PRESS RELEASE
29 April 2004

On Easter Sunday, 11th April 2004, 1897 tractors ploughed their way into the history books by breaking the World Record for the maximum number of tractors ploughing in one field at one time. This well organised event in Cootamundra once again showed the patriotism of Australians. They responded in their thousands to support this event.

Of particular interest was the fact that three rare tractors were shipped all the way from South Africa to participate in the event. Sandstone Estates (Pty) Ltd, who held the first World Record attempt in 1999, and who broke the record again in 2002, sent a 1909 Emerson Brantingham Big 4-20, a GO (General Ordnance) tractor dated 1917, and a 1953 John Deere 60 Hi-Crop. There were no other examples of these three makes on the field and the Australians responded warmly to this gesture from South Africa.
A special feature on all World Record attempts will shortly appear on the Sandstone Estates web site (www.sandstone.co.za).

World Record attempts in South Africa, Ireland, Britain and Australia have lifted the profile of vintage tractors dramatically across the world and all sides now gather to watch these interesting events. Each one has a much better atmosphere, and for the thousands of participants and spectators there are many magical moments that will never be forgotten. In addition international cooperation is growing rapidly as different countries send machines across the world to participate in events of this type. No doubt one of the countries that has already participated or perhaps a new entrant will announce their desire to host an international vintage tractor working event of this sort which will further enhance the image of vintage tractors within the broader preservation scene.