Valued at more than $300,000, the competition is open to anyone who owns or operates earthmoving equipment, no matter what brand. Entries will be accepted until February 2011.

According to New Holland Australian brand leader Wayne Munce, construction contractors are an outgoing and adventurous group.

“They’re the kind of people who aren’t afraid to try something new, give things a go and really make the most of whatever life presents them. I’ll bet lots of them would jump at the chance to board a space flight,” he said.

To date Virgin Galactic has successfully trialled flights of its SpaceShip Two and has been accepting bookings since 2005. A definite commencement date for Virgin Galactic’s flights has not yet been announced but it is believed the service will launch in the near future.

“We’ll offer additional entries to anyone who test drives a New Holland skid steer, backhoe, tele-handler or mini excavator, and we’re rewarding New Holland customers with 10 additional entries when they make a purchase,” Wayne Munce said.

* Visit www.newholland-spa ce.com.au.