THE FORD Canada Blitz truck being restored by Logan Village RSL is nearly back to its former glory thanks to the generous support of local businesses and the community.
The 1944 vintage World War II truck, originally configured as a military ambulance, was donated to the RSL about 18 months ago by local resident Terry Hurst.
It became a major project for the RSL to restore the vehicle back to running condition, with local businesses and the community rallying around to get the Blitz back on the road.
Local business overhauled the Blitz's engine, replaced its doors, tyres and brakes, rewired the electrical system, replaced missing parts, repainted it, reupholstered the seats, installed a new wooden tray and added camouflage netting with ambulance markings.
The truck was able to run under its own power at this year's Anzac Parade but the restoration project has now effectively been completed with only a few minor matters left to sort out.
RSL president Terry Flanagan said the project had cost the RSL about $8000 and would have cost double without local business support.
The RSL is in the process of organising a special purpose registration for the Blitz so it can be driven on the road in events such as Anzac Day parades and at local festivals.
"It will be great to have it involved in the 100 year Anzac Centenary celebrations," he said.
Former Logan Village RSL vice-president Dennis Love was one of those who had helped with the restoration and said the restoration had been a rewarding and worthwhile project.
"The most rewarding thing is it's driving again," he said.
For more information on the Blitz or to contribute, contact Terry Flanagan on 0432 535 413.
