The Military Vehicle Preservation Society of South Australia Incorporated (MVPSSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and exhibition of historic military vehicles and related equipment. Established in 1976, the Society comprises enthusiasts committed to maintaining Australia’s military heritage, with an emphasis on vehicles manufactured or utilized in Australia and South Australia, spanning from World War I through to contemporary conflicts.

History and Purpose

The MVPSSA originated with a small group of approximately 15 members and has since grown significantly. The Society’s core mission is to restore military vehicles to authentic, operational condition, enabling them to be displayed in a dynamic manner that reflects their historical function. The organization supports the preservation of military history through active restoration projects and by maintaining a comprehensive collection of military artifacts.

National Military Vehicle Museum

The Society operates the National Military Vehicle Museum located within Edinburgh Parks Defence precinct in South Australia. The museum is housed in historic World War II-era buildings that enhance the authenticity of the displays. Opened originally in 1993 at Port Adelaide, the museum later relocated to its current premises, offering a unique setting for its extensive collection.

The museum’s collection, predominantly owned by Society members, consists of over 250 historic military vehicles and equipment items, many fully restored to running condition and road-registered. These artifacts cover a broad period from the First World War to the present day and include both armored vehicles and ancillary military equipment. The operational vehicles are driven regularly at public events, demonstrating their historical use and functionality.

Activities and Contributions

Beyond museum operations, the Society is active in various restoration projects, including:

• Assisting South Australian Returned and Services League (RSL) clubs with the restoration of 25-pounder artillery pieces.
• Coordinating the restoration of a World War I artillery piece for an RSL club.
• Leading the restoration of the iconic Leyland Badger truck used by Tom Kruse, the famous "Mailman of the Birdsville Track," now exhibited permanently at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, South Australia.

The MVPSSA also maintains a strong international presence through its museum website and outreach efforts, attracting local, interstate, and global interest.

Membership

Membership in the Military Vehicle Preservation Society of South Australia offers a range of benefits, including:

• Access to the National Military Vehicle Museum and its workshops.
• Subscription to Olive Drab, the Society’s monthly newsletter covering Society activities, restoration projects, and historical research.
• Eligibility for historic vehicle registration within South Australia.
• Participation in special events and vehicle displays.
• Access to the Society’s extensive library and discounts from affiliated suppliers.

The Society operates entirely on a voluntary basis, relying on the dedication of its members to preserve and promote military vehicle heritage.

This organization plays a vital role in safeguarding an important aspect of Australian military history through hands-on preservation, public education, and community involvement.

[1] https://www.military-vehicle-museum.org.au [2] https://www.military-vehicle-museum.org.au/about-3/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Military_Vehicle_Museum [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/7575ff46-39af-e811-a961-000d3ad24182 [5] https://explore.history.sa.gov.au/organisation/national-military-vehicle-museum/