Fuelling The Future

A generous donation is set to strengthen the work of a passionate group dedicated to preserving the region’s mechanical history.

The Pioneer Valley Machinery Preservationists Society Inc. has received an 8-tonne forklift, more than 50 years old, restored and donated by Joyce Mechanical Service.  

The forklift was donated by Adam Joyce of Joyce Mechanical Service, along with business partner Charlie Watts and Adam’s wife Rachel Joyce, in a gesture that Mr Joyce said would greatly support the club’s ongoing work.  

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The valuable addition will allow the volunteer group to safely move and restore heavy machinery that was previously beyond their capacity.

Club president Terry Joyce said the donation, made by his son and the team at Joyce Mechanical Service, would make a significant difference to the group’s work.

“My son donated it and I received it on behalf of the club,” Mr Joyce said. “It’s awesome and we’re very proud of it.”

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The society has about 43 members and has been operating for roughly 25 years, bringing together enthusiasts who restore and preserve antique engines, tractors, trucks and other historic machinery. Their headquarters is currently based at the former CWA building at North Eton.

Mr Joyce said the forklift would play an important role as the club continues to grow and prepares for future projects.

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“We preserve, repair and display equipment that’s been donated to the club,” he said. “This forklift will be a huge help in handling that sort of gear.”

The club is made up of volunteers of all ages, including its oldest active member, 95-year-old Ken, whose decades of experience represent the abundance of knowledge shared within the group.

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“There’s a real wealth of experience among our members,” Mr Joyce said.

“We’re just incredibly grateful for this donation.”

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New members, particularly younger people interested in learning about historic machinery, are always welcome to join the society. For more information, contact Terry on 0407991062

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