David Hankin: The Visionary Behind Hankin Pinballs
In 1978, David Hankin launched Hankin Pinball with a bold vision of producing high-quality pinball machines that would stand out in both the Australian and international markets. He brought together a team of skilled engineers, designers, and artists. As the founder, David Hankin was instrumental in creating some of the most iconic Australian-made pinball machines, leaving a lasting legacy in the world. His vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to quality helped establish Hankin Pinball as a significant player in the global pinball market, even if only for a brief period.
Meeting David Hankin
We had the pleasure of meeting David Hankin over the years, where he has shared invaluable insights into the Hankin story. He clarified that contrary to popular belief, only five Hankin pinball machines were ever produced, with much lower production numbers than previously reported. The five titles —Orbit 1, FJ Holden, Dennis Lillee’s Howzat, Shark and Empire Strikes Back—had a combined production total of approximately 1,300 units. David also debunked the myth of Hankin producing conversion kits, specifically for the 1978 titles Dark Rider and Liquid Lightning, which not his.
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Hankin pinballs are more than just machines — they are a genuine part of Australian history. These iconic games have been recognised as Australian heritage, with one of our sets acquired by the National Film and Sound Archive. Another set has been acquired by Past Times in Ohio, USA, where it is now on permanent display for pinball enthusiasts to enjoy.
We also hold our own private set, which will never be offered for sale.
In fact, part of our mission is to assemble another complete set to one day be placed in a museum in Europe or the UK, continuing to promote Australian-made pinball to the world.
From time to time, we do make selected machines available — but only to serious collectors who want to become part of the Aussie Hankin story.
Every Hankin machine we offer has been fully restored to a very high standard. They have been professionally stencilled and fitted with new rubbers, LEDs, flicker kits, new plastics where required, along with new glass and legs. Each machine also comes with its own unique topper, pincup shooter rod, and pinmat.
David Hankin has personally viewed these machines in our collection and said: “They look as good as when they came out of the factory.”
These are not just pinballs — they are a rare opportunity to own a piece of Australian pinball heritage.
Price on application only. Serious collectors only.
Their first machine, Orbit1, released in 1978 and production run of 
200, holds sentimental value as it shares its name with the Hankin Amusement Centres—a tribute to Alec Hankin’s legacy. Collectors with an interest in space themed titles have tried seeking out this machine to complement their collection. Orbit1 features a classic space theme with vibrant artwork and mechanical sounds.
Also in 1978, FJ Holden followed, with a production run of 200. The pinball resonated deeply with Australians, featuring the iconic FJ Holden car, a symbol of national pride and is often featured in movies, music and vintage car collections. The pinball even played the beloved Aussie anthem "Come on Aussie, come on," a song that still reverberates at sporting events today.
Dennis Lillee’s Howzat, released in 1980 and a production run of 350. Named after the legendary Australian fast bowler Dennis Lillee. This was the first wide body game made by Hankin. When we asked David the background of Howzat, he said that his Accountant was also the Accountant for Dennis Lillie and that is how they met and discussed the concept. Dennis was eager for the pinball to be made and in return David gave him one of the first ones off the production line.
The Shark pinball machine, also released in 1980 had a production run of 200. It is a classic wide-body The "Shark" pinball machine is a sought-after collector's item, celebrated for its unique theme and solid build quality. When we asked David the background, he simply said that Sharks are a part of Australia's cultural identity, symbolizing the wild and untamed nature of its oceans.
Empire Strikes Back, released in 1980 and a production run of 350. This is the very first licensed Star Wars pinball game ever made. The licensing was arranged directly by David Hankin, who personally reached out to George Lucas. who agreed to the licensing deal.The original Flyer has Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) inspecting the pinball machine.
