It’s the last chance for motoring enthusiasts to get their hands on the wheel of a highly sought-after 1946 Ford Jailbar truck, with ‘Bonnie’ to be raffled in Townsville this Sunday, July 7.
The black dual cab 4×4, valued at $200,000, has been restored and raffled for Motor Neurone Disease research by Australia’s largest transport and logistics insurance experts, NTI.
NTI’s Chief Customer Officer Janelle Greene says the organisation has raised more than $2 million in six years, with ‘Bonnie’ the seventh truck to be raffled.
“‘Bonnie’ is truly one-of-kind,” she says.
It took 2,500 hours to turn ‘Bonnie’ into what she is today – an on- and off-road vehicle with the latest technology
“She was one of the first vehicles we restored and has gained a large following after appearing at events across the country as NTI’s promo vehicle.
“We’re always asked by fans if we’d be up for selling her, and given she is in such demand, we thought we would put her popularity to good use, to help fundraise for this vital cause.
“We also wanted to say a special thank you to our supporters whose generosity set a new fundraising record last year.”
It took 2,500 hours to turn ‘Bonnie’ into what she is today – an on- and off-road vehicle with the latest technology which pays homage to its vintage heritage.
‘Bonnie’ is kitted out with a full leather trim, air-conditioning and touch-screen media
‘Bonnie’ features a custom-made bonnet, tub tray, side steps and rear guards, and a lengthened cab to accommodate two rear doors. The interior is kitted out with a full leather trim, air-conditioning and touch-screen media.
With a 5.2-litre turbo diesel engine, the team enhanced its off-road capabilities, turning it in to a 4WD with a 6.5-tonne electric winch, LED spotlights, and rear air suspension.
Last year’s truck, a lava orange Chevrolet named ‘Daphne’, raised almost $600,000 and NTI is hoping Bonnie’s ticket sales will generate a similar amount this year.
“The money raised is used to fund NTI’s official research grant, administered through the MND and Me Foundation,” Greene explains.
NTI Chief Customer Officer Janelle Greene and CEO Tony Clark raising money for Motor Neurone Disease research
“Every day in Australia two people die, and another two are diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. It’s time we found treatment options and ultimately a cure.”
NTI’s former CEO, Wayne Patterson, lost his battle with MND in 2018.
The winner of ‘Bonnie’ will be announced at the NTI Supercars Round in Townsville this Sunday, July 7. 2024.
Tickets available online here.