Walcha, Australia - Nine people were injured, one critically, Saturday night when a car participating in a demolition derby at the annual Walcha Motorcycle Rally crashed through a fence and into the spectator grandstand.
New South Wales police reported the incident occurred in the town of Walcha during the demolition derby – a motorsport event involving drivers intentionally ramming their vehicles into one another. The injured bystanders ranged in age from 20 to 75, with a 54-year-old man suffering critical injuries.
Authorities stated the 27-year-old driver of the vehicle was involved in a collision on the track instantly before the car left the racing surface and struck the fence. A full inquiry is underway.
The Walcha Council released a statement expressing shock at “the unfortunate accident” and pledged to cooperate with investigators to determine the circumstances leading to the incident. The Council added that further comment would be “inappropriate” until the inquiry is complete.
Local member of parliament Brendan Moylan, representing Northern Tablelands, praised the “swift and incredibly professional work” of emergency responders and bystanders. “My thoughts are with everyone affected,” he posted on Facebook.
Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce,the New England lawmaker,also shared his concern on Facebook,stating his “thoughts,prayer and hopes” were with those injured. He described the incident as “such a sad end to such a grate event.”
The Walcha Motorcycle Rally is described as a “grassroots event for motorcycle enthusiasts.”
