GEORGE NEWS - The automotive industry is full of creativity and innovation, and there is no end to it yet.
Sharing a brief history of this fascinating industry, Allewijn Dippenaar introduced the theme for the 2026 George Old Car Show: 'Pioneers of Motoring', at the launch at the Marriott Protea Hotel King George last Friday, 28 November.
The 29th George Old Car Show will take place at the Eden Technical High School on Valentine's Day, 14 February - a highlight for any lover of old cars. Instead of the usual two-day event, it will be hosted as a one-day event from next year onwards.
The launch event was attended by George Mayor Browen Johnson, members of the Southern Cape Old Car Club (SCOCC), sponsors, representatives of the George Municipality, including George Tourism, and the media.
Waldo Scribante, chairperson of the SCOCC and founder of Scribs BENZeum, said the show will celebrate 140 years since the first motor vehicle was patented and 100 years since Mercedes-Benz joined the industry, marking the occasion with a rare engine collection on display.
"A passion for old cars is anything but old," said Scribante.
Next year also marks the 20th Vet Tour - a pre-show road run for veteran and vintage vehicles, organised by SCOCC - which will depart from Prince Albert on Friday 13 February and, once it arrives safely in George, will add a special feature to complement the vehicles on display at the show.
Johnson said the accommodation sector benefits from the 12 000 visitors at the George Old Car Show and thanked the chief organiser, Dippenaar, and his committee for their dedication to the event.
Dippenaar took the guests on a brief story tour of over 150 years of automotive history, honouring pioneers from Isaac de Rivaz to Henry Ford, and modern innovators like Elon Musk and Mary Barra.
Last year, a generous amount of R300 000 was donated to service organisations such as Rotary, Round Table, Vryburgers, schools (Eden Technical High School, Carpe Diem School and Glenwood), as well as FirstCare Wildfire Support and the SPCA. Every ticket sold serves a meaningful purpose, the organisers said.
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