SEQA Issue 1 - Travel, Leisure, Lifestyle by Auto Alliance Group

TRAVEL – LEISURE – LIFESTYLE ISSUE 1, 2009

Inside this issue: ★ Trakka’s Trakkaway 850 Motorhome ★ Lexus LS 600hl Hybrid Limousine ★ Boating Clubs ★ Ski NZ this Winter ★ Broome Australia’s Tropical Paradise ★ Cool Cars for your Kids ★ Hyatt Coolum – Golfers Dilemma Plus much More ...

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contents Features

Ski New Zealand

What is your idea of the perfect ski holiday. Great snow? Gentle slopes, or steeps for thrills? Is it a variety of resorts or a buzzing après scene with the backdrop of picturesque scenery? Look no further, as New Zealand has all this plus more.

Lexus LS600hl

Lexus’ Luxury Limousine. The LS600hl has personality. It’s enjoyable to drive. You can drive it hard and it responds and rewards and the next moment you can drive it like the limousine it is. It is not often you can consider a quarter of a million dollar vehicle a bargain but the LS600hl is.

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A little piece of Paradise in the Hunter. ROCK Restaurant has enjoyed great success since opening in September 2006, being awarded two Chef’s Hats and being named Best Regional Restaurant in the 2009 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, amongst other notable awards.

Regulars

25 Travel

– Broome

Australia’s Tropical paradise. From my experience, it conjures up breathtaking images of exotic beaches, pearling luggers, adventure and cocktails at sunset. It is hard to imagine just what Broome is like; you have to experience it.

Hyatt Coolum

28 Boating – Boating clubs

Trakka 850

34 Motoring

Relax and Golf. Looking for something special for a Winter break away, then look no further than the Hyatt Regency Coolum Hotel, which is situated on Australia’s beautiful Sunshine Coast.

32 Rock Restaurant

Travelling with Trakkaway 850 Motorhome. Trakka moves to a bigger playground. The Trakkaway 850 is absolutely worth a look if you’re in the market for a “C” class motorhome and at an advised $202,225 drive away it represents pretty good value

Share the cost. For those of you who have not heard of the concept of shared ownership of luxury boats you are in for a treat. There are a number of ways to share the cost of owning or using a luxury cruiser.

‘Fully Sick’ cars for Gen ‘Y’. In the minds of Generation Y, cars need to perform, only lightly touch the environment, look good, deliver on safety, be reliable and be well appointed. “But everyone must know that this is my car”.

39 Technology update

Digital TV. Between 2010 and 2013 analog free-to-air TV signals are being switched off and replaced with digital-only signals. How will this affect you? Jeff Daniels explains so we can get a clearer picture

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EDITORS COMMENTS W

elcome to the launch of SEQA a new Travel and Lifestyle magazine.

Firstly let me thank you for taking the time to read our magazine, we are totally enthusiastic about our new baby and hope you will get an abundance of pleasure from it as well. SEQA is deliberately aimed at providing some light reading over coffee and is focused on travel and lifestyle. SEQA is all about seeking quality in your life. That may mean reading about luxurious five star resorts getting ideas for your next break away, or reading about the latest technological marvels that seem to fill our lives. Alternatively it may be something simple that enriches your everyday existence. The SEQA quality lifestyle philosophy is about stealing the moments that you remember no matter where or when. Over the coming issues you will discover that SEQA is deliberately broad in its subject choices. Diversity is truly one of the keys to an interesting and fulfilled lifestyle.

In this first issue we have dived into the deep end of subject diversity with our topics. We look at a skiing holiday in New Zealand. What exactly does going digital mean for your television viewing? Do you want to get away and see Australia; perhaps Trakka’s Trakkaway 850 motorhome is your answer. Many of our readers have children that fall into the Generation “Y” segment. We review six of the better choices for vehicles for them and examine their environmental credentials. Travel, motoring, technology, boating etc we have it all in the very first issue of SEQA Well enough of my ramblings, I hope you enjoy this first issue of SEQA. We are fairly relaxed and laid back here and would love to hear from you what you think about our new baby. After all, this entire magazine is about you. Our aim is to enhance your lifestyle. Without you reading it and getting knowledge or pleasure from it why would we bother.

As you are reading this you may wish to dwell on the fact that you have received the ﬁrst edition of SEQA publications, but also on just how you received it. This magazine has been brought to you free of charge because you are a valued client of the business that sent it.

Happy days and cheers!

This magazine is exclusively available to you as a client of that business. Many businesses talk about the value of their clients and about what they do for them. The fact you are reading this magazine goes one step further. It demonstrates just how valued you are as a client. You wont see SEQA on the newsagent shelves.

Editorial Enquiries: seqa@autoalliancegroup.com.au

In this current economic climate where there is much talk of doom and gloom, we believe that clients are the backbone of business stability and growth. It is our hope that you continue to support the business that supports you.

Marketing Director: Steve Lawson steve@anyauto.com.au ph: 0416 731 600

Rob Fraser Editor

EDITORIAL Editor: Rob Fraser cooee@autoalliancegroup.com.au

Graphic Designer & Production: Colin Lewis art2print@optusnet.com.au ph: 0413 054 884 Regular Contributors: Rob Fraser, Jeff Daniels, Peter Wilson, Stephen Lawson,

ADVERTISING Advertising enquiries: steve@anyauto.com.au Copyright: Material appearing in SEQA Publications is copyright and reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited

If its an Employment/Product/Service/Event/Advertisment/ Artwork or Printing from concept to supplied layout LET US TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF YOU, we can make it happen with design, copywriting, production and despatch to any newspaper/printer in Australia or New Zealand with our On-Line Despatch System.

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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRECIOUS NEW ZEALAND

KIA ORA What is your idea of the perfect ski holiday? Great snow? Gentle slopes, or steeps for thrills? Is it a variety of resorts or a buzzing aprĂ¨s scene with the backdrop of picturesque scenery? Look no further, as New Zealand has all this plus more, and could become the ideal winter paradise for your next ski holiday. This year is looking to be as good or better than 2008, which was a bumper season. 6 SEQA

Photo: Tommy Pyatt (Custom)

There h a s never been a better time to book your New Zealand ski holiday with cheap ﬂights across the Tasman and value for money ski packages on offer throughout the countries premiere ski resorts. Many packages include an exchangeable ski pass, which makes it possible to swap snow activities for off mountain adventures. In fact in 2008 about 70,000 of your fellow Aussies did just that, making up over 50% of all visitors to the NZ ski ﬁelds. Not only is there a longer snow season, higher slopes and generally better ski conditions, there is heli skiing, favourable exchange rate, adventure packed après ski conditions and heaps of fun! A ski holiday in New Zealand is quite different from an Australian ski holiday. As New Zealand’s ski areas are high in the mountains and many are on environmentally protected land there is limited on mountain (ski-in/ ski-out) accommodation. This means daily driving to the slopes, sometimes right to the peaks, or using the resorts transport facilities. The ski areas provide excellent day services including ski hire, children’s care and restaurants. However at nighttime other than some night skiing, the only people on the mountain are the maintenance staff! Après ski activity centres around the nearby resort towns located at the bottom of the ski areas. These towns are full service villages with bars, restaurants, accommodation, activities, spa services and retail Photo: Lake Wanaka Tourism

shopping. But first things first ... where exactly are you going to stage your New Zealand winter adventure? With the exception of the North Island’s Mt Ruapehu ski fields, which are home to arguably New Zealand’s biggest, longest and highest ski areas the rest of New Zealand’s ski, fields are located in the southern island.

Mt Ruapehu T

Mt Ruapehu, located in the central North Island is home to New Zealand’s two largest ski areas (Whakapapa and Turoa). There’s over 1800 hectares, the highest lift access in New Zealand at 2322m and one of the longest vertical descents in Australasia of 722m. It offers something for everyone, with worldclass learner’s facilities, along with some of the best natural terrain in the country. It is situated in Tongariro National Park, which is classiﬁed as a dual World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and cultural signiﬁcance. You can enjoy spectacular views over the entire central North Island including Mt Ngauruhoe, which featured as Mt Doom in the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. The resorts also boast the longest season, from mid June until mid-October and on occasion there has been Christmas (mid-summer) skiing! On the south Island there you are spoiled for choice. Most ski resorts in the South Island are situated high on the slopes of the Southern Alps, which

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slice through the Island. This environment is one where heli-skiers relish the deep powder and remote locations. Skiers and riders can choose to ski a glacier, ride the tubes at one of the ski resorts or schuss their way down the varied slopes. Near Wanaka there is New Zealand’s only Nordic ski area (Snow Farm) and an area only for freestyle skiing and riding (Snow Park). Coronet Peak and Snow Park NZ offers the only night skiing in New Zealand.

Queenstown T

Probably the best-known and most visited area is Queenstown, which is New Zealand’s premier four-season lake and alpine resort. It has several ski areas, a crystal clear lake, lively après ski culture and all the activity of a cosmopolitan resort town that creates an enviable winter lifestyle in a spectacular environment.

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Ski The Remarkables’ three sunny bowls, marvel at the big mountain alpine vista and take on the ﬁnger chutes for lunchtime sundeck bragging. An expanded crèche and kids centre, catering for little one’s from 3 months to young adults at 17 years, make this the logical family choice. Three terrain parks, including a beginner park and the only Burton Stash in the Southern Hemisphere ensures riders of all abilities can learn and progress in a safe and stimulating environment. Think Coronet Peak and think wide ego skiing, think steeps and deeps and think back bowls for the truly serious. Coronet Peak is the local’s choice, where the early birds schuss before work and visitors wonder how they can leave the mountain’s diverse terrain at all. It is the South Islands most popular ski resort and for good reason. Photos: Lake Wanaka Tourism

Itching for more? Two words - heli ski. Choppers access Southern Alps terrain you’ve previously only met in your sleep. The ultimate adventure for advanced skiers and boarders, heli-skiing provides an opportunity to access some of the most pristine and challenging steeps available After dark Queenstown buzzes with nightlife in sophisticated wine bars, jovial pubs, cosmopolitan cocktail lounges, casinos and even an ice bar. Many venues have live music and entertainment and are in close proximity so you can hop with ease from bar to club. Winter establishments offer crackling log ﬁres, plush leather couches and cosy, convivial atmospheres. The après ski scene is unparalleled anywhere in New Zealand.

Snow Park NZ is a freestyle mecca for snowboarders and skiers tucked away in the beautiful Southern Alps of New Zealand, located on the Lee family highcountry farm, which has been in the family for over 87 years. Featuring two superpipes, a quarter pipe, big kickers, 40+ rails, hits, jumps and more, Snow Park has something for everyone including the recently added Half Pint beginner park

Methven T

Stand at the top of Mt Hutt ski area, the highest lift access in the Southern Alps, take several deep breaths of crisp clean mountain air, soak up stunning views across mountain peaks or out to the Pacific Ocean and feel the stress of daily life loosen its grip then fall away entirely. When you’re ready, make your first turn and whoop your way into a winter holiday. Later, when exhausted, relax into the legendary hospitality of Methven, the warm village heart of winter in the Southern Alps. At the foot of the Southern Alps in Canterbury, Mt Hutt is renowned for some of the best snow in Australasia. It offers spectacular views across the Canterbury Plains to the Pacific Ocean, creating an amazing sense of space, and regularly has one of the longest & most consistent seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. Opening in early June and extending right through until late October, it has some of the best spring skiing on offer

Wanaka T

Over the Crown Range from Queenstown is Wanaka; a lakeside town that serves four-world class ski and snowboard resorts. Wanaka is situated in a dramatic glacier-carved basin on the shores of the lake. This township is the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park, and four internationally rated ski areas; Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone Ski Area plus Snow Farm - New Zealand’s only Nordic and cross country ski area, and Snow Park – the Southern Hemisphere’s only dedicated terrain park resort. With a base elevation of 1670m above sea level, Cardrona is high, cold and renowned for its natural snow plus wide-open spaces. It is known as the friendly mountain and is excellent for kids Treble Cone offers the longest vertical rise in the Southern Lakes, un-crowded slopes, new wide intermediate groomed trails and legendary off piste powder skiing unrivalled in Australasia. Photo: Penny Eggleton

From the Mt Hutt carpark, Mt Hutt helicopters can get you to the superb North Peak within minutes. The peak run offers 800 vertical metres of down and is an ideal introduction to heliskiing or boarding. Methven Heliski, Mt Hutt Helicopters and Mt Potts Backcountry all offer heli-skiing and at Mt Potts you’ll also ﬁnd New Zealand’s only helicopter accessed ‘Heli-Park’ skiing experience.

ANTICIPATED OPENING DAYS 2009 RESORT AREA Coronet Peak Mt Hutt The Remarkables Cardrona Treble Cone Turoa Whakapapa

DATE 6 June 30 May 20 June 26 June 27 June 20 June 27 June

Now remember if all that skiing is too much then Winter holiday makers that visit New Zealand have the ability to use their inter-changeable ski pass for a range of other activities including tandem skydiving, jet boating, massage & spa, paragliding, cruises, casinos and cultural experiences.

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The ability to intersperse a ski holiday with so many other New Zealand adventures and activities allows traveling parties, whether they be families or friends, the chance to try a range of experiences all in one holiday!

Getting There T

Air New Zealand flies their recently refurbished 767 and A320 aircraft to New Zealand up to 140 times a week from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast and Cairns, connecting with 27 domestic destinations across New Zealand’s North and South Islands. There are direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane into Queenstown and numerous direct flights into Christchurch, We l l i n g t o n and Auckland airports. Ten cool things to do on your NZ ski holiday 1. Have your photo taken from the top of The Remarkables with Lake Wakatipu in the background and the resort of Queenstown beneath 2. Ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon 3. Take a few friends heliskiing in knee-deep powder on one of the hundreds of slopes behind Queenstown, Wanaka. 4. Ski the volcanic slopes on Mt Ruapehu and view

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yet another volcano - Mt Taranaki in the distance 5. Enjoy an après ski Gluwhein in front of the outdoor open fire at Barluga, Post Office Lane 6. Satisfy your adrenalin ‘fix’ with jet boating and bungy jumping in Queenstown 7. Going night skiing is an absolute “must do” while in Queenstown 8. Do a face plant in fresh powder snow with all your friends watching! 9. Slide down groomed tracks on specifically designed inner-tubes in The Ozone Tubing Park 10. Spend a night on the mountain at Snow Park’s luxury apartment catching a beautiful sunset over the Pisa Range from your private hot tub And just one more because we always like to give you more 11. Get up at the crack of dawn and experience First Tracks. Riding the Coronet Express lift from 8am, before the lifts ‘officially’ open at 9am. Whether it’s fresh powder or groomed corduroy, that first hour on untracked snow, with the sun rising out over the mountain, and only a few like-minded enthusiasts is second to none! It is not too late to book now for your New Zealand skiing experience and make the most of deeper, closer snow and a fantastic après ski atmosphere.

For more information on a skiing holiday in New Zealand visit their tourism website at www.newzealand.com/travel/Australia

Photos: Top, Tsutomo Endo (Custom). Bottom, Mike Holden

LEXUS LS600hl LUXURY HYBRID LIMOUSINE ROB FRASER REVIEWS

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What are we Testing?

We had the Lexus LS600hl Luxury Hybrid Limousine. The version we drove was the special 4-seat model, which retails for $259,900 and there are no options as everything is included. The LS600hl is the world’s ﬁrst V8 hybrid AWD luxury car powered by a quad-cam 5.0L V8 engine producing 290kW of power at 6400rpm and 520Nm of torque at 4000rpm. Its 650-volt electric drive motor delivers 165kW of power and 300Nm of torque, with that torque available from zero rpm, the highest instantaneous torque of any production car LS 600hL’s hybrid system blends the two power sources according to operating conditions to provide a maximum 327kW of power - equivalent to a six-litre petrol engine. It is equipped with the most powerful Lexus Hybrid Drive system to date and an electronically controlled CVT and drives through a sophisticated AWD system

The stylists have prevailed, as this is a sleek, stylish limousine, with a drag coefﬁcient of just 0.27.

What’s its Purpose?

The vehicle is 120mm longer than LS 460, and all of the increased length is devoted to a longer wheelbase, which translates to increased interior cabin space.

What’s Good & Not so Good?

LS 600hL has an overall width of 1875mm and overall height of 1480mm. The wide, horizontally latticed grille identiﬁes the new LS as a Lexus, while the blue highlights to the ‘L’ emblem distinguishes LS 600hL as the hybrid ﬂagship of the Lexus range.

A Luxury Limousine that is environmentally friendly and shows that you care about the Planet.

What’s Good Almost Everything?

What’s Not so Good Price, small boot space.

Drive Notes:

OUTSIDE: The Lexus LS 600hL is the largest Lexus sedan ever to roll off the Tahara production line. Overall length is 5150mm and with a wheelbase of 3090mm it presents a sleek proﬁle that masks its size.

LS 600hL’s long cabin and broad, groundhugging stance and custom-designed sevenspoke 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels and Dunlop tyres hint at its handling prowess. The overall look is long and lean. INSIDE, COMFORT & FEATURES: As you would expect from a vehicle costing over $250,000 the LS600hl is exceptionally comfortable and full of almost every conceivable luxury that you could wish for.

As an overview there are a couple of things that are immediately apparent. The interior is immaculate as well as presenting one of the better thought out interior layouts we have experienced. The detail is faultless, right down to the hand stitching on the leather done by craftsman. The other thing you notice immediately is the quietness. Not only because of hybrid technology but Lexus has done everything they can to make the LS600hl whisper quiet. Not so immediate but increasingly apparent the more you use the vehicle is the design philosophy of user-friendly technology. The LS600hl is full of the latest technology but it works seamlessly and is very easy to use. This is evident from the moment of initial approach to the vehicle, including Smart Key access, easy door closing assistance, a powered boot lid, illumination of the vehicle sequenced to correspond with the entry or exit of the driver and passengers, and a push-button ‘System Start’. Rear passengers beneﬁt from air conditioned seats that automatically move rearward to aide with exit, recline to attain maximum comfort, front and side laminated windows and rear cabin push button sunblinds. The 4seat version has a full centre console for the rear passengers that house the controls LS 600hL features the segments most intuitive and user-friendly vehicle function control system, allowing users to enact any of its climate, comfort or entertainment functions with ease. The system is one of the few on the market to combine the advantages of both touch-screen and voice command to control several functions of the navigation, audio and air conditioning systems, as well as the BluetoothTM hands-free phone*. In addition, the driver can use steering wheel-mounted

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reduce collision injury and damage and the. Active Cruise Control (ACC) monitors the road ahead of you. Exclusive to the LS 600hL, a submarine airbag in the Ottoman seat cushion helps optimise the position of the lower torso in a collision, for greater seatbelt restraint. LS 600hL’s SRS airbag package (11 in total ) includes dual stage twin chamber front airbags, side airbags and knee airbags for the front seat occupants. There are also full length curtain shield airbags and SRS rear side airbags for rear seat passengerscontent.

Technology:

The LS 600hL is a technology showcase for Lexus, from its performance hybrid allwheel-drive system to its new Intelligent Park Assist (IPA) system.

switches to operate a diverse range of functions, including audio, cruise control and brake hold. The Electro Multi-Vision (EMV) screen is an eight-inch, full-colour centre console liquid crystal display boasting a high-quality VGA resolution (800 x 480 pixels) and 32,000 colours. Its touch-screen functionality provides unparalleled ease of use, allowing the user to reach any function or command in a maximum of three steps - a hallmark Lexus design feature. The system also incorporates the Lexus Parking Assist Monitor; In addition, LS 600hL features a voice command system dedicated to minimising driver distraction. The system will activate a wide range of vehicle functions, via a single steering wheel-mounted switch.

providing the ultimate mobile cinema experience. And the rear seats are like Gold Class cinema seats. In short its fantastic!

Safety:

Safety is a key feature in the LS600hl. You’re embraced by a comprehensive package of technologies to provide greater safety, including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control. The braking system combines an Anti – lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake – force Distribution (EBD). Should you encounter challenging road conditions, an advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system offers a greater sense of control. It integrates the braking, throttle and steering controls, for enhanced drivability. The Lexus Pre– Collision safety System (PCS) can help

The technology in LS 600hL also includes the world’s ﬁrst seat cushion airbag, breakthrough light-emitting diode (LED) low-beam headlamps, the Lexus Pre Collision safety System, Active-radar Cruise Control, Adaptive Variable Suspension and Lexus’ Vehicle Dynamic integrated Management (VDiM) system. The highlight of LS 600hL is its hybrid system, which seamlessly blends the output from the most powerful petrol and electric motors Lexus has ever offered in a hybrid passenger vehicle. The electric component of the hybrid system is driven by two electric motor/generators. The system creates a clutchless Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) that is able to mimic shifts of an automatic transmission via an eight-step shift control system. LS 600hL hybrid has a variable-voltage electrical system to power its high-output

Entertainment is catered for by a state-ofthe-art Mark Levinson Surround System audio. Over 2000 hours of laboratory, onroad testing and refinement have optimised the Mark Levinson Reference Surround for the specific acoustic characteristics of the LS line of vehicles and LS 600hL’s cabin. The combination of the Mark Levinson Reference Surround System and Electro Multi-Vision (EMV) display screen introduces Lexus LS 600hL owners to a complete, discreet 5.1 home theatre entertainment experience optimised for the playback of music, music videos and DVD films. The system has a total of 19 loudspeakers (12 of which are unique to LS vehicles), each one custom-engineered for the particular acoustic characteristics and location within LS 600hL’s cabin LS 600hL also allows rear passengers to enjoy DVDs whilst the vehicle is in motion,

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electric drive motor and to provide the regenerative braking.

motor, resulting in a quiet, smooth and immediate response.

A newly developed gear-drive transfer and permanent AWD system for the Lexus Hybrid Drive system is a ﬁrst in a Lexus sedan in Australia. A Torsen® mechanical limited-slip centre differential system has been developed exclusively for LS 600hL’s AWD system.

A highly effective regenerative braking system means that energy usually lost during braking is converted to electricity and sent to the battery for storage and later re-use. The petrol engine switches off when at stop, saving on fuel and eliminating emissions. The electric motor remains on for immediate starts.

The new Lexus feature of Intelligent Park Assist (IPA) assists the driver to enter parallel or series parking spaces. The system controls the steering to automatically guide the vehicle into the target parking position identiﬁed by the driver. There is no steering input required from the driver, who merely controls vehicle speed (to a maximum 4km/h) during the manoeuvre by using the brake pedal.

long luxury limousine that has performance and handling in bucket loads yet has amazing fuel economy. We averaged 10.4 L/100km during our test drive.

The mechanical heart of LS 600hL’s hybrid system, the E-CVT, is designed to provide both seamless acceleration and the variable deceleration feeling of a conventional automatic transmission.

Like anything though there are always some faults. However with the Lexus LS600hl I can only think of two. The boot space is tiny for this class and size of vehicle, a direct result of the bank of batteries behind the rear seats. The second is price. While it lacks for nothing and can be considered a bargain compared to any other vehicle with similar power and output and size, it still is $259,900 and that’s a lot of money in anyone’s language.

Nothing is wasted in LS 600hL, hence the use of regenerative braking. It simply means slowing the car by using the electric motor as a generator - converting kinetic energy from the vehicle’s motion

It has a list of ﬁrsts for anyclass of vehicle, and is a showcase for all that Lexus produces. But if you remove the list of features and look at the soul of the vehicle you will be surprised. Lexus builds amazing

The technology is mind blowing but it all works!

Performance. Engine, Transmission & Suspension etc:

Lexus LS 600hL combines two power sources in a hybrid system to combine performance with economy. The propulsion elements of its hybrid drive system are a 290kW 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine and a 165kW electric drive that can produce maximum torque from zero rpm. Together they offer a maximum output of 327kW. LS 600hL’s Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission or E-CVT is designed to cleanly blend petrol and electric power and give highly responsive linear acceleration from start-up to full speed. Hybrid drivers can keep track of which power source is being used and how much energy is being generated and saved in real time through an easy-toread screen in the dashboard. There is a Hybrid System Indicator in addition to the tachometer.

into a reusable form of electricity, which is then stored in the high-voltage battery.

For normal starts, only the electric motor is used, providing a gentle, quiet take-off. When more power is needed, the motor works in combination with the engine. In both cases, LS 600hL enjoys immediate torque optimisation, impossible in a regular petrol engine.

All this adds up to a luxury limousine that goes, stops and handles as a drivers car.

For cruising, power from the petrol engine is split between driving the wheels and a generator that produces electricity for the motor, ensuring maximum fuel efﬁciency at all engine output levels. When extra acceleration is required, the battery provides added power to the electric

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LS 600hL’s multi-link air suspension uses aluminium components in key areas to minimise unsprung weight, and hence optimise suspension performance and road holding.

Summary;

You may have guessed that we are pretty impressed with the Lexus LS600hl. It is not often you can consider a quarter of a million dollar vehicle a bargain but that is what the LS600hl is. It is chock full of features, technology and opulence. Lexus really does build outstanding vehicles. It is worth remembering that this is a 2400kg 5150 mm

vehicles but often they lack personality. The LS600hl has personality. It’s enjoyable to drive. You can drive it hard and it responds and rewards and the next moment you can drive it like the limousine it is.

Relax and Golf at the

HYATT REGENCY COOLUM

Rob Fraser tantalises your senses

Looking for something special for a Winter break away, then look no further than the Hyatt Regency Coolum Hotel, which is situated on Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful Sunshine Coast. Surrounded by 150 hectares of natural bushland, rainforest, a private beach and set at the base of Mount Coolum, this Sunshine Coast resort boasts a multitude of options. SEQA 15

If playing on Australia’s PGA Championship Golf Course is not your pick, then there’s plenty more on offer including a driving range, seven floodlit tennis court centre, world class health and fitness day spa, creative arts centre, beach club, bicycles and for the kids there is Camp Hyatt packed with a variety of activities. From the moment you drive through the front gates, you immediately start to unwind. Genuinely friendly staff that do everything for you meets you when you pull up. Check in and then sit back while being driven to your room in one of the many shuttles that operate around the resort. There are no vehicles inside the resort other than shuttles and you quickly get used to the relaxed pace and start to walk or bike everywhere Accommodation ranges from single King rooms through to the Ambassador villas, with the most popular being the Lake Front Golf Villas, which are overlooking the lake and 18th fairway. These deluxe 85-sq. metre villas offer a fully equipped kitchenette, washer/dryer, marble Ensuite, furnished balcony or patio, work desk and fast Internet access. The bedroom suite includes a king bed, an adjoining room has a king or two single beds, plus a bathroom with dual sink, tub and separate shower. Located at the heart of the resort is the Spa, which includes the reception, retail boutique, salon, gymnasium and other healthy relaxation activities. The Spa provides guests with indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, 25 metre lap pool, aqua-aerobics pool, outdoor unisex spa, lavish men’s and ladies’ lounge with steam, sauna, relaxation lounge and outside access to the pools with most treatment rooms offering private courtyards. A daily sauna and plunge in the ice pool is a perfect way to ease into cocktail hour at the village square. The main village square boasts a number of eateries, with the Pizza’s being a personal favourite, bar, bottle shop, newsagency and a large resort style pool. It acts as a central hub for most activities and a meeting place. Often there is live entertainment during school holidays, which adds to the friendly and relaxed atmosphere. If you fancy more restaurants or a spot of shopping then Coolum is 5 minutes drive north and Noosa is only a 20-minute shuttle bus trip away. Other local attractions include Eumundi markets, Australia Zoo, the hinterland towns of Montville and Maleny and for the energetic there is always Mt Coolum to climb. Perhaps the key attraction at Hyatt Coolum is the Robert Trent Jones Jr designed 18-hole championship course. Home to the Australian PGA Championship, the 72 par, 6263 metre course offers contrasting landscapes, from coastal holes adjoining the Pacific Ocean to manicured fairways that weave their way through native bushland.

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Master architect Robert Trent Jones Jr first visited Hyatt Coolum in 1988 when he crafted the original 18-hole championship course. His return to the Hyatt Coolum at the 2005 Australian PGA Championships was a land mark event in the subsequent redesign. The new layout, sited around a mature rainforest and designed to conserve water resources, now includes two par three, two par four and two par five holes that blend with the existing hole 2, 3 and 9 to become a new “front nine”. The back nine (holes 10-18) has also been refreshed during the redevelopment. Mr. Trent-Jones Jr described his vision for the new course as a place where the natural beauty of the landscape collided with the natural beauty of a great game. A key feature in RTJ II courses is their “playability”. The company’s design philosophy calls for a course that caters to all levels of play, from the average golfer to the world’s best players. For example a low handicapper can choose to take an aggressive line of play in order to secure an eagle or birdie but their chance of making the shot will be reduced through the strategic placement of bunkers and natural hazards. As a part time golfer, I can attest to the challenging nature of the new layout. The problem lies in not making a shot but in actually making that difficult shot. Then full of self confidence and bravado, you set about challenging the natural flow of the course only to donate many balls to the rough and lakes that flow through the course. “I might take the driver out of their hand and put the nine iron there instead,” Mr. Trent JonesJr said. “There are 14 clubs in the bag and the driver is only one of them. The objective of the game still remains the same.” For readers of SEQA magazine the Hyatt Regency Coolum has come up with a Winter Golf Package from $340* per night including: • Accommodation for 2 adults in a King Room • Daily continental breakfast • Unlimited golf green fees per night of stay with motorized cart • Bucket of range balls per night *Based on two adults in a King Room. Minimum two-night stay. Valid until 31 August 2009. Subject to availability. The Hyatt Regency Coolum is about a one and a half hour drive north of Brisbane. The Sunshine Coast airport is about ten minutes away and is serviced by Virgin Blue, Jet Star and Tiger airlines with a shuttle bus to the resort. For either a short break or a longer holiday, Hyatt Regency Coolum has everything you need to completely unwind. I have been going there for holidays for almost 15 years with my family and still look forward to each return visit.

SEQA 17

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18 SEQA

Trakka moves to a bigger playground with the Trakkaway 850 Rob Fraser Reviews

SEQA 19

What are we Testing?

We had the opportunity to take Trakka’s brand new Trakkaway 850 ‘C’ class motorhome for a brief drive. This 8.5m long motorhome is based on the Fiat Ducato with ALKO chassis. The Fiat Ducato has a 3.0L Multijet Turbo Diesel motor with a 6-speed Automatic. Launched recently with a drive away price in NSW of $202,225 it is easy to see why it has been an immediate success with the build quality and high level of standard inclusions.

What’s its Purpose?

The Trakkaway 850 is a stylish sleek motorhome, ideal for a couple that travels extensively with room for the grandkids occasionally.

What’s it Like?

The 850 isn’t a ﬁrst try in motorhomes … a ﬁrst in this size. Trakka has always

produced a quality product and this motorhome is no exception. They have concentrated on smaller campervans to date but their customer demand led them to this larger model. For a first up try they have done a damn good job of it. The interior layout flows and provides a surprising amount of open space in the living section. The kitchen, which is immediately in front of you as you walk in, is small but well designed. The bedroom has an open feel with an island bed and reasonable size separate shower and toilet. Interior fit and finish is first class while the smooth sleek external lines and colouring has a very ‘European” feel to it. The choice of Fiat Ducato adds to the overall feel. The 3.0L diesel motor is powerful enough, smooth and relatively

economical. It’s also very easy to drive with the 6-speed automatic.

Drive Notes OUTSIDE: The immediate impression you get from the Trakkaway 850 is one of smooth, sleek style. It looks good! They have picked an excellent colour combination that compliments the overall feel. The Trakkaway 850 is 8.5m in length, 2.39m wide and 3.0m high yet it looks smaller from the outside. The exterior is cab over look with a one-piece ﬁbreglass roof and Hi-tech vacuum moulded Fibreglass Styrofoam composite panel construction with HiGloss moulded ﬁnish and metallic paint. The composite construction provides superior strength and insulation to more traditional methods. This is all set on a hot dipped galvanised ALKO chassis with dual rear axles. External appointments include 2 x powered skylights with roller screen & blind, 9 x double glazed windows, outside shower (hot/cold), outdoor work bench, Stainless steel gas BBQ, 4m long Premium F45 Titanium awning, external storage lockers & rear boot which is huge and accessible from both inside and out and a 125 watt solar panel. INSIDE: The one step easy entry shows how stable the motorhome is. It doesn’t move when you step up. Once inside the look and feel from the outside carries through. Driver & passenger both have comfortable seats with armrests and they swivel to be a part of the lounge area. They also provide easy walk through access. The Fiat driving position is great really, with

20 SEQA

Sleep around in the TRAKKA FIAT FAMILY www.trakka.com

Tried, Tested and Trusted around Australia since 1973 Invest in your lifestyle. Invest in a TRAKKA Easy to drive, Easy on fuel, Easy living

Phone: 1800 TRAKKA (1800 872 552)

Headquarters: 9 Beaumont Rd, Mt Kuring-gai 2080 Email: trakka@trakka.com.au

all the necessary instruments etc falling easily to hand. The GPS/reversing is an option which doubles as a screen for the reversing camera and can be used to assist with hooking up trailers etc.

Last but not least the bedroom has a permanent island bed with the option of single beds, bedside tables, wardrobes, privacy room divider and overhead roof locker storage.

A dual-stage driver’s airbag comes as standard, with 120-litre passenger airbag, side bags and drop-down window bags for 360 degree protection all available as optional extras. The Ducato also leads its class in preventative safety. Twin circuit all round disc brakes come with the latest generation ABS system with EBD which splits the braking action between the four wheels to prevent them from locking and ensures control of the vehicle in all conditions.

Power and Water

The Trakkaway 850 comes with 130L fresh water, locking water ﬁller, mains pressure water connection, 14L stainless steel hot water tank (gas & 240v), 130L grey water tank and 3 x 4kg gas bottles

The front windscreen has an easy to use privacy curtain. Other features include air– conditioning, Radio/CD, Remote central locking, Power mirrors & windows, cruise control, multifunction steering wheel and trip computer. Above the drivers section there is a permanent cab over double bed, perfect for the kids to visit. The separate lounge area is away from kitchen and has two, very comfortable leather covered sofas, which face onto a multi-position table that can be swivelled and moved to suit. There is also a 48cm (19”) HDD TV/DVD. The fully equipped kitchen is small but functional, including Stainless steel 3burner stove, range hood, Stainless steel sink/drainer, Stainless steel gas oven, 17L Microwave oven, 175L 3-way fridge & freezer, drinking water ﬁltration system, overhead roof locker storage, slide-out pantry and built in rubbish container. They also make the most of the available bench space with a nifty fold out extension. One thing that we would change is the shelf on the bench; it looks good but takes up space without providing functional use. The centrally positioned bathroom allows convenient access from living and bedroom areas. Features include separate shower and toilet areas, 2 x Screened Turbo vents (Shower & Toilet), adjustable showerhead & mixer tap, shower screen, 17L chemical toilet cassette, Vanity basin, shaving cabinet & mirror, teak shower grate & towel rail.

22 SEQA

Large windows and skylights give the bedroom an open feel.

Power comes from 2 x 100amp/h maintenance-free deep cycle batteries, 15amp Automatic charger, 125-watt solar charging system. Keeping a watchful eye on all this is an electronic control system that monitors battery condition & water levels.

Throughout there is quality carpet with vinyl in the kitchen and plenty of carefully planned storage areas. The whole vehicle has air conditioning and ducted diesel heating. Overall the interior works and has a spacious feel to it.

In addition there is a Clock, outside temperature check, Halogen & ﬂuorescent lights throughout, 2 x Exterior lighting, dimming light function, TV ampliﬁed antenna, rear speakers, electrical locker & built-in camping ground lead.

Safety

Engine, Transmission, Suspension etc

Safety has always been at the heart of Fiat design, protecting passengers and payload alike. The new Ducato builds on this with an extremely strong structure including programmable crumple zones and a rigid passenger compartment - that has been designed to absorb impacts with maximum effectiveness.

The Fiat Ducato has a 3.0L 4 cylinder Multijet direct injection, common rail, electronically controlled turbocharged diesel engine that produces 115.5kw/ 3500rpm and 400Nm/1700 - 2500rpm. This mates beautifully to the 6- speed automatic with adaptive tiptronic

control. Its one of the better light truck motors, sits in its rev range and just cruises along.

potholes. This however is not intrusive, just noticeable.

The vehicle sits on a long wheelbase with a hot dipped galvanised chassis. Dual rear wheels and the independent suspension combine with a relatively low centre of gravity to give a supple ride for comfort with more than adequate handling.

Summary

Overall for a ﬁrst time attempt at a larger motorhome Trakka have really nailed the Trakkaway 850. It is exceptionally well thought out and shows years of experience and many hours of design in the layout.

It will accommodate 4 in comfort, drives and handles pretty good for a light truck, is easy to live with and has a quality feel. One of the key things about Trakka is that they pride themselves on providing a long list of standard features.

The long wheelbase also gives the Trakkaway a reasonable degree of stability.

Trakka’s smaller campervan experience shows in providing a spacious segmented four-area layout that extracts maximum use from available space.

The Trakkaway 850 is absolutely worth a look if you’re in the market for a “C” class motorhome and at an advised $202,225 drive away it represents pretty good value.

Like all the Fiat light truck range it needs more suspension travel and it suffers from bump stop banging on relatively minor road irregularities and

Nothing is perfect though and some of the things we didn’t like so much included the smallish kitchen. Whilst it works well

it is small. Also we would like to see a full-length mirror in the bedroom (well not me but strong feedback from those who appreciate such things)

For more information on the Trakka Trakkaway 850 check out their website at www.trakka. com.au Article Copyright © all rights reserved – SEQA Publications - Auto Alliance Group Pty. Ltd. 2009 Article courtesy of www.myrv. com.au. For the full written/ video review and star ratings visit the website.

SEQA 23

The Exciting Gateway between the Kimberley and the Indian Ocean

BE TOTALLY SWEPT AWAY TO AN EYE ASPIRING, BREATHTAKING GATEWAY JOURNEY FROM THE SERENE INDIAN OCEAN TO THE MAGICAL KIMBERLEY 24 SEQA

Rob Fraser: From my experience, it conjures up breathtaking images of exotic beaches, pearling luggers, adventure and cocktails at sunset. It is hard to imagine just what Broome is like; you have to experience it. But I will try to paint a picture in your senses that does Broome justice!

Broome is one of the most isolated places in Australia that still has a semblance of civilisation and is a gateway to some beautiful and surprising places. Broome’s culture has been shaped by its rich and diverse history. It is situated on the traditional lands of the Jukun and Yawuru people. The ﬁrst European to visit Broome was William Dampier in 1688 and again in 1699. In fact he names many of the coastal features of the area. In 1879, Charles Harper suggested that a port could serve the pearling industry closer to the pearling grounds and that Roebuck Bay would be suitable. In 1883, John Forrest selected the site for the town, and it was named after the Governor of Western Australia, Sir Frederick Broome. In 1889, a telegraph undersea cable was laid from

Broome to Singapore, giving Cable Beach its name as the landfall site. The town has an interesting history based around the exploits of the men and women who developed the pearling industry, starting with the harvesting of oysters for mother of pearl in the 1880s to the current major cultured pearl farming enterprises. The riches from the pearl beds did not come cheap, and the town’s Japanese cemetery is the resting place of more than 900 Japanese divers who lost their lives working in the industry. Many were lost at sea and the exact number of deaths is unknown. The Japanese were the main body of the many ethnic groups who ﬂocked to Broome to work on the luggers or the shore based activities supporting the harvesting of oysters from the waters around Broome. They were brave and heroic specialist

SEQA 25

divers and, despite political pressure to expel them in support of the White Australia Policy, became an indispensable part of the industry until World War II. Japanese aircraft attacked Broome on 3 March 1942. The air raid killed at least 88 people. Following the end of the war in 1945, the town and its pearling industry gradually recovered from the disruptions of wartime. The West Australian mining boom of the 1960s, as well as the growth of the tourism industry, also helped Broome develop and diversify. B r o o m e is one of the fastest growing cities in Australia. While there be sure to visit the Chinatown section, b r o w s e through the many pearl shops or take in a movie in the open air theatre. At Gantheaume Point and 30 metres out to sea are dinosaur footprints believed to be from the Cretaceous Age approximately 130 million years ago. The tracks can be seen only during very low tide. The world famous Cable Beach is situated 7 km from town along a good bitumen road. The beach itself is 22.5 km long with beautiful white sand washed clean daily by tides that can reach over nine metres. The water is crystal clear turquoise, and the gentle swells hardly manage to topple over as they roll up onto the almost perfectly flat beach. Caution, however is required when swimming from November through March as stingers are present during those months. Fourwheel drive vehicles may be driven onto the beach from the car park. This allows people to explore the beach at low tide to a much greater extent than would be possible on foot. But remember to watch the incoming tide. It comes with such a rush and is so high that many vehicles are lost each year. I know I speak from experience as I nearly lost a fully loaded Pajero by not being careful enough! Sunset camel rides operate daily along Cable Beach, which is also home to one of Australia’s most famous nudist beaches. The clothes optional area is to the north of the beach access road from the car park and continues to the mouth of Willie Creek, 17 km away.

26 SEQA

10 really cool things to do at Broome! 1. Sunset Cocktails overlooking Cable Beach 2. Witness the ‘Stairway to the Moon’ 3. Visit Willie Creek Pearl Farm 4. Stand in the Footprints of Dinosaurs 5. Take a sunset Camel ride on Cable Beach 6. Visit the Bird Sanctuary on Roebuck Bay 7. Visit the Broome ‘Courthouse Markets” 8. Take an organised tour to Cape Leveque 9. Go to the Japanese Cemetery 10. Swim ‘Au Naturale” at Nth Cable Beach And one more as we always like to give you more 11. See a movie at the open-air theatre!! Accommodation-wise, there are plenty of plush hotels, up-market resorts and pure indulgent eco retreats to choose from. For the budget traveller, there’s a good selection of hostels. Caravanners etc are extremely well catered for with a number of well-equipped caravan parks. Bush camping is not permitted. Remember to book well in advance if you want to travel in the peak periods between May to October and plan to stay a while. The last time the author went to Broome he stayed with his family for 6 weeks and then explored the surrounding regions. Broome is a perfect start or end to the adventure of exploring the famous Kimberley region and the Gibb River Road

For more information on Broome contact the Broome Visitor Centre on +61 8 9192 2222 or visit their website. www.broomevisitorcentre.com.au

GETABOUT ADVENTURES ��

��

�� SEQA 27

BOATING CLUBS AND SHARES AFFORDABLE LUXURY CRUISING

16 28 SEQA SEAQ

ete Wilson looks at alternatives to spending thousands, possible millions of dollars on a Cruising Yacht.

S Imagine cruising up Pittwater, or cruising through Sydney Harbour, under the Harbour Bridge then around to Darling Harbour in your luxury Sports Cruiser, pulling up at the wharf so you can go to one of the many waterside restaurants. Up until now this has been the exclusive preserve of the wealthy. But there are alternatives and as we found out heaps of them.

walk off and enjoy your worry free boating. Sounds hedonistic and it is, but as with everything there is a cost.

For those of you who have not heard of the concept of shared ownership of luxury boats you are in for a treat. There are a number of ways to share the cost of owning or using a luxury cruiser. Some involve buying shares, some involve joint ownership and some involve membership to a club. All have their advantages and disadvantages.

Some of the things that you should look for when researching options are:

The central theme to all of the alternatives is why spend more to own a boat, when you only use it part of the time. By sharing the cost of ownership individuals, families and corporates can now enjoy luxury boating all year round. Usually all the maintenance and repairs are handled for you and you simply walk on and

The cost comes in either an upfront annual fee, a fairly heavy dollar share purchase and shared costs, or you sign up for a ﬁxed term membership. Note however that all these are way cheaper than buying your own luxury cruiser.

• • • • • • • •

They offer comprehensive training They offer ﬂexibility in ownership options They have a walk on walk off use policy Other than fuel what other costs for use are there Easy to book the cruiser when you want and there is ﬂexibility in wet weather etc The boats are fully insured and given recent changes, registered properly They are capable of maintaining the boats properly The boat is where you want to use it or they have reciprocal arrangements with other locations.

SEQA 29

Ever dreamed of owning your own luxury boat… …now you can! Once only Share Price

$24,890*

Once only Share Price

$9,890*

$17,890*

Mustang 3500 Sportscruiser

Mustang 2800 Sportscruiser

Bavaria 37 Yacht

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $32,890 (12 shares)

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $12,890 (14 shares)

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $24,890 (14 shares)

Once only Share Price

$49,890*

Once only Share Price

$14,890*

$64,890*

Mustang 4200 Sportscruiser IPS

Mustang 3200 Sportscruiser

Fountaine Pajot Lavezzi 40

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $59,890 (14 shares)

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $19,890 (14 shares)

� Finishes in July 2013 � NEW JULY 2009

Once only Share Price

$24,890*

Once only Share Price

$24,890*

$29,890*

Mustang 3800 Sportscruiser

Mustang 3800 Sports Top

SeaQuest 300 Sportsbridge

� Finishes in December 2011 � Original Price $39,890 (14 shares)

(320 HP Mercruiser diesel) � Finishes in July 2013 � NEW JULY 2009

Benefits of Shared Boat Ownership � Share the costs of purchase, typically enabling access to better quality boats � Share the costs of maintenance which normally can be a significant financial impediment to owning a boat � Enjoy the experience of stress-free boating without the hassles of boat management (general maintenance, cleaning, paperwork)

*Plus Annual Management Fees

� Maintain actual equity in a boat � Have access to world-class training in the areas of boat handling, navigation and (a recognised tradeable asset for local area laws. the life of the boat) � Purchase of an equity share starts from a � Have a guaranteed number of days annually low one off payment of $10,890 for to access the boat via a sophisticated on-line (as an example) a Mustang 2800. Plus an booking system (minimum of 21 days) insurance bond payment and management � Have access to additional standby days if fees. Prices vary for the various models in the ﬂeets and the location options. required (approximately 70) Sydney Harbour Shop P6, Birkenhead Marina Drummoyne NSW sales@cruisingclub.com.au

Pittwater Newport Anchorage Newport NSW sales@cruisingclub.com.au

Whitsundays Abel Point Marina Airlie Beach Qld sandra@cruisingclub.com.au

1800 11 BOAT � 1800 11 2628 � www.cruisingclub.com.au

Discover why The Cruising Club is the ultimate lifestyle choice

• Do they offer fully staffed options with a skipper for the day • Does the contract have conﬂict resolution built into it • Do you have any further liability in unfortunate circumstances

saying “what recession” or those that value family social activities with a difference the alternatives to outright ownership may be the ideal solution to living those dreams with the promise of 100% pure enjoyment. Isnt that what life is all about!

Somewhat surprisingly (to me at least) many of the participants are families that are looking for something different and value for money. Corporate and business are also well represented, using the time for entertaining etc. There are even a growing number of current boat owners that just don’t use their prized possessions enough and have decided that this is the way to go. The current tougher economic times or a busy lifestyle might mean that your boating dreams remain just that. However for a select few that are

SEQA 31

DISCOVERING A LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE IN THE HUNTER Rob Fraser reveals what he found

32 SEQA

Whilst working in the Hunter recently I was lucky enough to be invited to an 8course evening degustation experience at the ROCK Restaurant at Poole’s Rock Wines in the Hunter Valley. For those uninitiated to the delights of this eatery, which opened in 2006, it is the outlet for the creative flair of chef Andrew Clarke and his business partner David Clarke. Andrew’s name may seem familiar, as he has previously been associated with a number of Sydney’s finest restaurants including Claude’s, Absolute Ambrosia and The Bathers’ Pavilion. “Winter is my favourite time of year in the Valley – the air is crisp and laden with the scent of open fires,” says chef Andrew Clarke. “It’s the perfect time to settle into our warm restaurant with a bottle of shiraz and a selection of tastes from our winter menu.” C l a r k e ’ s c o n s t a n t l y evolving menu reflects his attitude towards winter, inviting guests to linger over a dinner featuring some of Australia’s finest produce. His menu is unique, with either an a la carte or degustation experience available, and all dishes offered in tasting, entrée or main portions. His inventive cuisine is considered contemporary Australian with French influences. The ROCK dining experience is enhanced by Clarke’s wine list, which covers a wide range of local drops, such as the 2005 Poole’s Rock Shiraz, right through to some of Burgundy’s finest, such as 1999 François Lamarche GrandsEchezeaux Grand Cru Burgundy, France. It is difficult to pick some favourites amongst the dishes enjoyed that evening. The overall experience was near perfect with a euphoric sensory blend

of aroma and flavour. I walked away that evening feeling absolutely satiated. Standouts for me were Scallop tortellini with swiss brown mushrooms, crisp pancetta and Riesling cream, complimented by a glass of 2008 Cockfighters Ghost Riesling. The Grilled Wagyu rump with stuffed confit tomato, straw potatoes and light foie gras sauce, complimented by a glass of 2005 Pooles Rock Shiraz, was truly exquisite. To finish chocolate tart with crème de menthe whipped cream was served, accompanied by some NV Firestick Liqueur Verdelho, a stand out wine in its own right. My head kept telling me ‘no’ but my senses kept telling me ‘yes’. Thankfully, I indulged! Clarke has an enticing range of new dishes for the cooler months and to be honest I am looking forward to returning to try them. ROCK Restaurant has enjoyed great success since opening in September 2006, being awarded two Chef’s Hats and being named Best Regional Restaurant in the 2009 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, amongst other notable awards. ROCK Restaurant is located at Poole’s Rock Winery on Debeyers Road, Pokolbin. It is open three times a week on T h u r s d a y, Friday and Saturday nights for dinner from 6 . 3 0 p m . Firestick Café is the daytime v e r s i o n of ROCK Restaurant and is open daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Do yourself a favour and visit the restaurant or café if you are in the Hunter Valley this winter, you will have an absolutely delightful dining experience.

SEQA 33

Motoring With Rob Fraser

‘Fully Sick’* Cars for Gen ‘Y’ Cool Cars 4 your Kids S

omething is happening out there in car land.

The manufacturers are building environmentally friendly, ‘neat’ cars for Generation ‘Y’. These are cars that are cool to look at, easily individualised, use next to no fuel, have low emissions and high recyclability, are mostly diesel and are affordable. They are full of all the important gadgets they want, as well as a heap of safety features they need. While new car buyers want vehicles that reﬂect positively on them as owners and fulﬁll wide-ranging applications, younger buyers from Generation Y want cars that allow them the freedom to express their individuality. In the minds of Generation Y, cars need to perform, only lightly touch the environment, look good, deliver on safety, be reliable and be well appointed. “But everyone must know that this is my car”. The future is here and we take a look at 6 of the more interesting offerings that 34 SEQA

are on sale now or coming later this year. From the tiny Suzuki Alto through to the sixth generation VW Golf, they are being designed for buyers that appreciate the qualities of environmentally friendly, performance, safety and individuality. The Generation ‘Y’ have strong opinions on what they want and look for. Their car is an extension of them and reﬂects their values. This is an extremely important market niche and its great to see some neat ﬂair coming through in the style. There are enough bland cars around already. *Apparently that means they’re really good!

✥ Suzuki Alto ✥ Kia SOUL3 CRDi ✥ MINI Cooper D ✥ Hyundai i30 CRDi ✥ Holden Cruze CD ✥ VW Golf 118kw TSi Comfortline

Kia SOUL3 CRDi

Suzuki

Alto

Make no mistake about it; Kia’s new SOUL is seriously cool and redefines the concept of freedom and individuality, creating a new category for the young and young-at-heart. With a $20,990 RRP entry price it fits the affordable Neat niche. Whilst customisation is the key with 30 customisable accessories it is available in three different grades - SOUL, SOUL2 and SOUL3. The pick for us is the SOUL 3 automatic diesel with a RRP OF Suzuki has announced that the Australian version of Alto $30,890. will go on This top sale in the third quarter of 2009. Pricing and final specification will of be the range released closer to launch. model includes The cabin layout apportions most of the space to the front seats heapshandy of but still provides ample space for four adults with numerous passive storage spaces for small items located throughout the cabin. and active The entry level Alto will come standard with air conditioning, CD safety features stereo system with MP3 auxiliary input, remote central locking, ABS along brakes and six airbags. The top specification Alto adds alloy wheels, with an fog lamps, a tachometer and ESP stability control The new Alto has an overall length of 3,500mm, width of 1,600mm, height of 1,470mm and a wheelbase of 2,360mm. This combined with a turning circle of 4.5m makes it easy to manoeuvre and park in tightspaces. A three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine producing peak power output of 50kW with a maximum torque of 90Nm powers the new Alto. The Euro IV-compliant engine delivers fuel consumption of just 4.5L/100km and produces only 103g/km of CO2 emissions. The Green Vehicle Guide rating is yet to be confirmed. Standard transmission is five-speed manual, however a four-speed automatic transmission will be available as an option. Safety is covered with ESP, crushable structure with energy-dispersing frame, SRS dual front airbags, SRS dual front-seat side airbags and SRS dual curtain airbags.

Kia

Soul3 Crdi

SEQA 35

Kia SOUL3 CRDi

Mini

Cooper D

Make no mistake about it; Kia’s new SOUL is seriously cool and redefines the concept of freedom and individuality, creating a new category for the young and young-at-heart. With a $20,990 RRP entry price it fits the affordable Neat niche. Whilst customisation is the key with 30 customisable accessories it is available in three different grades - SOUL, SOUL2 and SOUL3. The pick for us is the SOUL 3 automatic diesel with a RRP OF $30,890. The first diesel powered MINI has now arrived in showrooms. Available Thisthetop from $33,750 it is at the pricey end of vehicles for Gen ‘Y’ but pickof the range of the bunch for us is the Mini Cooper D, 6 SP manual hardtop hatch. model Mini Cooper D provides buyers with an extremely fuel-efficient car, with very low emissions, while retaining its go-kart like handlingincludes for which heaps of it is famous. passive It uses just 3.9L/100km which means an average range of over and 1,000km active per tank. Thanks to MINIMALISM features, which include the innovative safety Auto Start Stop function and Brake Energy Regeneration, thefeatures Cooper D will emit just 104 grams of CO2 per kilometre. along with an The Cooper D also has a 3 1⁄2 star Green Vehicle Guide rating. The 80 kW diesel engine delivers a punchy 240 Nm of torque between 1,750 rpm and 2,000 rpm, 70 percent of which is available at just 1,250 rpm. That means plenty of fun! Safety is the key with a 5 star Euro NCAP Crash Test with regard to adult occupant safety. All MINI hatchbacks have a whole host of active and passive safety features as standard including; six airbags with curtain airbags, ABS, CBC, EBD, BA, ASC T and DSC. The MINI Cooper D customer will be able to customise their very own vehicle with a mind-blowing range of interior and exterior trim and colour options. Some of the funkier features are the iconic central speedo, very cool stereo system with AUX input, MP3 compatibility and an even larger panoramic sunroof with a double tilt function. Check out the optional satellite navigation and TV receiver, which displays on the central speedo screen when the MINI is parked

Hyundai Hyundai’s i30 is a sleek, European styled hatchback with a starting price of under $20,000. It offers a choice of petrol or diesel engines along with a hatch or wagon body style. The pick for us is the i30 SLX CRD 5 SP manual for about $27,000. Hyundai i30’s are specifically calibrated to appeal to the sportier mindset of today’s Australian hatchback drivers. The CRDi’s suspension and steering dynamics is paired with a compact, fivespeed manual transmission with sporty, short gear lever throws and evenly spread gear ratios for a genuinely pleasing drive. To complement the sportier handling advanced safety equipment is standard including side and curtain airbags, ESP with TCS, ABS, ‘antiwhiplash’ headrests and seat belt reminders. The interior fit and finish is first class with flexible seating, blue instrument illumination, cool air-conditioned glovebox, full iPod®/ USB-compatible audio as standard with steering wheel audio controls. Hyundai’s CRDi is an outstandingly frugal yet torquey 1.6 litre, twin-cam, 16-valve four-cylinder engine. Maximum torque is a hefty 255Nm between 1900 and 2750 rpm, while power peaks at 85kW at 4000rpm The i30 CRDi is ADR81/01-rated at a miserly 4.7 litres/100km, just 0.1 litre/100km more than the hybrid-electric Honda Civic. The official CO2 emission figure is only 125 g/km when fitted with a manual transmission and has a Green Vehicle Guide rating of 3 1⁄2 stars. The i30 SLX CRD Hatch is perfectly suited to the generation ‘Y’ niche. Sleek looking, environmentally friendly and exceptionally frugal; it offers a spirited driving experience with loads of safety. Combined with Hyundai’s 5 year unlimited kilometre warranty, it is difficult to pass up.

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i30 CRDi

Kia SOUL3 CRDi

HOLDEN

Cruze CD

Make no mistake about it; Kia’s new SOUL is seriously cool and redefines the concept of freedom and individuality, creating a new category for the young and young-at-heart. With a $20,990 RRP entry price it fits the affordable Neat niche. Whilst customisation is the key with 30 customisable accessories it is available in three different grades - SOUL, SOUL2 and SOUL3. The pick for us is the SOUL 3 automatic diesel with a RRP The all-new Holden Cruze went on sale in June and combines five-star ANCAP safety with exceptional ride and handling, fuel efficiency, stylish design and a starting price of just $20,990 plus orc. The stylists have come up with a design that is sleek and smooth with an overall length of 4597mm and a wheelbase of 2695mm, which gives this car a long and lean look. Like a lot of cars in this segment it is packed full of safety features including ESC, ABS, EBD, TC, BA, along with front airbags for driver and front passenger, front side impact airbags, side curtain airbags. It also automatic headlamps, six speaker audio system with MP3 compatible in dash CD, radio, plug and play aux input, cruise control, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, trip computer, power windows etc. The CDX adds more features again. Cruze has 6 way manually adjustable heated front seats, heaps of storage pockets, integrated bottle holders in all door pockets, large seatback pockets, 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks with armrest and dual cupholders. The boot provides 400-litre volume of storage and a clever shopping hook is positioned on the left side. The 2.0L diesel engine produces 110kW of power and 320Nm of torque and 90 per cent of the torque is available from 1750 to 3500 rpm. Economy is great at only 5.7 litres per 100 kms for the 2.0 litre diesel manual. The Green Vehicle Guide rating has yet to be confirmed at the time of writing. Our pick is the Cruze CD 2.0 litre diesel manual at $23,990. It has great performance, good looks, plenty of interior space and Holden’s 3 yr 100,000km warranty. The Cruze is ideally suited to the Generation ‘Y’ market.

VW GOLF

118kw TSi Comfortline

Volkswagen’s iconic Golf is now in its sixth generation. Since it was first released in 1974 it has consistently led the field in the quality hatchback class. In fact many say it defined the class originally. Stylish rather than Neat it appeals to a wide spectrum of buyers with prices ranging from about $26,000. For us the pick is the 118kw TSi 6SP manual for about $31,000. For that price you get a car that has been developed for over 35 years, with a 5 star ANCAP safety rating, a quality comfortable interior and a fine balance between handling and performance. The new Golf’s sophisticated design includes active safety features such as ABS, ASR, TC & ESP, EDL, EBD, HAS. It also has 7 SRS airbags, with the 7th one protecting the driver’s knee as well as dual front, side and curtain airbags. The Golf has a long list of standard features as well full range of optional extras that allow you to individualise your car. Have a close look at the new Adaptive chassis control and the really cool selfpark facility. Only three cars in Australia have it so far. We have chosen the 1.4 TSI turbo and supercharged 118 kW with 6sp manual transmission as it consumes just 6.2 l/100km of premium-unleaded petrol. The official CO2 emission figure is only 150 g/km and has a Green Vehicle Guide rating of 5 stars VW Golf sets the benchmark for stylish hatches. Clever design, sophisticated motors, some very cool options, 5 star EuroNCAP safety and Green Vehicle Guide ratings, 3 year/100,000km warranty and competitive pricing make this car a must on your shopping list.

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BEST BRANDS BEST SERVICE BEST PRICE

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DIGITAL TV Between 2010 and 2013 analog freeto-air TV signals are being switched off and replaced with digital-only signals. How will this affect you? What do you need to do? Is it ok if I have Foxtel? Jeff Daniels explains so we can get a clearer picture! I guess the most commonly asked question is ‘What is Digital TV?’ The word ‘digital’ simply refers to the way in which TV signals are broadcast (sent) and received by TVs in homes around Australia. Currently, these analog and digital broadcasts are transmitted side by side. This process is costly, inefﬁcient and uses most of what is known as the ‘broadcast spectrum’ – or the space that’s available for terrestrial television broadcasts. Turning off analog signals will free up a considerable amount of the spectrum so that it can be used for additional services. Another beneﬁt of digital TV is that most people will enjoy a much better picture and sound quality. You will also be able to receive more free to air TV channels and see pictures in widescreen. The ABC has already introduced a digital-only channel – ABC2. The commercial networks (7, 9 and 10) also have their own digital channels. Digital technology is being adopted all over the world, and it’s important that Australia keeps pace with global technological advances. One effect

of digital technology replacing analog, is that the equipment being produced globally (such as television production equipment, digital recording and playback equipment, and televisions) is now only compatible with digital formats. Before long, analog TV equipment will no longer be available in Australia. If you are a true dinky die technophobe and decide to ignore the fact that digital TV is coming then you will lose access to free-to-air TV when the switchover is complete in your area. That’s why it’s important that you plan ahead. The only other way you can avoid change is if you have or can get pay TV which already broadcasts a digital signal. I.e. Foxtel. To receive free to air TV after the digital switchover in your area, you’ll need a television that is capable of receiving digital signals. There are two ways this can happen. Firstly you can convert your existing analog TV using a digital set top box. Secondly you can upgrade to a television with an in-built digital tuner Most importantly, you do not have to buy a new TV if you don’t want to, because virtually all current analog TVs will be able to receive digital TV by adding a digital set top box. Set top boxes range from basic Standard Deﬁnition (SD) models to High Deﬁnition (HD) models and may include electronic program guides and interactive features such as pausing and replaying live TV. If your undecided as to which set top box to buy, HD gives a sharper picture.

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Most households have two or three TVs, all of which will need to be converted if you wish to continue to use them to receive free-to-air TV once the switchover has occurred in your area. If you wish to record TV and you have a VCR recorder or DVD recorder, these will also need to be connected to a set top box. Remember, the sooner you convert the sooner you will be able to enjoy the beneﬁts of digital TV. SEQA would like to acknowledge the website www.digitalready.gov.au for some of the content in the above article. For more information I suggest you visit the site so you can gain a better understanding about the switch to digital TV and how it will affect you.

BRAVIA WE5 LCD TV from Sony designed for the eco-conscious Sony Australia has released the new BRAVIA WE5 LCD TV, designed with unique energy saving features for the eco-conscious consumer. Awarded an energy star rating of five stars (46”), the key features of the new BRAVIA WE5 that help conserve energy include: the world’s first microtubular Hot Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (HCFL) backlight; a unique Presence Sensor; and an Energy Saving Switch. “The WE5 consumes less power than two typical incandescent light bulbs, which translates into both significant cost and also energy savings for those consumers who are concerned about the environment,” said Jan Ergen, Product Manager for Visual Display at Sony Australia. “With the digital switchover looming, the WE5 provides a more environmentally aware choice for consumers that want to upgrade to a high definition TV.” The WE5 also features a range of picture quality enhancements including Motionflow 100Hz technology, BRAVIA Engine 3 and Full High Definition resolution, to create the outstanding picture quality that the BRAVIA range is known for. Sony BRAVIA WE5 LCD TV is priced from $3,199 and available in shops now. For more information visit www.sony.com.au.

from Sony is a window into the future of television technology. Measuring just an astonishingly thin 3mm at its thinnest, with an 11-inch screen, Sony introduces the world’s ﬁrst OLED TV in Australia. “The XEL-1 is a concept TV that you can actually own. With innovation constantly pushing the boundaries and changing our outlook, the XEL-1 gives us an opportunity to experience tomorrow’s technology, today,” said Jan Ergen, Product Manager for Visual Display at Sony Australia. “Incorporating the latest high performing features and ground-breaking design, the XEL-1 stands out with its unique style and exceptional picture quality.” The XEL-1 consists of an organic layer of material with two extremely thin glass panels on either side. This unique OLED panel delivers high contrast, high peak brightness, amazing colour reproduction and rapid response time. OLED does not require a separate light source so it can be powered using very low voltage. This means that OLED TVs consume extremely low levels of power compared with other display devices. The power consumption of the XEL-1 is as low as 45W. Sony XEL-1 OLED TV is priced from $6,999 and available in shops now. For more information visit www.sony.com.au.

The OLED TV from Sony: Tomorrow’s TV technology, today

Panasonic broadens the home entertainment horizon with VIERA CAST

With groundbreaking design, world class high performing features and unprecedented picture quality and colour clarity, the new XEL-1 OLED TV

Panasonic Australia unveiled in March a revolution in home entertainment, announcing the addition of VIERA CAST technology to its latest range of Blu-

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ray Players and Recorders and DVD Recorders with Twin HD Tuners. VIERA CAST provides consumers with user-friendly internet-enabled technology to access popular entertainment sites, You TubeTM and Google’s PicasaTM Web Albums simply using their home broadband connection. This innovative function is user-friendly and can be accessed with a single button on the Recorders’ remote control for viewing on any home TV. The user can simply navigate the online menus and play content using the remote. Consumers can use their PC or Mac to upload their clips and albums creating virtual libraries, then simply access them via the new Panasonic models using VIERA CAST and view them on their TV. Seven new Panasonic Blu-ray and DVD models offer this technology, including the DMR-BW850, DMR-BW750, DMR-XW450, DMR-XW350, DMPBD60, DMP-BD80 and DMP-B15. For more information call Panasonic on 132 600 or visit www.panasonic.com.au.

Panasonic debuts One-inch UltraThin, Wireless Full HD Plasma TV Panasonic Australia has showcased its ﬂagship Full HD one-inch ultra-thin, 1080p Wireless Z1 Plasma TV (TH-P54Z1A) – a stunning Plasma panel that combines sophistication and beauty with technical innovation and brilliant performance. The one-inch ultra-thin Z1 features a Neo Full HD Plasma panel and Wireless HDMI HD technology

to deliver the ultimate in sleek, uncluttered connectivity. It offers a brighter picture with deeper blacks and an improved dynamic contrast ratio of 2,000,000+:1, all housed in a stylish, one-inch ultrathin unit. For improved convenience and connectivity, VIERA Image Viewer makes it possible to view AVCHD movie footage directly from an SD memory card, or turn your VIERA TV into a giant digital photo frame and view JPEG images from your camera, via the TV’s SD card slot. The Z1 Series will debut in the new 54-inch screen size, bridging the gap between 50-inch and 58-inch in the Panasonic range. WirelessHDii technology transmits Full HD video signals, audio and control signals wirelessly. It can transmit uncompressed 1080p Full HD content wirelessly with no deterioration in quality. The picture on the screen goes undisturbed even if someone walking past interrupts the Wireless communication path. This is achieved by incorporating beam steering technology. The VIERA Z1 NeoPDP features 1080p resolution; the prestigious THX® Certification; Infinite Black contrast; 600Hz Sub-field Drive for razor-sharp fast-moving Full HD action; and VIERA Link, a technology that allows the user to operate all of their compatible home entertainment components with a single remote. Release is scheduled for September and for more information call Panasonic on 132 600 or visit www.panasonic.com.au.

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