One of the major challenges in getting six racing cars to an event is their transportation. For most, it involved six tow vehicles and six trailers. This was a logistical nightmare. The solution was to either use a truck, semi trailer or some kind of bus. The problem with the truck or semi was that its role would be limited to transporting vehicles only and would be minimal value at the circuit. On the other hand a bus would provide a reasonable level of comfort in traveling to the event and for long journeys to the east would allow for sleeping, cooking and other benefits whilst en route. In addition, a bus could allow easy access to the vehicle when you arrived at the event and excellent vision to watch the races if needed.

The next major decision was to select the right kind of bus. The ex MTT Mercedes could be acquired at a reasonable cost but all had done over a million kilometers and the rear engine configuration could be very expensive and difficult to repair if a major mechanical problem arose. In the end we found a late model Mitsubishi bus which was used in Tasmania to transport miners. It was mechanically perfect but had significant industrial cancer (rust).

Spot Johnno........ What famous V8 driver took to the top of the WARM transporter at Phillip Island Historic meet in 2007

With the help of Bevan Neaves, Bob Betts and Trevor Hill we stripped it to the frame. Extra supports were included to carry the cars (two high) and the back door hinged to allow rear entry. The body was then clad in aluminum and painted. To keep the registration low we fitted a fridge, stove and beds to enable it to be licenced as a mobile caravan (50% reduction in fees). We built it to allow us to get two cars in the back, two cars on the roof as well as towing two cars behind. The major constraint was that we needed to be able to load them ourselves without any outside help. A hydraulic boom was designed and fitted to the roof supports with a 5 ton 24 volt Toyota winch fitted under the floor. The cable then passes up through the boom and can be used to lift the cars to the required height.

I was keen to ensure that the bus was not exclusive and was open to all the participants and their families. At the event, the bus provides a base for competitors and their friends to shelter, make a cup of coffee and get together. We were eager to ensure that the bus would provide the right atmosphere. The bus is able to carry a large range of tools and parts which has assisted many a competitor keep their cars going through out the day. Even the large air tanks have fixed many a flat tyre.

The bus has proved its worth in getting a large number of vehicles and equipment to Phillip Island as well as events around Western Australia.