Rattletrap: A Tribute to Racing Heritage
It was all engines go at Crowdy Head Beach as more than 1,500 fans gathered under blue skies for the eighth edition of Rattletrap, a beachside celebration of vintage speed, grit, and nostalgia. Rattletrap first began back in 2015 from the excitement created after watching videos of other similar events, which is where the Drag-ens Hot Rod Club (one of the oldest Hot Rod clubs in Australia) came up with the idea to create a period- correct event for Australian hot rodders.
With the location of Crowdy Head chosen, which is partway between Brisbane and Melbourne on Australia’s East Coast, it was the perfect location, and the ideal environment to race in too, with compacted sand and ample room to race during high tide. And as we all know, hot rods and motorcycles often go hand in hand, which is why including bikes in the event was a great addition.
TBeach Racing: Thrills on the Sand and Sea Breeze
Focusing on classic American, British and European motorcycles, it’s a great spectacle as pairs line up next to each other to race down the beach for an eighth of a mile, stage at the other end of the beach before returning on your second run. And each race is started with the Drag-ens’ members, partners and daughters in traditional fashion with a lady waving a flag while jumping in the air, and when she touches the sand with her feet – it’s go time!
They’ve even built a commentary tower and starting towers replicating those used back in the 1940s, while the staff and helpers all wear white overalls and hats from the period, all adding to the exciting atmosphere.
Rattletrap 2025: Honoring Tradition with a Modern Twist
Once again Rattletrap transformed the scenic mid-north coast shoreline into a rolling showcase of vintage charm and raw mechanical power. Sixty vintage hot rods lined up alongside 18 roaring vintage motorcycles, each one lovingly restored and ready to tear down the sand. Among the standout stars were couple Nick and Mel Harris, who took their rivalry to the sand in what fans dubbed the ‘Battle of the Harleys’.
Nick thundered down the track on his 1951 rigid Harley-Davidson, while Mel held her own with a fierce run on her 1941 rigid Harley. It was a photo-worthy moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the day: vintage machines, friendly competition, and good old-fashioned fun. Like every year, it’s great to see so many volunteers donating their time to make Rattletrap such a success.
It takes a lot of planning organising an event like this along with support from the council, police and local residents. And with the sound of vintage engines echoing along the beach and the smell of sea salt and gasoline in the air, Rattletrap again delivered a one-of-a-kind experience that blended community, nostalgia, and pure, sandy excitement.
So if you’re keen for a great weekend away, make sure you keep an eye out for Rattletrap in 2026, especially if you like stepping back in time…
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