WATCH: Bangalow billy cart carnage in slow motion

CELEBRITY race winner Pete Timbs claims his victory in the premier event at the Bangalow Billy Cart Derby on Sunday was no Steven Bradbury moment.

The restaurateur claims he still would have won the coveted wooden trophy even if arch rival Blair McDonough - who also appeared on the first series of Big Brother - didn't bow out just hours before the race.

Winner of the celebrity race at the 2017 Bangalow Billy Cart championships, former Big Brother contestant and owner of The Italian diner, Pete Timbs. — Former Big Brother contestant and owner of The Italian diner, Pete Timbs won the celebrity race. Alina Rylko

"As far as I know Blair called in and chucked a sickie because his wife had gone into labour, but I think he was actually scared that I would beat him in this race," Mr Timbs said.

The Italian Diner owner said the derby - attended by over 2,000 - was a highlight for the village, fostering good community spirit and providing a show of spectacular stacks.

Bangalow Billy Carts: OUCH: A billy cart racer stacks out.

"I think Bangalow might be the last place in Australia where you can still do a billy cart race without work health and safety hassling you."

Making her race debut, Lobke Buhrnann, 36, donned scrubs to race for Vitality Vet Care said was not discouraged in her placing third (out of three) in the Mother's event.

"My husband made my billy cart, and we're very proud."