Snow, Glorious Snow

nBelanglo Camp Oven Cook-off nChristmas Party Invite nIllawarra and Surrounds

OCTOBER–NOVEMBER 2012 Mark and the crew air down for the fluffy stuff

Waypoints Reports REGULARS 8 4 Calendar 22 Across the Mountains President’s Report Future fun details 24 Mark and Karolyn traverse the Blue Mountains through 5 Minutes 30 Driver Awareness Officers’ the snow Report Committee 32 14 6 Trip gradings 33 Masterchef Eat Your Hear Trip Conveners’ Report Out Convoy and trip Julie and Michael host a camp 28 procedure 34 oven cook off in Belanglo Delegate’s Report State Forest 18 29 To the ‘Gong and Beyond Technical Officer’s Report John and Jean ran a day trip through the historic and natural wonders of the Illawarra region

EMERGENCY Club personnel appointed as first contact in the event of a problem on a trip: Brett Hampson 0408 409 634 John Hocking 0405 568 965

Subaru and Recreational Come and join us 4WD Club Inc General meetings 8pm on the second Friday of the month subaruclub.com.au at Ermington Community Centre, 10 River Road, Ermington. PO BOX 161, Committee meetings are held on the Tuesday night before Parramatta, NSW 2124 the general meeting at committee members’ homes; [email protected] meetings start at 7:30pm. All club members are welcome. 02 9990 9052 33.815710 S; 151.053320 E

October – November 2012 3 PRESIDENT’S REPORT

Firstly, thank you to the outgoing committee members and a big welcome to the incoming committee. We have quite a few members who have not been on our club committee before and they are keen to start making their roles their own with some new and exciting initiatives; so stay tuned!

The committee has also created a sub-committee to investigate implementing bi-laws to complement our constitution, and Sometimes the discussions can get will all look forward to hearing all I look forward to hearing what a bit emotional and heated on about what went on during all they come up with. Facebook – please be respectful of these trips. our members and if you would not Look out for your new permit say it to their face don’t do it There is also a new members trip from the 4wd Association, this online. coming up in October and I look needs to be affixed to your car forward to meeting any new and (back window preferred). It will Suggestions– any club members potential members on that trip. allow you to participate in group with a suggestion or an idea on activities in State Forests without how to improve our great club any payment. The 4wd should contact our club secretary. Brian Association has paid an annual fee This is also the case for any on behalf of clubs and their complaints and/or issues. members, so simplifying the Members can also ask a committee process for our members. member to list an item in the agenda for the next club meeting. AGM - whilst not everyone may Finally, if you feel the committee be happy with how the AGM was is not listening, you can also conducted, I believe the correct contact the public officer. Please processes were followed which respect the committee’s decisions resulted in the current committee and provide time for due process being elected. These individuals for any outcomes. are enthusiastic about moving the club forward. What a great club we have ; we are all about great times, with Facebook – The club Facebook great people, enjoying the great group has never been an official outdoors. moderated club forum, it is offered to enhance the club Over the long weekend we had members experience but all official three separate trips heading out in communication, documents, different directions, so there was notifications and trip registrations sure to be something to please should be made via the club everyone. Heidi, Isabelle and I website in the first instance. headed to the Jeep Jamboree. We

October – November 4 2012 DRIVER AWARENESS OFFICERS’ REPORT

Did you know that your $80 Club membership includes Driver Awareness training which is aimed to make your 4WDing experience safer and more enjoyable?

Did you know this training also includes tuition for members wishing to become assessed and accredited in “Drive and Recover a 4WD vehicle” (National Accreditation) ? Awareness trips over the GREAT OFFER TO CLUB MEMBERS next 12 months. Here’s a great opportunity for club members to Your club Driver boost their inventory of essential off-road gear Awareness Officers for In the meantime if any with a top deal at Town and Country Vehicle 2012/2013 are Brett club member has any Accessories, 298 King Georges Rd, Beverly Hills. Atkins & Mark Honor. Driver Awareness related During the next twelve Just Straps Standard Recovery Kit months we plan to run a questions, we are only too (normally $110) happy to assist and can be Benchmark of variety of Driver SPECIAL Awareness trips that will contact at all snatch strap SUBARU CLUB PRICE suit "All makes and All 4wdtraining@subaruclub. kits. Genuine Just Straps brand is $99 tastes" for our club com.au members. the benchmark of all snatch strap Always Remember, The kits. Standard While we have a number Australian-made 8000kg snatch strap is tested of trips in the planning Principle of 4WDing: “If in doubt, Stop get out and and proven as the most popular all rounder and stage we are happy to take biggest seller. on board any ideas or have a look” then “Think, suggestions for training Assess and Decide” Plugga II - H/D that club members may Tyre Repair Kit have. (normally $45) The Plugga II is the To kick things off we have Brett & Mark latest edition of the already announced a day Bushranger Tyre trip in the Sand at Repair Kit line. The Stockton Beach and Plugga kits are built to SPECIAL be sturdy and robust to SUBARU hopefully another trip CLUB PRICE very soon, close to withstand the pressure $39.95 Sydney. you place on the handles when repairing a tyre. Stayed tuned to the Club Details: phone 9758 2500; website and Facebook online: tandc-com-au page for upcoming Driver

October – November 2012 5 TRIP CONVENERS’ REPORT With such great trips on offer, we are

2012 has had two extended Spring started in Day trip on Sunday 28th to trips so far (and there two September 2012 and John the Turon River National more planned for the end of H lead a touring day trip to Park area, it would be great to the year) – now when can I Northern Illawarra on 9th to have many new members and take holidays is the decision see the natural & cultural a lot of longstanding for us all to make. There are highlights the area has to members as well. also some great day and offer. Joey travelled down to weekend trips in the calendar Yalwal on 15th & 16th to camp Early in November 2012 that are listed below as well as beside the dam that flooded on 3rd & 4th David A is Driver Awareness trips. the original township. This running the Darts & Dices 7 – was an easy trip with 4WD who knows where they will This year July 2012 was options. At the end of the all end up this year. Our very festive with our month is the Labour Day Driver Awareness team – Christmas in July on 21st & Long Weekend and we have Brett A & Mark H – has a day 22nd arranged by Craig Y at three trips. Mark is planning of sand driving at Stockton Hill End Lodge for the second a trip to Mid North Coast and Beach on 17th. Make sure you year running – the hall was Barrington Tops from 28th to book in on this one or another filled with members in Rock & 1st October. This trip is rated one of these trips, these trips Roll fancy dress. medium/hard and no trailers. are a must for new members Julie & Michael are running a but no matter how many trips Mark & Karolyn did a trip in trip down south to Mystery you have been on there is August 2012 on 18th & 19th Bay with the option of always something to learn. for a weekend driving in the turning 3 days into 5 thanks These trips include tuition, south west mountains with a to school holidays. Due to demonstrations and practice bush camp on private storms the tracks might still on all types of terrain and property, it was cold enough be closed but I am sure that cover vehicle awareness and for snow. On 25th & 26th other activities will be recovery techniques. David W Michael & Julie led a trip to planned. James is also is planning a 4WD & camping Belanglo. Everyone got out running a trip up to Bylong weekend trip on 24th & 25th to their camp ovens, spits, 4WD Park where there are Chichcester Forest up near hotplates or even just a frying tracks of all standards to test Dungog for an interesting pan for – Master fire cooking, your vehicle and driving drive into the mountains. Lots of tasty food was skills. WOW a trip North, Get ready for available and no one was South and West – just as well Christmas party time is the 4WD Show, there is not one east because now incluiding hungry. December 2012, this year the Tinnie and you would need a boat. Tackle Expo at Flat Rock Reserve which is The 4WD and Adventure between Tarana & O’Connell Show is in October 2012 on 8th & 9th. Contact Julie for all the details & make sure on 12th to 14th, it now you hand over your cash for incorporates Tinnie & Tackle Expo. The show is on at dinner. Eastern Creek and the club will have a stand – so come In December along and support your club. 2012/January 2013 there We have a New Members are three trips. Michael &

October – November 6 2012 truly a club for all makes and all tastes

Julie are going to Poley’s great food like roast beef rolls, to Fraser Island & Place at Gloucester where you soup and hot Milo at the last Landcruiser 4WD Park. can all Stop & Plop and do as 4 events. Our attendance is There are no trailers and a little or as much as you like. organised by Kevin and you limit of 8 cars and this tour is There are two extended trips can come along for a short now FULL, so there is at this time. The first is to time or for the whole 2 days. another trip that I will just Tasmania which Troy & have to sit at home while it is Sandi are leading and it Already in June/July on. includes an option of a 4 day 2013 there is a three week walk around Cradle trip on – A trip to the Tip – to If you would like to attend a Mountain. The second trip is Cape York. Jo & Josh are trip go to the club website to some great locations in leading this and sorry but and use the Online Booking South Australia around the such is the appetite from Form for the trip. You can Eyre Peninsula; contact Craig members for extended trips also email or phone the trip Y for all the details. that after just over a week leader for more information since it was announced it is or to book on the trip. For Easter 2013 Craig F is FULL. The run to the going back to the sheep northern tip of Australia We are always looking for new trip leaders and locations station on his trip – where the starts in Cairns on 2nd July to visit. If you would like to hell is "Dooroombah". Once and is due to return to Cairns run a trip contact the trip you find out where to go & th on 18 . You can join the conveners to discuss and we how to get there you can join group for the drive from will give you every advice him for 4 to 6 days in the Sydney on 29th June and/or possible and might even be bush and maybe more Emu return to Sydney with them able to assist on the trip. eggs for breakfast. on 21st July or you can take your time up and/or back Hope to see you at a club An extended trip is planned in to/from Cairns. The rest of us meeting or out on the track April 2013 school holidays will just stay home, envy sometime soon on one of the where we will follow Loz them and make sure that we great trips. ‘Way out West’ to a beautiful get out names down quickly part of NSW. Lots of great next time. Adrian & David country and attractions to discover on this run over two Also in September 2013 weeks. David A has booked in a trip

The last weekend in May 2013 sees us back at the Hawkesbury Relay for Life in the local Showground for the 6th year in a row. This is a 24 hour event which raises funds for The Cancer Council and people attend to remember Dooroombah trip leader survivors and loved ones that Craig F and emu with “eyes” have passed. We have sold in the back of its head.

October – November 2012 7 COVER STORY

Across the Mountains-

October – November 8 2012 rain, sleet or snow REPORT SUBMITTED BY MARK HONOR

October – November 2012 9 Bush Camp This was the situation on When we mustered the a little skill were in the the Saturday 18th August courage and with our employed to reach our Mountains as eleven brave souls met orders clear, we all hit the first objective of Jenolan at a coffee shop in Great Western Highway Caves. It is worth noting 18th and 19th Blackheath. The mission on our way to Jenolan at this point that our August was to cross the Blue Caves. It was not long token Subaru Forester Trip leaders: Mark Mountains from North to before we found the road joined the convey after we and Karolyn Honor South, no matter what the and landscape covered in found them stopped in the Others: Michael, weather conditions. this white stuff that Troy middle of the road Andrew, Brenton, Before we could proceed and Sandi have been checking the back of the Kevin, Kim, Karen, telling us about for weeks. car. David, Cathy, Neil the execution of the mission was discussed SNOW bloody snow A quick look around at over tea, coffee and cake everywhere, it looked Jenolan before returning by a roaring fire while the fantastic but some of the to our vehicles for a short cold, wind, sleet and rain curves looked a little climb out on the southern outside had other plans. slippery so much care and side to find even more

October – November 10 2012 snow as we turned left on to crossing with rock steps to climb on Mount Werong where there is some Kanangra Walls Road. The gravel the southern bank; but today there shelter from the wind and rain. At road and snow made for a fun drive is a good rock and gravel causeway this point you might be thinking to the Kowmung Trail which we with only about 400mm of water and why, why would you go out on a followed south towards the no steps. The Patrol could easy weekend in these conditions? So far Kowmung River. It was time to air deliver the photographer and then we had seen the mountains as many down in anticipation of slippery and reverse back so we all had a record do not and our spirits were high. rocky tracks. Some fun was had in of crossing. There was plenty of humour on the the snow with one wife deciding her Continuing on the Kowmung trail airways and all vehicles were husband was fair game while on his to the camp area of Dingo Dell was behaving themselves, the plan was knees airing down. a pleasant drive with no snow at this coming together with plenty of The trail to the river was in good altitude. Dingo Dell has some drop shelter at Mount Werong, located condition and before we knew it the toilets and a nice looking creek; on the old Camden to Oberon Stock beautiful Kowmung River was when it’s not raining it is also a great Route. Following lunch we were in sitting there in front of us. In years place for lunch or camp. Today striking distance of our overnight gone by it was a deep fast flowing however we decided to push on to camp on Jerrong Road and were

October – November 2012 11 ‘The mission was to cross the Blue Mountains from North to South, no matter what the weather conditions’

From previous page with the wet we all had great fun and were able to learn briefed on the next leg of our more about our vehicle and mission. what it could do safely, good Brenton was a guest of our to use a lower gear and stay trip leaders and his family off the brakes on some of owns the property which was those corners and slopes. to be our overnight camp. At Upon reaching Jerrong Road the last minute Mark and it was only a short drive to Karolyn were on the radio Brenton’s property but the saying “let us stay off the main shire had been working on the track and take this one” After road so it was starting to look a quick left turn and some and feel like Adventure Way mud and water Mark was on heading into Innamincka after the radio again saying, “ rain. We found our own little nothing ventured, nothing spot to camp not too far from gained, at least it is heading in the old shack which was used the right direction”. Well it for shelter during some of the did take us to Jerrong Road heavier rain showers. Mark via Parliament Hill and many and Brenton took his chain slippery slopes and creek saw and returned with a ute crossings. In the dry it would load of timber for our fire. have been a different track but After some encouragement we

October – November 12 2012 Mount Werong

‘The mission was to cross the Blue Mountains from North to South, no matter what the weather conditions’

had a roaring fire to ward off Wombeyan Caves Road to before arriving at Marulan. On the chill and moisture. There Richlands. Morning tea or the road between the river and was no 100 year old port but early lunch at one of the cafes Big Hill the X-Trail showed us we could all drink to a in Taralga was very enjoyable how driving on gravel is done, successful days travel in the and we were fortunate extra mountains. staff only lived 2 minutes away. always mindful of road Sunday morning saw a little From Taralga we travelled east conditions and the speed limit. more sun shine which was along Bannaby Road for about Reaching Marulan at around fantastic because we had 19km where Swallow Tail Pass 2.30pm meant we had plenty of planned a lazy start to the day. is found on the right. Down a time to make our own way up Before departing for Taralga few steep hills on good gravel the Hume and dry out some we explored the Abercrombie we arrived at the Tarlo River River where it adjoins the rear about 5km upstream from the camping gear. The rain, cold of the property; some great junction with the Wollondilly and snow helped make this pools for swimming and fishing River. Before crossing the river weekend a great trip. Thank when the temperature is above some of the group had a play you Brenton for your company, 6 deg. (there you go we said it on two hill climbs. Mitsubishi camp and chainsaw. We are all was warmer today than won the challenge with Nissan looking forward to the next yesterday) getting permission for some On the leg to Taralga we made diff locks. It was good adventure in this big country a few diversions that took us up entertainment before crossing of ours. on to the Range Trail, Lang’s the river and continuing east Mission complete,. Road and then west along through Big Hill and Brayton

October – November 2012 13 Master Chef - Eat Your Heart Out

October – November 14 2012 WRITTEN BY JULIE RUSH

October – November 2012 15 TRIP REPORT: BELANGLO MASTER CAMP OVEN COOKING WEEKEND

Michael and Julie relaxing before the cook-off BELANGLO MASTER CAMP OVEN The weekend started with few went for a drive on the choice was yours as to what magnificent weather for forest tracks for a bit of fun sections you entered, most COOKING camping as we all met at and found a few fallen trees to chose to enter all 3. If you WEEKEND Pheasants Nest for the short block their way at times. have ever been on a club trip trip into Belanglo. Now I that’s had a communal meal I Leader Michael and Julie know it has a nasty history Of course, the main aim of the am sure you won’t be Rush but it really is quite a lovely weekend was to show off our surprised when you hear that Campers camping area and we should cooking prowess by whatever no one went hungry on this The Pink Team – use it more often! In camp means as long as there was no weekend and the food was Julie & Michael Rush and being set up by about electricity or batteries superb! The Green Team – 11am allowed us to bask in involved – only fire. Jo & Shahni Quinn the spring sunshine and enjoy The Silver Team – the peace and serenity of the Some chose the dream pot The entries: Kim Nolan area. Being a cooking with fire to start it off, some The Blue Team – weekend the serenity was used the Ozpig, others used Fivesies: Chilli corn fritters, Jenny & Sam Ebenezer tinged with the sound of axe frypans and, of course, there Cheese & Chive The Purple Team – scones, Meatballs and David, Tracey & Kaitlyn hitting wood as Craig no was the good old camp oven. dipping sauce, Cheese & Ackerman, Dean shoes got the firepit ready for Three categories were open (Tracey’s brother) and all the delicious food waiting to entrants: Fivesies, Main Chive Damper, Mixed Nick & Amanda to be cooked, camp style! A Course and Dessert. The skewers with satay sauce, Capratsis The White Team – Kevin McCormack The Yellow Team – Michael Dunstan The Red Team – Craig Fitzpatrick & Josh The Orange Team – Gabriel & Rosario Rodriguez

October – November 16 2012 A bit of wine tasting

Cheese & Red Pepper Damper (winner – orange team) We left camp and headed into Berrima for morning tea and a Mains: Fish & Chips (winner – look around the shops then off purple team), Chicken Casserole, Fish parcels with to Joadja Winery for some stuffed potatoes, Chicken sampling and lunch – how Tandoori Skewers & Rice, lovely lunching among the The end result Roast Pork and roast vines. vegetables, Lamb Casserole, Beef Stroganoff, Pork curry The afternoon finished off with Desserts: Peach Steamed a very interesting and enjoyable pudding, Choc Chip Damper visit to the old mining ghost Orange Team Upside down pineapple cake town of Joadja. Well worth a (winner yellow team) trip there for a weekend to explore and they even have A great night was finished off around a roaring fire. camping!

Sunday morning saw us hand All headed home after a very Red Team out awards for best entries relaxing, enjoyable weekend which was an extremely close thinking about what would be affair, as well as the overall on the menu for Camp Cooking winners, which went to Gabriel & Rosario for their extra efforts Masterchef 2013 – will you be in presentation – the use of local there? flora was the key! Joadja Winery

October – November 2012 17 To the ‘gong and beyond

WRITTEN BY JESSICA DALKOLMO

October – November 18 2012 October – November 2012 19 TRIP REPORT:ILLAWARRA AND SURROUNDS

Waking up with the sun Southern Gateway Visitor We headed off on the Bulli tickling your nose, Centre. Thank you Nissan Pass which was a great bit promising you a beautiful now we have to do the Trip of road to drive down in a day ahead. Up we got and report. sports car at least for Evan off we went. But hold on John and Jean chose the but not so much his co there, something was meeting point and the view pilot. We stopped at Clifton wrong. We are on our way over Wollongong was to walk along the Sea Cliff to a day trip with our 4x4 fantastic , shame the Centre bridge, a remarkable piece club and we are low on the was closed down but it did of engineering. The walk ground, diff-locks engaging not really matter. After a was wonderful; providing and this unusal noise from quick introduction from fresh sea air and beautiful the engine bay. Evan what John everybody introduced views. We discovered happened to my Pajero? themselves. It was a something looking like a fin We left it at home and took combined club Trip with and our imagination started Evan’s toy out, his Nissan the Nissan club which was to kick in. We had many Skyline R32. really good. Getting to theories about this floating With its 400 horse power know a different club and object in the water. Later motor, it was still not fast their members was on, with the help of the enough to get us on time to excellent. Thanks guys for zoom of Troy’s camera we the meeting point at the tagging along. discovered it was a seal.

October – November 20 2012 When we arrived on the an experience. We could to Helensburgh, a pretty other side of the bridge the have sat there for hours for little town. Missing out on non walkers were waiting all we care and watch them the markets it was time to with the cars to get the jump of the cliff with their head to our last adventure drivers back to their cars. gliders. While waiting for the car But there was more on offer for the day, Maddens Falls. shuffle we went down to and we head of to Kellys A little bit of bushwalking the rock beach and what a Falls. Another wonderful to the Falls and we were wonderful spot it turned spot hidden away if you do presented with another out to be. A very inviting not know about it. piece of art that nature has rock pool and great view Then our tummies started created. It was a very nice over the ocean. rumbling and it was time to spot to just finish off the Once our drivers came to head to our lunch pick us back up we headed destination, Hindu Sri day. for morning tea to Stanwell Venkateswara Temple. Thank you John and Jean it Park. Another nice spot to John and Jean arranged a was really nice and we kick back and relax and very interesting tour in really enjoyed ourselves. It watch the hang gliders in which we learned a lot was an overall fantastic day. the distance. And also what about the Hindu beliefs and a good spot to celerbrate the meaning of their gods. Joey’ s Birthday. A The Indian lunch was just fantastic job was done in superb, given it was cooked organizing cakes and in such a little shed in the making Joey’s day extra rear of the temple. The special. food was amazing! We love After stuffing ourselves trying new things and it is with cake and coffee it was definatly somewhere we time to keep moving again will come back to and try and we went to see the the other dishes on offer. hang gliders up close and With full tummies we personal on Bald Hill. What embarked on our next stop

October – November 2012 21 October – November 22 2012 The Calendar is correct at the time of printing, all information Members wanting to join a trip should contact the trip regarding the trip and booking on it are available in the leader as soon as possible, and also again a day or so before Future Fun section of this edition of Drive Torque, at the Club the trip to allow the trip leader to advise members of any meetings and on the Club website. For the latest calendar changes or cancellations. information, see the club’s website: subaruclub.com.au. Your cooperation is appreciated.

October – November 2012 23 FUTURE FUN In the coming months, we have so much variety

Cradle Mountain in 0433121305 Email will allow time during the day for a Darts and Dice 7 [email protected] Tasmania November 3-4 leisurely picnic lunch on the beach. Darts and Dices is on again it promises to be a weekend full of the Sand Driving The days training will include; unknown. Need I say anymore. Awareness @ Vehicle preparation and Throw a dart ,roll the dice, toss a Stockton maintenance, sand driving and coin who knows what will happen November 17 recovery techniques and post trip next and where well will go ? Date The Driver Awareness Officers checks & tips. 3-4 November 2012 Meeting Place Mark Honor & Brett Atkins would Twin Service Stations Pheasants like to invite members along to a The trip will be ideal for new South Bound Time 900am - 930. Driver Awareness/Training Day on members or those who would like to Trip leaders David and Tracey the sand at Stockton Beach. refresh their sand driving skills, it Ackermann will also suitable for anyone who Trip grading Easy It will be run as a day trip so please just enjoys sand driving and hitting Bookings Online be prepared for an early start which the dunes

Stockton Beach

October – November 24 2012 In the coming months, we have so much variety

Any further questions please feel free to contact Brett or Mark [email protected] Trip Grading Easy rip leaders Brett Atkins and Mark Honor Bookings Online 0433121305 Email [email protected]

Club Christmas Party December 8-9 Flat Rock Reserve between Tarana & O’Connell only 2 ½ hours from Sydney. Free camping The club’s tent by the river – get your name at last year’s down for this annual event. Cost Relay for Life $20 per adult $5 per child (under (top) and the campsite at 10) $10 per child (10 & over) - Dooroombah. please pay Julie at the meetings. scenery and travelling around the intending to stay at caravan parks Trip leaders Julie Rush north coast towards Strahan and camping grounds as a bit of a Trip grading Social where we will spend three nights mixture but I will be select places Bookings Online in order to take in the Gordon with at least basic toilet facilities. Tasmania here we River and railway tours. We will Given Tasmania as a whole is come then work our way around to remote, vehicles must be in very December 26 to January Hobart via the Great Lakes good condition. You must also 20 district, Cradle Mountain etc. play well with others. I expect we We will be taking the overnight From Hobart we will do the will travel 5,000 to 6,000km on ferry over to Tasmania either on famous Salamanca markets and the trip in total. I look forward to Bruny Island. We will check out counting my gear changes. the 26th or 27th and getting the Strathgordon because it looks cool There will be theme nights and ferry back to Melbourne on the on the map and follow the coast competitions along the way. We 19th of January. For information northwards back to Devonport. will be doing lots of tours and on fares and accommodation There is a lunatic fringe in our sightseeing. please see spiritoftasmania.com.au. club who want to hike for four to The trip is limited in the Basically if you want to take a six days in the middle of nowhere. number of vehicles due to the camper trailer and get a nice, cosy We will offer our farewells then capacity of campgrounds and cabin it will cost about $2,000 trash their cars until they possibly caravan parks. Happy to receive return for a family of four. make it to their destination and feedback on what to see and do. There are less-expensive options rejoin the group. For those mad It’s a bit of a flower-picking such as the chairs etc – it’s up to enough to consider this hike, there expedition but Evan has relatives you which you pick, but you will are no pubs on the way – so be (surprised?) in them-thar hills and need to warned. Please speak to Troy or they may provide some info on decide early so that we can Sandi (especially if you have a 4x4 tracks etc. We will also need arrange a group booking, which mental health qualification). to make a group decision re comes with discounts. For the From what I can gather, departure dates etc. as we can get most basic of trips you could Tasmania will be the type of place a group discount. I will do the probably get it down to $1,000 to where you move a lot. Mainly due same with the caravan parks $1,200 for a family. to the fact that you don’t want to accommodation. We will be taking in the be backtracking too much. I am Continued next page

October – November 2012 25 FUTURE FUN Trips here, trips there, do one or many, if you dare From previous page Total cost will depend on what you spend at the markets but I am expecting between $5K and $8K all inclusive. You will need to let me know if you intend to bring a camper, want powered or unpowered sites. If you do suffer or may suffer from motion sickness, let me know and I will try to get some Scopolamine patches from NZ. They are sold over the counter there but no longer in Oz. No idea why. They are a transdermal patch applied Eliot Falls is a behind the ear. Designed for place to look astronauts I can vouch for their forward to capability and effect. They are not visiting on a trip to the Tip. snake oil! Trip leaders Troy and Sandi Strickland Trip grading Social/ Easy friendly. The cost of a camp site will be $9 a night for adults and kids Trip grading Easy Bookings Online Bookings Online free. So come along and have fun – Where the Hell is we all did last time we where there. Christmas – New Year Trip leader Craig Fitzpatrick “Dooroombah” Trip grading Easy Stop & Plop March 28- April 2, 2013 Bookings Online December 26- January 2 Come join me on the Easter break Come join us after all the hectic next year. The trip is at a property Hawkesbury Relay for festivities leading up to christmas called Dooroombah, a working Life 2013 for a relaxed break at Poleys Place sheep station, just past May 25-May 26, 2013 on the Barrington River at Tooraweenha where we stayed on This year’s event was a great Gloucester the June long weekend. We will be success and the Hawkesbury Relay only 3 1/2 hours from Sydney. Do exploring more of the property and raised $160K against a target of as much or as little as you like. the surrounding national park. $100K. Our club did well too, and Arrive when it suits and Dooroombah has been set up for bettered our $2,000 target by leave when it suits. Costs are 4x4s, the 4x4 park is called raising $2,500. Well done and a big roughly $10 per adult and $2.50 per ados4wd.com. It has about 50km of thank-you to everyone involved. So child (3-13) and there is a tracks that are rated from easy to come again and join the fun as we minimum charge for 2 nights. This hard, there is a fee for using the feed the masses to raise funds to is a great spot to kick back and tracks, $20 a day (that’s all day and help defeat cancer. (It’s a bit early to relax, let the kids enjoy night if you want) and it doesn’t detail all the events that will be held the river and wind down after a matter if it’s wet or not. We will but I will keep you up to date and busy year. Take a trip up to visit the emu farm again for those it’s usually a fun packed program.) Barrington National Park, a day who are interested and a trip into Our involvement in the trip to Taree and surrounds or go the Warrumbungle National Park. Hawkesbury Relay for Life began no further than the shady trees and There are flush toilets and hot with the 2008 event and these the river. Suitable for showers and plenty of room to events have turned out to be a tents, campers and vans. Get your spread out. On Easter Sunday there whole lot of fun. Most of us were name down now or contact Julie and will be an Easter egg hunt for the new to a Cancer Council Relay Michael for more kids and maybe a communal dinner event and I’m sure I speak for Information. that night. There is no limit on cars everyone when I say we took a lot Trip leaders Julie and Michael Rush and it is camper and caravan away from the experience – fun

October – November 26 2012 Trips here, trips there, do one or many, if you dare events during the day and at night the Cape section. For those who while the others head up the west What to the Hope ceremony for emotive want to do the whole trip from side; all of us crossing over at the expect: Going remembrance of those gone before Sydney, the itinerary takes in Tip and then retracing the other down on the us and before their time, some joy, Carnarvon Gorge and Undara Lava group’s path back to meet in Cairns way up … to some tears! There is heaps of room Tubes on the way up and Airlie – this can be decided at the planning the Tip for overnight camping so bring Beach on the way back. The dates meeting. Due to recent changes by your Winnebago, caravan, trailer, are set around the NSW school the Qld Government, all campsites tent – whatever you need to make holidays and the 1st week of term 3. in the National Parks on the Cape yourself comfortable. Visitors are This is to best cater for those who York Peninsula need to be booked welcome to come browse the many are schoolteachers or have children necessitating a level of commitment. stalls. Early bird registration $15 at school and to avoid travelling the Trip leaders Jo Quinn and Josh per person (pay by March 26) After whole three weeks in school Parkinson that it is $20 per person. Includes a holidays as Qld’s are different from Trip grading Medium Relay shirt. ours. The trip up to the Tip includes Trip leader Kevin McCormack Weipa, Elliot and Fruit Bat Falls, Trip grading Social Seisia, Captain Billys Landing, Bookings Online Chilli Beach, Archer River and Cooktown – to name a few. The A Trip to The Tip planned itinerary at this stage is July 2 to 18, 2013 quiet loose and will be finalised at a TRIP FULL planning meeting towards the end of August for those interested. June/July next year we are planning There will be a limit on the number a trip to Cape York. The trip either of vehicles for safety and time frame side of Cairns is very open ended reasons. We may look at splitting and people can take as much time as into two groups at Cairns, with one they desire travelling either side of convoy heading up the east side

Continued next page

October – November 2012 27 DELEGATES’ REPORT New NSW Forestry Stickers

As it turns out NSW Forestry have the right to charge for entry to state forests. For years they have not exercised that right. Times being what they are they are now looking at charging groups for the use of the state forests. With this in mind the Four Wheel Drive Assoc’n of which our club is a member, have negotiated with Forestry so that all clubs can use the forests. The association has paid Forestry a fee covering all clubs and with this in mind you will receive a sticker for your car with the next magazine. This sticker should be placed on the rear window of your car. Unfortunately there is more to it than just putting a sticker on your car. Forestry wish to be notified in advance, for groups of 10 cars or more, of the planned use of Forestry tacks and camping activities. To this end trip leaders will need to do this. It is relatively simply as there is an on line form on the association web site on the left hand side of the screen entitled Trip Plan – Forests NSW on the screen below http://4wdnow.com/index.php?o ption=com_content&view=sectio n&id=8&Itemid=56 though you will need to login to the association’s web site www.4wdnow.com to get to the form.

David H

October – November 28 2012 TECHNICAL OFFICER’S REPORT

Hello everyone, Coolant is another item that needs to monthly and adjusted as required. As your new Technical Officer, I will be replaced as recommended; it reduces They might need to be increased for write an article for each issue of the heat in the engine. If coolant is not extra load or reduced for off road and club magazine. The article will be replaced it loses its additives and can then increased when back on tar. Tyres about cars, how they work and what rust or corrode the engine and radiator. are the most forgotten and neglected you need to do to keep them on the If the level of coolant reduces due to a component on cars – but they are the road so that hopefully you arrive home leak anywhere in the system, the most important for safety, performance from club trips by driving your car and engine is at risk of blowing a head and fuel economy. Neglecting tyres can not coming on the back of a tow truck gasket, potentially a one to two cost a lot of money due to early or needing to be repaired on the side of thousand dollar repair cost, or worst replacements. No air means no go. the road. still seizing the engine, meaning many During the service the mechanic will This magazines article is about thousands or even ten thousand dollars also look at and check other parts of servicing operations. or more to replace a motor. the car like brakes, suspension, exhaust Servicing is a very big part of keeping Brake fluid is very important but often etc to see if there are other items that your car working and not breaking forgotten by drivers and needs to be need to be looked at, replaced or down. replaced usually every 2 years. Brake repaired. You need to service your car to the fluid applies the brake pads/linings via It would be good to learn the basics of manufacturer’s recommendations for hydraulic pressure; over time the fluid the components of your car. Your distance travelled or age – whichever absorbs moisture which can lower the mechanic can make mistakes so you comes first. This is important for cars boiling point. Brakes get very hot and should at least do a visual check of your under warranty for the manufacturer to if the fluid boils and creates air bubbles car after a service and ask questions if accept your claim and especially critical the brakes might fail. Not able to stop necessary especially if you think there as your car ages. In some conditions – means not able to go. is a problem that needs to be looked at. very hot weather, dusty conditions, Remember Confucius say – never go If the mechanic does not want to extreme and long distances of off road faster than you can stop. answer your questions, then maybe you Power steering fluid is in most modern driving or if your car has travelled over should be going somewhere else. The cars and this also needs to be changed. 200 000kms you might need to service mechanic should also be willing and It works by pressure so that it is easier your car more often. Another time to able to show you the old parts that to steer the car. do an extra service is before or after a were replaced during the service or Spark plugs, if you have a petrol car, big trip. repair. are another item that needs replacing Let’s start with engines – your engine Another reason to learn the basics is at set times, and if you have an old is the most common part of the car that that you can check the oils and fluid petrol car like my L series they will levels and do a quick inspection at least you service. The oil is replaced as well also have points to replace. These are as the oil filter, make sure that the monthly, top up fluids if necessary and the parts that deliver the spark into the see any issues when they start. Checks correct type of oil is used for your car. motor to ignite the fuel. No spark Engine oil reduces friction, heat and should also be done during long trips. I means no go. know many of us just want to drive our cleans the engine. Filters are items that clean the fluids in cars and not be bothered to check items Gear oil also needs to be changed, it is your car or the fuel and air as it enters but finding a problem early and getting in the transmission – manual or the engine. Oil filters are replaced it repaired is usually cheaper and automatic – and also in the diffs, and in when you do the oil change as with always more convenient than breaking our case we would have both front and gear filters if your car has them. The down. rear diffs. Again this oil reduces fuel filter will have a useful lifespan so I can assist anybody to show them the friction, heat and cleans. If you do it needs to be replaced as recommended basic items on their cars to check – a many or long water crossings you as well as the air filter, but the air filter check would only take 5 minutes and should have the transmission & diffs might need to be done more often if could save a lot. checked afterwards and the oil changed you drive a lot on dirt roads. An engine If there are any topics you want me to if water is in them. Water can get into needs to breathe clean air just like we write about or questions you need these and destroy them, maybe if you do to last. answered, please put a post on our are doing this type of driving you need The acid level in batteries should be club forum or let Michael our secretary to consider extended breathers. checked especially in winter. The acid know. I will not always know the When the oils are drained ensure that can leak and if the level drops the answer straight away but will research they are checked for any metal, both battery will not be able to charge for you and find out. large and small as this could be the property and therefore the car will not Cheers. first sign of a problem – cheaper to fix start. No start means no go. a small problem than when it has The final item to check is tyres. The grown to a big problem. pressures should be checked at least Joey

October – November 2012 29 MINUTES

Subaru and Recreational 4WD ty good this year what a great Craig Young Jessica Club Inc. time we had canyoning in the Blue Dalkolmo/Brett Atkins Annual General Meeting – Mountains and Christmas in July Accepted Friday 10th August 2012 was full of Stars. If you are a trip Treasurer Cath de Santis Michael Meeting Opened: 9.35 leader don’t be put off with nonat- Rush/ Jo Quinn Declined Meeting Chairperson: Brian tendance or poor numbers the trip Ian Waters Brett Hampson may not have suited people at that Atkins/Craig Declined Meeting Secretary: Michael time and maybe try again on an- Kevin McCormack Rush other day. Corina/Michael Dunstan Attendance: as per book Accepted Moved Apologies: as per General I won’t be at the AGM this year Secretary Michael Rush Jason Meeting minutes as it conflicts with our two week Finlayson/Michael Dunstan Minutes of previous meeting: ski trip but I look forward to Accepted Moved Accepted: Craig hearing about the new committee Membership Karolyn Honor Seconded: Julie members and what they can offer Jason Finlayson/Jo Quinn Treasurers Report: the club. Accepted Moved 2010 2011 2012 Trip convenors Adrian Opening Balance $7,559.01 McCormack Karen Vice President: $7447.69 $8309.33 Finlayson/Kevin McCormack Outgoing $8003.83 $10440.25 Thanked the outgoing committee Accepted Moved 14008.41 members for their service. David Wellham Cath Di Incoming $7892.51 $11301.89 Santis Accepted Moved 14166.19 Elections: Mark Honor Jason Closing Balance $7447.69 Finlayson/Jessica Dalkolmo $8309.33 8467.11 All positions are declared vacant Declined Club Account $5867.68 and these are available to be filled. DelegatesVacant $6729.33 7774.92 Kevin McCormack requested that Technical Officer Joey Wellham Olinda Hall Account $1580.01 a poll be used for contested Kevin McCormack/Michael $1580 1580.01 positions. In terms of section 14.9 Dunstan Accepted Moved by of the constitution, 3 members are ballot Presidents Report: required to support this. Mark Honor Hayley I would like to take this opportu- Hadfield/Jessica Dalkolmo nity to thank the outgoing com- Supported by Kevin McCormack, Declined mittee for their hard work over Adrian McCormack (proxy held Craig Young Brett the past 12 months. Hopefully by Kevin) and David Welham. Atkins/Jessica Dalkolmo you have found the experience Accepted worthwhile even if a little time Scrutineers: Julie, David, Karen Editor Joel Dedman Guy consuming. Freeman/Michael Dunstan Position Nominated Accepted Moved by ballot Nominator/Seconder The club has had some great trips Hayley Hadfield Brett Response Result this year with several well attend- Atkins/Alex Caddell Accepted President Brian Flood Jessica ed training weekends, lots of day Dalkolmo/Craig Fitzpatrick trips a variety of weekends and a Assistant Editor Hayley Accepted Moved by ballot great selection of extended trips! Hadfield Jessica Craig Young Alex Big thanks to those members that Dalkolmo/Kevin McCormack Caddell/Brett Atkins Declined put their hands up to run a trip in Declined the past 12 months. Running Michael Dunstan Julie Kevin McCormack Craig trips can be a very rewarding ex- Rush/Kevin McCormack Fitzpatrick/Michael Dunstan perience and if every member ran Declined Accepted one trip a year we would have 120 Hayley Hadfield Mark Vice President Jo Quinn Kevin trips how great would that be! H/Michael Dunstan Accepted McCormack/Michael Dunstan The social calendar was also pret- Moved Accepted Moved by ballot Social

October – November 30 2012 Convenor Julie Rush Jo Subaru & Recreational 4WD October long weekend - Mystery Quinn/Cath di Santis Accepted Club Inc Bay Moved on ballot result General Meeting 28 October – New members trip Craig Young Jason F/Brett Friday 10 August 2012 Fraser Island (David Ackerman) Atkins Accepted Meeting Opened: 8.17 Toorawheena Publicity Officer Jo Quinn Apologies Brian, Heidi, Joel, July 2013: Cape York (Jo Quinn) Craig/ Jessica Accepted Geoff, Sandi, Troy, Kim, Paul B, Delegates Heidi to provide report Moved Adrian McCormack on last Association meeting Fundraising Julie Rush Cath di Attendance: As per attendance Editor Santis/ Jo Quinn Accepted book Moved New Members/Visitors: Thanks for the opportunity to Catering Officer Karen Campbell Various new members/visitors serve as Editor. Looking forward Julie Rush/Michael Dunstan introduced themselves to handover Accepted Moved Topic Comments Julie Rush Craig/Haley Membership Secretary 81 Previous Minutes Members Declined Driver Awareness (2 positions) Accepted: Craig F Social Convener/Publicity Brett Atkins Craig Officer Seconded : Evan Young/Jessica Dalkolmo 4Wd show in October, Business Arising Nil Accepted Moved by Ballot volunteers required. Presidents Report As read Brian Flood Jessica Technical Officer Correspondence In/Out Telstra Dalkolmo/Michael Dunstan Driver Awareness Accepted Invoices, VKS 737, Subaru Club of Mark Honor Jo Quinn/Julie SA, Subaru Club of Qld, Track Thanks to all who attended Rush Accepted Moved by Chat, TLCC. 3 membership the awareness trips ballot renewals. Webmaster Website needs a Webmaster Michael Dunstan RFDS off to send a speaker to little work to update Jessica Dalkolmo/Julie Rush club meeting Fundraising Accepted Moved Confirmation from Parramatta Special Projects Alex Cadell Hayley Council of Hall bookings for Ian’s Table Hadfield/Mark Honor 2012/2013 and Invoice Sergeant @ Arms Various Declined Certificate from Relay for Life criminal charges laid and fines Seargent @arms Robert Moss Treasurers report Closing recorded. Karen Campbell/Sandra Moss balance: Club Account $7774.92 General Business Off Road racing Accepted Moved and Olinda $1580.01. –see Craig F Trip Convenors- Reccie south coast - see David A

Past Trips: Meeting Closed: 9.17pm Xmas in July New committee welcomed and Munga Thirri Meeting closed at 10.25pm Future Trips: Blue Mountains camping: 18 August Master Fire Camping Belangalo: 25 August Mid Sep – Yalwal Illawarra touring (John Hocking) – 9 Sep Yalwal – 15 Sep North Coast/Barrington Tops –

October – November 2012 31 WHO’S WHO ON THE Club committee PRESIDENT [email protected] Brian Flood 0425 270 385 VICE PRESIDENT [email protected] Jo Quinn 0409 771 019 TREASURER [email protected] Kevin McCormack SECRETARY [email protected] Michael Rush 9646 4612 MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY [email protected] Karolyn Honor TRIP CONVENERS [email protected] David Wellham 0419 226 203 Adrian McCormack 4WD ASSOCIATION DELEGATES [email protected] David Horwitz TECHNICAL OFFICER technical_offi [email protected] ‘Joey’ Wellham EDITOR [email protected] Joel Dedman 0415 503 771 ASSISTANT EDITOR [email protected] Sandra Fraser 0409 545 805 SOCIAL CONVENER [email protected] Julie Rush 0409 307 381 PUBLICITY OFFICER [email protected] Jo Quinn 0409 771 019 FUNDRAISING [email protected] Julie Rush 0409 307 381 CATERING OFFICER [email protected] Karen Campbell 4WD TRAINING [email protected] Brett Atkins 0412 208 874 Mark Honor WEBMASTER [email protected] Michael Dunstan SERGEANT-@-ARMS [email protected] Robert Moss 9820 2128

October – November 32 2012 Trip gradings Social/Scenic Sealed roads and 1 smooth unsealed surfaces or tracks. Suitable for all types of vehicles. No previous 4WD experience necessary. Road tyres are acceptable. Suitable for all camper trailers and small caravans.

Easy Dirt trails with possible loose 2 surfaces, potholes, corrugations, shallow mud or puddles. Moderate inclines and declines. 4WD may be required. Low range not required. Some previous 4WD experience or completion of a driver awareness course preferred but not essential. Road tyres are acceptable. Suitable for camper trailers.

Medium Un-maintained trails, awareness course essential. Suitable for GRADE 4 3 moderate to steep terrain, with purpose built, high clearance, heavy duty Kevin McCormack’s Forester on loose rocky and rutted surfaces. camper trailers with brakes and off-road “that” seemingly unconquerable hill in Lidsdale State Forest. As a Sand, water crossings or mud may be hitches. cut-out ascent with high walls, encountered. Low range may be required deep ruts and not much traction with recoveries possible. Previous off- Hard Expect steep terrain, large ruts, there is little to no choice for wheel rock steps, deep water crossings, placement so very few vehicles can road experience necessary. Completion 5 climb it with success. of driver awareness course expected. and mud for majority of trip. Low-range A/T tyres preferred. Suitable for high gearing, high clearance and under clearance, heavy duty camper trailers with body protection required. Completion of off-road hitches. club driver awareness course required. Participation at trip leader’s discretion. Advanced Un-maintained trails, steep A/T tyres minimum. Rated recovery 4 terrain with loose, rocky and rutted points front and rear of vehicle essential. surfaces. Sand, water crossings or mud A hand or vehicle mounted winch must may be encountered. Low range, high be available. Expect recoveries and very clearance and A/T tyres required, with slow progress. No camper trailers. Due recoveries probable. Previous off-road to the inherent danger of this type of trip, experience and completion of a driver children must be closely supervised.

These gradings Minimum recovery equipment: (Please replace the batteries). ■ Jack; are to be used ■ A snatch strap; ■ Wheel brace as a guide only ■ Two rated D shackles; and All vehicles should be in ■ Basic tools; and may change ■ A UHF radio. good mechanical condition ■ Shovel; and due to track Visitors can arrange with and have the following basic ■ First Aid Kit. and weather the trip leader to borrow a equipment: These items should be conditions. handheld UHF radio for the day. ■ Spare wheel, carried on all club trips.

GRADE 1 The New Members trip to the Southern Highlands last spring was a gentle intro to the club.

October – November 2012 33 Convoy and trip procedures

When roads are rough or dusty, 1 maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

Maintain position in convoy except 2 in unusual circumstances. Always wait at intersections to 3 ensure that the vehicle behind you knows which way to go. EXCEPTION: When drivers are known to each other and radio contact has been made, directions may be given over the CB, to allow the convoy to keep moving.

When arriving at a hard section 4 (i.e. creek crossing, steep hill, washout etc.) wait for the vehicle ahead to clear, or to be called through on the CB.

Always stay on the track – Don’t 5 stray into the bush! STAY IN If you want to leave the convoy, tell 6 the trip leader what you want to TOUCH do. Don’t just wander off! Only people nominated by the trip leader When on When using the CB, allow time between trips our 9 should help others through obstacles (“Too 7 transmissions for others to call and keep many cooks …”) club uses transmissions short to allow for emergency broadcast transmissions. The position of “tail-end Charlie” will be channel 10 allotted by the trip leader. This person If there is an emergency call, the trip leader will be required to advise the Trip Leader of 15 UHF 8 should be the ONLY person to reply. If the trip various events during the trip, and stay with leader is unable to clearly receive the message, a his/her vehicle and operate the CB should an The person will be appointed to relay the radio traffic. emergency situation arise. alternate All other transmissions MUST cease until the trip channel is leader advises that the emergency is over. Take nothing but photos (and video), and EXCEPTION: Radio silence may be broken for 11 leave nothing but foot prints (and tyre 16 UHF another emergency. tracks).

October – November 34 2012