
The center of the celebrations in Gomel became the legendary holding "Gomselmash", whose combines are known far beyond Belarus. The holiday gathered industry veterans, young specialists, city and regional leadership, as well as hundreds of residents who came to see the enterprise's achievements.
Giants on Cosmonauts Avenue Along Cosmonauts Avenue stood 12 red "steel giants". Here a wide model range was on display: from modern machines to legendary retro specimens produced at the plant in different years. Grain harvesters, forage harvesters, mounted and trailer equipment – everything that forms the modern image of Belarusian agricultural machinery. Visitors could not only view the samples in person but also talk with engineers and representatives of the holding.
– We have here the first forage harvester KSK-100, with which the plant began production of self-propelled forage harvesters, – says marketing specialist Vladimir Chayukov. – Also presented is the KZR-10 machine – this is the first grain harvester for "Selmash". After that came grain harvesters, rotary, with a hopper.
To lively rhythms A column of the holding's youth marched solemnly along Cosmonauts Avenue. The procession, accompanied by the energetic rhythms of the Vitebsk ensemble "BARABEN", became one of the most spectacular events of the program. The procession ended at the "Gomselmash" stadium, where participants and guests continued to enjoy a large-scale festive program.
Recognizing the Best The heart of the celebration was the solemn awards ceremony. A solemn speech was delivered by the General Director of OAO "Gomselmash", Vitaly Sheleg.
– At the beginning of the sovereign path of our native Republic of Belarus, the provision of agricultural machinery for cultivation and soil treatment amounted to only fourteen percent. And today, in 2026, this figure is already ninety-eight percent – and it has been achieved by your hands, – emphasized Vitaly Sheleg. – Friends, brothers, comrades! All global turbulence is within our reach. A low bow to you, machine builders. We are the best industry of our country. Let everyone envy us. Keep it up!
He congratulated everyone on their professional holiday, expressed gratitude for their labor and especially noted the contribution of industry veterans, labor dynasties. It was also noted that Gomel equipment is known far beyond the country's borders and is competitive on the international market.
"Gomselmash will live!"
At the exhibition, veterans of the enterprise shared their memories. Mikhail Khrapunov, whose work experience is 41 years, started with the KSK-100 combine in 1978.
– I worked as a turner at GSKБ, participated in creating the "Vikhry" combine. I am proud to represent this enterprise. It is growing, and I see many young people, technical specialists. Creating such a machine is not easy; one must be a great intellectual. Although the foundation exists – universities, colleges, – says Mikhail Dmitrievich.
Anatoly Tarasov, who worked at the enterprise for 30 years, last position – deputy general director for production:
– We created the KZR-10 – the first combine that today became the prototype of the entire line of modern machines. It was a revolutionary solution for its time. No one in Belarus was producing grain combines then. For me, Machine Builder's Day is a ritual. 'Gomselmash' lives and will live!
Former workshop foreman Alexander Strakh added:
– We have together gone through a long labor path, as colleagues. I started as an assistant foreman. You see – combines have become completely different, science is moving forward, and it cannot be stopped. It is pleasant to come, look around, meet acquaintances.
A holiday for all
Guests could attend sports competitions, and children enjoyed spending time in special play areas. Various food service points were operating to refresh.
The heart of the holiday was a large stage where musical groups, dancers, and vocalists took turns. Guests happily sang along to their favorite songs, and some could not resist dancing.
Machine Builder's Day showed that the future of production lies not only in modern technologies but also in the hands of active, united, and talented youth who continue the glorious traditions of the enterprise.