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Win this resto-mod truck and help MND research
A custom-built 1947 Chevrolet Maple Leaf truck, brought back to life with modern engineering, is the latest vehicle to be restored and raffled to raise funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research.
This striking red and black light truck, named ‘Ruby’, is the ninth to be raffled by Australia’s largest transport and logistics specialist insurance provider, NTI, in support of the MND and Me Foundation.
Since 2017, NTI has raised more than A$3 million for this vital research.
Now mounted on a Hino 4×4 chassis and running gear, and powered by a Hino four-litre turbo-diesel engine, Ruby combines vintage character with modern performance, continuing NTI’s tradition of transforming classic trucks into one-of-a-kind collector’s items.
In keeping with her post-War heritage, Ruby has a six-speed manual transmission.
The truck comes equipped with an exhaust brake, front and rear ABS disc brakes, and vehicle stability and traction control. Up front is a six-tonnes capacity electric winch and, at the rear, a 3.5-tonnes-capacity tow bar.
Inside, modern comforts are seamlessly integrated, including electric windows, air conditioning, a touch-screen media system and a reversing camera.
NTI CEO Janelle Greene said the organisation is proud to continue its commitment to funding research aimed at finding a cure for MND.
“NTI became involved with MND after our former CEO, Wayne Patterson, was diagnosed with the disease and later passed away,” Ms Greene said.
“Our approach of restoring and raffling classic trucks has brought together our people, partners, customers and the broader community in an incredible show of support.
“I think Wayne would be amazed and humbled by what this initiative has achieved.”
MND and Me Foundation CEO Jane Milne said the partnership with NTI continues to have a profound impact on those living with the disease, and their families too.
“We support people and their families and carers from the moment they are diagnosed through to end-of-life care,” Ms Milne said.
“This can include everything from equipment and home modifications to psychological and grief counselling.
“On the research side, consistent funding through the NTI MND Research Grant has been critical, enabling leading institutions such as the University of Queensland, the Queensland Brain Institute and the Clive Berghofer Medical Research Institute to undertake vital work in the search for a cure or effective treatments.”
Ruby will be on display at upcoming regional events including Downunder Beachfest, Caloundra in May and Cooly Rocks On in June, before the raffle is drawn at the NTI Townsville 500 on Sunday 12 July 2026.
Tickets are available online via Raffletix.
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