Dick Smith first got this show on the road back in 1985. The Bash, a group of people travelling in old cars from Sydney to Bourke in far west New South Wales, and from Bourke to Burketown in far west North Queensland, raising money for the Variety Children’s Charity, injecting cash along the way into remote Aussie towns well off the beaten track, and having fun – a rare delight Australians bizarrely seem all too keen to avoid.
The first mission raised $250,000. Ever since, the B to B Bash has grown in popularity, with new locations carefully chosen to visit towns in need and ensure passage through breathtaking regions of the nation. Most importantly, since 1985, this unique cross-country quest and the wild adventurers who undertake it has raised more than $230 million to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.
In this year’s B to B Bash, Northern Beaches locals and life-long friends, Sonya Link and Mandy Parker, better known as The Bashful Bees, got behind the wheel of their beloved 1967 Holden HR – which has done more Bashes than both of them before they took ownership – and set off for their respective eighth and ninth B to B journeys.
“In 2006, the company I worked for bought a Bash Car. I was team captain, and I just loved it,” explains Sonya. “The whole point of the event is not just crazy cars kicking up dust. The route is designed to visit the towns where grants have been made, meet the people, give equipment to the kids, see the money in action, connect. It’s really moving.”
The pair may not be the world’s most astute mechanics, their 2022 journey involved winning the coveted “Most Mechanical Problems” award, having a breakdown every single day, but their faith in the 56-year-old beauty was never in doubt. Joined by 210 fellow colourful characters, in 75 revved up stalwart motor vehicles, this year’s Bash took place from 6-16 August, travelling 6,000 kilometres from Mt Panorama in Bathurst to Geraldton on West Australia’s Batavia Coast.
Pressed on what the pair chatted about, Sonya replies, “There’s no way I can ever tell you that…mainly just about life and crap really.” Makes sense. As for mechanical problems, nothing to worry about this year. The Bees had a boot full of spare parts all set, even a distributor at the ready, which came in handy while traversing the Flinders Ranges.
The highlight? “Driving through to Uluru was just insane,” says Sonya. “It was a rare day where we actually managed to get into town before sunset, and as you come round the corner to see the Rock, it was magic.”
The 2024 route has not yet been announced, but without a doubt The Bashful Bees will once again be along for the ride. “I’m hooked on it,” admits Sonya. “I started in 2006, had a ten-year gap while overseas, plus Covid, but next year will be my 10th Bash, can’t wait. The event’s tag line is, ‘You’ve got to do it’, which is so spot on. Support such a great charity, see the country, and have a ridiculously fun time too.”
Get involved
If you’ve ever considered getting involved in Australia’s most loved charity motoring event, now is the time to sign up to the 2024 Variety B to B Bash. Experience the adventure of a lifetime while supporting kids in need. Visit fundraise.varietynswact.org.au for all info