Ouyen Lake is getting ready for another big weekend, with the Mallee Drifters Show & Shine rolling into town this Friday.
Just days after the Mallee Root Festival brought plenty of activity to the lake, the cars, utes, vans and motorbikes will be moving in for the Mallee Drifters Show & Shine 2026 on Friday, September 25.
It means Ouyen Lake will host two substantial community events within the space of a week — another good example of just how important the lake precinct has become to the town.
The Show & Shine gets underway with registrations from 10am, followed by judging from 12 noon, with the winners announced at 2.30pm.
Entry is $15 per vehicle, which includes a complimentary BBQ ticket, while spectators can come along for free.
Food and soft drinks will also be available during the day.
And it isn't just about immaculate classic cars.
Organisers are inviting people to bring along their car, ute, wagon, van or motorbike, giving visitors a good mix of vehicles to wander around and check out.
Another big event for Ouyen Lake
While the cars will be the attraction on Friday, there is probably an even bigger story developing around Ouyen Lake itself.
The precinct is continuing to establish itself as one of the Mallee's most useful community gathering places.
What began as an ambitious community project to transform a disused water storage has developed into a major recreational asset for Ouyen, used for everything from swimming, fishing and walking to boating, camping and community events.
The lake project was driven heavily by local volunteers, businesses and community supporters, with an enormous amount of donated labour, equipment and materials helping turn the idea into reality.
Events like the Mallee Root Festival and the Mallee Drifters Show & Shine are now showing another side to what the precinct can offer.
One weekend it can be live music, food stalls and families gathering around the lake.
A few days later, the same area can be filled with cars, bikes and motoring enthusiasts.
For a town the size of Ouyen, that's a pretty handy community asset to have — and another big event this weekend should once again put plenty of people around the lake.
Mallee Drifters Show & Shine 2026
When: Friday, September 25
Where: Ouyen Lake
Registrations: From 10am
Judging: From 12 noon
Winners announced: 2.30pm
Vehicle entry: $15, including complimentary BBQ ticket
Spectators: Free
Information: 0428 781 291
