Air Force Refueller Up For Disposal

[Dave Homewood]

I just had a call from military vehicle collector Leonie Hopkins of Hamilton. She said they have an Air Force refueller, the type that was towed behind a tractor. They have had it for years and it's not in the best condition, but it does not fit into their core collection and they would like to see it go to a good home.

She also said they have a large gas bottle with Air Force written on it that they'd like to get rid of too.

Leonie is going to try to get me some photos soon to add here, but in the meantime if anyone is interested in learning more you can give her a call on 0274 942 652

[Dave Homewood]

Leonie has added this: "This unit has its own engine and appears to be a driven unit. There Is also a trailer that goes behind a vehicle available as well. The two units need some TLC as they are not pretty but if someone would think they need either of them we can load them for them. If anyone wants to look at pleas give me a call."

And she sent this photo:

[Bruce]

that one looks a bit like a Thompson - the Ashburton Aviation Museum has a beautifully restored example. Quite an unusual beast and a great conversation starter!

[Dave Homewood]

A couple more shots from Leonie tonight

[Bruce]

yes, it is indeed a Thompson refueller. They are a cool looking piece of 1950s aviation infrastructure. I hope someone does restore it!

[30sqnatc]

But is it really 'Air Force'? I've only seen photos of NZ domestic airline use. Definitely was not in RNZAF vehicle photo albums held in NA Wellington.