As winner of our Australia’s Best Cars competition, Joanne West (with partner Peter Hudson, both from Sydney), was flown to Melbourne for the Awards on November 22.

Joanne entered because “the thought of attending an awards ceremony sounded glamorous – just like the Oscars minus the red carpet”.

They enjoyed a superb lunch and the awards, which were “zippy just like the nominated cars”.

They also got to hobnob with leaders from the car industry and enjoy overnight accommodation and dinner at the RACV Club.

“It was very elegant,” says Joanne.