Support has been secured for the inaugural Pally Pullers event next year, with committee members Les Rigby, Robert Read, Chris Read, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Michael Rigby, President Chris McLachlan and Claude Johnson.
Friday, 17 September 2021
NORTHERN Tablelands MP Adam Marshall has helped dig the Moree Plains’ first tractor pull competition out of the COVID-19 bog, by announcing a $10,000 State government grant to promote the rescheduled Pally Pullers event in 2022.
Mr Marshall said the grant would give the Pally Pullers extra grunt after they were forced to postpone this year due to COVID-19 restrictions and the Queensland border closure.
“Like most community events in 2021, the Pally Pullers were not immune to the fallout of COVID-19 restrictions,” Mr Marshall said.
“Finding sponsorships for a new event can be difficult. This grant will take financial pressure off the committee and allow it to focus on driving the event to success.
“Funds will be spent hiring safety equipment, covering the event’s insurance, ground and first aid hire and advertising.
“It will also allow the committee to establish itself for future tractor pulls by purchasing shade tents and barbecues.
“Tourism will be pivotal in helping to sow the seeds of prosperity and reinvigorate local businesses which have struggled as a result of the lockdown.
“Despite the difficulties, it’s outstanding to see communities coming up with innovative events to entice new visitors. I have no doubt the tractor pull will be a huge success.”
Pally Pullers Committee President Chris McLachlan said the event was born out the Pallamallawa community’s passion for old tractors.
“Pally is well known for its broad acre farming, and a few of us thought a tractor pull would be a great way to encourage visitors to town and highlight all we have,” Mr McLachlan said.
“Unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic forced the postponement of our inaugural event this year, with restrictions preventing enthusiasts both locally and interstate from travelling.
“We are hopeful of rescheduling for September 2022. Timing is key for this part of the world because we need to work around grain harvest between October and December, cotton picking March to May and wheat sowing April to July.
“With a passion for tractors, I personally can’t wait to get the event up and running. I think it will give farmers and towns people alike a fantastic social outlet to catch up, celebrate the season and promote one of our key messages of ARE YOU OK.
“Our committee thanks Adam for his support in getting this grant for us.”