Tractor enthusiasts to converge

Aussie grunt versus Italian stallion. MAVEC members Stephen O'Connor, Graham Mason and John Blake are looking forward to seeing the Chamberlain Super 90 pitted against the Fiat 80R.

If travelling all the way to Carnamah in WA’s midwest to see the newly unveiled ‘world’s biggest tractor’ is not an option, you can get your tractor-fix at the Mount Alexander Vintage Engine Club Tractor Pull this Sunday.


The day will see vintage and classic tractor enthusiasts from across the state converge on the club’s Muckleford headquarters at the David Bennett Reserve alongside the Muckleford Railway Station in Walmer Road.


And while they may not tower as high as the 11.5 metre statue of the replica Chamberlain 40K in the west, there will be more than 30 beasts ranging from the 1940s to 1976 set to battle it out in the 2024 competition.


MAVEC president Stephen O’Connor said the club enjoyed attending a wide array of tractor pulls, including the recent Dunolly and Lancefield events, and looked forward to welcoming participants from clubs across the state.


Among the tractors to be featured will be an Australian-built Chamberlain Super 90 owned by Muckleford farmer Andrew Chapman and an Italian built Fiat 80R, which belongs to MAVEC member and Tractor Pull coordinator John Blake.


“There is always a stiff competition between the Australian made and international models and this Aussie mauler and John’s Italian stallion are pretty closely matched in power and grunt,” O’Connor said.

Tractor Pull coordinator John Blake said he copped a bit of flack about his import.


“The fellas like to stir me but it’s always been reliable and has blown away the competition on numerous occasions,” he said.


MAVEC secretary Graham Mason said the day would also include stationary engine displays, a range of food vans and various stalls and a chance to view the club’s renowned twin engine Chamberlain tractor ‘The Lizard’ – a hybrid of two different models that was built by local farmer Morrie Oxley back in the early 1980s.


“We usually have a few of our friends from the local car clubs make an appearance with their magnificent machines too,” Graham said.


There will be two tracks and two sled classes for large and small tractors. This year some of the club’s younger members will also be trying their hand at the sport for the first time.


“It will be fantastic to see some of the next generation stepping up to try their luck,” Stephen said.


There will also be a raffle with some fantastic prizes up for grabs thanks to the support of local businesses.

The tractor pull competition will kick off at 10am and run until approximately 3pm. Entry is just $5 for adults and with children Under 15 free.


“It is sure to be a great day out for the whole family and we invite the community to come along and catch the vintage tractors in action,” Stephen said.


To enter your tractor, contact John on 0417 504 507 or Col on 0409 149 376 for more details.