Variety Vic Bash - Bringing smiles to children's faces

Earlier this year, Mitchell Wenn, Upstream Electrical & Instrumentation Maintenance Technician, along with three of his mates, participated in the annual Variety Vic Bash event, helping to donate goods to children in need. The Variety Vic Bash is Australia’s longest-running charity motoring event and the largest annual fundraiser for Variety – The Children’s Charity Victoria. It has raised more than $200 million dollars since it first began in 1985, delivering grants to schools and organisations along the way.

This year, more than 100 cars kicked off the event in Melbourne, travelling through West Gippsland, Phillip Island, Shepparton, and Benalla before making their way past areas in New South Wales and then finishing off in the Gold Coast. Over a span of 10 days, participants visited 40 schools and donated items including push bikes, Lego, and iPads.

When asked what drove Mitch to participate in the Bash, he commented, “I believe in the power of collective action to create positive change in the lives of children facing challenges. This experience has not only given me a sense of personal fulfillment, but it has also inspired me to continue advocating for and supporting these important causes.”

Esso Australia helped kickstart Mitch’s fundraising efforts by generously donating $2,000. Mitch and his mates managed to raise a whopping total of $31,000, exceeding their goal of $10,000.

“It was great seeing the children’s faces light up when we handed them the donations. I want to say a big thank you to Esso and the other generous companies and individuals who donated to our fundraising effort,” Mitch commented.

It’s humbling to see team members like Mitch dedicate their time and effort towards events like the Variety Vic Bash, helping to make a difference in the lives of those in need and bring a smile to their faces.