Eddie Russell
Melton Toyota has contributed an exclusive vehicle to children’s charity Variety to help raise money for sick kids.
From August 16 – 24, a convoy of more than 70 themed vintage cars will make the pilgrimage from Swan Hill to Airlie Beach as part of the Variety Vic Bash.
Variety Vic motoring events manager Scott Watson said the “colourful carnival” would take on the “reddest and roughest roads” in Australia.
And now they will do it with a Toyota Tundra, a pick up truck which is yet to be released on the Australian market.
Mr Watson said the car will be used to carry guitars, amps, stands, and for important rest and recreation.
“We have 20 support vehicles and this particular one is being used to take equipment for our resident muso who entertains us along the route,” he said.
The flagship fundraising event helps kids living with a disability, illness, or disadvantage.
The money goes towards buying essential items for affected children and their families who desperately need support, said Mr Watson.
“For whatever reason, they are unable to access things like services, medical devices, and education, so we fill those gaps.”
Donations are open until the penultimate night of the event on August 23.
“Obviously every cent makes a difference to what we can provide for the kids so we encourage people to pick a car they love and give some support,” said Mr Watson.
Melton Toyota principal dealer Grant Harrison said the Tundra was an “absolute chariot” that was perfect for the gruelling trip.
“I’ve driven it many times myself through Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Forest and it’s a flawless car,” he said.
“These guys are spoiled… it’s comfortable, efficient, and powerful.”
Mr Harrison said the outcome was simple.
“If we can help support Variety, we can help the young kids.”
“They’re the ones coming into the world – not us old people. We don’t need as much as these kids.”
Melton Toyota is also a long-time sponsor for the ’Apollo 11’ car in the Variety Bash, which is driven by a group of mates from Bacchus Marsh.
Donate: fundraise.variety.org.au/event/bash/home
