Issue 5 January 2012 EXCLUSIVE First pictures of Andrew Nichols Ford Louisville LT9000, bogie axle semi that will attempt the record jump at the Loveday AusTruck Extreme World Record Weekend
Featuring the 2011 Riverland Challenge & 2012 Southern Crossing
New Logo, Website & Magazine Format
Loveday 4x4 Adventure P AusTruck Extreme World Record March 17th & 18th 2012
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Huge Weekend of Action Another huge new event is in the making at the Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park, scheduled for the weekend of 17th and 18th of March, 2012. Tony and the crew are in the process of organising a weekend to debut Australia’s newest 4WD event, Austruck in the Riverland. The track is now being remodelled to cater for this event. Austruck, a series of timed races over obstacles has drawn large crowds to the Melbourne and Brisbane 4WD Shows. 30 of Australia’s top modified 4WDs will compete during Saturday morning and all day Sunday. Saturday afternoon will see a number of spectacular attempts to smash up to eight records from the Guinness Book of Records. Included will be an attempt at the longest jump by a semi. Loveday competitor Andrew Nichols has raised $20,000.00 in sponsorship and is in the process of building a Ford Louisville LT9000, bogie axle semi to attempt the record jump.
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Sam Xuerb’s Monster Truck, “The Devil’s Taxi” based in Melbourne and the star of various Monster Truck Shows, will attempt to wheel stand for up to 1km. The huge TV show, Top Gear currently holds the record for a reverse jump by a car of 61 feet. Toby Whateley is confident of easily smashing this record. Loveday identity, Simon Herrmann will challenge the “single roll overs in a car over a 5 min period”. The record stands at 9, with a total of 14 being seen as easily achievable. A Polaris Odyssey UTV will attempt a wheel stand of over 1km, and smash the 60 foot jump record with a 90 foot jump. The Loveday extreme show will show the crowd how to jump cars over cars. Toby Whateley will be attempting a record for the longest jump on a motorized esky. Brock Hebberman will be attempting a record for the longest jump in a car towing a caravan. With a crowd of in excess of 5,000 spectators expected this event is set to become a huge drawcard on the 2012 Riverland calendar. Stay tuned for more information.
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Josh Bacchus in action on his way to winning the 2011 Riverland Challenge
A word from the editor The Christmas break has brought a few changes to Offroading Online Magazine. I am excited to announce that we have met our distribution target of 7,000 downloads/views per issue for 2011. Now we set about achieving our target of in excess of 15,000 downloads/views per issue during 2012. We have set in place a number of improvements and changes to achieve our goals. We have recruited four new contributors, that I am sure will offer more variety and interest to the magazine. Welcome aboard Geordie, Sue, Darren and Jasmine. Along with their fresh ideas we have been working on a new interactive Website with lots more widgets and links to our Facebook and YouTube pages. Our advertisers are better catered for with new banners displaying their businesses and products. Thank you to all those people and businesses that have got behind Offroading Online Magazine to make it a great success. Tony Whateley from the Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park has been a great source of inspiration and assistance. Thanks to Geordie Wright from the Riverland for his enthusiasm and encouragement. A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes to get the site up and running. The biggest issue we have faced with the magazine is deciding on which format will best suit our readers. Many people are not comfortable with downloading an .EXE file due to the incredible amount of computer viruses that are out there in Cyberspace. The PDF download started to become very large and was affecting those of you with limited bandwidth. We have explored a number of options and have settled on Issuu to host the Magazine. The PDF and EXE files will still be available for download. Now when you click on the download pages you will see the magazine imbedded. One click and Offroading Online Magazine will open. Check out all the additional features that will make for easier reading. All the best for 2012. Danny Hanrahan
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www.harvestthesun.com.au
Denis O’Dea: 0404839137
In this issue A Word from the Editor Camel Scan BIG4 goes Mobile Australian Made Campers Letters to the Editor Mickey Thompson 2011 Riverland Challenge The Southern Crossing ARB Silver City 600 and a lot more......
Offroading Online
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Editor Danny Hanrahan Contributors Geordie Wright Sue Callow Darren Berryman Jasmine Brown Website editor Danny Hanrahan Geordie Wright Facebook editor Geordie Wright Offroading Online No part of this magazine may be copied, broadcast or reproduced in any manner on any medium without the written consent of the copyright owner. Offroading Online Unit 2 50 Wtton Road Christies Beach SA 5156
Australians travelling in the Outback have been urged to report any feral camels they see to assist a nationwide campaign to limit the damage caused by over a million feral camels across the inland. Launching the new CamelScan website, Jan Ferguson, Managing Director of Ninti One Limited, the organisation managing the Australian Feral Camel Management Project said, “Landholders who live with feral camel damage on a day-to-day basis are very keen to see them reduced to a density that they can live with.” CamelScan has been developed by the Invasive Animals CRC, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Ninti One Limited, and is part of the FeralScan program that is being rolled out across the country to help with the management of feral animals, with other species to be monitored including rabbits, foxes, myna birds, wild dogs and feral pigs. Australians travelling in the Outback have been urged to report any feral camels they see to assist a nationwide campaign to limit the damage caused by over a million feral camels across the inland.
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Launching the new CamelScan website, Jan Ferguson, Managing Director of Ninti One Limited, the organisation managing the Australian Feral Camel Management Project said, “Landholders who live with feral camel damage on a day-to-day basis are very keen to see them reduced to a density that they can live with.”
Report sightings of feral ca and their damage at
www.feralscan.org.au /
CamelScan has been developed by the Invasive Animals CRC, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Ninti One Limited, and is part of the FeralScan program that is being rolled out across the country to help with the management of feral animals, with other species to be monitored including rabbits, foxes, myna birds, wild dogs and feral pigs. “Australians are great travellers and we are confident that if rangeland landholders, four-wheel-drive enthusiasts, grey nomads, outback workers and other travellers record feral camel sightings and other data within the site, our body of knowledge and intelligence will grow quickly,” Ms Ferguson said.
htings and damage in
CamelScan • Over 1 million feral camels roam the rangelands of Australia and their numbers will increase without management. • They damage pastoral enterprises, infrastructure, environmentally and culturally significant sites, and are a risk to motorists.
amels
/ camelscan
The Australian Feral Camel Management Project is supported under the Australian Government Caring for our Country initiative and is addressing the urgent need to significantly reduce feral camel density to lessen their impacts in remote Australia on biodiversity, wetlands, waterholes and other sites of cultural value to Aboriginal people, infrastructure (fences, houses, cars) and personal safety.
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I hope you can help me. The other day, I set off for work, leaving my husband in the house watching TV. My car stalled, and then it broke down about a kilometre further down the road. I had to walk all the way back to get my husband’s help. When I got home, I couldn’t believe my eyes. He was in our bedroom with the neighbour’s daughter. I am 32, my husband is 34 and the neighbour’s daughter is 19. We have been married for 10 years. When I confronted him, he broke down and admitted they had been having an affair for the past six months. He won’t go to counselling, and I’m afraid I am a wreck and need advice urgently. Can you please help? Sincerely, Sheila
He was in our bedroom with the neighbour’s daughter. Dear Sheila
A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a variety of faults with the engine. Start by checking that there is no debris in the fuel line. If it is clear, check the vacuum pipes and hoses on the intake manifold and also check all grounding wires. If none of these approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump itself is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the injectors. I hope this helps, EditoR
DEAR EDITOR,
I wanted to send some sort of holiday greeting to my friends and colleagues, but it is difficult in today’s world to know exactly what to say without offending someone. So I met with my lawyer yesterday, and on her advice I wish to say the following: Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non addictive, gender neutral celebration of the summer solstice holiday practised with the most enjoyable traditions of religious persuasion or secular practices of your choice with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practise religious or secular traditions at all. I also wish you a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2012, but not without due respect for the calendar of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make our country great (not to imply that Australia is necessarily greater than any other country) and without regard to the race, creed, colour, age, physical ability, religious faith or sexual preference of the wishee . By accepting this greeting, you are accepting these terms: This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for her/ him or others and is void where prohibited by law, and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher. The wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year or until the issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher. Best Regards ( without prejudice ) Name withheld ( Privacy Act ).
A man in rural Wisconsin wakes up one morning to find a bear on his roof. So he looks in the yellow pages, and sure enough, there’s an ad for “Up North Bear Removers.” He calls the number, and the bear remover says he’ll be over in 30 minutes. The bear remover arrives, and gets out of his van. He’s got a ladder, a baseball bat, a 12-gauge shotgun, and a mean old pit bull. “What are you going to do?” the homeowner asks... “I’m going to put this ladder up against the roof, then I’m going to go up there, and knock the bear off the roof with this baseball bat. When the bear falls off the roof, the pit bull is trained to grab his testicles, and not let go. The bear will then be subdued enough for me to put him in the cage in the back of the van.” He then hands the shotgun to the homeowner. “What’s the shotgun for?” asks the homeowner. “If the bear knocks me off the roof, shoot the dog.”
Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park 2012 Events Calendar March 17 -18th AusTruck Extreme World Record Weekend May 5th - 6th Mud Dust & Music June 10th - 11th Loveday Ute Muster August 4th - 5th Australian 4x4 Muster October 27th - 28th Riverland 4x4 Challenge
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BIG4 goes Mobile
BIG4 Holiday Parks is excited to announce the launch of the perfect on-road companion - the BIG4 mobile website. BIG4.com.au has been customised to suit most mobile smartphones. The site is fully integrated with email, social media, GPS and more, giving you the option to contact Parks, share with your friends and even find directions to BIG4 Parks via Google Maps. The site includes: • a fully interactive Park finder including the option to find ‘Parks near me’ via the GPS facility; • information, pictures and availability for all 180+ BIG4 Holiday Parks, • the option to book every Park directly through the mobile site; • the ability to subscribe to the BIG4 enewsletter and find BIG4 on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube; • the option to buy or renew a BIG4 Memberships; • as well as a link to purchase BIG4 gift vouchers. With a growing number of people accessing BIG4.com.au from mobile phones we saw the need to adapt for this fast growing technology. The BIG4 mobile site is compatible across most mobile operating software including iPhone, iPad, Android, Nokia, Windows Mobile and Blackberry. BIG4 welcomes your suggestions for future enhancements to the BIG4 mobile site
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Clean sweep for BIG4 Holiday Parks at State Tourism Awards BIG4 Holiday Parks can verify its claim of being Australia’s favourite holiday park provider, after a clean sweep at the 2011 State Tourism Awards held across the country throughout November. At each of the seven awards nights, BIG4 Holiday Parks were recognised as the best in the sector, taking out the highly competitive ‘Caravan and Tourist Park’ category, which recognises holiday parks that offer the best overall tourism experience. The State Tourism Awards are held each year to acknowledge tourism businesses that have demonstrated outstanding achievement and success throughout the year. The following BIG4 Holiday Parks were recognised as this year’s elite accommodation providers: • BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD) • BIG4 Adelaide Shores Caravan Park (SA) • BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park (TAS) • BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park (NT) • BIG4 Beacon Resort (VIC) • BIG4 North Star Holiday Resort (NSW) • BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park (WA BIG4 Beacon Resort was also inducted into the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame, after winning the award for the third time. Many of BIG4’s Parks are also regularly praised on interactive consumer websites such as Trip Advisor, confirming BIG4’s popularity amongst Australian holiday enthusiasts, and the industry as a whole.
“These awards reinforce BIG4’s position as the leading holiday park operator in Australia, which sees us building a national home grown brand Australians can be proud of. These seven award-winning businesses are testament to the quality of Parks in our family and we are very proud they wear the BIG4 badge,” Ray adds. Those wanting to enjoy the BIG4 experience for themselves can start their journey and book at BIG4.com.au , now available as a fully bookable mobile site on all mobile platforms including Smartphones and tablet computers.
Australian Made Cam
Western Australian Dealer for CUB Campers, Off Road Equipment is highlighting to people seeking a camper trailer to fulfil their travelling dreams, to be wary of imported camper trailers that are being passed off as Australian made. More than a dozen of Australia’s leading manufacturers of camper trailers including CUB Campers have banded together to form an industry association to highlight the quality workmanship and advantages of insisting on buying only Australian Manufactured camper trailers. The Australian Manufactured Camper Trailer Guild (AMCTG) has noted that poor quality components and workmanship in many of the cheap camper trailers being bought into Australia is often only apparent once the trailer lets customers down. Off Road Equipment in Myaree, fully endorses family owned CUB Campers which have been around for more than 40 years. CUB pride themselves in designing, and building quality camper trailers for Australia’s demanding conditions. Managing Director of Off Road Equipment Andrew Fardon said, “An increasing number of companies are passing off their imported campers as Australian made.
mpers the way to go! We believe that customers have a right to know if their camper trailer is made in Australia, with Australian made components - including the canvas. The quality of Australian canvas used in locally manufactured campers is made for Australian conditions and superior to imported canvas and suits our sometimes challenging climate and conditions. ” “CUB campers recently announced they were investing more than $7 Million in new state -of-the-art Australian production facilities to ensure they remains competitive against imported products. We proudly support their initiative in the tough Australian manufacturing industry” he added.
CUB campers believes that using quality Australian material, with the latest production techniques, using highly skilled Australian trades people and craftsmen, is the one way to guarantee Australian customers can buy quality campers that are built to cope with our unique conditions. The CUB Campers range are strong, reliable and suit a wide variety of requirements, whether you’re an outback traveller or a holidayer heading to the beach on a tarmac road. There are currently 35 models in the range, the latest being the new Spacevan-4-kids which has spacious double bunks inside the body of the camper.
Mickey Thompson 2011 Riverla Challenge
The boys from Adelaide’s FourPlay 4x4 out practicing a bit of what they pr
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reach
Riverland Challenge 2011
M
otor sport is a dangerous occupation. These words are often heard during the drivers briefing at many motor sport events and unfortunately rang true at the recent Riverland Challenge.
During the Sunday two competitors came crashing to the ground after launching their Jackeroo high into the air. Both ended up OK, but fairly sore after spending the night in the Berri hospital. As a photographer on the track I remain highly impressed by the response from a number of the local emergency services.
All of these people involved are volunteers and had given up a fair proportion of their Sunday to attend.
First on the scene in just seconds where the Barmera CFS. They quickly took control along with other qualified personnel already at the track. Two local St John Ambulances and a State Emergency Ser vices vehicle where also soon on the scene. All went about their business in an extremely professional and highly trained way. Both competitors indicated pain in their lower backs, necessitating caution with every move.
All in attendance at the Riverland Challenge are eternally grateful to these volunteers and services. On behalf of Tony Whateley and all the competitors I wish to express our sincere thanks for all your hard work and personal time given to such an honourable cause. Thank you. The 2011 Riverland Challenge attracted a record number of entrants, ensuring the weekends racing would be hotly contended. In the Open Class, Rory Watson and Josh Bacchus raced hard all weekend, thrilling the large crowd. Their V8s roared around the track collecting enough points to challenge each other in the finals. Josh went wide a couple of times but managed to pick up the seconds just as Rory broke a steering rod to hand Josh 1st place. The Bushman’s and Standard Class again proved a huge success, this year attracting record entries. The ever popular Dougie took out the Bushman’s Class from Team Ballroom Dancing, with Glen Chillingworth taking out the standard Class.
bottom I always thought there was something funny about Dougie
Step Ups Proved to be the Place for Action The step ups on the main straight have equalled the table top as the place for action. After Tony changed the angles slightly competitor after competitor has been getting air straight over the top.
These guys rocked up on Saturday night just in time for the Sand Drags after finishing building their weapon late in the afternoon. Then lined up on Sunday for the remainder of the heats and didn’t waste any time in getting air bourne. They took the attitude of “we have been watching long enough and built this thing to race and jump and that’s just what we are gunna do”.
REDARC enters the Loveday Scene Stuart Peddle from Redarc raced well all weekend and was also responsible for donating a couple of the famous Redarc products as prizes.. Sand Drags Jed from Lightforce fired up the ute and entered in the Sand Drags. Jed is a regular visitor to Loveday and is always happy to talk about the Lightforce spotties.
Winners are Grinners Open Class winners Josh and Ben(right) are congratulated by runners up
Sand Drags Open to All The great thing about Loveday is that almost anyone can join in the
R
ory Watson raced hard all weekend, testing his new vehicle to the limits.
With quite a few dollars invested in his new machine, the Riverland Challenge was the perfect arena to test out the new setup. Unfortunately Rory broke a steering rod during the Open Class Final whilst racing neck and neck with winner Josh Bacchus. Rory will be one of the local stars to contest the new AusTruck event, held in conjunction with the Guinness Book of Records Weekend on the 17th and 18th March at the Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park
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Andrew Nichols and his crew always put a lot of work into their vehicle making them a crowd favourite. Andrew has raised over $20,000 in sponsorship to put together a Ford Louisville LT9000, bogie axle semi to attempt a record jump at the Loveday Guinness Book of Records Day to be held at the Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park on 17th and 18th March. Make sure you put this date in your calendar and book a camp spot early as a crowd of in excess of 5,000 spectators is expected.
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Advertisement 2012 FINKE DESERT RACE GRID GIRLS MEDIA RELEASE FRIDAY 21 OCTOBER 2011
FINKE GRID GIRLS GET A FACELIFT To celebrate the tenth year of the Finke Desert Race Grid Girls in 2012, the Grid Girls page on the official Finke Desert Race website has been re-worked to keep everyone up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of the event beauties.
“The Grid Girl page on the Finke website is one of the most popular pages on the website behind the home and results pages” said Race Secretary, Kelsey Rodda.
“It was time to give it a facelift and make it the hub of all things Grid Girl and to really tie in with the dedicated Grid Girl Facebook page, Twitter and You Tube channel they currently have” said Rodda.
The new page on the website has news, photos, videos and information for those interested in being a Grid Girl in 2012 or for businesses looking to sponsor the event in a different way through the girls.
“The page will have something for everyone and we encourage people to log on and check it out. While you’re there you can move around the rest of the site and keep updated on all things Finke” said Rodda.
The website is www.finkedesertrace.com.au and follow the link through to the Grid Girls page.
2012 will be a big year for the Grid Girls with everything kicking off when applications open on January 1. There will be two “Application Open Days” as well as great incentives for girls to apply and heaps of things planned for the ten lucky girls who are chosen to be the beauties for the big ten year anniversary.
The selection process will occur straight after entries close on Friday 24 February 2012 and the return of online voting will allow applicants to get their families and friends to help them get a spot in the final ten.
The 2012 Finke Desert Race will be held on Queen’s Birthday long weekend 8 to 11 June.
Media enquiries contact Kelsey Rodda on 0408 087 504
A Short Bedtime Story
The End
ARB 2011 Silver City 6 Two years ago motoring enthusiasts in Broken Hill invited the Cross Country Rally Group to their city to discuss the possibility of setting up and running an event. This resulted in the ARB Silver City 600 being successfully run over the weekend of 5th and 6th of November. The Cross Country Rally Group is the organisation behind the Australian Safari in Western Australia, the NSW Condo 750 and now the ARB Silver City 600. All of these events attract large numbers of entrants and spectators along with the dollars that are spent during the event. Roo Racings Brent Twaddle, speaking on behalf of the group said “Our aim is to set up and run the event, train staff and offer support in any way we can for the first year”. “We are not about owning the event, but rather offering support in future years to enable local businesses and community based groups to take over the ownership and running of the event”. “All the benefits then remain in the local community and we get to do what we want, and that is race cross country ”. Brent added “The Cross Country Rally Group includes off-road rally vehicles, standard and highly modified 4WDs, buggies, quads and bikes, so the potential is always there for a huge event”. Brent is confident that the Broken Hill event will grow to rival the Australian Safari. Rumours were running wild about bikes and quads being included in the 2012 event. Bent would not confirm this but added “the enthusiasm and support from this city could result in anything “. The group is now actively looking for a fourth racing venue within Australia. There needs to be an airport nearby, an oval or show ground to cater for the base camp, enough properties nearby to race on, and a community to support such an event. Well, what are you waiting for………..
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ARB Silver City 600 winners
Geoff Olholm and Gordon Trigg in their Modified Mitsubishi Pajero V8 Full story in the next issue of DirtComp Magazine
The Southern Crossing The quintessential motorcycle adventure is one of the last frontiers of the world … three Australian blokes will cross a region with spirit and a freedom so unique it stands alone. Through pain and tears, they will stay committed to the rugged journey through sheer determination.
In May 2012, three everyday Aussie’s will undertake the challenge of a lifetime. They will attempt to cross the harshest terrain in Australia and possibly the most unforgiving environment in the world. Facing incredible challenges and unknown dangers, these adventurers leave fear behind to live out a two wheel dream to cross Australia in virtually a straight line. They are attempting a world first. Over 98% of the terrain is dirt, sand, rock and mud and over 1,500 massive sand hills in the Simpson Desert must be conquered... an incredible adventure of true Australian spirit and unrivalled determination. Leroy, Geordie and Jon will do battle with the upredictable weather, whilst enjoying some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world and meeting unique locals and indigenous communities on their journey. Australian celebrities and fellow bike and 4WD enthusiasts, will join the team on trip stop points to encourage and cheer them on their way. Join the boys on their epic adventure... as they take on ‘The Southern Crossing’.
To document a challenge a world away from the bustle of city life, amid impressive dunes and exotic native wildlife. A documentary for television acquisition, DVD release and book publication, where Australian history, indigenous culture, adventure and environment, are on display in a uniquely exciting and unpredictable journey brought to you by three regular Aussie blokes and a host of celebrities.
technology and equipment, to showcase how travel through rugged environments like Australia has been revolutionised. Celebrities will participate throughout the documentary on route and will donate memorabilia to be auctioned off in order to raise funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The underlying message in the documentary is about “having a go” in the face of adversity and overcoming not only the hardships of the ride, but enjoying and absorbing the unique cavernous gorges, boundless desert landscapes, remote Aboriginal communities and a charming pioneering history. Australia will support these adventurers and international demo-
46 days 9,000 kilometers - An Australian challenge of a lifetime along the 26th & 28th parallel. Inspired by the Leyland Brother’s 4WD trip in 1966, this adventure is one of a kind. The route will be as close as possible to the 28th and 26th parallel. Many tracks have little or no use. Riders will be self sufficient and endeavour to carry their own food, fuel, water, tents, clothes, spares and tools. Many occasions will see the riders travelling by GPS straight across the desert and making their own tracks. This will be dangerous and gruelling. The 4WDs will be fitted with the latest
graphics will watch in awe at true Aussie spirit and amazing surrounds. Extensive exhibition of the pristine environment, as savage as it may be, will encourage the preservation and protection of delicate outback ecosystems and their uniquely adapted flora and fauna.
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Large gaps currently exist in the promotion of Australian adventure tourism and ‘nature based’ eco tourism for motorcycle and 4WD right Leroy, Jon and enthusiasts. Whilst the demand for thrill seeking, adventure tourism and documentary style productions in exotic locations for niche demographics continues to grow, programming and marketing of such adventures has not been developed concurrently with demand.
Geordie
With the sad loss of Mike Leyland, Steve Irwin and Malcolm Douglas, our three intrepid bike enthusiasts will feed consumer hunger for a new, true, Aussie adventure. . The Southern Crossing trip is across 9,000 kilometres of some of the most demanding terrain in the world; the Simpson Desert, Central Australia and the Gibson Desert; with more than 95% being dirt, rocks and sand. This crossing is from East to West, not West to East as documented by the Leyland Brothers in the 1960’s by 4WD. Unlike the ‘good old days’, there is an environmental, cultural, lawful and historical etiquette which is of significant importance to our production. Hence, we will not be interfering with bones of Dutch sailors and Aboriginals, or highlighting aboriginal carvings with chalk to make them more visible on film, or even scoffing down protected emu eggs; as done in the 1900’s. Our production offers a unique and responsible adventure by top Heading up the Bore motorbike and 4WD, conducive Track during to current day demographics... the type of rugged and unscripted adventure missing from TV screens today. The production entourage includes personalities with some of the
best kept secrets, stories and area access in Australia! The inclusion of celebrities adds an additional dimension to this hive of exciting viewing. With 45 days of pure struggle, discovery, education, mateship and elation... why wouldn’t you want in!?
During the 2011 crossing, Leroy endured a bad fall west of Cameron Corner whilst testing maximum bike weight in sandy conditions. It resulted in several broken ribs. He was airlifted to Broken Hill Hospital by the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
However... the only sure thing about luck in the outback, is that it can change with the wind. There are a multitude of factors to consider when planning such an adventure; route, safety equipment, first aid, dangerous flora and fauna, emergency plans... the list goes on!
This incident was paramount in deciding to modify equipment for the filmed documentary attempt of top  Leroy havthe crossing. ing a spell after eating a bit of Whilst these injuries can occur, the Bore Track every precaution is taken to try and ensure the safety of all crew.
One thing is for sure, these elements combined make for fantastic television viewing and help to create public awareness for travel safety
THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS
LEROY ROBINSON ... Character: With a fun, dry sense of humour this family man with a heart of gold, could be best described as “weekday white collar geek, weekend adventure freak”. His passion for the great outdoors and adventure is wildly contagious!
Boss “It’s a dream come true and the TV series will inspire Aussies and adventurers globally. They can take the motorcycle and 4WD adventure of a lifetime, from the comfort of a lounge room chair.”
As a business expert and Managing Director of Corporate Enhancement Pty Ltd, Leroy is the team leader and adventure instigator. Leroy’s dream started as a small child when the Leyland Brothers crossed Australia in 1966. With a mechanical trade under his belt, Leroy felt his personal challenge should be a tribute to the Aussie Adventurer; whether it be the weekender, motorcyclists, four wheel drivers or well known and passionate adventurers like the Leyland Brothers, Steve Erwin, and Burke and Wills. “There is a hunger, a need within Australia for a true adventure, something challenging and inspiring. The Southern Crossing will invigorate Aussies and adventurers globally”.
GEORDIE WRIGHT ... Character: With a quiet and friendly disposition, Geordie is a critical thinker with a level head in stressful situations. His thoughtful charisma is reflective of his true passion in life, his young family.
Wombat “There’s a certain sort of inner harmony that exists with adventure. I want to teach
Born and raised in country Victoria, Geordie now resides near Renmark in South Australia and works as a Quality Coordinator at a vineyard and winery. Geordie has four children and a wife who all support him on this ride of a lifetime. Geordie has been riding trail bikes as long as he can remember. Through his interest in motorbikes he discovered The Southern Crossing website and immediately contacted Leroy to be part of this great adventure. Geordie was welcomed to the team. Geordie is determined to be one of the first in the world to ride in a straight line across the deserts of Australia.
my children that
“My four kids and
life is like riding
wife are so proud”
a motorcycle - in order to keep your balance, you must keep moving.”
THE MOTORCYCLE RIDERS
JON FALIGUERHO ... Character: With a quick wit, cheeky and fun loving attitude, this fiery red head prankster is the spirited youth in the team. Although he looks somewhat like a criminal in this profile picture, we promise you he is not. Jon is a carpenter based in Brisbane, Queensland. Jon and Leroy have known each other for many years as Jon is a childhood friend of Leroy’s son.
Blue “You won’t discover new things unless you have the courage to lose sight of the familiar. Not knowing exactly where the goat tracks go or how we will conquer the terrain is what inspires me to travel it.”
Jon is a keen on road and off road motorcyclist, riding a Suzuki 600 sports bike and a variety of smaller off road machines in the bush. He has extensive coastal bush riding experience, however the desert sand and the western mud roads will be a new terrain type and as a fast learner, Jon is very much looking forward to the challenge. Jon has been very involved in preparing the new Yamaha 660 Teneres for the gruelling conditions and the extra 80 kilograms of weight they will need to carry. He is a valuable asset to the team with his ingenuity, perceptive judgement and ‘get on with it’ disposition.
BEHIND THE SCENES
BEHIND THE SCENES
Our team have worked in various industries, with positions requiring a strong focus on strategy development both B2B and B2C, on domestic and international levels. Team members boast unique and varied skill sets with strong business acumen, which combined make our core team an invaluable asset to ensure the success of The Southern Crossing. Importantly, our team thrive on adventure and have valuable knowledge in varied outdoor activities!
DOCUMENTARY & TV SERIES - ADVENTURE ITINERARY 4 6 d a y s - 9 , 0 0 0 k m s - Tw o w h e e l s E a s t t o W e s t Day 1 Byron Bay - Tenterfield
The Southern Crossing fans will descend on Byron Bay to launch the challenge with major sponsors and a special celebrity guest. Byron Bay - Lismore - Casino - Tenterfield.
Day 2 Mungindi
Mungindi is uniquely situated on both sides of the NSW and QLD border. Divided by the Barwon River, it is the only border town in the Southern Hemisphere with the same name in two states.
Day 3 - 4 Lightning Ridge
Go digging with a fair dinkum black opal miner and Lightning Ridge local ‘Butch’. See how fortunes are made and dreams shattered in the notorious Australian industry.
Day 20 - 21 Mount Dare - Dalhousie Mound Springs
A former cattle station and part of Witjira National Park. The boys meet the owner of the Trading Post and plunge into the oasis of Dalhousie Mound Springs.
Day 22 Finke - Lambetts Centre of Australia - Titjikala - Chambers Pillar
The boys meet contestants of the Fink Desert Race, the greatest race in the southern hemisphere before heading to the geographical centre of Australia and Chambers Pillar.
Days 23 Oak Valley - Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve
Approximately 100km south of Alice Springs is the picturesque Oak Valley. See the Ewnainga Aboriginal engravings site and the inland sea fossil field.
Day 5 Barringun
Day 24 - 28 Alice Springs
Day 6 - 7 Hungerford Adelaide Gate
Day 28 Palm Valley - Finke Gorge NP - Boggy Hole (Police Station Ruins)
Once a border customs post between QLD and NSW, Barringun is real outback with so many great legends to share. Buildings, now abandoned, include two police stations.
The Bulloo Region is home to under 400 people, however its total area is 71,925km² making it the 3rd largest region by area in Queensland.
Day 8 - Warri Warri Gate Day 9 - 10 Cameron Corner
The most remote location in outback NSW, where three Australian states meet. Learn the history of the Dingo Fence (the longest fence in the world) and the Bourke and Wills trek in the 1860s .
Day 11 Innamincka
Located 340 kilometres from Tibooburra, near the junction of the Strzlecki, Cordillo and Nappa Merrie Tracks on the famous Cooper Creek. See the famous Dig Tree.
Day 12 Arrabury
Visit isolated Arrabury. Arrabury Waterhole, when full, covers an area of approximately 11 hectares.
During World War II, Alice Springs was a staging base, known as No 9 Australian Staging Camp. The historic-listed Totem Theatre still exists from this camp. Visit the famous Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira’s historic home.
Palm Valley is located in Finke Gorge National Park and is home to over 400 plant types, of which more than 30 are considered rare. Boggy Hole is one of only a handful of permanent waterholes in the Finke Rivers.
Day 29 Illamurta Springs
In the impressive southern foothills of the James Range and with a permanent natural spring, this site provides a moist habitat for several relict aquatic plant species, and it protects the ruins of the Illamurta Police Camp.
Day 30 Curtin Springs - Mt Conner
Curtin Springs is very remote, locals would be lucky to see neighbours once a year. Mt Conner reaches 859m and is often mistaken for Ayres Rock. Boss, Blue and Wombat will show you old wells and bores along the track to the SA border.
Day 31 - 33 Indigenous Community
Boss, Blue and Wombat will be gaining special permission from the Indigenous Elders to enter Aboriginal communities and enjoy the ancient stories, cultural experiences and experience the lifestyle of the people first hand.
Day 13 Haddon Corner
Visit secret locations known only to Indigenous Elders. Watch as they make tools for hunting and make musical instruments. Learn how art is a very important part of the culture and how resources are maintained.
Days 15 - 16 Birdsville Poepppel Corner
Day 34 Surveyor General’s Corner
Between the sands of the Simpson Desert and the gibber plains of Sturt’s Stony Desert is the starting point of the famous Birdsville Track.
Surveyor Generals Corner is a nominal, remote point where the Australian state boundaries of SA, WA and the NT meet. In June 1968 two monuments were erected at the junction of the boundaries approximately 127 metres apart.
Days 17 - 19 Desert
Day 35 Warburton - Tjirrkarli
First surveyed by Augustus Poeppel in 1880, Haddon Corner lies at the intersection of the 26th parallel south circle of latitude. See tree stumps put in by Poeppel when he first surveyed it.
Boss, Blue and Wombat will battle the desert dunes. Due to the fact they are tackling them from the east to west, hills will be steeper than tackled before, because of the wind direction.
Warburton is an Indigenous Community. The community has no unleaded fuel supplies - just Opal fuel. The boys will need to test their skills and create an additive mix suitable for the Tenere 660 bikes. Will it be disastrous?
WA
SA
NT
QLD
NSW
START
H FINIS
BYRON BAY START
STEEP POINT FINISH
Days 36 - 38 Desert
After visiting the Tjulyuru Cultural Centre, the boys once again take on the harsh desert. With tired bodies and sparse landscapes to guide them, the true test is making it safely to their next stop.
Day 39 Desert - Carnegie Station
Exhausted after several days in the desert and with limited water supplies, Boss, Blue and Geordie reach Plenty Springs Station. Sand hills average an astounding 10m and there several mountain ranges.
Day 40 - 42 Desert
Australia is the driest inhabited continent on Earth, with only the Antarctica being drier. As the days in the desert drag on, the boys and their bikes will feel the toll. Meet the unique wildlife that survive these conditions.
Day 43 Meekatharra
A former gold rush town in the Mid West region of WA, meaning ‘place of little water’ from the indigenous language. It was an important location in the WA railways system and is home to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the School of the Air.
Day 44 Toolonga Nature Reserve Overlander Roadhouse - Hamelin
Toolonga Nature Reserve covers an area of about 400,000 hectares full of flowers, birds and deep red earth. The whole reserve teems with life.
Day 45 Monkey Mia - Cape Peron (North) - Hamelin
Monkey Mia is located on a unique section of World Heritage coastline and in the early 1960s, a pod of bottlenose dolphins began what has since become a ritual, hand feeding and amazing interaction.
Day 46 Steep Point - Useless Loop Overlander Roadhouse
Steep Point, the western most point of Australia, is a popular fishing area. It is apart of Carrarang Station and salt mining country. Witness the magnificent Zuytdorp Cliffs, some 170 metres above sea level.
T
he preparation and The Southern Crossing journey will be documented for a movie length documentary and television series for outdoor enthusiasts, travellers, adventurers and families. Fuel and water in isolated areas will be a major problem, therefore the logistics are well planned. Contact will be made with several Aboriginal settlements and stations to ensure that fuel and other supplies will be available. The bikes will need to carry sufficient supplies to reach refuelling stations, water and supply outlets. Some roads, tracks and desert crossings require permission from the appropriate authorities, and on occasion permits are required. Three 4WD vehicles will carry film and recording equipment for the production crew and photographers. They will also carry camping equipment, food and safety equipment. Riders will carry up to 80 kilograms of extra weight on their motorcycles, consisting of all equipment required for self sufficiency. A fourth motorbike will accompany the riders, as part of the production crew, filming in terrain that 4WD’s cannot access. Filming will start during the preparation stage, from the concept, to creating the team, the preparation and the journey itself. Photos are available from the 2011 adventure for promotion in 2012.
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Denis O’Dea: 0404839137 An Irish farmer named Seamus had an accident with a lorry ,and was sueing the lorry company, In court their hot-shot solicitor was questioning Seamus.. Solicitor ‘Now didn’t you say to the Police at the scene of the accident, ‘I’m fine?’ . Seamus
The Deaf Wife Problem Tom feared his wife Peg wasn’t hearing as well as she used to and he thought she might need a hearing aid. Not quite sure how to approach her, he called the family Doctor to discuss the problem. The Doctor told him there is a simple informal test the husband could perform to give the Doctor a better idea about her hearing loss. ‘Here’s what you do,’ said the Doctor, ‘stand about 40 feet away from her, and in a normal conversational speaking tone see if she hears you. If not, go to 30 feet, then 20 feet, and so on until you get a response.’ That evening, the wife is in the kitchen cooking dinner, and he was In the den. He says to himself, ‘I’m about 40 feet away, let’s see what happens.’Then in a normal tone he asks, ‘Honey, what’s for dinner?’ No response.. So the husband moves closer to the kitchen, about 30 feet from his wife and repeats, ‘Peg, what’s for dinner?’ Still no response. Next he moves into the dining room where he is about 20 feet from his Wife and asks, ‘Honey, what’s for dinner?’ Again he gets no response. So, he walks up to the kitchen door, about 10 feet away. ‘Honey, what’s for dinner?’ Again there is no response. So he walks right up behind her. ‘Peg, what’s for dinner?’ ‘For Gods sake, for the FIFTH time, CHICKEN!
‘Well, I’ll tell you what happened. I had just loaded my favorite cow, Bessie, into the...’ Solicitor ‘I didn’t ask for any details’,’Just answer the question. Did you not tell the police officer, at the scene of the accident, ‘I’m fine!’?’ Seamus ‘Well, I had just got Bessie into the sidecar and I was driving down the road....’ The solicitor interrupted again and said, ‘Your Honour, I am trying to establish the fact that, at the scene of the accident, this man told the police on the scene that he was fine. Now several weeks after the accident, he is trying to sue my client. I believe he is a fraud. Please tell him to simply answer the question.’ By this time, the Judge was fairly interested in Seamus’s answer and said to the solicitor: ‘I’d like to hear what he has to say about his favourite cow, Bessie’. Seamus thanked the Judge and proceeded. ‘Well as I was saying, I had just loaded Bessie, my favourite cow, into the sidecar and was driving her down the road when this huge lorry and trailer came through a stop sign and hit me right in the side. I was thrown into one ditch and Bessie was thrown into the other. I was hurt very bad like, and didn’t want to move. However, I could hear old Bessie moaning and groaning. I knew she was in terrible pain just by her groans. Shortly after the accident, a policeman on a motorbike turned up. He could hear Bessie moaning and groaning so he went over to her. After he looked at her, and saw her condition, he took out his gun and shot her between the eyes. Then the policeman came charging across the road, gun still in hand, looked me up and down, and said, ‘How badly are you hurt?’ ‘Now what would you have said’?
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Horses Asses Control the World
The USA standard railroad gauge is 4 feet, 8.5 inches. That’s an exceedingly odd number. Why was that gauge used? Because that’s the way they built them in England and British expatriates designed the US railroads. Why did the English build them like that? Because the first rail lines were built by the same people who built the pre-railroad tramways and that’s the gauge they used. Why did ‘they’ use that gauge then? Because the people who built the tramways used the same jigs and tools that they had used for building wagons, which used that wheel spacing.
Why did the wagons have that particular odd wheel spacing? Well, if they tried to use any other spacing, the wagon wheels would break on some of the old, long distance roads in England , because that’s the spacing of the wheel ruts.
So who built those old rutted roads? Imperial Rome built the first long distance roads in Europe (including England ) for their legions. Those roads have been used ever since. And the ruts in the roads? Roman war chariots formed the initial ruts, which everyone else had to match for fear of destroying their wagon wheels. Since the chariots were made for Imperial Rome , they were all alike . Therefore the United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches is derived from the original specifications for an Imperial Roman war chariot. Bureaucracies live forever. The next time you are handed a specification/procedure/process and wonder ‘What horse’s ass came up with this?’, you may be exactly right. Imperial Roman army chariots were made just wide enough to accommodate the rear ends of two war horses.
Now - the twist to the story: A Space Shuttle sitting on its launch pad has two big booster rockets attached to the sides of the main fuel tank. These are solid rocket boosters, or SRBs and are made by Thiokol in Utah .. Engineers who designed the SRBs would have preferred to make them a bit fatter, but as they had to be shipped by train from the factory to the launch site and the railroad line from the factory runs through a tunnel in the mountains, the SRBs had to fit through that tunnel.
The tunnel is slightly wider than the railroad track, and the railroad track, as you now know, is about as wide as two horses’ behinds.
So, a major Space Shuttle design feature was determined over two thousand years ago by the width of a horse’s ass! So we now know that ancient horse’s asses control almost everything. Current Horses Asses in governments worldwide are controlling everything else.
Three aussie blokes working up on an outback mobile phone tower: Mongrel, Coot and Bluey. As they start their descent, Coot slips, falls off the tower and is killed instantly. As the ambulance takes the body away, Bluey says, ‘Well, bugger me, someone’s gotta go and tell Coot’s wife. Mongrel says, ‘OK, I’m pretty good at that sensitive stuff, I’ll do it.’ Two hours later, he comes back carrying a case of Beer. Bluey says, ‘Where’d you get the grog, Mongrel?’ ‘Coot’s wife gave it to me,’ Mongrel replies ‘That’s unbelievable, you told the Missus her husband was dead and she gave you a case of beer?’ ‘Well, not exactly’, Mongrel says. ‘When she answered the door, I said to her, “you must be Coot’s widow.” She said, ‘You must be mistaken. I’m not a widow.’ Then I said, ‘I’ll betcha a case of beer you are.’ Aussies are good at that sensitive stuff.
Send in a story and a business, club, forum, etc. of your choice will receive a free one page advert for Issue 6
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Malleebash
Malleebashers Ute Club is fast becoming a household name on the Ute circuit. Clayton “Putty” Elliott and Shane “Chef ” Weger wanted a club that had no membership, no committee and no bullshit rules and regulations. After a few drinks over the 2011 June long weekend, Malleebashers was created, just in time for the Loveday Ute Muster. Word of this new club spread amongst mates and at every ute muster new members were given the thumbs up, the only membership requirements being to buy Putty a Bundy, own a Ute and attend events. In the six months since Malleebashers was formed membership has grown to 45. The first Ute muster for Malleebashers was at Loveday and since then they have travelled far and wide for a piece of the action. Deni Ute Muster was the highlight of the year with several Utes travelling from the Riverland bound for Ute heaven. Steven “Pilko” Pilkington took out the circle work title, also being the youngest bloke in the history of the event to do so. Pilko is one of the original founding members and is only too happy to give a hand to members, whether it is tech advice or just a chat. Putty and his merry band of mates returned from Deni with hangovers and a few tall tales.
Thunder in Kapunda was a great success for the club. Eighteen Malleebashers attended, with six of these being Chick Utes. The girls shone and took out top and second place for Chick Ute. 10 club Utes took home various trophies and awards, with another five new members and Utes welcomed into the club.
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her Ute Club
Christmas was fast approaching and the idea of getting together was announced. Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park being the location, thanks to Tony Whatley. Tony has been a huge supporter of Malleebashers and sponsors a few club Utes, as well as giving our club headquarters. Loveday has become our home, somewhere for us to get together, drink rum and dream up the next idea, whether it is a cruise muster or charity event.
New Year’s Eve saw Malleebashers party in 2012 camped in the paddock, complete with BBQ and a Gazeebo! Good times. The next event on the calendar was a Rum Raiser on the eve of the Keith Hospital Ute Muster. This was held at Loveday on the 13th January 2012 and for ever can drank Tony Whateley put $2.00 in the tin for the Fund Raiser. Members then left Loveday on Saturday morning and headed for Keith.
Malleebasher members come from all over the state and even boast a few interstate members. Our motto is “No distance to far”. So if you live in the Far North or the Deep South, Malleebashers Ute Club is only too happy to have you as a member. Malleebashers Utes has a Facebook page and has all the info photos and tall tales. We post regular information on upcoming events along with photos of all past events.
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THE RIVERLAND TUCKER AND TOY RUN Geordie Wright The 2011 T&T Run started strongly, in kind weather, from Vaughan Terrace Berri at 9.00am on Sunday 4th December, and then rolled onto Renmark where more riders joined the cause at BP/Maccas. The Run then went via Paringa to Loxton, with a collection stop in East Terrace, and continued on to the Moorook Store where the ever-faithful Sid Villas met us with a Ute load of goodies. He’s 88 now, and planning on contributing to many more Tucker & Toy Runs! (And I apologise to Sid for not being sure how to spell his name.) The group rode on to park in the main street at the Barmera Markets for a “show and shine” style happening, with much interest being shown in all the 150 bikes assembled. The 120km Tucker and Toy Run finished at the Barmera Men’s Shed for a sausage sizzle and scones lunch prepared by their members, with all the lunch proceeds also going to the Riverland Christmas Appeal . 147 bikes were counted arriving at Moorook and we met a few more at the Barmera Markets. With pillion passengers we estimate that 180-200 people took part in the ride. The bikes ranged from trikes to cruisers, sports and trails, and even a 1941 vintage Indian. It was an exciting array of bikes! The majority of riders were Riverlanders, but visiting Ulysses members from WA, Qld and Alice Springs were alert to the event and eagerly joined in. All proceeds from the day went to the Riverland Christmas Appeal, to support battling Riverlanders at Christmas time. We collected $2449.00 in cash donations, and fully filled the Riverland Special School 8X5X5 trailer - which accompanied the ride behind Veronica’s and Rick’s Ute - with the many generous donations of tucker and toys we gathered along the way from the towns we visited . Grateful thanks go to Barmera Rotary and Barmera Markets who each contributed $500.00 to the cash sum Ulysses Mallee collected on the day. Huge thanks to the Mallee Ulysses Committee, and Veronica and Rick, for their hard work in organising the Run, collecting all the donations during the day and delivering them immediately to the beaming Christmas Appeal Committee at the Uniting Church Hall in Berri. Acompetition was held on the day for the best-presented bike, adjudicated by the Mallee T&T Run sub-committee. It was won by Peter Nickolai of Loxton, riding his immaculate 1941 Indian Scout (oil leaks and all!) Rob Todd, fellow Ulyssian and Barmera Men’s Shed member has informed me that the lunch following the T&T Run raised an additional $300.00 for the Christmas Appeal. It was an enjoyable and mighty proud day for Ulysses Club, Mallee Branch. Peter Norman, Ulysses Mallee Rides Co-ordinator. THE ULYSSES CLUB IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION FOR MOTOR-CYCLISTS AGED 40 AND OVER, WHO ENJOY THEIR LOVE OF BIKES AND RIDING AND SOCIAL INTERACTION WITH LIKEMINDED PEOPLE WHO CARE FOR THEIR COMMUNITIES.
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THE RIVERLA AND TOY A POTTED
Bruno Stoltze of Berri was one of thos In the 1980’s he was a member of the R who started the Toy Run. Graham Clar early years toys were handed to the Salv the 2nd or 3rd year the club liaised wit Community Welfare Dept. to organize d hampers was raised and Bruno recalls th Evans, was in
Although the club had grown to ab President, the club gradually declined Riverland Motorcycle Touring Club p but apparently became concerned about function was handed over to a couple of Terry Kea
Des and Terry organized the run until ride leader, wearing his Santa coat. Des es run raised approx. $300,000 i
Through Des and Terry’s association Branch, Ulysses members gradually beca the organization of the run. The Ulysses organizing the route and departure time control over the ride. All participants are o ble accord
In 2007, for the first time S.A. Police p greatly enhanced the safety of the ride, an continue into t
The ride stops for about 10-15 minu towns and includes Moorook. This allows are carried in the 2 donated va
The ride route varies each year and inc the lunch being at a different location eac held at the
The run is always on the fir
The donation of fluffy toys has been t many years, but in recent times had result of donated toys, with older children missi of name from Toy Run to “The Riverla emphasis on the donation of non-p
At the conclusion of the run all do Combined Churches as the organizers o and who administer distribution o
The Ulysses Club Inc. Mallee Branch event, and look forward to doing
Toddy (Rob Dec. 2
AND TUCKER Y RUN HISTORY
se involved in the original Toy Run. Riverland Motorcycle Touring Club rk was President at the time. In the vos for distribution, but after about th Tony Jepp of what was then the distribution. The next year the idea of hat the then Berri Mayor, Margaret nvolved.
bout 50 members and Bruno was and Bruno resigned. It seems the probably ran the event until 1993, t the insurance implications so the f local businessmen, Des Watts and arney.
2006, and Des was traditionally the stimates that from 1993 to 2006 the in cash, toys, and tucker.
with the Ulysses Club Inc. Mallee ame involved and in 2007 took over s Club Inc. activities are limited to es and publicity but not any form of ordinary road users and are responsidingly.
provided 2 motorcycle escorts which nd we trust this valuable service will the future.
utes in each of the main Riverland s donations to be received and which ans which follow the run.
cludes all the Riverland towns, with ch year. A fundraising raffle is usually lunch.
rst Sunday in December.
traditional among motorcyclists for ted in an imbalance in the age groups ing out. This has resulted in a change and Tucker and Toy Run� with the perishable food, cash, and toys.
onations are handed over to the of the Riverland Christmas Appeal, of donations to needy people.
is proud to be the organizer of this g so for many years to come.
bert Todd) 2009
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2012 NAT Australian Speed & M Champi
Lake Bonn
Photos by Ja
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TIONALS Marathon Ski Racing ionships
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ney Barmera
asmine Brown 2012 saw the Riverland town of Barmera host the Australian Speed and Marathon National Ski Championships. Kristie Middleton, Ski Racing Australia CEO, , says it’s a team sport. “Success depends on the driver being able to maintain the speed of the boat, the observer, sitting next to the driver who is watching the skier and making sure that the skier is able to take a really fast line and is capable of skiing that fast. “Some of the speeds here reached in excess of 100 mile and hour so you need to make sure that your skier is really capable, so it is really a team sport.” “Having such a beautiful foreshore and being able to see the entire course so that you can actually watch them go all the way past you, out to the back and then come right back around is fantastic. Back-to-back Junior World Champion Jack Houston became the most prolific winner taking four national titles across the week long event, including one behind V8 Supercar star, Todd Kelly. Houston took victory behind his father and regular driver Greg Houston (Stinga F1), in Under 19 Boys and Social Mens and victory in the Under 19 Boys Marathon Championship behind Darren Stapleton in ‘Still Sparken’ before jumping on the rope behind Kelly (Mojo) and regular observer Kevin Boylan (who observed in every one of Jack’s four wins) to take the win in the 8-litre engine class, that win giving Kelly his first national crown in ski racing. It wasn’t as cut-and-dry as Houston’s other victories, Kelly having to push hard in the closing stages to record victory by just four seconds over ‘Troublemaker’. Todd also skied in the championship event, behind father John, finishing sixth in Mens 30-40, and fifth in Unlimited Inboard. Source: ABC and 321 igbition.com
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Breaking News... Huge new event planned for Broken Hill in August. Cars, buggies, quads and bikes all in one spectacular weekend. Stay tuned...
Next Issue
Due out in April 2012 AusTruck Extreme World Record Weekend Postie Bike Run Highlights from the Brisbane National 4x4 and Outdoors Show Showcasing Alan Carmichael and his spectacular Landscape Photography and a lot more