A 16-YEAR-OLD from Tyabb had her artwork displayed on a supercar bonnet during this year’s Bathurst 1000.
Supercar driver Cody Burcher had the artwork of ten children diagnosed with cancer displayed on his bonnet as he raced over the weekend of 8 October.
Burcher drove a fully charity-branded Holden Commodore ZB for the Kids with Cancer Foundation.
Tyabb resident Shontel was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma in March and has since had her kidney removed.
She now faces 12 more months of intensive treatment.
Shontel had the opportunity to draw a picture of Tinkerbell and to autograph the bonnet with her name and age.
She said getting to watch the Tinkerbell she drew whizz around the track was a magical moment.
Burcher said every time he gets into his car, he thinks about the kids and their artwork.
“Racing at Bathurst is the biggest stage in Australian motorsport, and it means everything to be able to take these ten incredible kids along for the ride, together racing for all kids and families going through childhood cancer,” said Burcher.
“We want to shine a light on all kids with cancer, and we want them and their families to know we’re here cheering for and supporting them.”
Burcher said he hoped anyone who had been impacted by childhood cancer felt like they were part of the team when they watched the race.
“Together we can make today easier for kids with cancer and their families, whether it’s by donating a $20 Care Pack, running a fundraiser or getting involved in Wigs4Kids, we can all help in some small way,” said Burcher.
Kids for Cancer Foundation is a national charity that supports children who have faced a cancer diagnosis and their families. CEO Todd Prees said the ten children who drew pictures are among the 1,200 aged 0 to 18 who are diagnosed with cancer every year in Australia.
“These kids are facing an incredibly tough journey, and yet what comes through in their artwork is joy, imagination and hope,” said Prees.
“Having their pictures carried around Mount Panorama in front of a national audience is a powerful way to put a spotlight on childhood cancer, and we’re enormously grateful to Cody and to the Montag family for making this possible.”
You can find out more information or donate to Kids with Cancer Foundation at: kidswithcancer.org.au
First published in the Mornington News – 20 October 2026
