An agreement with Ampol has allowed the display of the company's extensive collection of Golden Fleece items for the first time.
It offers a unique look at Australia’s motoring history.
Named after the Golden Fleece service station brand - which became part of the greater Ampol Caltex group in the 1980s - the 450-piece collection will provide the public with an exciting opportunity to view the entire collection in one location.
A fully restored 1948 Fargo fuel tanker is a highlight of the collection, and will be at home in The Depot’s purpose-built space.
The diverse collection also includes items such as model cars, funnels, indoor and outdoor signage, bowsers and fuel tins.
The nostalgic will enjoy looking back on road maps, menus, and other paraphernalia.
Originally a private collection, Ampol purchased the Golden Fleece memorabilia in 2018 with a plan to showcase it to the public.
The Depot was the obvious choice to host the display.
It’s part of the Purtill Group, which managing director Neville Purtill said is an Ampol distributor with more than 70 years of involvement with the transport and fuel industry.
“We’re thrilled to have collaborated with Ampol on the display of this fantastic Golden Fleece collection,” Mr Purtill said.
“It’s an honour to be entrusted with the care of these unique and important pieces of Australian history.
“Getting collections out of dusty sheds for the public to enjoy has been our dream all along.
“Stories are best shared and visitors love stepping back 30, 40 and 50 years in time.”
The purpose-built facility is already home to a significant collection of local and overseas vehicles, with the Golden Fleece collection another drawcard for those keen to learn more about Australia’s motoring past.
The site also provides a safe location for the memorabilia so it can be enjoyed for years to come.
The unveiling of the collection was timed to coincide with the 2023 Ampol Distributor Conference last week, to allow distributors and employees from around the country to be the first visitors to browse the display.
In addition to the new exhibit, visitors to The Depot can also enjoy the Purtill family’s vast collections and the American style 1950s diner.
Iconic vehicles on display include a 1981 DMC-12 DeLorean, similar to the model used in the filming of Back to the Future, and a 1948 OB CAC Bedford Bus, affectionately called ‘Rosie’, recognised as the oldest continually registered school bus in Australia.
Memorabilia displays depict Australian life in a bygone era including full lounge room and kitchen setups, along with 'Keith's Corner' - a touching area that invites visitors into a pop’s shed-style setup featuring personal items from late Purtill Group founder, Keith Purtill.
Members of the public can see the Golden Fleece memorabilia as part of their general entry fee, with no upgrade required to enjoy the new display.
Entry fees are $17.50 for adults, and $14 for children (6 to 17 years) and seniors. Family rates are also available.
The Depot is open daily from 10am to 4pm at 158 Hardinge Street, Deniliquin. Learn more about the collection at www.depotdeni.com.au.
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