DRESSED as Batman’s nemesis The Joker, Mount Gambier residents Ian Weber and Jason Beveridge will again show their support for children in need as they set off on the South Australia Variety Bash this weekend.
Travelling from Mount Barker, the pair will join hundreds of other participants in the 1875km drive to the Blue Lake city.
Passionate about helping others and ensuring children who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs have the same opportunities as those more fortunate, Mr Weber said Variety was an organisation close to his heart.
“My daughter is handicapped, so we’re in that world all the time and see families and the difficulties they are faced with,” he said.
Taking part in fundraising for the children’s charity since 2001, Mr Weber and his team have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for those in need, this year alone reaching a total of $70,000.
“The bash is really the reward for the fundraising efforts made over the year,” he said.
“The Mount Gambier community has been a great support – for a small place it is amazing how much has been donated, it is a very generous community.”
Celebrating his 17th year at the event, Mr Weber said he was excited by the fact it would finish in Mount Gambier for the first time this year.
“It will bring a lot of economic value to the city and give the people of Mount Gambier a chance to see how their donations do really make a difference in the community,” he said.
“It is a very rewarding thing to be involved in and can be quite emotional at times.
“For us, it is a way to share our good fortune.”
Fellow participant Jason Beveridge said the South Australian Variety Bash has developed an excellent reputation throughout the country.
“It is known as one of the best due to the terrain and the social aspect,” he said.
“Those involved have also consistently raised one of the highest amounts of money in Australia.”
Receiving a great amount of support from not only the general public but businesses, Mr Weber extended his thanks to those who have contributed over the years.
The Variety Bash will finish in Mount Gambier on August 19 with a presentation of a Sunshine Coach to Melaleuca Park Primary School outside the old town hall at 3pm.
“We encourage everyone to get to the finish line next Saturday – the kids and the big kids will have a ball,” Mr Weber said.
