STRONG community and industry support for the 2017 Fennell Forestry Truck Pull Challenge has led to an event record donation of more than $30,000 for children’s charity Variety.
The fifth annual event was held at the Glenburnie Saleyards on Saturday, with hundreds of people turning out to take in the action.
Seven six-person teams took part, using only their strength and endurance to roll the 23 tonne Kenworth B-Double 100 metres to the finish line.
While the Fennell Forestry team took home the cup, charity was once again the real winner with $31,100 secured for Variety.
Fennell Forestry managing director Wendy Fennell said she was continually overwhelmed by the generosity of the local community and her trucking and forest industry peers.
“The truck pull event has grown a real profile since it began as a bit of fun in 2013,” Ms Fennell said.
“We have created a free community event which brings together industry representatives for a day of friendly rivalry.
“We have also raised more than $90,000 for children’s charity in the last five years – that’s something our organising team is extremely proud of.”
Adding extra forestry-themed excitement to the day, Adelaide-based Australian Strongmen and Strength Syndicate members Jordan Steffens and Steph Davies showcased formidable strength in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Steph, who is in training for Commonwealth Games selection, single-handedly pulled an 11-tonne prime mover while Jordan made a seemingly easy meal of the 23 tonne B-Double.
A lengthy list of generous local sponsors threw their support behind the truck pull.
