mmg.com.au

The Cobram-Barooga Lawnmower Races and Big Boys Toys has been declared a success with around 400 people through the gates on Saturday.

There were 21 lawn mower racers from across NSW and Victoria, with plenty of action at the specially designed track.

Organisers Shayne McIntyre and Stuart Eliott said they were thrilled with the weekend

‘‘We moved the event out to Cobram Harness Racing Club and the venue was great,’’ Mr McIntyre said.

‘‘We couldn’t have asked for better facilities and the track committee and club were very accommodating.’’

Mr Eliott said a number of racers commented on the track, which held up well despite recent wet weather.

‘‘The track was a lot faster and wider. It was a bit muddy on one of the corners, so we modified it for safety reasons.

‘‘All in all, it went well, and our local racers did well too.’’

Racers Ben Brentnall, Callum Nichol, John Lean, Marc Retallack and Luke Rawson performed well in their respective classes, although some mowers were affected by mechanical problems.

The lawn mower races also included a range of kids’ activities and a show and shine display.

‘‘Most of the people through the gates were locals, which was great,’’ Mr McIntyre said.

‘‘We did get a few phone calls from people saying they couldn’t get through because of the floods, but we’re looking forward to seeing them at next year’s event.’’

Mr Eliott claimed race honours in the 250cc class and beat Berrigan rival Gavin Berry in the all-in event.

‘‘Gavin has won the all-in race two years in a row, so it was good to beat him ... he was a very fast mower,’’ Mr Eliott said.

The organisers would like to thank major sponsors, including Ink Me Tattoo and Piercing, Murray River Spares and Repairs, Clarke’s Paint and Panel, Eliott’s Small Engines, Poolside Cobram, Mitre 10, Pat Barrett’s Tyre Service, Central Murray Credit Union, Betta Electrical, Bikes, Buggies and Marine, A1 Engineering, The Bottom Pub, AusElec, D’Vine Ideas, Cobram Outdoor and Disposals, Classic Rock 102.5FM, Cobram Home Hardware, Millers Mowers and Motorcycles, and minor sponsors and donors.