A charity event has traversed over 2,000 kilometers across South Australia, adapting its route due to flooded outback roads.
This year’s Variety Bash has successfully generated more than $2 million for the children’s organization Variety SA.
Despite facing torrential rains and flooded pathways, over 70 vehicles participated in this year’s event, although the inclement weather necessitated a significant route change.
Initially planned to connect Mildura to Gawler, through Queensland and northern South Australia, the annual rally had to adjust its itinerary due to extensive flooding from record rainfall in May. The organizers referred to this change as a “pivot to Pirie.”
Commencing on August 8 in Gawler, participants transformed the standard 200-kilometer journey to Port Pirie into an extensive 2,304-kilometer adventure, passing through Kimba, Streaky Bay, Port Lincoln, and additional locations.
Darren Greatrex, the event chair, noted the considerable effort required for this adjustment. “This was not part of the plan for this year. Our intention was to reach the West Coast next year,” he remarked.
He added, “However, about 12 weeks ago, it became evident that we could not reach our original target, Birdsville, due to the high water levels in that area. Coordinating such a significant change with 300 enthusiastic participants and navigating through small towns was quite a challenge. Yet, we managed to pull it off and had a fantastic time.”
Even with the rally commencing alongside a significant weather event, Mr. Greatrex commented that the participants handled the conditions “surprisingly well.”
With certain routes being particularly soft or submerged, several of the 72 vehicles involved may soon require a wash.
Throughout the previous year, the 231 participants of the bash have been actively fundraising for children facing health challenges, disadvantages, or disabilities, distributing over $480,000 in grants during the eight-day event.
Notable grants include $150,000 each for inclusive playgrounds at Penong Primary School and Port Lincoln Primary School, along with funding for sensory equipment, scholarships, and sports facilities in various communities.
Kathy Davison, the principal of Port Lincoln Primary School, expressed her gratitude for the grant, calling it “incredible” for the local area. “We had a playground taken down, and now we can replace it for both students with disabilities and those without. It’s wonderful,” she stated.
This year, the SA Bash raised just over $2 million, and witnessing the joy this funding brings to children is what motivates participants to return year after year.
