by The Phonj » Fri Jul 08, 2016 10:48 am
307 Volvo B59's were built by PMC (Adelaide) for the STA Adelaide, the first being launched in 1977 and the last being retired in 2003. Three chassis were ordered as spares but never bodies. This was a common practice of the MTT for larger bus orders and dates back to at least the days of the Leyland Worldmasters. 1160 is preserved by the Queensland Omnibus and Coach Society and is registered. Queensland were happy to register them in original, overwidth condition so many did end up there. There are four that I am aware of that have been preserved in SA - 1001, 1200, 1286 and 1300, but I do not believe that any are registered. I haven't seen or heard of 1286 in some time so am unaware of its current status. 1300 is still "on track" at Mile End depot and has made a couple of visits to the National Railway Museum over the last four years to participate in events for that museum.
The vehicle located on the corner of Stradbroke and Montacute Rds is still there, but is not a Volvo B59; but an older vehicle - a Daimler Roadliner, AEC Swift (400, 500 or 600 series), or possibly the prototype Mercedes Benz or prototype Magirus Deutz. While the B59 has a similar design there are variances in the bodywork; specifically window shapes and designs to denote a difference between the two.