We’re Team Taree, and this year we hit the road in Car 2430 – a 1963 EH Holden Station Wagon with a proud history and a heart full of purpose. Backed by our local community and sponsored by some incredible local businesses, we’re honoured to be part of the NSW Variety Bash. While we were driving through the outback on the 2025 NSW Variety Bash our town was devastated by the worst flooding event in history. Many of our sponsors and supporters suffered life changing losses. It was incredibly difficult being away from home during this event but being surrounded by our new Variety Family made things bearable and really drove home the reason we were there in the first place, supporting families and communities that hadn’t been lucky enough to have the opportunities we have had in Taree.
How did you both first get involved with Variety?
It all started when Darren took part in the NSW Variety Adventure Ride. What began as a bit of fun quickly turned into something much deeper. The connection with other participants, the stories shared, and seeing firsthand the difference Variety makes in the lives of kids and families – it really struck a chord.
After that experience, it felt like there was more we could do. So we started talking, dreaming big, and looking for a way to be part of something even bigger. That’s when we found our car – a beautifully built 1963 EH Holden Station Wagon, originally crafted by the legendary Don Ezzy and already a veteran of many Bashes. Taking the wheel of this car felt like taking the baton in a long-standing relay of doing good.
What’s been your most memorable or unexpected fundraising moment?
What really blew us away was how quickly the local Taree business community got behind us. We honestly thought we’d be knocking on doors and making a hard sell. But the moment we mentioned we were doing the Bash with Variety, people were already asking how they could help.
There’s a deep respect for Variety in our region – people know where the money goes, and they trust the impact it has. Business owners told us they were glad to have a way to be involved in something meaningful. That kind of generosity and trust in a good cause is something you never take for granted. It really brought home how lucky we are to live in a town like Taree.
What has been the most rewarding part of your involvement?
It’s hard to put into words just how rewarding this journey has been. Seeing the direct impact – from mobility equipment to educational support – you realise you’re not just raising money; you’re changing lives. There’s something incredibly powerful about that.
But just as special has been the support from home. Friends, family, local businesses – all backing us, cheering us on, and reminding us why we’re doing this. It’s not just our journey; it’s Taree’s.
What’s one tip you’d give to a first-time fundraiser?
Be genuine. Share your “why.” People connect with heart and honesty. You don’t need to have the fanciest event or the biggest network – just start where you are, and speak from the heart. Every raffle ticket, every sausage sizzle, every donation counts.
And lean on your community – people want to help more than you might think. Give them a reason, and they’ll show up.
How do you stay motivated throughout your fundraising efforts?
We stay motivated by remembering who it’s all for – the kids. Whenever we hit a tough patch or feel overwhelmed, we come back to that. Variety changes lives. And being part of that change – even in a small way – makes every late night and early morning worth it.
And honestly, the support from the community keeps us going too. Every “how’s the car coming along?” or “what’s the next fundraiser?” reminds us we’re not doing this alone. It’s a team effort, and we’re so proud to be carrying the flag for Taree.
Whether you’re thinking about joining the Bash, lending a hand as a volunteer, or just looking for a cause worth backing – Variety is it. It’s fun, it’s meaningful, and it truly makes a difference.
We’re proud to be Team Taree, driving Car 2430 with heart, history and a whole lot of hope
