The dust has settled, and our gear’s finally been unpacked, after an unforgettable week on the tracks for the 2025 Variety WA 4WD Adventure. As proud sponsors (and very willing participants!), M4C.au was right there in the thick of it as we crossed sand, bush, riverbeds, and outback roads – all in the name of supporting WA kids through Variety.
Here’s our take on one of the best weeks on (and off) the road we’ve had this year!
A big thank-you to Ocean 2 OutBack Imagery for the photos.
Kicking Off in Style – Dirk Hartog Island
The journey started with something truly special: a historic drive on Dirk Hartog Island, made possible by CR Kennedy. From the moment we rolled onto the barge, we knew we were in for something epic. After arriving, the crew headed to Cape Inscription, The Blowholes, and Herald Heights – the kind of remote spots you only dream about driving to.
This year also saw the launch of Variety’s first-ever Fishing Competition, backed by premier partner Mahindra – and it was a cracker of a time. Big thanks to Keiren and Tory and everyone at Dirk Hartog Island Eco Lodge for looking after us so well. From the scenery to the service, it was first-class all the way.
Rain, Reroutes & Remote Schools
Of course, no real adventure goes exactly to plan – and incoming rain made sure we had to stay on our toes. Before the tracks closed, we squeezed in a heartfelt visit to Useless Loop Primary School, where participants had the privilege of meeting the students and presenting Variety grant cheques. Shoutout to Perth Detailing Centre, who sponsored the school visit and also had boots on the ground, taking part in the event.
As Steep Point became inaccessible, we rerouted to Murchison House Station. It was a happy detour – giving us a fresh mix of riverbeds and inland tracks after days of beach driving. There’s something special about adapting on the fly with a great bunch of people and a solid rig under you.
Colours of Kalbarri: A Night to Remember
The Skywalk at Kalbarri was the perfect setting for the Colours of Kalbarri evening – sponsored by Forester Estate Winery and hosted by Colleen Drage and Tony Wilton of the Kalbarri Skywalk Café.
Colleen shared the story of her family’s connection to the land, and her daughter Mauretta Drage created a beautiful custom artwork that was auctioned off to support Variety WA. A Jeroboam of Forester Estate wine also went under the hammer, raising $800 on the night.
Binnu and Beyond – A Break in the Weather, A Boost for the Spirit
As we made our way inland, we arrived at Binnu Primary School – joined by students from Chapman Valley and Yuna – where rain gave us a rare break long enough to enjoy music and dancing with local performer Libby (who’d also greeted us on Dirk earlier in the week).
We were moved by the school’s memorial garden, a touching tribute to beloved principal Ben Baker, and it was an honour to be part of delivering Variety grants to these regional schools. These stops are a humbling reminder of why we do what we do.
Lynton Station & The Final Night in Northampton
The last leg of the adventure took us to the historic Lynton Station, where our host Jenny shared insights into the area’s convict-era past. After one last blast through the tracks – and a killer lunch by Car & Lisa – we pulled into Railway Tavern Northampton for the Final Night Function.
A massive shoutout to Ricky and the Railway Tavern team – they were absolute legends, and their support made the finish line feel like a proper celebration.
Celebrating Milestones & Mates
We cheered on the milestone legends:
- Jeff Leach – 10 years
- Geoff Robb – 15 years
- Clive Hartz – 20 years
And gave a well-deserved round of applause to this year’s award winners:
- James Kelly (Car #007) – Highest Fundraiser and Best Presented
- Car #15 – Steve & Tricia Corry-Thomas – Ian Diffen Trophy for Spirit of Variety
- Car #888 – Piston Broke Award
- Car #464 – Best Gear (for the on-the-fly radiator repair!)
- Our Mag 4 Legends – Cars #000, #75, #15 & #007
A Massive Result – Over $253K Raised!
In the end, more than $253,680.78 was raised for Variety – the Children’s Charity WA. That money goes directly toward helping WA kids who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disability. It’s an incredible result, and we’re proud to have played a small part in it.
From the team at M4C.au, thank you to every participant, official, volunteer, and sponsor who made the event possible – and especially to our fellow supporters:
- CR Kennedy
- Mahindra
- Perth Detailing Centre
- Forester Estate Winery
- RM Surveys
- Radlink
- Gold Security Group
- Refresh
Looking Ahead: Pilbara 2026
The next adventure is already calling! In 2026, we head to the Pilbara! Expect red dust, rocky ridges, and some of the most remote country WA has to offer. Find out more at varietywa4wd.com.au
If you’ve ever thought about jumping in on one of these trips, start getting ready now. You won’t regret it.
Until next time – keep it dirty, keep it moving, and keep giving back.
M4C.au – Built for Adventure. Driven by Purpose.