February 2014
Australia Day Long Weekend Trip
(ISSUE 400) Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. Reg. No. A – 0006149J FWDV Member www.subaru4wdvic.com.au PO BOX 2456 Mount Waverley VIC. 3149
VOLKS-BARU SUBARU and Volkswagen Specialist Parts and Service Centre
We will smooth out your motoring costs with extremely competitive prices, offering trade discounts to all Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria members on all parts and repairs.
John Bailey 1362 Heatherton Rd Dandenong North 3175 Phone: (03) 9793 5655 Page: 2
INTRODUCTION TO THE SUBARU 4WD CLUB The Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. was originally formed over 30 years ago by an enthusiastic group of Subaru owners. Today the club has expanded to include all Subaru 4WD and AWD vehicles, as well as all other makes of AWD, light 4WD and crossover/soft-roader type vehicles. The club aims to participate in exploration of the Australian countryside without damage to the environment, vehicle or individual. Visitors are most welcome to attend the club’s General Meetings and contact committee members regarding participation in club activities. The club relies on membership fees to offset its running costs, including insurance. Membership fees are payable each year, due on 31 May. Fees for the 2013/14 year were agreed at the general meeting in April 2013 and are as follows: ● Interstate: $105 (Seniors card - $100) ● Single: $115 (Seniors card - $105) ● Joint/family: $135 - (Seniors card - $120). Joining Fee $10 ($20 for Joint/Family) (All annual fees include FWDV affiliation and trip insurance: $45) A trip fee of $15 per adult non-member applies (for insurance purposes) Please contact the membership officer for further information regarding membership, including pro-rata and monthly rates.
GENERAL MEETINGS
South Camberwell Tennis Club 322 Burke Road Glen Iris (Melways 59 H6)
Last Tuesday of each month at 8:00pm sharp (except December)
COMMITTEE Meetings 1st Tuesday each month: 7:30pm Damian Stock president@subaru4wdvic.com.au (President) Jessica Walsh vice-president@subaru4wdvic.com.au (Vice President) Peter Bellis secretary@subaru4wdvic.com.au (Secretary) Bob Marshall treasurer@subaru4wdvic.com.au (Treasurer) Martin Foot events@subaru4wdvic.com.au (OM: Trip & Social) Michael Hartshorne editor@subaru4wdvic.com. au (OM: Editor) Andrew Jantke mship@subaru4wdvic.com.au (OM: Membership) Dale Rebgetz resources@subaru4wdvic.com.au (OM: Resources) Stephen Whittaker venue@subaru4wdvic.com.au (OM: Venue) Doug Greenall (Ordinary Member) Phil Milkins (Ordinary Member)
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT Welcome to the February club magazine and my latest president’s report. For the first time since I became president of FWDV I have two magazine deadlines on the same day. If there is something very similar in my club report and the one that appears in this month’s Trackwatch, you will have to excuse me. After all, there is only so much that this brain can hold onto, especially when the worlds of the club and the association are so close together. As has now become a bit of a tradition, we started the club meeting year with a BBQ before the January meeting. Due to the extreme heat on the day all the smart members took up residence in the airconditioned meeting room while Steve and I tried to cook up enough sausages, hamburgers and onions, on the park BBQ, to satisfy the hungry hoard. Washed down by some icy drinks, brought along by Andrew, everything seemed to go down very well, just in time for us to get the meeting going, almost on time. The attendance at this year’s first meeting was probably a little lower than usual but that may have been due to the extreme heat or the fact that the meeting was held immediately after the Australia Day long weekend. Regardless, I am sure that everyone was happy not having to cook at home in the heat, and instead enjoyed having a chat in the pleasant air-conditioning before the meeting started. Again, there was a healthy contribution to the club’s finances, not just from the BBQ but also from the fines and fun for the Christmas and Australia Day club trips. While I had to excuse myself from the meeting for a short while, to take an urgent phone call, I made it back long enough to hear some of the exploits of the Australia Day weekend trip, which sounded like a great event, as was the Christmas trip, as usual. Unfortunately, due to some personal issues over the long weekend, I was unable to get up to meet everyone at the Saturday night camp, as I had hoped to do, to give the new Forester a run in the bush. After an unsuccessful attempt to get the Forester off-road over the long weekend I thought that there was a good chance of doing so on my own club trip, at the farm. Little was I to know that the conditions at the farm would approach those of Black Saturday with extremely hot north westerly winds, and the threat of fires, putting to bed any chance of taking those attending out for a leisurely drive around the surrounding bush tracks. The best we could do was laze around the farm, trying to stay cool and enjoying the company. On Sunday morning, after the customary bacon and egg brunch, perfectly Page: 4
PRESIDENT’S REPORT cooked by Peter, the Bellis and Foot families decided to leave in order to make sure that they got out of the area before any threatened road closures. It was great having the club down to the farm, even if we did not get to do too much, except eat, drink and chat. After our guests left, and just as we did on the Black Saturday weekend, Angela and I busied ourselves preparing the fire-fighting equipment, this time in case the wind change carried the Hiawatha fires towards the farm. By the time we left, in the early evening, we had fully tested the pump and then left it where it could be activated by our neighbours, if necessary. Fortunately, the fires came no-where near the farm but, after Black Saturday, it was definitely better to be prepared, just in case. Due to the Morwell fires the only way home from the farm for us was via the South Gippsland Highway which, despite some reports of it being closed, was fortunately open all the way home. It was interesting seeing the smoke from the Hiawatha fires, showing the extent to which this fire had spread across the southern section of the Strzelecki Ranges. It was heartening to hear that, apart from the damage to the forest, there was little loss of property due to these fires, which was much better than some others around the state, especially these closer to Melbourne. Watch out for a call from the association’s rural response group for help with the clean up after these fires. For the March long weekend we are planning a trip to Buchan to, unfortunately, commence the relocation of the club shelter to, an as yet unknown new location. Please come along if you want to give the shelter a fitting farewell and to help with, or even watch, the de-construction. The next association general meeting will be held at Tatura on February 22 nd. The guest speaker at the meeting will be Rudi Paoletti, who some of you will remember from his visit to the club a couple of years ago. Rudi will be talking about the Aberfeldy Track Back Road Tour and the work his group of volunteers have done on establishing this great drive. Rudi and our association have agreed to work together to maintain this track, as well as the many walking and driving tracks accessible from it. If you have some spare time on Saturday, consider coming up to Tatura for this meeting. Anyway that’s enough from me for this month. Take care of yourself out there, on the road or in the bush, and if I look forward to seeing you soon. Damian Page: 5
VENUE REPORT FEBRUARY GENERAL MEETING Date: Tuesday 24 February at 8pm The club’s annual photo competition will be on show at this month’s meeting. Come along and see the showcase of our member’s photos from trips over the past two years! Some great entries this year… good luck to everyone who’s entered. Venue: South Camberwell Tennis Club Presentation: The club’s annual Photo Competition. Presenters and meeting highlights to come in 2014: - First Aid - General 4WD and camping products - Club meeting at a Subaru dealership There are door prize giveaways for members at each meeting too. Stephen Whittaker Venue Coordinator
EDITOR’S REPORT A reminder that we are no longer sending out hard copies of the magazine before the general meetings to the majority of members. The exceptions are those who have not registered an email address with the club. Everyone else will receive an electronic link to the magazine on-line and can collect their magazines at the meeting or print them using the files provided in the email. The magazine deadline for next edition is Tuesday 11 March 2014. Send all copy to editor@subaru4wdvic.com.au Thanks Martin (acting editor for February) Page: 6
PHOTO COMPETITION Our photo competition will be on at the February meeting. If you haven’t entered - HURRY! All photos must be entered electronically so please email them to venue@subaru4wdvic.com.au We request all entries to be in a couple of days prior to the February meeting to ensure we can collate the presentation. GET THEM IN THIS WEEKEND! Categories you can enter: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Best portrait photo (photo of a person) Best group photo Best landscape/nature scene Best close-up nature shot (flowers, animals, etc.) Best Subaru action shot Best recovery shot Funniest photo
All photographs submitted must have been taken in the last two years (2012 & 2013) at a club event. Any photographs that have won a prize previously are not eligible. There is a limit of one photo per person, per category (however, family membership allows for each member to submit their “best photo” but they must have taken the photo themselves). So, rifle through your collection of club event photos from the last two years and send them to us. When you send your photos, please include in the description the trip on which they were taken and a title for the photo. Members in attendance at the meeting will be able to vote for the winner in each category - come along, see a display of the club’s events over the last two years and VOTE for the best photos! Stephen Whittaker Venue Coordinator
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT BUCHAN WORKING BEE - LABOUR DAY WEEKEND TRIP 8 – 10 March 2014 Trip Rating: Easy Trip Leaders: Damian Stock, David Wilson Email: president@subaru4wdvic.com.au, dw@subaru4wdvic.com.au Dismantling and removal of the Buchan shelter, as requested by the owners. Camping on-site and (hopefully) time for a day-trip or too. Many hands and vehicles with trailers will be needed. OTWAYS TRIP 22 and 23 March 2014 Trip Rating: Medium, or Otway Fly only - Social Trip Leader: Michael Hartshorne, Email: editor@subaru4wdvic.com.au The trip will start north of Anglesea working our way through the Anglesea Heath Reserve then onto a track written up by Robert Pepper. Lunch will be at Aireys Inlet. Then another loop type track and down to Lorne. From there we will work our way up into the Otway Range and down to Apollo Bay Area. Depending on timing we will either take dirt roads or the bitumen down to Cape Otway for the night. On Sunday will make our way up some tracks to the Otway Fly. There is a $27 charge per person to visit the Fly. For those interested in non 4wding there is a bitumen road to the Otway Fly from Cape Otway. I will book for those interested in a non powered camping site, those wishing to stay in other ac c omm odation pleas e book yo urs elves at:http:// www.bimbipark.com.au After the Fly walk we can either take the bitumen home or take the more fun drive through some more of the Otway Range. Please confirm your attendance by the 15th March. If we only have "bush" type campers we may stay at a non commercial type camping ground. LERDERDERG GORGE TRIP Sat 5 and Sun 6 April 2014 Trip rating: Easy/Medium (note has been downgraded since reconnaissance) Trip leader: Jessica Walsh, email: jw@subaru4wdvic.com.au I am planning to spend the weekend in the Lerderderg State Park and Page: 8
TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT Wombat State Forest. This is a picturesque part of the state, and only a short drive from Melbourne. We will meet in Sunbury on Saturday and then head off to to enter the eastern edge of Lerderderg State Park in the vicinity of Mt Bullengarook. There is a walk of about an hour for those who wish to stretch their legs to a tunnel that the Lerderderg River travels through into. Our first day finishes in Blackwood, at the caravan park. This is where members may wish to leave or join the group if only travelling for one day. Sunday morning will see us heading further west and north as we make our way towards Daylesford. The tracks we are taking wind there way through the Wombat State Forest and there will be opportunities to stop for photographs. I aim to finish in Daylesford by mid-afternoon, just in time for afternoon tea and a stroll for those who choose. The standard of the trip is easy for much of the time, with the occasional medium stretch. Some of the tracks were still closed when I did the pre-trip last month, so the tracks we take may vary from the ones I have inspected, depending on the closures. This is an ideal trip to join us on if you are new to off road driving, as the pace will be relaxed, with the occasional short section to test the driver’s ability. It is worth noting that if there is rain soon before the trip, the difficulty level will increase due to slippery tracks being a bit harder to negotiate than when they are dry. ARKAROOLA/LAKE COONGIE/ MENINDEE LAKES ROUND TRIP Friday 18 – Sunday 27 April 2014 Trip Rating: Medium, but with long stretches of remote country requiring adequate provisions, water and fuel along the Strezlecki Track. Wellprepared vehicles only. Trip Leader: Martin Foot, Email: events@subaru4wdvic.com.au The late Easter break, combined with the Anzac Day long weekend, offers 10 days to explore some country close to but not included on the Simpson Trip, in particular the area between the Flinders Ranges and Lake Frome (including Arkaroola Sanctuary), Lake Coongie near Innamincka and the Menindee Lakes near Broken Hill. Route: From the Flinders Ranges, via west side of Lake Frome, picking up the Strezlecki Track at Mt Hopeless and continuing on to Innaminka, Lake Coongie, Corner Store, Tibooburra, Broken Hill, Menindee Lakes and home. Approx. 3,700 Km. Page: 9
TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT Arkaroola provides the opportunity for various trips: ● the Pinnacles 4WD trip in a special vehicle ($135 group price); ● DIY 4WD tour in other parts of the reserve; ● astronomy tour; ● aerial flights. More information at www.arkaroola.com.au HOWEVER it is in SA school holidays and we should book ahead. OTHER TRIPS Narbethong Cathedral Ranges Woods Point Goldfields
A Picnic at Hanging Rock Melbourne Laneways
We need leaders to run these trips, please contact me. Martin Foot Trip and Social Coordinator Email: events@subaru4wdvic.com.au
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TRIP REPORTS AUSTRALIA DAY LONG WEEKEND TRIP By Jessica Walsh Saturday 25th January On Saturday morning we met in the Coles car park in Healesville at 9.30 for a 10 am departure. Many of the participants were there before 9.30, and we so were able to drive off shortly after 10am. We headed north past Siberia Junction and around Mt Despair. There was a steep section that required careful placement of wheels and a few underbody scrapes were felt and heard. A few vehicles had been up the track since I pretripped it and had thrown a few rocks around. It was quite the challenge, but everyone descended safely. As we were progressing down, a passerby came up to David who was tail -end-Charlie to warn him about the track. I can imagine the look on his face when David told him there were a heap of Subys on their way down already! We followed the bush tracks until we came to that ‘B’ word (bitumen) and at that point Paul headed for home. We carried on for a while until we came to a clearing where we stopped for lunch. Peter inspected his tyre and decided to try to repair it. We took it off the car, and with some soapy water soon identified where the hole was. Peter got to practice his tyre-plugging skills, and the tyre was soon pumped up and as good as new. There were some more bush tracks to follow with another steep track. This one was a little easier than the last one, and again everybody was soon down.
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TRIP REPORTS We drove through Alexandra and Eildon, following along Skyline track where we had afternoon tea overlooking the lake. Half an hour later we turned off the road, down a dubious looking track to our campsite. Even though it was the Australia Day weekend, we had the place to ourselves.
Sunday 26th January We awoke, and Jamie handed out Australian flags for us to fly. Jamie kept the biggest one for himself which he attached to the rear of his Landcruiser It was quite the sight as he drove along leading the convoy for a while. An early start saw us away at 8.30 and into Mansfield an hour later for coffees, fuel and sundry snacks. Much mirth and quotes from the film ‘The Castle’ as we entered Bonnie Doon and we spotted a radar car. 'Beep, beep, beep' crackled the radio. “How much was that”? “Seventy bucks” was the reply, followed by “Just paid for itself”. Once in Bonnie Doon Michael headed for home, as he was not feeling well. Paul also rejoined the group for the day here. We made our way up the bitumen until the turnoff for Mt Sterling where we could get back onto the dirt again. Unfortunately the dirt was accompanied by more dust, so the convoy had to spread itself out quite a bit. We followed the circuit loop until Basin River Track. At this point Rick suggested counting the number of river crossings, to see who would get the correct number. Up Clear Hills track to Craig's hut which was like Bourke St, so we came back down 200 metres to a clearing where we could enjoy lunch and walk up to enjoy the view. Then we split into two groups and the first group headed to the summit of Mt Sterling to give a bit of a gap between vehicles. Page: 12
TRIP REPORTS We regrouped on the summit of Mt Sterling for a group photo, and then the first group was away again. They made it to the bottom only to be informed that Peter and Jean had to stop to check a tyre. Another slow leak to the Bellis' which proved to be a screw in the tread. When we got to camp, Peter took the wheel off and used his recently practiced skills to fix the hole - after first removing the screw with a screwdriver. We said good bye to Paul as he headed home, and then we were nine. We made our way back from telephone box junction and then turned towards Sheepyard flat where we found a big enough space for all of us to fit. Afternoon tea was served by Jean with some jam filled lamingtons. An Australia Day treat. The boys dig a great job of collecting firewood, and as it was set, Rick confounded us with a couple of matches, Josh, Justin and Anthony performed a great magic trick, Jessica recited 'The Man From Snowy River', and Daryl shared some Maltesers.
Monday 27th January We had a slightly more relaxed start on Monday morning, Most of us were ready to go by 9.30, however Justin was still eating his breakfast. David made the decision to pack up around him, and Justin was soon left on his chair as the convoy made out to leave. Apparently he finished breakfast rather quickly when he saw the cars moving off. He was soon back in the car and we were on our way for real. Page: 13
CLUB CA Date
Event
2014 FEB
MAR
Sat 22
Meal and Movie Night
Tues 25
General Meeting
Sat 8 - Mon 10 Mar
Buchan Working Bee, to demolish and remove the shelter
Thurs 13 - Sun 23 Beyond Hotham 2014 Mar “Tag along� 4WD activities based out of Hotham (NOT A S4WDCV TRIP) Sat 22 - Sun 23 Mar
Otways Trip
Sat 5 - Sun 6 April Lerderderg and Wombat State Forest
APR+
Trip Standard
Fri 18 - Sun 27 April
Arkaroola, Lake Coongie/ Menindee Lakes
Fri 18 - Mon 21 April
10th Australian 4WD Gathering (NOT A S4WDCV TRIP)
May/June
Post your Trip Here!
Sign
Vehicle Suitability
Easy Medium
All wheel drive and high range 4WD. Can be Suitable for medium clearance vehicles with d
Difficult Very Difficult
Suitable for medium to high clearance vehicles wit Suitable for high clearance vehicles with dual rang
ALENDAR Location
Standard Contact for further info.
Cost
events@subaru4wdvic.com.au Belgrave
Social
Dale Rebgetz
CSTC
Stephen Whittaker
Buchan
Damian Stock David Wilson
Based from Hotham
www.beyondhotham.com.au
Otway Ranges, meeting near Anglesea
Michael Hartshorne Social (Fly only)
Lerderderg State Park
Jessica Walsh
meeting in Sunbury South Australia/Qld/ NSW
Martin Foot
Dungog, NSW
$600 per vehicle
See website
www.4wdgathering.org.au
low clearance with single range and road tyres. dual range and all terrain or road tyres.
th dual range and all terrain tyres. ge and tyres suitable for the terrain (eg. mud terrain tyres).
See website
TRIP REPORTS We had a steep climb up from camp, and close to the top found a tree over the track. David came forward with his bow-saw and David, Stephen and Jessica made short work of the blockage. It was then down the other side and into Jamieson for a quick morning tea and refuel for those who needed it. We were only on the bitumen for a short while when we were turning onto Mt Terrible Track. The track was not too difficult, and we had a few optional side trips that went over or around each ridge-top. At about 12.30 we halted for lunch in a nice shady spot, still a little way from the peak. Lunch packed up, and it was off to the summit of Mt Terrible. Once we were there, we parked the cars for the obligatory convoy photo-shoot. The afternoon was getting on and so we were heading for home. At one junction there was a final ‘detour’ which led to the top of “a terrible descent”. David and Rick made their way down, however the others felt that discretion was the better part of valour and returned the way they had came. We made our way onto Big River Road and it was soon obvious why the track had been closed the week before. There was quite an area burnt alongside the track, and it looked like the fire crews had done a good job to contain it. Before too long we were at the junction where everyone was to head their separate ways. During the trip there was some discussion about how challenging it would be to do in the reverse direction, so that may well be a future trip. Thanks to everyone who came along for a great trip, and especially to Stephen for helping with the pre-trip. Although why he doesn’t like Enya is beyond me.
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT Attendees: Jessica Walsh & Stephen Whittaker David, Anthony and Justin Wilson Jamie Scott Daryl Lynch Peter and Katie Mynard Rick and Josh Koster Les Scott Peter and Jean Bellis Dale and Jan Rebgetz Paul Saleeba Michael Hartshorne
Pajero Landcruiser Landcruiser Landcruiser Traytop L-Series L-Series Brumby (Suboo) Forester Forester Forester Forester
FOR SALE The club makes this space available free of charge to members wishing to buy or sell items. Please note that the Motor Car Trader Regulations 1998-22(4) require that vehicles for sale advertisements must contain: (a) the cash price of the vehicle and; (b) the registration number if registered or the engine/chassis numbers if unregistered. Contact the club editor to advertise in this space.
Forester Aluminium Bash Plates: made from 6.0mm construction grade aluminium: $300 for club members, $330 for non-members. Fitting can be arranged. . Set of 4 alloy rims from Outback 1997 model, $120.00 ONO Roof console to hold CB + lights and switches for Outback $100.00 Contact: David Wilson, email: dw@subaru4wdvic.com.au Jessica’s Sale: 17" alloy rim to suit the current model Outback. It is fitted with an almost new Kumho 225/60 R17 road tyre that has done about 500km (max). $200 3x 225/60 R17 Yokohama Geolander G012 A/T-S tyres to suit the current Outback/Liberty. Two of them have been driven about 30,000km ($50 ea.) and the other is near new with about 4,000km of use ($100). For more details on any of the above, please email Jessica at jw@subaru4wdvic.com.au Page: 17
RESOURCES We have plenty of resources to sell. We may have many, some or none of the following items so if you are interested in any of these then please come along to the club meeting and I will be very happy to sell them to you. Correct change will be much appreciated. $ Hat Oiled Skin size 55
20.00
Hat Safari
20.00
size 59
Short sleeve blue chambray shirt with logo Size 14
40.00
New Style Red Polo Shirts (M, L, XL, 2XL)
30.00
New Style Vest
60.00
Blue Polo Shirt
15.00
Large Sew on Badges
3.50
Small Sew on Badges
2.00
Fuel Filter Plastic x 45deg.
7.00
Fuel Filter Plastic x 90deg.
7.00
Fuel Filter Plastic x Straight
5.00
eFlare HZ510 Red with Base
66.00
CV Boot Clamps Large & Small
4.00
CV Joint Grease
6.00
Wheel Nuts [Set of 4]
1.60
MSP Engine Formulation (oil additive)
50.00
For substantial discounts on all general automotive spare parts, oils, filters, shocks, etc., please see me for details. Thanks, Dale Rebgetz Resources Officer, email: resources@subaru4wdvic.com.au Page: 18
CLUB MEETING MINUTES A general meeting of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc was held on Tuesday, 28th January 2014 at the South Camberwell Tennis Club starting at 8:06pm. It was preceded by a barbeque tea; the chefs being Damian Stock and Stephen Whittaker. 1. Present Andrew Jantke, Lisa Jantke, Ruth Marshall, Bob Marshall, Phil Milkins, Elaine Milkins, Bev Davison, Jamie Scott, Les Scott, Martin Foot, Damial Stock, Peter Bellis, Jean Bellis, Stephen Whittaker, Paul Saleeba, Doug Greenall, Peter Mynard, Katie Mynard, David Wilson, Rick Koster, Dale Rebgetz. 2. Apologies Elaine Hyde, Dorothy Greiveson 3. Welcome A welcome was extended to all members and visitors. 4. Minutes of the Previous General Meeting 4.1 The minutes of the November 2013 General Meeting were accepted without amendment after being moved by Bob Marshall and seconded by Stephen Whittaker. 4.2 There was no business arising from the minutes. 5. Correspondence 5.1 In ● ● ● ● ● 5.2 Out ● 6. Reports
Magazines from various 4WD clubs. Man Brands – advertising opportunity with the club Advertising material – Showboards 4WD Victoria Sale request regarding Subara Impreza None
6.1 Resources As per the magazine. 6.2 Editor The January magazine was the largest for some time – 40 pages. Page: 19
CLUB MEETING MINUTES Next month’s should be a bumper issue due to the number of trips run over the past two months. 6.3 Trip and Social Details elsewhere in the magazine. 6.4 Venue Details elsewhere in the magazine. Thank to those who turned up early for the barbeque. collected - $108.05)
(Funds
6.5 Membership Received an enquiry from a person recently moved to Victoria from Western Australia. Name tags have been ordered. 6.6 Treasurer Current cashbook balance is $5,026.67 Major receipts for the past two months includes advertising revenue $220, and trip visitor fees $75. Major payments include magazine costs $330, website maintenance $90, Christmas party drinks $55 and trophy engraving $66. 6.7 Secretary: Nothing to report. 6.8 Vice-President None submitted as she is currently on her way to Europe for a 4week holiday. 6.9 President 4WD Victoria ● CEO … [departed] in December and the “Project and Events” manager is now acting CEO. ● The board has had some new members join it in the last month or two. ● New office administrator started today. It is encouraging to see members of the club running and participating in so many club trips. Consequently, 2014 is looking good for the club. Sand flags – will be standardised in South Australia (certain height and size). Page: 20
CLUB MEETING MINUTES 7. General Business 7.1 Set of 16 inch rims and tyres for a Subaru Forester are available for sale. 7.2 Steve elaborated on his recent buckled wheel rims / smashed rear lamp saga. 7.3 Martin elaborated on the sequel to damage to his carrier bar on the Christmas trip. Courtesy Roof Carrier Systems in Camberwell, a new locking mechanism was installed free of charge. 8. Fines and Fun 8.1 Nametags Peter Mynard, Katie Mynard, Dale Rebgetz, Jamie Scott, Les Scott, Bev Davidson. 8.2 Last to Meeting: Rick Koster 8.3 Trips Christmas Trip ● David – not calling Les before the trip. ● Martin – morning coffee cup was still on the bullbar when about to tackle the difficult section in the Mount Margaret track. ● Stephen – tyre puncture on Mount Margaret track. ● Martin – being pulled off a rock on which he was stuck. ● David – for showing lack of parental concern, whilst descending Billy Goat Track, to Justin who had just lost a front tooth and had blood going everywhere. ● Martin – for taking a wrong turn and going 5 kilometres down the track. Around Eildon Trip ● Paul – lost a towbar lug mount. ● Peter – flat tyre. ● Peter and Jean – getting stuck on river crossing #6. ● Peter – second flat tyre (other rear tyre) due to a tack screw. ● David – for exercising parental authority by driving off and leaving his youngest son behind who was still slowly eating his breakfast. ● Jessica – having a “foot long” Subway roll for lunch at Craig’s hut. ● Stephen – for complaining about Jessica’s choice of music (Enya and Brittney Spears). Page: 21
CLUB MEETING MINUTES ● Stephen – for not having his own vehicle on the trip. ● Stephen – for leaving his shorts behind. 8.4 Total fines collected - $11.05. 9. Meeting closed at 9:57pm and was followed by supper. 10. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, 25th February 2014 commencing at 8pm.
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES Minutes of the meeting of the committee of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc held on Tuesday 4th February 2014 at the home of Martin Foot starting at 7:30pm. 1. Present Martin Foot, Bob Marshall, Michael Hartshorne, Damian Stock, Stephen Whittaker, Doug Greenall, Dale Rebgetz, Peter Bellis. 2. Apologies Phil Milkins, Jessica Walsh. 3. Absent Andrew Jantke. 4. Quorum A quorum was achieved with 8 committee members present. 5. Minutes of the Previous Meeting 5.1. Minutes of the December 2013 committee meeting were accepted without amendment. 5.2. Business Arising from the Minutes and Outstanding Actions • Pre-2003 Club Website – Martin will continue to follow up with Mark Tyssen. • Club brochure – has been updated, for review during general business. • Distribution lists – to be discussed under membership report. Page: 22
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES • • • • • • • • •
Buchan shelter – to be discussed in general business. Membership expiry – need to ensure that membership renewal form is sent out each March. Delegate’s nomination form – Peter to complete. Membership cards – Damian will follow up with 4WD Victoria. Subaru Docklands 4WD driver training – Damian to follow up. Chocolate Drive – will occur in March 2014. 30th Birthday panorama photograph – Damian to send to Stephen. Club perpetual calendar – Peter to forward current version to Jessica. Usage of Buchan – sending of a letter of appreciation is deferred until outstanding issues resolved.
6. Correspondence 6.1. In • •
4WD Victoria – Regional meeting at Tatura. State Library of Victoria – request for copies of various past annual reports.
6.2. Out •
None.
7. Reports 7.1. Resources •
.
7.2. Trip and Social • • • • •
Please see elsewhere in the magazine for details about up-coming club trips and events. Removal of shelter at Buchan. Was discussed at length with various options put on the table. Various committee members to action / investigate further. Michael pre-tripped the Otway trip in a Jeep (fine at the next club meeting). Easter trip to Lake Coongie has 6 vehicles / 10 people attending so far.
7.3. Venue Page: 23
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES • • •
Please see elsewhere in the magazine about future club meetings. The January pre-meeting barbecue was a great success. The photographic competition categories will be re-advised to members via email.
7.4. Membership • •
A former member is applying to rejoin the club. An abbreviated up-to-date membership listing will be circulated to all members with the February magazine.
7.5. Editor •
February magazine will be put together in the next week due to Michael being on leave when the magazine is usually produced.
7.6. Treasurer •
Current cashbook balance is $5,149.77.
7.7. Secretary •
Nothing to report.
7.8. Vice-President •
No report was submitted (something to do with Jessica being on holidays overseas).
7.9. President • • • • •
4WD Victoria will be resurrecting “e-News”, a monthly electronic newsletter to 4WD members. Will get some more information on the Aberfeldie historic tracks support. Some rural recovery support may be required in the Grampians and Big Desert area in the next month or two. Camping fees – at this stage it will be applied only to campsites that have facilities provided. Volunteer work – any voluntary work done by club members on trips, etc, need to be noted and the information forwarded to 4WD Victoria (such information is consolidated and reported to the Victorian State Government). Such voluntary work needs to become part of the club’s culture.
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COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 8. General Business 8.1. Club Website Maintenance • •
•
The club website is missing some basics – up-to-date trip reports, photographs, etc. Proving to be a bit of a challenge to bring back up to date since the trojan attack. This is partially due to the team not having a full understanding of Joomla 2.5. Website needs to be regularly updated – weekly or fortnightly basis.
8.2. Club Brochure •
It needs to be re-created as the draft stored on the Vista Print website was deleted after 60 days.
8.3. Club Shirts •
Dale will be communicating with recent new members regarding the subsidised club shirt.
8.4. Visitor Fees •
Does the club need to charge the $15 4WD Victoria for visitors to club social trips – such as the club Christmas party?
8.5. Man Brands Advertising •
Received a letter seeking the club’s involvement in a survey for a possible promotional activity.
9. Next Meeting will be held on Tuesday, 4th March 2014 at 7:30pm at the home of Dale Rebgetz. 10. Meeting closed at 10:50pm.
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E NEWS February 2014 WELCOME It has been some time since e news was last posted around our membership and we are pleased to announce that this means of communication with our members and friends is again up and running. So welcome to 2014 still some hot hot weather to come so remember to be prepared and with that you can all get the fire ready app for your mobile and better still you can check the association website for updates like: For bushfire updates: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Via www.cfa.vic.gov.au. Department of Environment and Primary Industries www.depi.vic.gov.au Tune to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV. Call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) on freecall 1800 240 667. Deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment can contact VBIL via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677. Download the FireReady App or follow CFA on Twitter or Facebook. Road closures: check VicRoads website.
For more information please contact 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au. We will publish advice as it is received from Parks Victoria as a separate bulletin as they are posted. Our own Rural Response Group has been activated and we currently have Dick Gill, Wimmera 4X4 Club and John Tomlinson, Nissan 4X4 Club acting as coordinators alongside Brian Carr from Blaze Aid, operating out of the Laharum Oval, we are asking anyone who is able to assist to contact the office so we can give relevant details to you. SOME CHANGES AT FWDV We advise that at the office the Board has begun the process of restructure as a result of budgetary constraints, Mr Russell Sturzaker has ... [departed] and Mr Wayne Hevey has been appointed acting General Manager. We think it important to acknowledge the work done by Russell and to thank him for his efforts in managing the Association over his time as CEO. It is unfortunate that Page: 26
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VICTORIA NEWS the Association had to restructure but having regard to the membership and our business activities it was important for the Board to make these decisions. As a result Wayne Hevey has been appointed acting General Manager as the Board goes about its restructure program. You will all know Wayne as our programs and events manager and we welcome him to the position. Wayne has developed significant relationships with Parks Victoria and DEPI staff and with our club members and we look forward to him assisting the Board in his new role. Another change has been the appointment of Ms Karen Somers as office administrator, a full time position. We don’t have enough room to tell you all of her skills and qualifications some of which include Diploma of Business, Diploma of Management as well as Cert 4 TAA, Cert 4 in driver training Cert 3 Transport and Distribution. We welcome Karen to the Association and we look forward to exciting developments in the office area. EVENTS [some past events deleted … Ed.] CARAVAN AND CAMPING SHOW AT CAULFIELD This year your Association will be promoting the Murray River and the River Red Gum drive at show on the NSW Parks and Wildlife and Parks Victoria stand at the Caulfield Caravan and Camping show from Thursday 6th March through to Tuesday 11th. We are looking to promote the new River Red Gum Icon Drive, which has recently been developed as the newest Icon Drive in our state. GRANT APPLICATIONS There have been a number of enquiries about how to apply and who should apply for grants with Parks Victoria and other agencies. Grants for special projects for clubs are available for a range of issues in the small grants section. Get online, have a chat to your favourite park ranger and have a go. FIRES Well this last weekend [8, 9 Feb … Ed.] has not been fun at all with high temperatures and fires on Sunday everywhere. For those clubs planning trips be aware please how these fires are having an impact on touring capabilities refer to item above. Page: 27