A rare collection of vintage tractors restored in Western Gippsland will go under the hammer next month, with collectors from across Australia and overseas already expressing interest in what has been described as the “auction of the decade”.
The online auction, presented by ME Auctions, features the Robinson Collection – a group of 18 restored tractors and vintage vehicles assembled over many years by the late Mr Robinson and his son.
Auction organisers say the sale has attracted significant attention from international collectors, particularly in Germany, the birthplace of the iconic Lanz Bulldog tractors that form the centrepiece of the collection.
Among the most notable items is a rare 1935 German-built Lanz Bulldog crawler, which was reportedly rescued from being scrapped by Mr Robinson senior before being painstakingly restored.
Also included in the sale are a 1418 Mercedes-Benz tray truck and a 1947 Oldsmobile.
The collection includes 12 Lanz Bulldog tractors ranging from 17 to 50 horsepower, all restored to running condition.
Known for their durability and versatility, Lanz Bulldogs became popular during World War II because they could operate on a range of fuels, including crude oil, sump oil and diesel, at a time when fuel supplies were limited.
The tractors are also renowned for their unique starting process, using a blow torch to heat a “hot bulb” engine before manually turning the crankshaft by hand.
Other historic machines in the auction include a grey and gold Ferguson tractor from the 1950s, a Chamberlain 40K and two late-1940s Massey Harris tractors.
The online auction will be held on June 14 from 10am, with inspection opportunities available on June 6 and June 13 between 12pm and 2pm.
