New tractor for community volunteers at Woodenbong

A new four-wheel drive tractor and mulcher were delivered to Woodenbong on Thursday (27 August) much to the delight of the community volunteers who maintain the town’s showground, common area and public spaces.

Funded under the Federal and State Government’s Bushfire Grants Kyogle Council received after last year’s horrific bushfires, the tractor replaces an old ride-on mower which was previously used to keep Woodenbong looking spic and span.

Kyogle Council Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland described the new tractor as a blessing for the Woodenbong community.

“I am delighted that the Woodenbong community got this tractor,” she said.

“It is well deserved and a smart decision by Council to support local community organisations who do so much for their community.

“The tractor will make life much easier for the volunteers who will be able to finish jobs in half the time.

“I’d also like to thank Kevin Hogan, our Federal MP, who made representations to have Kyogle Council included in the Bushfire Recovery Program which enabled us to fund projects like this one.”

Cr Lindsay Passfield said the new tractor would  strengthen Woodenbong’s already robust volunteer base and enhance efficiency.

Christine Reid, of the Woodenbong Showground Trust, said the tractor would be put to good use.

“The Woodenbong common and the showgrounds have never looked so good and we’re prepared and ready to get going on all of our events as soon as the Covid restrictions are eased,” she said.

Lynne Parker, who is also a member of the Showground Trust, was over the moon that after years of chasing funding for a tractor, it had finally become a reality.

“We’re ecstatic that we got this tractor which will be a big asset to the community and the various local organisations,” she said.

“The time it takes to prepare the grounds for events will be more than halved.”

The tractor was delivered by tractor dealer and fifth generation Woodenbong local Trent Martin.

Mr Martin said the tractor was the heaviest, and biggest engine capacity in its class on the market.

“I think it will perform beyond expectations,” he said.

The mulcher originally ordered with the tractor was nixed because the delivery time was far too long with Covid restrictions in place. Mr Martin replaced that mulcher with a higher quality mulcher at no extra cost.

Kevin Hogan thanked Kyogle Council for the community consultation they have done in allocating the bushfire grant money.