Billy Cart Races

2025 will see the return of Better in Blackall Festival’s signature event - Billy Cart Races!

Proudly supported by the Blackall-Tambo Regional Council and Blackall Blue Light, 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 16th August 2025

  • Registration CUT OFF DATE THURSDAY 14th August 5.00pm

  • Racing will start at 3.00pm sharp, Saturday 16th of August, 2025

Get ready for Billy Cart Races

Download Conditions of Entry
Download Entry Form

Conditions of entry

Racing will be held on a closed section of Short Street, August 16th, 2025

  • 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

  • Under 9’s 

  • 10–14 years 

  • Open

    • All entrants will be eligible for selection for the Lou Turlan Encouragement award and Best Dressed Cart and Driver.