DUDLEY

The LA Case tractor sitting opposite the front driveway of “Privett”is a 1930s model, purchased secondhand. 

In its day, it was considered easy to maintain and fit for purpose. A second LA Case tractor was later acquired to serve as a backup for parts and additional work.

These tractors were among the early powered farming equipment, replacing horses. At the time, a severe rabbit plague was affecting the area, and the tractors were used to rip the warrens to help control their numbers. However, one of the tractors became severely bogged and overheated in a warren. As a result, the decision was made to upgrade to a newer model. The damaged tractor was stripped of all usable parts, which were then used to rebuild the remaining tractor before it was sold further up the Wheatbelt.

What you see sitting on the dam bank today is the remaining shell of that history.

The name Dudley belonged to Keith House's grandfather, who was instrumental in building the property during that period. Today, his great-great-grandchildren are growing up and enjoying life on the farm.

We hope you enjoy the tractors on our dam banks. The tractor at the entrance dam originally belonged to the Richardson family, with whom we share family ties through my great-grandmother.

A special thank you to the local Men’s Shed for restoring Dudley and placing the tractor on the bank.