Thousands expected to arrive in Coolangatta for annual nostalgia festival Cooly Rocks On 2019

More than 700 cars and bikes worth upwards of $20 million are set to be on display as the city plays host to the annual Cooly Rocks On, drawing in thousands of classic car enthusiasts.

THOUSANDS are expected to attend the newly “refreshed” and “progressive” Cooly Rocks On as it kicks off this morning.

This year marks the first year organised under new Connecting Southern Gold Coast CEO Josh Martin, who stepped into the role in early February.

Co-owner of Swing On In Dance School and host of the festival’s Swing Ball Chrissy Keepence said she had seen a “new life” in the five-day event.

FESTIVAL PREPARES TO CROWN MISS COOLY ROCKS ON 2019

Many are flying in for the festival. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

“Everyone’s got a really good vibe about it, about the music line up, the new people running it and the amount of cars that have come back,” she said.

“I love the fact that the new (organisers) have really done their homework, they’ve brought on consultants that have been in the festival for more than 20 years, they’re listening.”

The festival last year attracted more than 110,000 people, generating over $6 million for the region. Organisers hope 2019’s festival will be even bigger.

More than 700 cars and bikes worth upwards of $20 million are set to be displayed, including for the first time iconic brand Indian Motorcycles.

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The inaugural Swing Ball is a highlight of this year’s program. Photograph: Jason O'Brien

Local Councillor Gail O’Neill said she had “full confidence” in the new organising team.

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“We want to pack as much into those five days as possible and we want people to stay longer and holiday here as well,” she said.

“This festival has always made a huge economic impact on Coolangatta and its surrounding areas. It’s in the millions.

“When you take into consideration accommodation, food and people staying on longer, for a five day festival people are staying an average of 4.9 nights.”