Tractor heads off to Vanuatu

A Massey Ferguson tractor is about to be sent off on an extraordinary journey as it is freighted from Eltham to Gaua, Vanuatu.

The tractor has been restored by Eltham farmer Malcolm Pease who has been working closely with a group of men from Gaua while they are in the country as part of the New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Workers Scheme.

Malcolm was approached by the group to help source them a tractor to take home to their island commuity to help with daily life. "There are very few vehicles on the island and the men needed something sturdy to transport their copra." Copra is the island's main export, made from the meat of a coconut, and with very few vehicles on the island it can be difficult to transport it to the port for sale.

"I have worked with groups from the scheme for many years now," Malcolm says, "helping them source tractors and other vehicles to take home."

He prepared the group a budget of how much it would cost to find, restore and freight a tractor.

"Last year they saved up the cost of the tractor and by next July they will be able to cover the cost of the restoration."

Malcolm adds that meeting the cost of the project has been made helped by donations from local businesses. "We have had lots of businesses offer us discounted rates for parts and services and several offers of sponsorship from transport companies."

Markie Freshley, from Gaua, has been helping Malcolm with the restoration, which included restoring all the mud guards and attaching carrier frames to the body. Once completed, the tractor should be able to transport one tonne of copra.

Malcolm worked as a student teacher in Vanuatu many years ago and got involved helping out the locals with restoring their vehicles "so it is nice that I can continue to help from home".

Malcolm would like to thank Fieldtorque Taranaki, Stratford Engineering, Hotter Engineering, Central Tyres and Automotive, Etham Sandblasting and Taranaki Galvanizers for their support.

If anyone else would like to make a donation to help with the freight cost phone Malcolm (06) 764 8262.