Variety – the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT has announced a special one-year-only 2026 Variety Backyard Bash, opening the event to drivers of all types of vehicles for the first time as it adapts to the ongoing fuel crisis.
The six-day fundraising convoy will run from Sunday, August 9, to Friday, August 14, travelling from Bella Vista to Bathurst via Mudgee, Dubbo, Griffith, Albury and Cowra, with organisers aiming to raise $500,000 to support children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.
The Backyard Bash has been introduced following the cancellation of the 2026 Variety NSW Bash and B to B Bash. While maintaining the event’s trademark fun and fundraising spirit, this year’s format features shorter daily drives to encourage participants to spend more time supporting businesses in regional communities.
In a major change, the traditional requirement for vehicles to be at least 25 years old has been dropped, allowing any Australian driver with any suitable vehicle to take part.
Variety NSW/ACT Chief Executive Officer Tony Warner said the new format would make the event more accessible while continuing to deliver much-needed support to children and families across New South Wales and the ACT.
Along the route, Variety will also distribute $25,000 in grants, with five remote and regional schools each receiving $5,000 to support local students. Funds raised will help provide mobility equipment, scholarships, educational programs, grants and inclusive experiences for children across the state.
Registrations for the 2026 Variety Backyard Bash are now open.