Dozens of teams planning to take part in Variety’s B to B Bash in August gathered on the Central Coast on Sunday, July 7, for a test run.
Leaving Morisset at 9.30am, the convoy arrived at Wyong at 12.30pm, with themed cars, including Minions, Shrek and Frozen, taking part.
Veteran ‘Bashers’ showed the rookies how to use the radio system ahead of the journey and the test run gave the cars a good try-out.
Among the drivers was Jamie Price, who has taken part in the Bash for 27 years.
He first became involved after seeing an ad on TV calling for participants to “have a drive in the countryside with a heap of mates”.
“It sounded like fun and I hadn’t had a holiday for 11 years so I thought I’d have a go,” he said.
“When I saw what Variety does for disabled children I was hooked.”
Price met his wife Tracey when they were both Bash contestants and his daughter has also become involved in recent years.
“My wife and daughter join me on bashes in Sydney and at Newcastle in my Minions-themed car,” he said.
But for the big one in August, Price will travel in a 4WD vehicle together with life member Roy Hart, who drove more than 30 bashes during his career, and act as an official.
“That means we will be driving in front and doing checkpoints,” he said.
“There is a great support network during the Bash – you are never alone or stranded.
On each leg of the Bash, drivers are given route directions, taking them through a variety of rural towships.
The 40th Variety B to B Bash will see 300 participants aiming to raise $1.5M to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.
It will start in Dubbo on August 11 and wind up in Mudgee on August 22.
It will follow the tracks of the trailblazing 1985 original Bash convoy – 12 days and 6,000kms of thrilling bush driving, scenic vistas and heartfelt philanthropy.
As the Bash teams traverse the outback, they’ll be making a real difference.
The Bash convoy brings vital support to remote communities, delivering more than $100,000 in grants to schools for everything from playground equipment to laptops and library resources.
In tiny towns with populations under 100, the Bash arrival is a major event, bringing smiles to the faces of local kids and fostering a sense of connection.
Variety NSW/ACT CEO Tony Warner said the Bash has become an Australian tradition, uniting people for a cause that truly matters.
“This 40th anniversary is a chance to reflect on the incredible legacy of the Variety B to B Bash,” he said.
“From the joy on children’s faces to the tangible support we provide, the Bash embodies the spirit of Variety.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who’s been part of this journey, and we can’t wait to keep making a difference together.”
The Bash festivities will begin with a Variety Family Fun Day in Victoria Park, Dubbo, on Saturday, August 10, from noon-3pm featuring live music, roving characters and Bash cars.
For $5 families can enjoy face painting, amusement rides and activities.
For more information, to sign up or donate, visit: varietybash.org.au
Terry Collins