A motorcade consisting of 101 teams visited Bunnaloo Public School on Wednesday, as part of the 2023 NSW/ACT Variety Bash.
School principal Darren Devereux spoke about the electric feeling the town had experienced as it hosted the event for the first time.
“It’s such an exciting morning that the school has never experienced before, so the Parents and Citizens Association came together to put on a feast for the ‘bashers’ and ensure all the participants are well fed,” he said.
“The event has proved so successful that the Parents and Citizens Association has been able to raise an additional $14,000, which will also go to the school.”
An additional $5000 was raised by the various teams and members of the 2023 Variety Bash.
Variety motoring events manager Victor Sheil said it was terrific to be in Bunnaloo.
“This event is one of the better events that we’ve put together,” he said.
“The camaraderie between the drivers and the fact that they’re having a great time and bouncing off each other and creating a great atmosphere. But it’s the kids we visit that will truly benefit.”
The teams arrived at the school from just after 7am, with 321 people taking part.
Father and daughter Nick and Victoria Zardo were among them.
This year marked Nick’s 10th Variety Bash, while Victoria is on her first.
“We love seeing the kids with a big smile on their face as we visit their country towns, and hopefully they’ll get to see something they normally wouldn’t,” Mr Zardo said.
“It’s great being part of this year’s bash and I look forward to taking part in future rallies,” Victoria said.
Another team was the Three Amigos — according to Peter Street, the fourth member is a spare.
“Over the years, the Three Amigos have raised over $40,000 for the annual event. And of course, we’ll take part in another bash next year as the Three Amigos,” Mr Street said.
In the brief few moments with the Riv,’ Micheal Watt spoke of his love for the Variety Bash and what it means to himself and his team.
“I’ve been doing the bash since 2006, and we’ve raised over $60,000 in that time,” Mr Watt said.
Car 54 was Star Wars, featuring Steve Travis, on his eighth bash, his wife, Natalie, on her fifth and debutante Libby Matheson.
“Once you start, you get hooked and you keep coming back for more,” Mrs Travis said.
Molly MacPherson and Michelle Wright provided breakfast to the teams, with a selection that would make anyone grateful.
“This is our first Variety Bash and it’s very exciting being part of it. The money raised will go to ensure the students receive better sports equipment,” Ms MacPherson said.
Ms Wright said it was a significant day for Bunnaloo.
“The school is amazing, and the students benefit from the money that was raised here today,” she said.
The 2023 NSW/ACT Variety Bash started in Dubbo, with stops in Leeton, Echuca, Narrandera, Goulburn and St Mary’s before it wraps up in Newcastle on Saturday.