With roaring engines, gleaming machinery, and country hospitality in full swing, this year’s rally was one of the biggest and best to date.
“The weekend was magic,” said event organiser and participant Gail Hibbert.
“It was one of the best crowds we’ve ever had, and we had some great exhibitors.”
From the early morning vehicle trek to the thrilling twilight tractor pull, the weekend was packed with non-stop action.
Visitors were treated to dynamic demonstrations of the Bucyrus Dragline and Blackstone Engine, along with displays of rare and remarkable vehicles, engines, memorabilia, and machinery.
The rally’s heart lies in its passionate exhibitors, and this year’s Display Awards showcased the very best.
Thomas Munn took home Best Feature Tractor for his Chamberlain C670, while Paul Connell was awarded Best Feature Engine.
Andrew Crotty earned Best Feature Truck, and the Wagga Wagga Historic Engine Club was recognised with Best Overall Exhibit.
Special recognition went to Gail Hibbert, who received the Brian Ramage 2025 Memorial Award, and the Perpetual Award from RVMC Inc.
Other standout winners included Ian Payne (Best Tractor – JD 7520), Dave Hawkins (Best Engine – Roseberry Engine), and David Willis (Best Truck – Mack R600).
Daniel Whitred impressed with his Citroën in the Vintage Car category, while Dennis Notle’s 1967 Mustang won Classic Car.
John Scott’s 1953 AJS motorcycle earned top honours, and Patrick Bailey’s collection of assorted mowers won Best Memorabilia.
John Little was recognised for his Lighting Plant, and Andrew Jackson received both Best Stationary Engine and Exhibit of Historical Significance.
The tractor pull was a crowd favourite, with horsepower and grit on full display across all categories.
Richard Hill triumphed in the 21–25HP class, while Greg Anderson dominated both the 26–30HP and 61–70HP categories.
Sam Sultana (31–35HP), David Custance (36–40HP), Chris Bentley (41–50HP), Geoff Heinjus (51–55HP), Damian Brooks (56–60HP), David Torresan (71–90HP), and Neil Penfold (91–100HP) each claimed victory in their respective divisions.
David Willis took top honours in the Over 100HP category, and Andrew Jackson won the Over 25HP Track class.
Bruce Fallon was awarded the Jeff Gooda 2025 Memorial Award, along with the Perpetual Award from RVAC Inc.
Long-time member, and one of the club’s founders, Merna Payne, was presented with a Certificate of Life Membership, whose years of dedication and passion have left an invaluable mark on the club and community.
“Merna has supported as a sponsor and volunteer since the inaugural rally, she’s worked tirelessly, and it’s a well-deserved reward,” Ms Hibbert said.
