Community
25 March, 2026
Show and shine success
THE Cobden Pioneer Park’s Swap Meet, Market Day and Motor Show was a major success, drawing people in from across the south west right into Cobden’s own backyard.
The day, which was held on Sunday, March 15, saw activities for all ages, right from kids completing a build-a-bucket trail to adults entering the motor show and shine to show off their old vehicles.
“It was a great turnout – there was beautiful weather,” Progressing Cobden president Misty Angus said.
“We had our build-a-bucket trail where the kids buy an empty bucket and travel around stalls and stops throughout the park and market and fill the bucket up by the end of the day, which was hugely popular.
“We had the State Emergency Service (SES) do a display, we had our car, bike and motor show and we had a barbecue and outdoor games from the shire.
“We had balloons and bubbles and lots of low-cost family activities along with the miniature trains open and the mini golf.
“It was a one stop shop really for Cobden – it was a great place to take the family.”
Mrs Angus said there were plenty of entries in the show and shine despite numbers being down on previous years.
“The show and shine was probably down on other years but I’m going to suggest that was probably a fuel price issue because they call them gas guzzlers for a reason,” she said.
“It was still a fantastic show, they take such good care of their vehicles, it’s amazing.
“We had Adam Higham from Adam’s Bikes come and judge and give out prizes for best car, best bike, most unique, judge’s choice and people’s choice, which they voted on throughout the day.”
Mrs Angus said events like these were great to bring outsiders into Cobden and show what the town has to offer.
“These events are frequented by not just Cobden residents but they certainly bring people in from all over the district,” she said.
“We had quite a few entries for our car show from Warrnambool and Colac.
“We get people from Geelong coming down – it definitely brings in outside people which is fantastic for Cobden as a whole.
“Thanks to our sponsors and our volunteers on the day because without them we can’t run events and can’t do those kinds of activities for Cobden.”
Read More: Cobden