Horizons February/March 2023

11:30am friday. your favourite rest spot

It’s easy to say yes to adventure when you have your rock by your side. He’s always been your greatest supporter, giving you the confidence to leave your comfort zone. This week’s challenge? Hiking up Frenchman’s Peak. You might not make it all the way to the top, but you’ll give it a go - your knees and will are strong. And think of the selfie. The grandkids would be delighted. For road tripping with your best friend, there’s no place like Dôme.

Perth Metro, WA Regional: Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Esperance, Geraldton, Katanning, Margaret River, Newman, Northam, Port Hedland, Rottnest.

HORIZONS

ADVERTISING

Gail Raj (WA only) T: 08 9388 7844 E: gail@mediatonic.com.au Lauren Casalini T: 03 8520 6444 E: laurencasalini@hardiegrant.com

CONTACT US

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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.

A W

Your membership is helping for the better change

In 1909, RAC put up the first road signs in WA. In 1970, we advocated for the compulsory wearing of seatbelts.

In 2015, we opened the RAC Electric Highway®, helping you travel emission-free from Perth to Augusta.

In 2016, the RAC Intellibus® became the first driverless vehicle trial on WA roads.

As an RAC member, you’ve been part of driving WA forward. Your membership has helped change our State for the better, and together there is so much more we can do.

President's message

EDUCATION AND PRACTICE KEY TO PREPARING FUTURE DRIVERS

Inexperience and overconfidence are a dangerous mix. Sadly, this combination is common among our youngest drivers, who continue to be overrepresented in deaths and serious injuries on WA roads. According to the Road Safety Commission, over a quarter of all road deaths are in the 17 to 29 age group.

RAC’s school education program continues to focus on preparing our next generation of drivers for the serious responsibility they will have on our roads and a deeper understanding of the tragic consequences of poor decisions.

RAC bstreetsmart sends a powerful road safety message to year 10-12 students. Delivered in partnership with WA’s emergency services, the annual event held at RAC Arena features a live re-enactment of a fatal crash, response from real-life paramedics, firefighters and police, and first-hand accounts from guest speakers directly impacted by road trauma.

Since launching in 2012, RAC bstreetsmart has reached more than 73,000 students. In 2019, we extended its reach into the regions, with the launch of RAC Project Road Smart® – a crash re-enactment filmed as a docudrama. RAC Project Road Smart has now visited Albany, Broome, Bunbury, Esperance, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Karratha and the Wheatbelt.

Joining RAC bstreetsmart and RAC Project Road Smart®, our long-running school education program, run in partnership with organisations such as the Paraplegic Benefit Fund (PBF) and Network Teach, continues to deliver road safety education to young people across WA. We have also recently started to deliver car maintenance and safety workshops and our anti peer-pressure What’s Driving your Decisions presentation in Perth high schools.

Education programs informing drivers of the risks before they get behind the wheel are critical. Urgent attention is now needed on how much time is actually spent in supervised practice once young drivers get their L plates. More supervised driving in a wide range of conditions helps create safer drivers. Western Australia continues to have one of the lowest requirements in the country, with learners only needing to complete 50 hours of supervised driving. In New South Wales and Victoria the number is 120, in Queensland it is 100 and in South Australia 75.

RAC has been calling for an increase in the Western Australian requirement to between 100 and 120 hours. There is strong evidence to show this works, would be relatively simple to implement, and would have an immediate impact.

If we can get our future drivers to understand the risks early and obtain as much education and practice as possible, we can help create a generation of motorists who can help drive down the level of unacceptable road trauma that occurs every day in WA.

Allan Blagaich RAC President

RAC COUNCIL President

Allan Blagaich

Senior Vice President John Driscoll Vice President Professor Donna Cross OAM

MEMBERS OF COUNCIL

Leanne Bishop

Jill Darby

Professor Ross Dowling AM Tony Evans Roger Farley Stephen Fox Dalton Gooding Kelly Hick Jody Nunn Marie Redman Jacqueline Ronchi Jim Walker

Your feedback

GIVING DRIVERS A

BREAK

While travelling on many country roads throughout WA, my wife and I noticed the disturbing lack of rest stops with basic toilet or picnic facilities. Compare this to many of the highways connecting major towns in Queensland and New South Wales, where rest stops normally have at least a toilet and some wooden tables and chairs. Graham

What to do at an ‘END 110’ speed limit sign

A member asked: When driving on a country road, what does the ‘END 110’ speed sign mean?

In Western Australia, only some roads have posted speed limit signs and all other roads are subject to default speed limits. The ‘END 110’ sign is used at the start of a continuous section of road covered by the default rural speed limit (which is 110km/h) where it is not practicable or desirable to indicate the speed limit beyond that point. This is the case when what’s considered the safe operating speed of that speed zone is substantially lower than the default 110km/h speed limit, such as on a gravel road or where there are hazards such as a railway level crossing just beyond the start of that speed zone. You can continue to drive at up to 110 km/h but you should be aware that the road conditions ahead may require you to drive at a slower speed.

END 110

SEND US YOUR FEEDBACK AND WIN

Send us your opinions and feedback and you could win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance.

@RACWA

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editor@rac.com.au

Terms and conditions on page 81. Published letters may be edited for style and length. While we try to respond to all letters we receive, a response cannot be guaranteed.

CONFUSING PUMP COLOURS

Again, I see a case of using the wrong fuel mentioned on your letters page (Horizons, October/ November 2022). Isn’t it about time the fuel companies got together and standardised the colour of the nozzles for each fuel type and octane, as is done in the UK? Trevor

Hybrid savings

We have been driving a Honda Insight hybrid for the past 10 years. Purchase price was $26,000, slightly used with 900km on the clock. It has done 150,000km of city driving and is still performing well. This car has used about half the fuel of our previous car, a Mitsubishi Colt. That is a saving of about $2500 per year. With current fuel prices the saving is higher. In other words, over 10 years it has saved the original purchase price. The future benefits from electric/hybrid cars are significant when home and solar charging is added, even with potential increases in road user charges. Peter

WE SHARED A STORY ABOUT CARAVAN MANUFACTURING FAILURES WITH OUR FACEBOOK

FOLLOWERS:

Until it’s regulated anybody can build a trailer/caravan up to 4499kg without certification - no qualifications required.

Peter

Thank you for this information as we have been flying blind trusting the manufacturer to rectify issues as they have been directing us to claim on the warranty through companies other than their own. Colin

When you see what they pack into a two-tonne-plus van these days, there’s got to be engineering compromises. TV, air conditioning, solar, gas, toilet, shower, stove, fridge, kitchen sink etc. Something is going to fail. So many I see are on the limit of vehicle tow capability. Mark

I do not know anyone that’s bought a new van without problems, and towing weights are among the biggest problem.

Darryl

Unfortunately, a lot of vans have very low carrying capacity. Add food, water, cooking and eating gear, clothes and bedding and you’re over your load limit and towing capacity for your vehicle.

Peter

This is not new, Aussie vans have not been fit for purpose for many years. Neil

VOICE YOUR OPINION

Join RAC’s Members’ Voice, an online community where members can share their views on a range of topics. Visit rac.com.au/opinion

Snapshot

Landmark driverless vehicle now at Motor Museum

When it was first brought to Perth in 2016, the original RAC Intellibus® was Australia’s first driverless vehicle to operate on public roads. It is now part of Australia’s longest-running public trial of driverless vehicle technology.

Over the past six years, thousands of passengers have travelled in that first Intellibus® along the South Perth foreshore, along with those that participated in a demonstration in Busselton in 2019.

As this original model has reached its end-of-life stage, the vehicle has been decommissioned from service and is now on show at the Motor Museum of WA within Whiteman Park.

The Motor Museum display includes rolling videos within the shuttle that capture milestones and highlights. You can also view the computers behind the complex operation of the vehicle. RAC members save up to 10 per cent on entry to the Museum. RAC‘s Automated Vehicle (AV) Program is helping develop a roadmap for how AV technology can be applied to solve road safety and mobility challenges in Australia and providing the public the chance to experience driverless technology.

The RAC Intellibus® trial, which consists of three vehicles, continues to provide a driverless experience in South Perth through the public trial and RAC Imagine Program™.

To find out more, visit rac.com.au/intellibus

DO CITY DRIVERS CRASH MORE THAN LOCALS ON COUNTRY ROADS?

Three in every four serious crashes on regional Western Australian roads involved a local driver either within their own local government area or an adjacent one, according to analysis conducted by WA’s Road Safety Commission.

Analysis from New South Wales and Victoria has revealed similar results.

There may be various reasons for this. For example, while drivers that come from elsewhere may be less familiar with local regional roads and their conditions, local drivers spend more time driving on these roads and so are exposed to the risks for longer.

Test an electric car for a week

The range of opinions about electric vehicles (EV) ranges from excited to confused, all the way to extremely sceptical.

To demystify EVs and give motorists a better view of what owing and driving one is like, we’ve embarked on a six-month trial giving 50 RAC members access to an EV for a full week. Trial participants get to take home a Polestar 2 EV, with some also given the vehicle for two weeks over holiday periods to use on road trips.

The trial wraps up in June when we’ll examine how participants attitudes to EVs were impacted and gain insights about their driving experiences, including the benefits of going electric and also any pain points.

MAKING LOCAL ROADS SAFER FOR ALL

You may have noticed more local roads with blue and white ‘Safe active street’ logos painted on the surface, along with raised platforms at intersections to slow traffic.

It’s all part of the Safe Active Streets Program, designed to improve the safety of all road users and encourage more people to walk and ride.

The Department of Transport worked with more than 23 local government areas in WA to create safer walking and riding routes through suburbs.

Measures being used include 30km/h limits, additional tree plantings, along with single lane slow points, and traffic islands designed to slow car movements to safer speeds. Many streets these changes are being introduced to are connected to wider shared path networks as well as local amenities, including schools, parks and shops, allowing safer access from residents’ homes to those active transport networks.

ESCAPING FROM A CAR TRAPPED IN WATER

In Australia, around 49 per cent of flood fatalities involve vehicles driving in flood waters, according to the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience.

In fast-moving water, a four-wheel drive vehicle can lose stability and risk being washed away in just 30cm of water and for small cars it can be as little as 15cm of water.

A car that has crashed into or been washed into deeper water will initially float then increasingly tilt forward due to the engine weight (which in most cars, is in the front). As the car sinks, water will gradually rise, creating pressure on the doors. Water pressure against the outside of the car will make doors

virtually impossible to open as the water rises. To have the best chance of surviving, occupants must escape through a window.

In modern vehicles, electric windows can become a trap for those trying to escape if the vehicle becomes submerged.

For this reason, the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) is now assessing cars on how easily occupants can escape a submerged vehicle or how easily rescuers can reach those inside.

As part of the ANCAP crash test protocol, vehicles will be assessed on whether windows can open without battery power and if electric windows can still operate for up to two minutes after submergence. 

A new experience for members

It was in 1905, that the first unofficial meeting of the group that would go on to form the RAC was held. It took place in the home of one of its members.

In 2023, we’d like to welcome you to the start of an exciting new era for your club and a whole new space for members to meet.

Our new Member and Community floor, on the ground floor of our West Perth headquarters, has been created in the same spirit that brought our very first members together all those years ago - to be a club with purpose, there for its members.

The Member and Community floor houses an exhibition space for community activations and member information sessions, with a variety of speakers throughout the year.

In our new member lounge, you can wait comfortably before being assisted by RAC people whether you’re there to book travel or need assistance with any other RAC products or services.

Inside the Member and Community floor you’ll also find a cafe with special member pricing. Members with electric vehicles (EV) can use the café while their EV is charging outside.

If you’re nearby and would just like to drop in for a coffee or a bite to eat, we’d love to welcome you. We’ll also keep you updated about special member activities and events.

A new entry to our building is now facing the street at 832 Wellington Street, West Perth. 

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Our new reception area; Relax in our member lounge while you wait to speak to one of our people; The member cafe; Our exhibition area will feature events and information sessions; The cafe courtyard.

RAC’s Best Drives of 2022

By Alex Forrest

If 2021 was the year of aftershocks following the COVID-driven car factory shutdowns of 2020, then 2022 was the year the car industry took its first few steps down the lengthy road to recovery.

As 2022 drew to a close, Western Australian vehicle sales were slightly down on 2021, with supply constraints across many popular models continuing to starve a market still hankering for new product.

Car makers nonetheless continued to launch new models into the Australian market, though those launches were often followed by restricted supply, extended wait times and limited model choices. All of which kept the prices of many used cars inflated. Still, 2022 saw some exciting new arrivals into the Australian market, such as the new Ford Ranger and Everest, the Subaru BRZ and WRX, Lexus NX450h+, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and the new Nissan Z, the Toyota GR86 and the GR Supra with a long-awaited manual gearbox.

The choice of electric cars increased in 2022. We saw the arrival of the BYD Atto 3 small SUV, the Volvo C40, the upgraded MG ZS EV, new Kia Niro, Polestar 2, Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6.

The new Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, Kia Sorento Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Toyota RAV4 Edge Hybrid were among the array of new hybrid SUVs to hit the market, with the new Mazda CX-60 set to launch this year. Also joining the hybrid SUV ranks were the Toyota Corolla Cross, Kia Niro Hybrid, Honda HR-V hybrid, and the Genesis Electrified GV70 to name but a few.

Getting behind the wheel of almost every popular new electric and hybrid vehicle to be launched in Australia over the past year provided us with a unique overview of the increasing breadth of EV and hybrid choices consumers have.

New brands to enter the Australian market included the Volkswagen sub-brand Cupra, Chinese EV manufacturers BYD and GWM’s EV brand Ora. Volvo, which is now Chinese-owned, also launched its EV sub-brand, Polestar.

All these bring more competition to the local market, which will be good news for consumers seeking keen pricing and more choice. But it’s also more cars to weigh up against each other.

We’ve already done some of that weighing up for you. Here are just some of the best new cars we drove in 2022.

Small Car

KIA CERATO GT

PRICE (drive away from) $37,990

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE Hatchback

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 6.8L/100km; unleaded 91 ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 1.6L petrol; 7-speed dual clutch

While the Cerato is in the small car category, you could mount an argument for this GT model to be competing amongst the sports cars. As the top-of-the-range GT model, this Cerato costs $37,990 – more than $10,000 above the cost of the entry level car. But if you choose to regard the GT as a very affordable and practical sporty car rather than an expensive small one, it makes more sense. With a huge boot, 5-star ANCAP safety rating, 150kW and great handling, the Cerato GT stands to keep more people happy than most small cars.

People Mover

HYUNDAI STARIA

PRICE (drive away from) $56,685

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE Van

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 8.2L/100km; diesel ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.2L four cyl; 8-speed auto

When the Staria people mover arrived in Australia in 2021, it wasn’t a moment too soon given the iMax it was replacing had been on sale since 2008. A big positive for Hyundai’s new people mover – apart from being much more passenger focused than its predecessor – is that it’s based on the Santa Fe platform, meaning the diesel versions of the Staria have all-wheel drive. Its safety credentials are good, there’s vast space inside and it’s even okay to drive given its size.

Sports Car

TOYOTA GR86 / SUBARU BRZ

PRICE

$49,010

ANCAP SAFETY RATING not rated

BODY TYPE Coupe

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 9.5L/100km; premium 98

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.4L four cyl; 6-speed manual

The long-awaited launches of the heavily revised new Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ sports cars (which are twins under the skin) did not disappoint. The biggest news surrounding the GT86 and BRZ was its larger 2.4-litre (up from 2.0 litres) engine, which brought a welcome power increase from 147kW to 174kW. It’s a better car in many more ways. It handles more sharply, it’s exhaust sound is deeper and its body shell is stiffer, which assists handling. All of which makes the GR86/BRZ a four-wheeled smile factory.

Small SUV

KIA NIRO HYBRID

PRICE $48,800

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 4.0L/100km; unleaded 91 ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 1.6-litre four cyl/electric hybrid; 6-speed dual clutch

The Kia Niro isn’t the cheapest small SUV hybrid in the market (that’d be the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid at $33,300 drive away), but it does have some of the most innovative infotainment tech. The Niro Hybrid has the latest safety gear and it’s also bigger than many of its small SUV rivals. It drives better than the Subaru XV Hybrid and is markedly more fuel efficient. Other rivals include the similarly priced Honda HR-V e:HEV L Hybrid, and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, which is a plug-in hybrid.

Medium SUV

MAZDA CX-5

PRICE (drive away from) $39,720

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 6.9L/100km (2.0 petrol); unleaded 91

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.0L four cyl; 6-speed auto

Handling improvements, reduced interior noise and harshness levels, and a new variant added to the line-up called the Touring Active were all part of an update applied to the CX-5 in March 2022. Then in November, the Japanese brand announced infotainment system upgrades for 2023 that will include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s 5-star ANCAP safety rating from 2017 is getting old, but its suite of safety features remains comprehensive.

Large SUV

KIA SORENTO HYBRID S

PRICE (drive away from) $74,050

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 5.3L/100km; unleaded 91

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 1.6L turbo four cyl/electric hybrid; 8-speed auto

Only a few years ago, hysterical laughter would have ensued if you’d told people that a large, seven-seater SUV used only 5.3 litres of petrol per 100km in the ADR test. They might still laugh, but now you could point them to the Sorento Hybrid S. The interior is well finished and it’s easy to move and fold seats to where you need them. It’ll fit into a busy family’s life without fuss and stretch out those petrol station stops. Curtin airbags for the third row would be good though. 

Luxury AWD SUV

LEXUS NX450H+

PRICE (drive away from) $100,560

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 1.3L/100km; unleaded 95

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.5L four cyl; CVT

It took them a while, but Lexus now finally has a plug-in hybrid: the NX450h+. It arrived in 2022, about 17 years after the first Lexus regular hybrid hit the market. Like all other plug-in hybrids, the NX450h+ plug-in gives drivers the opportunity to cover more distance on electricity only, provided they charge the battery regularly. As you’d expect of any new Lexus, it’s extremely refined inside. But remember – if you don’t charge the battery, that impressive-sounding 1.3L/100km consumption number will go up quickly.

All-Terrain

SUV

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT

PRICE (drive away from) $47,240

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 8.0L/100km; diesel

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.4L turbo diesel; 8-speed auto

Though the Pajero Sport has been around since 2015, Mitsubishi introduced a rear-wheel drive only version for the first time in early 2022. That brought the entry level price for the Pajero Sport down by around $5000 to $47,240. It offers a high driving position and the looks of an all-terrain vehicle but at a lower cost, which may fit the bill for urban drivers who want those features but don’t need ultimate off-road ability. A smart addition to the all-terrain category, even though it’s really only for some-terrain.

BODY TYPE twin-cab ute

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 8.1L/100km; diesel

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 2.3L diesel 4 cyl; 7-speed auto

After its launch in 2021, we finally drove the Pro-4X Warrior in early 2022. It’s a Navara that’s had some extra beefing up done by the Australian engineering firm, Premcar. Additions include a huge bull bar, white letter all-terrain tyres, increased ground clearance to 260mm (up 40mm), protective bash plates underneath and some tough-looking fender flares. It’s far from cheap, but you won’t need to spend as much at the 4x4 accessories shops.

Electric Car

KIA EV6

PRICE (drive away from) $80,400

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

BODY TYPE Large hatch/SUV

FUEL ECONOMY/FUEL TYPE 165Wh/km (combined); electricity

ENGINE/TRANSMISSION 1 speed (reduction gear)

Following its Australian launch in February 2022, the EV6 was lumbered with supply issues amidst overwhelming demand, and for good reason – it’s an excellent EV. The EV6 is a large, futuristic and fully-featured yet sporty large hatch/SUV where the cheapest model actually has the longest range. The EV6’s suspension has been tuned specifically for Australian roads and drivers, so even the rear drive only version (AWD is also available) is very rewarding to drive. 

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230 Morrison Road, Midvale, WA 6056 08 9274 6161 www.solarmyworld.com.au

HEARING

About seven years ago I found myself reading an advertisement about Brad Hutchinson who has been my audiologist of choice since then. Thinking that it probably was about time I had my hearing checked (entering my 70’s at the time), I contacted his sta for an appointment. I found Brad to be a friendly and knowledgeable man, a great enthusiast for his speciality who explained fully what was going on with my poor high-frequency hearing, addressing any worries I had with the tinnitus I’d su ered from for over 30 years. He explained that he couldn’t cure the annoying tinnitus, but by use of properly tuned hearing aids he could give my brain meaningful sounds so the tinnitus would become less intrusive.

The new hearing aids worked well and my evening walks became lled with the sounds of frogs, cicadas and birdsong, none of which I had heard for many years. It was something akin to being short sighted, managing OK but with a rather

hazy view of the world then putting on a pair of glasses and suddenly everything becoming clear, crisp, detailed and meaningful.

At my annual check-up this year, Brad suggested it could be time to update to a pair of the latest high function digital aids. I couldn’t believe the di erence. There are many features to help me hear very well, but I tend to stick to the ‘normal / restaurant’ setting which is wonderful. It mutes background conversation noise and focuses on the person in front of me. Not only that, it e ectively mutes road noise when driving so it’s far easier to hear passengers, and more importantly, my Wife. She had only one complaint - she got so fed up with me saying how wonderful my new hearing aids are that she is now also the satis ed owner of a pair of hearing aids from Brad. Thank you to Brad and the team at Brad Hutchinson Hearing for changing not only my life but my Wife’s as well.

Stephen Win eld

Register for a FREE hearing aid trial

OPEN FOR ALL YOUR

CARE NEEDS Thank you for changing not only my life but my Wife’s as well.

Changemakers

With a passion for making neighbourhoods more liveable, three Perth locals created a movement that’s now spread across Australia and beyond.

Jimmy Murphy (pictured) along with David Snyder and Dean Cracknell, officially launched the Town Team Movement in 2017.

It began in Perth as groups of businesses and residents joining forces to improve their town centre or main street.

Originally established in the UK, Jimmy, David and Dean saw the enormous potential of Town Teams here and got involved in some of the early inner-city projects.

“Our intention was certainly audacious,” Jimmy says. “We wanted to create a movement and to make Town Teams ‘a thing’. But we certainly underestimated the take up and level of interest.”

Today there are more than 115 Town Teams across Australia and New Zealand. Jimmy also recently won the 2023 WA Local Hero award for his work with Town Teams and is in the running for National Hero.

RAC is the principal partner of the Town Team Movement. For more information, visit rac.com.au/ttm

Delivering on our vision for WA

In 2020, we launched our new Purpose to be the driving force for a better WA along with our Vision for a safer, more sustainable and betterconnected future for Western Australians.

For you, that means safer and more sustainable ways of getting around, and communities that are vibrant and well planned with transport that efficiently connects people and places.

As we continue to work towards our vision for WA, we’ll be tracking our progress and measuring the impacts of the work we’re doing in the community.

To give you an insight into how we’re doing so far, here are the numbers on just some of the activities and initiatives we delivered in 2021/22, working with our members, local communities, governments and like-minded groups.

Safe

On our roads 10,000+ nominations were received for our Risky Roads Survey, with our members and the community naming the roads and intersections they believed were WA’s most dangerous. We use the results of the survey to highlight the community’s safety concerns and call for funding for upgrades to address identified issues. 35,670 WA school students attended our road safety programs and events. 971 people attended our caravan safety sessions as part of our Safe Travels program, and received training on how to safely tow and reverse a caravan.

missions. The RAC Rescue helicopters achieved this mission milestone in 2022.

The RAC Rescue helicopters are sponsored by RAC, funded by the State Government and managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES).

RAC Intellibus® 3,500+ people experienced a ride on board the RAC Intellibus® in 2021/22.

Since 2016, we’ve given more than 25,000 Western Australians the chance to experience driverless vehicle technology by offering rides on board the driverless and electric RAC Intellibus®. The Intellibus® provides free rides along the South Perth foreshore.

Electric vehicles

to green energy.

2020 2021 per day 32

2022, the number of EVs registered in WA was more than 25 times higher than when we first opened the Electric Highway® in 2015. 

Air quality

We launched the most comprehensive air quality sensor network in the country. RAC’s Air Health Monitor will help understand Perth’s current air quality and encourage action to reduce harmful emissions. It’s important we act now to understand harmful vehicle emissions so that current and future generations can enjoy healthier air.

Connected Reconnect WA

Through our Reconnect WA initiative, we supported local governments across WA in delivering projects to revitalise our streets and public spaces, making them more people-focused and inviting.

4,250+ 12 Town Teams

projects were funded in metropolitan and regional WA.

To access the RAC Air Health Monitor network, visit rac.com.au/airhealth

BELOW: Dunsborough’s Hannay Lane revitalisation encouraged more pedestrian and active transport through Dunsborough town.

Town Teams are community-led groups that work collaboratively to identify opportunities for enhancements and beautification of their neighbourhoods. As the principal sponsor of the Town Team Movement, we’ve supported more than 40 individual Town Teams.

community projects were supported across WA in 2021/22.

Get involved

Together with you, our members, and all Western Australians, we’re working towards a better WA. Here are just some of the ways you can be involved. Take a ride on the RAC Intellibus® Book your free ride at rac.com.au/Intellibus

Participate in a Safe Travels session Visit rac.com.au/safetravels.

Vote on the changes you want to see Look out for the chance to vote on the community projects we’re funding around WA.

Join or start a Town Team in your local area

Find out more at rac.com.au/ttm

Voice your opinion

Sign up for our Member’s Voice online community and share your opinion rac.com.au/opinion

200 sensors will make up the completed network.

members voted on the shortlisted projects.

By Alex Forrest

What’s going on with

Fuel prices have had so many ups and downs in recent months, it’s hardly surprising that many consumers are wondering what on earth is going on.

Many factors affect fuel prices in WA, including global factors such as geopolitical instability, shipping availability and freight rates, which are largely out of the control of local fuel retailers.

But the other major influencing factor is the behaviour of those local retailers, which is most obviously manifested in the Perth metropolitan area as the petrol price cycle.

This is a deliberate and carefully orchestrated pricing strategy designed by Perth retailers to get motorists to buy fuel at higher prices, with higher average retail margins (15-30 cents per litre) than if pricing was set at a more stable 10-12c above the wholesale price.

These pricing decisions are, of course, made by those managing these businesses, and not those behind the counter. These workers should not be on the receiving end of motorists frustrated with fuel prices.

The ups and downs of Perth’s petrol price cycle are frustrating and confusing for many motorists, especially towards the end of 2022,

when some retailers began moving back to a weekly price cycle while others (primarily Ampol) are sticking with the fortnightly price hike, at least for the time being.

Perth’s changing petrol price cycle

Coles Express first disrupted the fortnightly cycle in June 2022.

Coles was then joined by BP, 7-Eleven, Puma, Vibe and some United and Caltex Woolworths outlets, which have been increasing prices on the usual fortnightly price hike day (currently Wednesdays), but then dropping their prices sharply in line with a weekly cycle and then raising them again on the following Wednesday, midway through the fortnightly cycle.

But they only bring their prices up so they’re back in line with the pricing of the other local fuel retailers which are sticking with the fortnightly cycle (now only some Ampol), so they compete with them until the two-week mark and then the cycle begins again.

Therefore, at retailers other than Ampol, every week it will usually be cheaper to fill up on the preceding Monday or Tuesday. If pricing behaviour continues as it did in late

2022, most sites including all Ampol sites will be cheapest every Tuesday.

Immediately after the price rise on Wednesdays, retailers begin dropping their prices from Thursday over several days. At the time of writing, the rate at which prices were dropping varied depending on the brand and site, but the overarching pattern was a fortnightly price hike with a smaller hike in the middle of the week.

Among the primary reasons for the petrol price cycle first changing to fortnightly during September/October 2021 was the increasing number of motorists becoming familiar with the previous weekly price cycle and filling up only on the cheap days.

With most fuel sales occurring on days when retail margins are small, there’s little fat left on the bone from which to draw a profit.

When fuel sellers change the price cycle, consumers need to re-learn when the cheapest days are to buy fuel. When the cycle changed from weekly to fortnightly in October 2021, it also became more difficult for motorists to time their fill-ups with the cheap days because they were occurring only fortnightly, and most drivers need to refill their tanks more often than that. 

When fuel sellers change the price cycle, consumers need to re-learn when the cheapest days are to buy fuel.

So not only did drivers have to relearn when the cheapest days were, they also had to manage their fuel consumption more carefully if they wanted to continue to save money. However, many motorists are finding themselves paying more for fuel than they wanted to or expected. Still, in a fuel market like this, there are some levers at the disposal of drivers keen to push prices down.

Where you buy fuel is important

At the same time that fuel retailers are trying to get customers to pay more for fuel, they are also trying to take customers from each other, and competition between fuel retailers is a good thing for consumers.

There isn’t much that a fuel retailer dislikes more than losing business to a competitor down the road, and motorists should keep targeting those cheaper retailers to encourage continued competition.

If there is strong competition between service stations within a relatively small area (such as in one suburb), pricing at each of them is likely to be quite keen.

In areas where there are few retailers for motorists to choose from, there’s

a stronger chance that prices will be higher.

With several fuel outlets near each other, competition is likely to be stronger and in the best-case scenario, prices will be driven down as retailers vie for the dollars of passing motorists.

The demographics of a particular area can also be a factor. In areas where higher prices are more likely to be tolerated by less price-sensitive motorists, prices will be higher.

For example, the average price for unleaded petrol in Perth’s western suburbs is often higher than the average for the rest of the metropolitan area.

Also affecting fuel prices are the volumes of fuel a retailer is selling.

If retailers are selling lower volumes of fuel than is typical, then they have fewer litres of fuel to draw revenue from. Therefore, they may charge more for each of those litres.

The difference

1 cent makes

Of all the goods sold at a fuel retailer, petrol and diesel are typically the lowest margin items they sell.

But because they sell a lot more litres of fuel than chocolate bars or

take away coffee – a few cents per litre can make a big difference in the amount of revenue coming in.

Western Australians buy a staggeringly large amount of fuel. During the 2021/22 financial year, more than 1.7 billion litres of petrol was sold in WA. The vast majority of that was sold through retailers (1.54 billion litres), with the remainder sold direct to industry.

That means an increase of just 1 cent per litre across all the petrol sold in WA over last financial year would have resulted in over $17.4 million of extra revenue going into the collective coffers of fuel companies.

Most of the diesel used in WA (83 per cent) is used by industry (mostly resources and agriculture), with the remainder sold at the retail level to consumers.

A 1-cent increase in the cost of all diesel fuel consumed in WA over a year amounts to an additional $76.5 million going to fuel sellers’ collective pockets.

Global factors impacting our fuel prices

Geopolitical issues in distant countries, crude oil prices and the value of the Australian dollar are

In areas where higher prices are more likely to be tolerated by less price-sensitive motorists, prices will be higher.

among the most reported factors impacting our fuel prices, and these do indeed play important roles in determining the broad trends of fuel pricing in Australia.

But among the far more direct influences on average fuel pricing trends in Australia are the international benchmark prices for refined petrol and diesel.

The benchmarks are the prices petrol and diesel are selling for in the Asia-Pacific region, and they’re the prices that fuel pricing in Australia is benchmarked against.

With most of the fuel consumed in Australia being refined overseas, fuel destined for Australia is traded based on these benchmark prices. The benchmark for petrol is known as

Singapore Mogas 95, and for diesel it’s Singapore Gasoil.

Ensuring fuel security in Australia

The reason Australian-sold fuel is aligned with Singapore benchmarks is to keep fuel available here.

If Australia’s fuel was being sold at below Singapore prices, our fuel suppliers would have no commercial reason to import it because they would have to sell it at a loss, which would create an even more unstable fuel security situation than we currently have.

Further, for the two fuel refineries remaining in operation in Australia (Ampol’s facility in Brisbane and Viva Energy’s refinery in Geelong), if fuel was selling for more overseas than

in Australia, there would be more incentive for them to export it than sell it domestically.

As these benchmarks change, prices at the pumps in Australian capital cities typically change approximately two weeks later. In regional areas, those changes will take longer to flow through given the less frequent turnover of each batch of fuel at most regional retailers.

With crude oil as the primary feedstock in the production of petrol and diesel, its price will affect the benchmarks. The impact of crude oil prices on pump prices is very real, but it is less direct because it’s further up in the supply chain, where any changes in refining costs and other influences are yet to be applied.

The cheapest cars to own and run in WA

Increasing fuel prices, interest rates and higher vehicle purchase costs have combined to substantially push up the cost of motoring for Western Australians.

RAC’s annual Vehicle Operating Costs Survey, which examined the cost of owning and running more than 80 popular cars in Western Australia, found that higher fuel prices over the past year had made a notable contribution to the overall increase in vehicle running costs. This was despite the temporary relief provided by the halving of the fuel excise between March and September 2022.

Vehicle ownership costs were also impacted by the continuing increase in new car retail prices and interest rate increases, which in turn raised car loan repayments.

Among the small cars surveyed, the cheapest to own and run was the Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport at $895.46 per month.

The cheapest electric vehicle (EV) to buy was the MG ZS EV. After applying WA’s

electric vehicle rebate, it cost $41,490. It was also the cheapest of the EVs to run at $1122 per month.

It should be noted that not all EVs in the survey were eligible for the WA Government’s Zero Emission Vehicle rebate, with two exceeding the $70,000 eligibility ceiling.

While the MG ZS EV was the cheapest EV to own and run overall, the Tesla Model 3 was the cheapest EV to ‘fuel’, at only $50.35 per month to charge. This compares to the MG’s monthly charging costs of $64.25. The MG was cheapest overall due primarily to its low purchase price.

At the other end of the scale, the most expensive vehicle to own and run in the survey was the Nissan Patrol Ti V8. It cost $2533 per month overall, with average

fuel expenses at $336 per month, up from $274 per month for fuel in 2021. Also in 2021, the popular Mazda CX-5 Maxx mid-sized SUV cost $988 per month to run. This year’s survey found that cost had increased by 30 per cent to $1379.

The two plug-in hybrids in the Electric category – the MG HS 1.5 Turbo Excite and the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross –both placed in the top five for overall affordability, indicating these two PHEVs strike a balance of affordability and low tailpipe emissions appeal.

Toyota was the most successful brand in the survey, winning three categories (small cars, medium cars and medium SUVs).

For a full list of vehicles, visit rac.com.au/runningcosts

Cheapest light car

MG3 Core

On-road price (est.) $17,490.00

ANCAP safety rating Not rated

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $143.99

Loan repayments $361.74

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $156.61 Servicing $36.05 Tyres $9.27

TOTAL COST per month $707.66

TOTAL COST per week $163.31

ANNUAL COST $8491.91

Cheapest small car

Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport

On-road price (est.) $28,846.59

ANCAP safety rating 

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $154.41

Loan repayments $582.56

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $130.05 Servicing $19.16 Tyres $9.27

TOTAL COST per month $895.46

TOTAL COST per week $206.64

ANNUAL COST $10,745.48

Cheapest medium car

Toyota Camry Ascent

On-road price (est.) $34,876.72

ANCAP safety rating 

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $181.97

Loan repayments $704.34

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $158.95 Servicing $22.50 Tyres $11.93

TOTAL COST per month $1079.69

TOTAL COST per week $249.16

ANNUAL COST $12,956.28

Cheapest

Cheapest small SUV

Hyundai Venue (base)

Cheapest medium SUV

Toyota RAV4 GXL

On-road price (est.) $41,490.00

ANCAP safety rating Not rated

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $190.70

Loan repayments $837.90

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $64.25 Servicing $17.65 Tyres $11.93

TOTAL COST per month $1122.43

TOTAL COST per week $259.02

ANNUAL COST $13,469.20

On-road price (est.) $26,697.76

ANCAP safety rating 

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $143.87

Loan repayments $551.22

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $156.06 Servicing $30.17 Tyres $9.27

TOTAL COST per month $890.59

TOTAL COST per week $205.52

ANNUAL COST $10,687.02

On-road price (est.) $42,512.37 ANCAP safety rating 

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $156.29

Loan repayments $858.54

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $140.89 Servicing $22.08 Tyres $15.27

TOTAL COST per month $1193.07

TOTAL COST per week $275.32

ANNUAL COST $14,316.79

Cheapest all

On-road

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $178.90 Loan repayments $1104.78

Cheapest people mover

Hyundai Staria 3.5 V6

On-road price (est.) $54,590.83

STANDING COSTS per month

Registration, insurance & CTP $189.21 Loan repayments $1084.05

RUNNING COSTS per month

Fuel $227.59 Servicing $28.17 Tyres $14.60 TOTAL COST per month $1543.61 TOTAL COST per week $356.22 ANNUAL COST $18,523.36

In 1942, the ground-breaking Lancaster Bomber entered into RAF service, making military history as it confirmed its battle-ready status. Symbolising the combined hopes of the Allied nations, this spectacular aircraft delivered a record 608,612 tons of bombs during its remarkable 156,000 sorties, proving itself to be one of the most successful night bombers of WWII! Now you can celebrate the landmark 70th anniversary of a true icon of the skies with the perfect tribute – the Lancaster Bomber Masterpiece Clock is a collectable unique to The Bradford Exchange.

Mastercrafted by hand for authentic detail...

• Market-first sculpture honouring the fearless Lancaster pilot Guy Gibson’s iconic aircraft, flown during his command of the famed 617 Squadron.

• Authentically mastercrafted with a gleaming bronze-tone finish – reminiscent of stunning museum-quality treasures.

• Mounted on a richly grained and polished wooden base with a precision Quartz movement clock and indoor thermometer – both inspired by authentic instruments from the Lancaster’s cockpit!

• Clock face inscribed with the stirring 617 Squadron motto of ‘Après Moi, Le Déluge’ (After Me, The Flood) – a striking reminder of the bomber’s contribution to the acclaimed ‘Dam Busters’ raids.

• Featuring the symbolic laurel wreath of victory, in addition to a brilliant brass-like plaque proudly commemorating the Lancaster’s service with the RAF!

Astounding quality and unique design – order yours today!

This anniversary edition is a one-of-a-kind celebration of an iconic aircraft and a legendary pilot. Arriving with a Certificate of Authenticity, this fine masterpiece is yours for just five interest-free instalments of only $35.99 – that’s $179.95, plus $19.99 postage and handling, backed by our famous 365-day guarantee. You need pay nothing now. To reserve your edition, simply complete and return the coupon or go online today at www.bradford.com.au/aircraft

WA travel brief

Explore Collie on horseback

The Collie region is renowned for its many tracks and trails giving hikers and mountain bikers access to the best of the region’s stunning landscapes.

For a different way to explore the countryside you can also hit one of the region’s horse trails.

Outback Horse Trails offers scenic, guided trail rides around Collie. Choose from a one-hour ride through natural bushland or a two-hour picnic ride where you’ll make your way through beautiful scenery and then enjoy picnic food and drinks at Harris River Estate.

All rides are on well-trained, gentle horses with an emphasis on safety so you can relax and enjoy the experience. Owner Linda Yates also offers horse riding lessons.

To find out more, visit outbackhorsetrails.com

GET ONE NIGHT FREE AT OUR HOLIDAY PARKS AND RESORTS

There are still plenty of summer days left to enjoy and now is a great time to save on a summer escape.

Exclusive to RAC members, you can stay for four nights but only pay for three at a number of RAC’s holiday Parks & Resorts across WA.

Choose a beachside break in Broome, Cervantes, Exmouth or Monkey Mia or head for the forest at Karri Valley in Pemberton. Plus, you’ll enjoy additional member discounts if you extend your stay.

The offer ends 23 March and is valid for travel between 1 February and 26 March 2023. To book, visit racparksandresorts.com.au/special-offers

Terms and conditions apply. See website for full details.

Duncan Wright FORM

Australian-first brings ‘Giants’ sculptures to Mandurah

In an Australian-first cultural tourism project, renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo has brought his largescale wooden sculptures to the Mandurah region.

The Giants of Mandurah is an interactive exhibition that requires visitors to find the Giants, following a trail of clues.

Measuring up to 5m in height, these enormous wooden artworks will be very cleverly hidden around Mandurah in this free-to-view outdoor exhibition. One Giant will also be located in Subiaco.

Starting at the Mandurah Visitor Centre, you’ll receive clues to find each site that will then lead to the next Giant. Once all clues have been collected, they can be entered into a ‘code machine’ in central Mandurah, where the location of the final secret Giant will be revealed.

Giants of Mandurah is initiated and produced by FORM – Building a State of Creativity Inc. and delivered in collaboration with the City of Mandurah, with support from the State Government, and will be in place for several years.

To prepare for your Giants adventure, visit giantsofmandurah.com.au

TOURING THE BROOME ART SCENE

A new guided tour in Broome is giving visitors an interesting insight into the vibrant local art scene.

On the ART-rageous art trail tour you’ll meet renowned local artists, visit galleries which showcase spectacular Indigenous art from across the country and visit artists in their studios. Artworks include paintings, prints and textiles plus crafts and art gifts.

A lunch of sushi platters is included along with sparkling wine, and you’ll finish the day with cheese platters and a tasting of hand-crafted spirits at Broome’s Moontide Distillery.

The four-hour art tour is run by Broome and Around, and includes all transfers, food and drinks plus your tour guide.

For more details visit broomeandaround.com.au

SWIM WITH THE BIG THREE AT NINGALOO

Ningaloo Reef is the only place in Australia and one of few places in the world where you can swim with whale sharks, humpback whales and manta rays all from a single location. Swimming alongside these ocean giants is an unforgettable experience and now is the time to lock in your adventure with one of the Big Three.

Whale shark swim season runs from late February to the end of June from Coral Bay and the end of July from Exmouth. For humpbacks, the season is July to October in Coral Bay and from August to October in Exmouth, while manta ray swims are available year-round from Coral Bay.

In addition to your marine encounter, you’ll also get to spend time snorkelling on the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, with the chance to spot turtles, dolphins and some of the 500 species of colourful fish that live on the reef.

For a list of swim operators in the region, visit australiascoralcoast.com

SO MANY BIG REASONS TO

With Mandurah being home to Thomas Dambo’s wooden Giants, an estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour, and one of Australia’s healthiest dolphin populations, there are so many big reasons to visit WA’s Top Tourism Town 2022. There’s so much waiting for you to discover, enjoy and explore.

Check

Driving the Coral Coast Highway

LINED WITH GLITTERING OCEAN, THE 1250KM CORAL COAST HIGHWAY FROM PERTH TO EXMOUTH OFFERS TREASURES BOTH ABOVE AND BELOW THE WATERLINE.

By Fleur Bainger

Best toured between March and November when the weather is at its comfortably sunny best, the Coral Coast Highway links two World Heritage Areas – Shark Bay and Ningaloo – with reams of wildflowers that bloom from winter to spring. It’s also where you can swim with the Big Three – whale sharks, manta rays and humpback whales – gaze at rock formations in the setting sun, witness a bubblegum pink lake, walk on 70km of tiny shells and expand your local knowledge on engaging tours (which are best booked well in advance). Here’s how to drive it in 12 enriching days.

Day 1: Perth to Cervantes

198km, just over 2hr drive Timing is everything, and that’s particularly true for this leg of the journey. It may seem like a short skip from Perth, and some could be tempted to put more kilometres under the belt. Do that, and you’ll miss one of the Coral Coast’s glinting highlights: sunset at The Pinnacles.

Depart Perth and make your way to Indian Ocean Drive. Lancelin is a bit over halfway to Cervantes and makes a good stop for an early lunch. You can also head out to Lancelin’s giant sand dunes and, if time allows, hire a sand board for some downhill thrills. The base of the dunes are accessible with a two-wheel drive. From here, Cervantes is just another 50min away, where you can settle in to RAC Cervantes Holiday Park. By 4pm, you should start thinking about cruising to Nambung National Park: you don’t want to miss the moment the setting sun coats the eerie desert formations at the Pinnacles in a glowing light. 

ABOVE: On tour with Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Adventures in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.

Day 2 & 3: Cervantes to Kalbarri 378km, about 4hr15min drive

Early risers can head to the jetty for a guided swim with the playful sea lions that lounge on Essex Rocks, opposite Jurien Bay, a 20min drive north. Turquoise Safaris runs daily snorkel trips that last 2.5hrs. From here, those with a four-wheel drive should head to Stockyard Gully Reserve for an exploration of limestone caves, including the 250m-long Stockyard Tunnel (BYO torch).

Past Greenough, pause in Geraldton to refuel, visit the supermarket (supplies are fewer and more expensive from here on) and grab a bite to eat. The excellent Jaffle Shack container café toasts interesting flavour combinations – think chicken, pine nuts and aioli – and blends a memorable chocolate shake, while AJ’s Beach Café is another micro outlet close to the beach and a fenced playground.

Make tracks for the pink waters at Hutt Lagoon; park at the viewing site on the road towards Port Gregory and bend down and touch the naturally pink lake. Roll into Kalbarri by sunset.

Day 4 & 5: Kalbarri to Monkey Mia

398km, just over 4hr drive

Hike the easy 3km Mushroom Rock loop trail and inhale the salty breeze before heading out to Kalbarri National Park. Walk out along the twin platforms of the Kalbarri Skywalk. The first measures 17m, the second stretches 25m over the Murchison River gorge and each has universal accessibility. There’s a little café there, too. Make your evening easy with a meal from one of the food trucks along Kalbarri’s peaceful inlet; find them in the car park near the fishing harbour.

From here on, this hard slog drive has few points of interest to break up the bitumen, so if you have kids in the back, you’d be wise to have a bag of activities, downloaded podcasts and snacks on tap.

Billabong Roadhouse tends to have the most affordable fuel on this stretch, along with locally crafted souvenirs and takeaway food. Once you reach Monkey Mia, check into RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, slip on your bathers and plunge into the bay’s still waters. There’s every chance dolphins will be chasing fish in deeper waters, so keep an eye out.

FROM THE TOP: Shothole Canyon in Cape Range National Park; Hutt Lagoon’s pink lake, near Port Gregory; Swimming with whale sharks.

Australias Coral Coast

Day 5 & 6: Monkey Mia to Coral Bay

581km, 6hr

drive

Monkey Mia’s friendly dolphins bob in the shallows nearly every day of the year, so it’s a no-brainer way to start your day. Then join Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Adventures for a rewarding day of kayaking, coastal exploring and Indigenous culture.

At Francois Peron National Park, four-wheel drivers can enjoy the striking contrast of red sands against the turquoise waters on one of the many tracks.

On your way out of Monkey Mia back towards the North West Coastal Highway, snap pics at Eagle Bluff lookout and walk on millions of tiny shells at Shell Beach - the shells are up to 10m deep in parts. Then strap in for this road trip’s major haul to Coral Bay. Grab lunch en route at Carnarvon, and load up with fruit, preserves and ice cream from Bumbak’s produce farm.

Day 7 & 8: Coral Bay to Exmouth

152km, 1hr35min

drive

Once you reach Coral Bay, unwind with a sunset cruise and recharge for the next day. Coral Bay is your gateway to the southern part of Ningaloo Marine Park and Ningaloo Reef – the world’s largest fringing reef – so snorkelling in the translucent waters is a must. Look out for turtles along the reef.

One of the highlights here is the manta ray swims, with the tours running year-round, while whale shark swim season runs from March to June. You can also explore Coral Bay’s marine wonders on a kayak tour or take in

the underwater views with a cruise on the glass bottom boat. After a day of aquatic adventures, it’s then just a short drive to Exmouth.

Day 8 & 9: Exmouth to Carnarvon 365km, nearly 4hr drive

Exmouth is where you get another chance to swim with one of the Coral Coast’s ocean giants. Book in for a whale shark swim or go one bigger and swim with a humpback whale.

Turquoise Bay is the go-to snorkel spot. Here you can ‘drift snorkel’ along Ningaloo Reef. The drift current makes it very easy indeed.

Back on dry land, morning is the best time to tackle the Cape Range National Park’s walking trails, but if you’d rather take things easy, you can drive (four-wheel drive recommended) to lookout points at Shothole Canyon and Charles Knife Canyon.

On departure day, the drive between Exmouth and Carnarvon is pretty straightforward. Pop into Minilya Bridge Roadhouse for a breather. Just before you reach Carnarvon, stop to observe the power of the Blow Holes as mist is shot up through holes in the coastal platforms.

Day 10 & 11: Carnarvon to Geraldton 476km, nearly 5hr drive

Take a tranquil morning wander on Carnarvon’s Fascine (the palm-lined waterway), explore the quirky cactus garden and follow the Fruit Loop drive between fresh produce properties. Spend time at the Gwoonwardu

BELOW: RAC’s Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.

Tourism Western Australia

Tourism Western Australia

Tourism Western Australia

Mia, Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre to see a 33,000-year-old shell necklace and gain an insight into the Gascoyne region’s culture and country. Then learn more about Carnarvon’s little known role in space history at the Space and Technology Museum.

On the way to Geraldton, break things up with a visit to the Hamelin Pool tea rooms and if the historic Telegraph Station is open, have a sticky beak – it’s filled with forgotten treasures. Further south, stop at Northampton to appreciate the town’s high number of heritage buildings. Then celebrate your arrival in Geraldton with a cold drink on the roof top at Old Man and the Sea.

Day 12: Geraldton to Perth 414km, 4hr30min drive

After filling up with breakfast at Café Fleur, pay your respects to the 645 Australian sailors who died on the HMAS Sydney II at the sunken warship’s lofty memorial – the giant dome sculpture contains a seagull for every sailor lost at sea. Motor onwards to Cervantes where you can enjoy a rock lobster feast at the Lobster Shack. Consider chasing it with a tour of the processing factory. From here, you’ll return to Perth - drive safe. 

MEMBERS SAVE ON CORAL COAST STAYS

Book a stay at one of RAC’s parks and resorts along the Coral Coast at Cervantes, Monkey Mia and Exmouth. RAC members enjoy exclusive discounts on accommodation. Visit racparksandresorts.com.au

BACK-OF-BOAT CRAYFISH SALES

ON THE CORAL COAST

When you’re driving through crayfish country, it would be criminal not to savour the local delicacy. Right along the Coral Coast, WA’s rock lobster fishers are selling the crustaceans from the back of their boats. Not only is it fun to meet them at the harbour and be handed seafood that’s literally just been pulled from the water, it also strengthens the connection between seafarers and visitors. You’ll get to know the locals whose families have been catching crays here for generations.

Fisherfolk were permitted to restart back-of-boat sales in 2020, when the state government opted to allow the practice in response to COVID decimating the industry’s export sales. Back-of-boat had been a common sales method until 2010, when the rock lobster industry adopted a quota-regulated fishing system.

Since 2020, some 92 different vessels have sold around 100 tonnes of back-of-boat crays at 20 landing areas, between Dawesville and Kalbarri. Throughout the year, fishers can sell up to 200 lobsters per landing, a number that’s boosted to 400 per landing in the December lead-up to Christmas. The initiative has been such a hit, industry body, the Western Rock Lobster Council, has developed a dedicated website connecting customers with fishers. While previously payments were mainly cash, there is now an online ordering and payment system at backofboat.com

Through it, you can search for a fisher at your closest port, pick a day and time that suits best and order the size and number of lobsters you’re after.

When you pick up your seafood from the harbour, bring an ice-filled esky and expect the rock lobsters to be alive and kicking. The new website offers advice on transporting, storing, preparing and cooking the critters. The price is market dependent, so that’s something to check at the time of ordering.

Australias

Coral Coast

Tourism Western Australia

TOP: Rooftop drinks at Geraldton’s at Old Man and the Sea; HMAS Sydney II Memorial, Geraldton.

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The state of cruising in 2023

WITH CRUISING BACK IN WA, YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING WHETHER IT’S THE BEST WAY TO SPEND YOUR HOLIDAY RIGHT NOW.

By Helen Foster

Those sail-away cocktails are being poured once again, the shows are still world class, and the food is still going to make you wish you’d packed your eating pants. But of course, there have also been a few changes to cruising. So, let us guide you through what to expect.

Let’s start with the good news – all the big lines are back: Royal Caribbean, Princess, P&O, Silversea, Cunard, Holland America Line and Azamara are among the lines departing Fremantle offering short hop, 4-5 day itineraries sailing past some of the best sights Australia

has to offer, alongside 10-14 night itineraries covering Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand or Hong Kong - you can even take a 40-night one way cruise to New York on the Queen Mary 2. And expect to see more South Pacific itineraries such as Vanuatu, the last of the islands to open their maritime border. Add to that big hitters like Disney Cruises and Virgin Voyages coming to Australian waters in 2023 and 2024, there’s never been more choice as to where to cruise and who with. 

CLOCKWISE

FROM THE TOP

LEFT: Hitting the waves on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas; The Queen’s Room on board Queen Mary 2; There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy; Movie night on Princess Cruises.

New cruising regulations

There’s no sugar coating the fact that while airlines and hotels have relaxed rules around tests and vaccines, the Australian cruise industry is still playing things super safe, as Joel Katz, managing director from the Cruise Lines International Association explains. “To win the confidence of travellers, we had to show we had measures in place that would not only mitigate against the risks of COVID-19, but also provide detailed response plans to deal with any cases that might emerge.”

Right now, cruising in and from Australia is governed by a six-page set of regulations called the Eastern Seaboard and Western Australian Cruise Protocols and right now this says that if you want to board a cruise ship in WA, anyone 12 and over, must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before travel – that means having at least two doses of any TGA-approved vaccine like Pfizer or Astra Zeneca. Boosters are also advised.

Up to five per cent of people on a ship can have a medical exemption for vaccination but if this applies to you, speak to your cruise line about how they handle this; Carnival, for example, ask you to make your

booking as normal but it’s not final until you receive an email confirmation that the ship can accept you. If the ship is over quota, you, and your travelling companions, will get a refund.

It might sound like quite a few hoops to jump through, but as cruise analyst Neil Stollznow from StollzNow Research told us, the benefits of cruising outweigh all of this for many devoted cruisers. “Not only because of practical stuff like unpacking once, cruising has always been great value for money – and that’s continuing while land-based costs are going up,” he explains.

“According to the National Visitors Survey for July 2022, prices across Australia increased by an average of 141 per cent. That makes cruising, where you don’t have to worry about ancillary costs like food or transport, even more appealing now.”

What’s changed?

If you do decide to get on board, what are you going to find? Well, it’s mostly business as usual. The restaurants are open, the buffets are back and there’s still singing in the shows and gaming in the casino.

Reassuringly, while cruising may be new to us again in WA, it’s been going on around other parts of Australia, and the rest of the world, for a while now.

Generally port excursions are also going ahead as normal – but, some countries, for example New Caledonia, require proof of full travel insurance before you can disembark the ship.

“Many processes have also been streamlined or digitised to make them simpler and reduce person-toperson contact,” explains Joel Katz. “For example, the safety drill performed at the beginning of each cruise is now explained by video in your cabin, so guests no longer need to gather in person. And apps and wearable devices allow guests to reduce person-toperson contact.”

Embarkation, however, is one place where you will likely notice a difference. For starters, lines including Royal Caribbean and Princess have instituted booked boarding times to limit how many people are in the terminal together; you’ll pick your time a few weeks before your cruise.

For everyone over the age of two, you will need to show proof (such as a photo) of a negative self-administered RAT test within 24 hours of embarkation or a PCR test taken within 48 hours. You’ll also fill in a questionnaire

and, if you have any symptoms on the day of boarding may need more testing.

Some of these tasks can be entered via your cruise line app to speed things up at the terminal. Masks are also likely to be needed. Every cruise line is handling things a little bit differently though, so the number one rule is, even if you’ve been on a few cruises before (in fact, especially if you’ve been on a few cruises before) read all your documentation carefully for the up-to-date advice.

The state of play outside WA

Reassuringly, while cruising may be new to us again in WA, it’s been going on around other parts of Australia, and the rest of the world, for a while now with millions of passengers in more than 100 countries setting sail –and this is giving the cruise lines data that they can work with to make cruising here as safe as possible. “The experience around the world where ships have been operating for some time has been that serious illness due to COVID-19 is rare,” says Joel Katz. “In fact, rates of hospitalisations due to COVID-19 are between 30 and 80 times lower on cruise ships than they are on land.’ 

ABOVE: A shore excursion on the Kimberley coast with Silverseas Cruises.

At the time of writing, eight out of the nine ships arriving in Sydney over one week are classed as Tier One ships – which means they are either completely COVID-free, or at worst, there are fewer than 30 cases per thousand people on board, and everything on board the ship is running smoothly. Obviously, cleaning and sanitation on board is higher than ever before but ships have also invested in new filtration systems that may pipe air in directly from outside and/or use UV light to kill viruses. COVID testing is available on board and they have upgraded medical services to try and minimise the risk of infection or serious disease if people do test positive on board.

And it’s possible someone will. Because people get off at port, a ship is not a sealed ecosystem so even with pre-board checks it’s impossible to completely rule this out – as we’ve already seen. The best ways to reduce your risk are to wear a mask in indoor public areas, enjoy the deck-based bars and activities as often as you can and make the most of the nocontact facilities on the apps or other devices.

Making it as safe as possible

If you do test positive to COVID on board, there are strict processes in place. You will have to stay in your room (for five days) but some lines let you stay in your cabin (a very good reason to book a balcony or window cabin if you can afford it), others have a designated deck on board for any affected passengers. Meals, drinks, Wi-Fi and movies are all provided. You’ll likely be compensated for any days lost and refunded for any excursions you couldn’t take – but it’s still a very good idea to take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers cruising. If more than 10 per cent of those on board test positive, the ship may introduce extra safety measures around testing and masking.

So, that’s where we are today – where we are tomorrow remains to be seen. Norwegian Cruise Line recently announced they no longer require guests to be vaccinated on their overseas sailings so things might change here too. “I refer to cruising as the Teflon of the travel industry,” says Neil Stollznow. “It faces challenges, but it comes back. The fact is there’s something about being on the water that people just love. Nothing will change that.” 

Please note: All advice is correct at the time of writing but rules do change so check with your cruise line before booking and embarkation for current advice.

FROM THE TOP: Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas; A Club Oceanview Verandah Room on Azamara Cruises; Silversea’s Silver Explorer surrounded by icebergs in Antarctica.

MAKE YOUR RETURN TO CRUISING

For all the cruising options from Fremantle and beyond, contact one of RAC’s cruise experts on 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/travel

“Cruising has always been great value for money and that’s continuing while land-based costs are going up.”

HIGHLIGHTS & INCLUSIONS

• 2 nights’ aboard The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin, including all meals, beverages and Off Train Experiences in Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine

• 3 nights’ accommodation in Darwin including breakfast

• 2 nights’ small-group touring in Kakadu, East Alligator River and Litchfield with Outback Spirit, including accommodation and meals

•

THE GHAN, ADELAIDE TO DARWIN OUTBACK TO OCEAN

FOR TRAVEL: SUNDAY, 21 APRIL 2024

Pair the legendary journey through the centre of Australia on The Ghan with a voyage through the Kimberley aboard PONANT’s Le Laperouse and you have a journey of epic proportions.

HIGHLIGHTS & INCLUSIONS

• 2 nights’ aboard The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin, including all meals, beverages and Off Train Experiences in Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine

• Transfer from Darwin Rail Terminal to Darwin hotel

• 1 night’s accommodation in Darwin including breakfast

• Transfer from hotel to Le Laperouse

• 10-night Australia’s Iconic Kimberley expedition cruise aboard PONANT’s Le Laperouse in a Prestige Stateroom, including prepaid gratuities

• Transfer from Le Laperouse to Broome hotel

• 1 night’s accommodation in Broome including breakfast

*Top End Explorer: Advertised prices are per person, based on the Advance Purchase fare in a Gold Service Twin Cabin on The Ghan in March 2024. Package valid for travel between 10 March to 20 October 2024. Outback to Ocean: Advertised prices are per person, based on the Rail and Sail fare in a Gold Service Twin Cabin on The Ghan and a premier stateroom on the Le Laperouse in April 2024. Package valid for travel 21 April 2024. Offer is subject to availability. Blackout dates apply. Booking and credit card fees may apply. Fare is non-transferable and non-refundable. Flights not included in price. For full terms & conditions visit www.journeybeyondrail.com.au/terms-conditions. Prices correct as at 5 December 2022.

Future moves

VOLVO ADDS A ZERO

Volvo is widely known for its stance on vehicle safety and more recently for its future vision of zero injuries and deaths in its new cars. Now, Volvo has placed another zero in its sights – zero tailpipe emissions. The Sweden-based, but Chinese-owned car maker has committed to selling only electric cars in Australia from 2026, which is four years earlier than Volvo’s global all-electric target of 2030. With the majority of its line-up already electrified in some form (being hybrid or pure electric), this will be much less of a leap than other manufacturers currently selling large numbers of internal combustion vehicles, but it’s commendable, nonetheless. Volvo ceased participating in the development and manufacture of new internal combustion engines in November 2022.

AIR TAXIS ON RISE

A Germany-based company calling itself a pioneer of urban air mobility has said it’s on-track to launch an oversized drone-like commercial air taxi service in the next two years. Volocoptor, which has been developing the aircraft for 10 years, said it expects to first launch them in megacities like Singapore, Rome, Paris, and the Neom region in Saudi Arabia.

Volocoptor’s electric passenger aircraft will be called the VoloCity Air Taxi, and it’s been designed as an alternative to other, more conventional forms of sustainable transport.

Volocoptor isn’t the only one developing electric drone-like passenger aircraft. According to one source, several hundred concepts have been put forward by companies since 2016.

RECYCLED RECYCLING TRUCK

Soon, the garbage truck which picks up your recycling could be a product of recycling itself. Due to the stop-start nature of the trucks’ work, they lend themselves well to the regenerative braking used in electric vehicles, so British firm Lunaz Design is replacing diesel engines in older garbage trucks with electric motors (along with further upgrades including the latest safety, connectivity and ergonomic improvements). Garbage trucks are expensive, hardworking pieces of equipment, so it makes sense to get the most out of them, especially given the energy required to produce one from scratch. Though if you can’t hear an electric garbage truck coming, there’ll be little warning for those who’ve forgotten to take their bins out.

Test drive SMALL HYBRID SUVS GO BACK-TO-BACK

We compare the Kia Niro Hybrid Electric with the MG HS Plus EV

By Alex Forrest

What better place to introduce low emissions vehicle technology than one of the country’s most popular categories: small SUVs.

With the pricing of electric-only vehicles still out of reach for many, the next best options are hybrids.

TOP: The Kia Niro HEV is a more refined, better handling vehicle; LEFT: All variants of the Niro have 5-star safety ratings; ABOVE: The Kia’s infotainment system is more user-friendly than the MG’s.

The choice of hybrid vehicles among small SUVs continues to increase, which stands to make electrified motoring more accessible than the current crop of available pure EVs could otherwise manage by themselves.

The additional asset these vehicles have which is far less often mentioned is that the hybrid version is typically sprightlier to drive than the petrol-only version.

As well as reduced emissions, the perkier performance of these vehicles may well help get buyers over the line and onto the middle ground that sits between petrol-only and pure electric.

Here, we take a look at two hybrid flavours – the MG HS Plus EV plug-in hybrid and the Kia Niro HEV, which is a non-plug-in hybrid.

Value for money

With drive away pricing for the Kia Niro HEV and MG HS Plus EV so similar at $49,828 and $49,690 respectively, you might expect that the features you get with them are also quite similar.

But there are important differences, some of which you can find by checking online, and some which aren’t obvious until you spend some time with each of them. Most notably, the MG HS Plus EV is a plug-in hybrid, meaning it has a 16.6kWh battery that you can charge from a plug in the wall and then drive short distances in electric-only mode.

The Kia Niro HEV has a much smaller battery (1.32 kWh) and it is not able to be charged from an external source, but you don’t have to plug it in to get the best out of it either.

On the road

There is also a significant difference in the power outputs of the MG and the Kia, but for most buyers of small SUVs, that won’t be a critical factor.

The MG, with its turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine assisted by an electric motor, has a combined 189kW available to send to the front wheels. The Kia’s 1.6-litre non-turbo engine and electric motor combine to make 104kW.

The MG has a plush and compliant ride, but as such its handling is therefore less sporty compared to the Kia’s tauter suspension set up.

With its much bigger battery, the MG takes advantage of its electric drive capability from standstill and delivers strong acceleration. However, if you do not recharge it every day, it’ll become a regular hybrid dragging around an extra-heavy battery, increasing fuel consumption.

Safety and practicality

While petrol-only MG HS models do carry a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, the plug-in hybrid version shown here (the Plus EV) is not included in the rating and therefore does not carry a rating. All variants of the Kia Niro have 5-star safety ratings. The Niro’s advanced infotainment system is far more user-friendly than the MG’s, which lags in response to button pushes and lacks the more practical rotary controls for commonly used features like the audio volume control and ventilation fan speed.

Charging the MG’s battery using the vehicle’s dedicated cable and a normal power outlet is easy and takes about eight hours from empty.

Verdict

The MG HS Plus EV is an affordable way to own a small plug-in hybrid SUV that you can drive mostly on electricity, providing you commit to charging it virtually every day that you use it. It’ll go about 60km on the battery alone. But the Kia Niro HEV is the more refined, better handling vehicle, with a vastly superior infotainment system, still reasonable fuel economy and a current ANCAP safety rating. 

ABOVE: The MG HS Plus EV is a plug-in hybrid, with a 16.6kWh battery that you can charge from a plug in the wall.

MG HS Plus EV

ENGINE 1.5-litre turbo petrol

ELECTRIC MOTOR permanent magnet synchronous BATTERY 16.6kWh

POWER (combined) 189kW

TORQUE (combined) 370Nm

CLAIMED FUEL ECONOMY 1.7L/100km PRICE from $49,690 drive away ANCAP SAFETY RATING Not rated

ENGINE 1.6-litre petrol

ELECTRIC MOTOR permanent magnet synchronous BATTERY 1.32kWh

POWER (combined) 104kW

TORQUE (combined) 265Nm

CLAIMED FUEL ECONOMY 4.0L/100km PRICE from $49,828 drive away

ANCAP SAFETY RATING 

Kia Niro HEV

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT

If it looks like a four-wheel drive, goes like one and sounds like one too, is it a four-wheel drive?

Not necessarily, in the case of the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport 4x2. It still has the ride height, looks and most of the towing ability of the 4x4, but it also drives a little better and is about $5000 cheaper than the equivalent 4x4 version.

Alternatively, if you want to get a better equipped vehicle for the same price, opting for a 4x2 variant will get you a model with more gear for the same price as the lower-spec 4x4 model.

Without the transfer case and front drivetrain, the Pajero Sport 4x2 is 100kg lighter than its four-wheel drive sibling, and that difference is noticeable, making it a little more responsive to the steering. Still, it’s no sports car.

The Pajero Sport 4x2’s 3000kg towing capacity is 100kg less than the 4x4 version. Really though, towing three tonnes with a vehicle weighing less than two tonnes isn’t a great idea anyway.

Compared to its direct competitors such as the Toyota Fortuner ($56,190), Ford Everest ($60,340) and the Isuzu MU-X ($68,310) the Pajero Sport is significantly cheaper ($47,240), where entry level 4x2 variants are compared.

It’s likely there will be a waiting period for all of the above vehicles, so if time is tight and you need a vehicle as soon as possible, the wait time on delivery may become a factor in your decision.

If you do want the top-of-the-range Pajero Sport Exceed, you’ll have to go for the 4x4 model as it’s not available as a 4x2.

The folding arrangement for the third row of seats is somewhat compromised by the high rear floor needed to accommodate the long-travel suspension, but they’ll still prove a useful repository for those of a compact stature.

HYUNDAI STARIA

People movers have had a tough time in the last 20 years with the emergence of seven-seat SUVs and the pretence of adventure they project with their plastic cladding and raised driving positions.

But hang on a minute. In the first 10 months of 2022, the people mover category increased its sales in WA when many other car classes went down, such as small cars, small SUVs, large SUVs and sports cars.

While people mover sales volumes are still low, it appears that modern, reasonably affordable people movers like the eight-seater Hyundai Staria are enjoying a minor renaissance.

No other type of light vehicle can carry so many people and so much of their stuff in so much comfort as a modern people mover, and the Staria is a case in point.

Pricing starts at $54,590, which is less than many large SUVs that are used for the same job. That positions it just above the Kia Carnival people mover, which costs $51,690 for the entry level model.

Hard plastics are spread throughout the Staria’s interior, which may feel cheap but might also be practical from a cleaning viewpoint.

A key difference from the Carnival is that given the Staria is based on the Santa Fe’s platform, it’s available with all-wheel drive if you choose the diesel version. Another difference is that the Staria’s rear seats don’t fold completely flat as they do in the Carnival, though there’s plenty of space behind them.

Visibility out of the Staria is excellent thanks to its huge windows, while the allaround cameras send images to the 10.25-inch (8-inches on the base model) infotainment screen for extra coverage.

The interior also has five USB-A charging points and of course, 16 cup holders. Combine that with the Staria’s astronaut helmet styling, and it could well be the people mover that gets the votes from the younger family members. 

Car doctor

RAC members can take advantage of our Motoring Advice Line. If you have a motoring question, call 6150 6199 Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm to speak to one of our experts.

Q Service providers often claim that when a cabin (or pollen) filter in a car requires replacement, it is necessary to sanitise the air flow ducts with ozone or a similar product to kill germs and also use a deodorant. I was quoted $160. In the end I purchased a filter for $35 and took less than five minutes to change it. Is the sanitisation process unnecessary unless there is a serious odour issue?

Richard, Hillarys

A We’d suggest it isn’t necessary to sanitise the ventilation system unless there’s a particularly bad odour. Replacing the cabin filter yourself is fine, but we’d recommend that major service items and safetyrelated work be undertaken by those with the correct qualifications and equipment.

Q Is it ok to manually change down through the gears of an automatic when slowing for a corner or a stop sign to reduce wear on the brake pads, or better to leave the transmission in Drive and use brakes only?

Barrie, Dawesville

A Given the performance of brakes on modern cars, and that the transmission is not specifically designed to slow the vehicle, we would not recommend using the gears this way unless it’s necessary, such as if the brakes fail. Manually using the transmission to slow the vehicle can accelerate transmission wear, and it’ll be cheaper to change the brake rotors and pads than to rebuild your transmission.

Q I bought a 2006 Mazda3 from a secondhand dealership and after inspection it has a slipping transmission from 1 to 2. The dealer’s mechanic says there is no problem with the transmission.

Steve, Boulder, WA

A Firstly, we would suggest using an independent mechanic to ascertain the extent of the transmission issue with your Mazda. This vehicle is too old to be eligible for a statutory warranty in WA, but it may still be worth exploring your options under Australian Consumer Law, which obliges sellers to ensure their goods comply with acceptable quality and durability expectations. 

WIN FREE FUEL

Send us your question for the Car Doctor and if it’s published, you’ll receive a $50 fuel voucher to use at any Puma location Australia-wide, thanks to RAC Member Benefits.

Send your questions to editor@rac.com.au or post to The Car Doctor, Horizons, GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839

Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number with your question.

If your question is chosen for publication, please allow up to eight weeks for delivery. See page 81 for terms and conditions of entry.

Member lounge

HEAT DAMAGE AND YOUR CAR BATTERY

Car batteries prefer milder temperatures for optimal performance. It’s the reason why RAC’s Roadside Assistance patrols receive many more callouts for flat batteries on cold winter days and very hot summer days.

Heat can be even worse for your battery than cold weather. During hot weather, under-bonnet temperatures can be extreme, creating an environment which can impact battery performance. The electrolyte inside the battery can evaporate which can lead to corrosion.

To help reduce the effect of heat on your battery, RAC Patrol Mark Dring recommends parking in a covered or shaded area on hot days and avoid using incar devices when the engine isn’t running.

“Most car batteries sit under the hood of the car, and along with engine temperatures being high, the hotter the weather, the hotter the battery gets.

“Battery manufacturers often have a cover or a device over their batteries to keep the temps down. People remove these thinking they’re not necessary. My advice is to keep on any cover the manufacturer provides.”

Batteries typically last for three to five years. If your battery is ageing, make sure it’s tested when your car is next serviced. This is especially important if you’re planning a long trip in hot weather.

To check how old your battery is, look for the date of manufacture on the battery casing. This date is more important than the date it was installed as batteries begin to degrade even while they’re sitting on the shelf. With the number of cars we service, RAC’s battery stocks are turned over regularly.

When it is time to replace your battery, contact us at rac.com.au/batteries

A lost Perth park brought back to life

Tucked away in a corner of West Perth is a tiny remnant of one of WA’s most historic parks.

Hamilton Park was first opened in 1917 and became one of the most communal recreational parks in Perth.

During the construction of the Mitchell Freeway in the 1970s, Hamilton Park was lost near Old Aberdeen Place. This year a group of locals are preparing to bring what’s left of the more than 100-year-old park back to life.

The space is a nature strip adjacent to Graham Farmer Freeway on Old Aberdeen Place in West Perth. It’s now part of a growing arts precinct called the Pickle District, named after the many pickle factories that operated in the area in the early 1900s.

The Pickle District Town Team is working in collaboration with the City of Vincent to restore Hamilton Park, so it’s once again a centre for community connection, with space for creative events, art markets, outdoor workshops and community festivals.

The project was funded through RAC’s Connecting Communities Fund, along with eight other community projects earmarked for 2023. The projects were voted on by more than 12,500 of our members, with the Pickle District park (Hamilton Park) receiving 42 per cent of the votes, the highest number of votes.

To find out what other projects we’re supporting in 2023, visit rac.com.au/ttm

AFTER Artist impression

SENIORS SAVE ON HOME SECURITY

To enable seniors across WA to better secure their homes, the Safety and Security Rebate provides a rebate on a range of devices.

WA Seniors Card members can claim up to $400 per household to purchase eligible home security or safety devices, including home security systems, fire and electrical safety devices.

The rebate can be claimed for the cost of purchase and installation by a licensed tradesperson for devices such as home alarms or security camera systems, Wi-Fi or wired video doorbells and repairs on eligible items.

To be claimed under the rebate, the products must meet the relevant Australian Standards and any contracted installation work must be carried out by a licensed contractor.

Before you make a purchase, check the eligible items guide at seniorscard.wa.gov.au

RAC also offers members with a WA Seniors Card a 15 per cent discount on RAC alarms and security cameras.

To discuss the range of system options with a security consultant, call RAC’s home security team on 1300 132 735 or visit rac.com.au/security

A new space for twowheeled commuters

In a first for WA, South Fremantle is now home to a new bike hub. Located on South Terrace, the hub includes parking for up to eight bikes, four lockable spaces for e-rideables such as e-scooters, bench seating and a ramp for accessibility use.

Made from 100-year-old jarrah, the attractive bike hub was created to encourage even more people to leave the car at home and ride into Fremantle, with a secure place to leave their bicycle or e-rideable.

The project was funded by RAC in partnership with Westcycle and the South Fremantle Corner Pocket Town Team, as part of our commitment to support more active transport across the state.

You can find the South Fremantle Bike Hub on the corner of South Terrace and Harbour Road, just outside La Cabana restaurant.

STOP DREAMING AND START PLANNING

Now is the perfect time to start firming up your holiday plans for the year ahead and the earlier you plan and book, the more options you’ll have. RAC’s travel team can make sure everything runs smoothly no matter where your next holiday adventure takes you. Our travel experts can guide you on the best options and best offers for overseas and domestic travel and cruise bookings.

RAC’s travel centres are located in Applecross, Carousel, Dianella, West Perth, Mandurah and Joondalup. Come in and see us or call 1300 655 179.

Celebrating a career that will never be equaled. almost forty years, Peter Brock gave the world the gift of excellence in all that he achieved. “Follow your dreams” was his philosophy. It was a belief that led him to a record nine wins at Bathurst and numerous other triumphs. In honour of the 75 coin, approved by the Brock family, recalls the skill and determination which placed Peter Brock amongst the greatest sportsmen the world has ever known. Showcasing the coveted art of Mark Sofilas, the design features the young lion and the elder statesman of touring car racing. Struck to a high specification, only 4,999 numbered issues will ever be minted.

The earliest applications will receive the lowest edition numbers. applications will be processed on a strictly first-come, first-served basis and are perAustralian household. Successful applicants also qualify to view the next coin in the Brock 75th Anniversary Golden Proof Coin Collection handling) sent entirely without obligation on our 14-day home approval service. Applicants may cancel at any time and all purchases are covered by The Bradford Exchange 14-Day Money-Back Guarantee.

Send No Money Now – Save $50.00 – yours for just $39.99 (plus P&H)

The fastest way to own this historic tribute is to order online at or on (02) 9841 3311. Alternatively complete and post the Reply Paid coupon.

This coin is not legal tender and bears no monetary face value.

Peter Brock and related marks are trademarks of Peter G. Brock Pty Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright 2023. ©2023 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617 403-CO146.01

Coming Soon “Birth Of A Legend”

Images subject to change

Pharmacy Services

Wizard Pharmacy offers a range of health services providing expert advice and caring support, designed to assist you along your journey to better health. Here’s just some of the health services available.

We’ve all experienced that dreadful feeling of getting in your car only to find out your battery is flat. Luckily West Aussie company iTechworld has designed a portable jump starter to get you on your way within seconds.

Designed to easily jumpstart any vehicle with a flat battery, the JS80 will jumpstart your car, boat or motorbike at the press of a button.

With a massive 3000 starting amps, the JS80 will start any vehicle, no matter how big or small. With seven inbuilt safety features, jump starting is safer than ever before. With the JS80, you no longer have to rely on clumsy jumper cables or other vehicles, allowing you to explore further with peace of mind.

The JS80 will jump start a vehicle up to 40 times from one charge and hold its charge for six months all while sitting happily in a glove box awaiting use.

Once your vehicle is started, the JS80 will continue to be your friend on the road and will easily run 12V fridges and charge mobile devices.

Jump Starter

My new JS80 Jump Starter arrived on time, as promised, so I charged it up and stored it in the included storage bag. Three weeks later, my wife had a flat battery and would be late to get the kids to school. I got my JS80 out, quickly and flawlessly jump-started her car, and away she went. Happy wife, happy life.

Allan S

Enjoy your life with improved hearing! You will be able to hear your family, your friends, the TV & telephone and in group settings much more clearly with this new 2023 hearing aid technology.

This New Invisible Hearing Aid is virtually undetectable!

No one will know that you are wearing a hearing aid

Introducing our brand-new 2023 hearing aid technology that was designed in Europe and is made for your exact ear size and hearing loss. It’s so small it can fit deep inside your ear canal, it begins where other hearing aids end. This makes it virtually invisible to anyone else.

Free Hearing Aid Demonstration

Not sure if you require a hearing aid or which one is right for you? Want to know how they look and feel? Why not request an appointment for a FREE hearing test and hearing aid consultation with an in-clinic demonstration? You will instantly be able to hear clearly. If appropriate, our hearing aid specialist can offer you a home hearing aid trial.

CAR DOCTOR PAGE 59

Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winners) will be awarded only one prize as follows: one $50 fuel voucher to use in one transaction at any Puma Energy location Australiawide. 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 February/March 2023 Horizons must claim their prize by 15 March 2023. 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 and security statement and group privacy policy.

WINNING MEMBER COMMENT

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 $195. 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 February/March 2023 Horizons must claim their prize by 15 March 2023. 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 and security statement and group privacy policy.

The Royal Automobile Club of WA (INC)

832 Wellington Street, West Perth

GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839

T: 13 17 03 W: rac.com.au

Member Service Centres – Metropolitan

CAROUSEL Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Highway

DIANELLA Shop 20, Dianella Plaza, 360/366 Grand Promenade

MANDURAH Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way

WEST PERTH (Head Office) 832 Wellington Street

Member Service Centres – Regional

ALBANY 110 Albany Highway

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Travel Centres

APPLECROSS

Shop 2, 14-16 Riseley Street T: 6150 6459

CAROUSEL Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Highway T: 6150 6454

DIANELLA Shop 20, Dianella Plaza, 360/366 Grand Promenade T: 6150 6455

JOONDALUP Shop T31, Lakeside Joondalup SC, 420 Joondalup Drive T: 6150 6477

MANDURAH Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way T: 6150 6456

WEST PERTH (Head Office) 832 Wellington Street T: 9436 4830 @RACWA editor@rac.com.au

Full terms and conditions for competitions available at rac.com.au/competitions

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

best

PICNIC SPOTS WITH WATER

Cottesloe Beach

VIEWS

Make the most of Perth’s glowing orange sunsets with a coastal picnic at Cottesloe Beach. From late afternoon, the grassy tiers on either side of the Indiana Tea House are teeming with couples, friends and families sharing a bite to eat as they watch the sun drop below the horizon. There’s a large carpark near the Indiana Tea House and another on Napier Street.

South Perth foreshore

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better view of the city than from the South Perth foreshore. No matter where you sit along the 4km of riverside grass and parkland, you’ll have a perfect view of the city’s skyscrapers and Elizabeth Quay. Until 2 April there are also food trucks at Sir James Mitchell Park Thursday to Sunday from 5pm.

Kings Park

Without doubt, Kings Park is Perth’s premier picnic spot with a view, no matter what time of day you visit. Stick to somewhere along Fraser Avenue or the State War Memorial. From the eastern side of the park, there are panoramic views of the city and the Swan River and a peek of the Darling Scarp in the distance. Dogs are allowed on lead.

Mardalup Park, East Perth

On the banks of the Swan River in East Perth, Mardalup Park is a relatively hidden picnicking spot that looks directly at the impressive forms of Optus Stadium and Matagarup Bridge. The park has plenty of picnic tables and benches, barbeques and leisure facilities.

Bay View Park, Mosman Park

This is a popular spot for weddings and it’s not hard to see why. Located right on the river’s edge, Bay View Park has a

ABOVE: The grassed tiers at Cottesloe Beach are an ideal spot for a picnic with ocean views.

large, grassed picnic area lined with trees and with elevated river views. For more sweeping views head to the upper level of the park or picnic on the grass close to the water’s edge on the lower level.

Sunset Hill, Scarborough

As the name implies, this grassy knoll on the Scarborough foreshore makes an excellent sunset vantage point. Claim a patch of grass earlier in the day and watch surfers giving their boards a good run. The kids can run wild at the adjacent Whale Playground and climbing wall or test their skills at the skate bowl.

Quarantine Park, Bicton

With views over the Swan River and the iconic Bicton Baths jetty, the grassy slope at Quarantine Park is a favourite local picnic spot. A bonus for dog owners is that it’s also an off-lead exercise area, so you can bring the whole family. If it’s warm, pack your bathers and head down to the water for a dip. The water here is quite clear, and the foreshore is relatively protected from the wind.

Heathcote Reserve, Applecross

This is not only a stunning picnic spot but also the location of an art gallery and museum as well as artist studios. The

reserve features the award-winning Pirate Ship playground which you won’t be able to tear the kids away from. There’s also a restaurant and a kiosk. The area is shaded by many tall trees.

Monument Hill, Fremantle

With an almost 360-degree view of Fremantle, Monument Hill is easily one of the most beautiful locations to tuck into a Freo picnic. You can set up anywhere on the 11-acre reserve, but the hilltop facing out west affords the best views. On a clear day, Rottnest and Garden islands are both visible on the horizon.

Matilda Bay, Crawley

The long, grassed area right on the water’s edge at Matilda Bay is a great spot to settle in for the day. Find a sheltered area under the trees and enjoy the city views. Bring a kayak or paddle board to explore from the water, and also work off some lunch. The area has picnic tables and free electric barbeques. 

DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA FOR THE TEN BEST?

Send your suggestions to editor@rac.com.au

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