A 1959 Caddilac convertible is a former winner of 'Best in Show' at the Ocean Idlers Blast from the Past car show, taking place on Saturday, Aug. 3 from 8:00 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Coombs Fairgrounds. (Submitted by Maurice Siermachesky)

By Jordan Davidson

Ocean idlers

‘Everybody benefits:’ Coombs car show a real blast from the past

Aug 3, 2024 | 5:59 AM

COOMBS — A legendary car show is back on again this weekend in Oceanside.

The 26 edition of the Ocean Idlers Blast from the Past Car Show takes place on Saturday, Aug. 3 at the Coombs Fairgrounds, 1014 Ford Rd., with gates opening at 8:00 a.m.

Show coordinator Greg Beaveridge said over 200 cars of different varieties are expected to be on display.

“There’s 12 categories ranging in year from pre-1940’s up to after 1980. Some of them would be show cars like hot rods, some would be vintage cars, and we also have a category for rat rods, so there’s quite a variety of cars.”

He said they also allow brand-new vehicles in the show as well.

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Those interested in showing off their ride can register on their website, or show up the day of, said Beaveridge.

“If you’re going to bring in a show car there’s two ways to go: one would be to come on our website and register using the website. That’s our preferred method, however, we do get about half of our cars will come in through the gate and register right on site on Saturday morning, and that’s ok too.”

Food and other vendors will be on-site, including activities for the kids, a 50/50 draw, raffle prizes, and the trophy for ‘Best in Show’ will be awarded at the end of the event at 2:30 p.m.

The event will kick off with a local singing ‘O’Canada’, and there will also be a performance by the Mount Arrowsmith pipe band.

Proceeds from the event will go to a number of charities supported by the event in past years, including the Oceanside Hospice Society, Arrowsmith Search and Rescue, and Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock.

Beaveridge said the charity aspect of the event is something their members are really proud of.

“Our members are quite passionate about not only their cars but about giving something back to the community as well. For instance, the Arrowsmith Community and Recreation Association run the concession and that’s a charitable organization as well. Everybody benefits.”

More information on the event can be found here at oceanidlers.org.

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jordan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow