For over two decades, the Rotary Corolla Capers has been a cornerstone event on the South Australian Rotary calendar. Organised by the Rotary Club of Regency Park and supported by clubs like Prospect, the premise is simple yet challenging: participants navigate the demanding terrain of the Australian outback in classic, rear-wheel-drive Toyota Corollas with engines under 1800cc. These often 40-year-old vehicles become a testament to the resourcefulness and mechanical skill of their owners.
At its heart, the Capers is a journey in fellowship and “Service Above Self.” It blends the spirit of adventure with a clear purpose: to raise significant funds for vital Rotary-supported charities while forging lasting friendships along the dusty tracks.
This year’s event was a perfect embodiment of that tradition. Participants in the 2025 Corolla Capers have returned after another successful trip, raising a total that is approaching $20,000 for various Rotary projects.
The journey was not without its mechanical dramas, which were often solved with classic bush ingenuity. After hitting a large pothole, participant Grenville found his car’s front wheels had been pushed back so far they were rubbing on the mudguards. The team’s solution was to hook the car to a four-wheel drive and give it a few sharp tugs to pull the chassis straight enough to drive home.
In another memorable incident during a gymkhana event, one of the cars rolled onto its side. Undeterred, the group simply pushed it back onto its wheels. After waiting five minutes, the driver started it up and drove off, a display of the resilience of both the vehicles and the participants.
The trip took the convoy to iconic locations like Cameron Corner, the junction of South Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales. The group’s timing proved fortunate, as heavy rains led to the closure of many of the roads they had just travelled on the day after they passed through.
Fundraising was a constant feature of the trip. A nightly auction provided great entertainment and strong results, with one prize fetching $420. The “Golden Glovebox,” a tongue-in-cheek award for the day’s biggest blunder, was also presented each evening, with Grenville and the driver of the rolled car being notable contenders for the overall prize.
The Corolla Capers continues to be a unique blend of adventure, mechanical problem-solving, and service. If you have an interest in classic cars, outback travel, and contributing to a good cause, we encourage you to get involved.
For more information on joining next year’s event or becoming a member, please contact us
