The iconic Variety NSW Bash has returned for its 32nd year, raising vital funds to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.

Gunnedah marked the starting point for this year’s bash, with vehicles setting off from Wolseley

Park on Sunday for the seven-day road trip.

The Variety NSW Bash is a unique motoring event that brings together car enthusiasts from all walks of life for a fun-filled adventure – it is a spectacular display of camaraderie and community spirit.

Gunnedah has its own participants part of this year’s bash journey.

Expressway Spares’ Gunnedah branch manager Anthony Smith is behind the wheel of a 1978 Ford Falcon and is joined in ‘The Froggy Wrecker’ by Emeco Gunnedah area manager Bill Jeffery and Whitehaven Coal Vickery Mine maintenance supervisor Michael Considine.

Throughout the 2400km journey, $95,000 in grants will be awarded to rural schools and communities along the route.

Participants are encouraged to decorate and theme their vehicles; from Thomas the Tank Engine and Lightning McQueen to Star Wars, Harry Potter and Minions, all while raising critical funds for Variety – the Children’s Charity.

Following Gunnedah, stops include Emmaville, Warwick, Yangan, Moonie, Roma, Bymount, Begonia, St George, Mungindi, Garah, Moree, Mallawa, Mullaley, Tamworth, Duri, Muswellbrook and finishing with a Family Fun Day in Newcastle.

“We are thrilled to be bringing back the Variety NSW Bash for another year,” said Tony Warner, CEO of Variety NSW/ACT.

“This event is a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts, and it plays a vital role in helping us provide essential support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability across NSW,” said Tony.

“The Variety NSW Bash is not just about the drive; it’s about the incredible people who participate. From seasoned veterans to first-time Bashers, everyone comes together with a shared passion for making a difference in the lives of children.”

While taking the road less travelled, participants of this rewarding adventure raise funds for children in need with grants awarded to schools and community organisations along the route.

Gunnedah Rotary West volunteers were busy early manning the barbecue and providing the food at the starting point – from left Alan Barker, Tammy Wortley, Prue Kesby, Marg and David Amos, Bruce Higham, Karen Neader, George Truman, Will Lyle, Doug Brown, Mark Kesby, James Vince, front, Maddie Mamara.

This year, more than $95,000 will be awarded, the beneficiaries include Emmaville Central School, Yangan State School, Moonie State School, Begonia State School, Bymount State School, St George State School, Mungindi Central School, Garah Public School, Mallawa Public School, Mullaley Public School and Duri Public School. Each school will each receive more than $5000 each for educational resources and sporting equipment such as projectors, workbooks, pedal desks and high jump mats.

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