Sun shines on 2019 Tasmanian Truck Show

The number of entrants in the 2019 Tasmanian Truck Show might have been down from 2018, but the quality and presentation of the machinery was some of the best seen in years. The show is hosted by the Lions Club of Deloraine at the spacious Agfest site just out of Carrick, 20 minutes west of Launceston in February each year.

The downturn in numbers was attributed the large number of fires still burning in the state.

Nonetheless, it was pleasing to see a number of fleets that made a huge effort to have their equipment highly polished and on display, with models that included a wide example of Kenworths from Gradco and a broad selection of Treloar's International models, from early Inters to the latest ProStar.

Hazel Bros had its K200 on display coupled to the first full-size A-Double, which is about to enter service in the state under a high-productivity PBS vehicle scheme. We've booked a detailed follow-up article on this unit when it goes into service.

Also on hand was one of the firm's heavy-haulage V8 Value-liners; you can read more about this particular truck and a heavy haulage push pull operation here and to hear and see it in operation on YouTube here.

Another interesting truck on display was a 1959 Mack B75 with L-Cab. This imported truck is from Dick Beckett's collection and it was an absolute pleasure to see it up close at the show. The B75 was a highway series with a longer bonnet than the B61 models commonly sold in Australia during the '60s.

The larger bonnet meant more legroom and improved steering angle for long-haul operations. The 'L' designation featured more aluminium components to reduce weight. This B75 was powered by a Mack Thermodyne that produced 205hp and 615lb/ft. To get an idea of how much longer the B75 bonnet was compare it to the B61 with the log jinker on the back.

Highland Haulage's recently restored LTL certainly attracted plenty of admirers and according to reports had only just returned from a trip across to Perth, WA. A quick bit of history on the LTL model: Ford introduced this model in 1976 as an affordable model for long-haul drivers and as a competitor to the Mack Superliner, Peterbilt 359, Kenworth W900 and GMC General.

The longer bonnet and forward-set front axle allowed room for larger engines and was a mechanic's dream, as there was easy access for routine servicing under the bonnet.

CR & S Jones presented their 4800 Western Star complete with tautliner and T909 hauling a drop-deck with the old International in which owner Calvin Jones began his trucking career.

Meantime there were also plenty of activities for the kids with a jumping castle, mini-jeeps and roller balls all on hand to keep the littlies smiling.

The aim of the Lions Club is to provide a central location for dealers, owners and drivers to display their trucks and to actively promote safety within the trucking industry.