Overview
- Thirteen people were hurt when a speedway car breached a barrier and struck a mobile grandstand at the Walcha Motorcycle Rally, with ages ranging from about 20 to 75.
- Two men airlifted to John Hunter Hospital were initially critical but are now described as serious and stable, and six patients remain hospitalised, according to authorities.
- NSW Police’s Crash Investigation Unit has seized the derby car, conducted scene examinations, and is analysing video evidence to determine contributing factors.
- Police say the vehicle hit the fence after an on-track collision; the 27-year-old driver underwent mandatory testing, was treated and released from hospital, and is not currently accused of wrongdoing.
- The driver’s brother said the driver “blacked out” before the breach, a claim not verified by investigators, while local officials and the Australian Demolition Derby Association flagged reviews of barrier safety and the event’s future as bystanders and off‑duty nurses were praised for first aid.