The museum is operated on a voluntary basis by members of the Military Vehicle Preservation Society of South Australia. The Society is one of many Military Vehicle Clubs across Australia and throughout the world and is dedicated to the preservation of vehicles that are of military origin.
This unique museum was opened in August 1993 at the old Messenger Press building at Port Adelaide, but has now relocated to a group of historic Second World War era buildings within the Edinburgh Parks Defence precinct. The majority of the vehicles are privately owned by the Society members and therefore each member is responsible for their own vehicles. In addition the vehicles are not just restored to look at, they are rebuilt to authentic running condition and most are road registered and driven regularly. Military vehicles and items date from the First World War to the modern period.
We currently have over 110 members including 2 members living overseas, accounting for over 250 historic and military vehicles. Members take vehicles to various events throughout South Australia.
Membership of the Military Vehicle Preservation Society of SA entitles you to receive Olive Drab, the club’s monthly newsletter plus other benefits. These include free unlimited access to the extensive Club library; club discounts from a variety of suppliers; participation in Club events; free unlimited access to the National Military Vehicle Museum; eligibility for Historic Vehicle Registration (for residents of South Australia only); free secure undercover space in the Museum to house and display vehicles subject to availability and committee approval; access to the Museum Workshop for vehicle maintenance renovation purposes by arrangement with the workshop manager.