The duck, brainchild of Sydney businessman and kitchen designer Brian Patterson, the Aussie Duck, looks like a D-day landing craft and drives like a bus. After rigorous testing by engineers and detailed examination by dozens of bureaucrats, the Aussie Duck has approval to take 50 passengers on an 80-minute drive and dive tour of the city. Large outrigger-style pontoons descend from the roof of the vehicle as it enters the harbor, giving it buoyancy and stability. Being Australian-made, it also features a large beer cooler. Engineer Craig Williams, who designed the craft, now has an eye on the export market.
International interest is already high.
More than a dozen journalists and TV crews from China to England covered the launch of the craft in a two-day event largely ignored by local media. The Age Company Ltd 1999. Any unauthorised use, copying or mirroring is prohibited.