Their drivers in turn proved their mettle as 240 teams took part in the 2026 rally, a seven-day, 3700km drive from Adelaide to Darwin in cars worth no more than $1500.
All competing vehicles are required to be roadworthy, registered, and free of 4WD or AWD capability, and are often creatively adorned in the teams' chosen themes.
Since launching in 2010, the event has raised more than $68 million for cancer research, every team committing to raise a minimum of $5000, with all donations going directly to the Cancer Council.
Teams crossed the finish line at the Darwin Esplanade on Friday evening ahead of an auction of competing vehicles on Saturday, with the proceeds also going to cancer research.
This year's rally has already raised more than $2.4 million.
Rally founder James Freeman said the idea of the rally came about following tragedy - the loss of both his parents to cancer within a year.
"I wanted to do something that really honoured mum and dad," he told AAP.
Returning from overseas he also wanted to rediscover Australia, so he put the Shitbox Rally idea to the Cancer Councl, which gave its support.
The rally efforts have now funded more than 80 cancer research programs.
Mr Freeman said he was proud of the rally participants and his hope was the event would be held for years to come.
"I hope it well and truly outlives me."
Simon Docherty and Gareth Gumbley, who drove a 2006 Ford Falcon, listed a series of mechanical faults they endured along their journey.
But the pair were full of praise for the support staff mechanics for getting them through.
They had a muddy run up the Oodnadatta Track, slipping and sliding, and at the finish line in Darwin said they were looking forward to showers and "a big bed that isn't a swag".
Support crew member Nicki Wickham, from Sydney, is on her 20th rally and described this year's event as "very challenging" with a lot of mud and some very long days of driving.
"But it was fun," the 73-year-old told AAP.
"I'm looking forward to a hot shower, some food with proper cutlery."
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