The Cowell Ute Club was established in early 2008 and they have travelled and mustered at Melrose, Peterborough, Kimba, Cleve, Darke Peak, Crystal Brook, Yallanda Flat, Kadina, Whyalla and Port Augusta since then.

The idea to hold their own ute muster began in April 2009 and the idea has grown. The plan to support AngelFlight grew when the committee realised that, while the service is supported locally by volunteers, it receives no government assistance.

Former Whyalla musician Graeme Hugo came on board with the committee to build the event into a headlining regional feature.

SA only boasts three ute clubs but the event has already garnered support from across the nation. To date more than 80 utes are already being polished and prepped for the event – with many more expected.

The Cowell Ute Club itself boasts 55 members from thoughout SA, NT, NSW and Victoria.

“We invite anyone with a ute – we have 10 different categories from ‘tradies’ to ‘chick’s utes’ – to come be part of the event,” Gavin Jackson. “But whether you like the music, the community, or just want to support AngelFlight this is going to be a great event to come along to.”

Country music star Adam Harvey will join local identities Danny Hiern and Chris Ramsey in judging the utes on the day.

The club’s original plan to host the event on the town oval was superseded when interest started flowing in, far beyond their original expectations. It was at this point that Ken Lamb came on board to donate his land – the old rodeo grounds, formerly the Buff Cricket Oval – to support the event.

“There’s a lot of history at that site and it’s great to see a new event being held there in 2010,” Gavin said. “Nothing like this has ever been done in our region before – this is a first!”

Committee members are already hard at work preparing the site and more than 60 regional businesses have thrown their support behind the fundraiser, both financially and practically.

In the interest of safety, shuttle buses will run from the Cowell town centre, Lucky Bay hall and Harbourview Caravan Park.

The ute muster starts at 9am and finishes at 3pm, in time for everyone to settle in for an afternoon of great music right through till the early hours. Trophies will be awarded to first, second and third in all 10 categories.

Camping on the rodeo grounds is free – so don’t drive, bring your swag or your van and stay the night. And then in the morning, enjoy a barbecue breakfast before you head home.

Tickets are now available from Cowell Ute Club members.