Published on Tuesday, 5 August 2025 at 10:25:00 AM
The Shire of East Pilbara has welcomed a convoy of vintage tractors to Newman as part of a national fundraising trek in support of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Children’s Hospitals around Australia.
The 9G Chamberlain Tractor Club – known for its iconic collection of Australian-made tractors from the 1950s and 60s – arrived in town today and will spend two-nights at the Shire’s Yurlu Caravan Park.
The Club, which originated in Dongara, has been undertaking charity drives across Australia, the USA and New Zealand since 2000. This year’s journey includes stops in 80 Mile Beach, Broome, Kalgoorlie and other remote communities before returning to the Mid-West.
As part of their Newman visit, drivers had access to the newly completed Yurlu Gatehouse – an extension of the Newman Visitor Centre that provides maps, travel information, and friendly advice to help guests make the most of their time in the Pilbara.
Shire President Anthony Middleton said the visit has been a great opportunity to showcase both Newman’s community spirit and the Shire’s investment in local tourism.
“These volunteers aren’t just preserving classic Aussie machinery – they’re keeping the spirit of regional generosity alive,” he said. “We’re proud to support their efforts and it’s fantastic to see them enjoying the facilities at Yurlu Caravan Park, including our new Gatehouse that’s helping travellers connect with what Newman has to offer.”
Club President George Bass said the Newman stop was a standout on their journey.
“This community knows just how important services like the RFDS are,” he said. “We’ve had great chats, lots of laughs, and the new facilities at the Park made the stopover even better.”
Locals were invited to visit the convoy, meet the drivers, and donate to the cause. The Club’s tractors – many over 65 years old – drew attention from enthusiasts, kids, and long-time outback residents alike.
For more information or to support the Club’s fundraising, visit chamberlain9g.org.au.
ENDS
Shire of East Pilbara
Phone: (08) 9175 8000
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