Includes bibliography (p. 132)

Introduction -- Mechanisation in farming -- Steam to internal combustion -- Early tractors in Australia 1900-1930 -- Australian tractor manufacturers -- Tractor trials and field days -- Tractor balance and tractor pulling -- Crawler tractors -- Tractors in Australia 1930-1960s.

"When farmers, horticulturalists and contractors began the change from horses to horsepower in Australia, the gates opened for a large number of tractors and associated machinery to be imported from various countries around the world, the majority of these originating in Europe and North America. Such were the numbers it became apparent that tractors could well be made in Australia to satisfy demand. From the earliest steam models anchored either side of the paddock, many of which were developed in England, to those of today using diesel and other petroleum products, manufacturers have sought to improve on design and efficiency, suiting the changing needs within our primary industries. These endeavours saw changes from steel wheels to pneumatic tyres and then belt pulleys and power take-off. This book encapsulates many of the early makes and models of tractors which have served in rural areas across Australia, bringing them to life with colourful photographs, interesting specifications and anecdotal accounts of their use. Examples of early advertisements add interest to the tractor story whilst using words and illustrations of a bye-gone era. A fascination with tractors is evident within our community today. Small children can only wonder how these unique machines worked; older people can reflect on their use and marvel at the many changes and improvements having been made over the years." -- book cover.