Cars were shut out of the main street of Bangalow on Sunday (May 15) as competitors of all ages took to their hand-made vehicles in a downhill race towards a ‘crash barrier’ of hay bales.
Organiser of the annual Bangalow Billy Cart Derby, Tony Heeson, believes that that popularity of the Derby can be attributed to it’s inclusive nature.
‘The Billy Cart Derby is a wonderful example of a community event because there are no barriers to entry,’ he said.
‘It showcases good old-fashioned fun regardless of age or social status. Everyone can take part whether as individuals, families, workplaces or schools.
‘The main focus of the day is not the speed of the entries, but family fun for participants and spectators wider reach in our thriving community,’ Mr Heeson said.
Now there is sophistication. A billy cart was once a soft-drink crate nailed to a plank with ball-bearing wheels and a skipping rope. And now it seems they are built on a computer with a 3D plan for future housing.