Versalite 12v fluoro tube problem

I have a Versalite 12volt fluoro light which has given great service. However the fluoro tube gradually blackened at the base and eventually stopped working. It's been very difficult to find the correct replacement tube although I bought one which looked identical at Bunnings. However it used to flicker for up to a minute before it turned on properly and shortly afterwards, it too stopped working.

Eventually I phoned Burn-Brite, the manufacturers and asked their advice. They were extremely helpful and courteous, advised that Osram, their tube supplier, had changed tube specs slightly and this caused the Versalite to struggle at start up. Burn-Brite are sending me a replacement tube under warranty.

I have no affiliation with Burn-Brite but good after-sales service deserves a mention. If you're having problems with your Osram fluoro tube in your Versalite, it's possibly due to a defective tube and worth talking to Burn-Brite.

Peter