Long before EVs and SUVs took over our driveways, the rumble of a classic Holden engine acted as Australia’s soundtrack for road trips and school drop-offs alike.

These cars were family movers, cult classics and weekend workhorses all in one. They hauled caravans up the coast, carried tradies to site and taught generations of teenagers how to drive. In many households, Holdens were part of the family.

Though times have changed, the fondness attached to Australia’s favourite car remains timeless.

On Saturday, 12 September, families are invited to gather for a free Show and Shine day from 10 am at the National Archives of Australia to celebrate all things Holden.

An array of classic 1950s and 60s models will be on display thanks to the Canberra Classic Holden Club. If you’re keen for more, head to the rear laneway to explore Holdens from the early days right through to the Commodore generation.

There’ll be hands-on activities for all ages, including Holden-themed crafts, balloon twisting and more. Aussie folk musicians Paverty Bush Band will be performing throughout the day.

Canberra’s younger Holden fans will be thrilled by road trip storytime at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm, featuring tales of freedom, fun and adventure on the road.

Hungry? Grab a feed from the community BBQ, Jacko’s Pizza or Mellabella Gelato.

From 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, head indoors for curator talks on the Rear Vision exhibition, which traces Holden’s journey to becoming one of Australia’s most iconic brands.

What better way to celebrate this incredible legacy than to learn about Holden’s lasting impact on our economy, industry and national identity, and the lives it changed along the way?

The Rear Vision exhibition showcases Holden’s story in full, from its saddlery beginnings and Second World War production to its rise as Australia’s own car and the brand’s devastating closure nearly a decade ago.

National Archives Director-General Simon Froude says it aims to foster connection with stories that continue to define Australian history.

“Visitors to the National Archives can explore the often-surprising reasons why historical documents continue to spark public imagination,” he says.

“Originally developed by the State Library of South Australia in partnership with Adelaide University, Rear Vision is complemented with archival records from the national collection including patents, advertising, industrial relations files and stories of women’s fight for equal pay.”

Browse original materials, historic records and rare objects including the first and last engines produced, custom paint samples, and the original bronze lion statue from Holden’s Elizabeth Plant entrance gate.

Keen to delve even deeper? Join one of the daily gallery talks for an insider’s perspective.

Holden represents far more than just a company for David Ridge, pictured here with his grandfather’s FE. Photo: John Lomnicki.

On Saturday for Show and Shine day, visitors can expect plenty of chrome shining from Holdens that span the decades. President of the Canberra Classic Holden Club David Ridge says few brands are more familiar to everyday Australians, even in 2026.

“One in every two cars sold across Australia between the 1950s and 60s was a Holden,” he says.

“They were very successful in creating vehicles that appealed to our culture and suited our harsh conditions. If you didn’t have a Holden yourself, someone in your family did.

“We still see plenty on the road today, and come across lots of people who had one as their first car and remember it so fondly. It’s a legacy, really, and one that deserves to be celebrated.”

Rear Vision Show and Shine Day kicks off at 10 am on Saturday, 12 September, at National Archives of Australia. Entry is free – no bookings required.

Rear vision: the Holden collection is open daily until 31 January 2027.

For more information on the Rear Vision exhibition, visit National Archives of Australia.