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Driving towards a cure for Motor Neurone Disease

Robert Barry · 0 comments

Transport and logistics specialist insurance provider, NTI, has launched another national fundraiser for Motor Neurone Disease research.

NTI has raffled seven trucks since 2017 raising more than 2.5 million dollars for the NTI Research Grant, in the hope of helping find a cure for the disease which claims the life of two Australians every day.

The money raised has funded research at the University of Queensland, the Queensland Brain Institute, and the Clive Berghoffer Medical Institute.

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For the first time, this year’s prize features two vehicles – a Toyota Tundra pickup truck named ‘Dusty’, and a New Age Manta Ray 19ft expedition caravan.

NTI chief executive Tony Clark said the last time NTI raffled a new vehicle, instead of a restored classic, was an expedition truck in 2022 which set a fundraising record of $555,850.

“When deciding what vehicle to make the 2025 MND raffle prize, we thought ‘why not mix it up again?’ offering a turnkey for off-road holidays and adventuring. For the first time, the raffle prize will feature two vehicles – a pick-up and a caravan,” Clark says.

“The Tundra hybrid is the most powerful Toyota yet sold in Australia, and while ‘Dusty’ has exceptional off-road capability, the vehicle doesn’t compromise on comfort, including a 14″ multimedia display that connects with both Apple and Android devices, wireless phone charging, and dual-zone climate control.

“Dusty’s also incredibly safe, with Toyota’s Safety Sense technology that includes a pre-collision safety system that detects both pedestrians and cyclists, active cruise control, and lane departure alert with steering assist.”

Clark says the caravan was the perfect choice for adventurous couples wanting to explore more of Australia’s outback.

“The New Age Manta Ray 19ft Couples Expedition MY25 is designed for off-road durability, its features and design ensure it’s a stylish home on wheels,” Clark says.

“An ensuite with toilet and internal shower, reverse cycle air conditioning, upgraded leatherette upholstery, and a Queen size bed help to make it a dream holiday van.”

“There’s no limit to the locations you can explore; with a 7-inch Bluetooth Display, 3000W Inverter/180Amp Charger, 30Amp DC/DC Charger, and 4 x 200W solar panels to help keep all your appliances powered.

“Thanks to Walkinshaw Automotive Group and Toyota for their support in assisting us in securing these two fantastic vehicles,” he says.

NTI is dedicated to helping find treatment options for Motor Neurone Disease after former chief executive Wayne Patterson lost his battle with the disease in 2018.

“In Australia, around 2100 people live with MND, and two are diagnosed every day. It’s time to put an end to this horrible disease,” Clark says.

The prize will make its public debut at the 2025 Brisbane Truck Show, May 15-18, and the winner will be drawn Sunday, July 13 at the NTI Townsville 500 Supercars event.

The grants are administered by the MND and Me Foundation. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.raffletix.com.au/ntimndresearchraffle2025

Robert Barry

Robert Barry has been reporting on the Australasian automotive and transport sector since June 2003. A member of the New Zealand Motoring Writers Guild since 2005, Robert has also previously held the positions of secretary, vice-president and president. His work has appeared in newspapers, magazines, and on the web. He holds a Class 2 and a Class 4 heavy transport licence and knows his way around a manual transmission.

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