The WA Mack Muster and Truck Show has donated another half a million dollars to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, taking the event’s total contribution to cancer research to an extraordinary $1.35 million since the inaugural truck show in 2020.
The donation follows the success of the fourth WA Mack Muster and Truck Show held on Sunday 22 March this year at Quarry Farm in Byford. The event, as reported in The Examiner’s April 2 edition, attracted more than 11,000 visitors and 400 trucks from across Western Australia and beyond.
“What began as a celebration of Australia’s trucking industry has grown into one of the state’s most successful community fundraising events for cancer research. This spectacular celebration of trucking, family fun and community spirit donates 100 per cent of event proceeds to the cutting‑edge cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research,” a Mack Muster spokesperson said.
The cheque was presented to Professor Peter Leedman AO, Chief Executive Officer of the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, recognising another year of community generosity and industry support.
The achievement was made possible through the collective efforts of thousands of visitors, hundreds of volunteers, generous sponsors, exhibitors, truck owners and drivers, and businesses from across the transport, mining and construction industries. Every ticket purchased, truck registered, auction bid placed and sponsorship committed contributed directly to advancing life-saving cancer research.
Professor Peter Leedman AO said the continued partnership with the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show was making a real and lasting impact.
“We are absolutely delighted that the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show has once again chosen to support medical research at the Perkins. This incredible $500,000 donation will help our researchers continue their work towards better treatments and making cancer a non-lethal disease. The commitment shown by the organisers, volunteers, sponsors and the entire trucking community is truly inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.”
WA Mack Muster and Truck Show Chairman Matt Lawrence said the donation was a milestone that belonged to everyone who had supported the event over the past six years.
“To reach $1.35 million donated to cancer research is something every single person involved with the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show should be proud of. This isn’t the achievement of one person or one organisation. It belongs to every volunteer who gave up their time, every sponsor who backed our vision, every truck owner who proudly displayed their truck, every business that supported us, and every member of the public who walked through the gates,” he said.
“I’d especially like to thank our volunteer committee. They give countless hours behind the scenes throughout the year, and without their dedication this event simply wouldn’t happen. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together.
Founder Steven Della Bona said the event’s success had always been built on the generosity of the trucking industry and the wider community.
“When we first spoke about creating a truck show that gave something meaningful back to the community, we never imagined we’d one day be celebrating $1.35 million for cancer research. That figure represents thousands of people who believed in the idea and turned up year after year to support it,” he said.
“The WA trucking industry is built on hard work, mateship and generosity. This donation belongs to every driver, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who believed in the vision and helped turn it into something that’s making a real difference for families facing cancer.”
According to the organisers, while the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show has become one of Australia’s premier truck shows and is earning recognition on the world stage, its purpose extends far beyond displaying trucks and raising funds.
“The event celebrates the people who keep Australia moving while introducing children and families to the transport industry in a safe, family-friendly environment. From climbing into trucks and meeting drivers to enjoying interactive displays, rides and activities, thousands of young West Australians experience the industry firsthand each year,” the Mack Muster spokesperson said.
“Often described as the ‘Royal Show of Trucking,’ the event showcases the pride, innovation and professionalism of the transport industry while inspiring future drivers, mechanics, technicians and transport professionals.
“The organisers are equally passionate about changing the way the community sees truck drivers. A simple arm pump from the side of the road can brighten a driver’s day, reminding them they are valued and appreciated. By creating positive connections between families and the transport industry, the event hopes to contribute to better mental health and wellbeing for those who spend countless hours behind the wheel keeping Australia supplied.”
As planning begins for the next WA Mack Muster and Truck Show in 2028, the organisers say they remain committed to delivering Australia’s best truck show while continuing to support cutting edge cancer research to one day make cancer a non-lethal dis
