By Adam Shearer, HSEQ Manager SA/NT

In June 2024, I embarked on an unforgettable journey as part of the Outback Car Trek – a premier charity car rally dedicated to raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).
This annual event, held since 1990, has become a cornerstone in supporting essential healthcare services across rural Australia.
The 2024 route took us through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes and remote communities; starting from Bendigo, Victoria, we made our way through Mildura (Victoria), Burra, Arkaroola and Innamincka (all South Australia), Hungerford (New South Wales), and St George, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast (all Queensland) – finishing our journey at Sea World, the world-famous marine park.
This diverse route not only tested the endurance of our older 2WD cars, but also provided a firsthand experience of the vastness and beauty of the Australian outback.

The journey of each participant – and team – was not just about navigating challenging terrains; it was about rallying together in support of a cause that impacts countless lives. Since its inception in 1990, the Outback Car Trek has raised over $34 million for the RFDS – underscoring the unwavering commitment and generosity of participants and supporters alike.
Our team, ‘Team Cobber’, was made up of seven trek cars and one support vehicle, with sixteen participants from South Australia raising more than $180k of the $1.1 million raised this year.
The Outback Car Trek is renowned for its unique blend of adventure and philanthropy, attracting enthusiasts who are passionate about making a difference. Our cars, specially prepared to handle the rugged outback and remote dirt roads, symbolised our determination to overcome challenges for a greater cause.

Personally, the trek was a profound experience. From the camaraderie among participants to the warm reception in local communities, every moment reinforced the importance of supporting the RFDS’s critical mission. Knowing that each kilometre we drove contributed directly to providing emergency medical services to rural Australians further fuelled our determination and commitment.
The Outback Car Trek stands as a testament to the spirit of adventure and the power of community in supporting essential healthcare services. It is an honor to have been part of this remarkable event, and I look forward to continuing to support the RFDS’s lifesaving efforts in the years to come.

As I look back on the 2024 Outback Car Trek, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause. It was a journey that not only tested our driving skills, but also touched our hearts – reinforcing the belief that, together, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who rely on the RFDS.
In conclusion, I’m already looking forward to the 2025 Trek. It will be my fifth trek personally, and the Outback Trek’s 35th anniversary – which will be a little longer than normal, allowing us to travel to more remote locations. We will start close to Sydney, NSW, on May 29, and will finish in Cairns, Queensland, on June 8.
Any support via sponsorship with advertising or donations, not matter what size, would be greatly appreciated for 2025.