Valentine's Day Machinery sale: Keeping love and Westpac Helicopters in the air

A Valentine’s Day machinery auction with a diverse range of items is set to draw strong interest from buyers across the eastern states, with a span of lots aiming to raise funds for a vital lifeline in regional New South Wales. Organised by Davidson Cameron & Co Livestock and Property Agent, Jim Blain, the sale features everything from practical farm equipment to one-of-a-kind collector’s items.

With vendors spanning across the regions of northern New South Wales, the auction also includes a special charity component, ensuring the event is not only about securing a great buy but also about supporting a worthy cause.

The Higgins family of Curracabark Angus and Hereford Stud will be donating the proceeds from their lots (36-41) to the Westpac Rescue and Helicopter Service – Northern NSW (Gloucester Branch).

Sandy Higgins believes if you have the means to support lifesaving services you should. 

"We like to support Westpac Helicopters where we can because accidents are always happening and locals here are always being picked up by it, but it could be us next," Mr Higgins said.

"It's a great service, and it's something we've always trusted. They always need the support, because they struggle to raise the funds as it's awfully expensive to run these choppers. They're an incredibly important service to the local community," Mr Higgins added. 

“The Higgins family are long-time supporters of their local region, and their contribution will help raise vital funds for emergency services,” Mr Blain said.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in Northern New South Wales operates four machines providing emergency aeromedical services to 1.5 million people across Northern NSW regions.

With an experienced operational team ready to respond 24-7, their service is an integral link in the NSW emergency care chain.

The auction will also include newly fabricated livestock equipment, such as race drafts and dog kennels, as well as items suited for a more personal touch, like a picnic table—ideal for a Valentine’s Day outing.

New, heavy duty outdoor picnic table featured in the sale. Pic: Supplied

Among the standout items within the auction is a rare 1955 John Deere Header, which Mr Blain said is still in good working condition.

"The header, recently used for harvesting grass seed near Maybole, has been well maintained, with $11,000 recently spent on the front and belts", Mr Blain said.

“It’s a solid, reliable machine ready for work or for collectors,” he added.

“The vendor has ensured it’s in excellent condition and is even providing a working receipt for the recent upgrades.”

1955* John Deere Header. Pic: Supplied

The vendor listing the header will also be offering a Massey Fergusson 585 Sunshine Grass Seeder Header. Mr Blain described the machine as “Working PTO driven grass seed harvester - does an outstanding job. The vendor is selling the machine as it is surplus to their operation”.

With everything from horse trucks to excavators, the auction offers a unique opportunity to find a thoughtful gift or a practical addition to the farm.

For those looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a memorable way, the sale provides a chance to purchase something meaningful while supporting the community.

The Davidson Cameron Valentine Day Machinery Sale will run from February 14 to 18.