Wedderburn Vintage Machinery Rally

Published on 23 August 2018

The wheezing and thumping of old machinery will fill the air once more when the Wedderburn Vintage Machinery Rally cranks up for this year’s event. 

Planned for the Engine Park on 8-9 September, this 28th annual rally is hosted by the Wedderburn Historical Engine and Machinery Society as part of the 2018 “Naturally Loddon” Spring Festival.

Club secretary Barry Bolwell said the group, which now boasts over 200 members, expected up to 70 exhibitors from right around Australia to take part.

“The tractor trek has proven popular over the past couple of years, but the main exhibits are stationary oil engines, vintage and veteran cars, tractors and old farm equipment going back as far as 1908,” Barry said.

“We’ll also have blacksmithing and shearing demonstrations, plus some trade and craft stalls and a patchwork quilt display.

“Machine-wise, we’re hoping to have our two original Ruston Hornsby engines running, alongside a host of smaller engines.

“This year is the 100th anniversary of the formation of the Ruston Hornsby company.”

Food and refreshments will be available and there is free on-site camping for exhibitors.

Gates open at 9am each day and adult entry costs $5 (children under 16 free). For more information, phone (03) 5494 3152 or 0433 091 920.

The “Naturally Loddon” Spring Festival comprises 14 family-friendly events spread between now and Melbourne Cup weekend.

This year’s program also includes the ever-popular Kooyoora Wildflower Show, family weekends at Terrick Terrick National Park and Little Lake Boort, nature walks, an Open Gardens day, two town festivals, stand-up paddle-boarding on the Serpentine Creek, a spring dance and Boort’s annual metal sculpture competition.