Guilt-Free Fun with a Bigger Purpose: Lam Goes the Distance for Variety
For more than a decade, the Variety Bash has taken Lam Yankos across some of Australia’s most remote roads and communities, all while raising vital funds to support children in need.
This August, he will set off on his 12th Variety Bash, taking part in the 2026 “Wild Wild West” event from 18–27 August, travelling from Halls Gap across to Exmouth in Western Australia.
For Lam, this year’s route brings the opportunity to see a part of the country he is yet to experience through the Bash.
“I am most looking forward to crossing the Nullarbor and travelling through the western part of Australia, which we haven’t covered in previous Variety Bashes,” he said.
Lam’s involvement with Variety began back in 2013, when three good mates invited him to become a partner in a car and join them on the Bash.
What began as an adventure with friends quickly became something much bigger.
“The friendships we have formed, the places we have been off the beaten track, and knowing at the same time we are helping disadvantaged and underprivileged children is what keeps me coming back,” Lam said.
“We call it ‘guilt-free fun’.”
Over the years, the Bash has taken Lam and his team through communities across regional and outback Australia, offering a firsthand look at the challenges faced by people living in some of the country’s most isolated areas.
“Seeing how Indigenous and farming communities live in outback Australia, with the harsh conditions of the environment, is something that has really stayed with me,” he said.
But at the heart of the event is its purpose: raising funds to improve the lives of children who need additional support.
Across his 12 Bashes, Lam has personally raised more than $300,000 for Variety.
“Knowing that this money goes towards things like wheelchairs or equipment for children with disabilities is extremely satisfying,” he said.
“Without an event like the Variety Bash, many children would miss out on this support. It is vital that the Variety Bash continues for this very reason.”
Bonney Energy has proudly supported Lam throughout his involvement in the Variety Bash, providing fuel support to help his team complete the journey.
For Lam, that continued backing means more than simply helping with the costs of the trip.
“It is reassuring to know that companies we trade with in our everyday business are willing to provide ongoing support beyond our trading needs,” he said.
“Bonney Energy is a prime example, continuing to generously donate fuel support, which assists us for the trip.”
As Lam and his team prepare to head west once again, Bonney Energy is proud to continue supporting their journey and the important work of Variety in helping Australian children and families.