It all began in 1985...
The Variety Bash started in 1985, when entrepreneur and adventurer Dick Smith took a group of intrepid motorists from Bourke, New South Wales to Bourketown, Queensland in old cars, raising $250,000 for charity along the way.
Dick had friends from all walks of life – from multi-millionaires to battlers – and the event was his idea of a great equalizer. Touted as “a drive in the outback with a few mates”, Dick made sure everyone was on a level playing field – all cars had to be over 30 years old and non-performance modified, a sentiment the Variety Bash retains today.
The Bash is not a race or a rally. The single most significant rule of the Bash is to relax, enjoy the Australian Outback and help raise funds for kids in need!
Take a look at what went down on the very first Variety Bash...
Following the success in NSW, it wasn't long before the Bash expanded and each state created their own event.
In 1991, the Variety Vic Bash was born.
Thanks to a crew of passionate people, 1991 was the year Variety Victoria had their first ever Bash. Going from 'Heart to Heart' the event travelled 3,550 kms from Melbourne to Uluru, with 27 cars in tow, raising $20,000. Three original event entrants are still part of the Variety Vic Bash today!
