Liquid Life & Leisure March

March | liquidlifeandleisure.com.au

East Coast Marina PAGE 14

AUSTRALIAN MARINE WHOLESALE

Page 24

AFFORDABLE CAMPING MATS

Page 46

SCARBOROUGH MARINA

Page 36

The best way to charge your phones and devices when travelling

march specials

Get in touch today!

P. 1800 787 278 E. sales@caravanRVcamping.com

Liquid Life & Leisure Team Editor Hayley Taylor Director Ben Charity National Sales Manager Dan Charity

Liquid Life & Leisure Headquarters Phone (07) 5580 4988 Address PO BOX 1076, Sanctuary Cove Q 4212 Hope Island, Gold Coast Websites www.liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Email content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Advertising content@liquidlifeandleisure.com.au Deadline for Content: 15th of every month Contributors Yasmin & Leigh - Family Gap Year Dan & Fee - Ozzy Wide Ozzy Pride Kelly Gudgeon - Destination and Travel

LIQUID LIFE & LEISURE

05

Easter Sale 130AH 12V AGM Deep Cycle Battery Combo WAS $799

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$

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73 Litre Portable Fridge/Freezer RRP: $2589

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MARCH 2018

EAST COAST MARINA | AM WHOLESALE | AFFORDABLE CAMPING MATS

POWERKIK 2 The latest chargers for your phones & devices.

NEW AGE 10 Introducing the new Road Owl FLOATFEST 48

FAMILY GAP YEAR 14 Read about the family gap year & their four fave places.

BRAND BOOST 36 The latest Caravan RV Camping Products KELLYS COLUMN 70

A two day event proudly instigated by Goldfields, ghost towns and glorious the members of the Murraylands Regional gigantic installations.

Tourist Association.

MAXTRAX 60 Learn all about Maxtrax & how to use.

EAST COAST MARINA 14 Discover the history & all that East Coast Marina offer

SCARBOROUGH MARINA 36 Find out what Moreton Bay has to offer with Scarborough Marina

. . . . . . r o t i d e e h t m o

fr

Welcome

LL&L Legends!

Another month down and time just seems to be slipping away and passing way too quickly (for my liking anyway).

It only seems like yesterday that the Gold Coast was announced to host the 2018 Commonwealth Games and as we put together this edition of the magazine we are only a month out from these games. Where has this time gone? That was 4 years ago when that was formally announced.

What have you done in the last 4 years?

I go on about time a lot in many of my letters, it is just so important to not take it for granted. Time with our family, time with our kids, time with our friends, time travelling, making memories and exploring. So many of us wait to retire and set off on different adventures to find that our health at times may, can and does restrict us.

Is this is why we are seeing so many take to the roads with young kids in tow? They are getting in and exploring this great country before the kids take to school, or they are taking kids out of school for 12 months and exploring.

What is it that drives people to pack up everything, sell what is left and hit the road to explore? Everyone has a different story, different reason and a different journey, but the one common factor is the love of this great Country and the excitement of travel and exploring the unknown.

We live in such a spoilt world which allows us to research places, products and destinations well before we set off. We can know how many kilometres we plan to travel and calculate how much the journey will cost. We can follow others doing the same trip and have an understanding of how they did it. We definitely cannot say we didn’t know what to expect.

However it doesn’t matter how much planning is done, how many stories followed, how many pictures we look at of others doing it, nothing and I mean nothing compares to experiencing it yourself.

Life is short, it is precious and life is so freaking amazing if you want it to be. I say this as well in most of my letters I write, but I cannot say it

enough. Make the time for your journey, tell your story and leave your mark for those to remember you by.

Be that person who people love to be around, that has so many stories to tell and you tell them with so much passion, they have come from so many experiences, be that person that listens as it breathes knowledge and be that person who never lives in regret and wishes they did take that trip.

Take that trip.

Find your balance and your groove that life loves you back.

Living &

Loving Life

Hayles

Co-Founder & Blogger

h c r a m n i whats on

1 - 18 MARCH

Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival Melbourne, 11 Nicholson Street, Abbotsford, Vic www.visitmelbourne.com

1 - 31 MARCH Art Month Sydney

www.whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

16 - 18 MARCH CMC Rocks Queensland

Willowbank Raceway - Champions Way Ipswich City www.queensland.com

29 MARCH - 2 APRIL National Folk Festival Canberra www.rottnestswimrun.com

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CARAVAN, CAMPING AND LIFESTYLE SHOWS COMING TO A REGION NEAR YOU IN 2018 !

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See the very latest in camper trailers, caravans & motorhomes plus camping & motoring accessories, boats & fishing gear, new vehicles, 4x4’s & offroad motoring.Plus plenty of free daily entertainment & great prizes to win.

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Australian Events

$44,990.

“

I will be thinking like it’s in any stadium in the world. I don’t think I’ll get overwhelmed by the situation as I have a lot of experience under my belt.

”

Australian athletes confirmed f o r G C 2 0 1 8 At h l e t i c s World champion and Gold Coast local Sally Pearson headlined a list of Australian athletes confirmed for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) after the 2018 Australian Athletics Championships & Nomination Trial.

Pearson is one of a number of athletes heading for their record equalling fourth Commonwealth Games.

Pearson is keen to not be distracted by the pressure of competing on home ground.

“I feel exactly the same, yes it’s a home Games and that is exciting, but I don’t think like that,” she said.

“I will be thinking like it’s in any stadium in the world. I don’t think I’ll get overwhelmed by the situation as I have a lot of experience under my belt.”

Joining Pearson is Kathryn Mitchell (javelin), Benn Harradine (discus) and Lauren Wells (400m hurdles), each headed for a fourth Games.

“To win a title and automatic selection is fantastic,” Wells said.

“The Games are going to be incredible. As a 17-year-old I got to run at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2006 and it’s still one of my favourite events and performances I have

ever been in.”

Wells is looking for that elusive podium after finishing fourth at Delhi 2010 and Glasgow 2014.

Reigning Commonwealth champions, Angie Ballard (T54 1500m), Dani Stevens (discus) and Pearson (100m hurdles) will have a chance to defend their titles.

Australian Team Chef de Mission Steve Moneghetti welcomed the athletes on to the Australian Team.

“Over the last two weekends at the Australian Championships, we saw some amazing performances by our Australian athletes on the road and within track and field,” Moneghetti said.

the Commonwealth Games when he competes at Gold Coast 2018.

“Because I’ve done it all my life, it’s normal for me,” Denny said of his juggling act. “I love it. I’m one of the only people that can throw this far in both events in the world and we’ve got a lot more to do. I’m dispelling the myth that you can’t do two events and I enjoy proving people wrong.”

At age 17, Bendere Oboya (NSW) becomes the youngest Australian 400m athlete to be selected for the Games in that event. Another 17-year-old Riley Day (Qld), who won the national sprint double at the trials, has been selected in the 200m.

Olympic bronze medallist, Dane Bird-Smith is another local athlete selected, courtesy of his win at the Australian 20km Race Walking Championships.

Both Oboya and Day won gold at The Bahamas 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games.

GC2018 is the biggest event Australia has seen this decade and you could be part of it.

“Competing on the Gold Coast for a Commonwealth title is going to be the highlight of the year,” he said. “I can’t wait to get out on the road and feel the energy of the crowd lining the course. I know it will bring out the best in me.”

Great tickets are still available for sports including Athletics, Hockey, Weightlifting, Squash and Badminton.

Queensland’s Matt Denny becomes the first athlete since Keith Pardon (NSW) in 1938 and 1950 to represent Australia in both the hammer and discus at

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

at - gc2018.com/tickets

THE BRISBANE BOATIES MARINA IN MANLY ON MORETON BAY. Only a short drive from Brisbane’s CBD and approximately 20 minutes from the Airport.

Within Manly Boat Harbour, we are the ideal boat storage location for locals and visitors to Brisbane with direct access to beautiful Moreton Bay. A short walk to the local village suburb of Manly, where you will find a post office, chemist, news agency, supermarket, coffee shops and restaurants. Also bus and train station close by.

East Coast Marina boasts an impressive multi-tier Dry Storage development, a modern undercover 240 boat dry storage facility. The first and only one of its kind in Brisbane. This is complemented with 330 secure water berths, catering for up to 18m.

Family boaties, cruising yachties, anglers and ocean adventurers are all welcome here at East Coast Marina‘s secure, modern facilities. We have a café, amenities to freshen up, business and trade facilities, security and friendly service.

As a full-service working marina our facilities also include shipwright, marine engineers, marine electrician, marine trimmers, boat sales, and yachting school which is fully accredited with the RYA. Chandlery, sail makers and riggers are close by.

EAST COAST MARINA HISTORY

East Coast Marina was established in 1980 through the foresight of one yacht owner who had a swing mooring off the Manly foreshore.

services including a shipyard. The closest such structure was at Runaway Bay on the Gold Coast.

He was a member of a nearby sailing club and experienced the inconvenience of having to ferry his family to the boat each time they wanted to explore beautiful Moreton Bay.

The demand for berths became so great that once the first stage was completed, approval was sort to double the size of the marina in 1986 to 365 wet berths. In 2012 some minor reconfigurations of the wet berths were undertaken which reduced the total berths available to the present 330.

In 1977, an idea sprung to mind that Brisbane needed a marina for easier boat access. Inspired by the St. Kilda Marina, he approached the Department of Harbours and Marine.

An application was lodged to the Port of Brisbane Authority, the building went to tender, and after winning the tender the marina was in creation, including space on land for buildings, carpark, bistro and various boat

From the pile and swing moorings only available at Manly prior 1980, to the construction of East Coast Marina and three yacht clubs, Manly Harbour became one of the largest boat harbours in the southern hemisphere.

With a continuing eye on meeting

market trends and improving services to the boating community this same yachty saw the need for powerboat dry storage in the area to give access to Moreton Bay. Even though it was 2009, the middle of the GFC, planning process commenced and applications were sought and the decision was made to forge ahead to develop a dry rack storage construction housing 240 power boats. Construction of the facility was completed in January 2014 to become the first dry Storage facility in Brisbane.

East Coast Marina has become one of the leading successful working Marinas within Queensland. From one man’s foresight and long term commitment, East Coast Marina is now catering for berthing of over 550 vessels for the enjoyment of many.

MARINA BERTHS AND DRY RACK STORAGE East Coast Marina, designed for short and long term occupancy, offers protected moorings with direct access to the popular cruising waterways of Moreton Bay and the Moreton Bay Islands.

Access to the marina is limited to marina clients and their guests and entry access is by a security swipe card.

With business and trade services, on-site dining, pump-out facilities for holding tanks, electricity and water – East Coast Marina is the perfect harbour for you and your boat.

Our mooring fees are all inclusive, with no club joining fees or surcharges.

Facilities Include:

• Marina office open 7 days • Showers and toilets • Secure on-site parking • Security patrols • Electricity and water available to all berths

• Pump-out facility • 24 hr coin operated washing machines and dryers • Gas refill service • Fuel available within Manly Harbour • Ice, Hats, sunscreen and bilge pillows available for sale

EAST COAST MARINA HISTORY

East Coast Marina – the smart place to store your boat East Coast Marina’s Dry Stack is a modern undercover boat storage facility. It’s like valet-parking for your boat.

The state-of-the-art dry rack storage facility stores 240 power boats up to 10 metres in length, large boats with fly bridges will be accommodated in our high bay facility.

When it comes to looking after boaties from Brisbane and beyond, this unique undercover Dry Rack facility is second to none. It’s fully secured with card key access and 24/7 CCTV surveillance and the ability to launch and retrieve power boats of various

shapes and sizes with incredible efficiency.

Customers can ring ahead, and the East Coast Marina team will have their boat ready and waiting for them in the water by the time they arrive. On return after their day on the water, our staff will lift the boat, wash the hull down and flush the motor before returning it to secure dry storage. The hull wash and engine flush service is included in the rates.

The state-of-the-art dry rack boat storage facility is also environmentally sustainable using recyclable rain-water harvesting for boat washing, motor flushing and landscape irrigation. Sewerage pump out and disposal, and grey water recovery and treatment has also been provided.

East Coast Marina is perfect for all Brisbane residents who may not have room for their boats or don’t want to tow through traffic or for those further away looking for a home base for their boat and a convenient launching place to explore Queensland’s waterways and beautiful Moreton Bay.

MORETON BAY OFFERS WONDERFUL FISHING & SAILING AT ANY TIME OF THE YEAR. .

FISHING Whiting will be in plentiful numbers in summer and winter around the small boat channel of the chain banks the Rous Channel from start to finish and the naval banks fisherman gutter.

Also found at the western side of Moreton Island especially the sand hills big and small all the way to Tangalooma.

The reef fishing around the bay islands is always good for squire sweet lip. January the squid should be on the bite as well in the weed banks in the bay.

The fish we all wait for is the spotty mackerel to come into the bay and summer is the time they usually arrive, couple of things we have to wait for are the northerly winds, hot days for the water temperature to get up to 74 to 76 f the bib brown jelly fish and the mutton birds and the coral spawn.

Winter brings early morning cold south westerly's, the days end up being sunny, warm and glassy, and the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets, which is an ideal time for most of us mad fisherman to get out for a feed of

fresh fish.

The first sign of cooler weather bring on the tiger squid around most of our Bay Islands with the eastern side of Green Island being very productive, especially in the 3 to 5 ft. mark, red, brown and silver squid jigs. The 3.0 to 3.5 gm. jigs are work.

The school mackerel should get better and better as winter season progresses and the areas you should be looking at are the Hope Bank beacons, the deeper gutters in the Rous and Rainbow Channel.

Weekly updates on fishing in the bay, www.fishingmonthly.com.au

Moreton Bay reports, will keep you up to date on where the fish are biting all year round.

SAILING On East Coast Marina’s doorstep is the fabulous cruising grounds of Moreton Bay and its southern islands between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

At the north-eastern end of the bay there are some magnificent

anchorages off the western side of Moreton Island such as the famous Tangalooma Wrecks, Lucinda Bay, Sand Hills and Days Gutter.

This is about a 20 mile 3-4 hour leisurely reaching sail in predominantly south-easterly winds to the Tangalooma leads from East Coast Marina.

For a short sail north-east there lies the historic islands of St Helena and Mud, and directly east is Green Island.

These are great day trips for a sail with a lunch stop over before returning to East Coast Marina.

Further south on the western side of North Stradbroke Island you find the peace and tranquillity of Myora, with its freshwater spring, or a quiet anchorage a little further south called One Mile.

Across the way is the fabulous beach at Horseshoe Bay on the southern side of Peel Island, a lovely windward sail in a southeaster, and you have the perfect protection of the Lazaret on the northern side.

Recommendations for how to spend your Easter long weekend FOR many Australians, camping over the Easter long weekend is a rite of passage. While the long weekend is one of the most popular times of year for caravanning and camping holidays, the season as a whole offers some of the best opportunities for trips all around the country.

With the summer heat behind us and the cold winter weather yet to come, Autumn provides some of the most temperate conditions for those looking to soak up our country’s nature and make the most of the great outdoors.

Whether travelling solo, as a couple, a group of friends or a family, there are countless opportunities on offer with something to suit every taste.

For the young families wanting to enjoy the last of the beach weather, a trip to Batemans Bay in New South Wales offers an oceanside escape just a few hours away from Sydney. Kids and parents alike can spend their days swimming, snorkeling, fishing and bushwalking all from the convenience of the BIG4 Batemans Bay Beach Resort. Or if you’re looking for something on the other side of the country, Western Australia’s Coogee Beach offers all the regular beach attractions in addition to a cycleway and a host of exciting activities. With a variety of cafes, coffee shops, playgrounds and parks all nearby, it’s your perfect new go-to family holiday.

For those taking a child-free trip, now is the perfect time of year to take advantage of some of Australia’s popular wineries. If you’re chasing warm weather within driving distance, head up to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast for some of the best surf, sun and sand our country has to offer. Just a short drive into the hinterland lay some of our best wineries including Montville’s Flame Hill Vineyard and Mason Wines, with Lilyponds Holiday Park located just 10 minutes away in Mapleton for convenient accommodation.

Visit www.letsgocaravanandcamping.com.au and use our caravan holiday park finder to start planning your next caravan camping adventure.

www.letsgocaravanandcamping.com.au

Make the most of a change in season

Tiffin Allegro Breeze 33IBR

You now also have the option of with a King or Queen sized bed.

The kitchen has also increased in size and now features a cooktop with griller to go with the convection oven.

We’re super excited to introduce our newest member of the Tiffin family - The 33IBR! Featuring an all new floor plan!

We now have 3 slide outs including one in the bedroom which has drastically increased bedroom space!

The living area has the choice of either a 2 seater workstation (pictured) or a booth dinette.

The sofa bed is another of the many changes you’ll find in our new floor plan.

Instead of scissoring like the previous model, it folds out like a conventional sofa bed. It also features an air mattress.

It’s got all the features you need like 5kw Cummins generator, full air ride suspension with auto levelling feature, dual ducted rooftop air cons, automatic satellite, 3x LED Smart TVs including one outside under the huge electric patio awning, 218L 12V compressor fridge freezer, 2x 200W solar panels, 4000W inverter, 430a/h

AGM battery bank and loads more!

Along with the new floor plan 2018 saw the introduction of the new ZF independent front suspension. Put simply, this coach rolled off the production line RIGHT HAND DRIVE.

have improved out of sight.

Driving a Breeze is now like driving a car!!

Not only is that a huge plus but the new front end features disc brakes instead of drums and the handling characteristics

Further details can be found on our website and we

have lotsof new stock arriving over the next 3 months!

Get in touch to begin ‘Roughing it Smoothly’.

Murray Robertson 0416 080 127 murray@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au

Alex Rees-Hyde 0411 616 617 alex@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au

P. 07 5563 2559 | E. service@tiffinmotorhomes.com.au www.tiffinmotorhomes.com.au

GOURMET MEALS TELLS US WHY IT IS OK TO PACK FROZEN FOR YOUR NEXT

ROAD TRIP

When planning your holiday, your road trip or your weekend away, there is always a shopping list and if you are anything like me you head straight to the fruit and veg shop, the butcher and the grocery store and this is definitely a great way to do it. However do you keep a stock of frozen meals in the freezer for those nights you just want to take in the view, the sunset or watch the kids play?

Planning ahead can save you money and time and allows you to take your holiday as it comes and not always have to spend time prepping and cooking every meal and it doesn’t compromise nutrition.

Gourmet Meals tells us what the benefits of choosing frozen over fresh are and why this might be worth doing.

When compared with their fresh alternatives, frozen meals are still wrongly misconceived to be the unhealthier option.

However, research continuously suggests that it’s quite the opposite.

A common misconception is that frozen foods lack the same levels of nutrition, but in actual fact, frozen meals can retain even more nutrients than fresh food.

With every day that fruit and vegetables sit at the shops or in your fridge, more and more nutrients are lost, while freezing these foods keeps their valuable vitamins and nutrients intact.

If you’re after a calorie controlled diet that’s not only convenient but also maintains its nutritional integrity, why not try some of their frozen ready-made meals?

Gourmet Meals provides a wide range of healthy and portion controlled meals that are high in fibre and protein, and reduced in salt and fat.

THE BENEFITS OF CHOOSING FROZEN OVER FRESH

Gourmet Meals are snap frozen in order to retain all their freshness, nutrients, and flavours.

They go straight from the pot to the blast freezer in order to stay fresh without the need for any added preservatives, flavours or colours.

All of the meals are free from gluten and additives, and the act of freezing simply leaves the goodness intact – ready for you to take advantage of once you heat them up to eat.

Gourmet Meals has a varied menu filled with great tasting meals that are just like home cooking and will bring you comfort during the coming cooler months.

Hearty meals like Peppercorn Beef, Lamb Bourguignon and Cottage Pie are just a few of the many wholesome meals that will keep you satisfied and healthy this autumn.

Ordering ready-made frozen meals is extremely convenient for busy parents and time-poor professionals; they also minimize food wastage, which is not only good for the hip pocket, but also reduces our environmental footprint.

Check out our menu today to discover our wide range of healthy meals that can be delivered straight to your door at a competitive price.

Australian Marine Wholesale HISTORY

Australian Marine Wholesale was formed in March 2011 by Errol Cain, the then Managing Director of Riviera Electronics which operated from within the Riviera manufacturing facility. Australian Marine Wholesale was started with 3 staff and 4 main focus goals.

• Importer and Distributor of Sea Recovery desalination systems (since changed to BlueWater Desalination) • Supply and installation of navigation and entertainment systems for the new Belize brand of vessel manufactured in Taiwan.

• Offer our 25 years of service and experience to other Marquees such as New Ocean (now White Haven, Integrity Motor Yachts etc whom we still work with today.

• Offer supply to other marine trade entity’s that don’t hold accounts for many of the major brands.

After choosing a name, registering the company and website, next was to select suitable premises to operate from. After looking at all the available premises in 2011, we settled on the newly built building J at The Boat Works. Australian Marine Wholesale was the 1st tenant to be located in unit 2, J building. Unit 1 was reserved for a chandlery business (currently called Marine Trade Supplies whom have also expanded into our old unit number 2)

Our 240 square metre office, showroom and workshop served us well for the 1st 6 years however by the start of 2017 we had grown to some 11 staff and required more room in a hurry. Fortunately for us, Tony, our very generous and energetic land lord was building another showroom and workshop complex at the top entrance of The Boat Works aptly named Building L. In March 2017 we moved into Building L Unit 2 which is our new 400 square metre showroom, office and much larger workshop. We opened with all the fanfare of a block buster movie with the ribbon to our new premises being cut by 2 of our local members of Parliament. We had live music, ladies serving drinks and burgers on roller skates and a great atmosphere.

Since our opening we have worked hard to create an interactive and intuitive showroom (considered by many to be the best electrical / electronics showroom in Australia). We strive to improve at least 1 aspect of our showroom every week.

Since 2011 Australian Marine Wholesale have been appointed as the Australian Distributor for the following brands;

2011 - SeaRecovery Desalination, Lumitec LED Lighting, Iris Innovation camera systems 2013 - BlueWater Desalination

2104 - Pacific Light Desalination 2015 - Master Marine Pro

2016 - OceanVolt electric propulsion systems, Digital Yacht equipment 2017 - Racegeek, Mazu and Weems & Plath

Australian Marine Wholesale have exhibited at every Sanctuary Cove boat show, every Gold Coast Marine Expo and most Sydney International Boat shows since she was formed back in 2011.

A FEW OF OUR MILESTONES IN THE PAST YEAR HAVE INCLUDED; Biggest Raymarine Dealer in Australia Biggest Fusion Dealer in Australia Major increase in Luvmitec sales Major increase in Garmin sales

Major increase in Navico (Simrad) sales

We have grown at over 20% every year for the past 3 years

P: 0755801511 | www.amwholesale.com.au sales@amwholesale.com.au The Boatworks, Unit 2, Building L, 1 Boatworks Drive, Coomera QLD 4209

2017 Adria Altea 552pk

2017 Jayco Flamingo

Our brand new Adria Caravan is available for you to hire in Perth! Beautifully fitted out and sleeping up to 6 people, the best thing about this van is how easy it is to tow!

This Van is Brand New and has been taken out once with our family. Features - 1 x Queen, 1 x Double & Fold Down dinette area to sleep 2 more small children Air Con/Heating Fully equipped Kitchen

$130 / Day + GST | Quinns Rocks/Perth

$120 / Day + GST | Cranbourne, VIC

2010 Jayco Basestation

2016 Jayco Silverline OB 21.65-3

Hire out our beautiful 2010 Jayco Basestation 21 ft.

Outback – It is in amazing condition!

Sleeps 6 with 4 full sized bunks in the rear.

Features include: 2 berth. 1 x Island Queen Separate Toilet and Shower & Vanity Battery and Solar Panels, Air Con/Heating Fully Equipped Kitchen and utensils

$100 / Day + GST | Holden Hill/SA, SA

$125 / Day + GST | Horsham

2012 New Age Big Red Bunk/Ensuite 21Ft

2017 RVA Pty Ltd

Beautiful 2012 New Age Big Red, plenty of room for the family, generous layout, sleeping capacity for a family of five with a curtain partition for a little bit of privacy.

FULL OFF ROAD CAPABLE, sleeps 4 1 x Queen, Single Beds, Fully Equipped Kitchen Battery and Generator

$125 / Day + GST | Lawnton or Sunshine Coast, QLD

$90 / Day + GST | Howlong, NSW

2018 Mars Spirit FF Camper Trailer

2016 Jayco Expanda Touring 18.58-2

Luxury 4 berth forward folding camper which can be set up in less than 5 minutes plus a further 10 minutes for the annex if required. Comprising a queen size bed plus a dinette which converts to a bed. Ideal for the Victorian high country.

Hire our awesome 6 berth family Caravan for a memorable Holiday or try before you buy your own!!

Our van is fully equipped with all essential items as we believe holidays are meant to be simple.

$99 / Day + GST | Braeside

$130 / Day + GST | Coffs Harbour

2016 Coromal Element 632 Semi Offroad Our Coromal Element Luxury 6.32m Caravan is available to Hire! Features: Queen size island bed Reverse cycle air conditioner, Cafe style dinette with fold away table, 190l fridge freezer Gas oven and cook top, Ensuite, Washing machine $130 / Day + GST | Brunswick Heads, NSW

2018 Avan Golf Savannah Maxxi 501

2017 Retreat Fraser 219B

2018 Avan Golf Savannah Maxxi 501 for Hire!!

Additional Features Include: Hot water 240v or Gas (Inside and out) Shower outside also 2 x burner cooking station with sink and Fridge outside NB- Air conditioner and Microwave is 240v ONLY

Enjoy getting away in style in this one-year-new luxury caravan! This van has everything you could want to go off grid, or enjoy your time in a caravan park with all the mod cons! With off-road suspension you can enjoy the ride and access places other vans wouldn’t dream of.

$125 / Day + GST | Goulburn, NSW

$135 / Day + GST | Tecoma/Yarra Ranges,

2011 VW Crafter Motorhome Beach Layout

2016 Jayco Conquest Motorhome ‘Bindi’ MS24-1

Easy to drive with super comfortable pillow top king size rear bed and queen Luton bed. All the necessities, and some luxuries, of home on wheels.

2016 Jayco Conquest Motorhome. Premium beautiful Motorhome with 6 berth with 6 seat belted seats. Luxury travelling at its best. Easy to drive 6 speed auto on a Mercedes chassis and rear view camera.

$110 / Day + GST | Mardi, NSW

$230 / Day + GST | Geelong/Birregurra

Contact Yachtshare today!

W. yachtshare.com.au | P. 0410 696 578 | E. anton@yachtshare.com.au

BOO K TODAY www.sirromet.com

Emma George never leaves home without her Engel!

“When people ask me why I chose an Engel fridge, I tell them it’s because they are reliable and durable. I bought this Engel fridge 14 years ago and it has served me well.

Our family has camped all around Australia, travelled some of the roughest roads, and our Engel fridge has never let us down!”. - Emma George

l is e g n E y h w ’s e r e H : a fridge for life • The unique Sawafuji Swing Motor with only one moving part.

• Solid steel construction makes Engel strong, tough and built to last.

• Engel has the lowest maximum power draw of any fridge on the market.

• Easy power options – 240volt, 12 volt and 24volt.

• Efficient design with tough fixtures and hinges.

• Engel fridges are designed to work in the harshest conditions of the Australian outback.

“It’s a fridge for life!”

• Engel have a huge range of accessories for your fridge.

• Engel have an Australia wide repair service in case something does go wrong.

For more information or your nearest stockist, visit www.engelaustralia.com.au or email info@engelaustralia.com.au

/EngelAustralia

/EngelAustralia

CONTACT US

P. 07 3285 8456 W. racewheelsaust.com E. info@racewheelsaust.com

r a e y p a G y l i Fam The FOUR FAVES

After almost 600 days travelling Australia on our ‘Family Gap Year’, one of the most common questions we get asked is…..’What’s your favourite place?’

When you spend 62,000km’s travelling our beautiful country, it’s hard to pick just 1 location or moment in time as a favourite. In fact, it’s hard to decide whether the moment was more memorable, or whether it was the destination, or a combination of both. So instead of choosing just 1 thing, we’ve decided to share some of our TOP moments and destinations along the way.

In no particular order, here are a few of the most special places and moments on our travels.

“We will forever be a shape we may never have become if it wasn’t for taking the leap of faith.” ”

1. Tasmania - This is a

MUST! Yes it’s expensive to travel over on The Spirit of Tasmania, but once you pay the return fare, that’s about all you’ll spend in accommodation if you’re fully self contained.

We spent 2 months in Tassie and it is truly devine!!

We could easily share stories of our favourite moments and destinations in Tassie alone!

Whether it was climbing to the Summit of Cradle Mountain together, riding our mountain bikes on the Derby trails, discovering the abundance of incredible wine, including our favourite Spring Vale label, which is owned by friends, you name it, Tassie has it.

The food was incredible, the fresh air was amazing, the people were friendly, the beaches stunning, we honestly felt like we were travelling internationally.

If we did it all again, Tassie would be somewhere we would spend a lot of time!! I am sure we’ll own property there one day!!

2. Tassie Memorable Moment One of the most memorable moments in Tassie was definitely that day we almost got divorced (kidding) while navigating the narrow streets in an attempt to find Old Macs Farm.

You see, we were a 14.8m long and a 6 Tonne combined weight vehicle, which is HUGE! Being new to the road, we were careful, safe and conscious of our size.

We approached a road which appeared to not be suitable for large vehicles, but without any signage to confirm so.

Yas shouted at the last minute “don’t go up there” and I hesitated to agree (no sign remember!), but I turned on her advice anyway. Then we wove in and out of streets, with no idea how to get to our destination. Yas strongly suggested I pull over, then she jumped out of the car and I had no idea what she was doing.

She came back and showed me a device she’d found when

Googling ‘truck navigation system’.

It turns out that Navman make a device that allows you to enter your vehicle weight and length, then it will safely guide you on the roads around Australia that suit your heavy rig. WINNING!!

No more getting lost, no more arguments, no more worrying about whether we’re going to end up in a positon we can’t get out of.

So it turned out after we spent that $400 on the Navman, that I was VERY lucky to not travel that road Yas shouted about avoiding.

Apparently there’s quite a few rigs that have been towed out of the hairpin turn at the top of the hil. Key message here…..always listen to your co-driver! (and yes, Yas wrote that last bit)

3. Coral Bay, Western

Australia - If you interviewed our whole family separately and asked us to name our favourite place, you’d find that we would all name Coral Bay as a fave!

The turquoise water, the white sand, the incredible Ningaloo Reef, the friendships, it truly has it all.

We could have all stayed forever, but knew that it wasn’t reality at this time in our lives.

We won’t lie though, if the girls didn’t need to go back to school, we probably would have tried to find work for ourselves somewhere local in order to stay in the region.

It is spectacular in beauty and we didn’t want to leave. If you don’t have it on your ‘must do’, then you must change plans to make it happen, you absolutely won’t regret it.

4.

Overall Memorable Moment - The gift of TIME! Time together is by far the most memorable moment of our trip!!

Let me explain……….We recently had afternoon tea with friends of ours from Brisbane.

They are the incredible family that took our chickens when we left, then also offered to look after our dog Lofty.

Now while some people think we’re fools for leaving our beloved dog behind, we stand by our decision and support our girls, who were brave enough to make that choice.

Travelling with Lofty would have meant no National Parks, making some of our most treasured memories unavailable to us. In the end, Lofty was fostered out to the Sealby family, who ironically are now planning their own trip.

We could not be happier for

them! They are a SUPER family, with 4 children and a bond of love for each other most people would envy. Lofty was so loved by them while we were gone, we will eternally be grateful for their unconditional love.

So when we chatted about the trip and they asked us questions and advice, it became apparent that the most memorable moment wasn’t a place, a thing, a day or an experience along the way.

It wasn’t the mountains, the swimming, the beaches, the pools, nor the ice-cream, the sweet shops, the coffee or the locals.

The most treasured and memorable moment was the overall gift of time together as a family. It took us to return home to realise how special this really was

“All you need is 20 seconds of insane courage, and something great will come of it”

Looking back and reflecting, we realise that we could have easily not gone, made excuses, talked ourselves out of it and just chalked the idea of going around Australia up as a ‘dream’. If we thought about it too much, we probably wouldn’t have gone. It didn’t make sense, it’s crazy to rip the girls out of school and leave family and friends (and our beloved dog) behind. It’s not safe, high risk, how will be navigate such a big country?

What about phone reception? What about our jobs? What about money? Bills? Friends?

Special events? Yas’s mums 60th? So many great reasons to NOT go…...but instead we took a leaf out of Richard Branson’s book and said ‘screw it, just do it’. We didn’t think about it! We didn’t over analyse! We didn’t care what people thought! We didn’t think negatively! We didn’t let judgement shape our plans! We just did it! If faced with the same opportunity, we would do it all over again!!

The time we spent together as a family was priceless. We may not realise the value of this investment for many years, perhaps not even until the girls are well into their adult lives. Yes they missed school, but they didn’t miss learning. Yes they missed exams, but they didn’t miss experiences. Yes they missed their friends, but they didn’t miss new friendships.

Life is too short! We all overthink things too much! If you’ve ever thought about doing it and this thought brings you joy, then find a way to make your dream a reality.

As we now look back on the 10,000+ photo’s we took along the way, we have ZERO regrets and we’re so happy to have shared such a unique and life changing experience together.

We will forever be a shape we may never have become if it wasn’t for taking the leap of faith.

“All you need is 20 seconds of insane courage, and something great will come of it”

Water Filler

Fridge bar

Make filling your tank easy and quick with this water tank filler. The specially designed head that attaches to any standard hose, holds the hose in position and has an angled pipe for seamless use.

Simple yet handy, this adjustable fridge bar is easily fitted in your fridge to help keep items from falling during your travels

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Camec Instantaneous hot water For reliable continuous hot water, don’t wait around 40 minutes for your water to heat up before you can use it.

Featuring a digital display and temperature selection, the Camec instantaneous hot water offers peace of mind in its easy and economical functionality caravanrvcamping.com.au/whie-camec-digital-instanta-

neous-gas-water-heater

Maxxfan roof vent with rain dome, thermostat and electric lift Featuring an easy to use and read ceiling mounted control panel, the MaxxFan Deluxe provides easy ventilation. It features a removable flyscreen, 10 speed fan motor, can be used when the lid is closed, both intake and exhaust modes and twin lifting arms ensures that vibrations are kept to a minimum when used in windy conditions. caravanrvcamping.com.au/maxxfan-deluxe-roof-ventilation-fan-electric

Stone Shield

Extension Pole

A stone shield helps protect your van from stones and other unwanted debris. A must have for any off road travel. These come flat packed and are easily installed on you’re A-Frame.

Featuring tough rip stop mesh and extra large rubber mud flaps to protect your undercarriage.

Make cleaning your car and RV easy with this lightweight aluminium extension pole which extends to 2.5 meters. The on/off switch means that when a hose is attached you can minimise water wastage. There is also a screw-fitting for attaching brush heads.

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Brake Controller

Sunscreen

The Hayman Reese Sentinel digital electronic brake controller is as versatile as they come. It can be mounted in almost any position and it is easy to switch between tow trailers as it easily syncs. With advanced internal circuit protection, and a 3 year manufacture’s warranty, you can’t go wrong with this unit.

Providing both shade and privacy, easily attaches to your awning with either the use of velcro straps, ropes and tent pegs or fitting within the sail track of your anti flap kit. It is also compatible with the Fiamma fast clip system.

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STAY WITH US! AVOID THE TRAFFIC TRAVEL BY WATER

BOOK NOW! (07) 5597 9999

reservations@courancove.com.au

YOUR COMMONWEALTH GAMES ISLAND ESCAPE

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Annex Mat The annex mat comes in 4 sizes 3mx1.8m, 4mx2.4m, 5mx2.4m, 6mx2.4m, grey on black and is reversible.

DON’T FORGET YOUR MAT FOR THE OUTSIDE AREA

kookaburra homes floatfest Floatfest 2018 is a two day event proudly instigated by the members of the Murraylands Regional Tourist Association, to encourage you to visit our wonderful Region, and experience life by the River.

Floatfest is a family focused event attempting to break a World Record to gather the largest number of floating kayaks and canoes by “Paddling into the Record Books”.

#Floatfest18 is coming!

That’s right, the Kookaburra Homes Floatfest is happening again in 2018!

Floatfest is a two day event focused on having fun on the water of the Murray River while encouraging and teaching safe water practices.

2018 marks Floatfest’s fifth attempt to break our own record for the most kayaks and canoes gathered together on the Mighty Murray at Murray Bridge, South Australia.

After 2017 threw some nasty weather our way we’ve decided to give it another go in 2018. This year we will be taking on our classic challenge, to gather as many kayaks, canoes and paddle boards as we can and raft them together - our all time record is 185!

For the second time we will be lining up as many canoes and kayaks as we can end-to-end along the banks of the river - we need to beat our 2017 record of 40!

2018 brings new elements to our programme with the introduction of two new challenges: have as many people with their kayaks and canoes entering the water together, AND on Saturday for the first time we will be holding an inflatable challenge We encourage you to join us in our attempt toget as many canoes and kayaks on the Murray River at Murray Bridge as possible on Sunday the 8th of April 2018, and put this region into the Record Books!

Bring your RV/camper/tent, stay at the Caravan Parks in our Region – and stay

awhile and enjoy our wonderful Region.

Core Activities at Floatfest 2018

Original record attempt: to gather as many kayaks and canoes rafted together for the record attempt.

Second record attempt: to line as many canoes/kayaks along the banks of the Murray River as we can!

Kayaking demonstrations and instruction for paddling skills/ techniques.

Other activities to enjoy at this year’s Floatfest include; houseboats open for inspection. Market stalls (applications open, ask us for more information now).

Obstacle Courses raising funds for Can:Do 4Kids. Canoe Polo Demonstrations and Geocaching.

Register for Floatfest today!

W. floatfest.com.au E. info@floatfest.com.au

$125.50

$39

NEW STORE NOW OPEN IN CURRUMBIN TRAILER PARTS

BOAT TRAILER PARTS

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Axels Hubs Discs & Drums Springs U Bolts Bearings

Rollers & Wobble Rollers Jockey Wheels Winches Winch Straps & Cable All Galvanised Fittings LED Lights

Bearings Replaced LED Light Fitted Rust Repairs Brakes Serviced Trailers Modified Jockey Wheel Replacement

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GET YOUR LOAD ON THE ROAD

We offer full MARINE servicing and TRAILER repairs 13 Villiers Drive Currumbin Qld 4223 sales@trailerspartsandrepairs.com

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EXPERIENCING FREEDOM We have been on the road now for 4 months and have to say, we have fallen in love with low cost and free camping. Why spend a fortune at caravan parks when you can live quite comfortably without all the necessities.

Whether it’s camping at a showground, in the bush on the Nullarbor or in the forest at a National Park, every experience has been different. We love the feeling of getting back to nature; being free in the outback and watching the kids explore their surroundings.

It’s away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and what’s even better it’s free or very affordable!

When purchasing our van we needed to make sure it was set up for extended free camping stays to get the most out of our camping experience.

So what do you need to get the most out of your free camping experiences? You don’t need to spend up big and get all the bells and whistles.

we get a full day’s sun.

GAS BOTTLES Our caravan is fitted with 2 x 9kg gas bottles in which are quite ampule to suit our needs for cooking, cooling and heating on the cold nights for few weeks at a time.

Our fridge is a Thetford 184L 3way fridge freezer which can be run off the batteries or gas. We tend to use the gas when out in the bush as its more efficient.

Firstly identify what you want to do and figure out what equipment you would need that would maximise your stay.

WATER Our van is fitted with 2 x 100L water tanks. We also carry extra 2 x 20L containers as spares. This way if we get low on water the 20L tanks can be filled up when going into town.

SOLAR PANELS We have 2 x 150 watt Solar Panels fitted to the top of our van.

This gives us sufficient input to keep our dual batteries charged for lighting, tv, and laptop depending on usage and providing

When your only water supply is what you are carrying we become very water conscious by cutting back on usage, finding better ways to use and save water.

Even if it comes down to bathing with a bucket and flannel.

HOT WATER SYSTEM Our caravan is fitted with a gas/240v hot water system with 25L holding tank which is filled via a 12v pump from the main tanks.

Most caravans come fitted with these, these days.

We only turn this on prior to use and turned back off. This is to save on gas as pointless having hot water all day long if not in use.

Another great way to have warm/hot water is the solar shower bags – just put them out in the sun

to heat up or the good old fashion way, boil your water over a fire.

ABLUTION AND LAUNDRY Most caravans these days have on-board facilities such as a toilet and shower.

We use a drainage hose that empties our grey water into an old 20L drinking container.

This is emptied as needed.

Grey water tanks are starting to become more and more common for self-containment.

As for the toilet, we have a 25L cassette with toilet chemicals to break down the nasties that is always emptied into the nearest Dump Point.

Never pour it into public toilets as it blocks the systems. If we need to take a number 2 in the bush we use a shovel and bury it, as no one want to see toilet paper Christmas trees everywhere.

12V FANS These little rippers come in handy for those warm still nights when you just need a little air flow to cool us down. These are very power efficient for running at night.

FOAM MATS We purchased some square foam mats from Bunnings and placed them under the mattress on the kid’s bunks. These were added as extra insulation and to keep the chill out.

GAS HEATER The air conditioner in our van is a reverse cycle but cannot be run while free camping unless we run the generator as its only 240v.

This is why we decided to get a gas heater installed for those freezing cold nights. The great thing about them is they warm the van up quickly, its economical and best of all it runs off 12V.

INVERTER We purchased an inverter for those times when 12v just does not cut it. For example charging the laptop, using the coffee machine or cooking some toast. There plenty of uses for the inverter.

GENERATOR We purchased a 2.5kva generator as back up for when there isn’t enough sun to charge up the batteries or if it’s stinking hot and we need to run the air conditioner.

When it comes to free camping or going off the grid for a while we all have our own needs, find out what suit you best and set yourself up for that, remember have fun and enjoy the great outdoors.

Laundry is hand washed in a bucket of soapy water if needed as we opted out of getting an on-board washing machine as extra weight and the water usage was too high for us. If big washing is needed we tend to use a laundromat or wait till we get to a caravan park.

OUTDOOR SHOWER We had an external shower added to our van. This has definitely come in handy to wash the kid’s feet off or a quick wash after coming back from the beach.

Safe and Happy Travels Dan and Fiona

caravan and camping electrics Beenleigh Batteries your auto electrics specialists!

Beenleigh Batteries offers a comprehensive range of auto electrical services on all vehicle types including cars, trucks, trailers, boats motorbikes, scooters, caravans, RV’s, camper trailers and more.

They specialise in providing high quality service and workmanship and offer an extensive range of auto electrical services at competitive prices.

Beenleigh Batteries can assist you in a range of services from batteries for cars, motorbikes, boats, trucks or camping to auto electrical diagnostics and repairs. Wiring and fitment of new parts or accessories to boats, trailers and watercraft electrical. Plus Much More!

Starting out as a sole trader, Beenleigh Batteries has now grown to a team of 3 staff and we merit this growth to the repeat patronage and ongoing support of our customers and local community.

At Beenleigh Batteries, we are passionate about providing you with caravan, camping and recreation vehicle solutions to get you on the road towards your next holiday destination.

This includes full installation, repairs or set ups for: Caravans; Motorhomes; Campers; Off road vehicles; Camper trailers and more.

Our teams of qualified auto electricians are not only experienced at repairing and installing caravan and camping electrics, but have personal knowledge and experience in this area. Our team is happy to provide you with range of recommendations and solutions based on your needs.

Electrical services range from dual battery systems, battery chargers and charge system installation, electric

brake controllers, lighting and LED systems, along with general 12 volt wiring repairs and all other electrical requirements for your vehicle.

Dual Battery Systems Dual battery systems are a must for any camping, caravan or on-road holiday adventure. A dual battery system will allow you to run numerous accessories without draining your batteries.

We offer a range of options for the installation of our dual battery systems and can tailor the system specifically to your needs. Call us today to talk to one of our friendly auto electricians about installing a dual battery system in your vehicle.

Charge Systems and Battery Chargers We can install a range of charge

systems or battery chargers into your vehicle. These will allow you to recharge your battery while travelling or charge where powered sites are provided.

Electric Brake Controllers Fitting an electric brake control system will ensure your safety and the safety of others when towing with your vehicle. This system allows for smooth stopping and adjustable in-car controls over brakes on vans or trailer.

Electric brake controllers are legally required when towing items over 750kg.

Lighting Systems & LED lights We can recommend, fit and install a range of lighting options for your van, camper or RV. Upgrading to LED

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ghts eliminates the need for frequently eplacing blubs. They have more urable structure and design which makes them more resistant to vibration nd dust.

aravan/RV Solar eenleigh Batteries offers supply nd installation of Solar Systems on aravans, Motorhomes and Camper ailers.

eenleigh Batteriesstrive to make very customer’s experience enjoyable nd set a high standard of quality for l our work. The team at Beenleigh atteries are the caravan and camping ectrics specialists for Brisbane South, ogan, Beenleigh, Springwood and he Gold Coast. Contact us for all your ecreational vehicle needs.

Contact Beenleigh Batteries today for your electric needs!

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UNDERSTANDING WEIGHTS

Tare mass is the base weight of the van at manufacture without payload or after-market accessories, without water in the tanks or the gas bottles filled.

ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) is the maximum manufacturer specified weight of your loaded caravan or trailer and is measured unhitched and sitting on it’s jockey wheel and axle(s).This is a rating set by the manufacturer and cannot be exceeded.

GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) is the maximum allowable total mass of a fully loaded motor vehicle, consisting of the tare mass (mass of the vehicle) plus the load (including passengers).

GTM (Gross Trailer Mass) is the maximum weight your trailer can be at its axle(s) and is sometimes referred to as the axle capacity. Typically this is

measured while the caravan or trailer wheels are sitting on a weighbridge but the hitched tow vehicle isn’t.

TBM (Tow Ball Mass) is the effective mass on the tow ball from the trailer hitch. The maximum TBM is not typically specified by the manufacturer but as a guide should be up to 10% of the ATM. GCM (Gross Combined Mass) is the rating provided by the manufacturer.

When you weigh your tow vehicle and your caravan or trailer when they are all loaded up.

Ball Weight The Force ( in Kg’s) exerted downwards on a vehicle’s tow ball by your fully packed caravan. When your caravan is hitched, this mass is included in your tow vehicle’s payload.

Axle Load How much weight the front and rear axles can handle safely. The

combined sum of both axle ratings usually adds up to more than the GVM, giving a bit of leeway as to where the weight is distributed throughout the vehicle.

Payload is all the bits you add on or load up to take away (usually about 300kg allowance).The payload is worked out by deducting the “Tare Mass” from the “ATM”. It must not be exceeded under any circumstances.

Safety, insurance & warranty may be affected if the specified payload is exceeded

More information available at

www.everythingcaravanandcamping.com

Mobile service, We come to you 10 YRS EXPERIENCE” AND “FULLY INSURED” Fuel Tank Cleaning QLD is a specialised provider of tank cleaning services. Based in Brisbane we service clients in the commercial, industrial & marine sectors throughout Queensland & New South Wales. Our services include the removal of water, bacteria and contaminants from in ground or above ground bulk fuel storage tanks.

Fuel Tank Cleaning Qld uses intrinsically Safe Equipment for the transfer of fuels at service stations from tank to tank or for the bottom loading of fuel tankers. This includes flammable liquids or dangerous goods. We are licensed to transport liquid waste including flammable liquids and dangerous goods. Fuel Tank Cleaning Qld also has a licence to transport waste for disposal at approved waste disposal facilities.

We also specialise in fuel tanks on boats which are inaccessible, we have fuel polishing equipment as well advice on the maintenance and treatment of fuel, including the use of biocides for the control of bacteria as well as other issues in modern fuel. These services are also suitable for the maintenance of emergency generator fuel systems. and farm tanks. We can also design, install and service filtration units for diesel systems and oil lubrication systems including heavy machinery, engines and rock crushers at quarries Fuel Tank Cleaning Qld is also capable of gas free & confined spaces work for pressure cleaning inside larger tanks including fuel, sullage, grey or fresh water tanks.

Fuel Tank Cleaning Qld has the capability to service larger water craft including fishing vessels and super yachts. We will at all times take great care to prevent damage to the interior and exterior of your investment. All work is completed to a high safety standard for your protection as well as ours.

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use the built-in shovel to clear a path

tips for using maxtrax in the sand We’ve all been there, stuck in the sand with absolutely no way out.

Even if you’ve done everything right and lowered your tyre pressures, everyone gets stuck sometime! Necessity is the key to innovation, and being stuck on a beach is where MAXTRAX were born. Here’s a few tips to make sure you get the most out of your MAXTRAX so you can look like a pro in the sand (even if you get stuck!)

When your vehicle gets stuck in the sand, it essentially turns into a beached whale, unable to move because the underbody is spreading out the weight, and the tyres have no grip. By properly clearing your vehicle’s path with the easy-to-use built-in shovel, and by placing your MAXTRAX at an angle, they’ll lift your vehicle up and out of the sand. If you put the right foot on the ground, your tyres will just spin because the vehicle’s underbody is still bogged!

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We’ve designed MAXTRAX with six easy-to use handles and pointed ends so they can function as a shovel when you need them most. Remember, unless MAXTRAX are firmly planted underneath your tyres, you won’t be able to get enough grip to get yourself unstuck. An extra 30 seconds of digging and clearing sand can get you going on your way even faster.

Be sure to use the Telltale Leashes

Occasionally in soft surfaces your vehicle’s power will push the MAXTRAX right into the ground. Many a (successful) recovery has ended in trying to find a buried set of MAXTRAX. We include our Telltale Leashes because they’ll make your life a lot easier by not only acting as a flag to where they’re at, but by giving you a leash to pull them out of the sand or muck with.

PLACE MAXTRAX AT AN ANGLE

USE FIXING PINS AND LINKING KITS

If you’re in a massive, and I mean massive boghole, our Fixing Pins and Linking Kits can turn your piece of the bush into a MAXTRAX highway! Fixing pins work with our mounting holes to secure your MAXTRAX in place so they don’t have a risk of moving, perfect for a rough creek crossing, or a steep exit or entry to the beach.

Our Linking Kits work by, well, you guessed it — linking your MAXTRAX together to provide a longer patch of grippy orange MAXTRAX, perfect for extended climbs where your MAXTRAX have a risk of being flung off the track.

NO WHEEL SPIN! We’ve said it once, we’ll say it again: NO WHEEL SPIN! There’s a reason we put it on the MAXTRAX! If you spin your tires excessively , you’ll create an immense amount of heat that will melt the MAXTRAX. We’ve designed our engineering-grade nylon material to never break, but we’ve also designed it not to ruin your tyres. By properly placing your MAXTRAX (more on that below), using low range, and taking advantage of the built-in shovel, you’ll simply be able to crawl out at an idle. Don’t worry, we’ve never had a set come back for breakage!

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YOGA, WINE & FOOD Wether you are in downward dog, running along the beach, pop squatting in the gym, out for a paddle on the water or having a leisurely chill day, the active woman wants designer activewear that not only looks amazing, but is versatile, supportive and stays put!

From training professional athletes who want to achieve the dream to the mummy with the tummy she is self conscious of, one Aussie mum and postnatal fitness industry expert has got you covered with Aloki Athletica.

Designs that are are bright and feminine and embodies many years of research into ‘What Women Want’ in the perfect pair of activewear and yoga pants:

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Aloki Athletica yoga pants are available online at www.alokiathletica.com and hug in all the right places to create the self confident, modern woman, in their range of bright, functional, eco-conscious and ethical, hand-made designer yoga pants.

Every woman can feel confident that her yoga pants and activewear is going to stay just where it is and not have to worry about readjusting after every asana, posture or exercise because her yoga pants stay in place! Women finally get to focus on why they are in their yoga pants in the first place - to be active!

Aloki Athletica’s practical and supportive yoga pants echo what women of all ages have been calling for in activewear for years - bold, vivid prints, quick dry eco fabric, figure-hugging cuts that make every woman feel as beautiful as they are, and the knowledge that each product is ethically manufactured, with the environment always in mind.

With an eco-poly fabric, the yoga pants are manufactured using processes that require less water and energy, limiting the impact on the environment.

Aloki Athletica’s range allows woman of all ages and body types to express who they are and empower all women to lead their best lives, no matter what they are doing.

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Tomato Meatballs

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Salsa Verde Lamb

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goldfields, ghost towns and

glorious, gigantic installations

The Western Australian Goldfields expand well past the largest goldfield town of Kalgoorlie.

In fact, it incorporates Esperance in the south of the region and up past Leonora in the north of the region.

Esperance is about 400km south of Kalgoorlie and the closest beach, so it is a very popular holiday destination for hot and bothered Kalgoolians to escape the red dust and the desert.

We spent a weekend in Esperance exploring the incredible beaches with Twilight Beach being a favourite with our girls.

It’s a pretty safe swimming beach and has some beautiful views. Make sure you also check out Pink Lake while you are there and put aside time to explore Cape Le Grand National Park.

Heading north through the Goldfields past Kalgoorlie there is so much to stop and see, including quite a few

ghost towns which the kids think is pretty awesome.

Although I think they were slightly disappointed they didn’t actually see any ghosts.

Broadarrow and Ora Banda are definitely worth the detour.

Broadarrow quite literally is just a pub these days, but was once a thriving mining town. It’s only around 40km out of Kalgoorlie and every wall in the pub is covered with notes from people who have visited.

Just down the road is another deserted mining town,Ora Banda.

There are still some residents in town but a town that once had a school, baker and other services is now essentially just the pub.

Ora Banda, as well as its mining history, also has some more recent history as the site where a Gypsy

Joker bikie was gunned down outside the pub, then owned by WA corrupt cop Don Hancock, who was later killed in Perth in revenge.

There is a monument marking the incident not far from the pub.

Keeping with ghost towns, an absolute must see is Gwalia, which is at Leonora.

Gwalia is about 230km from Kalgoorlie and grew as a town around the Sons of Gwalia mine in 1897.

When the mine closed down in 1963 the population went from 1,200 to 40 and many of the buildings look like people just up and left.

Its an amazing snap shot of time and feels quite eerie when you wander around the structures of the town.

When Gwalia was a new town a young American geologist came to develop the mine.

Herbert Hoover arrived in 1897 and would later become American President.

His original house still stands at the top of the hill and is part of the Gwalia Museum, which is an incredible collection of the history of the town.

Possibly the most incredible part of our trip through the northern Goldfields though was to see the Inside Australia installation on Lake Ballard.

Lake Ballard is just out of Menzies and is a massive salt lake spanning more than 100km.

In 2003, as part of the Perth International Arts Festival, Artist Antony Gormley presented 51 metal figures around the lake.

The figures are locals mainly from around Menzies who have become immortalised when Gormley took a body scan of them and turned them

into metal sculptures.

The effect is amazing! We had plans to camp on the edge of the lake overnight, where there is a free camp, to fully experience the installation but a very wet muddy ground, and an incoming storm meant we had to stay the night in nearby Menzies.

The girls were fascinated by the sculptures and would have spent hours exploring if we could have stayed.

“ Possibly the most incredible part of our trip through the northern Goldfields though was to see the Inside Australia installation on Lake Ballard. �

camping without a hassle

Camp Hire Australia was created to help families, couples and groups go camping! We understand that it’s hard managing work, family and life so we are here to make it easier and get you into the great outdoors more often, or for the first time.

Our job is to help bridge the gap between an average camping experience (or no camping experience) and the best it can be.

We set you up in quality camping equipment so you can get amongst the outdoors without the hassle of having to buy, maintain, and store expensive equipment that you’ll only use once in a blue moon.

Camping is about relaxing, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly, having time with family, friends and sometimes just doing nothing.

What better way to experience this then having everything done for you, camp gear supplied, tent setup so

when you arrive you throw your bag in your tent and start playing a game with the kids, taking a refreshing dip in the water or cracking the top of a coldie, whatever it is for you it will feel so much better without the hassle of setting up camp! Then at the end you will be the envy of your friends when you grab your bag throw it in your car and watch as they pack up their gear.

This is not glamping, it’s camping without the hassle.

sports or corporate group we all need to escape, unwind and rebalance and at Camp Hire Australia we have the gear, locations and package for you.

Based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, we are on the doorstep of some of Australia’s greatest beaches, stunning scenery, and mountains as well as public and private campsites, there is so much to explore.

It’s time to book your next camping holiday with Camp Hire Australia to experience the most relaxing way to camp and create the memories that will last a lifetime.

Go and spend more time with family and friends, turn off the phone and computer and leave behind the hustle and bustle of life as you know it, venture outdoors with the help of Camp Hire Australia. Whether it’s a solo escape, family holiday, school,

Got some of your own gear, no problems, we can supply the extras or the whole kit. And when I say the whole kit I mean tents, beds, chairs, tables, esky’s cooking, dining, lighting, everything you need for your camping trip.

Book your next camping holiday today!

W. camphire.com.au P. 1300 757 229 or 0438 768 988 E. mark@customersolutions.com.au

GARDEN CITY HOLIDAY PARK

BIG4 Toowoomba Garden City Holiday Park is the perfect location to enjoy all there is to see and do in Toowoomba and its surrounds.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy an alfresco lunch or dinner cooked on our free gas barbecues. You could also add seasoning with fresh herbs or fruits from our herb gardens. Or perhaps you may prefer to wander through our park and admire our award winning gardens Big4 Toowoomba have all the information you need to plan a great holiday.

CONTACT US

P. 1800 333 667 W. www.big4toowoombagchp.com.au.

archies footwear With up to 2.2cm of orthotic support, Archies Thong incorporate the same amount of support that you would find from an ‘off the shelf’ orthotic, however with the patented design, they look just like normal thongs.

The support found within Archies Footwear may help to support the foot in a more biomechanically appropriate position thereby easing the stresses and strains that would otherwise be transferred to the musculoskeletal system. As such, the thongs have been extremely popular with many of Australia’s Elite Athletes and leading Health and Fitness Experts.

At Archies Footwear, we know that it’s impossible to adequately cater for all feet with one arch profile, as a result, Archies Arch Support Thong come in a Standard Arch Support model and a High Arch Support model. Having the two arch profiles allows us better cater for your arch type and support needs.

The thongs are made out of an unbelievably comfortable, high quality foam material and really have a “wow” factor for anyone that tries them on.

Archies Thongs are now the choice of thong by many of Australia’s Elite Athletes we supply many of Australia’s

leading Health Practices and Athletic Shoe Stores. One of the features of the thongs that Health Professionals like the most about Archies Thong is the tighter strap and the extremely light weight design which allows more optimal foot function and enables the user to walk with a more natural gait pattern than what they would experience when wearing other thongs.

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Archies Arch Support Thongs are designed by a Physiotherapist from Melbourne, Australia, as an alternative to flat thongs / sandals while providing legitimate orthotic / arch support.

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High or Standard Arch Support . $35 per pair . Post $4.99.

High or Standard Arch Support . $35 per pair . Post $4.99.

Our Favourite Memories

We have so many memories from traveling Australia.

Some of our favourite memories are: MEETING NEW FRIENDS Libby has a new best friend called TayTay. We met in Broome and travelled for around 3 months together.

Tay lives in South Australia and we are planning to spend time together in the school holidays for the rest of our lives.

Libby even wants to live with Tay too.

Layla (me) rates meeting Ella, who is Tay’s sister as a highlight too. We did handstands on the beach, did a lot of reading together, watched sunsets in Broome, played a LOT, swam, walked, fished and basically spent a LOT of time together.

Meeting The Monaghan’s is definitely one of our favourite memories from travelling. They live in Adelaide, we live in Brisbane and we met on the road in Broome.

It was AWESOME and FUNNY how we met. Tegan was following our Instagram

page and Mum followed her back.

Then we saw we were both in Broome and Tegan recognised Dad when we were walking around the caravan park.

We met, we talked and we’ll now be friends forever.

SWEET SHOPS Mum and Dad would let us use money we saved to spend in sweet shops.

There are a LOT of sweet shops in Australia and you can even find them in small towns, not just big cities.

We were allowed to spend usually $5 or $10 on sweets, but it needed to last us a LOOOONNNGGG time, otherwise we would overload on sugar all at once and it would be too much.

We would sometimes spend more than 30 minutes in the shop deciding what to buy.

SEEING SNOW for the first time - We did a detour on the way back to Queensland so we could see snow for the first time. It was the MOST A-M-A-Z-I-N-G thing we have done in a long time. We went to ski school at Mt Selwyn and it didn’t take very long for us to both ski the slopes faster than mum would have liked. We loved doing stuff like this, instead of buying things or souveniers, because we think that the memories are SO much better than things sitting in our cupboards.

CLIMBING CRADLE MOUNTAIN We spent almost 12 hours walking the Cradle Mountain track, which included us going all the way to the Summit.

There was a funny problem that happened that day was the fog and clouds, because it meant that we didn’t see a sign that was to take us to the Summit.

We kept walking some of the overland track, which was awesome, we want to go back and do that long walk one day. Mum and Dad both said that we can do it when we’re older with them.

The funny thing was that we walked for about 90 minutes past the turnoff, then when we finally discovered it, we had to walk all the way back to the turnoff, and then FINALLY up to the Summit climb.

There were no paths on the climb, just rocks and poles and we had to stop at each marker pole to work out where the next one way.

We got to the Summit at about 5pm, ate some chips, took a selfie, then walked all the way back down.

Libby had a sore knee so Dad had to carry her, Mum had to carry Dad and Libby’s backpack and we made it back to the car just before it was dark!! We had the BEST day, even though things didn’t go to plan. Mum even had some sneaky lollies hidden in the bottom of her backpack, she told us about them when we had about 2 hours left to walk. It was just what we needed!! We even saw a baby Tassie Devil on the drive home at night…. Can you believe it?

CHRISTMAS ON THE ROAD IN GERALDTON We usually spend Christmas every year at Nanny and Poppy’s place with all of our family, playing with cousins and swimming in the pool. For the first time EVER, we were going to be away for Christmas.

We were sad and missed our family, but we were VERY excited about spending Christmas with our friends (The Monaghan’s again!!).

We were all in Geraldton, staying in House Sitting houses, which meant we had a POOL. YAY for a POOL at Christmas. It’s fun being in a different place and we liked making a new tradition for our family.

Basically the best thing about travelling Australia is the friends and fun!!

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