Global Transport Collectables
GTrans International Pty Ltd (GTrans) is passionate about “Recreating an Experience” to satisfy its customers’ often intimate knowledge of the ‘real thing’.
Specializing in the manufacture of scratch-built, high-quality precision desk top and display model
- ocean liners, merchant ships and naval vessels,
- civilian and military aircraft,
- locomotives and rolling stock, and
- road vehicles,
GTrans employs rigorous quality assurance procedures at all stages of production to deliver an authentic and affordable article. The company’s unequalled reputation for precision in manufacture and on-going customer service means that its replica models will last for generations and increase in value over time.
GTrans looks forward to ‘Recreating your Experience’ with one of its fine, handcrafted and timeless pieces.
Latest News
JULY 2009 – SERENGETI SHALL NOT DIE
GTrans recently replicated a scaled model of the Dornier 27 used by filmmaker Michael Grzimek in the 1959 Oscar-winning documentary, “Serengeti Shall Not Die”. The film highlighted the plight of endangered animals throughout Africa and in particular, the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. It was the second film made by this celebrated young conservationist; the first being a documentary of the book, “No Room for Wild Animals” written by his Father, Zoo keeper, Dr Bernard Grzimek.
The Dornier 27, purchased in late 1957, was painted in Zebra stripes and used initially to survey the entire Serengeti and map the movements of the great herds across its plains. Michael donated a percentage of the film profits to the Park.
Over its life, the Dornier was also used as an air ambulance for victims of buffalo attacks, pregnant rangers' wives and malarial tourists, was a troop-carrier on anti-poaching operations and a giant shopping trolley for inhabitants of the Serengeti.
Despite his flying skills and the Dornier's strength, there were several accidents. Once, on take-off, a zebra suddenly raced under the plane, and a leg was bent back, and with three passengers aboard, Michael flew to Nairobi where he had to circle using up excess fuel before making a perfect landing.
Tragically, Michael's luck ran out a few months later when he hit a vulture while flying near the Sanjan Gorge east of the Serengeti Plains. The leading edge of the wing was damaged and Michael lost control, crashed and was killed instantly. He was buried on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater and his headstone reads "He gave all he possessed for the wildlife of Africa, including his life." He was just twenty-five.
In just two years this tireless young man made many friends of all races, moved wildlife conservation and management to a new airborne age, and set an example of selfless and energetic devotion to conservation.
