ORGANISERS are pulling together final preparations for a Quambatook Easter tradition.
The engines roar, the smoke rises and action heats up as the town hosts its 47th annual Australian Tractor Pull Championships on Easter Saturday (April 19).
Quambatook Tractor Pull Association president Tim Betson said the “brute force” of these modified tractors pulling great weights down the 100m track “is a sight you need to see with your own eyes”.
“The machines ranging from the famous 502ci Chev blown fuel injected Quamby Quaker to super mini modified The General, containing LS2 powerglide and Ford 9 diff and the open mini modified Who Cares with its blown alcohol 350 Chev power,” Mr Betson said.
Quambatook is home to Australia’s first permanent purpose-built tractor pulling complex featuring big and mini sled tracks side by side.
Mr Betson said a range of modified and vintage tractors will be competing and exerting their power.
“The small rural town is always ready to welcome you back for a bigger and better event every year,” he said.
“The complex is renowned as a great track for competitors and spectators alike.
“Bring along a rug or chair to enhance your day’s enjoyment. A designated dry area guarantees your family a safe and relaxing day out.”
The program will begin at 1pm and finish under lights at 10pm.
The pulling begins with the vintage tractors at 1pm.
Anyone interested in bringing their vintage tractor to enter the vintage tractor pull should call Doug on 0427 346 634.
At 3pm, the spectacular modified tractors and trucks hit the tracks.
An evening tea break will see the pit gates open to the public which will allow enthusiasts the opportunity to share the passion with the pulling teams.
The Voice Australia contestant and local farmer Elias Lanyon will fill the air with tunes.
Paul Bennet Airshows will amaze the crowd with an aerobatics display.
The action will then continue under lights.
Mr Betson said tractor pulling at night was a “spectacle to be seen”, with the open modified Sledgehammer with its 14LT V8 Scania motor.
“Those exhaust pipes glowing red at night and the flames from the top are worth seeing in person,” he said.
Off track, there will be a variety of market stalls, children’s entertainment and food and drink vendors.
The vendors are all ran by local Quambatook committees, including Quambatook Lions Club, Quambatook Amity, Quambatook Cooperating Church and Quambatook Development Association.
“Please support these vendors as all money goes back into the town of Quambatook, like all profit the tractor pull makes each year,” Mr Betson said.
“For those with diesel in their veins, have a wander through the modern fleet of trucks on display for the truck show.
“This year we are introducing a classic car display.”
Mr Betson said anyone interested in entering in the truck and car show and shine, should call Marcus on 0412 263 774.
For the visitors who prefer machinery of yesteryear, you can explore the history of farming as harvest and ploughing equipment throughout the decades will be on show.
Meander down memory lane with an extensive display of heritage machinery courtesy of Quambatook Heritage Working Machinery Association.
Patrons are advised no glass containers allowed, no pets, no BYO alcohol and no EFTPOS available.
Tickets are available at the gate or online at www.ticketebo.com.au/QTPA.
