After many years of owning (and maintaining) an 85 year old classic motorcruiser around Moreton Bay, we decided to give wheeled travel a go. (Well really, I decided and then had to convince my wonderful wife of 38 years)

I chose to convert an ex-school bus and flew to Melbourne with my (mechanic) son, looked at two, chose one and then drove it 1750k's back to the Gold Coast. It was a testament to the previous great service, maintenance and condition that this trip was completely trouble free.

I chose two young blokes from Roaming Homes at Varsity Lakes on the Gold Coast to do the conversion due to their enthusiasm, skills and attitude. This has turned out very well and we are very pleased with the workmanship.

The only "down side" to the 27 year old Hino AC140K is the noticeable engine noise coming from the healthy, 5.8 litre, 6 cylinder diesel that is between the driver and passenger. When I was investigating the Hino, I asked one seller from Melbourne if the position of the engine made it very noisy. His "Australian" reply " You know it's there!" is memorable. Extra soundproofing, both in and on the engine box has still not turned this into a Rolls Royce whisper and ear plugs are a welcome addition. As a Diesel/hydraulic mechanic of 40 years, I like to know what my machinery is telling me and this engine cannot be ignored. Having said that, the engine technology is "old school" with no electronics, turbochargers, or gizmos to cause problems when away from civilization.

6.5 k's to the litre for the Melbourne - Gold Coast trip was good news also.

The first trip was an easy trip from Nerang to Caloundra to celebrate a dear friend's birthday. This was trouble free and so we are looking forward to more distant adventures.

We are set up for free-camping and as an old (Queen's Badge) Boys Brigade member, quiet creeks, empty campsites are beckoning. The collected wisdom of this group will be utilized to it's fullest.

Thanks for accepting our joining request.

( The rego MAX 140 is a memorial to a faithful, 4 legged friend who passed on after 14 years, and the (hopefully equally faithful) Hino AC140K.

Beaso