World first roller derby masters event to showcase senior skaters

A WORLD first women’s flat track roller derby event is set to light up Byron Bay with some of the sports most senior skaters to compete at the Cavanbah Centre.

The event is hosted by the Northern Rivers Roller Derby in partnership with the Tweed Valley Rollers.

About 160 skaters and 40 officials from across Australia and New Zealand will take part in the tournament on November 15-16.

Roller derby is a full-contact sport played by two teams on quad roller skates on a flat, oval track.

The Byron Bay tournament will be a celebration to honour some of the pioneers of the sport in Australia, featuring over-50s games for the first time.

The grand masters (over-50s) had 24 teams compete for five qualification spots in the Dinosaur Derby.

“The tournament is the first globally to feature unique age-based competition requirements,” event organiser Melanie Jane said.

“It will showcase a B-grade tournament for skaters aged 35 and over, while A-grade players can take the track only if they are 40 or older.”

“This exciting new chapter is a testament to the sport’s explosive growth since its modern resurgence (in 2000).”

Roller derby is often described as the game as a cross between American football and chess.

It takes years of practice with competitors coming up with their special derby names.

They draw inspiration from punk music, food and popular culture.

Some of the names include Lady Smackbeth, Red Hot Chili Piper, Twisted Nickers and Chili con Carnage.

The Byron Bay tournament will feature 69-year-old Rob Preston, known on the track as Pension Check.

He is believed to be the oldest active roller derby player in Australia.

“I’ve experienced firsthand how roller derby provides soul-soothing acceptance and a deep sense of family,” Jane said.

“The overwhelming demand for this event proves that this isn’t a fleeting activity; it’s a lifelong journey, and our older players are ready to write the next chapter.”

The tournament is sponsored by Suncorp Bank, with all proceeds going towards the Byron Seniors Club.