Variety makes a splash for special kids

Variety - the children's charity is branching out from its iconic car rally fundraiser, known as ‘The Bash' and is taking its message to the seas.

The inaugural Variety Splash, held from February 28 to March 1, is a leisurely three-day, two-night boat rally circling Port Phillip Bay, interspersed with social events and a good dose of irreverent fun.

The event will commence at Waterfront City Docklands and 'Splashers' will travel to Mornington, across the bay to Geelong and back up the coast to Waterfront City.

Participants can rest their sea legs during stopovers and nightly functions, and revel in style during the event's final festivities at the finish line.

It is anticipated the event will raise $150,000 which will go towards providing utilities and life experiences for Australia's sick, disadvantaged and special-needs children.

Some of the many projects that Variety supports include enabling life-saving medical treatment; funding hospital wards and neo-natal transport ambulances; running public education campaigns; providing scholarships; purchasing minibuses and wheelchair-friendly playground equipment; and supporting individuals with mobility and communication devices.

The Variety Splash is an opportunity for seasoned seafarers and novices alike to enjoy a unique experience, while providing essential funds for Variety's much-needed services.

Both powerboats and sailboats are welcome, and there are several ways to enter - boat owners can form their own teams or donate the use of a crewed boat for corporate or private groups to charter.

Applications are open for boat owners with their own teams, boat owners willing to make their boat and crew available for group charter, and private or corporate groups needing a crewed boat.

For more info, phone (03) 9642 1227, or visit www.varietysplash.org.au