Local hoteliers have swapped pouring beers for taking on dusty roads during the annual NSW Variety Bash this week.
The event, which started at Dubbo on Sunday 21 May and ends at the Newcastle Foreshore on Saturday 27 May, is a week-long journey made in cars more than 30 years old, across the straights of rural NSW to raise money and awareness for sick and disadvantaged kids.
In 2023, the “Bash” will also travel to Cowra, Leeton, Echuca, Narrandera and Goulburn.
Joining the event for the first time is Speers Point’s Pippi’s at the Point hotelier Stephanie Grace, who’ll partner with Australian Hotels Association (AHA) NSW member liaison officer Jaimie Rayment in the iconic AHA NSW vehicle.
“An all-girl team has never driven the car before so I’m nervous but also excited,” she said.
“I am expecting it to be an adventure – visiting country towns, schools and hotels while creating new memories and meeting new people.”
Ms Grace believes supporting the event is a perfect fit for the hotel industry.
“The Bash provides an opportunity to give back and help raise awareness for Variety’s goal to create a future where every child, regardless of circumstance or ability, can be supported, included and equal,” she said.
As the major sponsor for 11 years, the AHA – Newcastle Hunter Sub-Branch and its members are proud to take part in this iconic event.
“Most years, it raises more than $1 million for kids in need across regional NSW,” Sub-Branch president and long-term “basher” Mick Starkey said.
“So, to support an event like this – and also participate in it – is unlike any other experience.”
Joining Ms Grace are fellow Hunter colleagues Dan Keegan from the Muswellbrook Hotel, Peter Cullen from Bay Hotel – Bonnells Bay, Dan Bennett of the Linga Longa Inn – Gundy and Adam Wedmaier from the Junction Inn – Raymond Terrace.
A homecoming family fun day is planned at the Newcastle Foreshore, between 11am and 3pm, when the participants arrive in the city on 27 May.
The car park on Wharf Road will be closed from 5am until 1pm on Saturday.
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