What started as a small rally of just six cars in 2016—born from a community’s determination to support their local CanAssist branch after a burglary—has grown into a major fundraising force, making a lasting impact on several charities.
Among the grateful beneficiaries is Angel Flight Australia, a service well known in Hay for coordinating free flights that help rural residents access essential medical care in larger cities. Since 2019, the Hay Rust n Dust Rally has raised over $140,000 for Angel Flight, alongside significant contributions to CanAssist, the Cancer Council Western Division, and the Hay Community Health Trust.
Rally Secretary Leah Books says they choose to support medical causes because living in Hay brings a set of logistical challenges when it comes to accessing medical care.
“Our committee wants to take some of the burden away from local families so supporting Angel Flight was really a no brainer.”
“We have had so many local families use Angel Flight and we have heard amazing stories come back to us. We feel that there is a need for this cause to continue,” comments Ms Books.
Angel Flight, a national charity, connects people in remote areas with non-emergency flights and ground transport so they can receive treatment unavailable in their own communities. Despite the crucial service they provide, Angel Flight receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations and corporate support.
Communities across Australia continue to show their appreciation by raising funds and volunteering, and Angel Flight CEO Marjorie Pagani says the generosity of Hay and its surrounding areas never ceases to amaze her.
“Whether it’s organising a rally that covers 2,000 kilometres of outback NSW or simply holding a Golf Day at the Gold Coast, people support us because they know they need us. If you live thousands of kilometres from your treatment centre and are facing months or even years of medical appointments—how else do you get there?” Ms Pagani said.
“The people of Hay and the wider community are just wonderful, and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts for standing by Angel Flight, year after year.”
The Rally occurs around mid-November each year and includes a four-day road trip across NSW with a ‘Rally Tally Night’ back in Hay where the community come together for a fun-filled night to top off the fundraising. Rally President Shane McGufficke says to “stay tuned for what’s planned in 2025”.
With the Hay Rust n Dust Rally growing stronger each year, it’s clear this community event is not just about the journey—it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.
