This is the rally’s 10th annual journey, and the Gilberts have helped turn it into one of the region’s most successful charity fundraisers.
What began in 2016 as a simple idea to support a local cause has grown into a five‑day adventure supporting Country Hope.
It provides financial and emotional support to country families with a child diagnosed with cancer or other life-threatening illnesses.
This year the rally involves 67 rally teams, eight support vehicles and more than 170 participants.
For Tammy, the rally’s purpose has always been clear.
“We have an awesome support crew and we wanted to support a local charity, something that helps the whole family,” she said.
That commitment has shaped the rally’s identity, from the towns it visits to the communities it prioritises.
“Money goes to the community we visit,” Tammy said.
“It’s all volunteers, and an amazing group of people.”
The rally has raised more than $4 million for Country Hope to date.
This year’s fundraising total has already surpassed $500,000, with teams continuing to contribute even as the convoy hits the road.
One of the rally’s defining traditions is the daily route reveal, a feature that has become part of its charm.
While the rally teams know they will eventually end up in Bendemeer at the end of this week, the towns they visit along the way are kept secret until the day of the drive.
“Where we’re going is a mystery every morning,” Tammy said.
“Over the last 10 years Gavin picks where he wants to go.
“We try to support smaller communities, and the roads are different everywhere we go.”
The unpredictability brings laughter, wrong turns, breakdowns and plenty of stories, all embraced as part of the experience.
Major sponsor U‑Haul Australia has helped the event grow, but Gavin and Tammy have kept the rally grounded in its original purpose.
Every dollar raised goes directly to charity, and every kilometre travelled helps spread awareness of Country Hope.
The rally’s visits to schools and community groups often lead families to support they may never have known existed.
Tammy said the success of the rally belongs to the people who return year-after-year, many of whom have become like family.
If you would like to donate to the rally, or learn more about how to be involved next year, go to www.riverinaoutbackrally.com.au.
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