Each year, TasBash brings back a cherished childhood memory for Kate Crawford—the joy of seeing the wild, whimsical, and magically themed cars. Even if just for a moment, they offer an escape from reality, bringing smiles and happiness to both kids and adults alike.
At just 7-years-old, Kate’s world changed forever when her mother, Mandi, passed away unexpectedly in her sleep. Left to navigate life without his partner, Kate’s father, Lindsay, found himself raising Kate and his 12-year-old son on his own at only 35 years of age.
Back in 1993, as TasBash was underway, some thoughtful Bashers heard about what had happened and the decision was made to re-route the Bash through Lindsay’s farm in Levendale. “For just a few hours, we were kids again,” Kate recalled, “in a world where we had to grow up overnight and face the harsh realities of death, grief, and loss.”
Then, in 1999, a magical new addition joined the Variety TasBash – Puff the Magic Dragon, Car #62! This whimsical creation, a 1962 Dodge Phoenix topped with the first of two Puff designs, was brought to life by John (Simo) and Jan (Jammy) Simpson. Over the years, they were joined by crew members Denise, Jim, and occasionally Lynn.
Simo also served on the Board of Variety Tasmania during his time with the Bash and mapped out route instructions alongside other officials over the years.
After a career change in November 2017, Kate stepped away from Variety Tasmania but remained closely connected, hopeful that she could one day return and contribute again in some way.
In June 2021, during a Bash social dinner, Simo approached her with a playful yet meaningful question: “When are you going to pick up the dragon?” He and Jammy had decided that the 2021 Bash would be their final event. That year, they joined the Bash once more – this time travelling alongside Puff the Magic Dragon, but not in him.
In just 12 weeks, the new crew; James, Kate, Tori & Claire, booked their accommodation, paid their fees, raised the minimum fundraising through some generous sponsorships, and created a social media presence for Team Puff – along with a logo, and branded clothing! Puff’s floor needed some attention, so this was fixed (thanks Luke), and they formed a much-valued relationship with their mechanic – La Macchina!
While Variety offers vital financial support and does incredible work across communities, for Kate, TasBash is something even more—it’s a shining light of happiness, cutting through even the darkest times, and the ultimate way to give back.
In 2022, the Puff crew grew with the arrival of a baby dragon named Jimmy—affectionately known as Lil Puff. At just two and a half years old, he had already completed three TasBash events!
In 2024, Puff proudly celebrated 25 years of TasBash adventures. It was during this milestone that James and Kate, in consultation with Simo, made the heartfelt decision to retire Puff.
The legacy continues in 2025 with a new chapter: Puff Junior. Inspired by Puff, chosen by Simo, and dedicated in Jammy’s honour, Puff Junior is the son of Puff—and ready to carry the spirit forward. Let the next adventure begin!
Variety has positively impacted more than two million children and their families – supporting children by providing funding for mobility equipment, therapy, medical services, educational resources, and more.