THE FACES BEHIND THE MADNESS

The McIntosh’s have always been a car family. “Rev heads,” as mother Maria puts it.

It’s an identity that began with her husband Mark and the beloved V8 Torana he piloted back in his teenage years. Decades later, that affinity for cars has extended beyond just himself.

‍

He and Maria, a Burdekin Motors employee for over 32 years, have raised two kids who never fell far from the tree.

Their son Jaidyn has built a reputation across the state for his fully rebuilt 1998 Commodore, garnering 1.8 million views on a TikTok post featuring the car. Their daughter Bella, who bought Jaidyn’s modified Ford Falcon, is “the ultimate rev head, just like her brother,” Maria says.

‍

Their common love for cars has taken the family to auto shows all across Queensland, Maria said.

“We used to go to the V8s, drag racing, and car shows all the time,” she said.

“That was just part of our culture with the kids as they grew up.”

‍

But after years of travelling up and down the state, they thought it was about time the Burdekin had its very own premier auto event.

Enter Burdekin Motor Madness.

‍

The show is the family’s brainchild, a collision of their love for cars and everything they’ve gleaned from events they’ve attended in the past.

The family are operating as a not-for-profit to bring the event to fruition, with locals Chris and Tayla Quagliata, Jaidyn’s fiancee Ally, and Bella’s partner Jayden pitching in to form a total committee of just eight.

‍

And after two-and-a-half years of blood, sweat and tears, Maria believes the team has created an event that has never been seen before in the Burdekin.

‍

“We’d been to other car shows like Rockynats. We wanted to bring something like that to the Burdekin, because we know there are a lot of beautiful cars in our area, and a lot of car enthusiasts here as well,” she said.

‍

“There have been similar events here in the past, but nothing on this level with the other attractions. Our intention is not to just make it a car show, but a motor show that will have a bit of everything … and benefit the whole of the Burdekin and surrounding areas.”

Now on the home stretch of preparation, Maria praised the efforts of everyone involved in helping the inaugural event find its feet.

‍

“It still doesn't feel real until the day is actually here,” she said.

“It’s taken lots of phone calls, lots of emails, and many nights up till midnight doing paperwork all while working full time.

‍

“We are so grateful to anyone that has contributed in any way, financially but also through their support as well. And if it wasn't for our sponsors we would have nothing.

“Hopefully we can attract a high volume of public support ... and put on a bigger show next year.”

‍