Civil engineering firm Daracon Group has reaffirmed its long-term partnership with Variety, the Children’s Charity NSW/ACT, despite the cancellation of the 2026 Variety NSW Bash. The event, which was scheduled for May, was cancelled due to regional fuel scarcity and rising fuel costs, leaving the charity with a projected fundraising deficit of more than $1 million.
Variety NSW/ACT CEO, Tony Warner said that while the event will not proceed this year, the demand for grants, scholarships and disability support programs remains high. To mitigate the funding gap, the charity is launching the Move In May Challenge, an alternative fundraising initiative encouraging the public to log kilometres through walking, running or cycling.
Daracon has supported the charity for more than 25 years and is currently on track to reach a cumulative $2 million fundraising milestone when the Bash returns in 2027. Despite the event’s absence, the firm has continued its workplace giving contributions and recently held internal fundraising events to provide immediate support.
Business Development Director at Daracon Group, Adam Kelly said the partnership is based on consistent support rather than a single annual event.
“It is about ongoing support and ensuring we continue to back the work Variety does for children and families when it is needed most,” Adam said.
“Challenges like these remind us why partnerships matter. We are proud to stand alongside Variety now and into the future.”
The cancellation of the Bash, which usually sees a convoy of themed vehicles travel through regional New South Wales, highlights the impact of current fuel market volatility on large-scale community events. Tony said the funds raised by the convoy are crucial for supporting children experiencing sickness or disadvantage.
“We are calling on all Australians to register for our Move In May Challenge,” Tony said.
“Every kilometre covered helps replace the funds usually raised by the Bash convoy.”
Daracon is already preparing for the 2027 event, maintaining its commitment to the charity’s long-term regional programs. The firm’s ongoing workplace giving model ensures that support for local families continues regardless of the logistics surrounding the physical event.
IMAGE | Daracon maintains support following 2026 Variety NSW Bash cancellation
