Our director, Dan O’Loughlin, is getting behind the wheel (literally!) as he embarks on the incredible Variety Bash to raise vital funds for Aussie kids who need it most.

For those not familiar, the Variety Bash is Australia’s longest-running charity motoring event — but it’s far from your average road trip. Over eight epic days, Dan and his team will traverse some of Australia’s most rugged (and breathtaking) outback roads, all while raising much-needed funds to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage, or living with a disability. 🚙💨

“And it’s also a great excuse to catch up with mates I don’t get to see much of these days.”

Now a parent himself, the cause hits particularly close to home.

“Personally, having anything associated with kids’ health hits hard now that I’m a parent,” he shares. “You realise just how much these support services mean to families.”

Dan is proudly part of a team called “The A-Team / Lifesavers Downunder”, made up of 10 big-hearted adventurers who all share the same mission: to make a real difference for kids in need. Together, their team is aiming to raise a massive $50,000 - with Dan personally pledging to raise $2,000 to this incredible cause.

But of course, none of this can happen without the generous support of friends, family, colleagues, and the broader community.

“The energy of the group is fantastic,” Dan says. “Although they’ve made it clear I’ll be in the backseat the whole way to Darwin!”

Variety – the Children's Charity has been helping Australian kids for over 45 years, providing life-changing support through things like mobility equipment, educational aids, therapy, and experiences that bring joy to children and families facing daily challenges. The funds raised during the Bash go directly towards helping kids gain independence, confidence, and access to the support they need to thrive.

In true Variety Bash spirit, it’s not just about the fundraising — it's about fun, mateship, and making a real difference, one kilometre at a time. Throughout the journey, Dan and the A-Team will be visiting local communities, spreading plenty of smiles and a little bit of friendly mischief along the way.

“I can’t wait to see the centre of Australia — I’ve never been there before,” Dan says. “Although I’m not exactly looking forward to sleeping in a swag, which will also be a first!”