A procession of vintage tractors, cars and motorbikes stopped traffic in Swan Hill on Saturday morning. The procession kicked off the annual Mallee Steam, Oil and Machinery Club’s Vintage Rally and Tractor Pull.
The parade of vintage machines commenced at St Mary’s Church and rolled down Campbell Street, before heading to the main event at Woorinen South Recreation Reserve.
Held over two days, the event was a trip down memory lane for many and featured an array of vintage engines, memorabilia, vehicle displays, a machinery auction and tractor pull.
Mallee Steam, Oil and Machinery Club president John Nix said event was a huge success for the club.
“All and all, it was another great event for people to enjoy on the weekend,” Mr Nix said.
“The parade was fantastic and we had a very good display of engines and lots of motorbikes, cars and tractors on display for people to enjoy.
“The main tractor pull on Sunday went off without a hitch.”
Tractors built before 1965 competed in the tractor pull in different horse power categories.
Mr Nix said a number of community groups contributed to the success of the event.
The Woorinen District Progress Association assisted at the gate, while the Swan Hill Lions Club hosted a barbecue.
The Woorinen CFA also volunteered their time.
“They had their fire truck there filling up the water drums on the machines,” Mr Nix said.
Now in its 12th year, Mr Nix said this year’s event attracted more visitors than previous years.
“There was definitely a bigger crowd than last year,” he said.
“Years ago we had twice as many people, but we still get a lot of interest.
“Some visitors travelled from as far as Ivanhoe in NSW for the weekend. There’s always a few die-hard people who follow these tractor pull events around the country.”
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