LISA Keegan and her mother Josephine Holden are gearing up for an exciting adventure to raise awareness for cancer research as part of the 2025 Shitbox Rally.
The pair, from Alexandra Hills, will be sending their 1988 Toyota Tarago by train to Canberra in May to kick off the rally, before embarking on a challenging drive towards Townsville.
“We are sending it down on the train,” Ms Keegan said.
“It is after all a Shitbox Rally and we are worried it may not make the rally if we drive it down.”
For Ms Keegan, 56, the rally holds personal significance.
Having battled acute lymphoblastic leukemia for the past 12 years, including undergoing a bone marrow transplant in 2013, she continues to face ongoing health challenges, including heart and kidney failure.
The Cancer Council has been a vital source of support throughout her journey, and this rally is her way of offering heartfelt thanks.
“The Cancer Council has provided support to me over the years, and this is my way of giving back,” Ms Keegan said.
“The Council offers research and practical support.”
As part of the rally, participants must raise $5000 and drive a car worth less than $1500 along some of Australia’s most notorious roads.
A total of 250 cars will take part in the May event.
“We visit lots of outback towns and this brings income into the town and helps a rural community,” Ms Keegan said.
“It also spreads the message.”
She said the challenge of driving an older car was symbolic of the resilience required by cancer patients.
“It gives you a sense of doing something difficult and this builds resilience,” she said.
“People with cancer do this every day of their lives.”
Ms Keegan is also looking forward to sharing the experience with her mother, 79, who will join her.
The duo has enjoyed previous road trips together and saw this as another worthwhile adventure.
“We’ve done a few road trips together and thought this might be worthwhile. If it works out, we will consider doing a second one,” Ms Keegan said.
She also expressed gratitude for the support of her entire family, noting that several relatives have participated in initiatives like Shave for a Cure.
“In our family, when people need help, we help.
“Cancer is very levelling.
“It can hit any race, creed, colour and all walks of life.
“You don’t know who will be affected.
“The reality is that one-in-three will get it.”
Ms Keegan also highlighted the positive influence of the rally, noting that it has introduced her to many
“unconditionally good humans”.
“You meet people like those in the rally and it renews our faith in humanity,” she said.
Support and sponsorship for Lisa and Josephine’s Shitbox Rally journey can be made via the rally’s official website: autumn2025.shitboxrally.com. au/last-warriors.
