A copper bronze burnout machine with 1600 horsepower under the bonnet is heading from Darwin to Alice Springs and it is set to make its first ever appearance at Red CentreNATS, presented by LMCT+, from 5 to 7 September. 

Darwin local Joe Thring will debut his new VF Commodore ute, known as ORNATE, and it is already turning heads. Built to be as beautiful as it is powerful, ORNATE’s shimmering paint shifts in the light, while its methanol-fuelled V8 can turn tyres into thick smoke in seconds.  

“Every section of the car has been fine-tuned,” Joe said. 

“The engine is one thing, but the body, paint, tub and interior are next level. So much love and patience has gone into every decision. Even the bonnet went back and forth about a dozen times before we got it right. I hope people can see and appreciate all the hard work and effort that has gone into it.” 

While ORNATE will be on display in the Shannons Show ’n’ Shine at Lasseters, Joe will also bring his second burnout car, TURMOIL, to take on the famous pad. 

“I will be busy enough throwing TURMOIL around the pad, so it is a great chance for people to have a proper look at ORNATE on display,” Joe said. “The longer you look at it, the more you will appreciate the time and effort that has gone into the build.” 

“Red CentreNATS has such a strong community and family friendly vibe,” Joe said. “There are so many different sections, from the activities and displays at the showgrounds, to the cruise through town, the burnouts and the drags. There is something for everyone to enjoy across the weekend.  “I might be biased, but my favourite is the Pro Burnout Competition. Seeing cars from all over the country compete makes for an incredible atmosphere.” 

Joe is a strong supporter of events like Red CentreNATS and encourages others to get involved: “Events like the RCN are super important. I try to attend as many local events as possible because these things do not happen without competitor support,” Joe said. 

“For promoters to keep bringing big events to the NT, we need to have a great variety for spectators to keep coming back. The Red Centre is special for my family. We love coming here for this and the Finke Desert Race. They are both so unique in what you can do, and it is amazing to see the community spirit that comes with them.” 

His message to anyone thinking about entering or attending this year is simple: “Honestly, just get on board, you will not regret it,” Joe said. 

“It is like a giant weekend carnival. My wife, son and family all come along and there is something for everyone. And for those who think their car is not up to scratch, still come down. Everyone I meet is happy to share knowledge, lend a hand and offer support.” 

The 11th annual Red CentreNATS, presented by LMCT+, will take place in Alice Springs from 5 to 7 September 2025. 

JOE THRING
2017 VF COMMODORE UTE

THANKS

A massive thank you to the build team, they already know how much I appreciate their work. I have never done business with a company that is so dedicated to what they produce. The team has come to several events to provide not only technical support, but peer support too. Their ability to push the limits and do better has seen several parts of this build redone and improved upon and the timeframe for its completion has blown out by years because of it, but I couldn’t be happier. The Unwanted Automotive team has become part of the family.