Police challenged to billy cart race

Marble Bar Police have laid down the gauntlet, challenging neighbouring stations to compete in the 2016 Marble Bar Billy Cart Grand Prix.

On April 16, the streets of Marble Bar will come alive for the race that stops the Pilbara, which marks the beginning of Start of Muster celebrations in the region.

Marble Bar officer-in-charge Sergeant Todd D'Souza told the _North West Telegraph _he was confident his team would wipe the floor in the inaugural Station-Off against Nullagine and South Hedland Police.

"There is already a huge rivalry between Nullagine and Marble Bar, and to make things more interesting, South Hedland is joining us in our very first Station-Off," he said.

"We can confirm we have started building our cart and we have a gun driver who will be sure to take us to victory."

South Hedland acting Senior Sergeant Jayd Morawski remained tight-lipped on his station's preparations for the Billy Cart Grand Prix.

However, he did confirm the loser of the challenge would be left with "station fatigue" duties.

"Whichever team finishes lowest will be picking up litter and cleaning cars at the other stations," he said.

"It's all for a good cause - each station will fundraise, throwing back any winnings to the community."

After the excitement of the Billy Cart Grand Prix, participants will have the opportunity to take part in the annual Jerk-Off - a challenge that involves eating 50kg of jerky faster than anyone else.

Marble Bar resident David Walshe was crowned the 2015 Jerk Off champion after downing the jerky in under two minutes - so this year's contestants certainly have their work cut out for them.

Start of Muster celebrations will conclude at the Iron Clad Hotel, where locals and visitors can retire for the night to enjoy a nice cold beer and live entertainment.

Marble Bar Community Resource Centre assistant co-ordinator Liz Riley said the 2016 Start of Muster celebrations would be "bigger and better than ever seen before".

She said naming rights for the 2016 Billy Cart Race were still available for any local businesses interested in sponsoring the event.

For more information on entering a cart or sponsorship opportunities, contact 9176 1375 or mbcrc1@bigpond.com.

The Marble Bar Billy Cart Grand Prix, Jerk-Off and Start of Muster Party will run on April 16, from 10am.