President of the Drag-ens Hot Rod club Andrew McClelland is hopeful that the successful RattleTrap event will return to Crowdy Head Beach in 2018.

The event, held in early May, was met with resounding support from the local community and a strong field of competitors.

Mr McClelland said the event exceeded the expectations of the event’s organising committee. 

“Eighteen months ago when we first discussed the concept of running old cars and bikes on the beach, we believed that the event may have brought 30 or 40 vehicles and maybe a few hundred spectators. 

“The support was overwhelming and with 62 vehicles and an estimated 2000 spectators the event was a huge success,” Mr McClelland said.

The hot rod club estimated that up to $200,000 was brought into the community, with some visitors opting to stay for a week to explore the area. 

The club thanked the Taree Rescue Squad for their assistance on the day by making a $500 donation.