IT WAS a case of "smoke and mirrors" at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds in Bendigo last month with the staging of the inaugural Rod Stock & Custom Show.

The event was organised by Rod Stock & Custom Bendigo, a group of local vehicle enthusiasts.

In all, 108 vehicles were entered and about 2000 people came through the gates over the three days.

The event welcomed all pre-1975 vehicles, including hot rods, rat rods, customs and classics.

Spectators and entrants travelled from as far away as Melbourne and Albury.

The action opened with a bench session on the Friday night, followed by Saturday's car display, called the Meguiar's Show and Shine.

Drivers lined up to test their skills in events such as Go to Whoa, Spear a Spud and Rod Stock Pinstripe.

Visitors to the trades building had a rare opportunity to look at a variety of hot rods in various stages of completion.

This building also housed automotive trade sites and provided a venue for the event's sponsors.

With more than 80 trophies to decide in the show and shine and driving events, the judges were kept busy.

Top hot rod for the show was a 1932 Ford Tudor belonging to Ross Mayes, of Kangaroo Flat, while top post-1948 car went to Jesse Bourke, of Huntly, for his 1969 Monaro.

Top overall competitor, including the driving events, was Ron Latham, of Kyabram, in his 1975 Holden sedan.

Organisers said plans were already in place for some new attractions and displays for next year.