The National 4×4 & Outdoors Show and Fishing and Boating Show in Melbourne has wrapped up with praise and positive feedback from hundreds of exhibitors.
33,518 visitors made their way to the Melbourne Showgrounds from August 24-26, browsing from an extensive range of products, accessories and services and picking up exclusive show specials.
The Action Arena was again a family favourite, with its non-stop schedule of events and demonstrations keeping crowds entertained throughout each day.
Sam Xuereb’s Megatrax tank and Devil’s Taxi delivered a big horsepower boost, and the TJM Austruck Extreme 4×4 Competition showcased the skill required to tame the toughest terrain.
The DPChip Extreme Show and Trophykart, ATV and buggy demos utilised the custom-built dirt course to their individual strengths, and visitors relished the opportunity to test out new 4WD’s on-site.
Famous faces were one of the show’s greatest features, with visitors able to meet up with identities such as Roothy, Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt and Paul Worsteling for a photo and a chat.
Expert talks and demonstrations were popular on the WAECO Outback Stage and 3AW Fishing Stage, with visitors taking away a wealth of information and a few tall tales from names in the know.
The variety of show features and value-for-money tickets meant exhibitors were able to meet and greet with tens of thousands of new and returning customers.
Ultimate Campers’ Eamon Quinn said there was a great vibe at the event.
“The atmosphere was great, we got sales, lots of great leads and dollar-for-dollar it has been the best show of the year so far,” said Quinn.
“Our new off-road camper trailer, the Nautilus, made its Victoria debut at the show and we were delighted with the response from the crowd.
The show attracts genuinely interested off-roaders who know their stuff and have done their homework so it’s a pleasure for us to interact with them.”
First-time exhibitor PT Peg Co also enjoyed a successful show, said Director Jason Thompson.
“From my perspective the event was a resounding success,” said Thompson. “There was a real sense of community of which the other exhibitors were always willing to offer invaluable insight and assistance.
“The show was the next step in the launch of my product and lifting its profile into public awareness and I’m absolutely stoked on the back of the feedback gained and volumes moved.”
Event Manager Paul Morgan said the feedback from exhibitors and visitors was pleasing and looked forward to building the event further in future.
“We’re pleased to receive positive feedback across the board and recognise the efforts of every exhibitor to build a successful show with a great atmosphere,” said Morgan.
“Judging by the responses our industry is only going to get stronger as it maintains its focus on what visitors want without compromising on value.”
As always, there were plenty of entries received into a generous pool of prizes. Lucky winners included Leigh Walsh from Cranbourne ($5000 ARB Prize Draw), HG Malone from Marong (Roo System Door Prize) and Adam Sparks from Sunbury (WAECO fridge).
Dates for the 2013 National 4×4 & Outdoors Show and Fishing & Boating Expo will be announced shortly.
