Australian Rally

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SAABS DOMINATE 2020 BulldustNBack trial

IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

The BulldustNBack (BNB) Trial is a notfor-profit, four-day motoring adventure that leads drivers in wacky and wonderful old cars through WA’s outback, raising money for local children’s cancer and youth mental health charities.

This year the BNB adventured south, into the Great Southern and Wheatbelt regions of WA. Over 4 days, the BNB took cars through some outback towns, along goat tracks, across farms and through some deep, very deep puddles! A gruelling event which showcased some parts of Australia the average tourist would never find. The scenery was magnificent with Western Australia’s famous wildflowers blooming everywhere the eye could see.

The route is triple-tested to ensure drivers experience exciting routes, challenging tracks and gravel pits in WA’s famous bushland. Organisers scouted unique areas and sought permission from local farmers to drive along their challenging dirt roads.

The criteria for vehicles suggested new cars would not be suitable and regardless of value, the emphasis was on old cars that predated the 2000s. Entrants were encouraged to use their old vehicles,

buy an old one - checking out Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace, or to hire a Wicked Campers – which a few did! Vehicles had to be roadworthy, insured and safe for the adventure with front and back tow-points, a working odometer and ideally a trip meter. A pre-event check was offered free by a Rotarian at his workshop.

Of the 20 cars entered in the BNB, 4 were Saabs - two professional rally drivers; one doing its first event; and a 9.5 convertible theming itself as the “Viking Ducks”.

One asks ‘Why SAABS?” The answer must be their endurance and resilience to rough road conditions! Or is it because Saab drivers have the highest levels of “psychological involvement” with their cars - more than 10 times the passion of the average Volkswagen driver!

Due to Covid-19, the 2020 BNB Trial saw only local drivers entering, although once Covid restrictions are over, it is expected to see several international teams join in the fun in 2021 or 2022.

The BNB Trial raised over GBP20,000 ($AUD 45,000+) for cancer and mental health charities – and the event was run by volunteers from the Rotary club of Mill Point (RCMP).

A worthy event for all concerned! Visit the BNB’s social media pages at