Six Greek Australians and Sydney-based car enthusiasts – who affectionately call themselves ‘old blokes’ – have completed their five-day road trip across the NSW Central West to raise money for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF).
The Greek Herald first reported on the ‘Old Blokes Driving for a Cancer Cure’ road trip in April and we caught up again with Marios Nearchou to chat about its success.
Marios, who did the road trip alongside Harry Moustakas, Nick Harris, Michael Skyllas, John Assarapin and Bob Hickman, said the community spirit was in full force throughout the drive.
The community and local businesses contributed in various ways at the meetups, which were open to the public. From meat for the sausage sizzles to prizes for the raffles, and quality wines for the upcoming Charity Dinner auction, donations were given to support the ACRF cause.
Even the local fire brigade turned out to support the ‘old blokes’ during a planned sausage sizzle at the Bathurst Motor Racing Museum.
“The response was beyond positive,” Marios tells The Greek Herald.
Their convoy of classical cars, from Mercedes to Porsches and the Volkswagen Beetle, were spotted easily thanks to Evette Harris at SIGNLITE signs Marrickville, with caricature signage of the ‘old blokes.’
“Everywhere we went, because our cars are all kitted up with signage, people would do the QR code and donate,” Mario says.
“There was a wonderful Australian spirit.”
When we spoke with Marios before the road trip, the ‘old blokes’ had raised over $24,000. They have now reached over $30,000.
The 5-day road trip was part of a goal to raise $50,000 and spread awareness for cancer research and technology that can prevent, detect, and treat all types of cancer.
In June, the ‘old blokes’ will hold a special fundraising event to conclude this year’s campaign. The event will include Greek music and will be held on Friday, June 2 at Doltone House in Sylvania Waters from 6.30pm. Tickets are $145 (including a three-course meal, beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee and tea). To buy tickets please email: oldblokesforcancer@gmail.com.
If you would like to support these ‘old blokes’ and the fundraiser visit: https://bit.ly/3UPvXfx
