We’ve both seen firsthand the impact cancer can have on the people around us, and like so many others, it’s a cause that’s pretty close to home.
We wanted to do something to help raise money for cancer research.
So naturally, we bought Monica — a 1994 Holden Nova! Don’t know what that is? We weren’t too sure either.
She’s a genuine shitbox that we’re now committed to driving thousands of kilometres from Port Augusta to Townsville in the name of a bloody good cause.
Luckily, one of us is a qualified mechanic, which should improve Monica’s chances considerably. The other provides questionable advice and moral support.
We’re paying for Monica, the fuel, repairs and every other cost that comes with this questionable adventure ourselves.
Every dollar donated goes directly towards cancer research.
For us, it’s pretty simple — raise as much money as we can for a cause that means a lot to us, have a bloody good adventure along the way, and somehow get Monica across the finish line — even if we have to push her.
We’ve got the shitbox. We’ve got the mechanic. Now we just need your support.
Dig deep, throw a few bucks in and help us give cancer the shitbox treatment.
Defects & Detours are driving a $1,500 car from Port Augusta to Townsville to raise money for Cancer Council
They're doing what!?
Shitbox Rally is a 7-day challenge like no other. Participants drive cars worth no more than $1,500 through some of Australia's most stunning (and often rugged) landscapes, all in support of cancer research. It's not a race — it's a challenge and more importantly, a celebration of the power of community.
Yes, the cars break down, and yes, there are plenty of unexpected twists along the way, but that's all part of the fun.
The rally is designed to be a colourful and unpredictable experience, where teams travel in small groups, helping each other along the way.
And when the day's drive ends, we gather around the campfire, share stories, and reflect on the day's achievements.
This event brings together people who have been impacted by cancer in different ways — whether it's through their own battles or through loved ones. Together we'll make memories that last a lifetime while supporting the fight against cancer.
Donate NowEvery rally. Every dollar.
Directly to Cancer Council.
Box Rallies is the largest funder of cancer research in Australia — outside of the government. Every dollar supports Cancer Council.
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Leading development of a novel epigenetic test to more accurately determine tumour risk — particularly for tumours misclassified by current clinical tools.
Developed innovative x-ray hardware under $0.5M that produces MRI-quality images and captures 3D scans during live treatment delivery.
Targeting pancreatic cancer via anti-fibrotic NID2 therapy combined with Gemcitabine/Abraxane chemotherapy to stratify and improve treatment outcomes.
Exploring genomics to identify high-risk patients earlier and guide development of new therapeutic strategies — improving survival chances.
Advanced pre-clinical evaluation of sphingosine kinase 1-targeting agents as a therapy for acute myeloid leukaemia.
Advancing CAR-T cell therapy for extracranial solid paediatric cancers.
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Harnessing epigenetics for early detection of residual and recurrent breast cancer through advanced liquid biopsy testing.
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A new targeted therapy for resistant HER2-positive breast cancers.
