Living in regional Australia especially The Outback presents daily challenges for many, but for families facing a childhood cancer or other life-threatening illness, the burden is undoubtedly overwhelming and daunting given the nearest specialist is hundreds of kilometres, if not more, away.
In most cases, it also means a family is split for months at a time, with one parent relocating to a city with a sick child requiring life-saving treatment, while the other remains at home, often a property, whilst working and caring for family members.
This March, Noosa Heads locals Sally-ann and Anthony Caligari have once again opened their hearts and literally rallied to support these families by taking part in the 10th Riverina Outback Rally, raising funds for Country Hope, a charity providing family-centred support programs for country children with cancer and serious illnesses.
“Last year’s rally attracted 80 cars and support teams, which raised more than $600,000 for Country Hope, directly supporting families during those tough time,” recalled Anthony. “This year the rally starts in Wagga and finishes near Tamworth, but we have no idea where we’ll be going in between,” Anthony said. “We might actually get to the back of Bourke!
“But what I do know is the Outback Rally covers about 2500km over five days, however Sally-ann and I will also drive more than 2000km to get to the start, and of course after the event for the return home.”
Sally-ann and Anthony, said they have spent the past six months preparing their modified Subaru Impreza to tackle some of Australia’s harshest and most remote roads. “The rally experience is unlike anything else. An amazing week, travelling through outback Australia with a great group of generous people and meeting plenty more along the way. In the past, we’ve also stopped to visit some of the sick kids and their families who are receiving help from Country Hope. It’s incredibly emotional yet heart-warming, and it makes us even more determined to raise money for these amazing families.”
Having grown up in regional Victoria, the Caligari’s hearts remain imbedded with country spirit, however they area eternally grateful for their blessed lifestyle in the idyllic climes of the Noosa area. Of course, also generous sponsors whose businesses will be splashed all over their Subaru Impreza, turning it into a truly impressive moving billboard covering in excess of 5,000kms, not only raising much needed funds but also promoting Australia’s favourite holiday destination of Noosa.
Included thus far are Humacology, Butler Aviation Insurance, Noosa Watersports, Noosa Dream Boats, Baker’s Pantry, AM Auto, Canvas and Marine Covers CMC and Tom Offermann Real Estate, where both Anthony and Sally-ann are members of the In-House Media team. Sally-ann also works locally as a disability support worker at Sunshine Butterflies.
“We’ve been blown away by the support from the Noosa community,” commented Sally-ann, “and we’d love more generous Noosa businesses as sponsors to come along for the ride, also donations to exceed our target.”
The Riverina Outback Rally begins on 9 March 2026, with every kilometre helping to make a difference for country families when they need it most, and 100% of all funds raised go directly to Country Hope.
Tax deductible donations to Country Hope are via the team donation page at www.mycause.com.au/page/374681/wrxpedition
follow them on Instagram at instagram.com/wrx.pedition?igsh=MXMxYjkxbzdzODRrMA== or for sponsorship enquiries email Anthony at producer@offermann.com.au
