General News
4 February, 2026
From New York to Port, big yellow taxi is turning heads
A PIECE of iconic New York streetscape is turning heads in Port Douglas.
For those who think they may be going mad, the big yellow taxi around town is not a figment of their imagination but a new feature that has tongues wagging in both Port Douglas and Mossman.
The man behind the popular vehicle is Dave Lewkowski, from Port Douglas, who was recently in the market for a new car.
“I have been looking at buying a car for a while but wasn’t interested in anything much,” he said.
“I was out at sea when I saw this car listed and had to inquire about it, because it was so unique.
“I fell for it, got in touch with the seller and next thing I was on land and on my way to Townsville to pick it up, deposit paid.”
The model is a Checker Marathon, which were made in the United States between 1959 and 1982.
Used famously as New York taxis, the Checker Marathon was also used as government vehicles and police cars.
Mr Lewkowski’s particular model was made in 1981 and was a New York taxi for many years in its working life.
The previous owner, who imported the car from America to Townsville, created the vehicle as a ‘rat-rod’, meaning an old car which is kept to look aged and scruffy, while creating a performance vehicle underneath the bonnet.
Powered by a 5.7 litre, 350cuin Chev engine, the car has been vinyl wrapped to look old and beaten, converted to right hand drive, had power steering installed, airconditioning, white wall tyres added, plus dented hubcaps.
“She is just a head turner everywhere she goes,” Mr Lewkowski said.
“There has been so much interest in the car locally.
“The creator of this car was quite happy for her to end up in a place like Port Douglas and I think it’s a good home for her.
“It just makes everyone smile.”
Mr Lewkowski is currently open to suggestions as his new-found pride and joy has yet to be given a name.
