They have both lost loved ones to the illness, and Tanya is a survivor.
As a result, they have both set personal goals to do more to help other families in the same situation.
So the long-time family friends decided to do something together, and applied to participate in the 2024 S@#tbox Rally.
They have been accepted for the winter rally this June between Melbourne and Alice Springs, under the team name ‘On Angel’s Wings’.
“Too many of my family members and close friends have suffered with cancer, and my personal dream has always been to complete an outback car rally,” Peata said.
“I just needed to find one that had meaning and purpose.
“I honestly believe the S@#tbox Rally achieves both. If I can make just a small contribution to finding a cure for cancer, I hope to make a significant difference to someone else’s life forever.
“I’m a very passionate person and do love a good challenge, learning new things and making new friends.”
For Tanya, rallying for a good cause with her friend of more than 25 years will be an adventure neither of them will ever forget.
“I’ve also often dreamed of doing an outback rally, and when we found one with all proceeds going to the Cancer Council for research, I just knew it was right - the perfect way for me to give back and to make a real difference.
“I have cared for and lost my mum and sister, my cousin, as well as too many close friends and more to cancer. I have seen the pain, sadness and devastation to all involved.
“I’ve also survived kidney and lung cancer and consider myself one of the luckiest people on the planet.
“I know this adventure will shine a light and can’t wait to give it our all and raise much needed funds for a great cause.”
The S@#tbox Rally is Australia’s largest independently-run fundraiser for the Cancer Council, with donations totalling almost $43 million over the life of the event.
Up to 250 teams will participate in the winter rally, which is not a race but a challenge for teams to drive across Australia via some of its toughest roads.
Rally cars must be worth less than $1500, and teams must raise a minimum of $5000 to be able to compete.
On Angel’s Wings has already raised more than $6700, with more donations rolling in.
The general public can support the fundraiser by making an online donation at www.winter2024.shitboxrally.com.au/on-angels-wings, or by buying a ticket in the team’s raffle.
Tickets are sold by Peata’s father John Cottee and family friend Janet Mathewson outside Ritchies IGA Deniliquin each Monday.
You can also contact Peata via the ‘On Angel’s Wings Sh*tbox Rally 2024’ Facebook page, Peata’s personal Facebook page or by phoning 0400 422 774 to purchase tickets.
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