In July Daniel Eberle was diagnosed with testicular cancer after presenting to the doctor with acute back pain, and has since undergone extensive stints of chemotherapy.   

Treatment has forced the 24-year-old to stop work as a motor mechanic, putting a huge financial strain on his partner and their three young children.

Administrator of the Ballarat SS Owners Club Roy McCracken said the event was a joint initiative of the Ballarat SS Owners Club and the Ballarat CV8 Club, and aimed to provide some financial support to the family.

“They’ve struggled for a bit now, and they’ve still got a way to go.”

The cars proceeded through Ballarat and around Lake Wendouree en route to the Gong Gong reservoir, with vehicles from Ballarat, Melbourne, Geelong, Colac and Camperdown joining the convoy.

As well as the donations made by members of the car clubs, a number of businesses have also chipped in.

Toyworld have donated a $250 voucher to assist with the families Christmas shopping, while the Victorian SS Owners Club have donated an all expenses paid night in Melbourne, including a ride on the Melbourne Star observation wheel.

“It’s all about being a big family and showing some love for the people who are doing it tough” Mr McCracken said.

Mr Eberle, who is a member of both clubs, said he had been overwhelmed by the support of the local car community, including people he didn’t know personally.

“I thought we might get 20 cars, but the response is huge.

“People we’ve known for a short amount of time have done this for us, it’s huge.”

In addition to the event over the weekend, a fundraiser will be held at the Market Hotel on Park Street on November 22, where a raffle and silent auction will take place to raise additional money for the family.

Mr Eberle said the funds would go a long way, given he was the main bread winner in the family.

“I’ve gone from being the main income earner to nothing in a short amount of time.”

Mr Eberle’s partner Tegan Neville said the support had allowed her to look forward to Christmas.

“I’ll be able to enjoy Christmas with the kids, because that was one big stress.”

But more than anything, the 24-year-old said he was looking forward to getting back into the garage to work.

“As soon as I can get back into work I will be there helping out.”