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๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia /Culture & Society

20-year-old Toyota Corolla stuns onlookers on Australia's Gibb River Road

From ABC Australia · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • A 24-year-old man is traversing Australia in a 2002 Toyota Corolla, completing challenging four-wheel-drive tracks.
  • Jonny Charles recently navigated the Gibb River Road in Western Australia, including a river crossing using a homemade snorkel.
  • He is funding his travels by selling coffee from a machine installed in his car, dubbed 'Cafe Corolla'.

Jonny Charles, a 24-year-old from Victoria, is undertaking a social media-famous trip around Australia in a 2002 Toyota Corolla, proving that "where there's a will, there's a way." His journey has garnered significant online support. Charles recently tackled the Gibb River Road in Western Australia's Kimberley region, a 660-kilometer track known for its rugged terrain. He successfully crossed the Pentecost River, a significant obstacle on the route. To keep his engine dry during the crossing, Charles ingeniously fashioned a snorkel using a pool noodle and duct tape, a feat that drew cheers from onlookers. His engineering background and experience as a mechanic proved invaluable for the modifications. Charles stated he "loves the challenge" and "loves it when stuff goes wrong and breaks," embracing the difficulties of his unconventional adventure. Adding a unique entrepreneurial twist, Charles operates 'Cafe Corolla' from the boot of his car. Equipped with a commercial-grade coffee machine, grinder, and beans, he charges a flat rate of $5 per coffee. This mobile cafe not only helps fund his travels but also serves as a social hub, allowing him to connect with people on the road. Charles's trip around Australia in the $2,000 Corolla, which previously served as a delivery vehicle, has become a viral sensation. He plans to continue his journey, documenting his experiences and the car's capabilities on social media.

Where there's a will, there's a way

โ€” Jonny CharlesCharles's mantra for his unconventional Australian road trip.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Australia in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.