Billy Cart Races

2023 will see the return of Better in Blackall Festival’s signature event - Billy Cart Races!

Proudly supported by the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council, Blackall Blue Light and RACQ Foundation, the Festival’s signature event is must-do fun for participants and spectators. We’ve ramped up the fun with this year’s event adding additional features to the track - get ready for some fast and furious family fun.

  • Registration must be completed and approved to take part in this event. Conditions of Entry and Registration forms are available for download below.

  • Complete the nomination form and submit by email, or print and hand in at the Blackall Visitor Information Centre.

  • BTRC Billy Cart Races will be held in Short Street on 19th August 2023 

  • Registration will be taken from 2.00pm - CUT OFF TIME IS 3.30pm 

  • Racing will start at 4.00pm sharp.

Get ready for Billy Cart Races

Conditions of entry

Racing will be held on a closed section of Short Street, August 19th, 2023

  • A driver must use the same Billy Cart throughout the event

  • All Billy Carts must have one occupant only

  • A driver may enter more than one category, if applicable

  • The same Billy Cart may be entered in a different category by a different driver, but not the same category with a different driver

  • All Billy Carts will commence from a stationary start with the driver seated in the Cart

  • No pedalling, pushing, paddling or propulsion of any kind is allowed, rocking is permitted

  • Billy Carts must have fixed seating, and the driver must remain seated throughout the race

  • All judges decisions are final on the day

    Driver Requirements

  • A Billy Cart or driver may be disqualified at any time at the discretion of the Chief Steward

  • Each entrant must provide a signed entry form before participating in the Billy Cart races or PRACTICE

  • In the event that the entrant is under the age of eighteen, a parent/guardian of the entrant must sign the form

  • By signing the entry form, the participant and their parent/guardian, if applicable, accepts the terms and conditions of entry in the Billy Cart Derby and associated indemnity clause

  • At the date of the event, entrants must fall within the specified category

  • All Billy Carts must pass scrutineering before being allowed to practice or run.

  • An approved cycling, equestrian or motorcycle helmet MUST BE WORN when participating in Billy Cart Derby events

  • All drivers MUST wear long-sleeved shirts or jumpers, long trousers, gloves and fully enclosed footwear

  • It is strongly recommended that drivers also wear knee/elbow pads

  • Each driver must be able to control the steering and brakes

    Race Procedures

  • The fastest two carts in all other classes will run off in a final

  • Starting lanes will be of equal length

  • All carts will start with the front wheel contact points in line

  • All judges decisions are final on the day.

    Billy Cart Dimensions and Specifications

  • Overall length of cart not to exceed 2400mm

  • Overall width to be between 400mm and 1200mm

  • Maximum weight (without driver) 70kg

  • Billy Carts used in age group categories can also be used in open category

  • The Billy Cart must have an adequate steering mechanism

  • The Billy Cart must have a working break – NOT YOUR FOOT ON THE ROAD OR WHEEL!!

  • The wheels are to be retained in a safe manner

  • There must be sturdy construction of all Billy Cart components, and fixed seating

  • Billy Carts made from unduly heavy materials or carrying additional ballast are not permitted

  • There shall be no sharp protrusions or ornaments

  • There shall be no device to aid starting or to help propel the cart

  • NO motors, sails, pedals, paddles or any other propulsion device are allowed.

    Categories

  • Mini Motor heads - Under 5’s 

  • Under 9’s 

  • 10–14 years 

  • Open 

  • Business House Challenge

  • Best Dressed Cart and Driver

    All entrants will be open for selection in the people’s choice award.