Community Display | Northam WA

Sunday: 4 January

Bubsie Shines in Northam

Setting Off in the Cool Morning Air
We set off from Maida Vale while the morning was still soft and sleepy, just before the sun began to wake and warm the day. We had a feeling about what was coming—a beautiful hot day was on its way! The early air felt cool and refreshing around us, like a sweet little gift before the heat arrived. And wouldn’t you know it, by the time we arrived in Northam, the day had blossomed into exactly the kind of warmth we’d been expecting.

Bernard Park: Where History Meets Community
After parking our vans at the church, we made our way to Bernard Park with Bubsie in tow. Finding a generous shade tree, we tucked our beloved vintage car beneath its leafy canopy.
What a sight it was! Bubsie sat proudly alongside six other vintage and classic beauties, each one telling its own story of a bygone era. Soon, people began to drift through the display, their faces lighting up as they walked among these mechanical time capsules.

Unexpected Conversations and Treasured Moments
The honor of the day came when Mayor Chris Antonio and Deputy Mayor Cr Attila Mencshelyi stopped by to admire the collection. They spent time chatting with our team, genuinely interested in the stories behind these classic vehicles.
The magic went on in spontaneous conversations with everyday visitors. People young and old gravitated toward Bubsie, their eyes sparkling with nostalgia or wonder. Some shared memories of their grandfather’s similar car, others marveled at the craftsmanship that modern manufacturing has left behind. These heartfelt exchanges are exactly why we do this—preserving not just cars, but the connections they create.

A Rare Encounter: Australia’s Only Wild White Swans
Our parking spot held an unexpected treasure. Right beside us was an enclosure protecting something truly special—a bevy of eight wild white swans, the only ones breeding in the wild in all of Australia! These majestic birds, imported from England generations ago, have made Bernard Park their home. Watching them glide gracefully across the water added an almost fairy-tale quality to our day.

Beating the Heat and Breaking Bread Together
As the afternoon sun reached its peak and the crowds thinned around 2 pm, we made the practical decision to pack up a little early.
Back at the church, the air-conditioned hall welcomed us like an oasis. We spent the cooler afternoon hours productively, catching up on work before turning our attention to something just as important—preparing a shared meal together.
There’s something deeply satisfying about gathering around a table after a long day. As we shared food and stories with Pastor Malcolm Eastwick, who would be joining us on our journey to Narrogin in the morning, the day felt complete. It’s these beautiful moments of connection, shared laughter, and togetherness that are so valuable. They become memories close to our hearts.

Until Tomorrow
As we settled in for the night, Bubsie resting after her day in the spotlight, we couldn’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for the shade trees that sheltered us, for the curious visitors who stopped to chat, for the swans that reminded us of the beauty God created, and for the companions who make every adventure worthwhile.

Tomorrow, Narrogin awaits. But tonight, we rest content.