WIN TV to fill the 2020 gap with convoy special to air on November 15
Organisers of the annual i98FM Illawarra Convoy have taken the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 i98FM Illawarra Convoy due to the current pandemic.
Illawarra Community Foundation chairman Andrew Lancaster says it is the most socially responsible decision for everyone involved, and the Illawarra community.
“We know everyone looks forward to Convoy each year, but the current restrictions mean getting together in large numbers for events just isn’t possible at the moment, and we join a long list of events that have had to change their approach this year.”
This is the first time in the event’s 16 year history that the truck and motorbike convoy and free family fun day will not go ahead as planned. The event has raised more than $16 million dollars since 2005.
However, with the backing of the WIN Network and radio station i98FM, the 2020 i98FM Illawarra Convoy event will be replaced with a television special airing the same day as the convoy was scheduled to take place – Sunday, November 15.
“You can celebrate Convoy this year with those close to you, from your own home, without the crowds,” Lancaster says.
Convoy founder and i98FM breakfast show announcer Marty Haynes says the TV special will feature historical convoy footage, stories from the families, charities and hospitals the convoy has supported over the years.
Haynes says this will include “interviews with our donors and supporters, and the magical moments convoy has provided over the years”.
Despite its physical absence, those wishing to donate to the i98FM Illawarra Convoy can do so through fundraising activities such as silent auctions, merchandise sales, raffles and more for the benefiting charity – Illawarra Community Foundation.
“COVID-19 has affected everyone in 2020,” says Convoy manager Mark Rigby.
“Unfortunately though those patients affected by potentially life threatening medical conditions that Convoy supports, don’t get a year off because of COVID-19. Their treatment still goes on, and the support we provide will not be affected by the decision to replace the physical event with the television event.
“For this reason we are pushing on with our fundraising.
“We know many people and businesses have been affected by restrictions this year, and if all you can do this year is buy some Convoy merchandise, or make a small donation we totally understand that,” Rigby says.
The St George Illawarra Dragons rugby league side has already come to the party, offering fundraising activities including the 50/50 raffle which is open to NSW and Queensland residents.
Convoy merchandise can be purchased online at and a list of frequently asked questions can be found on the Convoy website www.illawarraconvoy.com.au.
Further details on the television special will be advised via the WIN Network, i98FM and Convoy’s website and Facebook page.