The 2026 Shitbox Winter Rally has proven once again that adventure, resilience and a healthy dose of humour can carry drivers across thousands of kilometres of Australia’s toughest terrain - even in cars that have seen better days.
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Peata Smith and Tracey McDaid - participating under the team name Deni Angels of Chaos - had a rocky start, with their car ‘Shitbox Sheila’ suffering mechanical issues on the very first leg of the seven day rally.
Against expectations, the car not only survived but powered on to the end of the week and rolled into Townsville with the convoy on Saturday.
Forecasted weather conditions forced a route change before the event got underway from Mildura Monday last week, but the Deni Angels finally got their chance at some muddy tracks toward the end of the charity run.
All along the way, Peata and Tracey were swept up in the run and excitement that the rally is known for.
Recovered from the day one breakdown, day two was all about ‘Rock Gods’, and ralliers transformed the campgrounds into a lively spectacle of wigs, leather jackets and air guitars before hitting the road.
From Bourke to Cunnamulla, drivers navigated long highway stretches, sharing stories, reconnecting with old friends and enjoying brief stops that highlighted the rally’s social spirit as much as its endurance challenge.
By sunset, teams rolled into Charleville without major incident - an achievement in itself in such demanding conditions.
The adventure intensified on day three as drivers finally hit long-awaited dirt roads.
Another crisis averted when a failing battery in their boot started emitting a burning smell, the Angels were back in the hunt again.
Day four had a Christmas theme, bringing a uniquely Australian twist to festive celebrations.
Participants traded traditional lunches for dusty roads, mechanical mishaps and roadside repairs.
Stops at iconic outback pubs in Muttaburra, Kynuna and McKinlay provided moments of relief, camaraderie and storytelling.
As the rally progressed into its fifth day, heat and dust became constant companions.
Drivers crossed cattle stations, navigated water crossings and pushed through long distances in sweltering conditions.
Despite the challenges, moments of humour persisted - from attempts to deliver an impromptu weather report to a near ‘missing persons’ incident involving a team member reluctant to leave an air-conditioned service station.
By the final days, participants had become seasoned outback travellers, efficiently setting up camps and tackling each new obstacle with confidence.
The last leg from Chillagoe to Townsville tested vehicles and nerves alike, with rocky tracks, tight corners and fatigue pushing drivers to their limits.
Yet the rally concluded on a high note, with teams belting out classic rock songs as they crossed the finish line after nearly 3900km.
“As the seventh highest fundraising team, Deni Angels and BG35 had the honour of leading the convoy out (on the final day). No pressure ... just an entire rally following us,” the team’s blog read.
“Peata jumped behind the wheel and wasted absolutely no time. We confidently followed the Box Rallies crew ... right up until they turned off after about 50km out of town and left us alone on the dirt.
“Suddenly, there was no dust to follow - just tight corners, steep dips, giant rocks and enough potholes to swallow a small hatchback.
“Meanwhile, Tracey had both hands, both feet and possibly her eyebrows gripping onto something. Stress levels hit an all-time high, and after Tracey arranged a tactical lead car swap, leadership was gracefully handed back.
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is admit someone else should drive!”
Deni Angels of Chaos eventually crossed the finish line at Townsville about 6.10pm Saturday.
“What a sight. Seven days, 3869km, countless laughs, endless dust, a few Code Yellows, a few mechanical disasters for BG35, and memories that will last a lifetime,” their blog read.
“What an incredible achievement.
“Then, just as we thought we could put our feet up and relax, the 2027 Winter Rally was announced – Cairns to Darwin.
“So Tracey, already planning ahead, asked ‘who's in for 2027?’.
“Apparently, rally fever is incurable.”
With the support of the Deniliquin and district community, the Deni team raised $32,360, which will donated to the Cancer Council.
Combined, all teams have raised more than $2.5 million.
Last minute donations can be made by going to https://winter2026.shitboxrally.com.au/deni-angels-of-chaos.