The impressive ‘Old Blokes Driving for a Cancer Cure’ have once again put the pedal to the metal, reminding us that life is too short to drive boring cars… especially when driving for a life-changing cause.
Fuelled by a commitment to raising funds for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF), 63-year-old Mario Nearchou and his band of Old Blokes including Harry Moustakas, Nick Harris, Michael Skyllas, John Assarapin and Vince Thompson, have hit the road again.
Back in December of 2023, Mario spoke to The Greek Herald about his endeavours, from the group’s initiation to raising over $100,000 through road trips, public meetups, a ground-breaking gala event and a lunch drive.
Now, the self-proclaimed “car enthusiasts” have taken their carpe diem approach through the roads of NSW’s South Coast region and North-East Victoria to showcase these cars are running on more than just fuel. Heart and determination is steering the support for those impacted by cancer.
‘Bigger and better‘
Mario told The Greek Herald that this time, his “calling” has led him to navigate a trip that’s already helped raise more than $10,000 alongside a growing total of $45,212 out of yet another $100,000 goal.
“We’ve achieved so much already and reached so many people through our belief… but this trip is kicking everything off stronger,” Mario said.
“This time, it’s bigger and better.”
On Wednesday, April 30, the engine of a vintage 1966 beetle revved up in Gymea, Sydney despite the rain, leading the way for the latest road trip venture to begin.
As a man of faith, Mario even organised Father Constantine of Gymea’s St Stylianos Greek Orthodox Parish to bless the cars, as local friends, family, and even State Member for Miranda, Eleni Petinos MP attended for the community send-off.
‘It’s not a race’
Old Blokes could have been seen driving on their week-long journey past Nowra Hill’s HMAS Albatross, and the Wagga Wagga South Lions Club, who donated $500.
Other pit-stops included Narooma, Eden, Tumut’s local golf club – where a further $2,000 was raised at an art auction – Beechworth, Young, and Mittagong, before returning to Sydney.
“It’s not a race,” Mario said.
“Every donation counts, whether it be big or small or anything in between… it helps us get closer to finding a cure.”
Over this past week, Old Blokes have also featured on 7 News’ Brightside segment, announced their own wine, and secured new sponsors featured at the back of the revamped Old Blokes t-shirt.
Mario revealed the next event to watch out for is the group’s charity function on October 17 at Doltone House, Sylvania Waters, NSW, which aligns with the ACRF’s 40th anniversary. To attend contact Mario on 0416 207 723.
Visit the ACRF website or email: oldblokesforcancer@gmail.com to donate.
