September 2016 (Issue 429)
Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. Reg. No. A – 0006149J / FWDV Member PO BOX 2456 Mount Waverley VIC 3149
www.subaru4wdvic.com.au
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
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C ON T E N T S Intro 4 Committee 5 From The President 6 Upcoming 7 Next Meeting – Tuesday 27th September 7 Trips and Social Events 8 Long Term Future Planning 11 Community Report 12 Trip and Recovery Gear 13 Trip Reports 14 Simpson Desert Trip July-August 2016 14 Trip Summary 22 11th Australian 4WD Gathering 26 Snow trip to Tomahawk Hut & home via Lake Eildon 30 Buy and Sell 35 Member Items for Sale 35 Club Resources 37 Minutes 40 Editor Notes 44
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INTRO The Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. was originally formed 40 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 the 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 2016/17 year were agreed at the general meeting in April 2015 and are as follows:
Member rates: Single: $120 (Seniors card - $110) Joint/family: $140 - (Seniors card - $125). One off joining fee of $10 ($20 for Joint/Family) also applies All annual fees include FWDV affiliation and trip insurance: $48
Non-member trip fee: A trip fee of $15 per adult non-member applies (for insurance purposes)
Please contact the membership officer for further enquiries. Email: mship@subaru4wdvic.com.au
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COMMITTEE
Notice to Members As a result of the elections at the Annual General Meeting held in August 2016, the following members were elected to the club’s committee: Dale Rebgetz Duncan McCrae Peter Bellis Bob Marshall Dan Conlon Meredith Dale Edith Fullalove Lee Wegner
-
President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Ordinary member Ordinary member Ordinary member Ordinary member
As the AGM determined that the number of ordinary members on the committee should be six, two vacancies existed at the end of the AGM. At the subsequent committee meeting held in September 2016, the following members were appointed to the committee under rule 57a of the club’s constitution to fill the two outstanding ordinary member vacancies: Jamie Scott Michael Dale Peter Bellis Club Secretary
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F R OM T HE P RE SI DE N T President’s Report: September Magazine Draws breath, stares at big shoes, wonders what happened … Welcome from your new President. Last month’s club meeting was significant for many of you because it marked the end of a year for the current committee, and the beginning of a year for the newly-elected committee. Leaving the committee are our President Stephen Whittaker, and our Events/Social Coordinator, Jean Bellis, both of whom receive my whole-hearted thanks. Stephen has been on the committee for four years, the first two as Venue Coordinator, and the second two as President. During that period and particularly during his presidency he has helped transform the club to what you see today – vibrant, friendly, and growing. His own President’s Report in the August magazine modestly details his significant achievements. He has left some very big shoes for me to fill. Jean Bellis from a timid beginning two years ago has grown enormously in confidence and become a leader in her own right in her role on the committee. Anybody who has attended a club meeting will have noticed the slide show with trip notices and photos; that’s Jean’s work. Have you been a trip leader recently? You will have been presented an ever-improving trip leader’s pack – a great assistance to both new and experienced trip leaders; that’s Jean’s work. So to both Stephen and Jean I say thank you for your contribution to making this club the great club it is today. Hopefully at some time in the future we may see you both back on the committee. On our new committee I welcome two first-timers – Lee Wegner and Edith Fullalove. Both are relatively new to the club, something which I find very encouraging – new members who find the club is offering sufficient value to them that they wish to contribute to maintaining (and hopefully growing) that value. Is that sentence too much of a mouth full? If so, let me summarise it in one word: Thanks! Finally, congratulations to Duncan for stepping up to be Vice-president – and having to chair the first meeting of the new committee (since your new president was inconveniently in hospital at the time). This committee is our committee, members volunteering their time to help the club meet our needs. Do you have an idea, a suggestion, or perhaps you have skills that may be of value to the club? Don’t be shy, talk to a committee member. The more we work together, the stronger we become as a club. This month sees only two events, both social. The first was organised by Lee Wegner – a tour of the Degas Exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria. By all reports it was a great tour; I am sorry I was not able to attend myself.
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However, the Event for this month (and this year) is undoubtedly our 40th Anniversary Celebration event in Echuca on the last weekend of this month (probably past tense by the time you read this). There has been a lot of work putting this together, headed up by Dave Wilson and ably assisted by Stephen Whittaker and many others. I have not personally been involved so I don’t know exactly who has done what, but I do know that a lot of effort by a number of people has gone into creating what is going to be one fantastic event. Thank you all; I am looking forward to it. See you there. Dale Rebgetz President.
UPCOMING Next Meeting – Tuesday 27th September Date: Tuesday 27th September Venue: South Camberwell Tennis Club,332 Burke Road, Glen Iris This Month we have Mike Dale doing a presentation of photos from the recent Simpson Desert Trip. Door Prize: Come along to win a door prize at this month’s meeting and have a cuppa and scones for super afterwards. Don't forget October’s Meeting is at the Ringwood Trade Centre.
Club Awards – Advance Warning So at the Christmas Party (as is tradition) we will be presenting our annual Club Awards. These are a way of recognising those who have contributed to our club in a very positive way in the past year – particularly with the Clubman and Clubwoman Awards. There are also the other, rather entertaining, awards; including: Burnt Billy – most humiliating campfire cooking or lighting disaster Piggy Bank – individual who received the most number of fines Silver Socket – the most well maintained vehicle Bent Valve – mechanical breakdown on trips or vehicle most worthy of retirement Jacked Up – most number of flat tyres or most impressive puncture Bogger – vehicle stuck most often Think about the various incidents and amusing situations which have occurred in the last year and nominate away! You’ll be getting a nomination form sometime in the future.
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Photo Competition – Advance Warning Our photo competition will once again be held at our February meeting this year. Categories: Best Portrait (photo of a person) Best group photo Best landscape/nature scene Best close-up nature shot (Flower, animal, etc.) Best Subaru action shot Funniest photo To don’t forget to keep that camera handy!!! All photographs submitted must have been taken within the last two years, taken by the person entering the photo, and taken at a club event. There is a limit of one photo per person, per category. Any photographs that have won a prize previously are NOT ELIGIBLE. Members in attendance at the February meeting will be able to vote for the best photos. Venue Coordinator Meredith Dale
Trips and Social Events We have a variety of trips coming up! With that we’d also like to remind you that if you want to get your name down on the list for a trip but maybe can’t make it to the meeting you are always welcome to contact the trip leader directly. As always, if you know a great location that you would love to lead a trip to (or even if you just want to suggest it) let us know, we’re always on the lookout for the next adventure!! Put up the suggestion and someone else might run it Put up the suggestion and ask for someone else who might want to co-lead it with you. You might want it run it yourself and if it is your first time we will provide you with a trip mentor.
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Buckland Valley When: Friday 30th September to Sunday 2nd October (AFL Long Weekend) Trip leader: Duncan McCrae | events@subaru4wdvic.com.au This will be a standing camp with day trips and just come and relax for the weekend.
Maldon Navigation Run TRIP HAS REACHED ITS CONVOY LIMIT When: Saturday 15th October (optional Sunday 16 October) Trip Leaders: Martin Foot and Dorothy Greiveson | mship@subaru4wdvic.com.au
Trip Standard: Social and Easy ● (2WD vehicles with reasonable clearance will be ok but there will be some dirt back roads) Navigation Run will be in and around Maldon, Australia’s First Notable town, situated in the Goldfields region of central Victoria near Castlemaine. This is a repeat of a previous run several years ago. However, the route will be updated to take in new sites and challenges. The trip can be done as a day trip (Maldon is just under 2 hours from Melbourne). For those wishing to stay over, limited accommodation is available at Martin and Dot’s miner’s cottage (please ask, first in best dressed) or there is accommodation in town if you prefer. There are a variety of local attractions including mine tours, wineries, the Tourist Railway, collectable shops, and the Mt Tarrengower Hill climb for classic cars is also on the Sunday.
Melbourne Laneways Walk THIS TRIP IS FULL BUT BEV WILL RUN ANOTHER ONE IF PEOPLE ARE INTERESTED SO STILL PUT YOUR NAME ON THE LIST. When: Saturday 22nd October Trip leaders: Bev Davison & Jean Bellis | events@subaru4wdvic.com.au
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Standard: Social Trip Limit: 10 people (but if there is enough interest Bev will run another walk at a later date). We will meet in Fed Square at 1pm and do about a 2 hour walk and finish with Coffee and cake somewhere. Those who wish may like to meet up for a quick lunch before we start. Bev is happy to tailor the walk to the interests of the people in the group i.e. checking out laneway graffiti art, chocolate shops etc.
Robe TRIP HAS REACHED ITS CONVOY LIMIT When: 29th Oct to 1st November Where: Robe, SA Trip Rating: Medium ■ to difficult ♦ Convoy Limit: 12 vehicles Trip Leaders: Lee Wegner | Duncan McCrae | events@subaru4wdvic.com.au Vehicles will need to modify (i.e.: lifted) Standing Camp with drop toilets Cost $14 per campsite. Requirements: Sandflag, tyre pressure gauge, air compressor, sand recovery gear.
Marysville When: Saturday 12th November 2016 with the option of camping overnight and doing a walk to Stephenson’s Falls the next day. Trip leader: Mike Dale | 0428 488 502 | resources@subaru4wdvic.com.au Trip Standard: TBA More Details to come.
Trivia Night The club have been attending this event for several years and have been the winning table or runner up on several occasions. This event is held at the Church that Peter and Jean attend and each year we have borrowed from the church all the chairs, tables, crockery and cutlery that have been used for Christmas in July at no cost. So as well as being a fun night it has been a way to say thank you for the use of all
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this equipment. When: Saturday 12th November 2016 starting at 7pm
Trip Standard: Social Trip Leader: Jean Bellis | events@subaru4wdvic.com.au Cost: $20 Where: St Stephen's Anglican Church, 2 Warruga Avenue, Bayswater (Enter the carpark from Phyllis St) Details: Supper and Tea & Coffee Provided BYO drinks, glasses and nibbles. I will need to know final numbers by the General Meeting on 25th October.
Club Christmas Breakup. Our Annual Christmas BBQ and Awards Day will be held on Sunday 27th November. The venue is still to be decided so if you have any suggestions email events@subaru4wdvic.com.au
Long Term Future Planning 2017
Central Australia – Touring Trip Kangaroo Island - March Kosciusko to Melbourne 20-28th May – Stephen Whittaker Blue Mountains – 25th Oct to 7th Nov - Stephen Whittaker
2018
Tasmania – Hobart and the SE for 2 weeks in March – Jessica Walsh Fraser Island
2019
Canning Stock Route 5-week trip Simpson Desert – re-enactment of the 40th anniversary of the Club’s 1974 crossing from Macumba Station to Purine Bore
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Social Events We are starting to plan some social events as well. A social trip with a hot spud lunch at a bush location. Bike Ride to Warburton Navigation run in the Riddles Creek area
Trip and Social Contacts • •
•
Trip Coordinator: Mike Dale Social Coordinator: Lee Wegner
events@subaru4wdvic.com.au
COMMUNITY REPORT
At the last committee meeting as already mentioned elsewhere in the magazine we appointed new members and new roles. One of which was the community liaison member who deals with the club’s community engagement. So far so good it seems for Jamie. Report: “Just a week in and working on it, nothing to report ha” – Jamie
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TRIP AND RECOVERY GEAR The aim of all Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. trips is to have an enjoyable experience in the bush, increasing 4WD’ing skills and experience, whilst maintaining the highest regard for the safety of individuals, the vehicle and the environment. As a driver you have ultimate responsibility for the safety of your passengers and vehicle. It is the responsibility of any participating driver to contact individual trip leaders for clarification of individual trip requirements and standards. Financial members are encouraged to participate in as many trips as possible to increase confidence and experience. Visitors are welcome subject to the payment of the appropriate levy to cover insurance, but after two visits, should consider membership. Non-financial members are not covered by insurance and may not participate until payment is received. Individual drivers with concerns or queries regarding their vehicle and the trip standard should contact relevant trip leaders. The Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. recommends that each vehicle carry the following items or equipment on every trip: 1.
Personal details form as
8.
specified by FWDV, copy to Trip Leader 2.
Emergency Supplies
(minimum 3.2t)
clothing)
Rated snatch strap Recovery Points, Front & Rear; plus, optional bridle
10. Sufficient Fuel, Oil and Water for the trip and delays 11. A Tyre Pressure Gauge;
strap, according to vehicle
Compressor (according to the
design;
trip)
UHF (477Mhz) Channel 16 CB
12. An Axe, Bow or Chain saw;
Radio. Ideally in car but hand
13. A Sturdy Shovel (collapsible
held are ok provided sufficient battery(s) to last the trip.
7.
9.
(matches, food, water and
4.
6.
equivalent
Two rated D- Shackles
3.
5.
Jack and wheel Brace, or
shovels are no good) 14. Spare Parts (appropriate to the nature of the trip)
Fire Extinguisher, accessible
15. A Tool Kit
to the driver
16. Personal First Aid Kit
Spare Tyre (full size)
17. The Vehicle Manual
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Any vehicle not carrying at least the first five (5) items of equipment should contact the individual Trip Leader before leaving. Any Club member unsure about any of the items of equipment listed above are advised to contact the Trip and Social Coordinator or the Trip Leader concerned. All Trip Leaders carry a complete First Aid Kit in case of emergency. All non-emergency medical needs are expected to be meet by individuals own medical supplies.
TRIP REPORTS Simpson Desert Trip July-August 2016 By Sir Michael Dale Part 2 Wednesday 27th of July: awoke to a slightly warmer morning (-1oC) and headed east along Rig Road. The dunes were good going. There were some long flat sections which had very few corrugations but some undulations in the track kept the speed down. With the sun low in the sky and shadows on the track there was a slight foreboding sense of isolation. There were a few dingos to be seen along the way. Morning tea was had at Walkandi junction. The tracks to the old oil wells (at this junction) had been closed for a while by the looks of them. We then headed north along Erabena Track. The next stop was the Lone Gum. This is a box eucalypt tree that is normally found in clay soils near waterways. It has survived for a considerable length of time in its current place and there are now other trees which have sprouted up from seedlings.
The Lone Gum After a wiggle in the road we are back on the Rig Road heading east. We travelled for a while and stopped at a small salt pan for a break and some photos. We continued on until we hit a pair of salt lakes. We stopped here for lunch. A very scenic place with views overlooking one of the lakes. After lunch we headed around the southern end of the lakes and then we turned north skirting around the eastern side of the lakes. We turned left into Knoll Track. This was a pleasant drive over a sandy undulating path. We turned left into WAA Line as we had been told there was water in the lakes that the track crosses. The approach to the lakes had scenic views overlooking the large expanse of the salt pans. We descended down to the first lake and we were able to cross successfully. There was water to the north, but the track was dry and firm. We crossed a small island and made our way to the second lake. We were confronted with a large expanse of water with the smell of salt in the air, - we had reached the beach. One of the driest places in Australia and it was almost impossible to differentiate between a coastal inlet and the desert. The only give away was a slow moving tumble weed that was in the water about 20 metres from the shore.
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The lake blocking the WAA Line We left the lake and made our way back to Knolls Track. The radio came alive with talk. First there was a convey travelling behind us, but in the same direction. We suggested to them that the lake was definitely worth a look, so they headed off down there. Then we met the Landrover Club of Queensland coming the opposite way. They were looking to go down the WAA Line, but we told them it was impassable. They asked about the Rig Road and we told them that was good. We also suggested they have a look at the lake. They indicated they were going to camp out there as they were in the process of looking for a camp site. Then an aeroplane (which was over the French Line) was asking various questions about the landing strip at Poeppel Corner. It turns out the pilot was Dick Smith and the passenger was Macca (ABC - Australia all over). It was a bizarre conversation as we could hear the plane but not the cars. It eventually settled down and we got back to enjoying the track. It twisted and turned as it climbed and descended around the dunes. A very interesting and fun section of track. Camp was on a small clay pan 50 metres from the track. The distance travelled that day was 129km.
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Thursday 28th of July: a brisk morning again (-2.5oC), with a brilliant clear sky. Onto the twisting and turning Knolls track. Soon the Approdinna Attica Knolls came in sight. We drove to the car park and enjoyed a walk to the top. There was water in the nearby lake and a carpet of yellow wild flowers on the surrounding plains. Back onto Knolls Track and heading north again. On the radio we heard a group heading south along Rig Road. As that seemed unlikely (any north-south section of the Rig Road was a long way away) we assumed they were confused with Knoll Track. They were and we soon came across them. Later on we hypothesized that the source of their confusion was that they were using the wrong map. Of the three maps provided in the Desert Parks Pass, the Outback map does not have Knolls Track marked on it, but does indicate Rig Road at the far southern end. They should have been using the Eastern map which was the higher resolution map and had all the tracks marked clearly. We finally made it to the French Line. We immediately came across a fellow traveller. Morning tea was had in small side area. The campers of the previous night had left their fire smouldering. The French Line was in general slow going. Wide spaced corrugations kept the speed down and the climb up the dunes was generally pretty rough. We encountered two more groups shortly after morning tea. There were some lovely views of salt lakes. One of them had water in it off to the south and there were a couple of dust devils to be seen. Lunch was at Poeppel Corner where we had a group photo with people standing in various states. We made our way north, assisted by an easy run along a salt plain, to the QAA Line. We passed a couple more groups along the way. Compared to the first day in the desert, it was a regular freeway. Camp was made on a clay pan between dunes. The distance travelled that day was 103km.
Friday 29th of July: the desert saved its best for last. A very brisk morning (approximately -3oC), with a clear sky. The sun rose over the dune and there was instant heat. Despite the temperature, we were ready early. It was Peter's turn to lead the troops this day and we headed off eastward along the QAA Line.
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The second dune provided the first challenge of the day. There was a group camped at the bottom of the dune and they must have heard the roar of the boxer engine as when we crested the dune they were all down the bottom cheering. We passed a lone traveller along the way. Progress was good as the track was in pretty good condition. Morning tea was under a tree between dunes, and the group that had been camped near us trundled on past. They were all Prados. Soon the flora changed significantly and there were fields of eucalypts. We stopped at the swamp just before Eyre Creek to take some photos of flowers and another single car approached us. Our cars were blocking the track and there was a flurry of activity to get them out of the way. Lunch was had on the dry bed of Eyre Creek. After lunch we continued along the QAA Line. We passed dune after dune and there were many and varied wild flowers to look at. We crested a dune and suddenly before us was fields of thick wild flowers. They continued over each dune and just when we thought we had seen the best of the Simpson, it showed us just what it had kept for us. We peaked over one rise and there were flowers as far as the eyes could see. We drove off that dune and down onto the plain where the track dropped below the general ground level and the flowers were almost at eye level. The type of flowers changed as we drove along. It started with a dominant display of brilliant yellow, and then some white varieties started to appear and in the end they dominated with interspersed yellow flowers. The white ones, Wild Stock, were very fragrant en masse. We made our way over the penultimate dune and there was Big Red. Peter got bogged on the way down (probably in the rush to get to Big Red). Some aired down a little more and we made our way to the base. Peter had first crack and after a couple of failed attempts got up on slightly easier trail. Meredith chose a medium track and zoomed straight up. Kadin followed, and Dale ascended a difficult track after a couple of attempts. Mike had a few goes on some medium tracks, but couldn't crack it. Then when reversing down from a failed attempt his roof rack slid off his car landing upside down, cracking the roof pod and breaking the sand flag. Ouch! A bit of dune side repairs ensued and he limped off with his tail between his legs up a slightly easier track. Then Janelle got in and had a go and nailed it in one. After that it was a group photo on top and then down the bottom to air up. Note that it was only the ladies who got up Big Red on the first attempt and there was much (and continued) gloating over that.
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Wild flowers as far as you could see
Big Red sand dune
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A quick trip into Birdsville which provided much needed showers for everyone. Dinner was at the pub that night. The distance travelled that day was 121km, with 645km travelled all up since Mount Dare.
Saturday 30th of July: the second rest day of the trip and another sleep in. We ate breakfast at the bakery. Mike pulled his roof racks off just to check and refixed them to the roof. The rear struts were also checked, which meant pulling the fridge and drawers out. With access to the internet again, people checked their email and caught up with other first world problems (i.e. Facebook). Peter did a bit of work on his car. We had a drive out to the Waddi trees and the rock art. The rock art was literally people using gibbers to make letters and words on the side of some hills. We did ours - subaru club vic. We topped up with water and petrol in Birdsville. Kadin spent a fair portion of the day in the pub playing the piano.
The Subaru Club’s Rock Art
Sunday 31st of July: Dale nominated Mike as trip leader as he wanted to explore around Innaminka. It was an earlier start for some as breakfast at the bakery beckoned. Some last minute shopping and then photos at the hotel.
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The Diamantina River had a fair bit of water, but it didn't look like it was flowing. A big muddy brown puddle. The first stop was the Burke and Wills tree. There was a tree but we believe it was symbolic as the evidence that they passed this way was the fact that Wills had Waddi seeds in his diary (the Waddi tree is indigenous to this area). We passed the race track and on to the Birdsville Developmental Road. There was zero wind and the dust was horrendous. We were following the group of Prados (that we came across a couple of days ago) who were travelling slower than us, and with the dust we were well spread out. Given the fantastic condition of the road, it was slow progress and a little frustrating. A quick toilet stop at Cuppa Creek (a roadside stop with facilities). A bit further on we turned right into Cordillo Road. A lot of work had been done on this road. It was hard packed and free of corrugations. A bit slippery on the white rock and as dusty as a well-used feather duster. There were fantastic views of Shallow Lake to our right and Moonda Lake to our left. Once we hit the SA border the road changed. It was a natural rock road surface with small gibbers. Still in pretty good condition, but we did drop our speed a little. Morning tea was at the ruins of Cadelga Homestead. The waterhole had significant water in it, but the creek crossing was dry. The lunch stop was at the Cordillo Downs shearing shed. We had a look around and a good break. We hit the road again and turned off towards Arrabury. The road was generally in good condition, but it did drag on for a bit. There were some stops along the way to stretch the legs and take photos. We came to the Saint Ann Range. It was a 'post card' scene. A carpet of green with the sides of the hills and cliffs various hues of white, yellow and red. We arrived at the Dig Tree a little later than hoped and set up camp. We had a small fire in celebration of Peter's birthday. Monday 1st of August: a slightly later start due to the previously tiring day. We met the ranger on the way out and it was a babble feast. He told us that over the school holidays there was 700 cars in the Simpson Desert. The Prados from the previous day came up to pay their camping fees and the acting trip leader was a little anxious as he didn't want to follow their dust again. We got out before them, and the Prados followed Subaru dust that morning.
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TRIP SUMMARY Trip
Date Tuesday
Next Meeting
27th September at 8pm
Leader(s)
N/A
Standard
Social
See you same place same time
Friday 30th Buckland Valley
September to Sunday
Duncan McCrae
Relaxed
2nd October
Maldon Navigation Run TRIP HAS REACHED ITS CONVOY LIMIT
Saturday 15th October (optional Sunday 16
Martin Foot and
Social
Dorothy Greiveson
and Easy â—?
October)
Melbourne Laneways Walk Saturday THIS TRIP IS FULL BUT BEV WILL RUN ANOTHER ONE IF PEOPLE ARE INTERESTED
22nd October
Bev Davison &
Social
Jean Bellis
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Robe, SA
Saturday 29th
TRIP HAS
October to
REACHED ITS
Tuesday 1st
CONVOY LIMIT
November
Lee Wegner & Duncan McCrae
Medium ■ to difficult♦
Saturday Marysville
12th
Mike Dale
TBA
November
Saturday 12th Trivia Night
November 2016
Social Jean Bellis
starting at 7pm The venue is still Club Christmas Breakup
Sunday
to be decided so
27th
if you have an y
November
suggestions let us
Social
know!
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Spectacular view of the Saint Ann Range
Our first stop for the day was Burke's memorial. This was the place where Burke passed away and was originally buried (before being exhumed and transferred to Melbourne). Then it was into Innamincka to top up with fuel and have a coffee in the hotel. We then headed out along 15 Mile Track to King's marker. This was approximately where King was found with the Aborigines. Then it was onto Will's marker, where he was thought to have passed away and was later buried (before also being exhumed and transferred to Melbourne). We then back tracked through Innamincka and along the Adventure Way before turning right onto the Bore Track. This track was a good unmaintained road with varying surfaces, conditions and scenery. A thoroughly enjoyable drive. This eventually came to a T- intersection where we turned left. We drove down this for a while before turning right towards Epsilon. We made camp a little off the track and enjoyed another beautiful cloudy sunset.
Tuesday 2nd of August: about 1:00am in the morning it became quite windy, followed by some rain. Packing up was horrid. The rain had stopped, but it was windy, cloudy
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and cold. However, as no one wanted to stand around freezing, we packed up quickly and actually left early. About 5km down the road Dale lost all drive to the wheels. With the use of a hammer and block of wood we were on the move again fairly quickly. Morning tea was at Cameron Corner. Here we found out that virtually all roads south as far as Broken Hill were closed. Morning tea turned into an early lunch as we decided what to do. It seemed the most practical solution was to head to the Strzelecki Track. We high tailed it around to Merty Merty. Along this track we found the worst corrugations of the trip. We stopped at the junction of the Strzelecki Track and had a cuppa while we sheltered behind the cars out of the wind. We dropped into Montecollina Bore for a look and then headed south towards Mount Hopeless, turning off the main road just before the homestead. We turned off a few different tracks and made camp on the side of a creek near Moolawantan HS. The surrounding hills had great views. It was very windy where we were, even with the hills providing significant shelter. For future reference, a good camping area is Terrapinna Springs. That was very scenic and well sheltered.
Wednesday 3rd of August: sometime in the middle of the night the wind picked up and blew like all hell. Meredith had to get up and re-pegged the tent. We got up amidst a gale, packed up and headed off. The track was great and wove in and out of creek beds. Petrol was a little bit of a concern as we had been driving into a head wind all of yesterday. We rolled in to Lyndhurst to fill up. Then on to Leigh Creek for lunch. The coal mine has been shut down so it is impossible to get in for sight-seeing. Camp was at the Hawker Caravan Park where we all had a much needed shower. Their camp kitchen was in a shed with a wood fired heater which was nice and warm.
Thursday 4th of August: we awoke to white, the coldest morning yet (-4.5oC). Jamie fired up the wood heater in the camp kitchen and we all had somewhere to get warm. We filled up at Hawker before we left. Morning tea was at Peterborough. We filled up again at Yunta and then drove on to Broken Hill.
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Mike, Meredith, Richard, Kadin, Dale and Janelle went into Silverton. Jamie went to hire a car and Peter went to a wrecker looking for parts. Peter thought he had died and gone to car heaven, returning with a gearbox and front bar for an L series. It was suggested he should send some photos of the place to Rick. That way Rick would know where he was going to lead his next trip! Dinner was at the Royal Exchange Hotel. It was selected by Kadin on the basis that it had a piano. We all had a good meal (the service was excellent) while Kadin played piano. He got compliments by many of the patrons who were disappointed to find out that he didn't live locally.
Throughout the trip we crossed the state and territory borders 12 times. Although that does also include the two Victorian border crossings which technically were not part of the trip. Trip Participants Dale & Janelle (Forester) Mike & Meredith (Forester) Kadin & Richard (Forester) Jamie (Brumby)
Peter (L series)
11th Australian 4WD Gathering Loveday 4X4 Park, Barmera, SA.
Attended by Jean and Peter Bellis‌‌.and their Forester! This event is put together for those involved in 4WD to coming together from all over Australia for an extended weekend of driving and social events and to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Peter and I left Melbourne on the Thursday morning just after 8am. We had a good run across the city and out onto the Calder. We stopped at Lockwood and discovered a nice little campground near the public toilets. It was wonderful to see the lush green countryside after good winter rains. Due to a fairly strong head wind, the fuel consumption was high and we had to make an extra stop for fuel.
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We arrived in Mildura mid-afternoon and stayed at the Apex Riverbend Caravan Park. (this was the same Park we stayed at on the Disputed Border Trip). The river level was much higher than back in March. It was really warm in Mildura so after setting up it was time to put on shorts. I discovered I had forgotten to pack mine. This was a good excuse to go shopping and also fuel up ready for the next morning. Back at camp Peter decided to relax and I grabbed the camera and went for a walk along the river and waited to take photos of the spectacular sunset. As we were cooking dinner a man in a Forester with Tasmanian plates pulled into the site next to us. He was surprised that we could tow the camper with the Forester and was full of questions about it. On learning that others in Club also did the same he then became interested in the Club. He had retired to Tasmania but comes across regularly to take part in bike rides and ride the rail trails but was very interested in some of the trips the club did. We gave him a flyer and he was going to visit the website with the prospect of joining when he arrived back home after his 6 week or so trip up the East coast of Australia. We awoke during the night to the unexpected sound of extremely heavy rain. While we had hoped to be on the road by 8.30am at the latest, the rain persisted. We stayed in bed hoping that it would ease off but it didn’t. As we hadn’t put up the veranda we made use of the camp kitchen to boil water for a cuppa and to fill the thermos and we had a quick breakfast sitting in the camper. We then packed up an extremely wet camper in the heavy rain. The rain eased off as we travelled west and cleared to a sunny but extremely windy day. Those of you who did the Disputed Border Trip with us earlier in year will remember that just before we crossed over the Stuart Hwy the dust was so thick that you were unable to see. The dust would not have been a problem this time as the track was a lake of water.
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We made a quick stop in Berri for fruit and vegies and to visit a bakery before the final stage of the journey to Loveday Park. Due to the rain the sand was very compacted but there were a few muddy spots to negotiate. Setting up was proving to be a challenge for many as the camp ground was on the top of an exposed hill and it was very very windy. The good thing about the wind was that it dried out the wet canvas very quickly. The afternoon was set aside for people to arrive, set up, relax, meet up with each other or explore some of the property. Everyone came together at 4pm for a briefing of the weekend and happy hour with the big fire pit providing a great place to meet up. The wind was still very strong and cold so after dinner most people had an early night. Saturday was to be a relaxed morning around camp with a few more people arriving. A group car photo shot was arranged with a photographer from a local paper. After lunch it was time for a tag along tour of the 4WD track. Due to the rain the sand was compacted. But in sections of the track there were optional challengers to try. One was a rather large pit that had been dug. Peter watched one vehicle negotiate it and decided that he could do it. The next vehicle was a modified Nissan patrol which did it without any problems. He then turned around and came back down the other way. When he got to the top he decided to back down it and up the other side. This wasn’t as successful and it took him several attempts to get out causing the sand to be churned up and a deep hole to form on one side. The next vehicle then had trouble trying to get out as he only had road tyres on so the sand became more chewed up and the rut got bigger. At this stage Peter and several others decided that they were not going to attempt it. There were other obstacles along the way and many were surprised at the capability of the Forester. The next stop of interest was the trig point on a small rise. This also had a sign post with the distance to various places such as the South Pole, New York etc on it. We had a group photo taken here. The next stop was the rise above the lakes. There were several steep rutted tracks leading down to the lake edge. The guy in the Nissan Patrol decided to tackle one of them and got up and down easily. He then tried the next one. Going down was OK but coming up was another matter and he ending up getting seriously stuck. He was eventually able to get himself out after a bit of track maintenance by a few others.
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That afternoon happy hour was followed by a roast dinner. After dinner the many donated items were auctioned off. A group of young people who were camped along the river had been invited join us at the tavern for the evening and take part in the evening. They bid keenly on several items over the course of the evening. They were winning bid on a fast lap in a Rally car around the Rally track. This was then used as a birthday gift for one of the guys in the group. This lap took place the next morning which we were able to witness some of through the dust. Sunday morning saw most of the group do a tag along tour along the river paddocks which are not normally assessable to the public. Due to the rain the tracks were very wet and muddy and all cars were quickly covered in thick grey mud. Again the capabilities of the Forester surprised many. There were a few comments about trying not to lose the forester in the deep mud and water. For those that wanted to, there was a creek crossing. The water was a bit deep for us and for many of others. Some felt that they were a long way from home and some had many weeks of travelling ahead of them and didn’t want to tackle a tricky creek crossing they didn’t need to. So the group split into two and our group still found plenty of muddy sections to have fun in. We joined up with the other group as they dropped down and up to cross over a gully. The Guy in the Nissan Patrol decided that he was going to tackle the gully by going through the sections filled with water. The exit was rather difficult and he was left leaning on an angle and needed to be rescued. We then moved away from the river mud and onto some rather spectacular sand dunes for a bit of fun. Back at camp most people attempted to clean some of the mud from windows, lights and wheel hubs. After lunch there was a scavenger hunt. Each car had a list of questions to find the answers around the property and a 2-hour time limit. Jan from Alice Springs came out for the ride with us. While we didn’t do too well with getting all the answers it was still
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a very pleasant drive down along the river and back though the bush on the tracks from the day before. That evening the major raffle prizes were drawn and people took the opportunity to sit around the campfire. Breakfast was provided the next morning and most of the group enjoyed bacon and eggs and took the time to say farewell. We didn’t need long to pack up the camper. While some of the group were heading for home others were off to travel further. One group were heading to Cape York, some of the Centre Coast group were taking a couple of days to get home and others were off on individual holidays. The group had travel from areas including Central Coast NSW, Alice Springs, Melbourne Adelaide and Kyneton. We travelled back into Mildura and crossed into NSW before crossing back into Victoria and onto Cohuna for the night. We spent the next day travelling home and visiting family along the way.
Snow trip to Tomahawk Hut & home via Lake Eildon By Paul Saleeba In mid-July I did a midweek snow trip in the area north of Merrijig and Mirimbah (west of Mt Stirling) with the intention of getting to Tomahawk hut. I encountered heavy snow and did not make it so looking at the weather, with snowfalls forecast I was planning to head back on Saturday 20 August for another go. The club put out the call on 13 August for someone to run the snow trip so I offered to make my trip into the snow trip. The meeting point was at Mansfield at 10.30 am. Amongst the members attending, it was good to have Peter Siperki and family from Wangaratta, and Simon Whitehead on his first trip. After a quick discussion it was agreed that due to a late change in the forecast, snow chains would not be required. In fact, there was possibly not going to be any snow. With rain starting to fall the 6 cars headed onto the Mansfield Mt Buller Road. Then before Merrijig the convoy turned on to Buttercup Road and aired down. Kevin was trying out a new tyre deflator and could not get it to work so borrowed mine. We then headed along Buttercup Road which takes a winding course through farm land before
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descending quickly into the Mansfield State Forest. At this point there are couple of minor creek crossing with fast flowing water. Having completed both crossings Lee was heard over the radio saying the biggest challenge was getting up this morning! The convoy pressed on with rain falling and the temperature decreasing, but still no sign of snow. We then headed onto Carters Road, Rick was eyeing off various side tracks. The temperature was now around 1-degree C, maybe now there was a chance of snow! We continued along Carters Road luckily someone had cleared several trees that had fallen over the track. Both Rick and I had our chain saws on board just in case. We continued to climb and then turned onto Buckland Spur track and pulled up at Tomahawk Hut. It then started to snow! Mission accomplished even though it was melting on hitting the ground! As no one else was at the hut and given the cold inclement conditions, it seemed like the best option for a lunch spot.
So the fourteen of us crammed in there. Whilst having lunch we experienced all sorts of inclement weather, rain, hail sleet and snow. I decided after lunch we would head further up Carters Road to where the season closure gates are. At this point there was plenty of sleet turning to snow. Whilst the main group stopped, Rick headed up No 3 Track and radioed to say the gate was open. We all then headed up and met Rick at the gate.
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At this point it was snowing heavily. I lead the group up and soon we encountered a large tree across the track partially blocking it. Here we encountered a couple in a Hilux coming down the track. After a brief discussion Rick, Simon and I decided to proceed further up the track and Kevin, Peter and Duncan (who said he didn’t want to scratch his car) decided to reverse back down to a large open area as the track was too narrow to turn around on.
This track is quite rocky and we proceeded up to a point where we could turn around.
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We then joined the others.
We then headed down to a large clearing for a group photo.
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From here we wound our way down through the forest until we came onto the Mansfield Mt Buller Road at Saw Mill Settlement. Some of us aired up there whilst others decided to drive slowly to Mansfield and air up there. At Mansfield we said good-bye to Peter and family and the rest of us head around the east side of Lake Eildon on Skyline Road which rises up steeply behind Bonnie Doon. Along the east side of Lake Eildon there are many spots for taking scenic photos, and many photos were taken! From here we headed to Alexandra and said our good-byes.
Trip participants: Paul (Forester) Simon (Jeep) Kevin, Vicky & Mary (Forester) Peter, Wendy & family (Forester) Lee & Duncan (Ford Ranger) Rick & Josh (L Series)
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B U Y AN D S E LL Member Items for Sale Item: Protective mat for rear cargo area of a Forester Details: Fits Forester SH (Gen 3, 2008 2012). Protects cloth surface from dirt, spillages, tears, etc. Coated foam type with surrounding lip. Black. VGC. Cost: $20 Contact Martin Foot, mship@subaru4wdvic.com.au, 0434 770 497 Item: Milford Cargo Barrier for Forester SH Details: Fits Forester without sunroof (P/N 705400). Grey colour. Requires fitting kit (not supplied) to be installed in the car. VGC. Cost: $30 Contact Martin Foot, mship@subaru4wdvic.com.au, 0434 770 497 Item: Forester Aluminium Bash Plates Details: made from 6.0mm construction grade aluminium Cost: $300 for club members, $330 for non-members. Fitting can be arranged. Contact: David Wilson, dw@subaru4wdvic.com.au, 0429 942 724 Item: Set of 4 alloy rims from Outback 1997 model Cost: $120.00 ONO Contact: David Wilson, dw@subaru4wdvic.com.au, 0429 942 724 Item: Roof console to hold CB and lights and switches for Outback Cost: $100.00 Contact: David Wilson, dw@subaru4wdvic.com.au, 0429 942 724 Item: Vic blue and white standard number plates in as new condition 1XV4US Cost: $400.00 ONO Contact: Jenny, 0417369405 Item: number plate SUBARU Can be re-issued in any custom design via the Vic Roads website (see link
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below) if a different colour or style is preferred: https://www.vplates.com.au/index.php?page=customise-plate Cost: negotiable, but realistic offers between $3,500 to $6,000 Contact: Richard, 0414 737 333 Item: STi Intercooler. Details: Excellent condition, apart from slight dent on side (pictured). Came as spare parts when I purchased my 2007 Forester. Will fit most Turbo Subies. Cost: $250 Contact: dgreenall79@gmail.com
Item: STi Exhaust system Details: STi Exhaust system. Everything you need to give your Suby the perrrr it deserves! Very clean, no dents, minor scuffs, Stainless steel. Everything from the Manifold back to the chrome STi stamped tip!! Cost: Make me an offer!!! Contact: dgreenall79@gmail.com
Want to sell something Subaru/off-road related? Contact editor@subaru4wdvic.com.au
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.
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Club Resources
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Resources Officer Dale Rebgetz Email: resources@subaru4wdvic.com.au
M IN U T E S Committee Meeting Minutes Minutes of the meeting of the committee of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc held on Tuesday 13th September 2016 at the home of Dan Conlon starting at 7:58pm. 1.
Present Edith Fullalove, Meredith Dale, Peter Bellis, Lee Wegner, Duncan McCrae, Dale Rebgetz (via teleconference), Dan Conlon.
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2.
Apologies Bob Marshall.
3.
Visitors Jamie Scott, Stephen Whittaker, Michael Dale, Jean Bellis (all previous committee members).
4.
Quorum A quorum was achieved with 7 committee members present.
5.
Committee Appointment The committee resolved to appoint Jamie Scott to the committee to fill one of the two remaining committee vacancies under rule 57a. The committee resolved to appoint Michael Dale to the committee to fill the remaining committee vacancy under rule 57a.
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Minutes of the Previous Meeting 6.1. Minutes of the August 2016 were accepted without amendment. 6.2. Business Arising from the Minutes and Outstanding Actions 6.2.1. Bank account signatories. 6.2.2. Request for advertising in club’s magazine by AllDrive Subaroo. 6.2.3. By-Law – Convoy Travel – Peter yet to complete reformatting of agreed text into By-Law format – waiting on Dale. 6.2.4. New Member Pack – Currently on version 2. It does include a disclaimer. The personal information form needs to reference to the club’s website. It was also suggested that vehicle modification information be moved further back in the info pack. The club’s constitution needs to be added to the club’s website under the membership section as a PDF copy. Also, need to add a reference/pointer to the club’s website and Facebook page. Need to also add some details about what the club is. It was suggested that the cover be printed on different coloured paper to differentiate it from the club magazine. Alternatively, watermark or otherwise the front page to make it full colour. Correspondence 7.1. In 40th birthday celebration. 7.2. Out 40th birthday celebrations. Reports 8.1. Resources Nothing to report. 8.2. Trip and Social As circulated. Christmas party – Bundoora Park has been suggested. Also Blue Rock dam. The trip leader packs are currently being revised and updated. It was suggested that club name tags been worn by members on trips. 8.3. Venue As circulated. 8.4. Membership Membership application received from David and Doris Hogben. RESOLUTION The committee resolved to accept the membership application from David and Doris Hogben.
8.5.
Club vehicle stickers – will need to order some more in six month’s time. Editor Nothing to report. Editorial deadline is 16th September 2016.
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8.6.
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Treasurer Current cashbook balance is $7,624.95. Major receipts include 40th birthday, membership renewal. Major payments include 40th birthday photographic book. 8.7. Secretary Need to lodge incorporated association registration renewal. 8.8. Vice-President Nothing to report. 8.9. President Thank you to the past committee members for all their effort over the past year. Welcome to the two new committee members – Lee and Edith. Thank you to the committee members who have stayed for another year. Sub-Committees 9.1. Communications Stephen have offered to continue to manage the club’s Facebook page. Club website 9.2. Constitution Review Trip/convoy by-law – awaiting final draft from Dale prior to circulation as by-law. 9.3. Education / Training Jessica is currently not available for conducting training courses due to her job relocation to Portland. Jessica has suggested that we approach another 4WD Victoria instructor to see if they could run one for us. It would allow the course to break even financially. Will need to re-evaluate. 40th Birthday Have between 70 to 80 attendees. We’re targeting 95. Bus – will only utilise one. Some people may need to drive in/out. A schedule for the week-end has been put together. Stephen gave a brief outline. Dan will put together a direction map once information is received from Stephen. Pull-up club banner – where is it located? Jean to contact Damian. Name badges for attendees – members to bring their name tags. Stephen will be MC for the event. Photobook – will cost $35. Life Membership The committee considered several nominations for life membership. Committee Handover Committee roles: Venue – Meredith Editor – Dan Trip – Michael Social – Lee Community – Jamie 4WD Victoria delegate - Duncan Others pending further discussion. General Business Goals / challenges for the next year – discussion deferred to next month. Email passwords – Peter to contact Martin to change the passwords on email accounts after consultation with new email holders. Trackwatch – should the club submit an article with photographs about the recent Simpson Desert trip? Michael to submit. Next Meeting will be held on Tuesday 4th October 2016 at 7:30pm at the home of Peter Bellis. Meeting closed at 10:34pm.
General Meeting Minutes The general meeting of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc was held on Tuesday, 30 th August 2016 at the South Camberwell Tennis Club starting at pm.
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1.
Present Peter Bellis, Jean Bellis, Dale Rebgetz, Paul Saleeba, Duncan McCrae, Lee Wegner, Mike Dunn, Anthony Sounders, Peter Devine, Simon Whitehead, Edith Fullalove, Peter Fullalove, Jessica Walsh, Kevin Bird, Meredith Dale, Michael Dale, Tim Folliard, Richard Saleeba, Martin Foot, Matt Chaplin, Cynthia Rennolds, Stephen Whittaker, Andrew Jantke, Peter Landouris, Dan Conlon, Rick Koster, Damian Stock, David Wilson.
2.
Apologies Peter Mynard, Katie Mynard, Dennis Scambler, Bob Marshall, Ruth Marshall, Janelle Rebgetz. Jamie Scott, Lisa Jantke, Dorothy Greiveson, Bev Davison.
3.
Visitors Robert Millar.
4.
Welcome A welcome was extended to all members and visitors.
5.
Minutes of the Previous General Meeting 5.1. The minutes of the July 2016 General Meeting were accepted with amendment (Jessica was chairperson) after being moved by Jessica Walsh and seconded by Tim Folliard. 5.2. There was no business arising from the minutes. Correspondence 6.1. In Magazines from various 4WD clubs. 4WD Victoria – notice of September general meeting. Various regarding 40th birthday celebrations. 6.2. Out Various regarding 40th birthday celebrations. Reports 7.1. Resources Club clothing – have a potential change of club clothing for the club polo shirt due to a price hike. 7.2. Editor 1. Editorial deadline is 16th September. 7.3. Trip and Social Details about future trips and social events elsewhere in the magazine. Club Christmas party – Sunday 27th November – seeking suggestions for location. 7.4. Venue Details about future club meetings elsewhere in the magazine. 7.5. Membership. Have received some more membership renewals. Have received a number of membership enquiries. The club membership numbers continue to grow. 7.6. Treasurer Current cashbook balance is $14, 877.00. Major receipts include membership renewal and club 40 th birthday. 7.7. Secretary Nothing to report. 7.8. Vice-President Nothing to report. 7.9. President As per the magazine. General Business 8.1. Jessica – have a lot of travel DVD available for members. 8.2. Aldi – having 4WD stuff for sale this coming Saturday. 8.3. Jessica – had a promotion in the CFA and so, will be transferring to Portland in the next few weeks.
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9.
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11. 12. 13.
8.4. Matt Chaplin – covered 8 deserts in 4 weeks – was an excellent trip. Fines and Fun 9.1. Nametags Rick Koster, Peter Landouris, Andrew Jantke. 9.2. Last to Meeting David Wilson 9.3. Trips 9.3.1. Snow Trip Lee – hardest challenge for the day was getting out of bed. Duncan – for not going further up a track for fear of scratching his car. 9.4. Total fines collected - $5.05. 40th Birthday Have 70 people attending so far. Targetting 80 people. Will have plenty of shelter to sit under to chat. Photobook has been compiled – will cost $35 per book. Children will be at a reduced price ($20 off). The campsite will be open Friday night. Bring your old club photos in an album for others to check out. The lucky door prize was won by David Wilson. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 27th September 2016 commencing at 8pm. Meeting closed at 8:56pm and was followed by the AGM and then supper.
E DIT OR N OT E S Thanks for all the contributions again this month! Any interesting articles you find and want to share, or if you would like to write an article for the magazine …. let me know! Just a friendly reminder also to please proof read, and be sure to use punctuation and grammar. The deadline for submissions for next month is:
September – Thursday 13th October (Like 7 out of 10 in terms of seriousness)
As always please send emails to: editor@subaru4wdvic.com.au
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