The Watson's brought their Mack HRV to the event, with a 1983 Mercedes-Benz Unimog on the trailer, as part of the Year of the Heavy Metal and Military Kit theme, and it was an impressive addition to the collection of military vehicles on display.
Chris, who has been fascinated with military vehicles since childhood, and Margaret said the truck was a late purchase last year, and they were delighted to showcase it at the event.
“We've got around 30 military vehicles, but this is a significant addition to our collection, and it's exciting to see it among other impressive vehicles here in Corowa. It’s a beast,” Margaret said.
“We've always loved coming to the Swim In and being part of this community of enthusiasts. It's great to see the passion and dedication that people have for these vehicles. There’s great camaraderie.”
Another unique “beast” at this year’s event was Richard den Brinker’s American Army WWII M4 high speed gun tractor- made to tow cannons.
“This one was specifically made to carry a 155mm ‘long tom’ or cannon,” Richard said.
“It was the biggest mobile cannon the American Army had that they commonly used. The cannon itself is 15 tonnes and 10 metres long.
“It holds a crew of 11 people, and all the ammunition in a box in the back. There would be a crane that would lift the shells out.”
Richard purchased the vehicle around 12 months ago.
“It took me five years to find one,” he said.
“They are quite rare. At a guess, there’s probably only 15 or 20 that go in the world. This one is the only one in Australia that goes. There’s another one in a museum in South Australia on display.
“I’ve got a lot of military vehicles and this one just appealed to me. I’ve got mates with tanks, but you can’t really carry people around. This vehicle is quite open and user friendly.”
Richard said he enjoyed coming to Corowa each year.
“I’ve been coming for 10 years. It’s the largest meet in the Southern Hemisphere,” he said.
“I’ve got friends with amphibious vehicles, and we enjoy playing about on the river. The Swap Meet is great for parts and information, and you see things you don’t see anywhere else.”
