More than 200 motorcycles spanning around 100 years of motorcycling history have rolled into Hobart for the Shannons Motorcycle Spectacular, with every dollar raised going to Variety Tasmania.
The two-day event takes over Princes Wharf 1 on the Hobart waterfront this weekend.
It is the largest indoor motorcycle display ever held in Tasmania.
Shannons Insurance Tasmania business development manager Rodney Belbin said the show features 178 motorcycles representing 11 clubs from across the state, along with motorcycle dealerships.
The bikes range from 1905 models through to brand new machines, with some so rare there are only two or three of that make and model in the world.
“It is once-in-a-lifetime chance,” Belbin said.
Among the highlights is a 1953 Vincent Black Lightning, which held the Australian land speed record in 1953.
It was bought at auction in Las Vegas by a Tasmanian and holds the world record for a motorbike sold at auction at $1.3 million.
Belbin said all the bikes are roadworthy apart from the track and speedway machines, including the 1905 model, which is still ridden on the road.
“The clubs, collectors, dealerships and accessory businesses have really got behind the event and that’s what has allowed us to bring together such an extraordinary collection,” he said.
Variety Tasmania chief executive Mohammad Aldergham said the charity is grateful to be involved in what he called a “passion project” for Belbin.
Variety supports Tasmanian children who are sick, living with disability or experiencing disadvantage.
In the past year it handed out just over $550,000 in grants, supporting more than 26,000 children from Flinders Island down to Dover and from Zeehan across to Scottsdale.
Aldergham said demand has jumped around 25% in the past 12 months, driven by the cost of living and fuel prices.
“All funds raised through the Motorcycle Spectacular will stay right here in Tasmania, helping local children who are living with disability, illness or experiencing disadvantage,” he said.
The event runs from 9am to 6pm on Saturday September 19 and 9am to 4pm on Sunday September 20 at Princes Wharf 1, Castray Esplanade.
Entry is $5 for adults and free for children under 16, with free motorcycle parking on the forecourt.
