1942 K4 International

Its a 1942 K4 International, left USA in November 1942 as a "Lend Lease" vehicle for the Country Fire Brigades Board (now known as CFA, name changed in 1944). Went to Alf A. Mitchell Body Builders in Kavanagh St., South Melbourne to be finished off as a Fire Engine, and went into service in February 1943 at Geelong. After about six months it transferred to Frankston where is was stationed for 6 years and following that was stationed at Lilydale, Watchem and finally Rochester retiring in 1970. A big brass bell was mounted behind the driver's seat. The body work is pretty unique for that time, it is metal shaped over woodwork. It carried about 8 firemen and those that could not get a seat, stood on the runningboard at the rear and held on to the runningrail above. Pictured in one of the photos is the engine turning out from Frankston Fire Station in 1944. The amidship pump produced 350 gallons on water per minute and a intake and delivery point was on both sides of the vehicle. It had no water tank like the trucks of today and was purely a pumper, so it was stationed in towns where there were hydrants in the streets. The hose trays are at the rear of the vehicle.

Article Submited by Club member Rob Bruce and Vintage Fire Engine Rides for Hire