Steve Irwin's iconic 1982 Toyota LandCruiser HJ47 Troop Carrier is going up for auction
Published on Aug 25, 2025 at 8:36 AM (UTC+4)
by Callum Tokody
Last updated on Aug 25, 2025 at 3:31 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
A Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier, owned by Steve Irwin, is going up for auction in Australia.
The vehicle was used at Australia Zoo, carrying staff and equipment across the 700-acre property.
It has more than 415,000 kilometres on the odometer and runs a Cleveland Ford V8.
Collectors will be watching closely as the Troop Carrier comes under the hammer later this month.
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Steve Irwin’s LandCruiser has an interesting backstory
The 1982 HJ47 Troop Carrier was an everyday workhorse at Australia Zoo.
Its white paint still shows ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ lettering, and it still has the aluminium bull bar fitted.
The chassis carries additional supports that reflect the demands of its working life.
Unlike most Troop Carriers, this example was fitted with a 4.9-litre Cleveland Ford V8 instead of the standard diesel.
Its provenance is supported by documentation, including a letter signed by Robert Irwin.
The LandCruiser was last offered publicly in 2013 when it appeared on eBay through Australia Zoo alongside Crocodile Hunter memorabilia.
A Sunshine Coast family purchased the vehicle and later undertook a careful restoration.
That work included major mechanical and electrical refurbishment, ensuring the Troop Carrier remained usable while retaining its character.
Bidding for Steve Irwin’s Toyota LandCruiser will open on Sunday, August 24, and close on Monday, September 1, 2025.
Collecting Cars is managing the sale, which has already drawn strong interest from enthusiasts.
Why the Troop Carrier is so beloved
The Toyota LandCruiser is a cornerstone of Australian automotive culture, valued for durability in rural and remote areas.
The Troop Carrier model, in particular, is regarded as one of the most practical and enduring versions.
With Steve Irwin’s connection, this vehicle carries significance beyond its mechanical role.
Australian car auctions in recent years have shown demand for vehicles with verifiable histories.
This Troop Carrier offers extensive documentation, modifications from its zoo service, and a restoration record, making it a unique listing.
Interest is expected from both LandCruiser collectors and those who value Irwin’s legacy.
The auction places this vehicle in the overlap of automotive history and Australian cultural identity, making it one of the most notable sales of 2025.
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Callum Tokody is a content writer at Supercar Blondie, where he covers the latest in the automotive world with a focus on design and performance. Callum has a background in automotive journalism and has contributed to a range of publications in Australia and the UK. Outside of work, he’s a design enthusiast with a soft spot for anything with a V8 and a good story.
