Landing the event to be held at Easter and based at Albury racecourse even shocked Albury Street Rodders president Tony Thorn, who has attended the biennial event previously Sydney, Geelong, Bendigo and Newcastle.

“They are a big boost to the economies of wherever they are held,” he said.

“I honestly didn’t think (Albury) had any chance because I knew some of the Sydney councils were bidding as well.

“I was very surprised when I heard, but it is a nice surprise.

“Our location has won the day.”

The event to be held from April 1-5 will include vehicle and trade displays at the racecourse which will be open to the community.

Mr Thorn also hoped a street cruise could be arranged.

“It’s not a hoon event,” he said.

“It’s a family event and it is really pushed as that type of event with kids, wives all welcome.”

More than 1200 hot rods from Australia and overseas and at least 5000 people will converge on Albury for the event.

It’s anticipated the event will provide a $3 million-plus stimulus to the economy.

“It is a huge deal for the economy of Albury and Wodonga,” Albury councillor Murray King said.

“It will be $3 million-plus of good times because all the hotels will be full, all the restaurants will be full and all the motels will be full.

“We’ve made the decision to be the event capital of regional Australia and this is a bit of a diversification from conference and other things.”

Albury is also hosting the NSW Local Government conference in October.

Federation NSW director David Clift, said the event would be a huge drawcard.

“Fans of spectacular vehicles will be in for a treat over a weekend that offers a chance to relive the era of American Graffiti, Happy Days, music, cars, fashion and fun,” he said.

Albury Council has been negotiating with organisers for more than 12 months to secure the event which is being held at Maryborough in Queensland next year.

They were last held in Albury in 1979.