The 6th Annual Harvest Day on Sunday 7th August, celebrated the 80th Anniversary of the Ferguson Brown tractor, the first of the Ferguson range, and there were many example of that line both working and displayed at the event which was held in glorious sunshine.
The official opening was performed by Andrew Pollocks, editor of the Irish Vintage Scene magazine.
Following the opening Mick Forde from ‘The Farm’ Grenagh gave a fascinating presentation of the history of Harry Ferguson from the centre of the Ferguson display.
Then it was on to the action. Vintage combines, the oldest being a 1949 Massey Harris through to the trailed combines and on to the self propelled models took to the field.
For the next two hours the crowds soaked up the sights and sounds of the vintage harvesters moving through the corn. JJ Hayes was on the speaker describing each model as it carried out its task.
Throughout the day old time harvesting was displayed with binders, stooking and steam threshing. The catering side was busy with Barracuda, Clonakilty Blackpudding and the club hospitality tent busy all day satisfying the crowds.
As usual for the De Courcey event the days work finished with a grand finale of all Harvesters cutting in precise formation.
The event rounded off with refreshments, music and dance.
One of the final events was the Harvest Day raffle, with the winners being:
1st Michael O’Sullivan, Kilgobblin – Trip for two to London
2nd John O’Brien, Farrangalway, Kinsale – Two Nights Accommodation in Killarney
3rd Nattie Downing, Old Head – Golf 4-Ball at Kinsale Golf Club
4th Martin Miller, Bandon – Football signed by Roy Keane
5th Teddy McCarthy, Bantry – Meal for two at the Speckled Door, Old Head
This years event was in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and local groups.
De Courcey Classic & Vintage Club Classic and Vintage Club would like to thank Paddy and Ann McCarthy for the great site and everyone that supported the event.
