Post Updated June 9, 2026
Enthusiasts at the Talking Collector Cars seminar enjoyed a lively, collector-car discussion.
2026 Vancouver ABFM Forum Video
As the collector‑car world continues to evolve—shaped by shifting markets, new generations of enthusiasts, environmental considerations, and the enduring appeal of restoration craftsmanship—the conversations that bring the community together have never been more important.
The 2026 Talking Collector Cars – VIP Catered Reception, presented by Raymond James and powered by Hagerty and West Coast Dream Machines, offered exactly that: an evening dedicated to the stories, expertise, and shared passions that define the collector‑car hobby.
Held Friday, May 15, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM in VanDusen Garden Floral Hall, the catered reception and seminar served as an unofficial kickoff to the ABFM weekend. Car show entrants, collectors, restorers, and enthusiasts gathered for a relaxed, catered evening before the formal program began.
Attendance at the seminar did not require having a car in the Saturday ABFM show.
Program Highlights
At 6:15 PM, Patrick Stewart, Publisher of Western Driver and co‑event organizer of the Vancouver All British Field Meet/All Brit RUN, welcomed guests with opening remarks. The evening then transitioned into a moderated program led by Alyn Edwards—collector, restorer, retired broadcaster, and long‑time automotive columnist for the Vancouver Sun and Province. Edwards brought decades of storytelling experience and industry insight to the role.
The program featured three distinguished automotive specialists whose work continues to shape the collector‑car landscape:
Richard Owen — Owen Automotive
A restoration‑focused presentation with Q&A, offering a behind‑the‑scenes look at award‑winning craftsmanship and deep expertise in British marques.
David Hogg — West Coast Dream Machines
A timely overview of the collector‑car market, including trends in sales, service, design, and restorations.
Ross Bentley — Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit
Celebrated driver, respected trainer, and author, Bentley highlighted how the GAIN Group and Coachwerks Restoration support motorsports and the collector‑car movement through the Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit and related programs.
The evening concluded with an open forum discussion, giving attendees the opportunity to raise questions, share experiences, and engage directly with presenters—a format that sparked lively conversation and thoughtful exchanges.
A Gathering for Every Enthusiast
Whether a classic‑car owner, seasoned collector, restoration enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates the stories behind the cars, the Talking Collector Cars reception offered an evening of insight, camaraderie, and inspiration.
Stay tuned for future ABFM Talking Collector Car events designed to inform, inspire and bring the collector‑car community together once again.