It is known across the nation for its fun, camaraderie, mechanical creativity and of course, its worthwhile cause.

The Variety Club Bash has become a permanent date on the calendar for O’Connors Case IH. This year will be no different as the red 1974 LTD topped with a miniature tractor flies the flag for the Wimmera Mallee.

This year, the team – Mark O’Connor, Ryan O’Connor and Danny Murray – is setting its GPS for Margaret River in Western Australia.

This is the third year O’Connors have made up part of the infamous rally. But for Mark, Ryan and Danny it will be their first experience of the event which raises much-needed money for the Variety Club.

The convoy meets in Ballarat on August 10 and heads to Mount Gambier. From there, it will snake its way along the Nullarbor and is due in Kalgoorlie on August 17.

The scenery will change from the red, flat plains to the beautiful ‘down south’ of Western Australia before the parade of crazy cars finish in Margaret River on August 20 and enthusiasts spend a well-earned day of rest.

To kick off the Variety Club Bash celebrations Mark O’Connor said he would love to see as many people possible to come along to the dedicated golf day to be held this Sunday.

“Variety does some fantastic work with children to improve their quality of life. And, in the end, the kids are what the bash is all about,” Mr O’Connor said.

“I’d love to see lots of locals come along on Sunday to raise a boot-load of money for this worthwhile and important charity and of course have a great day together.”

Golf day

With the support of Birchip-Watchem Football Club, the four-person ambrose will be at Birchip Golf Club with 10am registrations and an 11am shotgun start. The $20 entry fee includes lunch with all proceeds to Variety, The Children’s Charity.

Team registrations before the event are preferred to Kevin Reid on 0429 990 551, Andrew Lee, 0427 331 161, or Mark O’Connor, 0419 833 218.