More than 190 teams to tackle Australia’s toughest roads in $1,500 cars to raise millions for Cancer Research. Port Douglas will become the starting line for one of Australia’s largest community fundraisers when more than 190 teams depart on Shitbox Rally 2026 Autumn, embarking on a seven-day adventure to Melbourne in cars worth no more than $1,500. Since its inception in 2010, Box Rallies participants have helped raise more than $65 million for cancer research, making the organisation one of Australia’s largest non-government funders of cancer research. The 2026 Autumn rally will see participants navigate over 3,500 kilometres from tropical North Queensland to Victoria’s capital, overcoming breakdowns, dust, mechanical challenges and long days on the road—all united by one purpose: making a difference for Australians affected by cancer. Every team is required to raise a minimum of $5,000, with 100 per cent of donations going directly to Cancer Council. Many participants exceed this target, inspired by personal experiences with cancer and supported by generous communities, businesses and sponsors.

“Shitbox Rally is about far more than driving old cars,” Founder and CEO James Freeman commented “It’s about ordinary Australians doing something extraordinary together. Every breakdown becomes a story, every kilometre brings people closer together, and every dollar raised helps fund life-saving cancer research.”
The rally has become renowned for its colourful convoy of creatively themed vehicles, incredible camaraderie and the generosity of the regional communities that welcome participants along the route. From roadside repairs to campfire friendships, Shitbox Rally celebrates resilience, teamwork and the uniquely Australian spirit of helping others. With fundraising already well underway, teams are encouraging individuals, community groups and businesses to get behind the cause by making tax-deductible donations to support the cause. As the convoy heads south from Port Douglas to Melbourne, participants won’t just be proving that almost any car can make the journey—they’ll be proving what can be achieved when Australians unite behind a cause that touches nearly every family.
