Pride of Australia: For 26 years Peter Curtis has proudly raised funds for kids in need
TWENTY-SIX years ago, Peter Curtis heard about a charity motoring event called the Variety Bash. He’s proudly raised funds for it ever since.
TWENTY-six years ago, Peter Curtis heard about a charity motoring event called the Variety Bash.
At the time, he did not know much about Variety, the charity devoted to helping children who are sick, disadvantaged, or have special needs.
“A couple I knew who had been on the NSW bash, which was the only one running at the time, were telling stories about driving old cars in the bush and I guess that was the only motive,” Mr Curtis says.
“Variety wasn’t well known back in those days.”
Once Mr Curtis knew Variety was helping more than 22,000 children a year through programs and fundraising events, he was hooked and has been at the heart of Variety’s volunteer army ever since.
He has helped break fundraising records during his time as Bash chairman, worked as the radio communications official for the charity’s motoring events, and been the chairman of Variety’s annual themed ball for the past 14 years.
For his tireless efforts, Mr Curtis has been named a finalist in the community spirit category of the Pride of Australia awards.
He jokes the reason he has had so many roles is because he has been “a bit slow to step back”, but admits he is flattered over the nomination.
Though the former motor vehicle auctioneer has spent most of his years in chairman positions, his latest role — securing buses for families within Variety’s mobility program — has brought him the greatest joy.
“Over the last few years I’ve become involved with sourcing second-hand vehicles for families, particularly with children in wheelchairs, and meeting and greeting those families,” he says.
“Seeing that it helps not only the child, but the whole family, that’s one of the most rewarding areas I’ve been involved with.”
When asked why people should consider registering now for the 2016 bash, Mr Curtis chuckles.
“How long is your article?” he jokes.
“I think there’s a big percentage of people out there who have it on their bucket list. It’s an SA icon.”
You can vote online for your favourite finalist in the Pride of Australia Medal People’s Choice until Sunday, September 6. The finalist with the highest number of votes will win $5000.