Vehicle involved in demolition derby enters spectator area (15 November 2025)

An incident occurred during a demolition derby event held during a community motorcycle rally.

During the event, a vehicle left a defined operating area, passed through a metal fence, and collided with a temporary tiered seating structure. Several spectators were propelled into the air, sustaining serious injuries.

Demolition derby events involve modified vehicles intentionally colliding with one another within a designated area. These events happen regularly at agricultural shows and community events across NSW.

Spectator seating area showing damage from a vehicle impact; the first three metal seats are bent and twisted. The photo also shows the seating area from the outside.
Image: Damage to the spectator seating
                                                             

Safety information

Businesses and event organisers must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with powered mobile plant and vehicles operating near workers and members of the public, particularly at motorsport, agricultural shows and community events.

Ensure:

  • effective physical separation is maintained between vehicles and spectators using robust, fixed barriers designed to prevent vehicle encroachment
  • exclusions zones are established and clearly defined between vehicle operating areas and pedestrian or spectator areas
  • risk assessments are completed for all high-risk activities and reviewed prior to the event
  • event-specific emergency plans are developed, documented and communicated to workers, volunteers and relevant stakeholders
  • clear roles and responsibilities are established for event operations and emergency response
  • information, training and instruction is provided to workers and volunteers involved in planning and running the event
  • vehicle operating rules and safety requirements are clearly communicated to participants and enforced throughout the event.

Statistics

Demolition derby events and other motorsport activities are held regularly at agricultural shows and community events across NSW, with several events planned each year.

Incidents involving vehicles interacting with people continue to present a serious risk of injury or death, particularly where adequate separation and effective physical controls are not in place.

SafeWork NSW continues to focus on reducing injuries caused by mobile plant and vehicles, including through targeted compliance and education activities.

Related guidance material

Further information

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