Logan car enthusiast Kadin Berry rebuilt his prized 1946 Chevy Pick Up from scratch after it burned down on the Bruce Highway last year.
He was on the way to Rockhampton to compete in the Rockynats car festival when his car suddenly caught fire and was destroyed.
But nine months later Mr Berry has completely rebuilt the car and is getting ready to try again – competing at this year’s Rockynats.
“Last year was supposed to be the first time I participated, but I was absolutely devastated when things took a turn for the worse on the way to the event – everything was ruined in the fire,” Mr Berry said.
“I wasn’t going to let this get me down, though.
“It only took nine months for me to rebuild the car with the support of the wonderful Rockhampton community and a few local businesses, and I’m excited to say it’s even better than last year.
“I’m looking forward to getting amongst the fun.”
Mr Berry’s dad made a public post on Facebook describing what happened to the car and garnered unexpected community support.
“We were absolutely blown away with responses from the community showing their support after my dad made a post about the incident on Facebook,” Mr Berry said.
“Everyone wanted to donate money to help me get back on my feet.
“We left donations bucket next to the burnt car at the 2023 event and managed to raise $5000, which is more than I could have ever asked for.”
He said attending Rockynats was a tradition for his family, but 2024 would be his first competition year.
“Here I am, super pumped to enter my own car into the show – it’s a dream come true,” Mr Berry said.
“I’ve always had an interest in cars.
“Ever since I was a baby, I used to sit in the garage with my dad, so I have a pretty good understanding of how cars work.”
He said the parade was “more than just the cars”.
“I have so much to be thankful for – I absolutely love the atmosphere, the people and how the community always comes together,” he said.
“Plus, I get to spend some time with my family.
“It’s a tradition for us, and I’m especially grateful this year.”
