HIGH COUNTRY & BEYOND LERDERDERG CLEAN UP MT TERRIBLE HUT REBUILD STONES OUTSTATION HUT MAINTENANCE 4X4 AUSSIE MATES HIGH COUNTRY TOURING

JUNE 2017

From the President

The first six months has been a satisfy - a solution that ing and enjoyable time. And I’d like to brings tourists in but think it’s been a time where, as an still allows the many current users to Association, we have done many things. enjoy the activities they all enjoy. I think Some of these things will manifest them - there’s a lot more need for discussion selves over the coming months but and consultation before decisions are FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VICTORIA some I’m happy to tell you about here. made, but rest assured, FWDV will be The peak representative body for all Wayne Hevey, Colin Oates and I worked involved to represent a balanced view Victorian four wheel drivers since 1975 with DELWP Patrol Officers over the of our club member’s interests. Labor Day weekend on an education The Board spent a day and night at Victoria Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs Inc. patrol, and that was an eye-opener. I Upper Yarra National Park recently PO Box 292 Mitcham Vic 3132 was with a young ranger in the new G- where we spent time discussing our Phone 03 9874 7222 Wagon and on the first day we put out 7 strategic plan. We haven’t done this Fax 03 9874 7233 campfires that were alight and since 2013 and a lot has changed. Ken Email [email protected] unattended, and we took details from Robinson facilitated the day and we Website www.fwdvictoria.org.au many people who were not doing the worked through a number of issues in ABN 40 891 301 368 right thing. This included leaving particular discussing how we would ASSN A0013539S rubbish around camp sites to driving incorporate our ongoing needs with the RTO 21605 off-road, including up the Avon River. Strategic Plan we’ve developed together Print Post PP 100005076 We saw similar things on the last day of with our land managers. This task is BOARD OF MANAGEMENT our patrol as well and the lessons for obviously ongoing and I will be me were very clear around the need to communicating the outcomes as soon EXECUTIVE educate people in the right things to do as we have them in a suitable form for President when camping in our forests as well as distribution. It is critical that as an Garry Doyle Vice President providing as much compliance support organisation we become fully self- Michael Martin Secretary to DELWP and Parks to undertake these sufficient and less reliant on funding. At Treasurer Christopher Whiteside Brian Lewis patrols to educate people. The the same time we need to keep in mind BOARD MEMBERS message we gave was clear and most the interests of our clubs and our people took what we had to say very members. It’s a balancing act we can Lou Catherine, Chris Kershaw, Michael well. By the way, a fire is out when it is certainly manage. Coldham, Kat Mamara-Stewart cold to touch and the only way to do The Rules sub-committee of the Board STAFF this is with water, not soil. has also been meeting to discuss the Chief Executive Officer We had a meeting with a number of Association Rules and they too are Office Administrator Wayne Hevey Accounts Alison McLaughlin land users as well to get an understand - close to having a version ready for Projects &K Eavrle Nnotrsm Oan fficer ing of the Great Victorian National Park distribution. There are many changes Myles Brown proposal and to see where others were suggested and some of them are major, TRACKWATCH on this topic. The evening started out however all of them will enable the Editor with a little tension as you could Association to grow. Many of the Email Brian Tanner imagine, however when all sides were changes tidy up the rules from the past Individeudaitlo [email protected] org.au heard, there appeared that there could and will mean less confusion and be possibilities for a mutual understand - misinterpretation. These will also be Brian Tanner, Robert Norman, Alison ing of the issues. As far as I understand circulated for discussion and if accept - Williams, Greg Rose, Henry Verhoeven, things, this is not a proposal by able will be put to the next Annual Robert Higgins, Nigel Woods, Shez Tedford, Government but rather a proposal put General Meeting for a vote. Dave Roberts, Myles Brown. by an interest group. They want to Production I’ll finish here but would like to add that I Brian Tanner provide economic stimulus for towns mentioned having a President’s meeting Copy Deadline next issue and settlements together with protection in May, however the weekends have got of endangered species in the region away from me and I’d like to spend 1st August for September 2017 issue where the loss of logging has meant 1st November for December 2017 issue more time in the planning. We will have small towns are suffering. I personally 1st February for March 2018 issue a President’s meeting when we have the don’t have a problem with this as the Advertising crucial documents mentioned earlier [email protected] cause and neither did a lot of people at available for distribution. We will the meeting. What we did have a All material appearing in Trackwatch magazine is copyright. however circulate a letter to Presidents Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without problem with was the proposed solution. with a deeper explanation of what we prior written consent. Freelance contributions and submis - The National Park solution will actually sions are welcome by this magazine. No responsibility is have in our plans to seek feedback and accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, etc. The lock out a lot of land users from pursuing hopefully full support. Oh, by the way, opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those their favourite activities. This includes of Four Wheel Drive Victoria. All statements made, although I’ve also been spending time in the based on information believed to be reliable and accurate, us. The argument that a National Park bush and travelling to marvelous South cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accept - will provide additional tourism bringing ed for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to Australia and the Coffin Bay National omit or alter any article or advertisement. Advertisers agree with it economic benefit doesn’t stack Park – what a wonderful place to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising up if so many people are locked out from the published material. especially if you like seafood. Design and Artwork by Brian Tanner from their usual pursuits. After all, they can use the area now. What we need is Garry Doyle Cover Photo by Robert Norman President TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 1 1:35 PM > News

Dry Hills Track Inspection

Dry Hills Track is in State Forest in the is, being soft and wet, they are suscep - and discuss solutions. Accompanied by Southern Alps area. It runs in a generally tible to a range of threats, including Paul Brooker and Jeremy Reynolds from north/south orientation and parallels climate change, increased fire frequency, DELWP, vehicles were driven to the Moroka Road. From the northern end it cattle, horses, deer, weeds, ski infra - problem section and then an inspection starts at a point near Doolans Plains structure, dams, roads and aqueducts. was made on foot. The wheel ruts cut Road on the Moroka Road and ends There are some things we can't directly into the soft peat were very deep and near McFarlane Saddle. The track is do much about, like climate change. holding water in places altering the only a few kilometres long and has no Other things are well within our control. natural drainage pattern. specific destination. For most of its Vehicles, for example, can make a real DELWP have a proposal to close and length it is only a few hundred metres mess of peatlands, like the one at Dry rehabilitate the track and Four Wheel from Moroka Road. Some of the track Hills Track near the Moroka Road. Drive Victoria, as a key stakeholder has a solid base with some rocky Because the peatlands are soft and wet, group with an excellent partnership with components, however it largely traverses vehicles will form deep ruts that drain land managers, is part of the public sensitive peatland. away a lot of the water that the peatland consultation process. The track has very little vehicle traffic needs. Over time, the peatland will Wayne Hevey, CEO, FWDV comments but even a small number of vehicles are shrink in size, with bits converting to that; causing problems to the track and the grassland or shrubland. The peatland “From a four-wheel driving point of view, surrounding peatland. can't function as well as it did, is more there is no need for this track to be susceptible to weed invasion, and is A report from Dr. Arn Tolsma from used as the Moroka Road takes traffic more likely to be burnt deeply in any DELWP’s Arthur Rylah Institute explains from and to the same locations. We the situation. future fire”. acknowledge the damaging effects of “Peatlands have numerous important Recently Wayne Hevey, Four Wheel vehicles using the track through functions, including storing water, Drive Victoria CEO and Greg Rose, observing what is a very sensitive wet regulating stream flow at a local level, FWDV Regional Representative, area. We also thank the land managers stabilising mountain catchments, Southern Alpine National Park, were for allowing the conversation to occur filtering out sediments, nutrients and invited by James Noonan, DELWP with the relevant parties present as pathogens, and adding stuff like organic Senior Forest Management and Roading stated in our MOU.” carbon to stream headwaters. So they Officer – Macalister, to inspect the track are useful as well as pretty. Only trouble and view the current level of damage Greg Rose.

addressed a range of concerns that formal training Telstra staff are not had been raised by the State permitted to use their 4WD vehicles in In brief Associations. low range, and a blanket ban is in force National Conference Of interest, 4WD Australia has been on the use of the winches their vehicles FWDV President, Garry Doyle, together developing an insurance product to are often fitted with. with CEO, Wayne Hevey, recently protect affiliated 4WD clubs and their Accredited driving courses have also attended the National Body’s (FWDA) members across Australia on the basis been booked for the Game quarterly meeting in Perth. Their aim that a nation-wide product would be Management Authority in the near was to both represent the interest of more cost effective than individual state future, and chainsaw courses are once Victorian members and to seek a better policies. While the draft policy still again on offer. understanding of the activities and needs fine tuning the Association's Prior to the content and structure of finances of the national body. FWDV management believes that, if it shows a RTO courses being overhauled by the contribute approximately $13,000 marked benefit for all our members, it responsible authority, training courses annually towards the running of 4WD will be duly considered. were a valuable source of revenue for Australia and the Board felt the need to the Association. With courses coming ensure the Association's ongoing back on stream and interest being involvement represents value for RTO Courses for Telstra expressed by large corporates like money. The Association is currently conducting Telstra, management hope they will The conference was successful from 4WD training courses for Telstra staff once again form a reliable income the viewpoint of FWDV in that it out of Mansfield. Interestingly, without stream for the Association.

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 3

News Marathon Road – Proposed Upgrading > The high level of partnership, From a land manager’s point of view the sensitive to the geology and ecology of consultation and co-operation between narrow and steep section prevents work the area. The rehabilitation of the redun - our public land managers (Department crews quickly accessing the area. This dant road section would be undertaken. of Environment, Land, Water and is particularly important in times of fire, The proposed route has gentler grades Planning and Parks Victoria) and Four like the recent Crooked River fire. Heavy and would be easily maintained. Wheel Drive Victoria has been machinery has to be floated all the way The benefits in terms of better manage - highlighted by recent discussions on the round via Licola adding many hours to ment and emergency access to the area upgrading of Marathon Road in Central the deployment time and increased cost would be enormous. In a bush fire Gippsland. to the government agencies. The same situation the two wheel drive route would Marathon Road runs from the Valencia constraints are put on emergency provide a safe alternative way out of the Creek-Briagalong Road (just out of the service vehicles. Two wheel drive mountains for members of the public. small township of Briagalong) north to access would enable police vehicles With the economic difficulties the Moroka Road. From an elevation of 70 and ambulances from Stratford, Maffra Latrobe Valley and Central Gippsland metres above sea level at its start the or Sale to reach a search and rescue or towns are facing; created by the road heads into the Alps with a accident scene quickly. Hazelwood Power Station closure, the maximum elevation of nearly 1300 Wayne Hevey, Four Wheel Drive Victoria proposed closing of the Australian metres. At its northern end the road CEO and Greg Rose, FWDV Regional Sustainable Hardwoods timber mill at provides access to some fantastic Representative, Southern Alpine Heyfield and the low prices dairy farm - tourist and four wheel drive destinations; National Park, recently visited Marathon ers are currently receiving for their milk, the Pinnacles with the spectacular views Road with Jim Noonan, DELWP Senior communities need all the support they from the unique fire observation tower, Forest Management and Roading can get from tourism. An upgrade of the iconic Billy Goat Bluff Track, historic Officer, Jeremy Reynolds, DELWP Marathon Road to two wheel drive, Moroka Hut, the picturesque Horseyards Forest Management and Roading creating a round trip touring route, camping area beside the Moroka River Officer and Paul Brooker, DELWP Forest suitably promoted, would have lasting and walks to the falls in Moroka Gorge, Management and Roading Officer. economic benefits for the Central McFarlane Saddle and the walk into Tali Discussions were also held in Heyfield Gippsland and Latrobe Valley regions. Karng, Moroka Range Track and the with Beth Roberts, DELWP District For four wheel drivers the route would rocky four wheel drive track to the 1634 Manager and Mike Dower, Parks provide rapid access to some of the metre summit of Mt Wellington and Victoria Area Chief Ranger, Foothills and best tracks and camping spots in the Millers Hut. Southern Alps. alps and could form a leg of longer An excellent round trip of a few days is On site, the plans for re-routing of part tours to places like Wonnangatta Valley, to start after fueling up and buying of Marathon Road were discussed and Caledonia River Track, etc. supplies at Heyfield or Licola and spend mapping studied. It is interesting to note It is hoped that the value of this a night at one of the many beautiful that on page 197 of the 1992 “Alpine proposal to land managers, tourists, four campsites along the Wellington River. National Park Management Plan – wheel drivers, emergency personnel These sites generally have a pit toilet Wonnangatta Moroka Unit” it says, and local communities will be recog - and some fire rings and tables. The next “The section of Marathon Road which nised and funding made available for night, camp at Thomastown or along currently restricts the use of 2WD Marathon Road to receive the attention it Kelly Lane beside Shaw Creek. A third vehicles will be upgraded to all-weather needs. night at the Horseyards and then home 2WD standard, as a high priority”. down Marathon Road stopping for a The proposed route would cross from Greg Rose. coffee or a meal at Briagalong, Stratford State Forest into the Alpine National Four Wheel Drive Victoria Regional or Maffra to top off a great journey. This Park managed by Parks Victoria and be Representative, Alpine National Park. route offers some fantastic scenery and some side trip opportunities to explore superb walking and four wheel drive In brief tracks of varying standards and a chance to try for an elusive trout. TGhoe vAessroncmiatieon th aRs erepgruelasr emneetatintgios nwsith various government departments at the The problem, however, is a short three highest level. This ensures member's interests are considered when planning and kilometre section of Marathon Road. policy decisions are made that impact on 4WD activities. A recent meeting has Nearly all the road is in good two wheel been held with the Honorable Lisa Neville (Minister for Water and Police) and a drive condition easily maintained by a report presented to the Honorable Lily D'Ambrosio (Minister for Energy, grader. At Bleak Hill, aptly named if you Environment and Climate Change) regarding the contribution affiliated 4WD clubs are there in wet and snowy weather, the have made through programs such as Camp Host, Clean up the Bush and track road narrows to a four wheel drive only clearing. section. While not especially steep it can As part of the Association's funding grant, a commitment was made to DELWP that be a challenge when it is wet and slip - FWDV clubs would contribute 2,500 man hours of voluntary program work over the pery. The track can become very rutted 2016/2017 financial year. At present member clubs have provided 10,500 hours of with some large rocks and slick clay to their time plus another 3,000 hours that involved 225,000km in travelling to and contend with. In dry seasons the surface from those volunteer activities. It is performance like this that underpins the tends to break up causing traction ongoing preparedness of the government to consider the Association's position on issues. There is also a Seasonal matters that impact its members. Closure, with a gate near the narrow The Association is looking to revive the "Recover Me Please" program that was section of the road. The Season Closure trialed for 18 months prior to 2012. During the time the program was previously in is due to the nature of the surface and force, participating clubs received not only the warm gratitude of those they the possibility of significant track recovered but also earned valuable revenue. damage if vehicles use it in the wetter winter months. TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 5 heavily involved in this consultation and several FWDV representatives joined decision making process if it comes to with DELWP compliance staff to visit News fruition. numerous campsites in the High > Country from Colquhuon Forest through OLuarn mde mUbseersr ms aMy heaevtei nheg ard of the to Swifts Creek, Aberfeldy and the concept being muted as the Great The Victorian Environment McAlister area. The aim of the weekend National Forest Park. FWDV recently Assessment Council was to demonstrate to the Association facilitated a meeting of 16 various Another example of the Association representatives the level of what can Associations and interested parties making its voice heard is VEAC. For only be described as 'bad behaviour' concerned about their ongoing access those who haven't heard of this body, its exhibited by some members of the in this region. The Association is keen to role is to investigate requests by the public and to seek the Association's have its members' access protected in Government relating to the protection support in DELWP's push for greater respect of existing tracks that will be and ecologically sustainable manage - powers in dealing with offenders. covered by the proposed Park. We ment of the environment and natural Needless to say numerous examples of heard that this Park is proposed (not resources of public land. fires left unattended, inappropriate from within Government at this stage) to The Association, represented by camping and rubbish left where it fell reinvigorate the towns in the area since Michael Coldham, is one of 13 members were observed. Where caught in the forestry activities have left the region. that provide input to VEAC. This act, offenders registration numbers were Our belief is that reinvigoration is an membership covers a very diverse noted and they were advised that if admirable objective and that we can range of interests including environmen - follow-up checks showed rubbish had contribute to this, BUT we must have talists, farmers, indigenous peoples, not been removed or fires extinguished consultation and seek a solution that forestry, local government and tourism. infringement notices would be issued. meets the needs of all the parties Given some of these groups could be involved. There is no decision by the considered to have incompatible goals and policies, VEAC must surely Andrews Government in respect of TFhWe ADsVso cGiaetionne'sr aGle nMereale Mtienegting held creation of the Park, but with a State experience its share of robust discussions! at Warragul on 25 March 2017 was election next year it is undoubtedly a attended by 15 clubs. A highlight was move where the Government could President Garry Doyle's presentation of hope to gain some political mileage and FWDV and DELWP conduct the Association's strategic plan for the improve its environmental credentials. joint compliance exercise next 5 to 10 years. The report was We are aware that we need to be Over the recent Labour Day weekend positively received by the meeting.

6 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH Club Spotlight >MELBOURNE JEEP OWNERS Black Spur Inn Narbethong, a beauti - CLUB CELEBRATES 20 YEAR ful location deep in the Yarra Ranges, well organised to cater for such an ANNIVERSARY event. Saturday night saw over 100 members enjoy a sumptuous dinner Established in April 1997, the masterfully prepared by the staff at Melbourne Jeep Owners Club has just the inn, culminating in a rousing celebrated its 20th anniversary at a chorus of “Happy Birthday” as a huge Jeep Muster over the ANZAC celebratory cake was cut. long weekend. Over 50 Jeeps Also attending the dinner was club gathered in Narbethong to drive the member and Four Wheel Drive trails in the local ranges. Victoria Board Member Kathryn President Rob Mackechnie Mamara-Stewart, who presented the commented “This weekend has been club with a plaque commemorating a resounding success, a true example the event and thanking MJOC for its Melbourne Jeep Owners President of the Jeep lifestyle comprising trips, ongoing membership and support to Rob Mackechnie was presented with camping, social activities and promoting the four wheel drive a congratulatory plaque by FWDV comaraderie, all with the common lifestyle. Board Member Kathryn Mamara- love of life in the great outdoors and Melbourne Jeep Owners Club is one Stewart the freedom a Jeep brings to get of the most active 4x4 clubs in there, and back. We had fantastic Australia, and can be often seen in attendance from club members and convoy heading off to some of their families over the weekend. There Victoria's many scenic off road were also 2 founding members tracks. The club has many experi - attending, now life members of the enced trip leaders who run trips from club.” easy and leisurely scenic drives in Day trips over the weekend covered the country on easy and moderate Lunch break on a day trip during the the full spectrum of skill levels, tracks, to more challenging and Melbourne Jeep Owners Club 20th ranging from easy drives through the sometimes extreme trails. Training is Anniversary Muster Yarra Valley, to challenging slippery offered to members in the basics of hill climbs, rocky ascents, and the four wheel driving, upgrading to always popular night trips. Jeeps advanced techniques, trip leading and attending covered the last 20 years of other useful skills such as first aid Jeep four wheel drive production, and safe use of chainsaws. The club with a large number of Wranglers welcomes members with any level of (both TJ and JK), Grand Cherokees, driving experience, as it is through Commanders, Cherokee XJs and the events such as this and training, that latest KL model. All well capable of drivers can build their skills and truly tackling the terrain. get the most from their vehicles. The muster was based at the historic

Preparing convoys at the Black Spur Inn

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 7 RIP: Sean Thomas - Peninsula 4x4 Club > He was a good bush mechanic too. I still remember it like it was yesterday whilst we were doing some of the MVO tracks at Bunyip State Park, when he blew the crossover pipe (80 Series Duel Fuel) off once again. He pulls over and calls out “who’s got a spare stubby holder,” then he asked one of us to grab He was a member of our club the zip ties from his drawers at the back “Peninsula 4x4” and being a young and dives under the bonnet; 5 mins later club, we may have only known him for a problem solved. short time. However, after the time we He was also the type of bloke that when spent out on the tracks, it felt like we someone was bogged and needed help had known each other a lifetime, he was he was not scared to get in there, get one of those people that once you got dirty and help out wherever he could. If to know him you felt like you had known on the other hand he got bogged he him for such a long time. was always willing to listen to any ideas The times we spent out on the tracks that might work to get himself unstuck. was always a pleasure we would always Sean driving a Cruiser was never too egg each other on and if it wasn’t us shy to give the Patrol drivers heaps and egging each other on it was our wives could take it as good as he gave. One egging us/each other on, which would of the jokes I did hear one day was On behalf of Peninsula 4x4 Club it is sometimes lead to some crazy things “(Q)What do you find on the second with a heavy heart that I write of the happening, but it was always safety page of a Patrol Workshop manual? (A) passing of a good mate that so tragical - first. A Bus Timetable.” ly died at the young age of twenty five Sean Thomas we will miss you but you on Anzac Day the 25th of April this year. I also copped a fair share of ragging as will forever live in our hearts, RIP Mate. I drive a Zook (Suzuki Vitara) but I gave Sean Thomas was a great husband, Our condolences to Keisha, Tamara and it to him just as he gave it to me. One and great father to his daughter and to Bump. time we decided to have a crack at a his unborn child due in August. He was P.S. Mate, I hope you find some gnarly favourite bog hole, well I got through also a good mate. tracks in heaven and give them a good once, but Sean gave it his best with two crack. Sean was the sort of mate that was attempts. Let’s just say the score was always keen to get out on the tracks, he “Bog hole 2, Sean 0”, but he was not RIP - Sean Thomas was one of those types of blokes that too proud to have a Zook get him out, 16/3/1992 to 25/4/2017 was willing to give just about anything a even though there was another Cruiser go within reason, unless he felt it was there that could have pulled him out, but Robert Higgins too dangerous or would endanger his that’s Sean for you, happy to ask for Peninsula 4x4 Club family. help when needed. Trip Coordinator.

ADVANCE NOTICE

Applications are now invited for drivers in Standard and Touring classes. (Note each vehicle requires a driver and navigator).

Entry fees: Competitor $135 Navigator $65 Non competitor $50 Children under 15 $35 Children under 5 Free Day visitor $15 Entries close 31st August 2017 Early Bird Saver: Save 10% for entries received before 16th July 2017 For details visit: www.cruiserkhana.com.au 27-29th OCTOBER 2017

8 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH task was to clean up any we could see Club Spotlight along the tracks; it amazed us where some people had lit a fire. > Our first fireplace was at the top of Mt Blackwood where we found just a small pile of charcoal in the middle of the carpark. Whilst we were cleaning we had a terrific panoramic view of the You Yangs and Melbourne. We drove along O’Briens Road, stop - ping as soon as a fireplace was spot - ted. The children had a lovely time throwing the rocks back into the bush; some of the fires were very clean and we could just scatter the charcoal over the nearby bush, others we bagged everything as they contained a lot of glass, melted plastic and metal. The ground was raked and then covered in leaves and debris. As we left each site, we looked back and it was hard to tell where the fireplace had been. We left a few well-constructed rock fireplaces that were in large open clearings, working on the premise that if we took them away someone would quickly build another before the rangers had time to put in the concrete slabs for Lerderderg State Park Clean Up their fireplaces. In the large clearing beside the river on Amblers Track, we Toyota Land Cruiser Club return for second clean up project condensed a few fireplaces into one as we could see it was a large, well utilised Continuing our community support, the clearing. On Upper Chadwick Track TLCCV returned to complete what we someone had made a large fire on a started on “Clean up Australia Day.” Dozer run off on a down hill slope, other It was a beautiful sunny Autumn day fires had been made in areas that were when we met Parks Vic Ranger, Charlie, heavily vegetated. at Federation Park in Bacchus Marsh. Parks Vic are building a new campsite We had a great group of willing helpers, on Upper Chadwick Track, a large nine vehicles in total. clearing beside Diggers Creek. Toilets Charlie led the convoy along the are already installed, obviously already Blackwood Ranges Track, an MVO track a popular camping spot, it won’t be long running along the top of the range. until more people know about it. We Stopping a few times to check the fox cleared 4 large fireplaces and a few traps, there had been a lot of activity, smaller ones. and as this part of the park is close to All of the children had a great day grazing land, Parks Vic are being very discovering tree hollows, fungi and neighbourly and taking care of vermin. paddling in the Lerderderg River. The last major fire in the Lerderderg was Although we had a task to complete, we in 1983 and you can still see the scars all had a lovely relaxing day through on top of the range. 34 years after the some wonderful bush that is so close to fire, the eucalypts are less than 2 In Lerderderg State Park, fires are only Melbourne. metres high. permitted in constructed fireplaces. Our Alison Williams, TLCCV

TRACKWATCH CONTRIBUTIONS NOTICE TO MEMBERS Contributions to Trackwatch are welcomed. They should relate to a Did you know there is a Member’s Login section to the FWDV Website? club activity, interesting destination, Every FWDV affiliated club member has a Username. If you are unaware of yours, historic event, etc. please send us an email to [email protected] and we will reply with your 1. Type your story in Word with Username. appropriate paragraphs and headings. No fancy fonts, colours, borders or Resources including Permit Applications for Mt Skene and MVO track access and imbeded photos in a single document. Trip Leader information and forms are all available once you login. You can also 2. Photos need to be of good quality keep your personal profile up to date. and high resolution. Do not resize, crop or embed as part of the story. To complete the process once you have your Username, just head to the website Send images as separate jpeg files. www.fwdvictoria.org.au type in your Username then follow the prompts as though you have forgotten your password. It’s easy … and worthwhile. Ed

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 9 The new Amarok V6 TDI. Do you remember what power feels like?

The V6 is back and it’s back in a big way. The latest generation 3.0 litre V6 TDI engine produces aTough class leading comes 165kW from of within.power and 550 Nm of torque. With the Overboost feature, that reaches up to 180kW—perfect for overtaking. And of course, there’s more stopping power, too. The Amarok V6 is the only ute in its class with front and rear ventilated disc brakes for improved braking performance. With brilliant new features and legendary Amarok toughness, the thrill of driving a V6 has finally returned.

10 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH

4WD Activity ster > ga Mu 4WD Me

lot of interest from the public about 4WD MegaMuster 22 – 23 April FWDV, and we kept busy for the day. State Motorcycle Sports Centre The weather was warm and sunny and Broadford Dark clouds scudded across the skies the people kept coming. and a chill breeze cut through as Myles Soon it was time for the world record and Dave arrived early on Saturday attempt to be verified. Four wheel drives morning at the State Motorcycle Sports had been assembling on the track all Complex at Broadford to set up for the morning, snaking their way around 4WD MegaMuster. Run as a fund raiser beyond the immediate line of sight. for the Scouts, it was to bring all things four wheel drive together, and also to continued attempt to assemble the largest number beyond what was reasonable. of four wheel drives together at the Early Sunday morning, we same place and time. FWDV were applied the finishing touches to invited along by DELWP in support of the display, when we were joined our growing relationship. by Kat Marmara-Stewart from After we were shown to our site, which The count came in. The record stood at FWDV, Richard Wadsworth and Mick had been relocated due to heavy rain more than 3,500, set eight years ago in Appleton from DELWP Forest Fire the previous day and overnight, we set Puerto Rico. Sadly the record was not Management. Mick brought with him two about erecting the partnerships broken, with just 343 vehicles being amazing “toys” which proved to be (DELWP, PV & FWDV) brand new mar - counted. Despite this, it showed the assets as drawcards to our stand. A quee and setting up our display. This spirit that four wheel drivers generally Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen fire tanker, went up quickly and easily and looked show in community spirit in supporting and a mighty Unimog. Standing nearly quite impressive, with its printed edge this event. Who knows, if held again the 12 feet tall and weighing in at more than around the roof. The clouds cleared, the record may be broken. 14 tonnes, this vehicle stood out “head day was warming, and jackets were Although falling short of expectations on and shoulders” above the crowd. soon dispensed with. The trailer was the numbers attending, it was a worth - Pyalong CFA also provided a Land unloaded and the display set up. As this while effort in informing so many people Cruiser slip-on tanker for our stand as only took a couple of hours, it left the about FWDV. Presenting the Association well. It certainly drew curious lookers afternoon free to go and discover what in such a favourable light hopefully who then were engaged in conversation else was around. Many exhibitors were provided the public with a better under - about FWDV, who we are and what we still to arrive or were in the process of standing the benefits of belonging to a do, our partnerships with various setting up. Although the numbers club and the Association. Raising the agencies, especially Parks Victoria and present were low, it was an opportunity profile of FWDV and strengthening our DELWP, and the clubs we represent. to talk to those there, and do a bit of partnerships is only ever good for us all. Although not overwhelming, there was a connecting. In the evening, the Scouts put on a catered meal. Delicious melt-in-your- mouth roast and vegies with gravy, spuds in their jackets with sour cream, and oh-so-soft bread rolls. The convivial atmosphere around the tables, meeting with other club members and various exhibitors, and sharing in wide ranging conversations, was a fitting way to wind down at the end of the day. But there was more on offer. A number of bands provided entertainment for those staying for the night, including music legend, James Blundell. By now, it was cooling, jackets went back on, and many stood around fires warming themselves, listening to the music. As the night wore on, most drifted off to bed, although there were a few who TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 11 4X4 Aussie Action and A

country life. they're brothers, though What ha ppens when It’s fun, heart warming, thrilling, and Tristan sees himself as the crazy at times, but 4X4 Aussie Mates better brother; an all-round four Aussie mates will make for riveting viewing and be champion of a bloke. We shall an inspiration for the younger see. jump in their 4WDs generation to get off their phones Jack Bennett is all beaches, and set out across and into this great country of ours. flip flops and dreadlocks. He’s Filmed in 2016 and early 2017, the a cheery tradie with a love for Australia taking on show features four mates travelling mates and off-roading. across Australia using car radios to Sean Slevison is the wildcard some of the capture their banter. The show is novice who’s learnt pretty anchored and narrated by seasoned much all he knows about toughest outback 4WD adventurer Myles Brown. Myles 4WDs from TV. challenges? outlines upcoming destinations and Director Richard Brown is Well, a lot of thrills, a lot of spills, and challenges aka Jeremy Clarkson, with founder and director of Sunset a lot of lessons learnt in and around his sidekicks providing much of the Films, a not for profit produc - some serious laughs! antics and humour of the show. tion company which exists to Welcome to 4X4 Aussie Mates – the Each episode will have a feature 4WD help ex media students gain helter skelter world of Myles, Tristan, challenge with accredited 4X4 experts valuable experience using Jack and Sean, four likeable lads who giving critiques and advice in a broadcast equipment. Richard love 4WDs. In this action-packed ten younger, more upbeat approach than has numerous highly success - part lifestyle TV documentary the lads other current 4X4 offerings. ful television credits to his will show us just how great (and Let's meet the main characters. name, including two series of ghastly) life can be barreling about Myles Brown grew up in a family of Pets Practice. across unforgiving terrain and adventurers and explored vast areas camping in the middle of nowhere. of Australia before he could even say Well, some of the time. Along the way Australia properly. Myles' easy going “New 4x4 documentaries to highlight and they run into (not literally) some true charm makes him the ideal ‘face’ of heartland characters more than the show. happy to share their experiences and Tristan Brown’s been pretty much promote the best of four wheeling” show the boys a thing or two about everywhere Myles has because, well,

12 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH Mates: 10 out of 10

Adventure! Visit amazing locations...

Have loads of fun along the way...

Meet the team of 4x4 Aussie Mates!

Follow our Social Media Channels for “New 4x4 documentaries to highlight and updates and more content: Instagram.com/4x4aussiemates promote the best of four wheeling” Facebook.com/4x4aussiemates www.4x4aussiemates.com Watch the whole season online on the C31 app or online at http://www.c31.org.au/series/8367

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 13 > Club Spotlight STONES OUTSTATION HUT MAINTE PROJECT

‘4WD Club members historic Alpine Hut”

14 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH Brief History: Stones Outstation is includ - ed in the Victorian Heritage Database and was built in the 1890’s. The outstation hut is constructed of timber palings lining the inside of a notched framework, with a cor - ENANCE rugated iron roof. It remains a fine exam - ple of bush carpentry. The Stone family’s grazing property in the late nineteenth century extended from the Coller Bay area to Italian Gully (off Stone Bay). The family home was on Perfect Cure Creek and they also had an outsta - tion and stockyards at Station Creek. It is recorded that Tom Stone would ride out from Alexandra by a horse drawn dray along the Devil’s River Road and on to Skyline Road to Mr Luke Doyle’s property. There he would unhitch the dray and ride the horse (with enough supplies for a few restore days) to stay at the outstation. He would muster his cattle into the stockyards* to engage in any cattle husbandry necessary. He would repeat this every two to three weeks. (*Rebuilding those stockyards is being considered as a future project between Parks Victoria (PV) and the Victorian High Country Huts Association (VHCHA). The Project: Members of the Idlers 4WD Club set off in glorious weather from a variety of Victorian domiciles on Tuesday morning, 14th March. After a rendezvous and morning tea at Alexandra, the Idlers set off for the PV Ranger’s office at Lake Eildon National Park (LENP). The Idlers ‘work crew’ consisted of 5 men and 3 women. Upon arrival at midday, and after a quick lunch, the obligatory Job Safety Analysis and Emergency Plan (JSA) was outlined by PV as the project in hand was to be in a remote part of the Fraser Block of the LENP, near Aird Inlet. Access to the pre- selected campsite, being itself some 400 metres from the Hut site, was by travelling along 7.3km of mostly ‘blue’ track with sections also being rated ‘black’, especially considering that all vehicles were towing camper trailers plus they were carrying equipment on roof racks . The terrain of the MVO tracks, viz the Blowhard Spur Track, Devass Gully Track, and Aird Inlet Track are not what you would wish to encounter after a period of wet or windy weather. Preparatory work had been carried out by PV during 2016 by accessing a number of suitable species type and sized logs required for the reconstruction. Whilst Idlers were volunteering at Fraser (LENP) during October 2016, access to those logs (for the purpose of de-barking and shifting them to site) was achieved by using PV’s own boat because of the adverse track conditions at the time. Because of PV’s concern for the environment, a ‘Port-a- Loo’ was provided for Idlers’ convenience, TRACKWATCH JUNE 2017 15 BUT a mainstay of Idlers existence, happy hour around the campfire, was snuffed out because of the fire restrictions. Following an ‘on site’ audit Wednesday: conducted by PV’s Project Manager, all materials and equipment were carried to the Hut ready for the start of some very serious work. Although remedial work had been carried out on the Hut by other groups in 2002, 2003 and 2007, the unavailability of the correct enduring timber species was proving detrimental to the Hut’s survival. In particular, the very original chimney was ‘on its way out’, and took very little effort to dismantle. With the aid of specialist VHCHA propping equipment, the east wall was secured with new posts prepared and fitted after the ladies had firstly treated them against wood rot. All salvageable palings that had been removed to access the structural timbers were de-nailed ready for re-use. Two Perspex panels were removed ready for cutting to shape for future refitting as ‘windows’ to more reflect the took to each sheet with a sledge-ham - with metal sheeting to protect it against 1890’s. mer to give them that authentic ‘old unwelcome fires. Other sheeting was It was now time to replace time’ look. When the need for even bent to shape in readiness for the next Thursday: the middle timbers in the west wall and more pre-loved galvanised iron became day’s installation. Meanwhile, the inter - pull out the support posts holding obvious, an overnight trip back to nal walls had the palings re-installed to up(??) the entire south wall. The Melbourne to source more was warrant - make the building ‘habitable’ once propping equipment ensured that the ed. again. The ladies took to the In view of the predicted weath - entire roof structure did not collapse, Saturday: Sunday: but hardhats were definitely the fashion ‘antiquing’ of the newly arrived metal er for the following days, the fact that look for the day. It was imperative that with gusto after which time they spent the project was now running several the roof structure be tied down to the several hours doing some track clear - days ahead of schedule was a blessing. supporting posts as each one was ing/pruning with a PV Ranger. Upon The arrival of the VHCHA Hut installed. That was achieved by using their return, they put their minds (and Maintenance Officer on the day with the pre-loved and rust-stained fencing wire bodies) to clearing the site of all the old hard to find (but matching) ‘period’ door (for authenticity) and tying a ‘butterfly’ materials that lay about. Meanwhile, the handles was timely, with her partner fencing knot to secure each. The men got into the swing of things by then being seconded into replacing the arduous job of cutting log into slabs building the chimney’s timber framework fireplace paving. Meanwhile, Idlers put ready for use on the chimney’s external and fitting the vertical split logs that the final touches to the chimney, fitted face started and continued for several were used to recreate that original nine - the ‘windows’ and sills, fitted the metal days. The old door was rehung so that it teenth century’ look. These were placed grill to deter the use of the fireplace…… could now swing open/closed and clear on ‘sectioned out’ horizontal logs as had and lined up for the obligatory photo the brick threshold. After suitable been the originals, although nearly all opportunity. After that, it was time to temporary propping of the roof, replace - trace of those had been lost to wood pack up the many tools that had found ment of a portion of the ridge beam was rot. The inside of the chimney was lined their way onto site. effected. Another of the pleasant aspects of Idlers working with PV is the chance to mingle with the general LENP staff over a BBQ lunch. It is maybe only a small gesture, but it is an appreciated one that now seems to have become a firm tradition. Because the timber structure of Friday: the old chimney was a total loss, it was imperative that the reconstruction be as true to the original as was possible. Post holes were re-dug in identical positions to the old and the 2 major support posts installed. Although a small amount of the metal cladding was re-usable, to make the replacement metal cladding look authentic a scheme was devised where a 4WD would drive backwards and forwards over the ‘new’ corrugated iron to flatten it out and then the ladies

16 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH Because of some overnight Monday: rain, we broke up camp early and headed for home before the tracks out became unsafe to travel on. All in all, a job well done by the following volunteers. Iris & Ned Cunningham Idlers: (Werribee), George McBain (Geelong), Jean & Greg McDonald (Benalla), Maree Wells & Geoff Pontin (Hastings), Henry Verhoeven (Steels Creek) - team leader Shez & Warren Tedford VHCHA: (Geelong) Bonnie Parks Victoria staff: Abbottsmith Youl

Media link: http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/about- us/news/historic-hut-restored-in-lale-eil- don-national-park

DISCOVER THE 2017 LAND ROVER RANGE

Gippsland Land Rover LMCT: 11552 497 Princes Drive, Morwell. Tel: 5134 1422. www.gippsland.landrover.com.au TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 17

TTRRAAIINNIINNGG CCOOUURRSSEESS 22001177 BOOK ONLINE Open to all club members, the general public and corporate organisations. Browse courses online at www.fwdv ictoria.org.au and call the office to book on (03) 9874 7222

PROFICIENCY COURSES WINTER DRIVING COURSE

Friday 2nd June - PC17063 - Theory Friday 4th August - PC170806 Saturday 3rd June - PC17063 - Practical Saturday 5th August - PC170806 Tuesday 25th July - PC170729 - Theory Sunday 6th August - PC170806 Saturday 29th July - PC170729 - Practical Training Course Refund Policy Tuesday 15th August - PC170819 - Theory Situations occur where for various reasons courses are cancelled by Four Wheel Drive Victoria (FWDV) or students need to cancel. Below describes the refund policy that is applicable. Saturday 19th August - PC170819 - Practical If students are unable to attend the course that they are registered for, the Fee refunds: following refund fees below apply: Tuesday 12th September - PC170916 - Theory • 30 days prior - less 10% of course cost; • 29 days – 15 days - less 25% of course cost; • 14 days to 8 days - less 50% of course cost; • 7 days prior - no refund allowed Refund applications must be made in writing to FWDV. Saturday 16th September -PC170916 -Practical FWDV agree that they will allow for one transfer in a 12 month period to another course date without penalty, with a minimum of 8 days notice, (see below). Students can transfer to any other course up to 8 working days Tuesday 17th October - PC171021 - Theory Transfer to other courses: prior to commencement at no cost. Students transferring to another course 7 working days or less prior to commencement will be required to pay a transfer fee of $50 Saturday 21st October - PC17021 - Practical FWDV will make a full refund of all fees paid should a course be Course Cancellations: discontinued. FWDV reserves the right to cancel a course if a minimum number of partici - Tuesday 14th November - PC171118 - Theory pants are not achieved or for Occupational Health and Safety reasons. Should the students desire to take an alternative course with FWDV, fees will be fully transferrable to that Saturday 18th November - PC171118 - Practical course, for one transfer in a 12 month period. In the event of a course for which the student was enrolled being unavailable or no acceptable alternative course is available, fees are fully refundable. Tuesday 1st December - PC171202 - Theory Saturday 2nd December - PC171202 -Practical FOR ALL BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES PHONE (03) 9874 7222 or email: [email protected]

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TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 19 > 4x4 Destination

AUSTRALIA DAY 2017 Iconic Tracks Victorian High Country

9.00am Australia Day Thursday morn - mountain with his 80 Series Land range from the start. Because we left ing, Mark, Kim, Charlotte and Taylor Cruiser. Shortly after Mark, Michelle and before everyone else sharing the camp - Delosa, Erin & Gibbo Duff, Shane and Steph Liddle from the Mildura 4WD Club ground, we got to the top and enjoyed Erynne leave Action 4WD Warragul rolled into camp via Tea Tree Track and the view for a while. The weather was headed for Eaglevale campground on Eaglevale Track. Thursday night was a perfect, we were above the clouds, the Wonnangatta River. The plan was to pretty social night but most retired sitting on a rocky mountain ridge as have lunch and to commandeer an area reasonably early while other more social wide as a one way track with a sheer to set up a base camp. It was a pretty characters enjoyed the opportunity to drop on each side, blue sky and easy run in but a dusty drive down catch up. through the scattered clouds the view of Crooked River Road into Eaglevale. Friday morning 8,00am we left mountain ranges as far as the eye could Once we arrived it was pretty obvious Eaglevale to tackle our first iconic track, see. A view some people will never get we were not the only ones who had this Billy Goats Bluff. The more social char - even an opportunity to see in their life idea. We drove from one end to the acters from the night before let us know time, while it may be in our back yard it other for a quick scout and were greet - they’d catch up. It took us approx. doesn’t let you take for granted what ed by a lovely lady from the Pajero 4WD 35mins to get to the bottom of Billy we’ve got access to. From there we Club who kindly suggested we should Goats where we made some final headed onto The Pinnacles, a short choose another area of the camp adjustment to the vehicles and got walk up to the fire tower where you ground as 19 Pajeros were soon to straight into it, literally we were in low stand at an elevation of approx. 1500m arrive. We adhered to this advice and managed to snag the only spot left on the river, and not a moment too soon as plenty of others came in behind us. Once we were set up and eating lunch enjoying the sunshine we soon noticed a large quite healthy Black Angus bull was also sharing this beautiful camp ground. While it was a different and intimidating sight it was obvious if we left him alone he would simply stand in the shade 300m away and watch the world go by. About 3.00pm Whytie and Grace made their way down Eaglevale track from Wonnangatta followed by a Subaru Outback being driven by life member Graeme Dowsett and partner Kerryn. It wasn’t long before Whytie enlightened us about towing the Subaru over the

20 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH with 360 degree view of the area. You can see down to the Wonnangatta Valley and up to Mt Hotham on a clear day. Mark from Mildura managed to get enough reception to update the soft - ware on his drone and used the oppor - tunity to get some footage. Not long before we left many others started to make their way up for a look, so we fig - ured it was a good time to head down the mountain. We headed down Castlehill Track onto Junction Spur, which we followed to Castleburn Creek Track. When we crossed the Castleburn Creek I noticed a splash in the water, we pulled up to investigate and discovered trout in the creek along with lizards sunbaking on the rocks next to the water. The trout were trapped in a reasonable size puddle with some rock crevices to hide in, so good hiding spots. Mark was unsuccessful in catching lunch with his night. As always an enjoyable night was place with 360 degree views of the bare hands but it was good entertain - had around the campfire, particularly by mountains. Being Australia Day week - ment for the onlookers. We stopped for those more social characters. end there were many people sharing lunch shortly after on the side of the 8:30am, we left the social crew in bed the views and it would be fair to say the track at the bottom of a valley. again and travelled north up Eaglevale place was full with about 30 cars all We headed down Scrubby Creek Track Tk, along Cynthia Range Tk, down parked at Trig Point. After about 20mins and stopped to play in either the Station Tk and into Talbotville camp - we headed east back along Blue Rag Crooked River or Wonnangatta River, (I ground for a toilet stop. From here we Range Tk out to Dargo High Plains can’t tell the difference) but it wasn’t far continued north up South Basalt Knob Road. from Collins Hut. From here we drove up Tk. This is a great track, it’s challenging, We took a short detour left at Mayford the hill to Crooked River Road, turned rocky and goes straight up. The kind of near Lankey Hut just before King Spur left and headed back towards camp at track you don’t want to have to stop half Tk. It was worth it, there is a cliff to Eaglevale. We got to Kingswell Bridge way up the steep sections. It was great stand on top of facing north with excep - and Whytie decided he wanted to take to hear the radio communication was tional views of Mt Hotham and the Conway Tk, Randalls Tk, Cynthia Spur top notch. Everyone waited at the Dinner Plains. Tk and Eaglevale Tk back into camp. bottom of the steep sections and called We headed south down Dargo High Considering it was about 32 degrees each other up when clear. We Plains Rd to Dargo for fuel and a beer. Mark, Kim and the 2 girls decided a dip regrouped at the helipad, and much like After a chin wag with the bartender we in the river was more appealing so they the day before Whitie and Grace headed back to camp via Short Cut Rd headed straight back to camp. appeared through the dust after a late onto Crooked River Road. At the bottom The rest of us followed Whytie up start. We all talked about how fun the of Billy Goats Tk we passed an 80 Conway, the Disco’s both had some climb was then continued over Basalt Series Land Cruiser with its front cooling issues climbing the steep track. Knob, which has an elevation of 1512m passenger side wheel collapsed and Shane in the Disco 2 decided to turn onto the Historic Railway Carriage for a facing the wrong way; suspect another back while Gibbo pressed on with a look. The consensus was this carriage kingpin lack of maintenance failure. keen eye on the temp gauge of the was originally a cool store as it has insu - Serves as a reminder that our four wheel Disco 1. Brett heard my radio calls on lated walls, a metal shaft suspended drives must be maintained to a high the way back down Conway Tk while he from the ceiling, which looked to stock standard when continuously exposing was heading into camp along Crooked ice with drip lines heading outside and them to the harsh environment we do. River Road, so we conveniently met up brass door hinges. It was generally The next morning camp was packed up at Kingswell Bridge and travelled into more solid than other carriages of the by about 10.00am. Most left for home camp together, or inconveniently per - same era. but me and Erynne wanted to check out haps for Brett and Trish due to the dust We continued north up North Basalt Dungeys Hut in Happy Valley. travelling behind Erynne and I. It was Knob Tk which presented a tight gap Unfortunately the gate to the private about 3.00pm by the time the BT50 and through a fallen tree and some sharp property has been locked and access the Disco got back to camp by which switch backs that Mark Liddle’s Troopy to the exceptionally well preserved hut time all the Delsoa’s were enjoying the from Mildura lifted a front right wheel to is permanently closed. It is thought the river, and it wasn’t long before the rest navigate, much to the distress of owner has closed it due to vandalism or of us joined in. Dowsett had spent the Michelle. We had lunch at the helipad maybe the preservation of the hut has day at camp building a solid set of just short of where North Basalt Knob Tk been compromised due to the amount steps from the top of the river bank to intersects Blue Rag Range Tk. The of traffic. the bottom, which made access easy. weather was much the same as the pre - The weather was perfect for all 3 days, About 4.00pm Bad Santa and Mapo vious day and great views of Mt Hotham and because we were on the move turned up to join in the weekend adven - and the Blue Rag Range were had. each day before others the traffic was tures and by 4:30pm Whyties party had From here we headed west down Blue not too bad considering the amount of returned from their detoured trek back Rag Range Tk to Blue Rag Trig Point people in Eaglevale and Talbotville. I to camp. The camp fire was soon lit, where we stood at an elevation of 1721. hope everyone had a great time and dinner being prepared, spaghetti The views were remarkable as the trees looks forward to doing it again. All in all seemed to be on everyone’s menu that were not tall which allowed for another the trip was a great success.

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 21 > Club Spotlight Mount Terrible Hut ReBuild

Mt Terrible is a mountain within the Great Divide, located to the south - west of Kevington, Victoria. The summit is 1,325 metres ASL and is often covered in snow during winter. Access is by 4WD or bike only. There are a number of tracks that give access to the summit. Mt Terrible track possibly the most popular accessed from the Eildon -Jamieson road. Newman’s track also gives access to Mt Terrible, off the Jamieson /Eildon road near the Big River camp ground. There are a couple of tracks that run off the Big River road that will take you up to Mt Terrible Track. These are steep and can be slippery in the wet. Access to Mt Terrible is also possible from Mt Matlock. This is a very picturesque 4x4 trek across the top of the ridge line. Mount Terrible joins the track at Moonlight Spur and Ryan’s Spur track. The original hut, believed to be built in the early 1960s, was believed to be burnt down by accident while people

22 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH

camped inside. All that remained was rebuild of an Iconic Hut. This Hut should began in mid-November. the brick chimney among a pile of rub- stand the test of time for many years to It was previously decided that the floor ble. come and offer potentially life saving of the hut was going to be a concrete The former fire watcher's hut was used shelter in times of inclement weather. slab which was always going to be a for accommodation for the nearby fire And of course, it is just an awesome logistical challenge to get a cement lookout observer until the mid-1990s. place to visit and take in the breath- truck to the hut site given all the tracks The nearby Mt Terrible fire tower is still taking scenery of the surrounding Alpine to Mt Terrible were 4WD. Utilizing the operational at the site and is manned area. department dozer, DELWP prepared Mt during the highest fire danger days. The following is the full account of the Terrible Track by levelling out any ruts It is important to acknowledge and rebuild with all information supplied to and drainage structures so the 15-tonne understand how the A4-4 Memorial me by Anthony Dykes, Shez Tedford cement truck had no obstacles in its Team was born;, below is that story as HMO VHCHA: slow and steady journey up to Mt told by Anthony Dykes. “After the team completed the restora- Terrible. The truck made it to the summit “In 2013 after finding the long-forgotten tion of the A4-4 Memorial at Mt Torbreck, with no problems and the slab was Avro Anson A4-4 Memorial at Mt their workload decreased significantly poured and screeded by the DELWP Torbreck, we felt very strongly that it and they were interested in taking on crew headed by James Cowell and was important that the 4 young men that another project in the area. After several Luke Heard. They constructed the wall died there deserved to be remembered meetings with Alexandra DELWP Senior frames and roof trusses in the following for paying the ultimate sacrifice to Forest Ranger James Cowell, it was days in readiness for the A4-4 team to ensure that we live the lives we live decided that they would assist them have a crack on the first weekend in today - it was then that the A4-4 with the rebuild of the once popular Mt December. After arriving to a bare Memorial Restoration Team was born. Terrible Hut that was needlessly frame, they achieved the following; Over a period of 2 years, 100's of fallen destroyed by fire late 2012. Assemble picnic tables; trees including some very large Anthony approached the Victorian High Construct stairs from the hut to the mountain ash were cleared to form an Country Association (VHCHA) for their picnic table and fireplace area; uninterrupted 2.4km walking track from endorsement of the project as they are Wrap hut in sisalation (insulation); Barnewall Plains Rd to the memorial widely revered with their passion for the Build veranda on the north and western site. During this project, an engine from huts of the High Country. Initially there sides of the hut; A4-4 that was found some 300m below was trepidation by VHCHA to have it Build door and window frames; the memorial site was retrieved by the rebuilt due to the previous hut frequently Clad all external walls with weather- team and mounted at the memorial site suffering to vandalism, but in the end it boards; as an additional tribute to the was agreed by all that it would be a Install battens on hut and veranda roof; crew. Once completed an official worthy project. Build and hang door; commemoration ceremony which includ- To get the ball rolling the A4-4 team General landscaping around hut and ed crew family members, RAAF person- applied for the 2016 Vic Forests picnic area. nel including RAAF Roulette flyover, Community Support Program as they DELWP continued in the following Nick McCallum from Channel 7 News were successful in receiving in 2015 on weeks putting on roof sheets, guttering and over a 100 people attended in what the A4-4 memorial project. They were and internal wall cladding. was a moving and very special service again successful for this project to the The hut was finished in time for The A4-4 Memorial team lead by tune of $2,000 that would contribute Christmas to be enjoyed by the Anthony Dykes put forward a proposal towards materials for the rebuild of the hundreds of visitors it was to receive. to rebuild Mt Terrible Hut. hut. In the follow ing months via the Minor works continued into the New Their passion and knowledge was VHCHA Facebook page, ARB Year with the installation of a rainwater rewarded with the rebuild agreed to be Thomastown contributed a significant tank and the pot belly stove. carried out.” donation that was also matched by The A4-4 Memorial team will take on the On behalf of the VHCHA a massive VHCHA along with a donation of a truck caretaker role of the hut in conjunction thank you to the A4-4 Memorial team for brake drum po tbelly stove for the with DELWP and VHCHA their work. Full credit to the A4-4 Team, internal fireplace. With funding and Thanks to the following groups and volunteers and DELWP for the fantastic various materials secured, the build organisations for making the project happen. 77 Years ago today - 16th May • Alexandra DELWP • Forrest Fire Management On this day 77 years ago four young lives were tragically cut short. RAAF Flying • A4-4 Memorial Restoration Team Officer Anthony Daniel, Corporal Frank Hyland, Fred Sass & Ivan Stowdor paid the • Victorian High Country Huts Ass. ultimate sacrifice when Avro Anson A4 they were flying in struck the north east • Vic Forests face of Mt Torbreck 300m below the 1500mm. It wasn’t until 9 months later that • ARB Thomastown these men were found and closure finally given to their families. RIP lads. Lest We • Feast & Watson Timber Finish Products Forget. • Cindy McLeish MP Courtesy Shez Tedford • Artworkz TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 23 > Cover story HIGH COUNTRY

Words & images by Robert Norman In late March the Wangaratta 4WD Club mixture of day and overnight trips – especially those who are into remote again staged the not for profit High covering a large swathe of the High travel on their own or as a couple. Country and Beyond at Omeo in the Country and those new to 4WDriving At some time or other we’ve all had a State’s north-east. Last year’s event and/or not familiar with the area were trailer on tow and come across a track (Buckland & Beyond) was based in the knocked out by the range of tracks and that looks interesting but also unsuitable Buckland Valley near Bright and given spectacular scenery. for towing. What do you do – camp up the relocation to Omeo and the wider As usual the first night of the event saw somewhere and leave the trailer behind range of High Country driving experi - everyone gather for happy hour or just think it’s all too hard and give it a ences on offer, a change of name was followed by a dinner prepared by the miss? Another example might be considered appropriate. organisers. After food and refreshments thoughts of crossing the Simpson While the move from a bush campsite aplenty most participants turned in Desert as part of a larger Outback trip. like the Buckland to the more civilised early, ready to hit the tracks early in the If encumbered with a camper would you surrounds of the Omeo caravan park morning. be prepared to park it up at say Mt Dare wasn’t everyone’s preference, the waste Bolstering the number of vehicles at while you drive to Birdsville only to face management restrictions etc. placed on High Country & Beyond was a contin - a return trip over those 1000 odd sand event organisers made the bush option gent of Tailgate Campers organised by dunes? It is in these situations a Tailgate an impossibly expensive one. the slide-on manufacturers, Noel and Camper comes into its own. With a go Those issues aside, the number of 4X4’s Irene Ham, who are also active anywhere capability and a 40 second attending was about the same as the members of the Wangaratta 4WD Club. set up time (as demonstrated on previous year with participants travelling While not for everyone, slide on Tailgate Camper's Facebook page) they from as far afield as South Australia and campers do offer some interesting and represent an arguably more user Queensland. There was an enjoyable viable alternatives to traditional campers friendly option than say a rooftop tent.

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Omeo Caravan Park

Given you can only be in one place at a down the 4X4 dry weather only that ran 4km to Hanging Rock. With time your author had to toss up between Limestone Creek Track for morning tea. numerous high erosion embankments joining the Tailgate Camper group for a Rough and rocky in places, the track challenging clearance and tight corners, two day bush camping trip or the more descends steeply for 2km from the main this was not a place you would neces - civilised option of a bit of driving fol - road until it reaches Limestone sarily want to bring a trailer, but the lowed by wining and dining on a Campground. This large grassy clearing Tailgate Campers took it in their stride. restaurant quality meal at Paynes Hut is bounded on its western side by a Arriving at a small clearing at the end of near Anglers Rest. A difficult choice but rocky ridge that hides an extensive cave the track there was a bit of a view over the chance to see how the slide on system able to be explored by the more the ranges to the west but if this was campers handled the High Country adventurous. Hanging Rock the group was tracks won me over. Back on Limestone Black Mountain unanimous that it probably wasn’t worth Our camper trip headed out past Road the convoy headed towards the effort. However, after following what Benambra for a quick history lesson at McKillops Bridge on good all-weather looked like an indistinct brumby trail that the ruins of a home built by James gravel roads and some bitumen. While led a short distance into the thick bush, Pendergast. One of the very first cattle - the driving wasn’t challenging it the track opened out onto a rocky out - men to settle in the area in the 1830s, provided everyone with the opportunity crop with breathtaking views off either Pendergast built his homestead in the of taking in the scenery - made all the side of the narrow ridge. shadow of McFarlanes Lookout, a more pleasant by the warm Autumn Leaving Hanging Rock behind us we craggy granite outcrop popular with weather. followed nearby World End Track to a rock climbers that dominates the sky - McKillop Road enters the Alpine helipad that provided further expansive line. National Park at Little River where we views. Moving further east the group diverted picked up a rough and rocky 4X4 track Then it was back down the aptly named

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Rocky Range Track to McKillops Road has a history to match. Commenced in Washington Winch. which twists and turns as it follows the 1931 it was washed away by record When you consider the work involved in contours of the rugged, steep range. floods in 1934 just before it was due to making an event like this a success, the With nothing but fresh air off the side of be opened. Rebuilt using arc welding, organisers are to be congratulated this gravel road which is barely wide which was leading edge technology at given they had to do so without any enough for two vehicles, you try not to that time, McKillops Bridge was then the sponsorship or other financial support. think of the consequences of meeting a longest arc-welded steel truss bridge in Regretfully, there is no easy answer to truck (or anything really) on one of the the world, regarded in Europe and the funding issues faced by not for profit numerous blind corners. That said, the America as an engineering wonder. events like High Country and Beyond. views over the Snowy River valley are In the mid-20th century the Snowy River Despite the blood, sweat and tears of awesome. was decimated after the Snowy Hydro volunteers wanting to cre - McKillops Bridge campground was a Scheme reduced its flow by up to 99% ate an event that has broad appeal to rocky, uninviting experience where level but in more recent times environmental the 4X4 community (both club and the sites were hard to find, but for our releases of water have breathed life general public), without the ability to overnight stay it at least offered basic back into the river and at the time of our fund initial advertising and infrastructure facilities. The nearby 255 metre timber- visit it was good to see it flowing costs, realising the event’s potential will decked bridge, perched high above the strongly. prove challenging. The organisers are Snowy River, is visually impressive and From McKillops Bridge we backtracked keen to see High Country and Beyond west, stopping to take become an annual event and it would in the views at be great if the Victorian 4X4 club Wulgulmerang Creek community got together to ensure that Falls and nearby Little this opportunity to showcase the 4WD River Falls before turn - paradise many Victorians take for ing south to Glenmore granted grows, rather than evaporating Road near Gelantipy. as have other similar ventures. This track and then Robert Norman Nunniong Plains Track proved to be a delight - ful forest drive that wound through impres - sive stands of tall mountain ash. Turning south into Nunniong Road we dropped in to Murphys Hut, tucked away amongst the snow gums on the edge of Nunniong Plain. While there were no brumbies to be seen on this occasion they can often be seen grazing here. Our day and the trip ended after an easy run down to Moscow Villa, which has to be one of the most sub - stantial mountain huts going, before heading back to Omeo via the

TRACK WATCH JUNE 2017 27 > Insurance Insurance comes in many forms... Camping takes on so many different reserved for the night before, or even up the majority of our pre-trip forms these days, from hiking and the day of departure, as each member discussions. trekking to sleeping in the back of your arrives out at the family four wheel drive Now, all this is in the past. Insurance four wheel drive to some pretty fancy with what they consider to be the most comes in many forms, trust me, I have trailers and caravans. But regardless of important items required over the sought wise counsel from many on this. the accommodation of choice there is coming days. I have done my risk assessment and always going to be that awkward There is a natural culling of certain items prioritised accordingly. Recently I gave conversation as to what we should and as the squabbles commence often well my wife just what she wanted for her should not take on our next exciting before leaving the house, only to be birthday, a portable toilet, it is now the adventure away. There is only so much superseded by dad, who by this time first thing packed, no discussion you can fit in … right? has prepacked all the stuff that he required and at last we can travel any - There are now so many options you wants to take and he announces that where at any time! have to consider when you head out on there is only room for a couple of small your camping trip and one must be very items for each of the rest of the family. Happy wife, happy life! careful how to approach the ever so Mother then overrides that decree with delicate topic of … what to pack. the fact that … well, just because she With technology challenging us on every can … and so it goes on. front, we face the daunting task of In my case, there is now only the two of culling the list from the necessities of life us (most of the time) so I have learned (as we know it) to the bare essentials to be very careful, preplanning has (according to whom… ). Questions will become the key to an enjoyable trip … be asked … are we going to be in Previously, even though the trip route mobile phone range? Will I be able to had been well rehearsed, drive times upload my Facebook posts? How many allowing for the occasional scenic stop chairs do we need? Can I bring my hair (a requirement the grandchildren some - dryer? … and the list goes on. how introduced) and of course the list from our previous trip of what I did not For most families, this topic is generally bring or allow to be brought, had made

28 JUNE 2017 TRACK WATCH

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