Aside from a showcase of old machinery that probably should be beyond repair but is in fact in A1 running order, there’s the knowledge that the Rusty Iron Rally has a tried and true format which is always a hit with the punters.

This year’s annual show will be the 19th put on by the Mid North Coast Machinery Restoration Club, and president Chris Garrett is promising more of the same with a few tweaks.

Early indications are that there will be around 100 engines on show, and a similar number of tractors rumbling about.

Chris said exhibitors will come from as far afield as Queensland, Sydney and Dubbo - and one of the unusual exhibits this year will be an aircraft radial engine.

The featured machines in 2014 will be Buzacott engines, International tractors and White-Diamond T-Reo trucks.

A highlight is always the grand parade of tractors large and small - and this will circle the main ring at 2pm on the Saturday and 1pm on the Sunday.

A forerunner both days will be a parade of vintage cars, bikes and trucks at 11am.

On top of that Chris said rally-goers can look forward to the usual host of stalls selling everything from pluto pups through to cow bells, plus there’ll be kids’ rides.

Active displays will include sled pulling and tractor games.

Gates will open at 9am both days and admission will be $7 adults, $3 child and $20 family (with deals available for anyone wanting a pass to both days of the exhibition).