In Red Cliffs, a cherished annual tradition recently saw its youngest competitors yet. Ten-year-old Jackson Kovac and eleven-year-old Angus McKenzie proved themselves to be true young tractor enthusiasts. They were the youngest participants at the Tractor Restoration and Appreciation Club of Sunraysia’s (TRACS) annual tractor pull this past weekend.
This popular event brings together tractor enthusiasts. They gather to test their powerful machines. Competitors pull a weighted sled along a challenging 100-meter track.
For Jackson, this year marked his debut on the track. He eagerly awaited his turn after seeing his friend Angus compete last year. Jackson has been operating his grandfather’s tractor for around two years, practicing extensively at home with the family’s own sled. He drove two different tractors during his first competition.
Jackson’s love for driving is simple: “It’s just the joy of driving and it’s just fun,” he explained. Furthermore, competing in tractor pulls is a deeply ingrained family tradition for him. His grandfather, Ross Kovac, has participated in these events for approximately 30 years, having started driving tractors himself at the remarkably young age of four. Ross expressed immense pride, saying, “I’m very proud. It’s great to see them.”
Similarly, Angus’s passion for machinery stems from his grandfather, Alan McKenzie. “Just mucking around with my pop in his garage,” Angus recalled as his introduction to the hobby. He began by driving around the garage and assisting his grandfather with various tasks. Mr. McKenzie, a collector, initially joined a Vintage Machinery Society with his own father before becoming a TRACS member two decades ago. He stated, “I try and take a bit of credit for it.” Angus now boasts six years of driving experience and two tractor pulls, even helping rebuild last year’s competition tractor.
The generational connection has become increasingly vital for the TRACS club. The club currently boasts 130 members; however, many are in their 70s and 80s. Attracting young people is therefore seen as critical for the club’s survival.
Mr. McKenzie noted, “So it’s good to see a few young ones starting to come through the system… hopefully they can carry it on when we fade away.” Mr. Kovac agreed, emphasizing the need to encourage more children to ensure the sport’s continuation. Therefore, these young tractor enthusiasts are not just competing; they are learning directly from the generations who came before them. A new generation is confidently finding its place behind the wheel, ensuring the future of this unique rural pastime.
