – veteran cars.

He lovingly restored a 1910 Fuller Buggy, designed initially for American ranchers navigating rough country roads.

With its high wheels (designed to cope with the deep ruts made by travelling wagons) and smooth, quiet operation, the Fuller Buggy was a marvel of its time, boasting a top speed of 15 mph.

Steddy’s enthusiasm for vintage vehicles led him to join a Veteran Car Club and acquire a 1929 Flint Tourer.

In 1967, he competed in both cars in the Veteran Car Club’s annual rally.

Joe loved the event so much that he donated $50 to the Busselton Club, which purchased a perpetual trophy for the organisation.

This act of generosity gave birth to the Joe Steddy Rally in 1969, an event cherished by car enthusiasts every year since.

His dedication to preserving automotive history led him to donate both cars to the WA Veteran Car Club, ensuring they would remain in Australia for future generations.

Rally Co-Ordinator Lyn Johnson emphasised the significance of the vehicles.

“This is a special event due to the age of the Fuller Buggy, which is classified as a veteran car,” she said.

“These are becoming rare as parts and expertise are hard to find.”

“To see the vehicle on display along with its tow vehicle, the Flint, is an absolute privilege for everyone, especially car enthusiasts.”

The day’s events kick off at 9:30am at the club’s headquarters at 84 Causeway Road, Busselton.

Visitors can admire the display of vintage vehicles and witness the Concours D’Elegance judging until 10 am.

Rally cars will compete in three different speed categories: 40km/h, 50km/h, and 60km/h.

The day concludes with a picnic lunch, allowing attendees to mingle and share their passion for classic automobiles.

The event aims to cover costs rather than generate profit, as the Busselton Veteran Car Club’s focus is giving back to the community.

“We are only charging a cold coin donation for spectators and the cost of rally entries for this event, so there won’t be a profit,” Lyn said.

“The club has previously donated $1,000 to Hospice, and we’re currently working with the CWA to help restore their hall.”

“This day is all about the love of old cars and the history that travels with them,” Lyn said.

“For spectators, it is a way of seeing the legacy of motor cars that have often been restored and brought back to life for people of the community to enjoy.”

So, for those fascinated by the charm of the past or simply looking for a fun family outing, the Joe Steddy vintage car rally offers a colourful journey through automotive history.

It’s a celebration of the cars of yesteryear and the dedication of those who preserve them for the future.

For more information about the event and the Busselton Veteran Vintage Classic Car Club visit: veterancarclubofwesternaustralia.wildapricot.org/Busselton-Branch