Two Melton residents and their “slightly questionable” Ford Falcon station wagon will travel across some of the country’s toughest roads to raise funds for cancer research.
Hosted in autumn, winter, and spring, the Shitbox Rally is a charity event that challenges teams to drive cars worth $1500 or less across Australia – including on some of its toughest roads – to raise funds for Cancer Council.
To participate, each team must raise a minimum of $5000, with a target of $2 million for the entire rally.
Melton residents Dave Undy and Stephanie Payne will drive their Ford Falcon station wagon, lovingly named ‘Puff the Magic Wagon,’ from Alice Springs to Gold Coast.
The drive will take seven days from October 24 to November 1.
Mr Undy is participating in the rally to honour his mum, while Ms Payne is participating to honour her nanna – both who have had cancer.
“While Puff may not have the horsepower of a race car, she has a big heart and is ready for the adventure from Alice Springs to the Gold Coast. This rally is a personal journey for us, filled with hope, determination, and a bit of humour along the way,” the team said.
Box Rallies founder and chief executive James Freeman, who lost both of his parents to cancer within 12 months of each other, said that the Shitbox Rally is “not a race, but a reward for fundraising efforts.”
“This is a chance to explore Australia, drawing teams from around the country to help achieve the extraordinary,” Mr Freeman said.
Businesses or individuals who would like to donate towards the team’s fundraising efforts or offer sponsorship can do so online.
Details: spring2025.shitboxrally.com.au/puff-the-magic-wagon
