Country dads on a mission to raise funds for SA’s sick, disadvantaged and special needs kids
A 60-year-old XP Falcon, affectionately known as Elmo, is lining up for yet another charitable trek through outback Australia, all in the name of giving to SA’s sick kids, as part of the 2024 SA Variety Bash.
The crew behind one of the state’s “most bashed cars”, is a group of county dads, passionate about their mission and ready to get behind the wheel to celebrate the $51,010 they’ve raised for sick, disadvantaged and special needs kids this year.
Before they hit the road on Saturday, August 10, for a seven day, action-packed adventure from the Riverland to the Gold Coast, a proudly sponsored Elmo, complete with a newly modified air ventilation system (a 4×4 snorkel), will receive the honour of a shiny golden door, in recognition of the team’s outstanding fundraising efforts.
Co-driver, Charlie Luckraft, who runs the award-winning southern Flinders tourist station, Bendleby Ranges, said this year’s quest for Variety was particularly important given the State’s current economic situation, and the high needs of charities like Variety.
“Cost of living is high, no one has spare cash, charities are receiving a smaller contribution than they usually would on an annual basis,” he said.
“But the amount of people in need of help is increasing in demand. There’s not as much cash to go around, but event in tough times, when we reach into our pockets and help others, it’s just a really good feeling.”
Charlie, along with Pinery Farmer, Kelvin Tiller, is taking part in the bash for the second year, welcoming newcomer, Brad Saal from Appila to the team.
With loads of support from their families – from folding raffle tickets to admin, sponsor letters and event coordination, Team Elmo has put in a momentous effort during the fundraising process, including hosting the big Bendleby Bash in blistering March long-weekend conditions.
“We’ve really worked hard for to raise the dollars we have. We’ve tried every angle we can,” Charlie said. “Bendleby Bash had people out enjoying live music, food and fun in 40-degree heat. The year before we held it in April and it was two degrees,” Charlie said.
Despite the hundreds of hours spent rattling tins and prepping Elmo to withstand the harsh Aussie outback conditions, this passionate team is already looking ahead to 2025, with their sights set on raising a staggering $100,000 for SA’s sick, disadvantaged and special needs kids.
In 2022-24 Variety SA granted more than six million dollars to help kids in need through 244 grants, helping out 88,196 Aussie children.
“I’ve seen firsthand the work Variety has done in a number of local communities.”
“Every little bit of fundraising helps make this happen. Even a small contribution, whether it’s putting a couple of coins in a tin as you walk past.”
With Elmo stickered up with sponsors, purring like a kitten and fitted with an unique new horn sure to make the wildlife look twice, the team is pumped and ready for take-off.
“The Bash is a celebration for everyone whose worked hard to raise funds and an opportunity for Variety to thank the entrants. It’s such a fantastic and uplifting experience. There’s lots of camaraderie, mixed in with some fantastically smart and witty people. There’s always a lot of enjoyment derived from the event. ”
To make a donation on behalf of Team Elmo, to Variety, click here
