The annual Variety – The Children’s Charity of WA, 4WD Adventure set off on Sunday 25 May, for a thrilling, eight-day, off-road tour through the scenic and rugged terrain of the Midwest.
This year’s iconic adventure with purpose took more than 50 participants on some exclusive off-road tracks through Kalbarri, Shark Bay, and Dirk Hartog Island.
Variety WA Chief Executive Officer, Chris Chatterton said he hopes it was the trip of a lifetime: “Our fundraisers have done an amazing job for this year’s event, with just over $253,680 in total funds raised for kids in need.
“This is an incredible effort and proceeds will go toward funding life changing equipment and programs for WA children living with disability, chronic illness or experiencing disadvantage.
“I am hoping that everyone had an amazing, bucket-list trip; whether they chose to do the mini four-day off road adventure or if they are doing the full eight-day trip.
“Several participants have done five, ten and even fifteen different 4WD Adventures, and we are thrilled people continue to come back.
“As an events-based charity, our motoring events are a huge part of how we raise funds, and make what we do possible. Last year we helped more than 26,000 kids across the state thanks to the generous support of our sponsors and fundraisers.
“I’d like to acknowledge the amazing supporters of the 4WD Adventure including CR Kennedy, Mahindra, Perth Detailing Centre, Forester Estate, Midland 4WD Centre, RM Surveys, Sovereign, Europcar, Gold Security Group, Radlink, Maxliner, and Refresh, along with our generous hosts, school partners, and Ocean2Outback Imagery. Thank you for your considerable generosity and for making this experience of a lifetime possible.” He said.
Setting off from Shelter Bay, on Sunday 24 May, this year’s journey took our participants to some of WA’s most remote and remarkable locations — beginning with an unforgettable crossing to Dirk Hartog Island. There, our adventurers explored historic landmarks like Cape Inscription, The Blowholes, and Herald Heights, and took part in our inaugural Fishing Competition, proudly sponsored by Mahindra.
Despite unexpected rainfall, the group still made it to Useless Loop Primary School before detouring to Murchison House Station for bonus track time and scenic river drives.
At Kalbarri Skywalk, participants gathered for a stunning ‘Colours of Kalbarri’ evening sponsored by Forester Estate Winery and hosted by Colleen and Tony Drage of Kalbarri Skywalk Café. A special highlight was the custom artwork by Mauretta Drage, auctioned on the night with proceeds going to Variety WA.
The following day, our school visit to Binnu Primary School (joined by Chapman Valley and Yuna Primary) was made possible thanks to Perth Detailing Centre. The event included music, dancing and a touching tour of the school’s memorial garden in honour of their former principal.
The final leg of the adventure took place at Lynton Station, where participants learned about the site’s convict history before heading into Northampton for the final night celebrations at Railway Tavern.
This event wouldn’t have been possible without the passion and dedication of our participants, volunteers, and Variety WA staff. Thank you for helping us continue to create opportunities for children across Western Australia.
Drivers of all levels come on the 4WD Adventure, which offers different off-road experiences and challenges supported by medics and mechanics as well as award winning chefs and entertainers.
4WD Adventure 2026
The 2026 4WD Adventure will tour the Pilbara from 23-31 May 2026
Reserve your place early: [email protected]
Stay tuned for more information in the coming months!
