RENOWNED East Coast woodchopper Joe Rattray will return to Pyengana this weekend for the Easter Chops event.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Rattray's successful chopping career was launched by the event almost a decade ago, but he has not competed at the chops for the last eight years.
This year's event will feature multiple chops across several grades on April 4 and 5, as well as kids' activities, sheepdog trials and machinery displays.
He missed last year's event after opting to compete at the Sydney Easter Show, but this year, he said his eyes were firmly on the top Tasmanian prize.
"I'm feeling confident, but I know there will be a lot of other great choppers coming as well," he said.
"A few of us went into the bush the other day and got blocks in preparation for it. And I've been training hard every day with [fellow chopper] Jason Helsson."
Rattray said his aim this year was to leave with the A-Grade Association Championship and the Tasmanian Championship.
The St Helens resident believes support for the unique sport has also never been stronger on the East Coast.
"People love it. We're expecting big crowds over both days. Last year we had several hundred and I think we can get the same this year."
It will also feature a novice chopping event, aimed at competitors of all ages who have never won a major chopping title.
"It's the first time the novice event has been held since I started chopping," Rattray said.
"It shows the sport is getting big and more people are taking an interest."
Pyengana Chops will take place on Saturday and Sunday at the Pyengana recreation ground from 10am.