The long winding history of an Australian motorsport icon was out for all to see earlier this month as thousands flocked to attend the HD HR Holden Nationals 2026.

A marquee event held by the HD/HR Holden Club Of New South Wales at the world-renowned Mount Panorama Circuit, the event was well attended with over 250 Holdens entered into this year’s event from 5-8 June.

The event marked the 25th running of the Nationals while also celebrating the 60th anniversary of the HR Holden, making it a particularly significant occasion for owners, restorers and fans.

HD/HR Holden Club of NSW President Peter Micallef stated this year’s event gathered significant interest as a result of the milestone occasion.

“The 2026 HD HR Holden Nationals was an outstanding success and exceeded all expectations,” Micallef said.

“With more than 260 vehicles on display, the event showcased some of the finest HD and HR Holdens from across Australia and New Zealand.

“What made this year’s event particularly memorable was the number of first-time entrants who attended and were genuinely amazed by both the scale of the event and the welcoming nature of the HD HR Holden community.

“Seeing newcomers immediately feel at home was one of the highlights of the weekend.”

Festivities began on Friday with registration and a welcome Meet & Greet, giving participants the opportunity to reconnect with fellow enthusiasts from around the country.

The friendly atmosphere embodied the strong sense of community which has become a hallmark of the HD/HR Holden Nationals each year, and Holden owners more broadly.

Saturday featured a popular Show & Shine at the Mount Panorama circuit. where hundreds of beautifully restored HD and HR Holdens were on display. The day concluded with the official presentation dinner and awards ceremony, recognising outstanding vehicles and participant achievements.

On Sunday, entrants experienced a major highlight of the weekend with ceremonial laps of the Mount Panorama circuit before joining organised cruises throughout the Bathurst region.

These relaxed drives gave participants another opportunity to enjoy their vehicles together while sharing stories and experiences with the community.

Micallef took a moment to extend his gratitude to entrants and visitors who attended the event after travelling long distances.

“The commitment shown by entrants continues to amaze us,” Micallef added.

“This year we welcomed participants from all over Australia, including four entrants from New Zealand, four from Western Australia and twelve from Tasmania.

“Given the distances involved and the logistics required to attend, that level of support is something we never take for granted.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the volunteers, sponsors and club members whose efforts made the event possible. Events like this don’t happen without a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes, and the success of the Nationals reflects the strength and enthusiasm of the HD and HR Holden community.”

The weekend also paid tribute to Australian motorsport legend Peter Brock, commemorating 20 years since his passing and acknowledging his enduring connection to Holden’s racing heritage.

The 2027 HD HR Holden Nationals will be held in Canberra from 11-14 June.