One of Castlemaine’s longest running fun-for-all-ages events – The Castlemaine Billy Cart Challenge – is set to return this Sunday October 1.
The challenge will see a change of location in 2023. The new track in Bowden Street runs parallel to the Old Castlemaine Gaol, now home to the Bromley Collection Museum, and enjoys sweeping panoramic views of the historic township.
The Castlemaine Billy Cart Challenge brings people together from all corners of the community. It’s a time when families, friends, schools, community groups and more can come together as a team to build billy carts to race on the big day.
One of the event organisers Camilo Demarco said ‘Keeping kids on the street since 1949’ was one of their mottos.
“It’s about kids and adults getting outside, working together and having some old-school fun. We’re working towards building carts and building community – one old pram wheel at a time,” Camilo said.
Competitors will vie for Castlemaine’s finest trophies, a range of other prizes and, of course, the glory that comes with a win. Race levels range from Rookies, with Under 12 and Under 18 categories, through to Professionals.
The event aims to raise funds for local groups that support the wellbeing of the community.
With more than 50 volunteers needed, organisers have teamed up with Rotary Castlemaine to help deliver this fun-filled day.
Fellow event organiser Jane Goodrich said the extra support from Rotary had been incredible and they welcomed more volunteers to help out with marshalling and in other roles.
“It’s great to have Rotary on board and the challenge is now an official Rotary event,” she said.
Rotary Castlemaine’s Christine Barkla said the local organisation was thrilled to get behind this fantastic event.
“It’s all about fostering family and community connections and getting kids off their screens and outdoors,” she said.
One of this year’s cart entrants Miles Geldard said his family was excited to be involved.
“I last competed in 1994 and my children Ned and Louey and a friend will be piloting our Pop’s Speed Shop Newstead entry ‘Smelly Belly’ on Sunday.
“I felt like I took my life in my hands back in 94! I was terrified, but these days there is a big emphasis on safety and our cart actually has brakes!” Miles laughed.
“The cart has been fashioned from the belly tank of a 1947 P-51 Mustang World War II fighter plane in Pop’s Speed Garage at Newstead and the kids can’t wait to hit the hill!”
Local stunt man Paddy O’Sullivan will also be getting in on the action and thrilling the crowd with some of his daring tricks.
“I think the monkey bike will be making a return! It really gets everyone hyped up!” he said.
Want to be part of the action? Here’s how you can get involved:
– Build a billy cart, register and have a go
– Sign up as a volunteer
– Become a race sponsor.
Whether you’re new to the area or have been around a while, come along on Sunday between 10am and 4pm and experience this much-loved event. Relive the nostalgia of competitive billy cart racing, dating back to Castlemaine’s first soap box derby race down the big hills in 1949.
There will also be hot rods on display and a coffee van to keep spectators revving.
Further information and vehicle guidelines can be found on the website at www.castlemainebillycart.com.au
You can also stay up to date by following @castlemainebillycart on Facebook.
