Kids as Young as 10 Keep Tractor Tradition Alive

While most kids their age are mastering bike rides, Jackson Kovac, 10, and Angus McKenzie, 11, are already commanding powerful vintage tractors at competitive events in Red Cliffs, Australia.

The boys competed at the Tractor Restoration and Appreciation Club of Sunraysia's annual tractor pull, where enthusiasts test their restored machines by dragging weighted sleds along a 100-meter track. For Jackson, it was his debut moment after two years of practicing on his grandfather's tractor at home.

"It's just the joy of driving and it's just fun," Jackson explained simply, standing between the two tractors he piloted during his first competition.

Both boys are following directly in their grandfathers' tire tracks. Jackson's grandfather Ross Kovac started driving tractors at age four on the family farm and has competed in tractor pulls for three decades.

"I'm very proud. It's great to see them," Ross said, watching his grandson take the wheel of the same machines he once drove.

Angus inherited his love of vintage machinery from grandfather Alan McKenzie, who joined the club 20 years ago with his own father. After helping rebuild last year's competition tractor, Angus is now working on restoration projects of his own.

Sunny's Take

This isn't just about kids learning to drive. It's about something rarer: young people choosing to preserve a piece of living history that matters to their community.

The TRACS club has 130 members, but most are in their 70s and 80s. Without young enthusiasts like Jackson and Angus, the sport and the craftsmanship behind these vintage machines could disappear within a generation.

"When we all fizzle out, who's going to be left if the young ones don't come along?" Alan McKenzie asked. His answer is right beside him in the garage, hands covered in grease, learning skills that connect four generations.

The grandfathers aren't just teaching mechanics. They're passing down patience, problem-solving, and pride in work well done.

After two years behind the wheel, Angus knows his way around the machines so well he's rebuilding tractors himself. Jackson can't wait for next year's competition.

The machinery may be vintage, but the future of this Australian tradition is looking surprisingly young.