Variety Backyard Bash – The all-new Subaru Trailseeker will make history as the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) to participate in a Variety Bash.
Joining the inaugural Variety Backyard Bash and marking a new chapter in one of Australia’s most iconic fundraising adventures.
The EVolution of adventure, Trailseeker carries more than 50 years of Subaru confidence and capability into the electric era.
Combining all-electric performance with
- dual-motor Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive,
- X-Mode and the versatility to explore,
- making it a fitting vehicle to mark a new chapter in Variety Bash history
Evie the Subaru Trailseeker
Wrapped in a striking custom livery that’s near impossible to miss, the all-new Trailseeker – named ‘Evie’ – will hit the road from Sunday 9 August to Friday 14 August, travelling through the heart of regional New South Wales to help Variety NSW/ACT raise vital funds for children who are sick, experiencing disadvantage or living with a disability.
Created as a one-year-only event, the 2026 Variety Backyard Bash reimagines the muchloved Bash by welcoming modern vehicles for the first time. The six-day journey will travel from Bella Vista to Bathurst via Mudgee, Dubbo, Griffith, Albury and Cowra, with shorter driving stages designed to give participants more time to support local businesses, connect with regional communities and deliver grants to remote and regional schools.
Each township along the Backyard Bash route is home to a Subaru retailer that has served its local community for decades. Woven into the fabric of their towns, these retailers represent the enduring connection Subaru has built across regional Australia, alongside generations of owners who rely on their vehicles every day for work, family and adventure.
Subaru has been trusted by Australians who venture beyond the city limits.
For more than 50 years, Subaru has been trusted by Australians who venture beyond the city limits. From regional roads and country tracks to mountain trails and coastal escapes, Subaru vehicles have become part of countless adventures, building a reputation for capability, confidence and the freedom to make the most of every journey.
Trailseeker carries that legacy into a new era as part of Subaru’s growing Sport Electric Vehicle (SEV™) range. Combining the instant response of electric performance with more than 50 years of Subaru expertise in balance, capability and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Trailseeker delivers an electrified driving experience that remains unmistakably Subaru. Equipped with X-Mode, advanced safety technologies and the confidence to explore, it represents the EVolution of adventure for a new generation of Subaru owners.
Behind the wheel of Evie will be long-time Subaru owner and enthusiast David Gillies, who will take on the journey through regional New South Wales alongside fellow Bash participants.
David Gillies, said: “I’ve owned and driven Subarus for many years, so being able to take Trailseeker on this journey feels pretty special. There’s something fitting about a Subaru being the first BEV to tackle a Variety Bash. Because Subaru has always been a brand built around adventure and exploration. Encouraging people to get out, discover new places and make the most of every journey.
“What makes the Bash so unique is the opportunity to connect with communities along the way. And see firsthand the difference Variety makes for children and families across Australia. I’m excited to have Trailseeker along for the journey. And to experience those moments with fellow Bashers, knowing we’re helping make a positive impact along the way.”
First BEV to join a Variety Bash
As the first BEV to join a Variety Bash, Evie represents more than a motoring milestone. It reflects a shared belief between Subaru Australia and Variety. That the greatest journeys are those that bring people together. Strengthen communities and leave a positive impact long after the road ends.
Tony Warner, CEO of Variety NSW/ACT, said. “Welcoming the Subaru Trailseeker as the first BEV to join a Variety Bash is a significant milestone. That reflects how our motoring events are always embracing new ideas. While staying true to our purpose of connecting with regional communities and supporting kids in need.”
Supporters can follow Evie’s journey and help Variety NSW/ACT continue its life-changing work. By donating via the official fundraising page: https://fundraise.varietynswact.org.au/fundraisers/evie.
