Freezing nights, Covid, can’t stop Dunga Derby from smashing fundraising target

From freezing cold nights to a Covid scare, this year’s Dunga Derby had it all. Watch the video here.

From freezing cold nights to a Covid scare, this year’s Dunga Derby had it all.

And through the hills, the dirt, sand, mud and hot dusty roads, the teams were able to come together during the four day rally to raise $510,000, smashing last year’s total of $280,000.

Larnsy's Ratbags taking part in this year's Dunga Derby for Rally for a Cause.

The Dunga Derby is the major fundraising event to support the Rally for A Cause Charity in their efforts to support Fraser Coast families with life-limiting medical conditions in need of financial and practical assistance.

Event co-ordinator Andrew Coppens said it was an incredible effort from the 62 Fraser Coast teams and 26 Sunshine Coast teams that took part in this year’s Dunga Derby.

The Cash Cows having a ball on the Dunga Derby drive.

On the first night the temperature dropped to three degrees, with teams shivering their way through the night.

Having picked up the Sunshine Coast teams along the way, the group explored Laidley, Dalby and Kingaroy.

Mr Coppens said they were in close contact with Queensland Health and the police service on Saturday as it became clear a lockdown was imminent.

Social distancing wasn't too hard at this year's Dunga Derby.

Strict health measures were also in place, with temperature checks twice a day for participants and a quarantine area for anyone who fell ill.

“We had lots of planning in place.” he said.

The teams had to bring back the time for lunch by an hour to make sure they would be out of the Sunshine Coast local government area by the time the lockdown was in place.

The Reuse and Recycle car taking part in the Dunga Derby.

“The most major disruption was not being able to join the Whale Parade because it was cancelled,” Mr Coppens said.

Hervey Bay’s annual Whale Parade had to be cancelled because of the Covid outbreak, but the returning vehicles were able to put on a bit of a show, cruising along the Esplanade to celebrate their return.

He said the best part was being able to help families who were struggling.

The Katastrophy Wives catching up with some air support.

“Imagine if your child was sick and what if you couldn’t be there to help them because you have to pay the mortgage,” he said.

“It happens every day of the week and the idea is to take away a bit of the burden.”