MOUNT Gambier’s main street was full of some interesting characters over the weekend with the likes of The Joker, The Muppets and even a few boxing kangaroos creating excitement among the South East community on Saturday afternoon.
Travelling to the Blue Lake city from Mount Barker with the SA Variety Bash, the group of around 300 participants faced windy, rainy and muddy conditions in their beaten up old vehicles over the eight-day journey to celebrate their fundraising efforts over the year.
Throughout their challenging yet emotional adventure, the dedicated community members from across the state also gifted a variety of grants to schools and families in need.
Raising a total of $70,000 over the year with thanks to donations from the Mount Gambier community, local participants Ian Weber and Jason Beveridge were thrilled to do their part to help disadvantaged and disabled children throughout the city.
“It has been a ball – I would say it was the best Bash I have ever been on,” Mr Weber told The Border Watch on Saturday.
“From dust to mud, it was great to finally finish in the most beautiful city in beautiful sunny weather – although we did have to limp over the finish line after having some engine troubles.
“To be able to celebrate with the people of Mount Gambier who have been so generous with their donations was the perfect way to end the journey.”
Feeling very thankful to have been involved in the Bash, Mr Beveridge said it was an amazing and emotional journey.
“It was especially emotional when we were in Keith and the principal of a local school made a speech – it was very moving and a lot of ‘Bashers’ had tears in their eyes,” he said.
“I think it made us realise just how much of an impact the money we have all raised makes on so many people throughout the state.”
On their way to the Blue Lake city, the 100 trusty vehicles were treated to a wash by Tarpeena Country Fire Service volunteers at a community event in the small town before they crossed the finish line in front of hundreds of welcoming locals.
Variety chairman Brenton “Rambo” Ramsey was thankful to see so many people out supporting the event and the dedicated participants.
“We didn’t come to Mount Gambier by accident – we have had fantastic support out of Mount Gambier for a number of years with our Bash cars and when I was looking at the route for this year, this city was certainly the place I wanted to come so we could repay some of the loyalty our Bashers and this community has shown us,” he said.
“Thank you very much to the Bashers for what you do for the children of South Australia – this bunch of people are the greatest people you could ever meet, they are beautiful souls who work tirelessly all year just to give kids a better chance at life.
“Together we have pulled it off with another very successful Variety Bash.”
