Entertainment
18 September, 2025
Rare army tank a Muster feature
A RARE tank, nicknamed “Colonel Gore,” which has been expertly restored to running condition by military collector Graham Newbury, will be a star attraction at the North Queensland Military Muster.
The tank initially saw combat in and around of Buna in New Guinea against invading World War II forces from Japan in 1942 as part of the Australian Army 2/6 Armoured Regiment.
Bogged and battered, the tank and its crew blazed through challenging jungles and swamps and helped crack fortified Japanese positions on numerous occasions, paving the way for eventual Australian Army success in the eastern coastal section of the Papua New Guinea battlefront.
To be held at the Spanish Club precincts at Chewko Road, the Military Muster is a popular annual event which will showcase military vehicles and militaria this weekend.
“Military transport vehicles, field pieces, uniforms and collectors’ items will comprise the display as an annual mark of respect and appreciation for our veterans of all wars and conflicts,” 2025 Mareeba Military Muster co-ordinator Michael Musumeci said.
He said that anyone who owned a military vehicle such as a jeep or truck could make contact via phone on 0488 285 032 and come along to the Mareeba Military Muster weekend.
