March 5, 2019
An antique Sunshine Header Harvester dating back to the turn of last century will be going up for auction near Goondiwindi on Wednesday.
The auction will mark the end of an era for the Norman family, which has farmed in the area for more than 160 years.
The antique harvester will be available for public purchase, but if a registered charity or community group places the winning bid, they will receive the item for free.
“We hope this item goes to someone in the local area, whether that is a bidder or a local registered charity or museum,” a family representative said.
“It will be a great opportunity to keep local history in the community and tell stories of the original upbringings of the area.
“This harvester gained the reputation as the first successful combine harvester in Australia, so who knows what it could sell for if there are a few keen bidders interested in local farming history.”
The metal constructed chain-and-cog system header was originally invented by Hugh Victor McKay.
The company went on to become the largest factory in the southern hemisphere in its early stages of development.
The harvester is part of a large farming auction clearance with more than 1000 lots.
Most lots do not have reserves, and online bidding is now open.
Some of the other equipment in the auction includes crawler tractors, old trucks, planters, ploughs, grader boards and other farming implements.
Items can also be seen online
