The event raises money for the showground, as well as families in drought-affected areas, and will this year help up-and-coming country musician Tori Darke fund her trip to Nashville.

Last year’s event raised $5000 and the organising committee (which consists of Cessnock locals Vanessa and Patrick Sherwood, Sara Bedford, Tracey Moore and Darren Oswald) hope the addition of a country motor show will attract more local interest.

Saturday’s activities will include the motor show, mud drags, barrel racing and a demolition derby, plus live entertainment and fun for the whole family, including stalls, activities and a special visit by Santa Claus.

There are categories for utes, hotrods, classic, trucks, drags, bikes and more.

The finals for the mud drags and barrel racing will be held on the Sunday as will another demolition derby. Camp sites are available for those wishing to stay the night.

Tori Darke will perform at the event, fresh from supporting Kenny Chesney in Canada, and on Saturday night Col Finley will entertain the crowd following the demolition derby.

Entry is $10 for adults and a gold coin for children and gates open at 9am.

The organising committee is still seeking sponsorship for trophies for motorbikes, trucks and utes. Anyone who can help is asked to phone Pat on 0428 332 283 or Ness on 0431 242 233.