Aussie brand Terrain Tamer has purchased the late Steve Irwin’s iconic 1982 Toyota LandCruiser Troop Carrier.

Before 2013, the Crocodile Hunter’s HJ47 lived at Australia Zoo on the Sunshine Coast, where it ferried staff and handled duties. A local family bought it in 2013, before it recently went under the hammer again with an impressive 415,000km on the clock.

During its time with those owners, the Troopy received a 4.9-litre Cleveland Ford V8 in place of the original diesel, plus a range of mechanical and electrical upgrades – including Terrain Tamer suspension. Fittingly, it was the trademark yellow shocks that first caught the company’s attention.

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“Over the years, customers have learned that if you just want a 4-inch lift, we’re probably not for you, but if you want to survive the outback and all of its demands, then Terrain Tamer Suspension should be your first choice,” said General Manager Brent Hutchinson.

“One customer recently shared that he believes the industry perception is that Terrain Tamer are the best parts around for hard-working LandCruisers, so it feels like a natural fit that this Troopy would be fitted with our suspension and should come to us, where it can be shared with other enthusiasts and operators who appreciate its significance,” he said.

“LandCruisers are a cornerstone of Australian automotive culture, and the Troopy in particular is known for being rugged and practical. With the connection to Steve Irwin, there’s an overlap of cultural identity and automotive history beyond anything mechanical,” Hutchinson added.

The vehicle still wears its “The Crocodile Hunter” branding, and comes with full documentation of modifications, provenance papers, and a signed letter from Steve Irwin’s son, Robert.

Terrain Tamer hasn’t confirmed long-term plans for the Troopy, but for now it will be on display at the Classic LandCruiser Expo & Car Show, Caboolture Showgrounds, on October 18.