Third annual Natasha Paterson Car & Truck show brings classics to the park

Written By BRIAN LOCKHART

The weather cooperated nicely, which in car show circles means everyone put a final polish on their vehicles before arriving at the Natasha Paterson Memorial Car & Truck Show in Shelburne.

The event got underway on Sunday, August 19, at Natasha Paterson Memorial Park.

Proceeds from the event go to local children's charities.

There was a good collection of classic and vintage cars at this year's show – over 150 vehicles were parked in rows on the grass at the park. Everything from old classics from the 1930's to 60' and 70's muscle cars were on display.

This year there was a special edition with a vintage motorcycle show that featured some well restored bikes from the 70's, and a couple that were built back in the 40's, and 30's.

“This is the third annual event. We have 153 cars here,” explained organizer Duncan Paterson. “We have participant's choice voting. It's the guys that are actually in the show that are voting. We have Natasha's best friend pick two cars that she liked – It's called the Natasha's Choice award.”

In total there are 27 awards handed out at the show.

“We have cars from Barrie, Brampton, Mississauga, Orillia, all over the place,” Paterson said.

As the cars rolled in and took their place, visitors strolled along the rows of vintage vehicles admiring the condition of some very well restored classics.

Car owners are enthusiastic about sharing information about their vintage vehicles and each car had a placard attached giving the year, make, model, and owner.

The raised $12,000 this year and the funds will be donated to Dufferin child and Family Services, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Feral Cat Rescue in Shelburne.

The annual event is held in memory of Natasha Paterson, a 12 year-old girl who died tragically at the park prior to the Fiddle Festival parade in 2015.