Military hardware at Frankton Thunder
Grant Moreland runs the Tauwhare Military Museum at Matangi, an extensive private collection of historic military vehicles, antique weapons, uniforms and memorabilia begun by his late dad, Andy, more than 50 years ago.
For last year’s Frankton Thunder in Hamilton, Grant brought out the 1960s six-wheeled British Sarasen scout car.
But for 2020 he plans to travel further back in time to the era of World War II and bring out the 1943 American-built White half-track (built by the White Truck company which continues to build heavy vehicles in the US today).
Used as a personnel and ammunition carrier the remains of the vehicle were retrieved from the jungles of Vanuatu where it had been abandoned.
“It was a complete basket case. It had been used as part of a sawmill. When mum saw it she just made the comment that we were as silly as we looked — but a couple of years latter we had it finished.”
The job required finding another engine — a ‘flat’ six of about 300 cubic inches. As a result of international inquiry, one was located in Holland 60-odd years after it was built and still in it’s original 1940s packing case.
Behind this he plans to tow one of his recently completed projects — a 1942 British 2lb anti-tank gun.
“We got it as a total mess from Australia where it had been built by GM Holden. It was in a million bits and took about six months to get it together.
“The two-pounder was used extensively during the early stages of North African campaign but proved inadequate against German armour. However, it continued to be used with success in the Pacific. In service condition the gun would have a crew of six and be towed behind a Jeep or 1500cw truck.”
Now in its fifth year Frankton Thunder has expanded to become a truly community show while retaining its roots as an automotive festival.
Frankton Thunder 2020, is in Commerce St, Frankton, Hamilton, on Sunday April 5, 9am to 4pm. Admission free. The event supports the community work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. The day includes food stalls, live music and street entertainment.
The action begins with the Thunder Cruize and Toys for Charity run, which invites anyone with an interesting vehicle or motorcycle to assemble at the Cambridge Race Course, Taylor St Cambridge. This commonly attracts around 100 vehicles and will leave for Frankton at 9.30am.