Hundreds of people are expected to attend the annual two-day Cranky Handle Rally when it returns to the Rally Grounds next to Maitland Station.

“We are expecting good attendances of several hundred people on both days,” show organiser Peter Draper said. “There is something about old-style machinery that entrances so many people.

“The star of the show this year is expected to be a tractor pulling a sled that puts on a unique exhibition of its abilities.

“The tractor pulls a sled that has a winch on it.

“The winch puts more weight on the tractor and pulls the sled up onto a plate behind it, which is a real crowd pleaser.”

Hunter Valley Vintage Farm Machinery Club president Bill Burg said the rally would rekindle memories for some older people and intrigue young folk.

“This is our heritage, showing how our ancestors worked in their day,” Mr Burg said.

“The aim of our club is to keep machinery going for future generations to observe.”

More than 100 exhibitors from across the Hunter will bring 

tractors, chaff cutters and water pumps to the rally, which will also feature old hand tools, from spanners to axes.

Vintage cars, bikes and trucks will be on display too.

Entry to the rally is $5 a person or $10 for a family. There will be cold drinks and hot food on sale.