Among the many engines, trucks, tractors, dozers and bicycles on display was John Mitchell's 1923 Ronaldson-Tippet which was used to cut chaff for horses.

"My grandfather rebuilt this in 1948. It was the last engine he ever rebuilt and he told me if I want to buy a good one buy this, and I did," Mr Mitchell said.

"It's never been used since."

The machine has spent its working life in Cobden, and was originally owned by a Mr Cook who used to travel around the region cutting chaff.

South Western District Restoration Group president Brian Cockayne said its annual rally attracted 700 people to both the Saturday and Sunday events.