The Mystery Mini

In the world of tractor pulling, some machines are built with big budgets and bigger expectations. Others, like Mystery Mini, are built from spare parts and an idea, and still manage to have their moment on the track. What started as a quick build for a local event became a small but well-remembered part of early Aussie tractor pulling.

In the early '80s, Lucindale was preparing for its first-ever modified tractor pull. Organisers were keen to see a local machine on the track, and Brian Hicks answered the call.

Using a Ford 302 engine and a C4 transmission that were laying around the workshop, and a set of drag racing slicks with lugs vulcanised on, Mystery Mini was born.

Not too long after hitting the track, the Mini Modified tractor found its name: Jazza's Pride. It never dominated the class but held its own, with its best result being a second place at the Quambatook Tractor Pull. But like many involved in the sport, Brian wasn't in it for the trophies. He once said the best part of pulling was stopping at the Birchip Hotel on the way to Quambatook so he and the boys could grab a few "turps" for the road trip.

With a seized engine and family commitments, Jazza's Pride was parked in 1984.

Today, Jazza's Pride is still in one piece, minus the engine.

It stands as a reminder of the early days of pulling, when tractors were built with whatever you had and competing was just part of the adventure. There has been talk of restoring it with a rebuilt 302, fresh tyres, and a new coat of paint. While it would not meet today's rules to return to the track, it would make a fitting display piece and a tribute to the kind of passion that built this sport from the ground up.