Variety Bash raising cash for kids

Early arrivers in Bendigo: Sydneysiders Lisa and Andrew Neate with Gill and Guy "Woody" Ward and their team vehicle Out of Bounds. Photo: ADAM CARSWELL

MORE than eighty fancily decorated classic cars stopped over in Bendigo on Tuesday night at the finish of the third leg of the 2025 Variety B to B Bash.

The Bash is an 11-day, 3600-kilometre journey across New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia that aims to raise $1.5 million for the Variety children’s charity, which supports young people who are sick, experiencing disadvantage, or living with a disability.

The convoy departed Bomaderry on the NSW southern coast on Sunday and will finish in Blacktown (Western Sydney) on Wednesday 13 August.

According to Variety NSW/ACT CEO Tony Warner, the Bash is about fun, friendship and making a lasting impact.

“(It’s) about having fun with purpose,” he said.

“Every kilometre travelled and every costume worn helps us to deliver life-changing grants, programs and events to the kids who need it most, especially those in remote and regional areas.

“We’re incredibly lucky to have a passionate Bash community – some of whom have been with us for over 30 years – supporting Variety’s vital work, which opens doors to improved mobility and freedom and unlocks the potential of every child.”

This year’s Bash will see $65,000 in grants dropped off directly at 13 regional schools, including Lockwood Primary School, helping to fund educational resources, as well as playground and sporting equipment.

A key event highlight is happening today in Adelaide, where over 650 Bash cars and 1600 participants from across the country are coming together to celebrate Variety’s 50th year in Australia.