News
12 June, 2024
Gear the engines
The Caboolture Historical Village will be the place to be as the Antique Machinery Restoration Society of Queensland (AMRSQ) stages its 46th annual vintage machinery rally.
People and clubs from the Moreton Bay, Somerset, South Burnett, Sunshine Coast and Ipswich areas are set to attend the rally on the weekend of June 22 and 23.
A number of steam-run machines and other machinery in the sheds will be on show, while exhibitors bring along some very rare items.
One of the big machines is old laundry equipment, from Fort Lytton’s quarantine station, which is run by a single antique gas powered engine.
Another item will be a ZA Crossley gas engine, believed to be the only one in the world that still operates.
Other features of the rally will include vintage cars, trucks, tractors, working displays, a grand parade, and a bric-a-brac stall.
AMRSQ president Steve Porter said a lot of the engines were more than 100 years old.
“Before electric motors, these machines ran whole factories,” he said.
“Back then it was 32 volts with things like radios, irons and fridges, while now it’s more like 240 volts.
“Nowadays there’s also diesel generators and a national electrical grid supplying industry.
“We try to keep this equipment running. It’s part of our history.
“It’s good to look back to see where we’ve come from, and see the advancement in industries.”
Steve said learning the history of machinery and the changes in the industry could also help farmers with harvesting and agriculture.
“When you understand basic principles, you can apply yourself to anything,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter whether or not you have a background in the automotive field or a background in machinery.” Steve said new members were always welcome.
Entry to the rally will be $10 for adults, and $5 for children aged 6 to 16 years. Children aged 5 and under will be admitted for free.
