THERE was a convoy of a different kind on the back roads between Dungowan and Nundle.
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Machine enthusiasts from around the region, and the nation, came together to show off their vintage rigs and put the old tractors through their paces.
The tractor trek to Nundle kicked off proceedings for this weekend’s Dungowan Village Fair and Motor Show.
Organiser, Ron Haling, said the event has gone from strength to strength since its inception in recent years, with the 2017 edition drawing visitor from southern QLD and the Central West.
Mr Haling said the seeds of his passion for vintage machinery were sown spending days on his uncle’s Dungowan farm many years ago.
Since those days, Mr Haling said he has acquired Case and International Farmall tractors he remembers driving on his uncle’s farm.
While it’s a slow and meandering trek between villages, with some tractors maxing-out at 18km per hour, Mr Haling said passing motorists were often thrilled to see the old tractors in action.
“People are very enthusiastic about the tractors,” he said.
“Some will only be going 15 or 18km per hour, but we’re mostly on back roads.
“People who do see us get a thrill, it’s a bit of a novelty.”
What started as a family fun day for the village of Dungowan in 2011, has grown into a regional event, pooling the efforts and expertise of a number of towns.
Vintage machinery clubs from the coast, across the New England, as well as Sydney and the Hunter Valley have brought along their restored treasures for this weekend’s event.
The village fair will be officially opened on Saturday morning by Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce.
The fair will feature chainsaw carving, wood turning and tractor pulls for kids and adults.
Entry is $5 for adults and free for children at the Dungowan Recreation Ground.