What’s News

We’re visiting the great Western State!

G’day to all of our Western Australian followers! We’re excited to say that our head auctioneer Ashley Burns will be paying the great state a visit between Monday the 20th of April and Wednesday the 22nd of April and we’re offering valuations!

Are you based in Western Australia and have been thinking about selling your car, motorcycle or collectables? Have you been wondering what price they might fetch if you were to sell your items at auction?

Then give Ashley Burns a call on 0408 618 294 to organise an appraisal of your items while the we’re in Western Australia!

One of the Standout Builds Heading to Our May Auction

Every now and then a vehicle arrives that immediately sets itself apart – not just for its looks, but for the level of craftsmanship, detail and investment behind it.

Straight out of Queensland and now set to feature in our upcoming May Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction is this exceptional 1934 Chevrolet Hot Rod – a true high-end build that represents the very best of what the custom scene has to offer.

Gleaming in gold ✨, the finish alone gives an indication of the quality throughout. From the bodywork and detailing through to the engineering and driveline, this is a car that has clearly been built without compromise.

At its heart sits a 6.2L LS3 V8, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivering modern performance in a classic hot rod package. Fully engineered and built to an incredibly high standard, this is a turn-key example ready for both the show circuit and the open road.

Backed by an extensive build featuring high-end components and detailed craftsmanship throughout, the quality of this example is evident from every angle.

It’s not just the headline specifications that stand out – it’s the sum of the details. The finishing, component selection and overall presentation combine to create a vehicle that demands attention and rewards close inspection.

For collectors, enthusiasts, or anyone looking to secure a premium custom build, opportunities like this don’t come along often.

This one is located at our Beresfield showroom in NSW.

👉 View full listing and details here:
https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/portfolio/1934-chevrolet-hot-rod-ls3-v8-auto-engineered/

Considering selling your vehicle?
Our upcoming May auction is now taking entries.
👉 Submit your vehicle here:
https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle/

70’s Survivor with a Rich History

To the naked eye, a motorcycle can just be a motorcycle, but to many the years of ownership can mean a whole lot more!

Featuring in our upcoming May Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle auction is this fantastic 1970’s Honda Z50 Mini Trail Bike with a very unique history.

The story and provenance of this mini bike begins with the recently deceased long term owner, Milos Jan Pelikan. Milos is the father of the current vendor and was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1926.

The father of Milos, a man by the name of Rudolf Pelikan was a General & Surgeon during the first World War and was 1 of 16 contributors that were involved in forming the nation of Czechoslovakia! The first President of the nation of Czechoslovakia, T.G. Masaryk would eventually recruit Rudolf as Military Medical Commander of the nation’s military school after the first World War!

With a family history deeply rooted in the Czechoslovakia, it would be the year 1950 when Milos moves to Australia as a student refugee studying Agriculture. He was one of the many persecuted by the regime at the time.

Upon arriving in Melbourne, Milos worked on Wharves in Port Melbourne for approximately 10 years before earning a job in 1963 with the Australian Government in Papua New Guinea as a Land Surveyor for Dept Lands, Surveys & Mines in Port Moresby.

He worked his way up to the rank of Principal Land Development Officer for Papua New Guinea and in 1972 the country was granted self-government status, leading to Chief Minister Michael Somare asking Milos to stay onboard and assist the nation on it’s road to independence in 1975, an awesome honour during a time were these positions were being transferred to locals of Papua New Guinea.

Michael Somare would eventually become the nations first Prime Minister and Milos would continue working with his Government until eventually leaving the nation in 1976.

It was his time in Papua New Guinea where Milos would purchase the Honda Z50 Mini Trail Bike in Port Moresby. The bike was registered prior to independence of the nation and was eventually brought over to Australia, where the bike resided on his residence in Tweed River, NSW and then eventually Melbourne.

According to the son of Milos, this is an awesome example that has never seen a mechanic, nor been tinkered with meaning it is a completely original example! It also has never been registered in Australia since the move back to here in 1976.

This is one very special example, as it comes with original purchasing, Papua New Guinea registration and Australian transfer documents, highlighting the unique provenance of the bike.

A unbelievable time capsule, preserved in super original condition and with a tremendous story behind it’s ownership. This is exactly the type of opportunity we love to offer here at Burns & Co so stay tuned for our upcoming May Auction catalogue as this will be a very unique standout amongst the catalogue!

Have a unique vehicle you want to sell?

Burns & Co Auctions deliver national reach, competitive bidding and proven results – all with a fully managed process.

Submit your vehicle today or speak with our team.

👉 burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle

Or feel free to get in contact with a member of our team:

Ashley Burns 0408 618 294
Anton Cooper 0427 383 531
Phil Shaw (NSW / QLD) 0437 637 644

A standout result was achieved in the Burns & Co May Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction, with the 1970 Ford XY GT Falcon 351 V8 Automatic Sedan selling for $291,235 including buyer’s premium.

Offered as Lot 42, the Bronze Wine XY GT was an exceptional and highly regarded example. A 1 of 1 build specification, the car was also a GT Falcon Nationals winner, having taken out an award in the original maintained category. With its matching numbers 351 4V V8, original transmission, rare colour combination and extensive documentation, it was always going to be one of the headline vehicles of the May auction.

For seller Jamie, choosing the right auction house was about more than simply listing the car. It was about trusting the people, the presentation and the platform to do justice to a significant collector vehicle.

After being referred to Burns & Co through the GT car club, Jamie said he was immediately impressed by the way the team approached the sale.

“I was stunned with the professionalism and the honesty, and how everyone went about it.”

Selling a significant collector vehicle can be a nerve-racking experience, particularly when the car is rare, well known and tightly held. Jamie said he was “very, very nervous” leading into the auction, but placed his trust in the Burns & Co team, particularly Anton and Ashley, to guide the process.

“Anton sort of just said, ‘look, this is our game now,’ and he sort of gave me really good confidence.”

That confidence was backed by the way the vehicle was presented to market. Jamie praised the setup, organisation and atmosphere of the auction, describing the overall experience as fantastic. He also noted that the team was willing to listen and work with him throughout the process, while still bringing their professional auction expertise to the campaign.

“They’re happy to listen, even though they’re the professionals in that type of field.”

In choosing where to sell the vehicle, Jamie said presentation was a major factor. Having looked closely at how other auction houses presented similar cars, he felt the Burns & Co approach stood apart, particularly in the quality of photography, level of detail and confidence created for buyers.

“It’s nowhere near what Burns & Co do.”

That level of presentation proved important on auction night.

The successful buyer was based in Western Australia and bid with confidence after reviewing the extensive photography and detail provided by Burns & Co. Jamie said the buyer openly acknowledged that he was relying on the photos and the Burns & Co presentation when making his decision.

“The guy who bought ours from WA openly said, ‘I’m going off your photos’… he had confidence in the photos and what was taken.”

For a vehicle of this calibre, that trust is critical. Buyers are not simply making a small purchase – they are making a significant investment, often from interstate and sometimes without physically inspecting the vehicle in person.

Jamie said he was surprised, but also impressed, that a buyer could confidently bid on a car in this price range based on the presentation and photography.

“It’s not like they’re buying a $20,000 car… a two or three hundred thousand dollar car, and he’s got confidence in the photos.”

The auction itself also played an important role in the final result. Jamie highlighted Ashley’s ability to engage the bidders and accurately communicate what made the car special. He said Ashley recognised the significance of the XY GT, including its 1 of 1 status, and used that to help build momentum in the bidding.

“Ashley recognised how special the car was… it’s one of one, it’s a unicorn.”

With strong online interest and national buyer reach, the bidding moved quickly and the car ultimately sold for $291,235 including buyer’s premium.

When asked about the result, Jamie’s response was clear.

“Extremely. The result was amazing.”

He also said he would have no hesitation recommending Burns & Co to others.

“Definitely. 100%.”

Jamie’s experience highlights the importance of trust, presentation and national reach when selling a significant collector vehicle. From the initial recommendation through the GT car club, to the detailed photography, professional auction presentation and live simulcast bidding, the campaign delivered a strong result for a very special car.

It also reinforces the role of Burns & Co’s national platform in connecting quality vehicles with serious buyers across Australia. Whether buyers are in the room, on the phone or bidding online from interstate, the right presentation can give them the confidence to compete.

For Jamie, the experience was professional, honest and ultimately successful.

The car sold.
The result delivered.
The buyer came from interstate with confidence.
And another significant collector vehicle found its next home through Burns & Co.

Thinking of selling?

Submit your vehicle today and let Burns & Co do the hard work.

👉 burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle

Or feel free to get in contact with a member of our team:

Ashley Burns 0408 618 294
Anton Cooper 0427 383 531
Phil Shaw (NSW / QLD) 0437 637 644

After researching reviews, asking around the automotive industry and trusting the process, Sam says selling his prized Ford Model A Hot Rod through Burns & Co “exceeded expectations.”

Before handing over the keys to his cherished Ford Model A Hot Rod, Sam did exactly what many prospective vendors do.

He researched.

He read Burns & Co’s Facebook reviews, spoke with people in the automotive industry and sought genuine feedback before deciding where to consign his vehicle.

The verdict was overwhelmingly positive.

After experiencing the process himself, Sam says those recommendations were well deserved.

“I researched Burns & Co, read the Facebook reviews and asked around the automotive industry. Everything I heard was true.”

 

A straightforward process from start to finish

From his first conversation with Vehicle Specialist Phil Shaw through to auction night, Sam says what impressed him most wasn’t sales pressure or promises—it was the professionalism of the team.

“Everything was spot on.”

“There was no hard sell. It was all straightforward and honest.”

Sam said the communication throughout the process made selling his vehicle easy, with clear advice and realistic expectations from the outset.

“I’d give Phil 10 stars.”

While reflecting on his experience, Sam was full of praise for the team, particularly Vehicle Specialist Phil Shaw.

“I’d give Phil 10 stars.”

He later contacted Burns & Co again simply to ensure his feedback reached management.

“Phil is a true asset to Burns & Co.”

“He’s so down to earth. It’s hard to find people like that.”

A team focused on doing the right thing

Sam also spoke highly of the auction itself, saying he was impressed with the professionalism shown throughout the campaign and on auction night.

He appreciated that the advice was genuine and that the team focused on achieving the best possible outcome rather than simply trying to secure the consignment.

“The service was excellent.”

“Everything was really well done.”

A result that exceeded expectations

When the hammer fell, Sam couldn’t have been happier with the outcome.

His Ford Model A Hot Rod found a new home, delivering a result that exceeded what he had hoped for.

Reflecting on the experience, Sam summed it up simply.

“I’d rate Burns & Co 150% for service and quality.”

“I’ve already recommended Burns & Co to other people.”

Thinking about selling?

Whether you’re selling a single vehicle, a project car, motorcycle or an entire collection, Burns & Co provides obligation-free appraisals and a national buyer audience competing in-room, online and by phone.

If you’re considering selling, we’d love to discuss how we can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Submit your vehicle today and let Burns & Co do the hard work.

👉 burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle

Or feel free to get in contact with a member of our team:

📞 Ashley Burns – 0408 618 294
📞 Anton Cooper – 0427 383 531
📞 Jason Todd – 0400 321 919
📞 Phil Shaw (NSW / QLD)  – 0437 637 644

Selling a special vehicle at auction can be daunting, particularly when it’s offered unreserved.

For one recent Burns & Co vendor, that uncertainty quickly turned into confidence after trusting the advice of our team.

Their highly sought after 1972 Ford XA GT Falcon Coupe Project Automatic achieved $111,933 (including Buyer’s Premium) in our June Muscle, Classics & Motoring Auction.

Reflecting on the experience, the vendor said the entire process exceeded expectations.

“Honestly, we couldn’t have been happier. Anton made the whole process easy and straightforward from start to finish. It exceeded our expectations.”

Like many vendors, there were understandable questions around selling without a reserve.

“We were naturally a little nervous about selling unreserved, but we trusted the advice and the process, and it absolutely worked.”

From initial appraisal through to transport, marketing and auction day, the vendor praised the professionalism of the Burns & Co team.

“The presentation, advertising and online bidding were excellent. I couldn’t fault the way the auction was run.”

The vehicle received extensive national exposure through Burns & Co’s marketing campaign, attracting competitive bidding from both the auction room and buyers across Australia online.

Perhaps the strongest endorsement came when asked whether they would recommend Burns & Co.

“I’ve already recommended Burns & Co to other people.”

At Burns & Co we understand that every vehicle has a story, and every vendor wants confidence that their pride and joy will be presented to the widest possible buying audience.

Whether you’re selling a blue-chip collector car, a project vehicle, a motorcycle or an entire collection, our experienced team can guide you through the process and help determine the best auction strategy for your vehicle.

Thinking of selling?

If you’ve been considering selling, we’d love to have a conversation.

Submit your vehicle today and let Burns & Co do the hard work.

👉 burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle

Or feel free to get in contact with a member of our team:

📞 Ashley Burns – 0408 618 294
📞 Anton Cooper – 0427 383 531
📞 Jason Todd – 0400 321 919

Another strong seller result was achieved in Night 1 of the Burns & Co May Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction, with the 1975 Ford XB Fairmont 302 V8 7 Seater Automatic Wagon selling for $59,346 including buyer’s premium.

Offered as Lot 14, the XB Fairmont Wagon was a unique and highly presentable example, finished in Tango with white interior and featuring a long list of desirable options. Factory 302 V8, Fairmont specification, T-bar automatic, power steering, air conditioning, GS rally pack, power windows, power tailgate, LSD, overriders and a dealer-fit rear dickie seat all added to the appeal of this standout wagon.

For seller Leonard, Burns & Co was the right fit for the vehicle because of the way the team presents cars to market.

Having dealt with Burns & Co previously, Leonard said he had confidence in the process and the presentation of the vehicle.

Before entering the May auction, the XB Fairmont Wagon had briefly been placed with another auction house. Leonard said the car needed the right platform, the right presentation and the right buyer audience, which is why he ultimately chose Burns & Co.

“It was a showy car, and it needed someone like yourselves because you present them very well.”

That comment goes to the heart of what matters when selling a special vehicle. Presentation is not just about photos on a page – it is about giving the right buyers confidence, showing the car properly and positioning it in front of an engaged national audience.

Despite being away in Queensland at the time of the auction, Leonard was comfortable leaving the process in the hands of the Burns & Co team. He did not attend the auction and did not follow it live, but trusted the team to handle the campaign.

“The overall experience was exactly what I anticipated.”

Leonard said he had a clear expectation of where the result needed to land, and the final sale price met that expectation.

“I was happy with it.”

He also praised the staff involved in the process, describing the team as professional and easy to deal with.

“It was all handled professionally, and as it should be.”

The XB Fairmont Wagon result is another reminder that the right presentation, the right auction platform and the right buyer reach can make a significant difference.

For Leonard, the decision to sell through Burns & Co came down to trust, presentation and confidence that the car would be handled properly. The result delivered exactly what he was looking for.

From rare GTs and high-end collector cars through to standout cruisers, wagons and enthusiast vehicles, Burns & Co continues to deliver strong outcomes for sellers across Australia.

Whether vendors are local, interstate or away travelling, the Burns & Co team can manage the process from consignment through to auction day, giving sellers confidence that their vehicle is being presented to the right market.

The car was presented.
The right buyers were reached.
The result landed where it needed to.
And another seller walked away happy.

Thinking of selling?
Submit your vehicle today and let Burns & Co present it to a national buying audience.

Submit your vehicle:
https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle/

A Process Worth Travelling For

When it came time to sell his vehicle, Alex was looking for a process that was straightforward, well managed and backed by people who understood the market and the vehicle.

After being disappointed by another provider locally, Alex made the decision to travel over 160km to Burns & Co’s Newcastle showroom – a decision that paid off.

“I had actually looked at going through another company locally, but they just didn’t have the knowledge of the vehicle. That’s what led me to Burns & Co.”

A Knowledgeable Team from the Start

From the initial enquiry through to drop-off, Alex valued the team’s understanding of the vehicle and clear communication throughout the process.
“Phil was great from the beginning – very knowledgeable. That gave me confidence to go ahead and bring the car up.”
As the campaign progressed, Alex also worked closely with Ashley, particularly in the final stages.
“Ashley rang me and put a proposition to me. It was an honest offer, and we moved forward from there.”

A Smooth Auction Experience

While Alex followed the auction live, he found the process simple and easy to understand.
“I watched from beginning to end – it was straightforward. The car was well described and everything ran as expected.”

A Result in Line with the Market

Importantly, Alex approached the auction with realistic expectations and was happy with the result achieved.
The vehicle sold for $125,561 (incl. buyer’s premium), in line with both his expectations and current market conditions.
“It wasn’t an amazing, amazing result, but given the market, it was what I expected. I was happy with it.”

A Confident Recommendation

For Alex, the overall experience stood out for its ease, communication and honesty throughout.
“I was very happy with the whole process. If I was to do it again, I’d be giving Burns & Co a call first.”
Having compared his experience to other providers, the difference was clear.
“They just didn’t have the knowledge – that’s what made the difference for me.”

With a smooth process, informed guidance and a result aligned to expectations, Alex would confidently recommend Burns & Co to others.
“100% I’d recommend them.”

Looking to sell without the hassle?

Burns & Co Auctions deliver national reach, competitive bidding and proven results – all with a fully managed process.

Submit your vehicle today or speak with our team.

👉 burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle

Or feel free to get in contact with a member of our team:

Ashley Burns 0408 618 294
Anton Cooper 0427 383 531
Phil Shaw (NSW / QLD) 0437 637 644

Now Live: April Muscle, Classic & Collectable Auction Underway

Pre-bidding is now OPEN and the online catalogue is live for Burns & Co’s April Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction, running across three big nights from Monday 13th to Wednesday 15th April 2026.

With a diverse catalogue spanning our Bayswater (Melbourne) and Beresfield (Newcastle) facilities, this auction presents a well-rounded offering of Aussie muscle, international classics, motorcycles and unique collector items.

Rather than a single headline vehicle, the April auction is defined by depth and variety, with a strong selection of highly desirable collector cars across multiple segments.

Leading the line-up is a rare 1970 Ford XW GT-HO Phase 1.5, a genuine and highly sought-after “in-between” homologation model with matching numbers and strong provenance. Holden performance is equally well represented, highlighted by a 1985 HDT VK SS Group A “Blue Meanie”, a genuine early-build 1986 VL SS Group A (Build No. 008), and a range of other Brock-era and HSV vehicles.

The catalogue also features standout international and custom offerings, including a 1953 Jaguar C-Type Recreation, a supercharged 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback, and a 1976 Porsche 911, appealing to both traditional collectors and enthusiasts seeking something unique.

American classics remain a strong component of the auction, with vehicles such as a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, Chevrolet El Camino and Cadillac Fleetwood, alongside a striking Chevrolet ‘Woody’ wagon and a highly desirable Nissan Skyline GT-R (R33), adding further depth and variety to the sale.

Motorcycle enthusiasts are also well catered for, with a strong selection of vintage and classic machines. Highlights include the iconic 1975 Honda CB750, a rare Suzuki RE5 rotary motorcycle, and a 1951 BSA A10 Golden Flash, representing both Japanese innovation and British heritage.

Across all three nights, the auction offers something for every level of buyer – from entry-level enthusiasts through to serious collectors.

With pre-bidding now underway, we encourage bidders to explore the catalogue early and get involved ahead of the live auction nights.

Auction Highlights

Burns & Co’s Muscle, Classic & Collectable Car & Motorcycle Auction: https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/april-muscle-classic-collectable-car-motorcycle-auction/

NIGHT 1
Monday 13th April 2026
Commencing 6:00pm AEST

NIGHT 2
Tuesday 14th April 2026
Commencing 6:00pm AEST

NIGHT 3
Wednesday 15th April 2026
Commencing 6:00pm AEST

Inspections

In-person inspection of these vehicles can be carried out at our Bayswater and Beresfield facilities on the following days:

Wednesday 8th April 9am–3pm
Thursday 9th April 9am–3pm
Friday 10th April 9am–3pm
Sunday 12th April 9am–12pm
Monday 13th April (day of auction) from 1pm onwards
Tuesday 14th April (day of auction) from 1pm onwards
Wednesday 15th April (day of auction) from 1pm onwards

Other times strictly by appointment.

For those unable to attend in person, video inspections can be arranged by contacting the team.

Note: Locations are identified via the VIC/NSW indicators on individual lot listings.

Bidding Information

Full online, floor, phone and absentee bidding available.

View the full catalogue and start bidding:
https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/

📞 Ashley Burns 0408 618 294
📞 Anton Cooper 0427 383 531
📞 Jason Todd 0400 321 919
📞 Phil Shaw (NSW / QLD) 0437 637 644

Looking to sell your car?

Burns & Co offer free, no obligation vehicle appraisals during inspection times (no appraisals available on Auction day).

👉 Submit your vehicle:
https://burnsandcoauctions.com.au/submit-your-vehicle/

Important Information

Buyer’s Premium will apply to all lots purchased:
9.9% for vehicles, 12.5% for motorcycles and 16.5% for all other items.

Payments are EFT or cash only (no cheques, EFTPOS or credit card).

All auction items are exempt from GST unless otherwise stated. The only GST payable is on the buyer’s premium.

Under no circumstances will any items be available for sale prior to the auction.