Willow Vale couple helps Camp Quality toot its way to raising over $1 million with the annual EsCarpade

The couple based in Willow Vale drove with a group of vehicles covered in quirky prints, through Albury to Coffs Harbour, for an annual charity fundraiser.

Cars that were at least 20 years old travelled for Camp Quality's EsCarpade event, which ran from April 2 to 9.

The initiative aims to raise funds for children growing up with cancer, or the diagnosis of their loved ones, while making people smile and come together.

Read also: Tobruk survivor Ernie Walker OAM turns 106

Some of the participants even dressed as Batman, Mickey Mouse and Homer Simpson for the event.

This year's EsCarpade smashed its $1 million goal by raising $1,103,222 (noted on the site on April 21), with $6600 raised by the Highlands couple.

Mr van Diemen was "pretty proud of that".

The event was welcoming to participants after it was put on hold during the pandemic.

"I'm sure all charities are doing it tough," the volunteer said.

The pair were the only people from the Highlands who took part.

He explained that participants and their cars usually stop at schools each day, along with the Camp Quality puppets.

The puppets are a favourite among students, and usually visit school kids to teach them about cancer.

They were unable to make it to the schools this year, and cars could only drive by and "make noise", due to COVID-19.

Read also: Kangaroo Valley, Culburra Beach, Huskisson, Berry, Sussex Inlet and Ulladulla in running for NSW Tourism Town Awards

Despite this, Mr van Diemen there was lots of positivity in the air.

"It's always really good to see the smiles on kids' faces," he said.

The couple have helped raise more than $50,000 in the Highlands for the charity since 2013.

They began raising funds after a former neighbour had a child with cancer and told them about their experiences with Camp Quality.

Mr van Diemen was thankful for the support of Jax Tyres and ProParts in Mittagong for helping prepare the car, and auto-electrician Brad Bishop for his complimentary servicing.

Read also: Wingecarribee Shire Council confirms multi-million-dollar infrastructure investment

The volunteer also thanked Mittagong RSL for their donations, sponsorship and assistance with fundraising over the years, and members of the Highlands community who donated.

Camp Quality supports children up to 15 years old through their, or a loved one's cancer diagnosis, through educational programs and recreational experiences.

More than $19 million has been raised for the charity through more than 3400 fundraisers across Australia.

We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.

Did you know the Southern Highland News is now offering breaking news alerts and a daily email newsletter? Keep up-to-date with all the local news: sign up below.