Horizons 2018 August/September by The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc.)

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2018

» What’s on in WA » Member benefits » 10 of the best

Sun power Solar comes of age in Perth

Car running costs Your biggest outlays

Shooting stars WA’s starlit skies

Editor Vanessa Pogorelic Graphic Designer Renee Smith Head of Design Mark Coppini Managing Editor Rebecca Martin Advertising Des McNamara (WA only) Tel. 08 9388 7844 des@mediatonic.com.au Kerri Spillane Tel 03 8520 6444 kerrispillane@hardiegrant.com Publisher RAC WA

Cover photo The Pinnacles at Nambung National Park Photography: Michael Goh

Your RAC magazine Aug/Sep 2018

Daniel Ricciardo

Local hero 43 59

CAB audited as at March 2018 is 578,889 households

Australia Post ISSN No 0810 8285. The opinions contained in this publication may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees. Advertisements in Horizons are the responsibility of the advertiser. No person should act or rely upon such opinions or advice and RAC accepts no liability for them. Any rewards or rights provided to a member cannot be transferred, assigned, sold or redeemed for cash. Inclusion of a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.

Member lounge People, places and offers

Contact

Member benefits RAC members save every day

 facebook.com/RACWA  @racwa rac.com.au  editor@rac.com.au For deaf, hearing or speech impaired members: Emergency Roadside Assistance SMS number 0434 182 877 All queries relayservice.gov.au For more contact details, see page 80.

Roadside Assistance, Battery Services

Vehicle Condition Appraisals

13 11 11

1300 797 078

Membership, Motoring Advice, Insurance, Finance, Travel, Touring, Security Services

13 17 03

RAC Auto Services

1300 135 667 RAC Tyres

1300 651 042 Corporate Enquiries

9436 4111

August-September 2018 / Horizons

President’s message RAC Parks and Resorts

Exchange Your views and feedback

Snapshot News from RAC

What’s on Great events around WA

New car survey The cost of running a car in WA

Solar boom WA’s solar panel revolution

Star gazing Astrophotography in starlit WA

Travel brief News from RAC Travel

In bloom Wheatbelt road trip

Star attractions Visit famous on-screen locations

Old-time car safety Innovations through the years

Motor news Everything on wheels

We use Biowrap

Test drive Putting new cars to the test

The 10 best Food trails

Please recycle with your magazine after reading.

Horizons / August-September 2018

The plastic sleeve that protects your Horizons is made from oxybiodegradable plastic. This wrapping is specially designed to break down and disintegrate up to 1000 times faster than most plastic.

Helping to save lives and save you money Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership

RBRA0492

RAC is a membership organisation. We give back to you with savings on RAC products and services, plus savings on fuel, shopping and more. In return, your membership helps us sponsor the RAC Rescue helicopters which fly life-saving missions every hour of every day. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership.

Find out more at rac.com.au/power Member Benefit Terms and Conditions apply. Funded by the State Government, the RAC Rescue helicopters are managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

YO U R R A C

President’s message A focus on WA is the key to unforgettable holidays Ensuring our members get to their destinations safely, easily and with the least environmental impact is central to RAC’s vision, as is promoting travel to quintessential Western Australian destinations, and helping members holiday in their State. We’re determined to show off the wonders of WA. Which is why, in 2014, RAC announced the purchase of our first property - Cervantes Holiday Park. This was followed in 2015 by the purchase of Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Exmouth Cape Holiday Park and the Ningaloo Reef Resort in Coral Bay.

The newest addition to our Parks and Resorts portfolio, the eco-style RAC Margaret River Nature Park is located among the tall timber of the Wooditjup National Park and provides guests with an authentic South West bushland experience.

Our aim is to make holidays simple and satisfying for our one million members and we’re proud to offer access to some of the most beautiful locations in WA.

With every property we acquire, we consider what improvements can be made while still preserving the history and natural beauty of each location. Most recently, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort underwent an extensive redevelopment which has seen the introduction of new family villas and beach front accommodation, a tripling of the campground, and a host of new facilities, including a second swimming pool, new camp kitchens and new recreation rooms.

Today, RAC’s seven holiday parks and resorts are located in iconic settings throughout the State, each offering unique experiences and discounts for members. RAC Busselton Holiday Park RAC Cervantes Holiday Park RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park RAC Karri Valley Resort RAC Margaret River Nature Park RAC Money Mia Dolphin Resort Ningaloo Reef Resort

Horizons / August-September 2018

With each new purchase, upgrade and refurbishment, we aim to both improve the member experience and further enhance the already

incredible travel options available throughout Western Australia. We will continue to take every opportunity to craft individual and unforgettable moments for visitors. We should all embrace what’s on offer in our own backyards. RAC’s plan is to provide a range of affordable, reliable and high quality accommodation options for our members and the community, and to encourage more Western Australians to holiday at home. So whether it’s experiencing one of the hundreds of incredible options dotted along our sparkling coastline or the many more nestled among our serene bushland, be sure to put WA top of the list when planning your next getaway.

RAC President

Tony Evans RAC Council President Tony Evans Senior Vice President Jacqueline Ronchi Vice President Ross Dowling Members of Council Dennis Banks Allan Blagaich Esme Bowen Freda Crucitti Jill Darby Dalton Gooding Alden Halse Murray Lampard Emmerson Richardson Tim Shanahan Christopher Turner Julie Wadley

Tony Evans RAC President

YO U R R A C

Member feedback

@racwa @racwa editor@rac.com.au Sign up to receive RAC’s For the Better enews rac.com.au/racenews

Wedding rescue  Thanks for being there in a time of need at my sister’s wedding. We had a flat battery after the ceremony. Thankfully everything ran smoothly after the battery was replaced. We were placed on high priority and RAC arrived within 15 minutes. Laura Tindale

Get social with @RACWA on Facebook and Twitter. Tag your snaps with #RACWA and you could feature in the next Horizons.

Winning Exchange Caravan close call I read with interest the article about caravan sway (Horizons, April/May). My biggest fear when towing a single axle caravan was a tyre blow out, due to the swaying effect on the caravan. So I had an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) retro fitted to my caravan and am so pleased now that I did. On a recent trip to the east I blew a tyre and it was absolutely shredded by the time I stopped. Due to the ESC, the only reason I knew it had happened was the noise it made and the drag on the car. There was no sway whatsoever and the caravan kept a straight line as I slowed down and pulled over. One incident proved the ESC was worth every dollar I paid for it. I highly recommend them as I incurred no damage to vehicle or van. The other thing I also carry for safety is a pair of bright orange disposable overalls to slip on which makes me very visible to other passing traffic. Safety is paramount on these trips and anything that improves this is worth looking at. John Burges

August-September 2018 / Horizons

YO U R R A C

Fuel supply

Cutting emissions

According to Australian Associated Press, in May Australia only had reserves of petrol for 20 days, diesel for 21 days, LPG for 59 days and aviation fuel for 19 days. Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg has now announced a review of fuel reserves. Such reviews often take a long time. Perhaps we need to be more serious about changing to electric passenger vehicles, especially if powered by home solar panels with battery storage. Adrian Price

 Shocked to read President of @RACWA message in Horizons (June/July) that Australian tailpipe emissions are 50% higher than average of OECD nations. But uplifted to read David Cann’s glowing Tesla EV journey through the Red Centre. I’m longing for an affordable electric vehicle down under. Kevin Chalkin

Busy bus lanes I enjoyed reading your summary of rules relating to cars travelling in bus lanes (Horizons, June/July). I commute to work in the CBD via a bus that goes down Fitzgerald Street in North Perth. There is a bus lane on each side of the road for the morning or afternoon busy periods and so many private vehicles do not adhere to the rules and travel in the lanes the whole way down Fitzgerald Street. Ash Hunt

Still ‘Holden’ on

Get off my tail

 This is my pop’s Holden HG wagon. This car is still as good today as the day it was first put on the road. My pop and nanna drove this car from WA to Victoria three times with a small caravan on the back. The dog’s name is Russell. Donelle Noonan

I would like to commend John Mercer regarding the letter on tailgating (Horizons, June/July). I could not have put this any better myself. He covered all the points we ourselves have issues with and did them so well. Tailgating is becoming a daily road hazard and very distracting when you view a vehicle coming up behind you at a fair speed when the lights have just changed to red and then [they] slam on the brakes. Tricia and Derek Willans

Send feedback and win Send us your opinions and feedback via Facebook, Twitter, email or post and you could win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance. For assistance or more information call 13 17 03 or visit rac.com.au Terms and conditions on page 80. Published letters may be edited for style and length. While we try to respond to all letters we receive, a response cannot be guaranteed.

Horizons / August-September 2018

YO U R R A C

News in brief from the RAC and beyond

More work needed on WA’s riskiest roads In 2017, more than 6000 West Australians nominated dangerous roads and intersections around the State as part of the RAC Risky Roads survey. In May this year, we examined how much progress had been made towards fixing them. Compiling a scorecard, we found that, while works were underway on a range of the State’s riskiest roads, many were unfunded and in some cases, still unplanned.

Of the 10 roads and 10 intersections identified last year, our scorecard revealed almost half, in areas such as Albany, Capel, Edgewater, Greenmount, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley and Oakford, did not have funding allocated to fix them. With WA home to one of the worst road fatality rates in the nation and with a road maintenance backlog estimated at $845 million, there is urgent need for increased government investment to improve the safety of WA roads.

Can you drive with your interior light on at night? There are no penalties for driving with an interior light on in your car, whether it’s during the day or at night. However because an interior light can limit your vision of the road, particularly at night, it’s best to only use it while safely pulled over off the road.

RAC Risky Roads is WA’s largest road infrastructure community survey providing a snapshot of community perceptions, insight for road authorities and assisting in identifying trends in traffic flow, infrastructure and safety. For survey results and our scorecard, visit rac.com.au/riskyroads

August-September 2018 / Horizons

YO U R R A C

The next issue of Horizons will contain an election supplement (with a ballot paper) that will allow eligible voting members of The Royal Automobile Club of WA (RAC) to cast their vote in the 2018 RAC Council election. Where there is more than one eligible voting member in a household, one election supplement will be included with Horizons, with further copies being sent separately (by later post). Please note: only those persons who are Honorary Life Members, Gold Life Members or Personal Members (who have paid their subscriptions in full for the applicable period of membership) as at the date 28 days prior to the date of the annual general meeting, are eligible to vote. Other members, including Red Card, Rewards (previously known as Affiliate), free2go, child & youth, fleet and national assistance program members are not eligible to vote. If you are an eligible voting member and if you have not received a copy of the election supplement by 5 October 2018, you can request one by emailing councilelections@rac.com. au, calling us on 9436 4354, by visiting rac.com.au and using the ‘Contact Us’ link, or visiting an RAC Member Service Centre.

Horizons / August-September

Thom Perry

RAC Council election alert

15 years of being there for all West Australians 2018 marks 15 years since the first RAC Rescue mission was flown in WA. On 11 August 2003, the Jandakot-based RAC Rescue helicopter was sent to attend a plane crash at Jandakot where an aircraft had crashed off the end of a runway.

RAC Rescue milestones

1.2m

kilometres flown – equal to 32 times around the world

7309

Since then, and with a second helicopter added in 2016, the RAC Rescue service has flown more than 6000 missions saving countless lives, from road crashes, shark attacks and emergencies far out to sea.

hours of flying time – equal to 304 days of non-stop flying

As WA’s only dedicated 24-hour emergency rescue helicopter service it covers more than two million people across the State.

Funded by the State Government and sponsored by RAC, the two RAC Rescue helicopters, based in Perth and Bunbury, are managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

Be ready for any emergency on the ground Before you travel into regional or remote areas anywhere in Australia, make sure you have the Emergency Plus and Emergency Aus apps on your mobile phone. Emergency + Developed by Australia’s Emergency services, the Emergency + app uses GPS satellites to provide the exact location of anyone calling emergency services - you don’t even need to be in mobile reception range for it to work.

Emergency Aus The Emergency Aus app gives you warnings in real time of incidents that have occurred in areas you are travelling through and updates on the situation as they are issued by emergency response agencies across Australia.

ou can call a number of emergency Y lines from 000 to State Emergency Services and Police assistance no matter where you are in Australia.

se it to get the latest information U during emergencies and disasters. Both apps are available for iPhone and Android and are free to download.

EVENTS

What’s on

Events around the state in August and September Peter Chalmers Photography

Julia Rau Photography

LEFT: Shinju Matsuri ABOVE: Running of the Lambs at The York Festival

Avon Descent

Shinju Matsuri, Broome

Perth Upmarket

WA’s premier white-water race, now in its 45th year, is WA’s second-longestrunning sporting event. The 124km course tests competitor’s skills and endurance over two days through challenging areas such Emu Falls and Bells Rapids from Northam to Bayswater.

The ‘Festival of the Pearl’ rekindles the excitement of the early days of pearling in Broome from the late 1800s when the town was a world-renowned producer of South Sea Pearls. The festival shines a light on the diverse cultural heritage of Broome and has a packed program of art, food, family activities and a dazzling long table dinner on Cable Beach.

The quarterly Perth Upmarket at the University of Western Australia’s Winthrop Hall has become one of Perth’s premier design markets showcasing the wares of more than 180 local makers and includes fashion, artworks, homewares, jewellery, skincare and gourmet foods.

4-5 August

avondescent.com.au

Nannup Flower and Garden Festival 16-19 August

25 August - 2 September

shinjumatsuri.com.au

Kings Park Festival September

16 September

perthupmarket.com.au

IGA Perth Royal Show 22-29 September

It’s show time! Perth’s largest community event is a highlight of the spring school holidays and brings the country to the city. Visit the many interactive exhibits, hop on a ride, sample some treats, watch a variety of performers and entertainers then stay for the nightly fireworks.

This four-day festival held in picturesque Nannup attracts thousands of garden lovers and features stalls of garden products, unique garden art, crafts and gifts. Visitors can take part in environmental workshops, garden tours and enjoy great local food and entertainment.

This month-long festival is a colourful tradition at Kings Park, celebrating spring and WA’s wonderful wildflowers. Festival goers can enjoy floral displays, music, exhibitions, workshops, art and guided walks. There were more than 25,000 plants and dozens of wildflower species on display last year.

nannupgardens.org.au

bgpa.wa.gov.au/kings-park

CinefestOZ Film Festival

The York Festival

Hidden Treasures Bloom Festival

Cinefest OZ has become one of the premier destination film festivals in Australia. Set in the South West centres of Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough and Margaret River, CinefestOZ attracts film lovers, makers and actors with Australian film premieres and events over five days in cinemas, wineries, small bars and galleries.

Visit WA’s oldest inland town for this month-long wheatbelt themed festival. There’s plenty of fun for all with events like the Hay Bale Challenge sculpture competition, the Great Gold Hunt and the Running of the Lambs, where kids tackle a ninja warrior style obstacle course. York is just a one hour drive from Perth.

Festival events and activities around the Great Southern region will include wildflower displays, open gardens, train rides, sampling local fresh produce and whale watching along the coast, plus the chance to explore southern wonders such as the Stirling Range, Fitzgerald and Porongurup National Parks.

cinefestoz.com

yorkfestival.com.au

hiddentreasures.com.au/bloom

22-26 August

Horizons / August-September 2018

8 September - 7 October

perthroyalshow.com.au

22 September - 21 October

Stay safe on the roads with $40 off Get a winter safety check of your wipers, lights, tyres and brakes with every car service at RAC Auto Services. Plus you’ll receive: » Free wash & vacuum* » Free courtesy bus*

HORIZONS0818

Save $40

Present this voucher when you drop off your car, and we’ll give you $40 off your minor, major or logbook service.

To book call 1300 134 642 or visit rac.com.au/winter40 R16371

*With the exception of RAC member 10% discount, this offer is not to be used with any other offer. RAC 10% member discount applies to all labour costs performed by the RAC. Simply call to request additional vouchers for other members in your household. Offer valid for car services conducted before 30th September 2018. Discount voucher to be presented at time of service. Vacuum is of the floor/carpets only. Courtesy bus conditions apply. Service provided by RAC Automotive Services P/ MRB 935. Promo Code: HORIZONS0818

Book at any of our nine Auto Services centres Balcatta

Bentley

Canning Vale

Joondalup

Mandurah

Morley

Myaree

Osborne Park

Perth City

FUEL’S UP BUT

CAR COSTS ARE DOWN

We all know how much a car costs when you first buy it, but we rarely think about the ongoing costs. Here’s the low down on the operating costs of vehicles in WA.

Horizons / August-September 2018

MOTORING

Good news for car owners. The cost of owning and running a new car in WA has come down, slightly. As well as lower upfront costs, newer cars are also typically thriftier on fuel and you get more safety equipment for your spend too. The RAC’s 2018 Vehicle Operating Costs survey assessed 140 popular new cars across 14 different vehicle categories. Over the past year, it found average running costs have decreased more than $4 a week to $212.86 for 2018. The cheapest vehicle to own overall was the Mitsubishi Mirage in the Micro car category, with a weekly average cost of $102.73. Mitsubishi also took out three other categories, comprising SUV all terrain, two-wheel drive ute and four-wheel drive ute. Some of the cost reductions made by lower interest rates were offset by significant increases in fuel costs, increased government charges and in some cases, faster depreciation. The price of unleaded petrol, for example, was up by 9c per litre on average, compared with last year, which for an average car equates to $108 or about 20 cups of good coffee over a year. However, according to RAC’s manager of vehicles and sustainability, Alex Forrest, by far the biggest single cost of owning a car remains depreciation, something many consumers don’t consider carefully when they are on the showroom floor. “Depreciation makes up 43 per cent of the cost of owning a new car over five years, on average,” says Forrest.

“This cost is not fully felt by people when they’re buying a car, but it does come into play when it’s time to sell it. “Of course, the amount the car attracts in the second hand market will also affect the seller’s ability to afford their next new car.” On-road costs such as stamp duty and registration make up 21 per cent, while fuel costs account for 11 per cent of your annual vehicle running costs.

“ Depreciation makes up 43 per cent of the cost of owning a new car over five years, on average” In the popular SUV category, the Chinese-built Haval H6 was again found to be the most affordable medium SUV. “The Haval’s low drive-away pricing has pushed it to the front of the medium SUV pack, but consumers should also note the H6 is considerably thirstier on fuel and more expensive to service,” says Forrest. Families and those who need space are well catered for with SUVs and people movers. “For maximum space per dollar, the Honda Odyssey would be the first choice,” says Forrest of the seven-seater that costs $209.83 per week. For a full list of vehicles, visit rac.com.au/runningcosts

Cheapest Micro Car

Mitsubishi Mirage ES 5 SPEED MANUAL

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $14,669 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $31.10 Interest $14.11 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $28.94 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $6.13 Tyres $1.01 Servicing $5.24 TOTAL COST per week $102.73 ANNUAL COST $5,342.21

Cheapest Large Car

Holden Commodore RS 9 SPEED AUTO

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $41,052 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $100.40 Interest $28.55 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $43.08 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $10.90 Tyres $2.20 Servicing $7.88 TOTAL COST per week $220.44 ANNUAL COST $11,463.12

August-September 2018 / Horizons

MOTORING

Cheapest Light Car

Cheapest Small Car

Cheapest Medium Car

Suzuki Swift GL

Kia Cerato S

Skoda Octavia 110 Tsi

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $17,990 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $38.75 Interest $14.21 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $20.56 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $6.26 Tyres $0.90 Servicing $7.23 TOTAL COST per week $106.73 ANNUAL COST $5,550.04

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $19,990 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $52.30 Interest $15.77 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $16.91 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $9.27 Tyres $1.13 Servicing $6.22 TOTAL COST per week $123.33 ANNUAL COST $6,413.08

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $33,190 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $78.44 Interest $23.12 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $33.75 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $7.46 Tyres $2.00 Servicing $8.10 TOTAL COST per week $175.80 ANNUAL COST $9,141.40

Cheapest People Mover

Cheapest Sports Car

Cheapest Small SUV

Honda Odyssey VTi

Mazda MX-5 Roadster

Suzuki Vitara RT-S

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $41,942 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $89.13 Interest $29.16 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $42.34 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $9.92 Tyres $1.40 Servicing $10.00 TOTAL COST per week $209.83 ANNUAL COST $10,911.12

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $38,107 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $77.13 Interest $26.51 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $41.57 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $9.18 Tyres $1.26 Servicing $7.53 TOTAL COST per week $186.67 ANNUAL COST $9,706.90

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $24,990 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $58.13 Interest $19.66 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $24.97 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $7.83 Tyres $1.40 Servicing $7.88 TOTAL COST per week $142.26 ANNUAL COST $7,397.30

CONTINUOUS VARIABLE

Horizons / August-September 2018

6 SPEED AUTO

7 SPEED AUTO

6 SP AUTO

MOTORING

Cheapest Medium SUV

Cheapest Large SUV

Cheapest All Terrain SUV

Haval H6 Premium

Subaru Outback 2.5i

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GLX

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $29,990 ANCAP safety rating Not rated STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $71.51 Interest $20.91 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $27.25 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $14.05 Tyres $1.57 Servicing $9.98 TOTAL COST per week $178.75 ANNUAL COST $9,295.05

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $40,173 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $82.24 Interest $27.94 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $42.21 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $10.47 Tyres $2.15 Servicing $11.34 TOTAL COST per week $207.68 ANNUAL COST $10,799.22

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $49,719 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $102.12 Interest $31.83 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $44.83 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $10.75 Tyres $2.03 Servicing $9.27 TOTAL COST per week $229.68 ANNUAL COST $11,943.59

Cheapest 2WD Ute

Cheapest 4WD Ute

Cheapest Plug-in

Mitsubishi Triton GLX

Mitsubishi Triton GLX (4X4)

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV LS

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $39,138 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $86.02 Interest $27.22 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $40.07 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $10.08 Tyres $1.32 Servicing $8.09 TOTAL COST per week $198.29 ANNUAL COST $10,311.04

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $42,994 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $97.50 Interest $29.89 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $41.86 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $10.21 Tyres $1.32 Servicing $8.11 TOTAL COST per week $214.57 ANNUAL COST $11,157.74

ON-ROAD PRICE (est) $55,904 ANCAP safety rating  STANDING COSTS per week Depreciation $135.93 Interest $35.77 On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship $43.19 RUNNING COSTS Fuel $5.49 Tyres $2.42 Servicing $7.82 TOTAL COST per week $251.21 ANNUAL COST $13,062.99

6 SPEED AUTO

5 SPEED AUTO

CONTINUOUS VARIABLE

5 SPEED AUTO

8 SPEED AUTO

1 SPEED AUTO

August-September 2018 / Horizons

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LET IT

With one in four roofs in WA now sporting solar panels, a quiet revolution is underway as more West Aussies plug in to our abundant sunshine. By Rebecca Martin

Joining the ranks of more than a quarter of Western Australian households, around 18 months ago, engineer Miguel de la Mata decided it was time to put solar panels on the roof of his home in East Victoria Park. He believes the panels, a 3kW system, will have paid themselves off by the end of the year. Not that he’s counting too hard. “They’re working just as they’re supposed to do, and it’s very much set and forget. “Our power bills have come down significantly which is great, so we are saving around half of what our electricity bills used to be. “My wife works from home, so she uses energy during the day, and that’s where the major savings come from.” Around 2000 West Australians are each month coming to the same conclusion, with that many solar panels plus being added to rooftops.

Dermot Costello from the Clean Energy Council says the solar boom, which now has around one in four homes in WA making energy out of sunshine, still has some way to run.

These days it only takes between two and four years for the panels to pay themselves off. “We definitely have not hit saturation point. More and more consumers are demanding control over their own power. “Across the board we now have very credible manufacturers producing high quality products.

“The price of panels has come down significantly, between 70 to 80 per cent, which makes it more affordable. “We’re also seeing people that traditionally wouldn’t be able to access solar, like those in apartment blocks or strata – there are a lot of products coming on to the market for them.” For the average home without a pool – and an energy-hungry pool filter – solar panels of up to 3kW usually do the job, says Tristan Berentzen, RAC’s head of business development, energy. He says these days it only takes between two and four years for the panels to pay themselves off. “When solar first started out, it took around 10 years for panels to pay themselves off, which is similar to what it is now for [energy storage] batteries for the home, which are relatively new to market and still not at their peak,” says Berentzen.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

YO U R R A C

Clayton Jauncey

“That technology will mean that even those who can’t afford solar panels or batteries will be able to benefit.” “However when a home owner works out that the solar panels can pay themselves off as an investment over such a short period of time, and then you have the ongoing benefits of smaller power bills for the long-term, it’s a pretty attractive option.” Costello says in terms of control over our own power, solar is only the first step. “The second step will really be the batteries, so you can store the power you don’t use during the day. However at the moment batteries are really just too expensive for most people – there are probably only a few hundred people in WA that currently have a battery installed at home.”

Clayton Jauncey

ABOVE: Miguel de la Mata

Horizons / August-September 2018

Within the next two years we’ll see more people manage their own personal power consumption in real time, says Costello, when smart meters in the home will tell people exactly what is chewing through the power and what is not, so they can turn things on and off.

“That ability to control the flow of your power is really the third step. So you can manage the power used on your white goods or pool pumps to make sure they are on at the same time as your panels are generating electricity.” Also coming will be the ability for homes to sell their solar power to each other through peer-to-peer trading. Trials are currently underway with a strata trial in North Perth and a trial by WA company Power Ledger in White Gum Valley. “Peer-to-peer trading will mean that the 10 houses on the street that are generating their own solar will be able to sell their power to the house on the street that isn’t, likely at a lower cost than through the grid. So the house without solar panels will still get the benefits of solar panels on the roof.

YO U R R A C

Solar uptake in metropolitan Perth 2013-2018 Percentage of homes with solar within each postcode 10% or less

2013

Joondalup

2018

Joondalup

11% to 20% 21% to 30% Perth

Perth

Fremantle

31% to 40% Above 40%

Systems under 10kW. Source: APVI and University of New South Wales, 2018.

“That technology will mean that even those who can’t afford solar panels or batteries will be able to benefit.”

power generated during the day when no one may be home to use it, so it can be used in the evenings.

With more power being generated on rooftops instead of traditional coal and natural gas fired power plants, what this change means for the electricity grid and how we generate power for the wider network is now under discussion.

Miguel de la Mata is just one of many that are keeping an eye on the metrics of when batteries for the home will make sense financially.

While those like Costello see solar feeding into the grid as the opportunity to move away from some traditional energy sources like coal and natural gas, others are concerned at the fluctuations of solar power being fed into the grid and how that is managed to ensure a stable supply.

“As soon as you do solar you start saving money, so the sooner the better. For anyone in WA it really is a no brainer.”

One thing that will relieve the burden of solar being fed into the grid is more batteries in the home to store solar

“Once it’s more affordable, getting a battery will be the next step,” says de la Mata.

Fast facts Top 10 Perth postcodes for solar 6181 (Stake Hill)

59%

6034 (Eglinton)

50%

6121 (Oldbury, Oakford)

49%

6038 (Alkimos)

47%

6123 (Whitby, Mundijong)

45% 6083 (Gidgegannup, Morangup) 43% 6155 (Canning Vale, Willetton) 42% 6172 (Port Kennedy)

41%

6124 (Jarrahdale)

40%

6074 (Sawyers Valley)

39%

RAC members save Systems under 10kW. Source: Australian PV Institute (APVI), 2018.

Members can now save 5%* on a home solar power and/or battery storage system from Infinite Energy. Visit energy.rac.com.au

August-September 2018 / Horizons

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Nambung National Park south of Cervantes Michael Goh Using an app to determine where the Milky Way core will rise, photographer Michael Goh took this single image standing on the crest of a sand dune holding a remote flash unit high in the air. ď &#x161; astrophotobear.com

SHOOTING FOR THE

STARS Taking advantage of our pitch-black night skies, Western Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s astrophotographers are stepping into the light, producing stunning photos of our starlit State. By Vanessa Pogorelic

Horizons / August-September 2018

YO U R R A C

You don’t have to travel far from the bright lights of our cities and towns to see a natural wonder many of us take for granted – the incredible blanket of dazzling stars in ours skies. But there is even more magic up there beyond the light that reaches the naked eye. So a growing group of WA photographers are turning their cameras skyward to capture it. Astrophotography, or shooting ‘nightscapes’, involves finding a suitably dark place with a sweep of twinkling stars overhead, setting your camera on a tripod and leaving the camera’s shutter open, sometimes over several hours.

Lake Brown, Merredin Michael Goh

As light slowly enters the camera, an image gradually forms from the darkness on the camera’s sensor. WA’s dark night skies and wide open spaces make it an ideal place for astrophotography. Photographer Stephen Humpleby’s favourite places to shoot the stars in WA are in the Goldfields and the northern Wheatbelt.

“The weather, the clear, dark skies it’s beautiful. I’m surprised not a lot of people go out there. One of my favourite spots is Billiburning Rock, north of Beacon, on the edge of the desert. There’s a camping spot there and a nice granite outcrop that’s great to shoot.” For Michael Goh, WA’s many salt lakes have been a focus, not just for the backdrop but also the atmosphere and tranquillity. “There’s no one around and when they fill with a little bit of water you can actually stand in the lake and see all the stars shimmering around you.” Here are some of the stunning scenes they’ve been out shooting while the rest of us sleep.

uring summer, this salt lake north of Merredin dries up leaving salt pressure ridges on the surface. D With a crescent moon rising to light the landscape and highlight the textures on the salt lake’s surface, this panorama of the Milky Way spans more than 180 degrees.  astrophotobear.com

August-September 2018 / Horizons

Shark Bay, western cliffs Colin Legg Rugged sandstone cliffs have been sculptured over time into stunning shapes. This stretch of coastline is exceptionally dark and ideal for star gazing. The scene is lit by a 20 per cent phase crescent moon, lighting the landscape against the stars of the Milky Way.  colinleggphotography.com

Island Point Reserve, Herron Stephen Humpleby This small island is found just off shore at Island Point in Herron - a sheltered estuary south of Mandurah. The trails of stars appear to be raining down on the island, their reflection creating streaks on the water’s surface.  flickr.com/photos/picturesbysteve

Horizons / August-September 2018

Guilderton Lighthouse Jason Eagle The image is made up of 21 photographs taken in rows and columns to create a panorama. It was shot when the moon was waxing just enough to produce sufficient light to illuminate the lighthouse with the light pollution from Perth creating the backlit effect.  photographywa.com

Lake Ballard Stephen Humpleby Rising from the flat salt lake this hillock creates a great focal point for Humpleby’s star trail image. With the camera’s shutter open for 30 minutes the end result is a series of circular light trails made by the stars as the earth gradually rotates.  flickr.com/photos/picturesbysteve

Fast fact The season for astrophoto-

 graphy in WA is February to

October when the Milky Way is visible in the night sky.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

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Discover the newly developed RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort. Stay in brand new 2 and 3 bedroom family villas or camp in absolute beach front location. Explore the pristine sandy white beaches and rust-red sand dunes in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Shark Bay Region. Meet the friendly dolphins, turtles and other wildlife.

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*Terms and conditions apply. RAC member discount varies according to season. See website for full details.

RAC Parks & Resorts » Busselton » Cervantes » Exmouth » Karri Valley » Margaret River » Monkey Mia » Ningaloo

T R AV E L

Travel brief Goodbye Astor, hello Vasco da Gama

News and info for travellers

More reasons to go north with a revamped Monkey Mia

The Astor has been a familiar sight in Fremantle harbour and has taken many West Australians on their first cruising adventure.

Along with its natural beauty and warm weather, there’s now another good reason to head north during the winter months to explore the wonders of Monkey Mia.

From March 2019 we say goodbye to the Astor and welcome the new Cruise & Maritime Voyages ship Vasco da Gama.

The much loved RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort has reopened after extensive redevelopment.

The ship will be based in Perth and Adelaide from December to March each year from December 2019, offering a traditional scenic cruise experience.

The revitalised resort features new beach-front family accommodation, a spacious campground, 120 powered sites, plus a new large swimming pool and modern camp kitchen.

The ship carries twice as many passengers as the Astor with more ocean-view cabins and more dining, lifestyle and entertainment options, including a cinema, casino, two outdoor pools and retail outlets. To pre-register for Vasco da Gama sailings, call RAC Travel on 1300 655 898 or email preferred.travel@rac.com.au

Q: If I’m only taking a cruise around Australia, will I need travel insurance? A: Many Australian cruises are international vessels. Once you

cross into international waters Medicare no longer covers you, so you will need an international insurance policy. Here’s some other good reasons why it’s better to have travel insurance: ome cruise lines require passengers to have travel S insurance and will deny boarding if it’s mandatory. Your personal items and luggage are protected for loss, damage or theft. If your policy includes cancellation cover you’re also protected if you suddenly fall ill before you go. Some cruises offer on-board adventure activities plus shore excursions which you should get covered for. If your cruise is delayed, your expenses for the extra days are covered. Medical evacuations can be very costly should you need to be airlifted from the ship. Even seeing a doctor on board can be expensive. Read your travel insurance PDS to know exactly what you’re covered for as terms, limits, conditions and exclusions apply to all travel insurance policies. Visit rac.com.au/travelinsurance or call 1300 655 898.

Horizons / August-September 2018

“The expansion and redevelopment really has added a new dimension to the Monkey Mia experience,” said RAC executive general manager Brand and Tourism, Tony Pickworth. “It’s given holiday makers of all ages a new reason to go north and visit this very special part of WA.” As well as the great new accommodation, Monkey Mia’s most famous feature remains unchanged. From the beachfront at the Resort, members and guests can still enjoy a visit from the worldrenowned dolphins who have been coming to say hello to visitors for more than 40 years. Members save up to 20 per cent on accommodation plus RAC has partnered with Regional Express to offer fly/stay packages from just $759* per person. Contact your local RAC Travel Centre 1300 655 179. *Terms and conditions apply

RAC members save up to 20% off accommodation*

HOW TO

WILD FLOWER IN THE WHEATBELT By Fleur Bainger

Beacon

Ever heard of gnamma holes? Know what a verticordia looks like? Fancy meeting a twisted gimlet?

Koorda

Wongan Hills

WA’s Wheatbelt harbours more than grains. Tick off these wildflower curiosities on a country road trip.

Mukinbudin Bencubbin

Dowerin

Trayning Wyalkatchem

Toodyay

Picture the WA Wheatbelt and there’s a fair bet that vast expanses of flat, cropping land come to mind. However, don’t overlook the treasures found in the bush tracts and reserves between the paddocks. North-east of Perth from July onwards tiny wildflowers poke their colourful heads from the scrub, interspersed by granite outcrops often decorated with Aboriginal drawings and the endless crops of wheat. The relationship between flower and rock is a fascinating one.

Perth

The granite formations in this region act as signposts to one of the most ancient landscapes preserved anywhere on Earth, says Rob Davis, an identification botanist with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. “The Yilgarn plateau or craton is one of the first masses of rock that rose out of the sea to form the original landmass of Australia, long before the eastern part of Australia was formed,” he says.

“The granite outcrops today could be best described as land islands that contain their own unique flora.” With 13 free campgrounds along the self-driving trail that loops between Dowerin, Wyalkatchem, Mukinbudin, Beacon and Koorda, as well as nine caravan parks and numerous farmstays, selfcontained accommodation and hotels, heading out for a wildflower adventure is as easy as it is fun. Here’s where to spin your wheels.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

Wheatbelt Way

T R AV E L

Perth to Wyalkatchem Head north-east to Toodyay, where history, good coffee and wildflowers combine for a winning trifecta. Taia Sinclair at the Toodyay Visitor Centre sends nature lovers to the town’s surrounding reserves for a look-see. “Everlastings have a good show in Pelham Reserve,” she says. “A huge variety of orchids can be found mainly at Wongamine Reserve, as well as Dawn Atwell and Julimar Conservation Park.” Pelham Reserve also has a rewarding lookout as well as a native plant garden honouring the colony’s first resident botanist, farmer James Drummond. There are picnic tables between the York gum and jam tree woodlands for an al fresco lunch. Continue towards Dowerin, darting off to Oak Park Reserve, just north of Goomalling, where the intricate verticordia wildflower is found. Its

Horizons / August-September 2018

delicate details are best seen through a magnifying glass, revealing thread-like fronds on the edges of its bright petals. The soft blooms look like something you’d see on a fashion catwalk, contrasting prettily with Dowerin’s agricultural focus, particularly during the well-known Dowerin Field Days on August 29 and 30.

Carpets of everlastings will shimmer hot pink and submarine yellow in the breeze. Dowerin’s name is drawn from the Aboriginal word ‘Daren’, which describes the series of lakes outside the community. One particular water hole, Tin Dog Creek, is worth targeting for its bushwalking trail.

About halfway between Dowerin and Wyalkatchem, pull in to Namelcatchem Nature Reserve. Keep an eye out for orchids, blue leschenaultia and dryandra. “There is often quite a number of kangaroos through that area and other fauna as well, including some very pretty birds,” says Susan Anderson from the Wyalkatchem Community Resource Centre (CRC).

Wyalkatchem to Mukinbudin Wyalkatchem’s CBH Agricultural Museum – housed in a 1936 wheat bin – will attract those with a love of tractors and other early farming equipment, but wildflower hunters may be eager to head directly to Korrelocking Nature Reserve. There, several rare orchid species such as donkey, spider and fairy varieties hide between salmon gum woodlands.

mid-August, flowers are in full colour. By September it’s getting too hot and a lot of the wildflowers have gone. By then you’ll see beautiful wattles, but not as much colour on the ground.

Australia’s Golden Outback Wheatbelt Way

Australia’s Golden Outback

“But in a good year, the wattle just lights the place up. I’ve seen artists pick the flowers and use them for colour on the canvas.” Back on the road, pass through Trayning and on to Billycatting Rock, another granite outcrop ringed by an interpretive woodland trail, where orchids, hibbertia and kunzea are found. On the way to Mukinbudin, you can divert south to Talgomine Reserve where, providing winter rains have soaked the land, carpets of everlastings will shimmer hot pink and submarine yellow in the breeze. Scale Talgomine Rock for far reaching views across the countryside.

Mukinbudin to Beacon

ABOVE: The large gnamma hole at Beringbooding Rock, north of Mukinbudin; TOP LEFT: Koorda Rose; TOP RIGHT: Donkey Orchid, Trayning.

“Many of the really pretty flowers are best seen up close because they are tiny, so it’s advisable to stop and get out of the car and walk,” says Anderson. Slender, twisted gimlet eucalyptus trees give way to clusters of pink everlastings that edge rugged granite mounds harbouring gnamma holes – natural wells used by Aboriginal people and later by Europeans as vital water sources. Fed by underground water and rainfall, they are found in granite outcrops throughout the Wheatbelt. Anderson says the success of any wildflower drive depends on timing –

“ The fading sun picks up the hues of the Wheatbelt landscape, and the reds and browns become a bit more magical.” she recommends you call ahead to the Wyalkatchem CRC to check on the annual bloom. “The season is often earlier than people think,” she says. “It happens soon after the mid-season rains and by

It’s choose your own adventure from Mukinbudin, depending on which way you decide to drive and how much time you have. One of the area’s icons is Elachbutting Rock, to the north-east of town. Similar to Wave Rock in Hyden, a rounded, curling granite tunnel extends for 30m and hides Aboriginal drawings inside caves within its textured, rainbow-striped formations. There’s a walk trail around the rock, which also passes the early-settler’s waterhole, Elachbutting Well, and weaves through wildflowers. Linda Vernon, tourism officer for the North Eastern Wheatbelt recommends camping for free at the rock. “Have a glass of wine on top of the rock at sunset and look at the horizon. The fading sun picks up the hues of the Wheatbelt landscape, and the reds and browns become a bit more magical,” she says.

Beacon to Koorda After plenty of bitumen, you might want to take things easy with a wildflowersprinkled stroll through Beacon Botanical Park. Or head north to the

August-September 2018 / Horizons

T R AV E L bird watching haven of Billiburning Rock, another granite outcrop with wildflowers. Marvel at the grace of wedge-tailed eagles and the communal nature of budgerigars, black cockatoos and purple-crowned lorikeets. Look out for the quirky, star-like borya constricta or borya sphaerocephala, says wildflower expert Rob Davis, which are always found around granite. “They are commonly called the resurrection bush because in summer they turn yellow-orange and look dead,” he says. “They’re in fact dormant and waiting for rain to re-shoot.” On the way to Koorda, keep a keen eye on the roadside: wildflowers often clutch the edges. Among others, the Koorda rose can be found at Mollerin Rocks, north of town, where there’s another free campground. Walk through bushland tracts where kangaroos bounce and echidnas scurry, and catch expansive views from the granite summit.

Koorda to Perth If you happen to be in Koorda on September 1, head for the small town’s annual show which highlights a rich history of making corn dollies. The ancient craft sees dried wheat straws fashioned into doll figures, woven patterns and entwined shapes.

You can also hit up the Koorda museum. Housed in a pre-World War II hospital, it’s full of pioneering relics, historical farm machinery and hospital equipment. For a different kind of nostalgia, if a movie is screening you can park up at the Koorda Drive In and grab some popcorn. En route to Perth, flick the indicator for Wongan Hills. The district counts 1400 different wildflower species, 24 of which are unique to the area. Here, the wildflower season runs from June to December in differing parts, with grevillias, wattles, dryandras, banksias and orchids bursting into a mass of colour. The last weekend of October is the Reynoldson Reserve Wildflower Festival, with diverse wildflower displays, bus tours, markets, food stalls, vintage cars and more. Walk trails on the outer environs of town that lead to the Mount O’Brien lookout (with sweeping views of Wongan Hills Nature Reserve) and Christmas Rock (find the six rare wildflowers varieties and spot roos) are worth fitting in. On the homeward stretch, see if you can count the number of new things you know. From wildflower names to granite formations, there’s far more to the Wheatbelt than just wheat.

Fast facts he region has 13 free T campgrounds with basic amenities such as toilet and picnic facilities. There are several caravan parks including at Dowerin, Mukinbudin, Trayning and Beacon. Dowerin has new short-term accommodation. est time for wildflowers: B August to November is the key season, although in parts it may start as early as July and continue until December. I deal trip length: three to seven days. hat to take: bring breakfast W and picnic supplies, snacks and plenty of water as many towns are small and have limited supplies and opening hours. It’s always wise to carry extra petrol and check that your spare tyre is correctly inflated. very Visitor Centre along the E way has useful local knowledge on the wildflower bloom. For more information on wildflower self-drive and group tours in WA, visit  rac.com.au/wildflowers  wheatbelttourism.com/ wildflowers

Wheatbelt Way

Australia’s Golden Outback

LEFT: Verticordia monadelpha, Reynoldson Reserve near Wongan Hills; BELOW: Amazing Wheatbelt sunsets can be viewed from Eaglestone Rock, north of Nungarin.

Horizons / August-September 2018

BELOW: Medieval fortresses, Lovrijenac and Bokar in Dubrovnik.

HOLIDAYS ON LOCATION

Take a trip to some star attractions made famous on the big and small screen. By Debbie Ward

Whether you’re a die-hard movie or small screen fan, or just enjoy the buzz of spotting a location familiar from film or TV, planning your holiday to take in the sights from your favourite show can add a new dimension to your travel. Here are some British and European destinations where you can follow in the footsteps of the stars.

Horizons / August-September 2018

Dubrovnik, Croatia Game of Thrones

Hugely popular even before its filming boost, gorgeous terracotta-roofed Dubrovnik is best visited in Europe’s spring or autumn to avoid the worst of the crowds. The historic UNESCO-listed city is home to many key locations from Game of Thrones. Medieval Bokar Fortress – King’s Landing itself – is open to the public, as is Fort Lovrijenac, the exterior of which features in shots of Blackwater Bay (in real life the picturesque harbour area of Pile) while its interior doubles for Red Keep.

About nine miles outside Dubrovnik you can skulk among the hedges at Tresteno Arboretum, recognisable as the Red Keep’s gardens, and admire the lovely sea views. Back in Dubrovnik, walk along the top of the medieval walls that encircle the city. There are also great views over the rooftops from the circular Minceta Fortress – the highest point in Dubrovnik and the onscreen House of the Undying. Set sail for the nearby island of Lokrum (or hop on a ferry) and you’ll discover many Qarth locations and can even queue for a selfie in the official Iron Throne, housed in a small museum.

Marco Rubino / Shutterstock.com

T R AV E L

LEFT: Amphitheatre ruins in Taormina as the sun sets behind Mount Etna; RIGHT: The front door of Hugh Grant’s home in the film Notting Hill.

Taormina, Sicily The Godfather

The Godfather’s central family the Corleones actually take their surname from the place in Sicily where the novels are set. However, with the story ranging from 1945 to 1955, the real life town of Corleone was considered too modern for filming in the 1970s. Many scenes were shot in the lessdeveloped villages of Savoca and Forzà d’Agrò near the East Coast resort of Taormina. Bar Vitelli, in an 18th century building in pretty, hilltop Savoca, is little changed since its big screen role, where Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) asks to meet the owner’s daughter Apollonia, whom he later marries at the nearby Chiesa di Santa Lucia. At Forzà d’Agrò, overlooked by a 16th century castle, you can visit the Sant Agostino church that features in several scenes in The Godfather and The Godfather: Part II. Taormina is the island’s major resort, with views of Mount Etna, and a cable car to the beach which is very busy in the summer peak. You can hire a car from here to make your village film locations pilgrimage or join a tour one even takes you in a convoy of vintage Fiat 500s!

Don’t miss Taormina’s 3rd century BC amphitheatre with its gorgeous lofty views and take a peek also at the town’s railway station, which stood in for Bagheria station in The Godfather: Part III.

Notting Hill, London, England Notting Hill

Writer Richard Curtis was a resident of Notting Hill himself when he wrote the screenplay for Notting Hill – the blue door of Will’s home was at the time his own. The flat is at 280 Westbourne Park Road – the same street where Will bumps into Anna. The shop transformed into the bookshop for the film is at 142 Portobello Road but the real travel bookshop that was Curtis’s inspiration is a few doors down. Bella and Max’s house is at 91 Lansdowne Road and the private communal gardens that Anna and Will climb into are Rosmead Gardens. Famous Portobello Road Market features briefly and is well worth a browse. The film was criticised for failing to reflect the area’s ethnic diversity – most apparent at the famous Notting

Hill Carnival, an annual Caribbean celebration that is the largest of its kind in Europe. If you can handle the crowds, visit over the August bank holiday to enjoy the fun. Elsewhere in London, Anna and Will’s dinner date is at swanky Nobu in Mayfair. The final scene press conference is at The Savoy while Anna’s own hotel is The Ritz.

Estoril, Portugal

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service You won’t sweep up in a secretly modified Aston Martin like 007 but you can stay in the very Portuguese coastal hotel that featured in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. The façade of the Palacio Estoril is instantly recognisable from the 1969 movie and though the interiors have been updated, the high standards that Bond expected remain. The pool, which was new at the time, looks the same. Something else that’s still in place is concierge José Diogo who featured on screen as a young bellboy. Bond (played in this film by George Lazenby) supposedly stayed in room 516 and Contessa Teresa de Vincenzo (Diana Rigg) in room 423, though

August-September 2018 / Horizons

S-F / Shutterstock.com

Bond’s suite itself was a studio mock up. 007 also visits nearby Estoril Casino, as can you. It’s no coincidence that Palacio Estoril features in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Author Ian Fleming, himself a navy intelligence officer, stayed here on a mission during the Second World War when it was a hub for Allied spies.

Daniela Staerk / Shutterstock.com

T R AV E L

Though Portugal is better known for its wine and sherry you can drink a ‘007 martini’ (shaken not stirred, of course) in the hotel’s aptly named Spy Bar. Estoril is close to Lisbon so you shouldn’t miss out on this historic capital with its mosaic streets, pastry shops and monuments to early global explorers.

Highclere Castle, Berkshire, England Downton Abbey In the county of Berkshire, to the West of London, you can take tea in Downtown Abbey itself. Highclere Castle, as it is known in real life, is home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and is open to the public over the summer months. This grand mansion was created in the 19th century, partly adapting earlier buildings. Explore the Drawing Room and Dining Room then stroll in the gardens, landscaped by famous designer Capability Brown. A new app, narrated by Jim Carter who plays Carson the butler, tells you more about the Castle’s history, which was a hospital for injured soldiers during the First World War (just like Downton) and a former Earl of Carvanon’s role in the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb. Pre-book afternoon tea in the Coach House and check ahead for themed tours and events that may coincide with your visit. You can even stay on the estate for a couple of nights in its London Lodge.

Horizons / August-September 2018

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Public beach on a beautiful summer day in Estoril, Portugal; Highclere Castle, England; Rannoch Moor, near Glencoe in the highlands of Scotland.

Lallybroch, Scotland Outlander

Time-travelling TV series Outlander is set against a backdrop of real 18th century Scottish history covering the Jacobite rebellion and the Battle of Culloden. Lallybroch Castle is a fictional name but you’ll find the real deal at Hopetoun House near South Queensferry on the outskirts of Edinburgh – regarded as the finest stately home in the country. In Outlander this vast estate doubles as the residence of the Duke of Sandringham. Parts are also used to depict the Hawkins Estate, courtyards in Paris, and Jamie and Claire’s Paris apartment. Lallybroch itself is Midhope Castle in the grounds of the estate, though it is actually derelict inside.

Hopetoun House is open from Easter to the end of September. Don’t miss the red drawing room, featured in many scenes, and ask about fight locations in the grounds. The Craigh na Dun standing stones were faked for the show, but the landscape they stand in is Rannoch Moor in Perthshire, close to the picturesque valley of Glencoe – a tourist favourite and there are genuine standing stones sites nearby.

 Like to visit your favourite film or TV destination? Contact RAC Travel on 1300 655 179.

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DUNCRAIG,

DONE GOOD Daniel Ricciardo is an Australian sporting hero and the pride of Perth. After a big year, all eyes will be on the Red Bull Racing Formula One driver ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix. By Stewart Bell

Horizons / August-September 2018

MOTORING

Genuine and freakishly talented, Duncraig’s Daniel Ricciardo is the talk of the sporting world, especially after his stunning win at the Monaco Grand Prix in May – a remarkable victory after suffering a loss of power for most of the race. His Monaco triumph, along with a thrilling win in China this year, are reasons why Riccardo, after two decades of hard work, has become one of Formula One’s most wanted men.

From Duncraig to Monaco

Although the story could have been quite different.

But every year at the end of the season he returns to Perth to see his family, soak up the Western Australian summer and enjoy the slower pace of life.

As a boy growing up in the Perth suburb of Duncraig, it was originally tennis grand slams rather than podium finishes that Ricciardo dreamed of. “I wasn’t a legend [at tennis] as a kid,” Ricciardo says. “But I was certainly passionate about it and I enjoyed it.” However, with his father, well known Perth businessman Joe Ricciardo, being a motoring enthusiast, he caught the racing bug early. At age nine he started go-karting and at 15 moved up from go-karts and into cars in the Australian Formula Ford series in 2005. After just a few races, and at 16, he earned a scholarship for the 2006 Formula BMW Asia championship, winning two races. By 2009 he was the test and reserve driver for Red Bull. Nine years later, at the time of going to print, he’s clocked up seven F1 victories and is being courted by many of the top teams.

With his talent clear, Ricciardo moved to Monaco in 2013 to focus on F1 and for the ease of travel on the mainly European circuit.

Last year he even donated his Red Bull RB10 Formula One racing car to the Motor Museum of WA at Whiteman Park. It was the F1 car he drove to three wins in 2014, including his first victory at the Canadian Grand Prix.

“ Spectators can see us brushing past the walls in a few places with sparks coming off the cars - it’s quite a spectacle.” When back, he makes time to catch up with old friends and loves to head to the beach from his family home in Duncraig. He’s also a fan of mountain biking and enjoys hitting the bush tracks around Kalamunda and Mundaring. “It’s usually hot when I’m back home so it’s a good workout.”

A challenging year This year’s break was a crucial time for him to begin preparing for the physical and mental assault of a high pressure year, with much expected of Ricciardo this season. Energised by his Monaco victory, in September, he’s hoping to break through at the Singapore Grand Prix. Ricciardo considers the Singapore race one of his home events, along with Australia and Monaco, on account of the home support. He’s made the podium every year since 2014 but never managed to win. “Obviously Melbourne is my home race, but I always get a lot of Australians at Singapore as well. Logistically, it’s easy and a lot of my friends normally come there, so it’s nice being close to home.” For the fans, it’s a special experience with racing at night under lights and plenty happening off the track also, including a line-up of well-known international artists performing on stage. “It’s a street circuit so you can get quite close to the action. Spectators can see us brushing past the walls in a few places with sparks coming off the cars - it’s quite a spectacle,” he says.

Formula One fitness While the crowds are enjoying the action, for the drivers, every F1 race is a brutal test of fitness and endurance.

RAC members save You can see the RB10 car in which Daniel Ricciardo took his first three wins on display at the Motor Museum of WA. Members receive up to 20 per cent off admission.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

MOTORING

Cockpit temperatures can reach 60 degrees Celsius at racing speeds, made worse by three layers of fireproof clothing and a helmet. So it’s no surprise drivers will lose up to 3kg in fluid over a two-hour period. Add to that the extra physical stress of between 5-7 G-forces in the corners and under braking, or when they go wheel-to-wheel with anyone and you get an idea of the kind of intensive training needed. “If I know I’m doing the right things away from the track to prepare well, then I don’t go into a race weekend feeling much pressure at all because I’m comfortable with what I’ve done in the lead-up to it. “The team pay me to get results, but more than anyone I want to do it for me. I’m here to win, and that’s kind of all the pressure I need to put on myself.” The Formula 1 2018 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix will be held from 14-16 September. Visit singaporegp.sg

 For more information about travel to Singapore, contact RAC Travel on 1300 655 179.

Horizons / August-September 2018

TOP: Daniel Ricciardo with his Red Bull RB10 Formula One racing car which was donated to the Motor Museum of WA; ABOVE: Lewis Hamilton leads Daniel Ricciardo at the Marina Bay Street Circuit; BELOW: Daniel Ricciardo’s Red Bull Formula One race car.

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OLD-TIME

CAR SAFETY By Glenn Butler

Car safety has come a long way over 100 years. Here are some of the innovations that revolutionised vehicle safety and some odd-ball concepts that never made it off the drawing board. It seems bizarre that the first car fatality should predate the first car by almost two decades. But when Irish woman Mary Ward died after falling out of, and then being run over by, a steam powered wagon in 1869, her death was actually recorded as a car fatality. It was another 17 years before Karl Benz created his Patent Motorwagen. Ever since Mary’s untimely demise, transport fatalities have been reported and recorded, and in 2013, accounted for more than 1.25 million deaths globally, according to the latest numbers from the World Health Organisation.

Australia’s road toll has been trending steadily downwards since its 1970 high of 3798 in a year. But with more than a 1000 lives lost every year in Australia, we’re still a long way from achieving the national Towards Zero goal by 2020.

Collapsible steering columns Would you drive around with a spear pointed at your chest? In effect, that’s what we did prior to 1968 when the United States raised safety standards to require steering columns to collapse during a crash. Most modern collapsible steering columns work like telescopes, with one sleeve retracting into the other under force, significantly reducing chest injuries in a crash.

Here’s a list of the landmark developments that made our roads safer - and a couple of kooky inventions that (thankfully) never made it to production.

ABOVE: Collapsible steering column

Horizons / August-September 2018

MOTORING

First crash tests There’s some debate over whether the first vehicle crash test was in 1929 or in 1934. However footage exists from General Motors of a 1929 Chevrolet being crash tested into a barrier and the subsequent impact on unrestrained dummies. GM’s own literature says it began crash testing in 1934, so we’ll assume they started with a five-year old vehicle. The results of that first test crash were predictably violent. It’s hard to overstate the influence crash testing has had on car safety improvements. It has resulted in some of the biggest vehicle safety innovations like seatbelts, airbags, collapsible steering columns and crumple zones.

Three point seatbelts American carmaker Nash offered lap seatbelts on a 1949 model, as did Ford in 1955. Saab made lap seatbelts standard on all

models in 1958, but it wasn’t until August 1959 that the first Volvo with a three-point lap-sash seatbelt, invented by Nils Bohlin, came off the production line.

Earliest ABS

“The three-point seat belt is arguably the most important vehicle safety innovation of all,” says Alex Forrest, RAC’s manager of vehicles and sustainability. “Volvo then gave the design an open patent because they believed the seatbelt’s potential to save lives was too important to keep to themselves.”

So it’s no wonder that since the early 20th century many minds have pondered and tested various anti-lock braking systems (ABS).

According to one UK newspaper the three-point seatbelt saved more than one million lives by its 50th anniversary in 2009, although it’s still a message that is hard to get through. In 2016, the American National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that of the 37,461 Americans killed in motor vehicle crashes that year, almost half were not wearing a seatbelt.

When tyres lock up under heavy braking, they cause the vehicle to which they are attached – whether it’s an airplane or car – to skid uncontrollably.

However it wasn’t until the 1970s that ABS began to appear on mainstream vehicles, when Chrysler, together with Bendix, introduced a computerised ‘Sure Brake’ system on a 1971 Imperial. ABS systems are now standard on every new car. “Anti-skid braking systems help vehicle drivers retain braking effectiveness and steering control in emergency and other lowgrip situations,” says Forrest.

Padded dashboards It seems obvious today that any surface an occupant may come in contact with during a crash should be

padded. But until automotive visionary Preston Tucker came along, this wasn’t always the case. Tucker’s 1948 car, the awesomely nicknamed Tucker Torpedo, was ahead of its time in many ways. The rear-engined Tucker Torpedo had a perimeter frame for crash protection, and a roll bar in the roof. The steering box was behind the front axle to reduce steering wheel impact with the driver in a frontal collision. The car had a third central headlight which turned with the steering wheel to light up corners. The windscreen was made from shatterproof glass. The car even had a padded ‘crash chamber’ where front seat occupants could retreat when a collision was imminent. Sadly the Torpedo’s premiere was plagued by problems. The resulting media coverage of that, and an investigation into potential stock fraud by Tucker, killed the project after just 36 cars were assembled.

BELOW: An early rendering of the aerodynamic Tucker Torpedo automobile.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

PhotoQuest / Getty Images

MOTORING Everett Historical / Shutterstock.com

The human crash test dummy Rusty Haight is a quietly spoken former policeman and now director of the US Collision Safety Institute. He has been in more than 990 car crashes. Deliberate car crashes. He is a human crash test dummy, though not surprisingly he doesn’t like the term ‘dummy’. He doesn’t wear a helmet, instead he trusts his life to seatbelts and airbags.

ABOVE: Test of an automobile equipped with a ‘cow catcher’ for the safety of pedestrians in Washington D.C. 1924

The ones that didn’t make it Pedestrian Cow Catcher This is exactly what it sounds like, and we’re eternally grateful that the O’Leary Company’s Pedestrian Cow Catcher never made it into mass production. The March 1931 edition of Modern Mechanix magazine featured this innovative safety device that “literally sweeps a fallen pedestrian before it and thus saves him from being crushed to almost certain death beneath the heavy wheels”. The device worked fine providing the vehicle’s speed was low and the pedestrian was lying prone, presumably asleep on the road. As for pedestrians in

the more typical upright position, well, the Pedestrian Cow Catcher was no help whatsoever. Another version called the safety scoop utilised a huge expanding cloth scoop stored in the bumper bar which the driver activated by a lever.

Rocket brakes used the thrust principle of rockets to slow cars rapidly in an emergency. Rocket propellant housed under the bonnet would jet forward, slowing the car in half the distance.

Rocket brakes

Any unused propellant would continue to “blow off harmlessly” until the tank was empty. Presumably this was not harmless if, despite rocket brakes, you still crashed into a car, or a house, or a person, who was now in front of the expelling rocket.

No, this was not an option on James Bond’s Aston Martin. Thankfully, it never made it to production either because of one small but explosive flaw.

Even worse, should the car roll or flip, there was a chance the propellant would explode violently, potentially scorching everyone within a 50m radius.

But despite the obvious benefits of this evolutionary design, most pedestrians chose instead to stay off the road when a car was approaching.

Horizons / August-September 2018

Rusty says he got into this job “by accident … I was a San Diego Police officer in the Accident Investigation Bureau. Later I took a teaching job in which I performed crash tests as part of a lab experiment.” The sum total of his injuries from 990 crashes and almost 200 airbag deployments is a scar on his wrist from an airbag. Interestingly, Rusty’s expert testimony in 2002 into a 1963 hit-and-run overturned the guilty verdict handed down to West Australian man John Button 40 years earlier. Mr Button had been found guilty of running over and killing his girlfriend in the 1960s and ended up serving five and a half years of a 10 year sentence. In 2002, Haight’s reconstruction of the hit and run, helped raise a reasonable doubt in the appeals judge’s opinion, sufficient to overturn Button’s guilty verdict. RIGHT: Human Crash Test Dummy Rusty Haight

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MOTORING

Motor news

The latest news from the motoring world

By Alex Forrest

Monkey bike swings back Motorcycling enthusiasts have revived interest in the classic Honda mini motor bikes of the 1960s and ’70s, most notably the Honda Z series. Some of these models became known as the Monkey Bike because of the monkey-like postures riders tended to assume while riding them. The 50cc Honda Z Series bike finished production in 2017 after 50 years, but now it’s back with a 125cc engine and slightly bigger proportions. It’s priced at $5999. One of the best known Monkey Bikes was the 1969 Z50A owned by the late Beatles band member John Lennon, which sold for $100,000 in March 2018.

High rollin’ Need an off-road vehicle with excessive luxury, somewhat confronting style and a gargantuan price? Well, meet the Rolls-Royce Cullinan. It’s the brand’s first four-wheel drive, and of course it promises to be the world’s most opulent one. It can be ordered in almost any colour combination, so if you want a purple and teal interior with daffodils inlaid into the wood trim, go ahead, you’ve earned it. The Cullinan is named after the largest diamond ever discovered which now resides in the British Crown Jewels. Australian pricing isn’t available but in the UK it’s the equivalent of $470,000 before on-roads.

Changing times for car buyers The way we buy our cars is changing. With car buyers researching online and becoming less inclined to enter dealerships, increasing numbers of car makers are looking for new ways of getting in front of consumers. Shopping centre dealerships have already popped up in Perth, and you can buy directly from a manufacturer online. There are also arrangements where you don’t have to commit to the one car. In the US, both Porsche and Cadillac offer a kind of polygamous car ownership, where users can take the option of paying a monthly fee and receive access to a number of vehicle models.

Horizons / August-September 2018

Counterfeit bits Counterfeit car parts destined for the Australian market have been discovered by authorities in recent months and reported as posing a safety risk. Vehicle parts labelled as being an original product of the vehicle manufacturer but are not and which have been made more cheaply, are a serious concern. There are, however, many highly credible parts suppliers outside of car manufacturers. Most of these offer high quality parts and accessories and importantly, provide much-needed competition against the prices of car manufacturer parts. Using parts built to the same specification as the original part won’t void your warranty.

MOTORING

Alex Forrest reviews the latest cars

Engine Features Safety Price

Specifications Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol Power: 331kW @ 5500rpm Torque: 550Nm @ 1,850 rpm Claimed fuel economy 8.3L/100km Price: fr $154,400 drive away ANCAP safety rating Not tested

BMW M4 Pure Shock is the only word to describe the response among enthusiasts following BMW’s move in 2014 to replace the M3’s sonorous 4.0-litre V8 with a smaller, 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged six cylinder engine. The V8 in the previous M3 was deemed one of BMW’s engineering masterpieces when it was introduced in 2007, so the move to a smaller engine for the new M3 required a change of thinking for some enthusiasts. However, the six cylinder has its upsides. It has more

power and a lot more torque, is more fuel efficient with fewer emissions, is lighter and has a better spread of torque across the rev range. Back when this new generation M3 was introduced, there was also a change in naming convention. From 2014, the M3 badge would refer to the four-door sedan version while the two-door became the M4. Four years ago the first of the six-cylinder M4s felt heavier and less finessed than the lithe little V8 they superseded. Sure, these earlier M4s were comfortable on the road, but for the track they could have been tauter and more nimble.

Thankfully, the 2018 M4 has been sharpened up significantly, and so has its pricing. BMW has added a Pure edition of the M4 to the range, which is a more affordable version of the M4 with some of the luxury items removed, but with most of the performance gear of the BMW Competition Package retained. The three settings of the adaptive suspension in the M4 Pure (Comfort, Sport, Sport+) have been changed so the Comfort setting in the Pure equates to the regular M4’s Sport mode. So Sport+ in the new M4 is particularly sharp. The Competition pack includes the more powerful

engine (up 14kW to 331kW), stiffer suspension and sports seats, though the M4 Pure gets a unique set of 19-inch black alloy wheels. The term ‘affordable’ depends on your perspective though, because the M4 Pure still costs $154,400 drive away. By new M4 standards, that’s cheap, but by most people’s definition, it’s understandably far from it. For some though, this will be a small price to pay to get what is arguably the best combination of road and track performance we’ve seen yet in this generation of the BMW’s long-running sports coupe.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

Specifications Engine: 2.0-litre turbo petrol Power: 197kW @ 5600rpm Torque: 350Nm @ 2400-5200rpm Claimed fuel economy 8.7L/100km Price: $55,280 drive away ANCAP safety rating  2.0 GT-S tested

Subaru Levorg Sporty station wagons are nothing new, but they have in recent years received a resurgence of interest from exponents of the low-slung long roof who are keen to buck the SUV trend. There’s a tremendous amount to like in this still somewhat under-the-radar category. There’s more space behind the seats than in a hatchback, but the wagon retains far more sporting ability than the physics of a higher-riding SUV would allow. The Subaru Levorg is among a number of options in the

Horizons / August-September 2018

sporty wagon arena, where it competes for sales with wagon incarnations of the Skoda Octavia, the Volkswagen Golf and Renault Megane. Subaru has updated the Levorg for 2018, endowing it with more gear but also making it more affordable by introducing a 1.6-litre turbo version, which is $8000 cheaper than the previous entry level Levorg.

purchase price of $40,580 and at the petrol pump. In the ADR test, the 1.6-litre Levorg uses 7.4L/100km whereas the 2.0-litre needs 8.7L/100km. The cheapest of the 2.0-litre Levorgs, being the 2.0 GT-S, will cost almost $15,000 more, at $55,280 drive away.

At 125kW and 250Nm, the 1.6 turbo’s outputs are notably less than those of the 2.0-litre turbo’s 197kW and 350Nm.

This latest Levorg also introduces some important safety gear, including the option on higher-spec models of a rear view mirror which can utilise the rear camera to see behind the vehicle where the view from the regular mirror is obscured by cargo or passengers.

However, the 1.6 also requires fewer inputs, both in its

This differs from the regular rear camera in that it also can

be utilised while the vehicle is moving forward. It’s called the Smart View Mirror, and the regular or Smart View mode can be selected via a switch on the mirror. All new Levorgs also get active LED headlights, meaning the beams move with the steering inputs. Indeed, the Levorg is now an even more convincing alternative to the myriad SUV options. Especially given the other new addition to the line-up is the rangetopping STI Sport, which gets a dedicated wheel design, badges and other aesthetics, although no performance upgrade.

Specifications Engine: 1.6-litre petrol / permanent magnet synchronous electric motor Power: 104kW (combined petrol/electric) Torque: 265Nm (combined petrol/electric) Claimed fuel economy 3.9L/100km Price: Not available ANCAP safety rating Not tested

Hyundai Ioniq Petrol-electric hybrids cars have been on our roads for more than 20 years. You may even have been driving one yourself. But they’ve changed tremendously in that time. The hybrid vehicle poster child, the Toyota Prius, nowadays uses electric power much more than it did before. It also uses the least amount of fuel it ever has, and is actually quite sporty. Hyundai has now launched its own take on the petrol/ electric hybrid. It’s called the Ioniq, and uses a 1.6-litre

petrol engine that gets a boost from an electric motor, which is powered by a 1.56kWh battery located under the back seats. What sets the Ioniq apart from every other hybrid on the market is that the same vehicle is available with three different drivetrains: the regular hybrid we tested here, the plug-in hybrid which can go up to 50km on battery power only, and the full electric Ioniq. The regular Ioniq hybrid would be classified as a mild hybrid, because the petrol engine is in use almost all the time while driving, with

the electric motor operating mostly in an assistance role, rather than powering the vehicle by itself.

but pricing wasn’t available at the time of writing.

Also setting the Ioniq hybrid apart is its transmission, which is a dual clutch unit as opposed to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in most other hybrids.

Combined, the petrol and electric propulsion in the regular hybrid Ioniq make 104kW and 265Nm of torque. Its fuel consumption in the ADR test is 3.9L/100km – just over the Prius’s 3.4L/100km.

While the Ioniq can surge a little at parking speeds (a common trait of dual clutch transmissions), the upside is it changes gears in a stepped pattern and doesn’t make the petrol engine drone, like CVTs can.

By small car standards, the Ioniq hybrid is very well equipped. It has Hyundai’s SmartSense safety package which includes autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, lane keep assist and rear cross traffic alert.

Hyundai have said all three versions of the Ioniq will be made available in Australia,

More importantly, this is just the beginning of Hyundai’s low emissions vehicle onslaught.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

Specifications Engine: 1.8-litre petrol Power: 105kW @ 6500rpm Torque: 172Nm @ 4300rpm Claimed fuel economy 6.9L/100km Price: $38,230 drive away ANCAP safety rating 

Honda HR-V VTi-L Honda’s HR-V remains a spacious, wellfeatured small SUV from a brand consumers continue to associate with reliability and even a little aspiration. The HR-V still provides solid competition to the leaders in the fizzing small SUV market segment. In Western Australia, the top three are, in descending order, the Mitsubishi ASX, Mazda CX-3 and the Hyundai Kona. However, the HR-V remains behind these sales leaders. Reasons could be that it is

Horizons / August-September 2018

slightly more expensive than the competition, and more conservative looking than the Kona or the CX-3. Where the HR-V does very well, especially in the higher spec VTi-L variants, is in the quality and practicality of its interior, including the VTi-L’s leather seats. The HR-V’s practicality is class-leading because of both the size of the boot and the flexibility of the seat folding options. Honda calls this its “Magic Seats”. While not truly magical, such as being able to disappear or correctly predict lotto numbers, they are still

intelligently designed to make the best use of the space available. It’s also worth noting that no HR-V is available with all-wheel drive – they are all front-wheel drive. Also, as part of a 2017 update, the HR-V now has sat nav as standard across the range. That can’t be had as a built-in feature in entry level versions of the ASX, Mazda CX-3 and Kona. This is something of a turnaround for Honda, which in several models has previously required drivers to bring their own sat nav in the form of a smartphone.

Up front, the interior centre console, with its two parallel bars, is a dominant feature and it works well both stylistically and practically. The switchgear is angled slightly towards the driver. Also, with the driver’s seat adjusted for a 190cm tall driver, there was still ample legroom immediately behind it. You certainly can’t say that about all small SUVs. Pricing for the HR-V starts at $26,490 drive away, though for the higher spec variant we tested, at $38,230, you could also get the larger Honda CR-V VTi-S.

MOTORING

Ask the

Car doctor

Our experts answer your questions

Write to us and win If your question is published, you will receive from RAC Travel a copy of the UBD Gregory’s 2018 Perth and Surrounds Street Directory, which includes new streets and suburbs, petrol station locations and more. Send your questions to: The Car Doctor, Horizons GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839 or email editor@rac.com.au Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number with your query. If your question is chosen for publication, please allow up to eight weeks for delivery. See page 80 for terms and conditions of entry.

I just had my car fitted with four new tyres. It was suggested that I could have them filled with nitrogen instead of air. Could I have an opinion on this? The claim is that tyres stay inflated for longer, fuel consumption can be improved and tyres last longer. Dominique Griffiths, Rockingham Pure nitrogen has some advantages over air for racing car tyres, where exact pressures are absolutely critical, but the use of pure nitrogen for road car tyres is less essential. Regular air is already 78 per cent nitrogen, so paying extra for pure nitrogen would be poor value for money given the imperceptible difference it would make. Using pure nitrogen may mean your tyres will lose pressure slightly more slowly over time, but it’s still cheaper and more convenient to just check your tyre pressures once a fortnight.

I was told any car should be serviced and the oil changed every half year to avoid costly repairs and engine wear. The manufacturer’s recommendations are every year or every 10,000km. I was told those recommendations are only to maintain the car to last the warranty period and thereafter manufacturers aren’t responsible for warranty repairs and engine wear. Do manufacturers gamble on these service recommendations and play the customer to do the minimal repairs and hope for the engine to wear out early or is my service centre trying to get me in for a service earlier than required? Markus & Ursi Israng, Bedfordale Manufacturers stipulate servicing intervals so consumers get a reasonable balance between the cost of running the vehicle and optimising its serviceable life. In some circumstances a vehicle manufacturer may still be obliged under Australian Consumer Law to repair a vehicle where there is unreasonable and unforeseen maintenance required outside the warranty period. Where the vehicle is in normal use, you should follow the manufacturer recommended service intervals.

We have a 2014 Ford Focus, purchased new, which has had significant problems with the dual manual clutch transmission. Symptoms include shuddering, loss of power when overtaking and the vehicle not remaining in gear when stopped on a hill. We have had two offers to buy it back at significant cost to us but were not prepared to pay any further monies to Ford. We would appreciate any advice on this. Irene & Ian Flynn, Canning Vale There are known systemic issues with the Ford dual clutch transmission (otherwise called the Powershift transmission) on vehicles supplied to the Australian market. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) launched proceedings against Ford on this issue which, in April 2018, resulted in a court order for Ford to pay $10 million in penalties. If you lodge a complaint with Ford’s independent complaints review program, you may be eligible for a more equitable outcome. Visit accc.gov.au

RAC members can take advantage of our Motoring Advice Line. If you have a motoring question call 13 17 03 Monday to Friday between 9am and 4.30pm to speak to one of our experts.

Horizons / August-September 2018

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YO U R R A C

People, places, prizes and RAC news

Bald is not the new black Momentarily losing control of your car as it skids on a wet road is an unnerving experience. It also highlights how much work your tyres do to keep you safe.

Horizons / August-September 2018

More than 80 per cent of RAC Auto Services technicians say that dangerously bald tyres are one of the most common problems they come across in the workshop. Don’t under estimate the job your tyre tread does. Those grooves in the rubber remove water from the contact patch that connects the tyre and the road, enabling grip and traction. It’s this grip that allows you to accelerate, steer and brake safely – the essentials that keep your vehicle under control and the people in and around it safe. Driving on bald tyres can make it difficult to stop quickly when you need to apply your brakes firmly and may even cause your car to skid out of control on a wet road. The more worn your tread becomes the more your vehicle handling changes, increasing the risk of you losing control.

Bald tyres are often old tyres which can develop other issues such as cracks and bulges in the sidewall. This kind of damage combined with underinflated tyres could result in a tyre blowing out as you’re driving. It’s the reason why there’s a legal minimum tread depth of 1.5mm in Australia. Brand new tyres come with 8mm of tread and it’s recommended you change your tyres when the tread gets down to 3mm. Check the wear indicator bars moulded into your tyre tread. If the bars are visible or the tread has become invisible in places it’s time for new tyres. Need new tyres? RAC Tyres will come to your home or workplace. Call 1300 651 042 or book at rac.com.au/mobiletyres

YO U R R A C

Solo traveller? Not anymore Exploring a new destination by yourself can have its advantages, but it’s also nice to be part of a group trip without feeling like a third wheel to other couples. As a solo traveller, travelling with a group gives you the freedom to relax knowing that your day-to-day logistics are taken care of. You can focus on taking in your new surroundings and making new friends with likeminded people. RAC Travel has created a series of group holidays specifically for solo travellers, with extra discounts for members.

Design a Christmas float competition There is one group of creative minds who know a good looking Christmas float better than anyone else and this year we’re enlisting their help to create a new float for the RAC Christmas Pageant. We’re asking all primary schoolaged kids in WA to help design the new ‘Christmas under the sea’ float which will feature for the first time at this year’s Pageant.

Our young float designers can either draw the elements in their float separately or combine them into one final design.

The float could include coral reefs, anemones, fish, whales, dolphins, shipwrecks – anything under the sea but with a Christmas twist.

Get your kids thinking and drawing now for the chance to play a special part in this year’s RAC Christmas Pageant, which takes place on Saturday 1 December.

Winners will also have the chance to take part in this year’s Pageant.

For more details visit rac.com.au/pageant

Win with RAC Little Legends Club® RAC Little Legends Club® is giving away $1000 worth of prizes to three lucky families, including your choice of: Bike or skateboard voucher ZONE BOWLING family pass AQWA family experience

See what’s on offer at rac.com.au/solos or contact RAC Travel for more details on 1300 655 898.

Movie tickets BOUNCE or Gravity family pass And much more!

To enter simply join RAC Little Legends Club®, RAC’s free road safety program for primary schoolaged kids. Already a member? You can still enter. Visit littlelegends. rac.com.au/competition Competition ends 21 September 2018. Terms and conditions at littlelegends.rac.com.au/competition.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

YO U R R A C

WA’s most popular cars – was yours on the list?

Top five car brands insured by RAC 1

Retailing at a tad over $1 million, the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead was the most expensive car on sale in Perth in 2017. Last year a total of six local buyers splurged on a shiny new Rolls Royce.

Toyota

2 Holden 3 Hyundai

At the other end of the spectrum was the Toyota Corolla. Once again it was WA’s most popular passenger car, according to figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, with sales in excess of 3000 last year and a more modest price of around $20,000. With a Rolls Royce budget you could buy 53 of them. Given its popularity with buyers, it’s no surprise that Toyota was also the most popular car brand insured by RAC last year. The second most popular brand we insured was Holden, followed by Hyundai, Ford and Mazda. And while the choice of car makes and models on sale is huge, the choice of transmissions is becoming a little one-sided. In 2017, just 27 per cent of the cars we insured had a manual transmission while 73 per cent were automatic.

4 Ford 5 Mazda

Manual vs automatic cars

27% manual

73%

automatic

To check out the cars that were most popular in WA in 2017, visit rac.com.au/2017cars RAC Insurance, 2017

Your own security guard Waking up to the piercing sound and flashing lights of your home alarm is always distressing. But what happens next? If your system is monitored, the monitoring station will quickly respond by actioning the instructions you have already have provided. This can include a combination of calling your nominated contacts, which could be other family members. It could also include immediately sending a patrol guard to your home.

Horizons / August-September 2018

A patrol guard service is especially useful if you’ll be away for a period of time. Special instructions can be set up which can include providing keys for them to access your home. Patrol guards are highly trained to deal with break ins. They will check the perimeter of your home for signs of entry and, if you’ve provided keys and alarm codes, they can check inside and reset your alarm if all is well. If an intruder is still there, the guard will advise the RAC Security monitoring station who will call the police. If you’d like to know more about home alarm monitoring and patrol guards, call RAC Security on 1300 132 735.

Make the most of the great everyday savings you get as an RAC member. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discounts on travel, fuel, gas for your home, mobile plans, groceries, entertainment, dining or RAC products and services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; RAC members save every day.

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Want to buy a solar power system, but confused by who is selling what? Good news, RAC and Infinite Energy have teamed up to make solar power savings simple for you. As a RAC member, you now save 5%* on solar power and battery storage systems supplied by Infinite Energy. As a Clean Energy Council approved installer, Infinite Energy guarantees high quality installation and service so you have a solar power system to match your home and get the best electricity bill savings possible.

R16346

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August-September 2018 / Horizons

visit rac.com.au/mb for more

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Save 4 cents per litre at Better Choice Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership Show your RAC membership card at any Better Choice service station to save, including the new station in Margaret River.

Visit rac.com.au/betterchoice Terms and conditions apply. RAC members will receive 4 cents per litre off the pump price of fuel, diesel and LPG, maximum 120 litres per transaction. Only available for RAC WA members at participating Better Choice Fuel stations in Western Australia. To qualify, a valid RAC membership card or digital RAC membership card must be presented at time of purchase. Offer not valid in conjunction with a shopper docket or any other fuel discount unless specified including Pumacard, Motorpass, Motorcharge or any other fuel card (WEX, Country Age Pension Fuel Card). Offer valid from 1 August 2017 to 4 December 2019.

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Great offers on phone and broadband Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership

Visit rac.com.au/telstra Terms and conditions apply. Offer only available online and not instore. Visit rac.com.au/telstra for further details.

Horizons / August-September 2018

Save at these partners everyday

Members save

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Make Yourself at Home & Save Everyday ENJOY 10% OFF FULL-PRICED ITEMS* AND 5% OFF CLEARANCE ITEMS* On a premium selection of furniture, lighting, bed linen, tableware, gifts, kitchenware and much more from four iconic brands. Present your RAC member card in store at 635 Hay Street Mall, Perth or shop online at rac.com.au/mb *Discount applies to full-priced items online or in Perth store locations only. Extra 5% off clearance applies only to prices ending in $0.95. Full-priced electrical appliances at Williams Sonoma are entitled to a 5% discount only. Offer not valid for limited-time sale items, gift cards, gift wrap, delivery charges or previous purchases. Discount cannot be combined with any other offers, promotion codes or discounts (including New Mover and Trade programs). For full Terms & Conditions, visit rac.com.au/mb.

Make sure you’re ready for anything. You never know what’s going to happen on the road. But with a first aid kit from St John, at least you’re prepared. With kits tailor-made for travel, four-wheel driving, caravans and camping, you’ll stay safe wherever your next adventure takes you.

Visit stjohnambulance.com.au or call 9334 1233 to get yours today.

Members save

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First aid kit offer only available for purchases made via the St John Ambulance WA website or St John shop in Belmont. RAC members must provide their membership number or present membership card at time of purchase to receive the discount. Not valid with any other offer.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

R16369

visit rac.com.au/mb for more

Win a relaxing me holiday to Br

Get new tyres with RACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mobile tyre service and automatically go into the draw to win a fantastic holiday for two. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll come to you and you could be jetting off to Broome! Hurry, offer ends 30 September 2018.

Book today at rac.com.au/winbroome Competition terms and conditions apply at rac.com.au/winbroome. Offer valid for all completed mobile tyre bookings before 30th September 2018. Service provided by RAC Motoring Pty Ltd. MRB 723

Horizons / August-September 2018

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August-September 2018 / Horizons

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Horizons / August-September 2018

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August-September 2018 / Horizons

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Discover South Australia

Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Murray River Package Inclusions and highlights » 3 nights accommodation at the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide » Ultimate Adelaide and Hahndorf Tour » Choice of two tours: Best of Kangaroo Island Tour or Food, Wine and Natural Wonders of Kangaroo Island Tour (from $156 pp extra) » 3 night discovery cruise between Murray Bridge and Walker Flat » Optional tours on cruise: Monarto Zoo Wildlife Tour (extra $60 pp) or Barossa Wine & Heritage Tour (extra $161 pp)

8 days/7 nights » Departs Mondays

from

1,687

per person

Call 1300 655 179, go to rac.com.au/travel or visit your local RAC Travel Centre Price is inclusive of 5% members saving, based on per person and twin share including your choice of cabin on the PS Murray Princess, a Standard Room at the Mercure Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide and either Ozone Hotel (Executive Room with Full Breakfast) or Courtyard Room at Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat (with Continental Breakfast). Selected departure dates apply to all packages and are subject to availability. Subject to further SeaLink and RAC Travel & Cruise terms and conditions. Applecross 6150 6459 » Carousel 6150 6454 » Joondalup 9308 1600 » Mandurah 6150 6456 » Midland 6150 6468 » Morley 6466 2300 » West Perth 9436 4830

Horizons 2018 / August-September 16384 - Travel_Horizons AD_Sealink_MemBen_HPFC.indd

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August-September 2018 / Horizons

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Horizons

Slash your water bill AND get RAC savings valued at $640 on all new

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Call for a quote on 9246 0111 or check us out online virginbores.com.au *Subject to obligation-free site visit. Other depths & pump configurations recommended/available as required. Assumes electrical & reticulation connection nearby & accessible. Valid until 30/9/2018. Must be claimed at time of quotation. Not valid with any other promotion or discount.

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Gap Free Whitening Kit & Custom Made Whitening Trays valued up to $409 with every Dental Check Up & Clean Phone 9381 3791 or book online www.dentalesthetique.com.au/rac before September 30th 2018 for your chance to win a stay at RAC Karri Valley Resort – See page 62 lising Specia er al n in Ge etic & C osm tr y Dentis 324 Churchill Ave, Subiaco WA 6008

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» Members get gap free whitening kit & custom made whitening trays with every dental check up & clean valued up to $409*

» Members receive 20% off* Horizons / August-September 2018

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Horizons

· Free Quotes · Gutters and Downpipes

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If purchasing or selling your home or rural property, Floreat Settlements offers RAC Members $600 settlement fees for Sellers and $850 settlement fees for Buyers plus govt fees and disbursements*. LIMITED TIME ONLY. REGISTER NOW.

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» Members save $500 off the Redback Inverter Generator* 78

August-September 2018 / Horizons

Terms & conditions Car Doctor, page 57 Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winners) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a 2018 Perth and Surrounds UBD Street Directory, valued at $39.95. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winner will be notified by email, telephone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in August/September Horizons must claim their prize by 12 September 2018. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Contact us Winning Letter, page 08 Entrants may submit more than one entry. One entrant (winner) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance valued at $180. If the winner already has Roadside Assistance, the Classic Roadside Assistance will be applied as credit to their account until their cover runs out. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winner will be notified by email, phone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in August/ September Horizons must claim their prize by 12 September 2018. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of the Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) 832 Wellington Street, West Perth GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839 tel: 13 17 03 rac.com.au Member Service Centres – Metropolitan Carousel Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. Morley Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. West Perth (Head Office) 832 Wellington St. Member Service Centres – Regional Albany 110 Albany Hwy. Bunbury Shop 32, Stirling Centre, Stephen St. Geraldton Shop 8, Stirlings Central SC, 54 Sanford St. Kalgoorlie 51-53 Hannan St. Mandurah Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way. Travel Centres Applecross Shop 2, 14-16 Riseley St. tel: 1300 657 681 Carousel Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. tel: 9365 4700 Joondalup Lakeside Joondalup SC (external), Shop 24, Boas Ave. tel: 9308 1600 Midland Shop 100, Midland Gate SC, 274 Great Eastern Hwy. tel: 6150 6468 Mandurah Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way. tel: 6150 6456 Morley Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. tel: 6466 2300 West Perth 832 Wellington St. tel: 9436 4830

Full terms and conditions for each competition available at rac.com.au/competitions For details of winners from our past promotions, visit rac.com.au/horizonswinners We’ve recently made some changes to our Privacy Policy. Mainly, we’ve simplified some of the language, clarified some points, and removed some parts that were either unnecessary or redundant. Please visit rac.com.au/privacy

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August-September 2018 / Horizons

YO U R R A C

Ten best

Do you have an idea for The 10 Best? Send your suggestions to editor@rac.com.au

Tourism Western Australia

Food trails Albany Picnic Provisions Trail Don’t forget your picnic basket – you’ll want to fill it up. This trail is all about seasonal produce and picnic spots. Start in town at the Albany Farmer’s Market and make your way past stops like Wignalls Winery, Handasyde Strawberries, Millbrook Farm Fresh and Wilson Brewing.

Bickley Valley Nestled in the Perth Hills, enjoy the slower pace with a trail visiting local wineries, most of which offer picturesque spots for lunch or afternoon tea, like Vineyard Kitchen at Brookside, Fairbrossen Café and Winery and Core Cider House where you can pick your own fruit.

Blackwood Valley This scenic drive is as historic as it is tasty. The triangular loop between Balingup, Nannup and Bridgetown gives you boutique stores, wineries, honey, and chestnuts. Head a little further to Boyup Brook to tour Blackwood Valley Beef and up to Donnybrook for sweet apples.

Denmark This slice of the south coast is packed with quality local produce. Start in town at Mrs Jones Café on Mt Shadforth Road and head out of town to places such as Denmark Farmhouse Cheese, lunch at The Lake House or Rockcliffe and honey ice cream from Bartholomews Meadery.

Manjimup and Pemberton This area is a much-loved food bowl. The famous black truffles are grown in Manjimup, so make the Truffle and Wine Co one of your first stops for samples or even a meal. There are plenty of places to take home a tipple, stop for fine food, or pick up fresh fruit.

Chocolate at Margaret River Chocolate Company in Swan Valley

Margaret River (by car) While there are so many places here where you can indulge, Tom Cullity Drive is a great start. With stops for savoury jams, nougat and chocolate, you can sample to your heart’s content. At the end of the road is Vasse Felix, where the first commercial vines of the region were planted.

Margaret River (by bicycle) Cycling this trail gives you an excuse to indulge. Start with coffee at the Hairy Marron Bike Café, ride along the riverbank and grab your picnic supplies at the Larder. Pedal to Cape Mentelle to feast on your goodies and work them off on your way back to the city centre via the Margaret River Distillery Company.

Mount Barker Sip on a cup of tea and admire the Stirling and Porongurup ranges. The restaurants on this loop, which starts

at the Mount Barker Visitor Centre, produce top local food that you can enjoy against a backdrop of rolling hills. Maleeya’s Thai Café and Studio is a spicy favourite with the locals.

Swan Valley

There are many opportunities here to satisfy both your savoury taste buds and your sweet tooth. There’s nougat and nuts, handmade chocolate, pure honey and French macarons from Caversham to Herne Hill. Source one of everything and head down to the Swan River for a picnic.

Gascoyne Food Trail

As part of the Gascoyne Food trail, visit Carnarvon for its seasonal produce. Drive on the locally named “Fruit Loop” trail to find mangoes and bananas then on to seafood straight off the boat at Pickles Point Seafood and fruit ice creams at Morels Orchard. The Gascoyne Visitors Centre can point you where to go.

August-September 2018 / Horizons

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