A LONG-RUNNING Easter tradition fired on all cylinders in Quambatook on Saturday.
The 41st running of the town’s tractor pull – which now acts as the Australian Tractor Pull Championships – ensured Quambatook again earned its mantle as the home of tractor pulling.
Engines screamed and tyres churned up dirt as heavily modified tractors fought against the laws of nature in search of the elusive full pull.
A feast for the eyes and ears, spectators were brought to the edge of their seats as the action heated up.
Competitors travelled from across the country to take part in the prestigious event, which captures the attention of the nation.
The vintage classes began at 1.30pm, while the high-powered classes ran late into the evening.
The farm tractor perpetual trophies were keenly watched, with tractor pull stalwart, Owen Parker again taking out the four-wheel-drive trophy.
The modified machines competed across several classes, including the John Parker Memorial Trophy 4.2 tonne class, which went to the Murray Muncher, while Sudden Impact took out the Red Steer event.
The Modified Lawn Mower class ran again, giving youngsters the opportunity to learn the basics of the sport aboard ride-on mowers fitted with roll cages.
The tractor pull also featured market stalls and carnival rides, while food was provided by the Cooperating Church, Lions Club and Amity Club.
Quambatook Tractor Pull Association president, Tim Betson praised the Quambatook community and many supporters from further afield for pulling together to make the event happen.
“We have a great committee and we’re very lucky that the community is so supportive because there is a lot of work involved,” he said.
“The crowd was average to good, so we’re pleased with that aspect of the event.”
Betson said the standard of competition was as high as ever, with the sport of tractor pulling remaining vibrant.
“We had really good numbers of tractors and the competition was very strong,” he said.
“All sorts of people are involved in tractor pulling; it’s not just a sport for farmers or mechanics or truck drivers.”
