The cancellation of the 2020 McLaren Vale Vintage and Classic event has taken a fortuitous turn because of the generosity of its entrants.

Even though this year’s event did not go ahead because of concerns over the Covid-19 pandemic and restrictions on crowds, McLaren Vale community groups are still set to benefit.

Although refunds were offered, 90 per cent of the record number of entrants decided to donate their entry fee toward the event’s nominated charities: McLaren Vale and District War Memorial Hospital, the McLaren Vale and McLaren Flat CFS units, and Southern Koala Rescue.

It’s the first year Southern Koala Rescue has been included among the event’s nominated charities. Presentations will be made to the groups shortly.

The committee will now launch into preparations for the 2021 event.

According to event chair Trevor Sharp, first steps include talking with wineries and sponsors to gauge their support for the event in view of how Covid-19 has affected their businesses. 

“So we will be busy over the coming months establishing our support base and gearing up for another great event,” says Trevor.

The committee announced the cancellation of its 2020 event on 15 March.

“This step has been taken with heavy heart but full awareness of the need to ensure public safety at an event that was anticipated to draw in excess of 15,000 local, South Australian and interstate visitors to the Grand Parade on McLaren Vale Main Street on Sunday April 5, 2020,” Trevor said at the time.

“Sadly, we have had no other choice but to cancel the event.

“Wineries have geared up to welcome entrants and visitors as this is one of their major tourism events. 

“They are of course disappointed but understand that this was our only and realistic option”.

A record number of entries from vintage and classic car and motorcycle owners had been received for the 2020 event, which would have been the 15th one held.