RAAF Derrick Trucks

[Jared Archibald]

G'day everyone,

I have a mate who is chasing what I believe to be a Chevrolet RAAF Derrick Truck.
I have been trying to find some info on these but have come up with very little so far. I believe they are a mid-wheel base CMP truck with a large winch mounted behind the cab (above the chassis), all controls going to the driver, and a large crane - vertical mast with cable operated jib - worked by the winch. I believe the jib could not slew, but I may be wrong about this.

I have found a small picture on Rod Diery's site but he states that it is a derrick off a ship. I have however seen other photos of these vehicles. I was sure there was at least one on OldCMP but I cannot seem to find it now. It was taken from the rear and was in South Australia from memory.

Can anyone supply any pictures or information about these very interesting trucks?

Jared