AN ECHUCA machinery dealer and self-professed tractor enthusiast is looking for old Massey Fergusons for a good cause.
Lou Iannacone is on the hunt for Massey Ferguson 35 Gold or TEA 20 models, in any condition.
Lou plans to use the old tractors as parts to re-build an as-new-condition Fergie to be raffled. The proceeds of the raffle will go towards cancer research and Lou also aims to raise awareness of men's health issues.
Lou's older brother is undergoing chemotherapy for bowel cancer and last year Lou auctioned his beloved and rare Massey Ferguson TED 40 model to help raise funds for his brother's treatment.
The TED 40 is an eight-wheeled, articulated Fergie.
"We've nicknamed the project Operation Life and we have established a committee to keep the ball rolling," Lou said.
"Firstly, we need a Fergie 35 Gold or TEA 20 model to restore," Lou said. "I'll take any I can get and the more the better as that will make sourcing parts a little easier."
"They can be in any condition, from old wrecks to running and I will come and pick them up."
Not one to rest on his laurels, Lou is also planning to build another Massey Ferguson TED 40, which he wants to drive from Echuca to Melbourne this autumn.
"My last TED 40 was a real head- turner, so I am in the process of building another and taking it on the road to keep the men's health awareness flag flying," Lou said.
"The trip should take about three days and people are already taking bets on how far I do or don't get with the journey."
Lou said he expected the trip to be wet, as he has a poor track record when it comes to him staging events for fundraising and rain.
"I've been involved with a few events through Rotary and the like for fundraising and awareness of depression and it seems every time I get involved, the event is almost flooded out," Lou said.
"Even if it's dry, when I leave Echuca on the TED 40 tractor, I reckon the fire brigade will come and hose me down just to make me feel at home."
If you can help Lou out with an old Fergie, phone 0409 570 989.
