FAQs
Taking Part
What is the Variety Bash?
Australia’s Largest and Longest-Running Charity Motoring Event
Much imitated, never bettered - the Variety Bash is the original outback motoring adventure.
It’s not a race, and it’s not a rally. As Dick Smith put it back in 1985, it’s simply “a drive in the outback with a few mates” - all in 25+ year-old cars, decked out with a great theme, and all for a great cause.
The Bash is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the back roads and hidden corners of regional Australia, while supporting Variety – the Children’s Charity. Along the way, you’ll stop in at local schools and communities to see your fundraising in action — delivering educational, health and mobility equipment that makes a real difference for kids who need it.
It’s also a week (or more) of pure fun - from themed nights and road games to outrageous outfits and unexpected moments you’ll be talking about for years.
The route and destination change every year, and so does the length - full details are announced once finalised.
No matter where we’re headed, your safety is our top priority. All Bash cars are tracked daily, with officials in constant contact via HF radio and satellite phone. Our mobile workshop team and paramedics travel with the convoy, with links to RFDS and local emergency services.
What car can I take?
Vehicle models must be 25 years or older. Any car for the Variety Bash must have a body plate identifying it as being manufactured 25 years ago. Please note that some run on models will be accepted subject to approval by Variety Victoria. 4wd vehicles may be accepted but must be 30 years or older.
Do I have to have a theme or dress up?
That’s totally up to you and your crew - but we highly encourage it! Costumes and car themes are a big part of what makes the Bash legendary.
We stop into schools and community groups along the way, and the bright cars and dress-ups are always a hit with the kids. Whether you go all out or keep it simple, you’re more than welcome - just bring your sense of fun.
Past crews have gone all-in as everything from The Flintstones and Ghostbusters to tradies, pirates, lifeguards, and giant bananas. If it makes people smile, it works.
Is there an age restriction?
All participants must be 18 years or older to take part.
If you're keen to take your kids, check out our sister event, the Variety Brats Bash!
How many people in a car crew?
Every Variety Bash car needs a minimum of two people - a driver and a navigator. The maximum is whatever your vehicle is legally built to carry.
Just keep in mind: the more people, the more gear. Make sure you’ve got room for your crew and your luggage when picking the size of your crew.
Do I need a Working With Children Check (WWCC)?
Yes! As a child safe organisation, this one is a non-negotiable for all Variety Motoring Event entrants. Your WWCC will need to be submitted prior to leaving. If you haven’t already got a WWCC, it can take up to 6 weeks so please apply soon. Applications are free and easy to process online here.
What about luggage?
We get it - there’s only so much you can squeeze into an old car packed with people. That’s why a support truck travels with the Bash and meets the convoy at each overnight stop.
If you’ve got extra gear like camping kit, swags or extra bags, you can book space on the truck for a small additional cost. Just note - vehicle spare parts and tyres must be carried in your car.
We’ll share full details, including drop-off locations and costs, in the lead-up to the event.
What if my car breaks down?
We travel with several Mobile Workshop Crews, including a tow-truck. That means we’ve got highly experienced mechanics to assist you with any automotive issues you might run into on the road.
We don't leave anyone behind.
What does it cost?
Here’s a breakdown of what it costs to take part in the Variety Bash:
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$880 entry/registration fee (incl. GST) per car
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Minimum fundraising of $5,000 per car for first-time entrants (Rookies)
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Minimum fundraising of $7,000 per car for returning entrants
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Public Liability Insurance of approx. $45 per car (incl. GST)
Provisions Levy
Covers meals, car decals, entertainment, event merchandise and more - approx. $950–$1,450 per person (incl. GST) depending on the destination. Final amount is confirmed around one month before the event.
Accommodation
Accommodation is booked and paid for by participants. Costs will vary based on your choice - from camping and caravan parks to hotels and motels. We’ll provide a list of recommended options once the overnight stops are confirmed.
How is accommodation organised?
We always let you know the best places to stay in town as soon as the overnight stops on our itinerary are announced. Accomodation in each location can vary from hotel/motel, bed & breakfast, cabins, caravans, hostels and sometimes we even camp out under the stars!
Our helpful Variety Brats Bash Committee take some of the hard work out of it and book select accommodation on your behalf. We’ll advise of costs in advance. As for meals, our Committee and Motoring Events Manager arrange for local organisations to cater for our crew. This ranges from restaurants and pubs to local community groups like the Lions Club.
Can I bring my pet/animal?
Unfortunately, animals are not allowed on the Variety Brats Bash, unless they are an assistance animal (e.g. Guide Dog).
Where does the fundraising money go?
All money raised from the event goes to supporting kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have additional needs through Variety – the Children’s Charity Victoria. Variety Victoria are registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and have been delivering vital support to kids across the country for more than 40 years. During the event, you’ll get to be a part of some very special grant presentations out on the road and witness your fundraising impact first-hand.
How do I fundraise?
The most common way to raise money is through fundraising events such as dinners, trivia nights, golf days, etc. You can also get out in your community and shake tins, put skills to use in exchange for cash or even run sausage sizzles! Many crews also approach businesses to sponsor their car on the event. Once registered, you can find lots of tips to assist with fundraising in your dashboard. The Variety Victoria team is always on deck to support your fundraising journey.
Can I use fundraising money to cover my event costs?
No. Fundraising dollars cannot be used to fund your costs in the Variety Bash. Fundraising cannot cover the registration fee, meals, accommodation or costs of your car. Individual accommodation, refreshments, merchandise, fuel costs, mechanical repairs, car shipping and other out of pocket expenses are at your own expense and should be considered in your budget when preparing for the event.
Got a different question?
Fundraising
How are the funds raised used?
Funds raised support Variety - the Children's Charity to provide life-changing equipment and grants to kids living with disadvantage or experiencing disadvantage or illness.
Our support includes items like wheelchairs and communication devices, education programs, scholarships, and support of organisations and schools for things like inclusive play equipment.
Variety Victoria are registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission and have been delivering vital support to kids across the country for 50 years.
During the event, you’ll get to be a part of some very special grant presentations out on the road and witness your fundraising impact first-hand.
How do I get donations?
The number one reason people donate? Someone asked. So don’t be shy - share your fundraising page and let your mates, family, and work crew know why you're hitting the road for Variety. Every dollar raised helps kids in need - and even small donations stack up fast.
You’ll get your own fundraising page when you register, so post it, text it, talk it up!
Hot tips for boosting your total
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Ask your workplace - many offer donation matching
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Host a fundraiser - think trivia nights, dinners, raffles, golf days or auctions
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Get out and about - run a BBQ, shake a tin, offer a service (yep, Bash car washing counts)
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Hit up local businesses - many crews secure car sponsorships to support their fundraising
There’s no one way to do it - just pick what suits you, have a crack, and don’t forget: we’re here to help if you need it.
How do people donate and support my car?
Your Fundraising Page = Your Best Mate
As soon as you sign up, your personal fundraising page is good to go. Supporters can donate directly to you or your team — all you need to do is share the link.
Use the email template in your dashboard or post it on socials to start spreading the word.
You can also set up a Facebook fundraiser straight from your dashboard, and any donations made there will automatically count toward your goal.
Need a hand getting started? Check out our Top Tips and Resources pages for fundraising ideas, tools and templates to help you hit your target.
How do I set up a linked Facebook fundraiser?
Facebook fundraising can significantly boost your efforts. On average, participants have raised $1,500 more through this method. Here’s how to get started:
- Log in to you Dashboard
- Use your individual page for fundraising as all funds will feed up to your Car page.
- Create Your Fundraiser: Click on the "Create a Facebook Fundraiser" (the big blue button on your cover image)
- Follow the Prompts: Go through the setup process.
- Go Live: Share your new fundraiser on Facebook!
Do you have any fundraising tips?
- Download our Motoring Events Fundraising Guide
- Set Up Your Fundraising Page
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- Personalise your page with photos and your story to engage supporters.
- Clearly explain why you are participating and supporting Variety the Children's Charity.
- Download Our Resource Kit
- Access valuable resources and templates to help with your fundraising efforts. The kit includes email templates, social media graphics, and fundraising tips.
- Leverage Social Media
- Share your fundraising page on all your social media platforms.
- Regularly update your followers with your progress and upcoming events.
- Use relevant hashtags, such as #varietyvic to increase visibility.
- Email Campaigns
- Send personalised emails to friends, family, and colleagues, explaining why you’re participating and how they can help.
- Use the pre-written email templates from the Dashboard to save time.
- Engage Your Workplace
- Ask your employer about matching donations.
- Share your fundraising efforts with colleagues and ask them to spread the word.
- Host Events
- Organise online or in-preson events like trivia nights, garage sales, sausage sizzles and more (there are ideas in your welcome pack).
- Thank Your Supporters
- Show appreciation by sending thank-you notes or emails to your donors.
- Publicly acknowledge their support on your social media or training diary.
- Collaborate with Local Businesses
- Reach out to local businesses for sponsorship or to host fundraising events.
- Offer to promote their business in return for their support.
- Stay Persistent and Positive
- Fundraising can take time, so keep reaching out and sharing your passion for the cause.
- Celebrate small wins and keep your supporters motivated with your enthusiasm.
By following these tips and utilising the resources available in our kit, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your fundraising goals and making a significant impact.
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How do I keep my supporters updated?
Keep Your Supporters in the Loop
Let your mates, family, and sponsors follow along as you prep, plan, and hit the road for the Variety Bash. Here’s how to keep them updated - and remind them why you’re doing it for the kids:
Pre-Journey Prep Diary
Your personal blog (aka your prep diary) lives on your “My Page” in the fundraising hub. Use it to share your progress - whether you’re planning fundraisers, picking costumes or decking out your Bash car. Sponsors love seeing what they’re supporting, so keep it updated!
Email Straight from Your Dashboard
Head to “Get Support” in your fundraising hub to email your contacts directly - no messing around. You can also share your fundraising page with a few clicks straight to social media.
Share the Journey on Socials
Post updates, pics, and milestones on your socials and tag @varietyvic to show the world why you're hitting the road for Variety. It’s a great way to drum up more support and get your story out there.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, all donations over $2.00 are tax-deductible. A tax receipt will be sent to your supporters via email.
Do you have anything I can post on social media?
Yes! You’ll find heaps of ready-to-go graphics, images and templates on our Fundraising Resources page - perfect for social media, emails or event promos.
Just don’t forget to include your fundraising page link every time you post, so your supporters know exactly where to donate.
I'm struggling to fundraise, can you help?
Absolutely! Contact the motoring events team anytime on (03) 8698 3900 or via motoringevents@varietyvic.org.au
Can I use fundraising money to cover my event costs?
No – fundraising dollars must go directly to Variety and can’t be used to cover your own event costs. That means things like your registration fee, provisions levy, car expenses, meals, accommodation, fuel, merch, mechanical repairs, car transport and any other out-of-pocket costs are your responsibility.
Make sure you factor these into your budget when planning for the Bash - and if you’re not sure, just ask. We’re here to help.
About Variety
What is Variety - the Children's Charity?
Funds raised support Variety - the Children's Charity Variety – the Children’s Charity has a network of 40 offices in 14 countries, and many millions of individual children around the world live a better life because of the generosity of Variety’s communities of supporters.
How many kids does Variety support?
Last financial year Variety impacted 17,010 Victorian children and 181,281 Australian children with
7,381 Individual and Community Grants provided and
28 Variety Heart Scholarships issued.
How does Variety support kids?
Variety - the Children's Charity Victoria help kids who are experiencing disability, disadvantage or illness.
Variety provides support to families and organisations through providing grants for a range of equipment, such as wheelchairs or all-abilities playgrounds to provide practical help to kids, schools and organisations in need.
We run programs to educate and empower kids that are falling through the cracks.
We give scholarships to encourage the talents of kids living with disadvantage or disability.
And last but certainly not least, we hold kids events to bring joy, light and laughter to children in need and their families.
Make sure you check out our Top Tips and Resources pages to help you get started!
How can I get in touch?
Start Your Engines
Get your mates together and sign up to drive change for kids in need
Join the Support Crew
Make a direct donation or sponsor a friend in their drive to help kids
