THERE is about to be a different kind of horsepower racing through Balo Street later this month – and it’s happening on the big screen at Social Co House.
The Moree Mario Kart Challenge will be held on Saturday, March 21, from 2pm to 6pm, bringing together kids, teens and adults for an afternoon of friendly competition using Nintendo’s popular racing game, Mario Kart.
Event organiser Michael Phipps, better-known around the pits as ‘Phippsy’, said the goal was to create something the whole community could enjoy.
“This is one of those games where a 10-year-old can race against their mum, dad or grandparent and everyone’s laughing,” Phippsy said.
“It’s competitive, but it’s also just good fun. You don’t need to be an expert.”
Players will compete in groups of four on large screens inside the venue.
Each entrant is guaranteed four races, with their best results counting towards an overall leaderboard displayed throughout the afternoon.
The top performers will move through to the finals, where one champion will be crowned.
And there’s more than bragging rights on offer, too.
The overall winner will have their name engraved on a championship belt, which will be proudly displayed in the Social Co House bar and café area until the next event.
“We wanted something that feels official – something people can see every time they walk in,” Phippsy said.
“If this becomes a regular event, that belt is going to build some history.”
There will be junior and open prize categories as well, although everyone competes together in the same tournament.
Local businesses are also getting behind the event.
Harvey Norman is providing prizes, and Domino’s Pizza will keep racers well fed throughout the afternoon.
The event is capped at 40 players, with entry $15 per person.
Spectators are welcome to attend free of charge.
“We’ve limited it to 40 spots so everyone gets proper game time,” Phippsy said.
“Once those spots are gone, that’s it. We encourage people to book early.”
The bar will be open for adults, and pizza will be available from the menu.
Phippsy said the afternoon is designed to be safe, structured and family-friendly.
“All ages and all skill levels are welcome,” he said.
“You might have someone who plays every week, and someone who’s never held a controller before – and that’s fine. That’s what makes it fun.”
If the first challenge proves popular, organisers hope to run similar tournaments throughout the year.
“We’d love to see this become something people look forward to every few months,” Phippsy said.
Moree Mario Kart Challenge
Where: Social Co House, 167 Balo Street, Moree
When: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: From 2pm
Cost: $15 per player; spectators free
Tickets: Go to Moree Mario Kart Challenge. Bookings are essential.
