Making a Difference

Fueling Change with Every Kilometre

Dirt n Dust & WA Rotary Relief Partnership.

The Dirt n Dust Run has injected $60,000 of seed funding into the new Mental Health Disaster Aid Fund. This collaboration with WA Rotary Relief is designed to bolster mental health resilience and recovery in communities hit by disasters across Western Australia.

From Fires to Cyclones

a fire fighter stands next to a coffee rock wall with a blazing bush fire behind him

Wooroloo Bushfire (2021)

86 homes were lost but not forgotten. We helped provided 47 lockable and waterproof containers ($214K), tool libraries ($73K), and fencing support (~$165K) in collaboration with BlazeAid.

Areial view of the after math of Cyclone Seroja in Kalbari with homes missing roofs, and debre scattered

Cyclone Seroja (April 2021)

Tackling severe damages and enduring mental health challenges in the Mid-West.
Supported mental health programs, such as the JK Rock Solid Leaders Program (~$16K) 

A man smiling in a check shirt places a hand in comfort on another man, another man and woman look on with smiles

Recent Efforts

Continuous support in regions affected by the 2022 fires and subsequent bushfires in 2023 and 2024, including essential repairs and waste management solutions. 

WA Rotary Relief excels in long-term recovery, working alongside BlazeAid and the Minderoo

An AFL Football team gathered around In Between the Ears director

Direct Support Initiatives

In Between the Ears: Aiding Minds One Decibel at a Time Dirt n Dust has contributed $18,500 to help those with post-concussion syndrome and traumatic brain injuries at the local AFL level. Initiatives include:

  • Noise-Cancelling Headphones: To combat hypersensitivity to sound, aiding in meditation and mental well-being.
  • Healthcare Referral System: Facilitating initial crucial medical visits to support recovery.

Broadening Horizons

Doors Wide Open: Opening Doors to Recovery With $28,500 donated from Dirt n Dust, this Bunbury-based organisation continues to offer crucial support and expand mental health services for those battling drug addiction.

With the monies raised, Doors Wide Open will  continue providing essential services such as counselling, group therapy, and peer support programs, as well as helping more individuals and families in crisis access the resources they need to begin their recovery journey.

4 people in front of Door Wide Open sign
showing logo's of Rotary Health, Rotary clubs of Australia and Lift the Lid campaign

Local Impact through Rotary

Australian Rotary Health’s Lift the Lid Initiative We're proud to have donated over $108,000 to support mental health research and education across Australia, empowering communities to address mental health proactively.

Empowering Local Initiatives 40% of funds raised go directly to organisations like Sail Into Life Bunbury and Riding for the Disabled in Cable, enriching lives through inclusive activities and therapeutic programs.

Governance and Accountability

We're committed to transparency and effectiveness:

  • Transparent Allocation: Funds are meticulously directed to validated mental health initiatives.
  • Regular Reporting: Keeping you informed on how every dollar is making a difference.
  • Collaborative Oversight: Ensuring funds are used precisely where they're needed most.

Driven by Passion, Powered by Volunteers

The Dirt n Dust Run is a testament to the power of community and volunteerism. Every aspect of this event is orchestrated by a tireless team of volunteers who dedicate countless hours each month to ensure its success. From the meticulous planning of the route to the governance, financial management, tech support, and participant engagement—every gear in our machine is turned by someone who believes deeply in our mission.

Our mechanics, medics, caterers, and drivers work seamlessly behind the scenes to transport gear, manage logistics, and create engaging activities like themed days, puzzles, and quizzes that define the spirit of Dirt n Dust. What makes this event truly unique is its commitment to direct impact: But also reflects the pure volunteer-driven spirit that fuels our efforts to make a difference.

Volunteers behind the very successful Dirt n Dust run
Volunteer Crew from the first run (left) and Crew in 2023 (right)

100% of all funds raised through the Dirt n Dust platform are allocated to vital causes associated with mental health and well-being, ensuring that every dollar contributed by our participants advances our mission without being diluted by administrative costs.