Morrie Oxley reunited with twin Chamberlain tractor

An 88-year-old renowned central Victorian farmer has shared an “emotional” afternoon with his restored tandem Chamberlain tractor.

Central Victorian farming legend Morrie Oxley and his innovative farming invention, a twin Chamberlain tractor, have been reunited at long last in an emotional ceremony.

At the Mt Alexander Vintage Engine Club’s 2023 Tractor Pull, 88-year-old Mr Oxley completed a lap of honour in his restored tandem Chamberlain tractor, created in the 1980s, when he combined two different Chamberlains together to form a piece of farm equipment with unique power and manoeuvrability.

Mr Oxley’s daughter Joanne Moon, who had spent many days on the tandem Chamberlain tractor herself, said her father was thrilled to spend an unexpected afternoon with his unique piece of machinery, known affectionately as the Lizard.

“He was absolutely delighted and it was great to see him back together with the Chamberlain,” Ms Moon said.

Morrie Oxley and his hybrid Chamberlain tractor showcased at the Dave Bennett Reserve at Muckleford, Victoria, during the Mt Alexander Vintage Engine Club's 2023 Tractor Pull. Pictures: Supplied (Julie Hough)

“It was very emotional. He loved it, the smile on his face said it all and it brought back some fabulous memories.”

Hailing from Raywood, a small town north of Bendigo, Mr Oxley started farming beef, sheep and mixed cropping in the late 1940s.

Initially Mr Oxely was using a working horse team of between four and 12 Clydesdales, but ever the innovator, he built his own powerhouse to run farm machinery including the Lizard.

Morrie Oxley at the wheel of his tandem Chamberlain tractor once again. Robbie Green (left), who helped restore the tractor and MAVEC member John Blake watch on.

The twin Chamberlain quickly gained a reputation thanks to its doubled horsepower and 4WD capabilities.

Thanks to the Lizard and the biggest hay mower of the times, which he also constructed, Mr Oxley became a pioneer of advanced farming techniques, regularly returning the biggest crop yields in the district.

However, after calling time on his farming pursuits in the 1990s, the twin Chamberlain had since fallen into disrepair.

Morrie Oxley’s twin Chamberlain, known as the Lizard.

Long-time member of the Mt Alexander Vintage Engine Club and tractor and old machinery collector Laurie Adams acquired what remained of the unique tractor, beginning the journey towards its restoration.

“The engine club has done a great job getting it up and running,” Ms Moon said.

“Robbie Green has done amazing work so it can be showcased to everyone.”