Willys owners and enthusiasts from across Australia will make their way to Sunraysia for four days of cruising, local attractions, social gatherings and plenty of opportunities to admire some beautifully presented vehicles.
Dates: 11th to 14th of September
Location: Mildura and surrounding Sunraysia region
Event base: NRMA Mildura Riverside Holiday Park
The Nationals bring together Willys vehicles in original, restored and modified form, creating an interesting mix of rugged military-style Jeeps, classic wagons, coupes, hot rods and custom-built machines.
For locals, the event will be a rare chance to see so many Willys vehicles gathered together in one place, while visiting owners and their families will also have the opportunity to explore Mildura and the wider Sunraysia region during their stay.
A Name With Plenty of History
The Willys name stretches back to the early years of American motoring and businessman John North Willys, but it was during the Second World War that the company produced the vehicle for which it remains best known.
The small but incredibly tough Willys MB became one of the most recognisable military vehicles of the war. It carried soldiers, equipment and supplies across difficult terrain and helped establish the basic design and reputation that would eventually become associated with the Jeep brand.
Following the war, Willys adapted the military vehicle for civilian use. The CJ models became popular on farms, worksites and in rural communities, while the company also produced station wagons, pickups and other practical vehicles.
Willys coupes later developed a strong following among hot rodders and drag racers, giving the name another chapter in motoring history. That is why a Willys gathering can feature everything from carefully restored military vehicles to loud, low and highly modified street machines.
The Australian Willys Nationals
The Australian Willys Nationals began in 2012 as part of the Big River Nationals at Barmera, bringing together owners who shared a passion for the historic marque.
Mildura has since become a popular location for the Nationals, offering good roads for cruising, plenty of accommodation and no shortage of attractions for participants to visit.
The NRMA Mildura Riverside Holiday Park will serve as the event base, while Mildura Rural City Council has also supported previous Australian Willys Nationals through its events funding program.
Credit must also go to the event organisers, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who help make the Nationals possible. Events like this take plenty of preparation behind the scenes, particularly when vehicles and owners are travelling from across Australia to attend.
Further sponsor acknowledgements, event announcements and information about public activities will be shared through the Australian Willys Nationals Facebook group.
Follow the Australian Willys Nationals
Visit the official Facebook group for event updates, sponsor acknowledgements and further information.
Visit the Facebook GroupIt is another national motoring event choosing Mildura as its meeting place and another good reason to keep an eye on the roads around town during September.
From military Jeeps to polished hot rods, the little Willys will soon be rolling into town.