Kenilworth fire truck team delivers $45,000 Variety Bash boost

The local team includes, from left, Ben Phipps, Brendan Seamour, Justin Beall & Mark Bingham.

Kenilworth Country Cabins owner Mark Bingham and his distinctive Japanese fire truck have returned from another successful Variety Bash after helping raise $45,000 for children in need.

The contribution formed part of an impressive $1.8 million raised during the 2026 Queensland Variety Bash, which attracted 70 Bash cars and another 30 official, camping and workshop vehicles.

Mr Bingham said the event gave participants an opportunity to support children and families they might otherwise never meet.

“It’s nice to be able to give a bit back to kids that need a hand that we would rarely normally get the opportunity to meet,” he said.

The team’s 1996 Japanese fire truck, a Toyota LandCruiser, has now completed three Variety Bashes and helped raise more than $110,000 for Variety – the Children’s Charity.

This year’s adventure travelled from Innisfail to Gladstone, taking participants on a large loop through western Queensland along the way.

Among the memorable moments was an impromptu race involving the four fire trucks taking part in the Bash, which Mr Bingham described as one of the highlights of the journey.

The distinctive vehicle has become a familiar part of the Kenilworth team’s fundraising efforts.

Mr Bingham described the Variety Bash as combining “adventure, mateship and making a difference in the lives of kids in need”, with the team raising money through donations, raffles and other activities in the lead-up to events. “I’d like to thank Major local Sponsors Moto 1 Motorcycles, Honda Motorcycles Australia, BBQ and Fireplace Centre, Kunda Park Automotive, Keniloworth Rural, Kenilworth Hotel & Kenilworth Dairy,” he said.

After three Bashes, the crew is now considering a change of pace for 2027.

Mr Bingham said they were brainstorming the possibility of joining a shorter charity rally next year, allowing more time for other adventures while continuing to support worthwhile causes.

For more information about the Variety Bash, visit varietybashqld.com.au.

The Kenilworth Cabins team’s 1996 Japanese fire truck, a Toyota LandCruiser, is second from left.