By 2013 the Kurilpa Derby had settled into its identity as one of the most photographically rich events on Brisbane’s calendar. The formula was established — roller derby on the hill, bathtub and go-kart races, musicians on the footpaths, the neighbourhood in full expression — but the specific content of each year’s event is always different enough to make the photographs distinct.
The image of the baby in the esky on the skateboard is one of the most memorable I have made at any derby. The parent had rigged the cooler with skateboard wheels and was pushing the child through the crowd. The baby was looking out with complete equanimity. In the context of the derby, the setup seemed entirely reasonable.
On the go-kart race: The children’s go-kart race at dusk produced one of the best action images of the day. The light at that point in the afternoon was warm and raking across the street, and the chaos of the race — children pushing, one go-kart tipped over in the background, a parent running alongside — compressed into a single frame. The girl at the front was laughing.
On the elder at the microphone: The Kurilpa Derby makes space for the Aboriginal community of West End in a way that feels genuine rather than performative. The elder speaking at the microphone, with an Aboriginal flag lei around her neck, was given the platform without ceremony and used it. I made the photograph from a respectful distance.
On skating in the street: The roller derby component is what gives the event its name and its centre of gravity. By 2013 the skaters were experienced enough at the street format to use the full width of Boundary Street and the long sight lines that come from a closed road. The skater in the purple helmet, low and balanced, with the full length of the street stretching behind her, is an image about freedom of movement in a public space.
Each Kurilpa Derby is the neighbourhood at its best.
More Kurilpa Derby coverage: Kurilpa Derby 2011 · Kurilpa Derby 2012 · Kurilpa Derby 2015