Hi, I'm Michelle and this last year has been a challenge, with many firsts I'd rather not have had to experience, but hey here I am to tell the tale. In November 2024 after noticing a lump in my neck, I was diagnosed with Follicular Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, a blood cancer which affects the lymphocytes (white blood cells) that support the immune system. This resulted in 7 months of chemo and immunotherapy leading to remission, however a further 2 years of maintenance treatment is now underway.
Lymphoma affects more than 7300 Australians each year and is the 6th most common cancer in adults in Australia but can affect people of all ages, including children and babies. It is the most common cancer in young people aged 15-29 years and is the 3rd most common cancer in children aged 0-14 years.
In an effort to give back to Cancer Council, who have been supportive in so many ways throughout this journey, I'm thrilled to announce that my BFF of over 50 years, Marie, is taking part with me in the Mystery Box Rally 2026. Marie's husband Greg was also diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins lymphoma and underwent treatment, whilst her dad, Malcolm, unfortunately lost his fight with oesophageal cancer, so what better way for 2 besties to celebrate life.
This rally will have us driving our 1993 Mitsubishi Magna 'Shorn' along outback roads, setting off from Charleville in Queensland & returning to Charleville 5 days later. Each day in between is a mystery, we have no idea where we'll be headed until just before departure the next morning. It’s not just about the drive—it’s about making a difference in the fight against cancer.
Every participating team is required to raise a minimum of $4,000. Every dollar raised goes directly to Cancer Council and helps fund vital cancer research, which is why we're doing everything we can to hit our goal. Your support, whether big or small, will have a real impact on helping discover new treatments, hopefully including a cure for lymphoma, and all of the other incurable cancers diagnosed in Australia annually.
Mystery Box Rally is a 5-day challenge like no other. Participants drive 25+ year old cars along a mystery route, through some of Australia’s most stunning (and often rugged) landscapes, all in support of cancer research. It’s not a race—it’s a challenge and more importantly, a celebration of the power of community.
Yes, the cars break down, and yes, there are plenty of unexpected twists along the way, but that’s all part of the fun. The rally is designed to be a colourful and unpredictable experience, where teams travel in small groups, helping each other along the way. And when the day’s drive ends, we gather around the campfire, share stories, and reflect on the day’s achievements.
This event brings together people who have been impacted by cancer in different ways—whether it's through their own battles or through loved ones. Together we’ll make memories that last a lifetime while supporting the fight against cancer.
Founded in 2009, Box Rallies has raised well over $50 million for cancer research with our chosen beneficiary being Cancer Council.
We are proud to be the funder of national cancer research projects after the Australian Government. These enormous funds raised go towards vital cancer research projects.
Thanks to the community funds raised such as Mystery Box Rally we can fund world-class research that reduces the impact of cancer for everyone.
Click here to find out more about the cancer research we fund.
Intro text lorem ipsum dolor sit ametm, quas, eaque facilis aliquid cupiditate tempora cumque ipsum accusantium illo modi commodi minima.
Email us