He's been a mainstay at the annual FInley Tractor Pull, but mechanical problems with the modified tractor's engine forced the Berrigan-based competitor to withdraw in 2019.
But he'll be back in 2020 looking to make up the lost time.
Riverina Screamer boasts a whopping 27lit V12 Engine, and is sure to draw a crowd to the Finley event next Saturday, February 22.
“It was unfortunate I couldn't compete last year, but after the Riverina Screamer suffered a few problems in 2018 it needed a lot of work,” he said.
“It took a bit of time to get her ready to compete again, but I'm just happy to be back out there now.
“The Screamer ran really well in Tooradin (on January 18) , so Finley should be a fun evening.
“The Finley track is always one of the best on the circuit, so it brings a lot of the best tractors to the event.
“Having it at twilight makes the setting perfect as it's not too hot when the competition gets going.
“The mini tractors are also brilliant to see, six have blown V8 engines and good entertainment for the crowd.
“At this stage there are some really powerful tractors imported from USA out there, so my chances of success aren't too high. But for me it's just about going out there and competing, having fun and providing a good bit of entertainment for the crowd.”
Mr Cottam's first tractor pull competition was in 1985, when there was a pull event in Berrigan.
It was a way for him to support a great event in his new home town, after moving to Berrigan with wife Carol in 1974, and he's not looked back since.
“I had my first tractor pull back in 1985 which took place in Berrigan and since then the sport has transformed enormously,” Joe said.
“I'm glad I got to be a part of tractor pulling as this is a big passion of mine.”
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