MACS-TRAC returns to chase away the January blues

After one of the wettest Januaries on record in Northern Ireland, there was a welcome break in the rain just in time for something special at the Head Office of MACS on the Ormeau Road.

Tractors, supercars and motorbikes rolled in for the return of MACS-TRAC, bringing together staff, young people and local businesses for a morning of conversation, connection and fundraising.

Held each January, MACS-TRAC has become a much-loved tradition for lifting spirits after the winter blues, bringing people

together for a positive start to the year while raising vital funds for MACS’ work with young people.

The event featured an impressive line-up of vehicles from John Deere, Fendt, Massey Ferguson, JCB, Lamborghini, Porsche and Harley-Davidson.

Alongside the roar of engines were cups of tea, bacon and sausage baps, and plenty of time to talk, giving visitors a chance to hear more about MACS’ work and meet the teams supporting children and young people every day.

Guests also heard from MACS CEO Kate Martin, who spoke about the charity’s mission to empower young people to find safe homes and build brighter futures.

She said:

“We are incredibly grateful to Philip Boyd, who continues to donate so much time, expertise and energy to MACS. Philip’s enthusiasm is infectious, and he has harnessed huge support from across the Northern Ireland business community. Their work reflects our belief that together, we can help young people build positive futures.”

MACS-TRAC was founded by Philip Boyd, SOS Project Manager with Kier Group, after he mobilised a network of tradespeople to deliver community projects at zero cost.

Philip said:

“The MACS-TRAC initiative started by opening the door on a tractor and climbing aboard a mighty John Deere. Keep opening those doors, because if you don’t, you will never know what’s possible.”

Supporting young people beyond housing

Alongside providing safe homes, MACS offers holistic support for young people, including education, health and wellbeing services, training and careers advice, community participation and life-skills development such as budgeting, cooking and shopping.

Early intervention remains central to MACS’ work, helping young people build pathways away from homelessness and towards long-term independence.

The January event also celebrated the wider Northern Ireland business community, who continue to support MACS through refurbishment projects, volunteering and skills-based giving across Belfast, Newry, Lisburn and Downpatrick.

From roaring engines to warm conversations over breakfast rolls, MACS-TRAC once again showed what can happen when businesses and charities come together to support young people and lift spirits during the winter months.

A special thank you to Philip Boyd, Pristine Competitions and Storm Competitions for helping bring such an unforgettable day to MACS HQ.