From Big Dog to Willy Wonka – surprises in store for Bangalow Billycart Derby

ORGANISERS of the Bangalow Billycart Derby are hoping for clear skies ahead of this month’s much-loved community event, following weeks of wet weather across the region.

“The weather’s been pretty indifferent lately but we have been very lucky – in 30 years we have only lost one day through rain,” Bangalow Lions Club’s Greg Nash said. “We cancelled it at 7 o’clock and regretted it at 10 o’clock. We had one shower last year but it was at lunchtime so that was fine.”

Hundreds of competitors are expected to take part in the derby on Sunday, 17 May, when the town’s main street will be closed to traffic for a full day of racing. Events include parent and child races, mothers’ and school challenges, tag team events, professional categories and novelty races.

“There’s already 250 registrations and we are expecting 350 or more,” Nash said. “You can register on the day but it’s better to go online.”

All billycarts undergo safety checks in the morning, with scrutineers inspecting size, brakes and steering before racing begins.

“Safety first is our policy,” Nash said. “All the kids have to wear a helmet and many also wear knee pads and elbow pads. In 30-plus years there’s never been a serious accident. We have had a few scrapes for sure. The fire brigade offer first aid services at the fire station, which is open for the day so the kids can have a look at the fire truck.”

 

Festivities also include a grand parade at 12.30pm, featuring Channel Nine’s Big Dog, followed by a Scottish pipe band performance at the Bangalow Hotel that, as Nash puts it, “blows the roof off”.

Students from Emmanuel Anglican College in Ballina will perform scenes from their upcoming musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with the school’s principal, comedian Wayne ‘Wally’ Cross, on the commentary team.

The derby coincides with Bangalow Public School P&C’s major annual fundraiser, The Pit Stop fair, which will offer carnival rides, games and food stalls.

Nash said the event’s success relied on strong community backing, with sponsors including Summerland Bank, The Cellar, GNF Real Estate, Beacon Laundry, Brad’s Butchery and Crunch Finance.

The Cellar Bangalow manager Liette Snow said the business had supported the derby since its inception, with staff and their children regularly taking part.

“It’s just a fabulous community day,” she said. “My colleague Pippa and I do the registrations, so we start at 6am. That’s our way of contributing as well. We have been doing it for years. Our cart is one of the oldest – it races all day.”

To register, download a form from bangalowbillycart.com.au