Businessman Clive Palmer’s passion for luxury and classic cars has been rewarded at a prestigious auto show that attracted about 20,000 people.
Mr Palmer was victorious at the Concours d’Elegance on Hastings Street at Noosa, where his 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Aravis Special was recognised as best car of the show.
It came just days after he gained approval to build Australia’s largest car museum west of Brisbane.
The Noosa event showcased rare and desirable cars from around the world.
Mr Palmer stole the show with his classic eight-cylinder Bugatti, which has been displayed at events around the world, including the 2005 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it won first in class.
The Bugatti was later displayed in the Mullin Automotive Museum.
Following Mullin’s death in 2023, this historic Bugatti set a world record for the marque at auction, continuing its legacy as a marvel of automotive history.
Mr Palmer’s 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Aravis Special is regarded as a masterpiece of automotive artistry, styled by Jean Bugatti and crafted by Gangloff.
Named ‘Aravis’ after a mountain pass in the French Alps, the model is extraordinarily rare, being one of only four created, and one of just two built on the supercharged Type 57C chassis.
Originally delivered to renowned Bugatti racing driver Maurice Trintignant, the vehicle was raced at the 1939 Grand Prix du Comminges.
The Bugatti takes a prized place in Mr Palmer’s extensive collection of about 1000 prestige cars and motorcycles.
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His car was one of several to capture the attention of judges and car enthusiasts at the Noosa Concours d’Elegance.
The event, a highlight on the national automotive calendar, drew a crowd of close to 20,000 people.
There was an array of classic, vintage and super cars. Each vehicle, meticulously curated, told a unique story of craftsmanship, engineering and elegance.
The event was organised by the Hastings Street Association.
Local businesses along Hastings Street participated with special events and live music adding to the festive atmosphere.
President of Hastings Street Association Ben Orton said the event was a “resounding success”.
“The enthusiasm and support from our community, participants, and sponsors have been nothing short of extraordinary,” he said.
“This event has once again showcased the unique beauty and spirit of Hastings Street, bringing together Australia’s finest ensemble of classic and unique cars for a truly unforgettable experience.”
The Sunshine Coast Jet Centre presented a spectacular addition to the event as reigning Red Bull Air Race world champion and former Royal Australian Air Force pilot Matt Hall took to the skies.
Award winners
- People’s Choice Award presented by Qatar Executive: 1994 McLaren F1
- Next Gen Award Winner presented by Sleeping Beauties Restoration: 1994 McLaren F1
- Spirit of Noosa Concours d’Elegance: 1932 Chevrolet BA Confederate Moonlight Speedster
- Best Modern Car presented by Tom Offermann Real Estate: 2016 Aston Martin GT12 Vantage
- Best Classic Car presented by Tom Offermann Real Estate: 1964 Ferrari 250LM
- Best in Show presented by Tom Offermann Real Estate: 1938 Bugatti Type 57C Aravis Special 2
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