2026 Australia Day​Award
"Nathalia Champion"

On Australia Day 2026, the Ford Zephyr & Zodiac Club of Victoria was proudly named a Nathalia Champion, recognising the club’s contribution to the town through the organisation and ongoing running of Cars & Coffee Nathalia.

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What began as a simple idea in 2023 has grown into a regular community event that brings classic cars, locals, visitors, and businesses together on cold winter mornings. Cars & Coffee Nathalia was created to give people a reason to get out, connect, and enjoy their town and in doing so, it has helped bring people, cars, and economic activity into Nathalia during months that are traditionally quieter.

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Each event sees classic vehicles lining the street, visitors travelling from surrounding towns, and locals catching up over coffee and breakfast. The flow on effect for Nathalia has been significant, with increased foot traffic for local businesses and a renewed sense of community spirit on the second Sunday of the month.

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Cars & Coffee Nathalia has always been about more than just cars. It is about creating a welcoming, family-friendly environment where everyone feels included whether they arrive in a classic car, a modern daily driver, or simply on foot.

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The club would like to thank the Nathalia community, local businesses, and the Nathalia Lions Club, whose support and famous egg and bacon rolls have become a much-loved part of the morning.

Most importantly, we thank our club members who volunteer their time, bring their vehicles, and help make each event a success.

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Being named a Nathalia Champion is a huge honour for our club. We are incredibly proud to play a small part in helping showcase what makes Nathalia such a great country town and look forward to continuing Cars & Coffee Nathalia for many years to come.