Newcastle duo Kate Christensen and Jason Percival are gearing up for their second epic journey across the Australian outback, with their goal being to raise $30,000 for Cancer Council Australia.
Under the team name Shaft Punk, the pair will take part in the Shitbox Rally 2025, driving their $1,500 2001 Toyota Corolla, affectionately named Neil Diamond, from Perth to Darwin via the rugged Gibb River Road.
The Shitbox Rally, Australia’s largest independent fundraiser for cancer research, challenges participants to navigate some of the country’s toughest roads in vehicles worth no more than $1,500.
Since its inception in 2010, the rally has raised over $51 million, with teams required to contribute a minimum of $5,000 each towards an ambitious $2 million target for the 2025 event.
For Jason, this cause is deeply personal having lost his mother to melanoma when he was just 15, he is now the father of four and is passionate about raising awareness and funds for cancer research.
Kate has also felt the impact of cancer, having lost both her grandmother and aunt to the disease. Shaft Punk is determined to make a difference, not just by tackling this gruelling challenge but by rallying their community in support of the cause.
To help achieve their ambitious fundraising goal, Shaft Punk is hosting a special event at Bartholomew’s. The fundraiser promises an evening of fun, entertainment, and community spirit, providing locals with an opportunity to contribute to life-saving cancer research.
Shaft Punk will take to the long and dusty roads of the outback for 8 days of driving in their Corolla decked out in sparkly material and an inflatable silver ball mounted on the roof from June 18th. Newcastle locals can show their support by attending the fundraiser at Bartholomew’s on 20 March or donating directly via their fundraising page at winter2025.shitboxrally.com.au.
