2021 Melbourne 4x4 and Outdoors Show preview

While the 2021 National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing & Boating Expo in Melbourne remains subject to developments with COVID-19, the 20-22 August event is considered likely to go ahead.

Last year’s show was cancelled due to the pandemic, but positive conditions in Victoria over autumn and winter saw tickets for the Show released in July. Dates have been set at Friday 20 August (8:30AM – 6:00PM), Saturday 21 August (8:30AM – 6:00PM) and Sunday 22 August (8:30AM – 5:00PM).

Event location is the Melbourne Showgrounds, which has multiple outdoor and indoor exhibition spaces, ensuring flexibility to deal with various COVID requirements on social distancing.

While these conditions may require tweaking of the event programme, some signature features are likely to remain, including the 4x4 Proving Ground, Action Arena and Outback Stage.

New for 2021 will be the Show N Shine, where owners of four-wheel drive rigs of all types can win some great prizes. Sponsored by Custom Plates Victoria, entry to the Show N Shine is free and there will be multiple categories 4x4 owners can enter – Rough and Tumble, Terrific Tourer and Tough Tradie – with cash, prizes and trophies up for grabs, including a Custom Plates gift voucher to further personalise your rig.

Like most other elements for this year’s Melbourne event, the lineup of special guests for the Outback Arena will remain subject to COVID conditions, but Jase Andrews of All 4 Adventure, Shauno and Graham from 4WD 24/7, Sam Eyles from Built not Bought and newcomer Matt Baker from The Explore Life were on the shortlist at time of writing.

Similarly, the makeup of attractions for the Action Arena remains TBC, but freestyle motocross and quad bike action from All4FMX are on the list.

While the running of any event like this remains a moving target, organisers of the 2021 National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing & Boating Expo, Exhibitions & Trade Fairs, state that the health and safety of all those attending will be the highest priority, so government and medical advice will be followed, even if it means a reduction in visitor/exhibitor numbers or outright cancellation.

For event updates, go to: 4x4show.com.au or follow the event’s social media channels.