In this episode, Fletch visits Allan, a true mechanical master.
Allan's great grandfather immigrated from Ireland in 1884, settled the family in Lismore, and they have been there ever since. Allan now resides on a 100-acre property adjoining the original family property and has accumulated an overwhelming collection of vehicles, including cars, trucks and stationary engines. There are just too many to name.
First up, we go through Allan's workshop. At first sight, it looks unorganised, but Allan knows everything there and has everything he needs. He likes everything original and unrestored. There are projects everywhere, in every corner, including the roof. But what's impressive is that they are in working order.
We walk from the main shed to numerous shipping containers where Allan opens the doors to reveal vehicles and machinery for the late 1800s to early 1900s, he primes them a little, cranks them over, and they spring to life, the engines running perfectly.
One vehicle that holds a powerful connection is his grandfather's 1927 Dodge which he still drives today. Allan shares photos of the early adventures and the family history of the Dodge.
With vehicles and machinery spread across the property, none of it is lost or forgotten; Allan knows every piece of machinery and its history. He understands and appreciates technology from another era. There isn't a task that Allan can't perform, and he has machines to do it. It's just astonishing.
