From the 3/4th Cavalry Regiment to My Garage: My Journey with the Ex Military Land Rover Defender "Perentie"

The moment I laid my on the ex-military Land Rover Defender "Perentie," I felt an instant connection. This robust, no-nonsense vehicle is much more than just transport; it's a piece of history with a fascinating background and more importantly it was a blank canvas to start life again with a slightly different goal in mind this time around. This particular example served in the Australian Army under the 3/4 Cavalry Regiment, often called the Stinger Regiment, this perentie had no idea what it was about to be in for.

Day 1 : Thurgoona Maccas, because all important road-trips start with a Maccas feed. P.S those oil leaks arent from this Landy ;)

The 3/4 Cavalry Regiment: A Storied Legacy

The 3/4 Cavalry Regiment, established in 1967, has played a vital part in the Australian Army. Not just known for their mobility, this unit has been deployed in crucial operations. For instance, they were actively involved in the East Timor conflict during the late 1990s, where the Perentie demonstrated its capability to navigate tough terrains. In challenging conditions, the regiment's effectiveness was notable; they managed to provide crucial support that contributed to mission success.

The Perentie isn't just a vehicle; it represents the stories and sacrifices of the soldiers who operated it. Each dent and mark on it signifies resilience. That's why I've chosen to just maintain its body panels and paintwork. Many people who buy these vehicles decide to undergo a full restoration, whilst some are deserving, I believe in most cases they will never be a museum piece. They worked hard in the military and deserve to have there spirit maintained. If it ain't broke don't fix it.

My Perentie in service

Relocation and Decommissioning

In a notable shift, the 3/4 Cavalry Regiment relocated to Melbourne, becoming part of the School of Armour. This transition was significant for both the regiment and its vehicles, including the Perentie, which had served for years. Its final service was on April 30, 2020, in preparation for auction.

Entering Some Naive 20something Yr Olds Life

My journey with the Perentie began at Pickles Auctions on February 7, 2023. I am quite an impulsive person and as my old company was shutting down, I needed a daily driver for working the trade. Perenties have always been on the radar and now being in my price range I was ready for it to redefine my whole personality. Winning the auction was the best feeling ever, even if I "overpaid" - according to everyone who picked one up in 2012 for 6k hahaha.

A more recent photo, exploring my local tracks

The real adventure kicked off on February '23 when I flew to Thurgoona in Albury, NSW, to retrieve my new vehicle. Google suggested the drive back to the Central Coast would take about six hours. In reality, it took a lot longer than that! (At least it wasn't overnight). First time starting it and rolling out of the auction compound, I had no brakes, so I was in it for the long run. I sat out the front of the compound for a while diagnosing, but it turned out to be just a stiff pedal and with no brake fluid leaks I set off to the nearest supercheap for spares.

The drive back was one I'll remember for the rest of my life, canvas flapping on the freeway, the agricultural smell of the Isuzu diesel, and undiminished character of a tuff land rover that felt unstoppable. Honestly, it was an absolute beast. When it starts I'm convinced the road shakes underneath it and I wouldn't have it any other way.