So while WA Variety Bash co-ordinator Geoff Kemp encourages laughs and fun aplenty, he believes it’s essential people realise behind all the colour and fun, there’s a vital message and cause to raise funds and awareness for.

“Obviously the cars and the costumes help bring a smile to the face of the children we see along the way and that’s what it’s all about, helping out the kids” he said.

“That’s what everyone has to realise - everything we’re doing is for the children. This is a very special and important fundraiser and while we may look silly, we’re happy to do it for a great cause.”

Anson Street School principal Gary Brotherton welcomed more than 40 bash cars and 100 participants yesterday on their first stop-off as they made their way from Sydney to Western Australia.

“It’s fantastic that they’ve come through Orange. It’s a great way for us, as a school, to say thank-you to the people who participate in these rallies because the funds that they’re raising essentially help out children like those we have at this school,” he said.

“Variety has been a big supporter of this school for more than 30 years so it was great to give a little bit back.”

Mr Kemp said the bash would stop at many different schools along the way but said he’d struggle to come across a better and friendlier one than Anson Street School.

“Along the way we see lots of children’s charities and schools but I doubt we’ll come across a better one than this one [Anson Street School],” he said.

“The school’s set-up is one of the best that I’ve seen and everyone we’ve dealt with has been really friendly and happy to help.

“We’ll all be leaving Orange with very fond memories of the place.”

After breakfast, members of the rally toured the school’s facilities, before they set off on their next leg towards Condobolin.

For information on the rally, or to make a donation to the sick and disadvantaged children they’re raising funds for, visit variety.org.au/wa.

luke.schuyler@fairfaxmedia.com.au