Where we will explore
From the coast to the high country
Set off from Newcastle and follow the coast north to Port Macquarie before turning inland, climbing through the Great Dividing Range and into New England country on the way to Armidale.
Big skies and artesian spa country
As the landscape opens up, the Bash heads north-west to Moree, Australia’s Artesian Spa Capital.
Famous for its naturally heated mineral waters, wide-open landscapes and rich regional character, Moree brings a distinctive change of pace to the journey.
Discover "The Ridge"
Few places say outback Australia quite like Lightning Ridge.
Famous around the world for its rare black opals, "the Ridge" is colourful, quirky and completely unique.
From red dirt to green forest
Leave the open plains behind as we head towards the spectacular Pilliga Forest, the largest native forest west of the Great Dividing Range.
Red dirt gives way to towering trees before the route begins its final run towards Narrabri and our finish in Tamworth.
And then there's everything in between
Backroads, regional towns, school visits and genuine country hospitality all come together to create a journey full of character, connection and moments you simply can’t plan for.
A route to remember
Day 1 | Sunday 16 May: Newcastle – Port Macquarie
Day 2 | Monday 17 May: Port Macquarie – Nowendoc – Armidale
Day 3 | Tuesday 18 May: Armidale – Ashford – Moree
Day 4 | Wednesday 19 May: Moree – Dirranbandi – Lightning Ridge
Day 5 | Thursday 20 May: Walgett – Pilliga – Narrabri
Day 6 | Friday 21 May: Narrabri – Kingstown – Tamworth
You know there are road trips, and then there’s a Variety NSW Bash - complete with wild costumes, dusty tracks, crackling radios, heartwarming school visits, roadside laughs and the kind of mates you want to spend time on the road with.
If you’ve been waiting for the right reason to join us, the 2027 Variety NSW Bash is that reason! Hitting the road from 16 to 21 May it's a route featuring all the ingredients of a classic adventure.
