The Convoy is broadening its focus to reflect its commitment to supporting a range of groups and individuals in the Illawarra.. The move reflects the growth and success of the charity drive during the past 11 years.

As well as being named the i98FM Illawarra Convoy, the funds raised at the event will be sdistributed via the Illawarra Community Foundation to families affected by life threatening medical conditions and other selected charities and groups. All other aspects of the event including the route, participation and fun day in Albion Park will remain the same.

The Illawarra Convoy was created by i98FM Breakfast announcer Marty Haynes and a dedicated local committee for 12 years. i98FM will continue to run the event in the future with this committee. Any enquiries about the planning of Convoy need to be directed to Mark Rigby at rigbym@i98illawarraconvoy.com.au

We began with the goal of raising $20,000 for kids and their families who are living with cancer and in the first year the Illawarra community took up the gauntlet and donated $52,000. That generosity has grown each year and Convoy has now raised more than $9.3 million in its 12-year history.

Convoy will contribute to a range of local groups and individuals through the development of the Illawarra Community Foundation. The administrative and financial costs of running the event will now be managed by members of the Foundation.

The Foundation will determine how the funding is distributed and will provide regular updates on where the monies are going.

Yes. i98FM regularly receives requests for assistance from groups and individuals within the Illawarra and part of the submission process will consider geographical location.

Groups and individuals can apply via a submissions process AFTER this year’s Convoy when we know how much has been raised.

All funds raised will be pooled and distributed by the Foundation through the submissions process. Individual donators cannot choose a recipient to distribute their funds to but all applicants who fit the criteria are welcome to apply for funding once submissions open after this year’s Convoy.

The Foundation will share details of the fundraising recipients as part of the processes in its constitution and will be fully transparent.

The Illawarra Community Foundation assumes responsibility for ensuring all funds raised by the event are distributed to charities in need and is accountable for the decisions made. We want to ensure the funds raised through the Illawarra community who have supported this event so strongly over the years can benefit the greatest amount of people.

The Foundation will comprise a dedicated team of people who are involved in the organisation and continuing success of the event as well as those with the skills and experience to best distribute and manage the funds.