A break down just 50 kilometres from the start line was not enough to deter a team of locals taking part in this year’s Variety Bash.
The Melton Toyota Emperors, consisting of team members Grant Harrison, Paul Cunningham and Paul Dobson took part in the annual fundraiser, driving from Hamilton to Darwin.
They set off on August 8 in a 1985 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon. But Their excitement about taking part in the nation’s longest-running charity motoring event was tested 50km outside of Hamilton when their car became the first to break down, blowing a head gasket.
Melton Toyota came to the trio’s rescue and within six hours they were back on the road in a backup Landcruiser 300 GRS.
The trip took them through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes including the Flinders Ranges, Marree and Lake Eyre, the Innamincka Track, Coober Pedy, Alice Springs, Adelaide River ans Litchfield National Park.
Mr Harrison said they visited four schools during the bash.
“Despite the early setback, our team had a blast and raised just over $26,500 for Variety. We’re already gearing up for next year’s adventure to Exmouth, [Western Australia],” he said.
The Variety Bash raises money for Variety – the Children’s Charity, supporting children who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disability
