John Deere 5125R this year’s showpiece model

DRAYTON – Model tractors have been a feature at the Drayton Farm Show since 1987.

There is a cabinet at the Dratyon Kinsman’s headquarters, “full of almost every tractor we’ve had since 1987,” said Ray Kuper, Kinsman chair of the show.

Antique models used to be the favourite, but Kuper said that has changed.

“The next generation of farmers don’t look at the antique ones, they look at a model from the ‘80s or ‘90s and say, ‘That’s what I drove as a kid,’” Kuper explained.

And the models are getting harder to come by.

This year’s model, a John Deere 5125R with front loader, will be modified with things like a hammer light and decals.

“John Deere is the most popular. It’s what people want,” Kuper said.

“Some people have been collectors right from the beginning. They won’t even take them out of the box.”

There will be approximately 50 available for sale at the show.