Cheque handover keeps wheels turning

The week-long event featured various activities and displays and was a significant success, boosting many local businesses.

Morris Car Club president John Habgood shared the club's motivation behind the donation.

“During the three-year period leading up to the event, we developed a relationship with the Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project,” he said.

“Their Pit Stop program resonated with our motoring fraternity, and the opportunity to support its work struck a chord with us.“

The members were impressed by the success stories shared by the Pit Stop team and were eager to contribute.

Raffles and an auction were organised and held during the rally, with proceeds going directly to the program.

The Pit Stop program operates from the Wodonga TAFE Shepparton Campus and offers hands-on learning and re-engagement opportunities for young people.

Some participants work on small engines and cars under the guidance of industry professionals, while others choose to explore creative avenues like jewellery making and painting.

The program aims to increase work and life skills, improve mental health, and create connections for young people.

As an organisation that relies heavily on community support, the donation will be essential fuel for the program, to keep the wheels turning.

Lighthouse Project executive officer Amy Robinson expressed her gratitude.

“Whether it is volunteering, donations, or fundraising, every offering of support contributes to better outcomes for young people in our region, so we are extremely grateful to the Morris Car Club for choosing to support our Pit Stop program.”

The focus will shift from four-wheel to two, with the funds to be used to purchase items for “bike restorations”.

Like the cars they work on, participants also need good, healthy fuel to keep them running, so a portion of funds will be used to keep the Pit Stop pantry properly stocked.

The car rally’s impact goes beyond their fundraising. It was also a significant event for the region, bringing many visitors and benefits.

Mayor Shane Sali thanked club members for choosing to hold the rally in Shepparton.

"It is fantastic to see a nationwide event held here in Greater Shepparton,“ he said.

“Hosting the 2024 National Rally was an honour, and it gave our region a significant economic boost.”

The News photographer Rechelle Zammit took photos as the cheque was handed over.

Here’s what she captured.