Ann Tanks from Camp Quality with Team Illawarra's Norm Rees (both in front). Picture: SYLIVA LIBER
Forget cruise control and heated seats - these intrepid off-road adventurers prefer madcap over mod-cons.
Four Illawarra vehicles will hit the road this week to represent the region in the annual Camp Quality esCarpade rally to help raise money for kids living with cancer.
Setting off from Newcastle, Team Illawarra will tackle the back tracks through country NSW on a 4500-kilometre trek to Canberra via Mudgee, Forbes, Griffith, Wagga Wagga and Tumut.
Team member Norm Rees has previously taken part in a medical support role but for the second year running will take the wheel as a regular participant.
While the ultimate goal is to raise a serious amount of money, the teams manage to squeeze in plenty of fun and mischief along the way.
Mr Rees said they would give talks to schools, accept the odd water fight challenge, and take part in some wacky activities along the way.
"You have a ton of fun, it's an absolute hoot," he said.
Although the team has been around for about 10 years, Mr Rees said this year the individual members had decided to officially join forces.
"Whilst it was made up of a number of different cars we've actually formalised it, put the banner out and all of our fund-raising efforts are joined now," he said.
Money raised goes towards running camps and fun activities for kids living with cancer.
Up to 70 cars will take part in the rally, which is now in its 21st year.
To support the esCarpade visit www.mycampquality.org.au/escarpade/ and search for Team Illawarra.
