TOPICAL at this time of year is a curious display at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre of a 1915 Model 80 Willys Overland car.

With the aim of Movember to raise awareness about men's health issues, a 6000 kilometre odyssey around Queensland in the old truck was seen as a better way to raise awareness of men's health issues particularly in regional and remote areas where a "she'll be right mate" attitude prevails among the men of the communities.

The brains trust behind the vehicle Lang Kidby and Carl Neilsen restored the vehicle in preference to the Model T of the era as it was faster and more comfortable to drive over the notorious outback Queensland roads.

Carl Neilsen was particularly keen to get the prostate cancer message out to men after he had his own encounter with it at age 40- something he believes he was blissfully ignorant about, as most men are.

You can view more details of the trip at www.willys.com.au or view the truck in November at the cultural centre before the prized truck moves permanently to the Queensland Transport Museum.