What began as a simple outback adventure between mates has become one of Australia’s most iconic charity motoring events.
The Variety Bash was founded in 1985 by Dick Smith, who led a group of friends on a journey known as the “Bourke to Burketown Bash”.
Built around the idea of having fun while raising funds for kids in need, the event quickly captured the hearts of Australians across the country.
The Bash is an eight day drive in the country with your mates. It is NOT a race or rally, it is a madcap eveånt designed to put the fun into fundraising. Vehicles must be in standard condition and shall be models with a minimum age of 25 years. The drivers and crews, however, are anything but standard issue, with most Bashers following the one major rule – don’t takeit seriously and have fun!
The Bash today has not changed from its original concept. It began in SA in 1989 and has seen Bashers travel through much of our beautiful country during this time.
Over the past 38 years, the SA Bash alone has raised in excess of $56.5 million (net) for South Australian kids who are sick, experiencing disadvantaged or living with disability.
The SA Variety Bash route and destination change each year. The Variety Bash has an exemplary safety record. All cars are tracked during the day by officials, who are in contact via radio and Starlink. The Variety Bash has its own team of medics and has full contact with hospitals, motor workshops and local authorities. In addition, all cars are checked over prior to the event, and a team of Mobile Workshop mechanics attend the event to assist entrants with car problems.
Want in? Sign up, do up a 25+ year-old car, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
Where have we been?
Event History
1989 Adelaide - Port Lincoln 57 Cars, Chair: Jack Waters
1990 Glenelg - Ceduna Cars: 75, Chair: John Garland
