By Alesha Capone
A Werribee couple will drive a 1993 Ford Laser thousands of kilometres through the desert to raise funds for the Cancer Council.
Brendan Andrew and Carmen Green will drive the vehicle – which they have nicknamed Olaf after the snowman from Frozen – a total of 4200 kilometres from the Gold Coast to Alice Springs, via Karumba, from June 5.
They will join hundreds of other motorists for the annual Shitbox Rally, in which participants must drive cars valued at $1000 or less.
Mr Andrew and Ms Green were all set to participate in last year’s rally, but it was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since then, they have raised more than $12,000 for the Cancer Council.
The pair said they plan to continue fundraising until departing for the Gold Coast.
Anyone who donates $20 or more can put a sticker, bearing the name of a loved one affected by cancer, on Olaf’s exterior.
“Also for every $2 people donate, they get to add a song to our playlist for when we have no radio,” Mr Andrew said.
The donor who’s song is playing when the couple finish the rally will receive a small prize.
The couple said they were participating in the Shitbox Rally “because everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer and money raised goes towards support and research to find a cure”.
Ms Green, a breast cancer survivor, said: “On a personal note, to be around people whom have had similar journeys and not be afraid to talk about it, will be great.”
The adventurous pair have adopted the slogan “Trugin on for a cure” as Ms Green is a member of the Truganina Fire Brigade.
Mr Andrew and Ms Green said they would like to thank their sponsors Bulls Mechanics, Hoppers Crossing Roofing and Plumbing and Aqua Tap Plumbing in Point Cook.
“Also a huge thank you to everyone who has donated and supported,” Mr Andrew said.
To donate see: autumn2021.shitboxrally.com.au/trugin-on-for-a-cure or follow their journey
Via Facebook @truginonshitbox2021 or Instagram and Tik Toc @truginonforacureshitbox.
