HARDTOP HEROES!

IT MIGHT BE JUST A CAR TO SOME, BUT FOR ANY CAR NUT, A NATIONAL GATHERING OF FALCON HARDTOPS CAN HELP MAKE FRIENDSHIPS, MEMORIES AND CELEBRATE A BIT OF AUSSIE NOSTALGIA

- JON CHANDLER

Tasmania recently hosted a monumental celebration of Ford Falcon Heritage.

From the steady growl of engines to the glittering reflections of meticulously polished paintwork, the 2025 Hardtop Anniversary was a gathering unlike any other. Enthusiasts descended upon Tasmania from March 21 to 24 to honour the legendary XA, XB, XC and Landau hardtops, embracing the charm of 1970s car culture and celebrating significant milestones - 50 years of Falcon hardtops and a century of Ford Australia.

Revving Up

Abiennial tradition, the Hardtop Anniversary is a cornerstone event for hardtop Falcon motoring devotees, drawing participants from across Australia. While previous celebrations attracted impressive crowds, this year's numbers shattered all records. What began as hopes for 80 to 100 vehicles quickly surged past 180 confirmed entries - a testament to the enduring allure of these classic muscle cars.

Participants came from every Australian state, some journeying epic distances from Darwin and Western Australia. One enthusiast even made the voyage from Texas, underscoring the international appeal of Ford's iconic models. Leading up to the event, preparations were feverish. Entrants fine-tuned engines, scouring eBay for rare parts, and gave their cars a final polish - turning each vehicle into a masterpiece.

Eventful Voyage

For mainland entrants, the journey to the Apple Isle was an adventure in itself. The