Pulling power

Jessica Foster, from Pakenham, protects her ears from the loud tractors. 92697

TOORADIN’s loud and proud Tractor Pull and Truck Show pulled in a huge crowd on Saturday.
About 5000 people turned out to Rutter Reserve to enjoy all the thrills and spills of the annual event.
Organiser Peter McGrath said the event went fantastic.
“There were lots of trucks, lots tractors and lots of people,” he said.
“We advertise it as family event, so we get people of all ages from families to groups of blokes.
“I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as did.”
Three local drivers were involved in the tractor pull events, with Craig Marsh, from Tooradin, winning his category.
As well the feature tractor pulling, the event also included a truck show, helicopters rides and children’s activities.
Profits from the event go back into the community, but final fundraising figures are not yet known.
The event wasn’t without mishap though, after a motorbike rider was taken to Dandenong Hospital after he lost control of his bike during a demonstration to promote the upcoming Tooradin Dirt Drags event.
The 32-year-old New South Wales rider came of his bike in front of the crowd.
“He went to hospital as a cautionary measure, but he was OK,” Mr McGrath said.
“He had bruised ribs and a sore head.
“Luckily he had all the proper safety harnesses on and the bike cut off as it should when something like that happens.”