Queensberry Cup returns for a fourth year

The Queensberry Cup has become one of North Melbourne’s most highly anticipated community events, and it will return for a fourth year this month.

The event began in 2022, when its director, Ariel Valent, was looking for ways to bring some life back into the area.

To commute to work, he rode his bike up and down the hills of North Melbourne, which led him to reflect on the history of carts in the city, dating back to the early 20th century, when horse-drawn carts were an integral part of daily life.

This reflection sparked the idea of a billy cart race. After a few months of planning, the inaugural event was held, and four years later, it is “bigger” and “better” than ever.

The annual race features homemade billy carts, with many participants constructing their own with the help of local community workshops.

“Creativity is encouraged, with entries ranging from refurbished old carts to an ingenious billy cart made from a converted rubbish bin,” Mr Valent said.

Since the race began, the Furlong family has enshrined its name in North Melbourne billy cart folklore, having won the event each year.

Architect and builder Pete Furlong has constructed the carts that his children, Orly and Lenni, have raced to victory, with Orly winning the first two events and Lenni following in her brother's footsteps last year.

However, after achieving the Queensberry trinity, the Furlong children have stepped back from the seat this year, while their father is building carts for this year’s celebrity drivers.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece, 3AW’s Russell Howcroft, and newly elected federal MP Sarah Witty will all take part in this year’s races.

Ms Witty told North West City News that she was looking forward to connecting with her electorate but admitted that jumping behind the wheel for the first time was a little daunting.

“I need to master a go-kart and try to avoid an embarrassing stack,” she said.

“Events like the Queensberry Cup are so important for community building and social cohesion, and I'm excited to be part of it for the first time,” she added.

Lord Mayor Nick Reece described the event as the “grand prix” of the inner north. However, he believes that it is more than just a race.

This year, organisers are also shining a spotlight on North and West Melbourne’s vibrant Chinese community.

“We have a giant six-by-six-metre Mahjong mat with oversized tiles, alongside Chinese calligraphy demonstrations, a pipa performance blending traditional and heavy metal music, and a wushu martial arts display,” Mr Valent said.

Another exciting addition is the XYZ Youth Zone on Earl St near Arden St, designed for 15- to 25-year-olds.

“We’re creating a zone with music, giant games, and interactive activities curated by the YMCA and River Nile School. It’s a fresh, energetic dimension to the festivities,” Mr Valent said.

The Queensberry Cup is set to roll into the streets of North and West Melbourne on Saturday, October 18, and the organisers have called on last-minute participants to sign up and get behind the wheel. •