KFC a better future for youth mental health

By Nicola Ceccato

Nov 3, 2023

Ready for a drive: Sam Eldeman with the Nissan GTR R34 he was driving for the rally. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

From pre-1980s classics to modern-day sports cars, engines were raring and ready to go on Thursday, October 26, for the annual KFC Rally 4 Youth.

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Starting in Shepparton, 95 participants and 41 cars travelled through the Victorian countryside for a three-day journey raising funds for youth mental health and wellbeing support.

The event returned for its third year after a COVID-19-forced hiatus, with its last event held in 2019.

The rally raises money for the KFC Youth Foundation, which comprises three charity partners: ReachOut Australia, Black Dog Institute and Whitelion.

Speedy: This V8 Mercedes Benz was one of the cars being driven in the rally. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

After leaving Shepparton, the rally travelled through the Strathbogie Ranges, the Yarra Valley wine region, Healesville and Flowerdale, stopping at various estates and wineries.

Funds were raised through rally participation, business sponsorships and a gala auction, which took place at the end of the three-day event back in Shepparton on Saturday, October 28.

Since its inception, the rally has raised $9.1 million, with the numbers yet to be released for this year’s fundraiser.

However, the foundation aims to hit over the $10 million mark.

Participants in the rally came from all around the country, made up of KFC franchisees, suppliers and supporters alongside local car lovers from the region.

Taking it for a spin: Drivers Tze Tan and Despina Kathestides with a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air they drove for the three-day rally. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

A big player in the rally each year is the Retzos Group – the family-owned KFC franchisee that owns over 55 KFCs in Victoria, including Shepparton’s.

Jacqui Stojanovski from the Retzos Group said not only is it a fun event to participate in, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to make a difference.

“We obviously recognise that within the case of our organisation, our workforce is predominantly made up of that 15 to 25-year age group that fits into that youth classification,” she said.

“So, it’s about us sharing that social responsibility to be able to support organisations like ReachOut Australia, Black Dog Institute and Whitelion to help that youth not only survive but thrive within their own lives.

“We’ve had a lot of support from local businesses, a lot of people have got on board, and it’s just wonderful for the community and for the foundation.”

People are still able to donate to the fundraiser and can do so by visiting their local KFC restaurant or going online to www.kfc.com.au/kfc-youth-foundation