A 1971 model C1800 International is continuing to earn its keep for Tasmanian farmer Scott Hansen all year round – even when it’s not carting pears.
For about nine months it is parked at the entrance to Scott’s farm at Nubeena, located on the Tasman Peninsula about 100km from Hobart.
Whilst stationary, the International has their business advertising signs on the sides.
For the other three months the old girl drives between the two farms run by the family.
“It has a restricted licence for travel just between our farms and is used to carry pears from here to Hobart. It had two or three owners before me and has been down here all its life,” Scott said.
A fourth generation member of the family, which has grown pears and some apples, Scott said a 2005 P4 Scania carts farm pears these days.
“We supply most of the pears to Woolworths in Tasmania and deliver them to Brighton where they are distributed. Independent stores also take our pears which are sent to distribution points at Cambridge and Hobart,” Scott continued.
The first truck the farms had was a 1930 model Morris Commercial.
“I am 64 and it worked before my time but I do have memories of sitting in it when I was a kid. The chassis is still on our property,” Scott added.
Scott’s grandfather Oscar Ernest Hansen started growing pears near Nubeena in 1920 at the same orchard.
Scott’s son Thomas is now also involved at the farms.