Port locals to take on Shitbox Rally for Cancer Council

PORT Macquarie locals Matthew Newton and Lyndal Nankervis are preparing to take their $900 Chrysler PT Cruiser, affectionately named “Mr Squiggle”, on the road for the May 2026 Shitbox Rally.

The rally challenges drivers to cover 3,500 kilometres in cars worth less than $1,500, travelling from Port Douglas through the middle of Australia to Melbourne in just seven days – all in the name of raising vital funds for the Cancer Council.

More than 225 teams will take part, with Matthew and Lyndal finally secured their spot after five years on the waiting list.

Within weeks of launching their campaign, the pair had almost reached their $10,000 fundraising goal.

“We needed $5,000 to compete,” Matthew said.

“We set a target of $10,000 and we have already raised $9,900 with eight months to go.

“The support has been incredible.”

Their rally car has already taken on a special role in the community.

Purchased in Macksville and christened Mr Squiggle, the PT Cruiser will soon be covered with handwritten tributes from locals touched by cancer.

Lyndal told News Of The Area that locals can look out for the Chrysler in various Port Macquarie locations in the coming months.

“We will hand out paint pens so people can write about their loved one’s journey on the car,” Lyndal said.

“By the time we reach Melbourne, the car will carry hundreds of stories with it.”

Local businesses have rallied behind the effort, donating mechanical work, tyres, signage, and sponsorship.

Community members have chipped in too, with donations often handed over on the spot.

For Matthew, the cause is personal.

His mum is a breast cancer survivor and his dad sadly passed away from the disease.

“It is humbling to see so many people back us,” he said.

“This car is not just ours, it is the community’s rally car against cancer.”

To donate to Matthew’s and Lyndal’s fundraising journey visit their Instagram page @matt_lyndal_mr_squiggle.

By Sis HIGGINS