The RACQ and Excavation Equipment Great Western Road Trip hit the road again this year, marking its fifth annual event. The event features a 36-car convoy and has already raised over $70,000, with funds directly supporting the new Regional Cancer Centre in Toowoomba and rural hospitals across the Darling Downs region. This five-day adventure began on Thursday, 26 September, and sees participants embarking on a secret route through the hidden gems of the Darling Downs, raising vital funds along the way.
Alison Kennedy, CEO of Toowoomba Hospital Foundation, spoke about the importance of this year’s event:
“Over the years, the participants have been so, so generous, and we've raised over $300,000 in the last four years. This year, before we even left, our tally has exceeded $70,000, which is absolutely amazing. We've got some really competitive people coming this year, and their tallies and fundraising pages are going up daily. We can’t wait to see the end result."
Kennedy added that participants have embraced the spirit of the event more than ever:
"Yeah, more competitors, more cars, and I think even the fancy dress! People have turned up today already dressed up, ready for a great trip. Normally, they would just get dressed up on Saturday night, but now they’re coming fully dressed, really excited. Their cars are dressed up too. Each year it just gets more and more exciting."
This year, the funds raised will be split between the new Regional Cancer Centre and rural hospitals. Kennedy expressed her excitement for the impact of these funds:
“We’re very excited about the Regional Cancer Centre. At the moment, we're over $653,000, and that’s in a six-month period since we launched earlier this year. There are so many events and beautiful people in our community donating right now, so our $10 million goal is getting closer. It is a big goal, but we truly believe we will get there.”
The RACQ and Excavation Equipment Great Western Road Trip continues to offer not just an adventure, but a chance for families, businesses, and the community to come together for an important cause.
Learn more about the Regional Cancer Centre or donate here.
