The Downshift x JDMST & GYMKHANA MEET

Downshift have done it again to bring Brisbane its largest JDM and Euro meet, attracting 500+ cars out to Queensland Raceway for an afternoon of mingling and ogling the multitude of Japanese and Euro cars on display. So as to not to be caught out with lack of space and light like last time, the event was held earlier, in the large QR car park and on the weekend, making it easier for a larger amount of people to attend.

The FORGED Audi was an absolute show stopper. I had to get a bit pushy and clear the area so that I could get a shot without some mug walking up to it and getting his head in the way.

As can be expected on the road to any of these meets, you’re bound to see some cool rides en-route. This tidy Datsun 1200 was with us the whole trip.

Jarod Dreise put in an appearance in his JDM to the core MX-5. There’s just something about this car that lets you know it’s more than just the daily drive.

Once we arrived at Queensland Raceway, to avoid lengthy queues, Downshift had cleverly used a two lane entry which helped streamline getting in.

After paying the light $2 per person entry fee, the drivers found a spot to pull up and stretch their legs after what had been quite a long drive for some.

The short track was opened up for a gymkhana session, but unfortunately the expressions of interest prior to the event, led to money not being put in mouth, and only a few cars willing to brave the crowd and showcase their skills.

The car park at QR allowed for plenty of eye-candy to be put out on display.

It just wouldn’t be JDM if it didn’t have a little bit of poke or at least one zip-tie.

It was good to see a number of individual clubs come up together and put on displays in their own little areas.

While some others just chose to stand out all alone in the crowd, this classic BMW 320 was a perfect example of making a statement without over doing it.

This old Mercedes 280 was out to show that even the old girls can still cut it with the best of the new. Dropped on bags and sporting a set of cross-hairs in place of the Merc badge, it was definitely still in the hunt.

A picture says a thousand words.

A giant among men, Mitchell’s 2jz powered Hilux is a force to be reckoned with.

It didn’t matter which way I went, there was always something to catch my eye. Kieran Cocker and Co. in a couple of smooth looking WRXs.

As the sun began to set people started to make their way back to their cars and begin the long drive home.

The steady trickle of vehicles leaving kept most of the heavy footed louts at bay and people managed to get out of the lot with minimal tyre spinning, allowing for a dignified end to a successful day out.

So I don’t know about you, but I’ll definitely be out to the next Downshift JDM/Euro meet.

- Chez