Mount Gambier’s Matthew Tully and Liam Fielding are set to embark on an adventure they will never forget as they join 300 other participants in the 2024 Mystery Box Rally to raise money for the Cancer Council.
The rally is described as “the mad baby brother of Shitbox Rally” and although smaller and shorter than its infamous counterpart, teams have no idea where they are headed.
The cars used in the challenge must be older than 25 years with no 4WD or AWD and teams are required to raise a minimum of $4000 to participate in the challenge with an overall goal of $1m raised.
Box Rallies has raised over $41m and is the leading individual fundraiser for the Cancer Council in Australia.
The Mount Gambier duo said the cause is one close to heart as the longtime school friends dedicate it to those who are fighting the hard fight and those who have unfortunately lost the battle to cancer.
“We have had many family members battle cancer, so it is fitting to help raise funds for the Cancer Council,” Mr Tully said.
“We will be travelling in a 1992 EB Ford Falcon which we are currently preparing for the rally and we are looking forward to seeing the Queensland outback.
“We have had a great response from local business from donating goods and services for raffles, and sponsorship, which is helping our fundraising efforts.”
Team “Straight Outta Compton” will hold their next fundraising event on Sunday, February 4 from 5pm-7pm at Kaboom Family Entertainment.
A ticket worth $25 will buy participants unlimited bowling and mini golf with lucky door prizes on offer.
The team said they have other fundraising events in the pipeline including a schnitzel night and Mother’s Day raffle.
Mystery Box Rally founder James Freeman said the challenge was not a race, but a reward for fundraising efforts.
“All our rallies are so much fun, but Mystery Box keeps delivering year after year with more and more people returning to participate,” he said.
“After a warm and amazing Mystery Box Rally in 2023 we are chasing the warmth again with the announcement the 2024 start and finish line is Airlie Beach, Queensland.”
“The position of Airlie Beach gives us a great area to travel for the rally with plenty of amazing bush tracks to explore and country/outback hospitality.
“As with all Mystery Box Rally’s the route is top secret, but I am confident the teams will have an exceptional time over the five day adventure.”