Revving up for a record-breaking rallye: GV Hospice hits fundraising milestone

By Jay Bryce

May 16, 2023

Views from the road: The journey began in Shepparton and took place over two days. Photo by Contributed

The Goulburn Valley Hospice Rallye celebrated its 27th edition with great success on the weekend of May 6 and 7.

With a record-breaking 47 vehicles and 121 participants, the rallye proved to be a fantastic event.

Rallye committee chair Kelvin Maude said he was delighted at the outcome.

“We had a fantastic weekend, the largest field in years resulted in a great outcome for GV Hospice,” he said.

The Saturday night auction and major raffle were met with spirited bidding, leading to record ticket sales.

Generous donations further contributed to the event’s success, culminating in a remarkable total contribution of over $138,000 to GV Hospice.

GV Hospice president Jeanette Powell said she was grateful for the rallye committee’s dedicated work over the past 27 years.

Its efforts have raised vital funds to ensure the community has access to specialist palliative care services every day of the year.

Ms Powell highlighted the significant achievement of raising over $1.1 million throughout the rallye’s history, all while creating an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The rallye featured a navigational challenge on sealed roads, showcasing the stunning scenery of the upper Goulburn Valley.

Getting the party started: Regular entrant Mary Coad’s 1951 Buick Straight Eight at the departure point at MOVE in Shepparton. Photo by Contributed

Despite inclement weather, participants embarked on a route from Shepparton to Marysville on day one, passing through Yarck, Yea, Flowerdale, Kinglake and Healesville.

Day two continued the journey with breathtaking landscapes on the way to lunch at Flowerdale Estate via Alexandra, Yea, Highlands, Trawool and Strath Creek.

Several participants demonstrated remarkable commitment by driving vintage vehicles in all weather conditions.

The all-weather crew: Jill Innes-Irons and Georgia Castles with their 1925 Bugatti Brescia Type 23.

Notably, Min Innes-Irons, Jill Innes-Irons, Geoff Adams and Chris Terdich manoeuvred vehicles dating back to the 1920s, adding to the spectacle of the event.

The rallye winners were Lily Innes-Irons, Chelsea Crouse and Will Goulding, driving a 2011 Audi Q7.

In the teams event, Lily Innes-Irons, Jill Innes-Irons and Nick Castles claimed victory with a 1925 Bugatti Brescia Type 23 and a 1960 Porsche 356B, respectively.

The recently completed 1925 Fiat TIPO 501, campaigned by Min Innes-Irons and Paul Custance, earned the title of the most popular vehicle.

The annual rallye takes place on the first weekend of May and welcomes vehicles of all ages.

For more information about next year’s event, contact Kelvin Maude on 0418 992 270.