Tractors stampede through region

THE Great Snowy River Tractor Stampede once again passed through the local region in early January, with the event’s Garry Stephenson giving the following report -

“Eighteen tractors and drivers with their support crew left Candelo on January 2 for five days of trekking through the beautiful Monaro and Snowy Mountains, camping out each night under the stars.

The first night on the trek was spent at Bombala, then onto Craigie, Bonang, Tubbut and then Deddick Springs for the second night’s camp, with a beaut meal provided by the local ladies at Tom Ventry’s property.

There was an early start to day three, with a short trek down to the historical McKillops Bridge over the mighty Snowy River, providing photo opportunities for all. 

Then the steep climb out to the high country plains for a short distance, before going back onto another steep narrow road leading to the Pinch River, with the temperature reaching a hot 44 degrees. 

The cool Pinch River was calling and everyone had a well earned swim and cool down. 

A nice cool morning greeted the trekkers for day four, with a long climb up to Wallis Cragie lookout for another photo shoot, then onto Jindabyne for lunch beside the lake.

The next town was Dalgety after another very hot drive, when again the old Snowy River came to our rescue with its cool cool water. The Buckley’s Crossing Hotel was the venue for the Stampede’s presentation night, with everyone really enjoying the surrounds and the company.  

Day five was Sunday morning, and the 18 tractors, weary drivers and back up crew were itching to get home via Bibbenluke, Cathcart, down Tantawanglo Mountain and back into Candelo, arriving safe and sound around 3pm. 

This very successful 2013 Great Snowy River Tractor Stampede was organised by the Bega and District Historical Machinery Club, with 11 of the 18 registrations coming from Victoria, Southern and Northern NSW.”