Some incredible people have been brought into our world over the years — but the connection between Ramsey Bros and Variety The Children’s Charity is one that will hold strong for years to come.
By supporting children who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs (and their families), Variety is changing the lives of South Australians every day. On the eve of the SA Variety Bash 2020, ‘KI to Capital’, we chatted to CEO and all-round legend, Mark ‘Sav’ McGill about this inspiring event, which is close to the heart of the Ramsey Bros family.
“Beginning in Kangaroo Island on 7 November, and ending in Adelaide on 12 November, this year’s Bash is set to be another adventurous country drive that will make a huge difference to thousands of local families in need. It’s a fun-filled celebration of a year of fundraising for children who deserve a fair go in life. We’re thrilled to have Ramsey Bros continuing as a major sponsor of the Bash, 4WD Adventure and Annual Themed Ball again, after many years.
“Our long-standing connection kicked off in 1994 when Brenton ‘Rambo’ Ramsey joined the Bash in a ’62 Vauxhall Cresta. In 2009, he hosted the VIP car and then moved straight into being an official for the next six years.
“In typical Rambo fashion, he accepted the revered Bash Chairman’s position and under his three-year reign, the event set state and national fundraising records, changing the lives of tens of thousands of children in need. After 26 years of service, he doesn’t look like easing up either, now holding the top job as Chairman of the Board,— Mark notes.
“But there are two things that strike me (and others) about Rambo. The first is his ability to champion a hot pink Chairman’s jacket like it’s nobody’s business. I’m sure it’s raised a few eyebrows at the pub, but testament to his grand-daughter’s favourite colour and his commitment to the cause, he wears it with perfect pride!
“Secondly, is his resolute commitment to a good bakery feed. Rambo’s as renowned for his unique ability to find gorgeous scenery for fellow Bashers along the track, as he’s known for running them off-track when there’s a good bakery on the horizon,— Mark laughs.
“There have been occasions when scouting the upcoming route, that he’s taken a quick 100km or so detour in the name of pastries. For the record, Rambo lists Tumby Bay as home of the best pie; Yankalilla ranks top for best pastie; and you have to travel to Ouyen in Victoria if you are seeking out an epic vanilla slice!
“We all know when Rambo gets hooked on something, he’s like a dog with a bone. If you ask anyone at our end, we hope he never lets go!— Mark says.
It’s a relationship that Brenton started and the whole Ramsey Bros team is honoured to continue. The families we’ve met along the way and their children have brought more joy into our lives than all the hot pink jackets and bakery runs combined! Best wishes to all the legends taking part in this year’s Bash.