Club Magazine

Inc.

Meetings held Second Monday

of each

November month at North Mackay

Affiliated with the QLD Bowls Club

ASSOCIATION 2011 of FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUBS Inc. Next meeting Member of the AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL 7.30pm, FOUR WHEEL DRIVE Monday COUNCIL th Mackay & District 4WD Club Inc. 12 Dec 2011 PO Box 3469 Mackay North Qld 4740

E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.mackay4wdclub.com

Committee Members and Office Bearers 2011-12

President Steve Johnson 0438 005 844 4959 3424 Vice -President Terry Devery 0428 554115 4942 0280 Secretary Alan Lovett 0428 719 105 49551513 Treasurer Fay Devery 4942 0280 Comm ittee Member Steve Whykes 0407 677 075 4969 6087 Driver Awareness & Environment Off Kable Gilliland 0427 371 700 4955 6657 Activities Co -ordinator Dennis Boland 0467 060 050 Ed itor Kathy Searle 4942 7457 Training Off icer #2 4959 3424 Glenis Vichie 49555809 Ass. Editor Michelle J Host Person 0438731822 Sandi Hardy 4969 6087 Ass. Act. Co -ord. Kelvin Nayler 0488549351 Greeter #1 Sherry Dennis 4955 6657 Insurance Off icer Bruce Wolsey 4954 6793 Greeter #2 Angie Brannan 4955 5305 PR Off icer Terry Devery 4942 0280 Ass. Comm. Member Michael WG 4955 2978 QAFWDC Ass Rep #1 Alan Lovett 4955 1513 QAFWDC Ass Rep # 2 Training Officer #1 Kable Gilliland 4955 6657 Web Page ed itor Dave Christensen 4969 5482

The views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual and not necessarily those of the Club. The Association cannot assume responsibility for the material presented by the magazine. Likewise we cannot guarantee or endorse any product offered through our advertising. Club articles may be reproduced in other publications provided accreditation of the author and Mackay & District 4WD Club Inc. is noted. Page 2

MACKAY & DISTRICT 4WD CLUB Inc. ASSOCIATION BY-LAWS (05-05-04)

ACTIVITIES 7) No animals will be brought on Association trips. 1) (a) The Trip Leader should remind all drivers before moving 8) Fuel tanks must be filled prior to the departure time of the trip. off, that convoy procedure should be followed. 9) Fire-arms prohibited on all Association trips and activities. Participants on trips will obey the Trip Leader’s instructions at 10) At Association functions, members are expected to follow ver- all times regarding speed, position in convoy, convoy proce- bal instructions and visual signs erected by the organizers. dure and route to be taken on or off roads and tracks. Association members are responsible for their visitors. The Trip Leader’s instructions will not be deviated from except 11) (a) Bushfire regulations shall be obeyed at all times. in the case of discussion by all members on the trip and a ma- (b) Camp and billy fires must be totally extinguished by water, jority vote on the proposed deviation by those members pre- and/or covered with earth. sent 12) Before breaking camp members will clear the site of all litter Prior to the start of a trip, the Leader must: and rubbish deposited during their stay, and carry it with them i. Arrange suitable rendezvous during the trip at which away from the camp area to a designated rubbish dump or re- all vehicles stop. These are based on either time or ceptacle. distance. 13) When crossing private property and crown land under lease, ii. Inform the driver of the last vehicle that he/she is the gates, clip-rails and property will be left as found, or as in- last vehicle in the convoy. structed by the Trip Leader. Where gates are to be iii. Check with drivers of vehicles that all basic essential opened/closed, the first vehicle behind the Trip Leader will pull equipment is carried in or on each vehicle. Refer over and open the gate and after the convoy passes this vehi- Clauses 4 and 5. cle will close same and fall into convoy in front of Tail End iv. Check with drivers that any specially requested Charlie. This rotation procedure will be repeated for each gate equipment is carried in or on vehicles. open/closure. (b) The lead vehicle will stop at any turn-off or intersection at 14) No member of the Association will at any time knowingly give which doubt may exist as to the correct direction. It will information of any kind to any person, who is not a member of wait for the following vehicle before moving off in the cor- the Association, which may assist that person to gain access rect direction. Each successive vehicle will then wait for to areas which the Association visits on Association activities the following vehicle before moving off. By this means, all where those areas are “off the beaten track”, or not general will follow the lead vehicle and a message can also be knowledge. sent in both directions along the convoy. At other times it 15) The wearing of seatbelts is mandatory. Riding on vehicle is the responsibility of any preceding vehicle to keep the bonnets and tailgates is prohibited. vehicle following in sight. 16) (a) Fauna will not be disturbed. Fishing excepted where per- (c) No vehicle in convoy will pass another vehicle in convoy mitted. without the Trip Leader’s instructions, unless under ex- (b) Flora of any description is not to be removed under any cir- ceptional circumstances, whilst the convoy is moving. cumstances whilst on Association activities. (d) When travelling in convoy on main roads, the distance 17) Motorcycles to be excluded from attending Association outings between any vehicle should not be less than six (6) vehi- and field days. Property owner has discretionary powers cle lengths, to assist overtaking traffic. 18) No person shall exceed the legal alcohol limit when driving in (e) Avoid driving too close to the vehicle in front on bush any Association activity. Nor shall any person consume such tracks, where ratio changing and braking could be a prob- alcohol while driving in any Association activity. lem. 19) Tracks and roads should not be deviated from. This is par- (f) Persons leaving Association convoy or group MUST no- ticularly relevant where Parthenium, Giant Rats Tail or tify the trip leader and if possible, give details of their in- other noxious weed is present. Where required by prop- tentions. erty owner, appropriate vehicle washdown shall take 2) No unofficial competitions or displays of “Four wheel driving” place. Any damage caused to tracks and roads will be re- shall take place during Association trips without permission of paired where required and/or where practicable. Property Owner and/or Trip Leader. [Refer Clause 1 (a) para- 20) It is mandatory for members of M&D4WDC, if when visiting or graph 3]. traversing official club properties to pursue 4WD activity and 3) Vehicles must be registered, maintained and in a good road- on other than a current M&D4WDC event, to register their worthy condition. The Association reserves the right to de- name and the date in the Activities Book. mand a Safety Certificate from an authorized Inspection Sta- ADMINISTRATION tion designated by the Association, at the Member’s expense. 1) Any elected Association Member is disallowed from holding All drivers shall hold a current Drivers License. the same Official Committee Member position, after having 4) Every 4WD vehicle on Association trips and/or 4WD activity served three consecutive terms of office in that same role. must be fitted with front and rear towing points. 2) The appointed Committee Member term extends to 6 months 5) Every 4WD vehicle must carry basic recovery gear and First overall, with the Assistant Committee Member whose term of 3 Aid Kit on Association activities. months is included in the 6 months term assumes voting rights 6) Permission must be obtained from property owners be- after 3 months when the Committee Member retires and the fore travelling on their property. Permits required MUST BE new Assistant is appointed. OBTAINED for Forestry and National Parks. Management Committee Page 3

NORTH JACKLIN New Car Sales, Service & Spare Parts All under the same roof, now at 49 Gordon Street

Whatever your requirements are to fit out your vehicle we at TJM can help

Being four wheel drive enthusiasts ourselves, we know and understand what is required. Many TJM accessories have won national and international awards. Be assured, we can supply the accessories needed to protect your investment and improve its performance, no matter what type of country you drive in. 95 Gordon Street Mackay Ph: 4957 3886 Fax: 4957 2373 Email: [email protected] Page 4

COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

MEETING OPENED: • An invitation from Mackay City Council for the 7.00pm Wednesday 09.11.11 at Kable & Sherry’s President to attend a breakfast for the residence. Community Inclusion group. We attended a meeting of this group in the past regarding ATTENDANCE: helping the Community - date is Mon. 14 th Dennis Boland, Steve Johnson, Terry & Fay Nov. starting at 6 am. Devery, Kable Gilliland, Kelvin Nayler and Steve • Annual Report from 4wd Queensland re their Whykes. AGM held on the 25 th August this year. APOLOGIES: Alan Lovett, Kathy Searle, Michael • Magazine from 4Wheel Cruisin for Sept & Ward-Grodd, Angy. October. Stories on some of their Trips & MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING: various club news articles. • Resolved that the minutes of the previous General Magazine from Mackay Landrover Club for Meeting on Monday (10/10/2011), be confirmed as October. per magazine. Moved by Steve Whykes, • Letter from The Cancer Council re their Seconded by Kelvin, Carried by All. Christmas appeal. • Our Magazine returned for Vic Jordan. Kathy BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES: to check his postal address? • Nil Outwards: CORRESPONDENCE: • E-Mail replies to enquiries. Inwards: • Email enquiry from Jason & Rebecca Lyons TREASURERS REPORT: re. joining club. Fay read the Treasurer’s report. • Cadbury Chocolates Fundraiser flyer. Opening Balance $ 7631.67 • Marketing email offering to improve / upgrade Total deposits $ 418.00 the clubs website with Search Engine Optimi- Total withdrawals $ 93.38 zation. Closing Balance $ 7956.29 • SOONG 4x4 product list. • ACCOUNTS PASSED FOR PAYMENT: Updates & info on various trips from coordina- • tor – Dennis. Australia Post $12.18 • • Survey Form from The Cancer Council to be NQBE $81.20 completed & returned. Moved by Kable, Seconded by Dennis B, Carried • Magazines from Burdekin 4wd Club and by all. Landrover Club of Mackay Newsletter for

Sept. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE TREASURER’S • Receipt from Qld Association of 4wd Clubs re REPORT: our Association Fees. 76 Members @ $ 13.00 Nil = $ 988.00 • Also a survey form to complete from Qld GENERAL BUSINESS: Association regarding more info on what all • Angy requested $ 150.00 to be used to clubs want for the future. purchase a number of small prizes to be Further Inwards Correspondence since distributed at the last meeting in Dec. Committee Meeting on the 9 th : • A small committee to be called for to help • Bank Statement for October 2011 from organise the games & raffle for the Seaforth Commonwealth Bank • Christmas Breakup on 26Th Dec. Statement from Aust Post - $ 18.56. • • We have the Santa Costume organised. Received Yearly Club Fees from Jeff Walker Terry will bring down the Games owned by & Kylie Peters plus Phil & Louise Randall. the Club plus the cricket set, etc. Page 5

• Secretary to send Christmas cards to all our • Trip on this weekend to be led by Kelvin & Property Owners with our thanks. Cable - The Diggings & Hazelwood George. • Cheque for the Mackay Rescue Helicopter to be forwarded this meeting. DRIVER AWARENESS OFFICER: • We will have 3 guest speakers from Narva The following People have completed both Theory Lights giving their time to come along to the & Practical. November meeting. Our thanks to Steve • Kylie Jones. Whykes for organising these speakers. • Jeff Walker. • Shawn & Leanne Pridgeon. ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR: • Jeff Erickson. • Dennis had to cancel trips to Emu Gullies due • Charles & Erica Gosling. to the access road being unpassable. Theory only: • Stringys camp also washed out. • Scott & Whitney Waples and Sherry. • Dennison Creek trip cancelled as the owner was still mustering his cattle. MEETING CLOSED: 8.30pm. Future trips: • Dennis has produced his new activity List.

IAN MCDONALD’S ACROSS AUSTRALIA ADVENTURES (short version)

We left Mackay Sunday 10 th July, two Patrols towing was on to Wappet Road until we reached Telfor Mine camper trailers and one Navara with a roof top camper. and from there on the well maintained Telfor Mine road Our first night was at Jericho, second Winton, third until we reached Marble Bar. From Marble Bar we took Boulia. From there it was onto the dirt towards Alice a shortcut across to the and Springs via the Donohue and Plenty highways. Road south to Karajini National Park. There are two main conditions were pretty good so far. gorges here, Dale and Weano, We had a day at each, both great places but have to do a bit of walking and We had two nights in Alice Springs at a caravan park rock climbing etc to see the best of them. After Karajini and did a bit of site seeing, shopping and washing etc. is was off to Millstrem National Park. On the way we Next it was on through the Macdonnell Ranges with an had a stop at Tom Price for fuel and groceries, a quick overnight stop at Redbank gorge, and then to Papunya visit to deserted Wittenoom and an overnight stop at Mt on the . Papunya was the first Florence station. After checking out Millstrem and Aboriginal community we fuelled up at - $1.99 per litre. camping there overnight we headed for the WA coast Continuing on the Gary Junction Road we camped a and then up to Broome. night a few kilometers down the Sandy Blight Track away from the main road. Next day we headed for the WA border getting fuel at Walungurru (Kintor) Aborigi- nal community, $2.15 per litre. We had many, and I mean many, stops along these roads to inspect and take photos of flowers. After crossing the border we had a brief stop at Kiwirrkurra Aboriginal community and had a couple of nights camped at Jupiter as well for a bit of R&R.

Heading off again we crossed the at Well 33 and got fuel at nearby Kurrawarriji - $3.20 per litre. That hurt. We had to line up for fuel there as apparently there have been a lot of travellers passing A couple of days in Broome and then we headed north this year on the Canning Stock Route. From there it to Cape Leveque with an overnight stop at Middle Page 6

Lagoon. The road wasn’t real good but for some reason was better on the right hand side. Spending three nights at Cape Leveque we had time to visit One Arm Point, take a plane flight to the horizontal waterfall and generally take in the local scenery.

On the way back to Broome we visited an historical church at Beagle Bay and camped at Quondong Point. While at Quondong Point we drove up to James Price Point which has been in the news a bit lately concern- ing establishing an offshore gas well. Every part of the WA coast we saw was very different and fascinating.

Quondong was our last stop on the coast as we headed Along the GR road further our next stop was Manning to Derby to stock up on fuel and food before venturing Gorge. It was quite a walk to the falls but worth it, again on to the . different to what we had seen so far. Near the camp

ground you can even enjoy a swim in the creek only a Our first stop on the Gibb River (GR) road was short distance from the crocs sunbaking on the rocks. Windjana Gorge. We walked the gorge, counted the They didn’t seem to care about their territory being crocs and took in the scenery. The second day there invaded by tourists. From here it was off the GR road we took the plunge into Tunnel creek, literally. With and head to Mitchell Falls having an overnight stop at torch and swimwear we waded through the tunnel in the King Edward River. We took the chopper to the falls to mountain and back again. Great experience! Next was get an overall view of the area and then walked back. I a couple of nights at Silent Grove where you have nearly wore my camera out here, how good is this access to Bell Gorge, a mini Mitchell Falls. So far this place. On the walk back you pass Big Mertel and Little was my favourite spot. We then moved on to Mertel falls. The latter being a great place to swim. Mornington Nature Reserve and visited Sir John Gorge and Diamond Gorge. The only way to see Diamond Gorge properly was to hire a canoe for $65 a day. We shared the cost and took turns.

Page 7

Back on the GR road we had an overnight at Home Valley Station, a modern resort in the middle of no- where, before heading to El Questro. I didn’t know what to expect here but there is lots to see with several gorges, a couple of great lookouts and hot springs to It was now time to start to head towards home so it was relax in. You can either camp in the grassed area with on to Halls Creek and then east on and full amenities or choose one of the many private camp the to Top Springs and then the sites along the river bank. My favourite spot here was to the Sturt Highway. We then went El Questro gorge, being narrow with high sided walls the long way via Daly Waters, Cape Crawford and covered in ferns and a stream flowing down the middle. down to the Barkley highway via Quite tropical. This was our last stop on the GR road so and Rankin road. We were going to stay a night at a it was on to Kununurra where we stayed a few days dam Pete knew about, east of Mt Isa but when we got with a relative of mine on his farm beside the Ord river. there we found a locked gate so we backtracked to the No swimming here though, the crocs here were salty’s. deserted town of Mary Kathleen, more commonly We did some vehicle and trailer maintenance and some known as Mary K, and camped on what was probably sightseeing including day trips to Wyndam and Lake someone’s back yard in the past. All that is there now Argyle. are a few bitumen roads and concrete slabs that must have been carports beside houses. The next phase of our trip was to see the Bungle Bungles so it was down the Great Northern highway We had our last night together at Hughenden where we and onto the dirt again for the drive in to the campsites. stayed in a van park and had tea at the pub. I arrived We walked along the unusual creek bed of Picaninny home nine weeks to the day after leaving Mackay creek and visited Cathedral Gorge, Mini Palms Gorge, having travelled nearly 13,000 kilometres and used just Echinda Chasm and took a chopper flight to see the over 2,000 litres of fuel. Took just over 2,000 photos - place from the air. All well worth seeing. thank goodness for digital technology. Mostly the roads were not too bad with the occasional badly corrugated sections but we seemed to have been lucky enough to have been on a lot of roads that had been recently graded. What was my favourite place? Too hard to pick!!

If anyone wants a copy of the long version of this report email me at [email protected] and I will send it to you.

Ian McDonald

Page 8

MINUTES OF GENERAL MEETING

GENERAL MEETING held at North Mackay Bowls Further Inwards Correspondence since Club on 14th October 2011. Committee Meeting on the 9 th : • Bank Statement for October 2011 from Meeting opened at 7.35pm by Vice-President Terry Commonwealth Bank. Devery. • Statement from Aust Post - $ 18.56. • Received Yearly Club Fees from Jeff Walker & ATTENDANCE: Kylie Peters plus Phil & Louise Randall. As per the attendance book (33 members attending). • An invitation from Mackay City Council for the President to attend a breakfast for the APOLOGIES: Community Inclusion group. We attended a Martin & Vivienne Collins, Des Searle, Scott & meeting of this group in the past regarding Whitney Waples, Natalie Nayler & Steve & Michelle helping the Community - date is Mon. 14 th Nov Johnson starting at 6 am. • Annual Report from 4wd Queensland re their VISITORS : AGM held on the 25 th August this year. Rebecca Lyons, Michelle Calvert-Clark, Ritesh • Magazine from 4Wheel Cruisin for Sept & Naidu, Michael West & Laurie Genrich. October. Stories on some of their Trips & various club news articles. PREVIOUS MINUTES: Resolved that the minutes of • Magazine from Mackay Landrover Club for the previous General Meeting on Monday 10.010.11 October. be confirmed as per magazine. • Letter from The Cancer Council re their Moved by Kelvin, Seconded by Sandi, Carried by all. Christmas appeal.

• Our Magazine returned for Vic Jordan. Kathy to Business arising from previous minutes: check his postal address? Nil

Outwards: SECRETARY FOR CORRESPONDENCE: • Secretary Al gave an overview of the last month’s Email reply to all enquiries. inwards & outwards correspondence. The Secretary moved that the Incoming correspondence be received and the Outgoing • Email enquiry from Jason & Rebecca Lyons correspondence be confirmed. regarding joining club. Moved by Alan, Seconded by Angie, Carried by All. • Cadbury Chocolates Fundraiser flyer. • Marketing email offering to improve / upgrade Business arising: the clubs website with Search Engine Optimiza- • Nil tion. • SOONG 4x4 product list. TREASURER’S REPORT: • Updates & info on various trips from coordinator Treasurer Fay read details of report: – Dennis. Opening Balance $ 7631.67 • Survey Form from The Cancer Council to be Total deposits $ 548.00 completed & returned. Total withdrawals $ 482.18 • Magazines from Burdekin 4wd Club and Closing Balance $ 7697.49 Landrover Club of Mackay Newsletter for Sept. • Receipt from Qld Association of 4wd Clubs re Accounts passed for payment : our Association Fees. 76 Members @ $ 13.00 = • Australia Post $12.18 $ 988.00 • NQBE $81.20 • Also a survey form to complete from Qld • Raffle reimbursement to Steve Johnson Association regarding more info on what all $78.80 clubs want for the future. • Annual Donation to CQ Rescue $300.00 Page 9

Moved by Fay, Seconded by Kable, Carried by All. water at this time of year however still impressive sights. The group then headed back COMMITTEE MEETING BUSINESS: towards camp with a stop off & play doing a little The Secretary gave a synopsis of the Committee hill climbing. After this the group made way meeting held on Wednesday night 9 th Nov 2011. back to camp to pack up & head home, a great Nil business arising from the committee meeting time being had by all. minutes. FINES: GENERAL BUSINESS: • Kelvin – for abandoning his new vehicle at one • Christmas camp & dinner at Seaforth, names in point & riding with Charlie so that he didn’t get book asap please to arrange for catering. any scratches on the new paintwork!!! • Volunteers called for as a Christmas activities • Kenny – for holding up the convoy so that he organising party. could buy some “liquid refreshments” from the • Bruce Wolsey suggested at the Annual General Finch Hatton pub.(my spy’s tell me that the Meeting a possible amendment to the number of group had to wait outside the pub for it to open Committee Member positions in the Mackay & on Sat morning). District 4wd Club. He has drawn up a table • Laurie – for taking the group on a “several km suggesting consolidated roles for consideration walk” over numerous hills just to have a look of all members prior to a general discussion at a (this is why we drive 4 wheel drives Laurie so we club meeting. The table is in the Oct magazine don’t have to walk……) for all members to review & comment on. Please • Sherry, Andrew & Kenny – for not going on the forward comments or questions back to Club walk. One members excuse was to look after the Secretary for collation & discussion at next kids & the others stayed on for moral support. General Meeting. • Kelvin – for dropping the “F-bomb” over the radio while kids were listening. ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR: • Andrew – for over estimating his vehicles • Unfortunately there have been a few capabilities. cancellations of recent trips for varying reasons • Kelvin - for underestimating his vehicles such as, rain, washed out access roads & capabilities & turning round on the hill climb. mustering. Regardless of this, our intrepid Activities Coordinator Dennis soldiers on to find & plan interesting & adventurous trips for all to FUTURE TRIPS enjoy. However this job is significantly easier if • 26 & 27 Nov – Christmas Party & Camp at members continue to contribute trip ideas of Seaforth places they like or new places that they would • 4 Dec – Freshwater Point Day Trip like to go. • 3 & 4 Dec – Recce to Chopper Creek - TBC • 12th & 13th Nov – Diggings / Hazelwood Gorge • 17 Dec – Christmas Lights Tour trip – an excellent campsite at present with a • 14 Jan – Pizza and Pav Social clean grassy area ideal for setting up on. This • 26 – 29 Jan – Australia Day Long Weekend trip, led by Kable & Kelvin saw 5 vehicles in all Camp – destination TBC make way from Mackay to the campgrounds on

Sat morning. After arrival & setting up, the DRIVER AWARENESS REPORT: intrepid group set off for some touring (aka – • Kable has been kept very busy recently with adventure) with a drive along a little used back numerous new members completing their road through to the old quarry & then on to Theory & Practical Awareness sessions. It is Stringy’s campsite. Day 2 saw the trekkers club policy that all members must have head off after a leisurely breakfast to Hazelwood completed both of these sessions in order to Gorge. From reports this drive was a little more participate (& drive) on any club initiated outings. challenging however well worth the effort to get

to as the gorge is an area that not many other

than the 4WD fraternity get to see. Not a lot of

Page 10

GUEST SPEAKER: • Darrell Looker and Travis Andreas from NARVA VOTED IN: gave an interesting talk & demonstration on a • Nil variety of new NARVA products including vary- ing sizes & intensity spot lights & light bars Next Committee Meeting on 7th December 2011. currently available in their product range. Next General Meeting on 12th December 2011. • George Davies from PROJECTA gave an equally informative talk & presentation on a Meeting Closed: 9.35 pm by Vice-President Terry range of products including meters, battery Devery. chargers, controllers & inverters along with their most suited uses & compatibilities to specific purposes.

DIGGINGS CAMP REPORT 12-13 NOVEMBER

Finally a weekend that went ahead! Five vehicles in Going back down the hill we proceeded with a bit of all met up at Marani at around 9:30am. Kelvin was low range work required, arriving at camp around our fearless leader in his new land cruiser 76 with 5pm. It was time for nibbles and to get the camp fire Ken and Angela in the GU, Charlie in his trusty old started using wood we had collected on the way Rodeo, Andrew in his 80 series and myself and back. During the night thousands of fireflies put on a Sherry in the Ranger. spectacular display around the camp - it was truly a Not long after we set off up the valley toward the sight to see. Diggings on the way a quick pit stop was needed at The next morning after breakfast we proceeded back the local in Finch Hatton where Ken needed to stock up the Eungella road and on to Hazelwood Gorge. up on some much needed liquid supplies. We arrived The track in was a little challenging in some spots at camp a little after 11 and we all got to work setting with Kelvin requiring the use of his diff locks at one up our camps for the night ahead. Once the camps point. We arrived at the gorge late in the morning were set, we all sat down for lunch during which where we stopped for a photo op and to take in the Laurie arrived. spectacular scenery. After we had taken in everything Once lunch was over it was decided we would take a this beautiful place had to offer, we proceeded back trip along the range to have a look at Stringy’s camp. to camp finding a challenging little track along the After dusting the cobwebs of the short stick the way. Ken was first to the top in his GU making it look convoy proceeded up the hill toward the quarry and easy with the big 35s. Kelvin proceeded to follow onto the Eungella road. It was a quick trip into but soon decided he would not take his new Toyota Stringy’s with little trouble had at the wash out on the where the Nissan had just been. After a tricky mid track in. We had a quick look around at the recently hill turn where Kelvin needed to use his diff lockers cleared camp site and then decided that we would once more, he proceeded to the bottom leaving the proceed up the track as far as we could before track clear for Andrew in his 80 series to save some setting off up the creek on foot for a bit of exploration. face for the Toyotas. Andrew made it to the top with a Now at the foot of a sizable hill it was decided we bit of good wheel placement and mud tyres always would follow the track up to a corner approximately help. Charlie and myself had chickened out about a half way up. At this point we then decided we would third the way up and turned back for camp where we follow the track to the crest of the hill. Once at the all met up once more. top it was clear that the track would keep going for After lunch we packed up camp leaving the Diggings quite a distance!! Now parched from the hot sun we around 12 . T he convoy proceeded back to Eungella walked back to the vehicles. Andrew was good where after a quick pit stop we said our goodbyes enough to supply us with some refreshments before and went our separate ways. A good time was had by we proceeded back to camp. At the turn off to the all who attended. quarry Laurie departed bidding us all a good night. Story by Kable Gilliland Page 11

SEAFORTH CHRISTMAS CAMP 26-27 NOVEMBER

Following the great time had by all last year, the Seaforth Park was again chosen as the venue for the 2011 Christmas party. Some members were able to leave early and we set up our camps on the Friday to make the most of the weekend. The ‘camp’ dynamic has now changed slightly as more caravans seem to be appearing on these weekend trips. Friday night saw the group all gathered together for the usual talk & a few cold ales.

Despite being at the beach, the lack of any breeze saw a hot night which was thankfully followed by a lovely morning. We all enjoyed an easy breakfast then settled in to help the new arrivals set up and get Handing out presents to the kids ready for the day’s activities. The young ones first enjoyed a dip in the pool then the ‘serious’ business of the annual cricket game evolved. Some of us must be getting older as I think it is getting harder to chase the balls each year. We need more young fielders!!

Fun with bubble blowers for all

The annual cricket game Bath time finished, we then made our way down to the Seaforth Bowling Club for tea. The club had The cricket was followed by more games for the kids done a lovely job with the tables & we were all soon as Erin & Fay had organised Egg & Spoon races, seated & tucking in to our meals. Jumping Balls, Bubble Blowers, etc, to keep them entertained. The last game of ‘Pin the Sheep’ on the board blindfolded was hotly contested, with Mark & Natalie having a dispute over who was the final winner. The games were followed by the handing out of the presents, lollies & goodies to all the little & big kids, to finish off a great afternoon of activities.

Dinner at the Seaforth Bowls Club

Egg and Spoon race Page 12

Around mid evening a new sound was heard & to the raffle draws & the lucky seat prizes. I think most of clanging of his bell, Santa arrived on the scene. the members walked away from the evening with a Once seated, he asked the children if they had been present. The excitement over, we then proceeded good throughout the year to deserve a present. He back to the camping area for some quiet drinks and a got a resounding yes, especially from the Ward- talk. Grodd boys.

It must be hard work handing out presents & making children laugh, as I noticed Santa had to stop half way through to recharge his wine glass. This should be a fine if we could find out where Santa lives? Another fine should also be forthcoming for the Brazen Lass who just had to sit on Santa’s knee to beg for a present.? I thought it was the ‘little’ kids night?

Erin, Fay & Dennis – the awesome organising committee

Sunday morning was nice & cool and a good morning for relaxing. Breakfast over, some members checked out the markets while others went for a swim or a walk. It was then time to pack up the tents & caravans and to head for home. A great weekend was had by all & I am sure the kids will remember the Santa with the big and little kids weekend & this Santa for the rest of the holidays.

Again our thanks must go to Erin, Fay & Dennis for A Merry Christmas to all from Fay & Terry Devery the organising of the weekend as they then followed (story and photos). up Santa’s visit with the Lucky Door Prize, many

On behalf of the Mackay & District 4WD Club Committee, we would like to thank all members for their participation & support in 2011. Wishing all safe travels wherever you may be over Christmas / New Year & look forward to catching up again in 2012. Merry ChrisChristtttmasmas and Happy New YearYear!!!!

Page 13

NARVA & PROJECTA GUEST SPEAKERS

Steve Whykes kindly organised for Darrell Looker heavy duty rubber grommets isolate the lamp from and Travis Andreas from NARVA Automotive Lighting the frame providing protection from constant vibration and Electrical and George Davies from PROJECTA and provide a steady light on the road. In three years to guest speak for us at the October meeting. of manufacture, there have been no broken brackets or issues with this lamp apparently. With three bolt Darrell outlined the wide range of NARVA products mounting and requiring a special tool (provided) to from their 225mm Driving lamps to their LED work bolt & unbolt as an anti-theft measure you can be lamps. sure these lamps stay on your vehicle. They are available in either halogen or H.I.D. and the choice of The NARVA 225mm driving lamps were developed in either a black or chrome mount. house following extensive research and development in their own light laboratory. The Ultima 225 lamps provide exceptional performance featuring virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lenses and lens protectors, anti-glare guard, improved mounting bracket and added adjustability by being multi- positional. They come pre-wired with weather proof connectors for simple DIY installation. They are available in traditional 100 watt halogen, halogen blue (more comfortable for long night drives as reflects better on road markings and signs) and H.I.D. (providing extraordinary light and a very comfortable white powerful beam). The Ultima 225 is available as either a pencil beam, broad beam or as a combina- tion of both to improve road visibility. Following a club member’s question, Darrell discussed that whilst Another of NARVA’s products is light bars which are the lights were fine for creek crossings and water not driving lights but will light up large areas. The spray, they should not be submerged for long periods light spreads so is useful for slow terrain. A of time. If you did find yourself stuck in a river cross- combination of a light bar with H.I.D lamps is an ing, make sure you drain the globe before use. excellent choice for long night drives.

NARVA work lamps come in a variety of sizes from a Baby LED which outputs 550 lumens of light or spreads light 30-40 metres off the back of your vehicle. The 1200 lumen lamp only draws 0.8amps and the 2000 lumen lamp lights up an area 60-70 metres off the back of your vehicle and is available with stainless steel fittings in white or black.

The NARVA Extreme is a new concept in driving lamp construction where the light is mounted within a protective steel frame that suspends the lamp from three points. The use of these anchor points and Page 14

Also available are a 10 watt LED which is very charged and will last much longer than if they are run compact with a 800 lumen round spot pattern and a down and charged back up. cigarette lighter powered torch. NARVA has also designed a map reading LED light which is hard mounted with a solid yet flexible arm – great for cars, campers and caravans.

Ask Steve and the staff at TJM if you need more Inverters are another of PROJECTA products which information on these products. George discussed. There are two different types of inverters – modified sine wave and true sine wave. A Next George Davies discussed the wide variety of true/pure sine wave inverter replicates 240 volt power battery related products available from PROJECTA – true where as modified sine wave power comes out a battery chargers, solar power, jump starters, dual bit dirty which is no problem for lighting but can affect battery products, maintenance products etc. medical equipment or TVs. The more power you require, the bigger the inverter you need so George recommended that you buy one size bigger than you need to save on upgrades. For example a 150 watt size inverter is basically useful for phone and laptop charging on the move.

George outlined how PROJECTA designed a multi- chemistry battery charger to ensure batteries are PROJECTA inverters come with a remote control and charged properly regardless of if they are starting sleep function to save power overnight. All batteries (calcium) or deep cycle batteries (wet, ACM PROJECTA designed inverters have inbuilt safety (aka dry cell) or gel). The PROJECTA multi- features but George still encouraged the purchase of chemistry battery charger has an adjustable output to a residual current device (safety switch) for added increase or decrease the charging rate and has 16 safety. combinations of charging to cover all battery types. A remote control is also included so you can see how The club would like to thank Darrell, Travis and much power is left in your battery. George from NARVA and PROJECTA for their time and informative presentation. Thanks also to Steve Why is a battery charger necessary? A running car Whykes for organising these guest speakers. only provides enough charge for a starter battery so a deep cycle battery won’t be getting a proper charge Editors’ note – all care has been taken with transcrib- which will result in a shorter life. Also some ‘smart ing this information from the oral presentation but I power saving’ new cars turn off their alternators when take no responsibility and club members are cruising at 100kms/hr to save fuel. It is good encouraged to undertake their own research or maintenance to charge your deep cycle batteries contact TJM. every few months. Batteries should be kept fully Page 15

DEC - JAN 2011/12

Mon 12th DECEMBER – GENERAL MEETING AT NORTH MACKAY BOWLS CLUB @ 7.30pm

Sat 17 th DECEMBER – CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR Trip Leader: Kathy Searle Leisurely drive around town checking out lights, and a possible stop off for a nightcap at Coffee Club or Mcafe. Trip leaves at 6.15 pm from The Lagoons car park.

Sat 14 th JANUARY – PIZZA & PAV SOCIAL NIGHT Trip Leaders: Terry & Fay Where: Deverys residence, 19 Raymond Croker Ave, Mt Pleasant. Leaders: Terry & Fay Starts from 5.00pm. $7.00 per ADULT OVER 13 YEARS, CHILDREN UNDER 13 YEARS FREE for purchase of Pizzas and Pavs and tarts etc. Club will subsidise any shortfall. A wonderful social night. Kids, young and old have a ball. Names in trip book early, please for numbers for catering.

Thurs 26 th – Sun 29 th JANUARY – AUSTRALIA DAY LONG WEEKEND CAMP For those able to take the Friday off work. Suggested locations – Carnarvon Gorge, Byfield Nat Park, Five Rocks, Others? Location to be confirmed shortly.

Mon 13th FEBRUARY – GENERAL MEETING AT NORTH MACKAY BOWLS CLUB @ 7.30pm

Note: Thursday evening is the final notice to attend a trip. Names in trip book for all activities please. Trip Contacts Dennis Boland on 0467 060 050, Email: [email protected] or Kelvin Nayler on 0488549351, Email : [email protected] Further information on some of these trips can be found on our Web site www. mackay4wdclub.com

HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS AND GO OFFROAD AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE...

www.cartoonstock.com Page 16

E-mail: [email protected]

From: The Editor Mackay & District 4WD Club Inc PO Box 3469 Mackay North Qld 4740

Postage Send to Paid Australia

Make the Club Meeting night a social night out!!! Join some of our members and enjoy a pre-meeting meal

From 6.00 pm Meals from $12.50 @ North Mackay Bowls Club

Before the Meeting This is a good way for all members, including new members to socialize & get to know each other .