BILLY carters are busy fine-tuning their "machines" in readiness for this weekend's Unity Bank Hunter Soap Box Derby 2019 at Muswellbrook.
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Following a hugely successful inaugural event in 2018, organisers will hope to capitalise on that excitement again when the second instalment hits Carl Street - with competitors expected to reach speeds of almost 35km/h - on Saturday.
And, the participants' imagination certainly came to the fore last year, with numerous uniquely-designed carts catching the attention of the throng of spectators on the sidelines.
"We feel society has lost a sense of good old-fashioned fun," Hunter Life Education executive officer Sarah Gray said.
"So, we wanted to bring it back.
"The Hunter Soap Box Derby is a fundraiser organised by, and for the benefit of, Hunter Life Education, working to ensure young people of the region have access to free or subsidised Life Education lessons.
"These lessons empower youngsters to lead safer and healthier lives though education.
"So, thanks must go to all of our sponsors for their support in making this event come to fruition.
"There'll be family-friendly entertainment and food at the Regional Australia Bank Pit Lane Precinct at the finish line, which is located in the PCYC Muswellbrook car park.
"We're hosting children's amusements, market stalls, military and emergency services equipment displays, too."
Cart scrutineering will take place between 7am and 8.55am.
Then the action starts from 9am, with the winners' presentation scheduled for 3pm.
There are several race categories, beginning with juniors (drivers aged 7-15), seniors (drivers aged 16+), the BHP Mt Arthur Coal Emergency Services and Defence contest, followed by a showdown between Hunter corporates and businesses.
Details and specifications can be found online at www.hunterlifeeducation.org.au and pre-registrations are being taken now.
Alternatively, register your cart on the day of the event.