LAST UPDATED: FEBRUARY 2024
We see it in the news all too often; “hoons rampage”, “residents fed up with street racing hoons”, & “shocking hoon video emerges”. Burnouts, street racing & excessive noise are portrayed as the epitome of car culture on the local news, writing a negative narrative for the automotive community. And don’t even get me started on the street racing stereotypes fueled by a certain blockbuster movie franchise …
Don’t get me wrong, there are people out there doing the wrong thing, but their prevalence in the newsroom and pop culture gives all car enthusiasts a bad rap. The reality is that those who partake in hooning represent only a minority within the broader automotive community.
The term ‘hoon’ has been unfairly applied to anyone with an interest in cars, thanks in part to one-sided media coverage that prioritises shock value over feel-good, positive stories. But the true enthusiasts know that the love and respect they have for their vehicles extends far beyond adrenaline-fueled antics.
For most car enthusiasts, the countless hours of labour and significant financial investment put into their pride and joy does not translate into the hooning behaviour we see on our screens. They meticulously care for their vehicles, ensuring they’re in pristine condition, and would never jeopardise the integrity of their cars for the sake of reckless behaviour.
An Event to Challenge Stereotypes
This negative depiction of car enthusiasts is why Tom & Tom set up Cars & Culture events. Founded in 2020, MCA’s vision for Cars & Culture was to host events that were safe, regulated and showcased the positive side of the automotive community.
At Cars & Culture, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a non-negotiable. In contrast to other unregulated car meets, we firmly discourage behaviour that could compromise safety or tarnish the reputation of our community. We’re putting the brakes on reckless driving, discouraging excessive revving, and ensuring that skidding stays firmly off the agenda. How do we make this happen? Thanks to our dedicated team of event staff, whose watchful eyes and proactive approach keep things running smoothly from start to finish.
And this commitment goes beyond just maintaining safety – it’s about rewriting the misconception that motoring enthusiasts are hoons. Providing a space for enthusiasts to enjoy their vehicles in a safe, regulated manner shows the rest of Australia the positive side to the automotive space that isn’t given screentime in the newsroom. We surprise our guests with a family-friendly environment that they can’t find at other car meets, and it’s this atmosphere that keeps them coming back.
It’s time to challenge the narrative and recognise the actions of a few do not represent the values of the entire automotive community. Instead of focusing on hoons in the headlines, let’s celebrate the true spirit of car culture – one rooted in passion, dedication, self-expression and an appreciation for the art of a motor vehicle.
The Diverse World of Car Enthusiasts
When it comes to car enthusiasts, there’s a stereotype that we all dream of owning a flashy supercar – the kind that graces the covers of magazines and dazzles on the silver screen. But the truth is, this stereotype couldn’t be further from reality.
Social media and Hollywood films have played a significant role in perpetuating this idea, portraying supercars like Lamborghinis and Ferraris as the ultimate goal for every car enthusiast. But for many, passion for cars goes far beyond the allure of luxury brands.
There’s a growing sentiment among enthusiasts that the automotive community can feel exclusive and unwelcoming. Some feel pressured to attend events exclusively tailored to their car brand or type, and some fear their attendance is unwanted if they don’t have the latest, most expensive, or most modified vehicle.
But here’s the thing – car culture is about more than just one type of car or supercars. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Australian automotive space, where ownership roots run deep. Here, you don’t become a fan of a car brand through marketing messages or money; you’re born into it.
Cars & Culture was established to challenge the notion that only one type of car is ‘cool’. We celebrate the diversity of the automotive industry by welcoming all enthusiasts and believe that a love for motor vehicles knows no bounds. We don’t discriminate based on car brand or model, and our community and events are open to anyone who shares a passion for anything automotive. Whether you drive a classic muscle car, sports coupe, JDM or anything in between, you’re welcome at Cars & Culture!
We believe in the power of self-expression and individuality, recognising that each car tells a unique story and reflects its owner’s personality. Our community is where enthusiasts can share their passion for cars, connect with like-minded individuals, and forge lasting friendships.
So if you’re passionate about the automotive scene, looking for a car meet that welcomes all and want to help rewrite the idea that we’re all hoons, there’s a place for you at Cars & Culture. Head to our events page or Facebook to check out our upcoming events!
So good. Loving what you and the team at Motor Culture have brought to this arena – a space for normal car lovers to meet and appreciate cars of all shapes and sizes. Keep up the good work!
Love MCA and the message you’re getting out there. I am looking forward to seeing where you take this in the future. Keep up the great work!