Philanthropist Gary Rooney Donates Historic Scraper for Display

A significant addition to the machinery display at Twizel has been made with the donation of a Terex S24 scraper by philanthropist and director of the Rooney Group, Gary Rooney. This scraper joins a collection showcasing the earthmoving equipment used during the Upper Waitaki Power Development, a project pivotal in linking Lakes Tekapo, Pukaki, and Ohau.

The Terex S24, alongside other essential units such as the Caterpillar 631 and International 295, played a critical role in excavation and material placement. These machines were instrumental in forming canals connecting various hydroelectric sites, including the Pukaki High Dam and the powerhouse sites of Tekapo B and Ohau A, B, and C. Last month, the Rooney Group transported the S24 to Temuka for restoration, where it underwent sandblasting and painting before being placed on display.

Heritage Group convener Rick Ramsay expressed excitement about the addition, stating, “There are a lot of operators who will fondly recall the distinctive roar of these machines, and to again see one in the Mackenzie Basin on display is a big addition.” He acknowledged the generosity of Rooney not only in donating the machine but also in facilitating its transport.

The Terex S24 scraper is powered by a V12 General Motors two-stroke diesel engine, paired with an Allison CLBT-5865 six-speed powershift transmission, allowing for a top speed of 50 kph. This transmission features a hydraulic retarder that assists with braking. The bowl capacity is notable, with an 18 cubic meter struck or 24 cubic meter heaped capacity.

Despite its impressive specifications, including over 400 horsepower and a differential lock to minimize wheel spin, the S24 scrapers were typically push-loaded by bulldozers on the Upper Waitaki project. This was due to the compact nature of the glacial moraine deposits that comprised much of the earthworks involved in the development.

Clyde Engineering sold a total of 32 S24 scrapers in New Zealand, primarily for use in hydro schemes. Noteworthy fleet operators included Higgins Earthmoving, Earthmovers Waikato, McBreen-Jenkins, Burnetts Motors, and Doug Hood Ltd. Rooney acquired the construction arm of Doug Hood Ltd in approximately 1998, which included this particular model of scraper.

The rugged construction and ease of maintenance of the S24 allowed many units to be rebuilt and continue operational use in various projects even today. Some scrapers were repurposed as “dump trucks,” with modifications allowing for efficient loading by diggers and smooth material distribution, providing a level of compaction through their wheels.

The unit donated to the Twizel display is among three that the Rooney Group purchased from the North Island for use on the company’s Rangitata South irrigation Scheme, a private initiative that cost over $130 million. These machines were exclusively used on this project and remained stored at the company’s depot in Ashburton when not in operation.

This donation not only preserves a piece of history but also serves as a reminder of the significant engineering efforts that shaped New Zealand’s energy landscape.