A Vintage Combine Harvester’s Unusual Journey: From Austria to Moldova for a Film Project
A team of five Austrian enthusiasts is embarking on a remarkable journey – a 2,000-kilometer trek from Peuerbach, Austria, to Chisinau, Moldova, aboard a 1967 Claas Matador Gigant combine harvester. This isn’t simply a nostalgic road trip; it’s a central component of a film project, adding a layer of quirky adventure to the production. The journey, expected to take four to five weeks, highlights the enduring appeal of vintage machinery and the creative spirit of the “Kulturverein Haarausfall” (Hairfall Cultural Association), the group behind this unusual undertaking. The team’s unconventional mode of transport and vibrant customizations are already drawing attention, promising a memorable spectacle along the route.
The project centers around a modern film titled “Astra la Vista,” and the journey itself is being documented as part of the filmmaking process. The team, comprised of Ronald “Schuppe” Nelböck, Christian “Schlappi das Viech” Appelius, Sebastian “der Möter” Kogler, Alexander “Kongo Otto” Simmelbauer, and Jakob “Jäcky” Orthofer, are embracing a unique travel style. They plan to sleep *inside* the combine harvester during their travels, utilizing the “shüttler” – the area where grain is typically processed – as a makeshift sleeping berth. Adding to the eccentricity, the harvester has been painted a bright pink and adorned with large daisy flowers, earning it the nickname “Der rosarote Bertl” (The Pink Bertl). The vehicle was even blessed by Diakon Rene Schielin for a safe journey.
The Claas Matador Gigant, a significant piece of agricultural history, was first introduced in 1961 and is known for its robust construction and efficiency. According to Wikipedia, approximately 35,000 units of the Matador series were produced between 1961 and 1969. The Matador Gigant is the largest combine harvester in the Matador series, capable of harvesting up to 0.5–1.1 hectares (6,000–13,200 square yards) per hour at speeds of 2–4.5 kilometers per hour (1.2–2.8 mph). This particular model, however, is expected to travel at a more leisurely pace, with a maximum speed of around 14 kilometers per hour, depending on conditions. The harvester measures 3.5 meters high and 2.6 meters wide, necessitating detours to avoid low bridges and tunnels along the route, adding approximately 400 kilometers to the journey.
A History of Unusual Journeys
This isn’t the Kulturverein Haarausfall’s first foray into unconventional travel. The group has been organizing these unique expeditions since 1998, gaining a reputation for their audacious and often humorous adventures. Their inaugural trip involved driving a tractor with a manure spreader from Taufkirchen to St. Tropez, France, setting the stage for a series of increasingly elaborate journeys. The association’s penchant for the extraordinary is a key element of their creative projects, blending travel, performance art, and a touch of absurdity.
The route will take the team through the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary before arriving in Moldova. The journey is not without its logistical challenges. The team has even equipped the harvester with a small “Alm-Hüttenklo” (alpine hut toilet) at the rear, complete with a “city mode” and “country mode” for different situations. They anticipate potential breakdowns and police checks along the way, factors that could influence the overall duration of the trip. The engine powering this agricultural behemoth is a Deutz engine, described by the team as sounding “like a compressed air hammer with asthma” but reliably functional.
“Astra la Vista” and the Film’s Premise
The film “Astra la Vista” adds another layer of intrigue to the journey. The narrative revolves around extraterrestrials who crash-land on Earth and travel to Moldova to retrieve a spaceship. To fully embody their roles, the team members are dressing up in elaborate costumes inspired by science fiction films, including characters from “Louis and his Extra-Terrestrial Kohlrabi,” “Spaceballs,” and “The Addams Family.” One member has even adopted the persona of a “Space Viking,” serving as the captain of the “intergalactic combine harvester command.” The film is slated for screening at Star-Movie cinemas, with a grand premiere planned for November 13th in Peuerbach, featuring a performance by the Neumarkt Spielmannszug (town band).
New members, Kongo Otto and Orthofer, are undergoing an initiation process that involves shaving their heads and spending an hour in a manure pile, a testament to the association’s commitment to unconventional traditions. The group’s dedication to their projects is evident in their willingness to embrace challenges and push the boundaries of creative expression. The Kulturverein Haarausfall’s approach to filmmaking is decidedly grassroots, relying on ingenuity, collaboration, and a healthy dose of humor.
Moldova as a Filming Location and Agricultural Context
The choice of Moldova as the destination and setting for “Astra la Vista” is noteworthy. Moldova, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, has a significant agricultural sector. According to the World Bank, agriculture contributes substantially to Moldova’s GDP and employment. Moldova’s agricultural landscape is characterized by extensive vineyards, orchards, and grain fields, making it a fitting backdrop for a story involving extraterrestrials and a combine harvester. The country is also increasingly attracting international film productions, drawn by its diverse landscapes and relatively low production costs.
Claas, the German manufacturer of the Matador Gigant, remains a prominent player in the agricultural machinery industry today. Founded in 1913, Claas is known for its innovative combine harvesters, tractors, and other agricultural equipment. The Claas Group operates globally, with a strong presence in Europe, North and South America, and Asia. The enduring legacy of the Matador series, exemplified by this remarkable journey, underscores the company’s commitment to quality and durability.
The journey of the “rosarote Bertl” is more than just a film project; it’s a celebration of ingenuity, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of adventure. As the team prepares to cross borders and navigate unfamiliar terrain, their unusual expedition promises to capture the imagination of audiences and highlight the unexpected connections between agriculture, filmmaking, and the pursuit of creative expression.
The team is expected to arrive in Chisinau in approximately four to five weeks, barring any unforeseen delays. Follow their progress and learn more about the “Astra la Vista” film project on the Kulturverein Haarausfall’s social media channels (details not provided in source). We encourage readers to share their thoughts and reactions to this extraordinary journey in the comments below.