Horizons 2015 February/March

What’s on in WA + Member Benefits + 10 of the best

Your RAC magazine February / March 2015

Win one of four great WA road trips! see page 28

Kimberley dreaming From Broome to Kununurra Wild island life

The Galapagos Islands’ extraordinary wildlife

Taxis under review What next for WA’s taxi industry?

Australia’s Best Cars Do you own a winner?

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Horizons

Inside

Your RAC magazine February / March 2015

Editor-in-Chief Will Golsby

Win one of four great WA escapes see page 28

Editor Justine Costigan Deputy Editor Vanessa Pogorelic Publisher Sarah Harris Design Glenn Moffatt Advertising Ben Treasure tel: 08 9388 7844 ben@mediatonic.com.au

Horizons is published for The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc)

by Hardie Grant Media Ground Level, Building 1 658 Church Street, Richmond Victoria 3121 Australia www.hardiegrant.com.au Managing Director Jeff Trounce jefftrounce@hardiegrant.com.au

18

A Kimberley adventure

Encounter the Kimberley’s vivid Aborignal culture on a road trip to remember.

CAB audited as at September 2014 is 514,331 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. Cover image: Kimberley region, WA Photography Theo Allofs/Corbis

12 Maps, signs & road rules A timeline of the first 20 years of the RAC.

32 Taxis under review

An independent taxi review examines WA’s taxi services.

43 Australia’s Best Cars Your guide to the best cars on the market.

4 Horizons February / March 2015

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Inside

More weird and wonderful Looking out for our feature on fabulously inventive cars? We’ll be publishing the story in a forthcoming issue. Stay tuned.

your Horizons 54 Member Lounge

22

38

Galapagos - wild island life

New ways to pay for our roads

46

82

New cars on the market

The 10 best camping grounds

Regulars

Travel

Move

7 President’s message

17 What’s on

38 Road pricing

Events around the state.

18 Kimberley dreaming

A fairer deal for motorists?

Road pricing may be an answer.

Explore the Kimberley’s rich Indigenous culture on an unforgettable road trip.

46 Test drive New cars on the market.

22 Wild island life

50 Car news The latest news in motoring.

News from the RAC.

The Galapagos Islands offer unmatched wildlife and natural beauty.

82 The 10 best

31 Travel brief

RAC celebrates 110 years of service.

8 Mailbox Members’ letters.

9 Exchange Sharing your views.

13 Snapshot

WA’s best camping grounds.

News from RAC Travel.

Read a personal account of losing a home to bushfire and how a good insurance policy can help reduce the impact. Plus tips for young drivers, an easy guide to home CCTV cameras and a new WA Indigenous tourism map.

59 Member Benefits Show your card and save on everything from vehicle maintenance to groceries, entertainment and travel.

Download our free Member Benefits app to discover where you can save with exclusive member offers.

Log on today

53 Car doctor

and make the most of your RAC membership

Your questions answered by our experts.

rac.com.au/memberbenefits

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President’s message

ight

C

00

The Royal Automobile Club of WA (INC) 832 Wellington Street, West Perth.

GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839. tel: 13 17 03 www.rac.com.au RAC Member Service Centres Metropolitan Carousel: Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. Morley: Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. West Perth (Head Office): 832 Wellington St. Regional Albany: 110 Albany Hwy. Bunbury: Shop 32, Stirling Centre, Stephen St. Geraldton: Shop 29, Centro Northgate Shopping Centre, Chapman Rd. Kalgoorlie: 51-53 Hannan St. Mandurah: Shop 112, Centro Mandurah Shopping Centre, Pinjarra Rd. RAC Travel Centres Carousel: Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. tel: 9365 4700 Joondalup: Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre (external), Boas Ave. tel: 9308 1600 Mandurah: Shop 112, Centro Shopping Centre, 330 Pinjarra Rd. tel: 9512 8200 Morley: Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. tel: 6466 2300 West Perth: 832 Wellington St. tel: 9436 4830 Hearing impaired members Emergency Roadside Assistance SMS number only 0434 182 877 Roadside Assistance 24 hours, 7 days TTY: 9303 8470 RAC contact numbers Roadside Assistance 13 11 11 Battery Services 13 11 11 Membership 13 17 03 Motoring Advice 13 17 03 Vehicle Condition Appraisals 1300 797 078 Insurance 13 17 03 Finance 13 17 03 Travel 13 17 03 Touring 13 17 03 Security Services 13 17 03 RAC Auto Services 1300 135 667 RAC DTEC 6189 4646

Serving Western Australians for 110 years In 2015, RAC celebrates its 110th anniversary. While much has changed over this time, the essence of our club and our unwavering commitment to our members remains the same.

The small group of WA car enthusiasts, which gathered in 1905 to form what would become the RAC, were motivated by far more than the need to form a social club.

From its beginnings, there was a great energy at the core of the club that saw it evolve into an organisation devoted not just to its members but to providing a public service.

There was a sense of civic duty that drove club members to signpost the state, to lobby for better roads and for greater protection for all road users – work that benefited the entire community.

It took great courage and commitment for those members tasked with mapping and signposting to venture into an often harsh landscape and survey remote roadways in our vast state in order to produce detailed maps and trusted information for motorists.

A desire to extend and improve WA’s road network was balanced by a need to preserve the environment around which those roads were slowly expanding. In 1920, the club was responsible for an area around the Nannup-Warren road being declared a National Park.

The RAC has always been an advocate for Western Australians.

In the 1930s the RAC joined the new WA Safety First Council. Throughout the 1960s and ‘70s we campaigned for the compulsory use of seatbelts.

During the 1970s we again campaigned heavily to raise awareness of the dangers of drink-driving.

The 1980s saw the RAC lobby the Federal Government for increased road funding.

The Australasian New Car Assessment Program was formed in the 1990s with the backing of the RAC and other state motoring clubs to test and rate the safety of vehicles.

At the turn of the century we developed new public campaigns that sought feedback from WA road users about unsafe roads and used the results to lobby for improvements.

The safety of road users, greater and fairer access to transport and a desire to promote, enjoy and preserve WA’s scenic wonders have been part of the essence of the RAC for 110 years.

In 2015, as we reflect on the club’s achievements over the past 11 decades, we realise that while so much has changed, our enduring commitment to WA, where our journey began and has continued for 110 years, in many ways remains exactly the same. ●

Esme Bowen RAC President

Your RAC Council President Esme Bowen Senior Vice President Tony Evans Vice President Jacqui Ronchi Members of Council Tim Shanahan, Dennis Banks, Allan Blagaich, Freda Crucitti, Jill Darby, Ross Dowling, Dalton Gooding, Alden Halse, Elizabeth Re, Julie Wadley, Emmerson Richardson, Stephanie Proud February / March 2015 Horizons 7

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Contact the editor

Mailbox

Email editor@rac.com.au or write to The Editor, RAC Horizons Magazine, GPO Box C140 Perth WA 6839.

Join the discussion about the RAC and the magazine little more to the left, I am sure I would have crashed and the poor car behind me would not have been able to stop. I have hit plastic and wood before and been okay but please make sure everything is secure and tied down, not only for bikes, but all road users.

Ron Smith

Rolling Stones rock!

Our winning letter

Stay left to save lives I applaud the RAC for telling readers (Horizons December/ January) to stay left and not to panic when they see an ambulance or police car with flashing lights. Twice last month I was driving on a busy road when an ambulance tried to pass. On both occasions it seemed that half the drivers around me were not aware of the ambulance five to 10 cars behind them. I pulled to the left, as did the driver in front of me, but other drivers seemed totally unaware of what was going on. Maybe drivers should be advised to turn their radios down or off, use their mirrors more often and check what is behind and next to them. If you need to wear glasses and a hearing aid do so.

When an ambulance has to get through to an accident or to the hospital a few minutes can make the difference between life and death. This ambulance had to snake its way through the ignorant traffic. Knowing the rules is great but we also have to remember to follow them.

Angela Gorman, Falcon

Danger at dusk I strongly approve of the letter “Lifesaving Lights” (Horizons October/November 2014).

It is surprising how many drivers think they only need headlights to see the road and give scant thought to actually being seen. One thing people may not realise is that the colour of their car has a direct bearing on how visible they are in poor light conditions. This is because the tonal values of a colour become much more critical in bad light. I am currently teaching my grandson to drive. My advice at intersections – especially at dusk or at night – is “look for the car, not for the lights”, even when it is fully dark and totally logical to expect others to have their lights on.

Lionel Thompson

Smart speed monitors?

Pressure should be brought to bear to bring speed signs into our modern technological age so that motorists are warned when passing from one speed zone to another. If we have satellite navigation devices and ankle bracelets to monitor people on parole, why then can’t

we have transmitters on speed signs and receivers in our cars set up to tell the driver of a change in speed? This would help the conscientious driver stay within the speed of a particular area.

D M Graham RAC response: This kind of technology is available on some new cars. The more common type runs off the vehicle’s GPS to warn the driver of speed-zone changes. The other, more advanced type, uses a camera and specially developed software to recognise the actual speed-limit signs. This is more effective as it can detect temporary speed-limit changes, such as those for roadworks.

Secure and safe Like most motorcycle riders I have dodged cars or hit pot holes on the tarmac that has seen my heart-rate spike. A bug in the face or a stone in the shin at 100km/h can take the shine out of riding but a couple of weeks ago I had a big scare. In the middle lane of the Kwinana Freeway a complete steel tow-ball assembly had fallen off a car and as I changed lanes I hit it straight on. It smashed into the bike frame but if a

We are a couple of old “rockers”, both in our early 60s, but still very young at heart. When we received the call from RAC advising we had won tickets to attend the Saturday night Rolling Stones concert it is probably the only time in the last 10 years I wish I had bought and installed a defibrillator in the house! We were so excited that we took up our front row seats just after 7pm and watched the Arena go from zero to 100 per cent full over the next 90 minutes.

We took a few ‘selfies’ and sent them out to family and friends all of whom were very envious. It took a while to get our hearing and voices back, not to mention regaining the use of muscles that had not been used for years! A great night, great seats, great performance. Thanks RAC! Trevor and Liz Trevor and Liz won Perth Arena concert tickets for signing up to RAC’s Member Benefits eNewsletter.

You can be a winner Each issue, the author of the best letter will win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance.

Classic Roadside Assistance gives motorists additional peace of mind by offering a range of extended benefits.

For assistance or more information

call 13 17 03 or visit rac.com.au

Terms and conditions on page 79.

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

8 Horizons February / March 2015

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Exchange Feedback, opinion and fast facts

RAC ONLINE POLL

Tell us ...

Thinking about your experiences using traditional taxi services in WA in the past 12 months, overall are you satisfied with the services you received?

Take our poll at rac.com.au/exchange

THE CARS WA DRIVERS LOVE MOST

Toyota HiLux 4x4 Toyota Corolla Mazda3 Hyundai i30 Toyota Prado Highest selling vehicle models in WA, calendar year to September 30, 2014. Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

MOTORING TAXES

What’s the most effective way to change risky driving behaviour during the Christmas period?

For every dollar collected by the Federal Government from WA motorists, just 41 cents goes towards improving the state’s roads.

77

%

said increased visible presence of police on the road.

facebook.com/racwa

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Exchange your views by email: editor@rac.com.au December February/ January / March 2015 Horizons 9

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Inclusions » Return economy airfares from Perth » 10 nights quality accommodation » Travel by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access » Sightseeing activities and highlights as per itinerary » Meals as indicated in itinerary with welcome and farewell dinners » Services of an RAC tour escort from Perth plus tour director joining in Hobart

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Price advertised is per person twin share is inclusive of Virgin Australia or Qantas flights with baggage included and based on airfares and taxes priced on 15 December 2015 and are subject to change.

Group booking form must be completed and a deposit of $1000 per person is due at time of booking. A Tour escort from Perth is subject to minimum numbers (16 passengers), should this number not be met, the tour will still depart with tour director joining in Hobart from Day 2. Solo Travellers: For persons travelling alone but wishing to share, we will endeavour to match these passengers with other single passengers of the same gender. If we are unable to do so, a single supplement will be payable ($859) at time of final payment. Final payment due on or before 30 June 2015. Travel insurance is not included – please ask your travel consultant for a quote. AAT kings terms and conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

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110 years of RAC Part 1 – 1905 to 1925

This year, the RAC celebrates its 110th anniversary, with several special events and activities planned throughout the year.

In the first of a series of stories, Horizons will look back at turning points and milestones in the club’s history, starting with the period from 1905, when the Automobile Club of Western Australia was first formed, through to 1925.

1 July

28 January

1905

A group of motorists travel to the home of Mr and Mrs R Strelitz in what is now Peppermint Grove, to discuss the formation of an automobile club. Around 50 people attend with 24 cars and several motorcycles. This is recognised as the first official meeting of the club.

1905

1911

The Automobile Club of Western Australia is formally inaugurated at Government House. The club’s early years are spent signposting roads and creating maps of the state for motorists, as well as organising motoring-based social activities for members.

The club produces the first road map detailing WA’s South West.

1913 WA’s Automobile Club receives approval from the Deputy Post Master General to display directional signs and plates showing travel distances on telegraph posts.

1919 The new Traffic Act becomes law.

The club then begins pushing for a Main Roads Board to oversee and maintain all carriageways deemed as main roads and to plan for new roads.

1915

1920 The Automobile Club of WA successfully campaigns to have an area each side of a portion of the Nannup-Warren road declared a National Park, ensuring the area’s immense karri trees will be preserved.

1918 The club lobbies the government for more uniform traffic regulations across the state and greater protection for motorists against other forms of traffic using the roads.

Members and other motorists donate £1000 to the British War Office to purchase two military ambulances. Members also volunteer cars for use in local military administration work and transporting wounded soldiers returning from the war.

1922

1924

1925

The club is granted permission to use the title Royal in its name. In the same year, it also speaks out against the 55 per cent duty levied against imported car parts by the Federal Government.

To ensure motorists involved in car accidents and breakdowns on the state’s country roads can call for help, the RAC begins pushing for public telephones to be installed at popular stops.

Representatives of various motoring clubs attend a conference in Adelaide and a federal body, the Commonwealth Association of Automobile Organisations, is formed.

12 Horizons February / March 2015

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

Snapshot News in brief from the RAC & beyond WA’s riskiest roads



Free vehicle emissions tests

Motorists can check their vehicle’s emissions to determine if their car needs servicing to help save fuel and improve air quality at a special vehicle-emissions testing day.

The free drive-through vehicle tests will be offered by the Department of Environment Regulation on 22 March in Kings Park.

The department’s CleanRun remote-sensing device measures carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitric oxide and smoke and provides instant feedback as motorists pass a digital sign which flashes a rank for the vehicle as good, fair or poor.

Vehicles with a poor emissions reading will not be penalised. However, motorists are encouraged to have their cars checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Team members from RAC Auto Services and RAC Roadside Assistance will be on site to answer questions about how to improve emissions scores.

Motor vehicle emissions are the largest source of air pollution in the Perth metropolitan area.

For more information about the free emissions testing day visit der.wa.gov.au/cleanrun.

RAC’s Risky Roads campaign identified the community’s views on the state’s most dangerous roads.

RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said the statewide survey across metropolitan and regional WA received more than 5,000 nominations.

“The 2014 Risky Roads results have highlighted the urgent need for the State Government’s budget to deliver an increase in road funding across metropolitan and regional roads,” Mr Golsby said.

“This funding is urgent because, tragically, Western Australia’s road fatality rate remains unacceptably high.

“WA’s metropolitan and regional road network is also under pressure with a cap on the level of road funding provided to local government, and a 15 per cent per year reduction in funding from the road maintenance budget over the next three years.

“This is on top of the huge backlog in road maintenance which was identified in 2009 by the Auditor General, and estimated to be $800 million.

“There is over 187,000 kilometres of road in Western Australia and no one knows it better than the people who drive, ride, cycle or walk on it every day.

“The Risky Roads campaign empowers community members to voice their concerns about dangerous roads and intersections, so we can work together with relevant authorities to get them fixed and ultimately try to save lives.”

To see the top 10 nominated risky roads from across the state visit rac.com.au/riskyroads.

School zone speed limits School zones will be busy again from the beginning of February as students return to school for term one.

All drivers are reminded to be extra cautious around school zones and to drive within the posted limits.

School zones with a limit of 40km/h are in place outside primary and high schools from 7.30am to 9am and again from 2.30pm to 4pm on all school days.

At other times the regular speed limit applies.

With approximately 70 per cent of students being driven to school compared with about 25 per cent during the 1970s, the danger from congestion around school zones has significantly increased.

Parents of children riding bicycles to school should educate them about road safety and ensure they always wear a well-fitted bike helmet.

February / March 2015 Horizons 13

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Snapshot Download our free Horizons app

to discover where you can save on everything from vehicle maintenance to groceries, entertainment and travel.

Connecting people and bicycles

Nominate a volunteer of the year RAC is once again supporting the Western Australian Community Volunteer of the Year Award, which recognises dedicated WA volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to the community.

In 2014, Conquer Cystic Fibrosis (CCF) was announced as the recipient at the annual Volunteering WA Gala Awards.

Conquer Cystic Fibrosis was established by a group of volunteers to help raise awareness of Cystic Fibrosis, a condition that affects the lungs and digestive system of young people and requires constant medical treatment and physiotherapy.

The incredible volunteers at CCF have raised over $1.5 million, which is no small feat considering the group started in 2002 with just a handful of passionate parents wanting to make a difference.

Wendy Endebrock-Brown from CCF said the award provided further inspiration to all volunteers involved with the organisation and has lifted the small charity’s profile.

“It has given us something to be very proud of and has also given us a new level of credibility with potential supporters, which is just so incredibly important and significant for a small charity like ours. We are so grateful to the RAC for that.”

Nominate now



If you would like to nominate an individual volunteer or a volunteer organisation for the 2015 Awards, download a nomination form at volunteeringwa.org.au or contact Volunteering WA on 9482 4333. Nominations are open until 20 March, 2015.

Our ‘steer-clear’ list of new cars

In the first half of 2014, 90 per cent of new passenger vehicles sold held a five-star ANCAP safety rating. However, only 55 per cent of light commercial vehicles offered the same high level of safety.

The RAC continues to exert pressure on manufacturers to improve the safety of light commercial vehicles, which are currently granted regulatory concessions when it comes to safety.

In 2014, the Great Wall V200 4x4 single cab once again achieved an unacceptably low score of only 3 stars. Among light commercial vehicles, it joined the Foton Tunland 4x4 dual cab and the Mahindra Pik-Up, both of which have only three stars.

Alex Forrest, RAC Manager Vehicles and Fuels, said a lower price point continued to pull buyers to lesser–rated commercial vehicles, such as the Great Wall.

RAC is excited to announce a partnership through our Community Sponsorships program with Dismantle – a not-for-profit group promoting cycling in WA. Dismantle uses bicycles to connect people and is working with RAC to promote inclusive and safe cycling in Perth and greater WA through various innovative initiatives.

One such initiative is their online video series, which covers topics from bike maintenance to road safety, and aims to create a stronger sense of community among cyclists and stimulate discussion about safe riding.

To find out more about Dismantle and to view their video series visit dismantle.org.au.

For more information about applying for a Community Sponsorship visit rac.com.au/sponsorship.

President’s cocktail reception More than 300 guests gathered at the State Reception Centre, Kings Park, late last year to join RAC President Esme Bowen at the annual RAC President’s Cocktail Reception.

The evening highlights RAC’s advocacy work and our ongoing commitment to safer, sustainable and more accessible transport options for all Western Australians.

“While passenger car buyers can now confidently put safety at the top of their priority list regardless of their budget, those buying light commercials are not being afforded the same choice.”

The steer-clear list Great Wall Motors V200 4x4 single cab Nissan Patrol Y61 series 3 litre diesel Foton Tunland 4x4 Dual Cab Mahindra Pik-Up Dual Cab 4x4 Geely MK hatch and sedan

★★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★★★

RAC President Esme Bowen with the Hon. Joe Francis MLA, Minister for Emergency Services.

14 Horizons February / March 2015

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WEST AUSTRALIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

*2015 SEASON DON’T MISS THE OPENING CONCERTS!

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SARAH CHANG PLAYS BRUCH Fri 13 & Sat 14 Mar 7.30pm Perth Concert Hall

Sarah Chang performs Bruch’s popular First Violin Concerto – full of rich harmonies, irresistible melodies, and an exhilarating finale.

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RHAPSODY IN BLUE

Fri 20 & Sat 21 Mar 7.30pm Perth Concert Hall Principal Conductor Asher Fisch performs Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Also on the program are popular Gershwin songs and arias from Viennese operetta.

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MISCHA MAISKY IN CONCERT Fri 27 & Sat 28 Mar 7.30pm Perth Concert Hall Mischa Maisky is quite simply one of the greatest cellists of our time. Don’t miss his first ever Perth performances!

THE MUSIC OF JAMES BOND

Thu 23 Apr 7.30pm Perth Concert Hall

Fri 10 & Sat 11 Apr 8pm Perth Concert Hall

A moving and reflective concert honouring those who served their country and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

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What’s on

 Events around the state in February and March Dinner

Ballet at the Quarry

14 to 29 March The dinner party from hell is the setting for this black comedy full of deliciously entertaining characters and comedic situations. Soon the eclectic mix of guests is divulging their deepest, darkest secrets and hilarity inevitably ensues.

6 to 28 February

Watch the dancers of the West Australian Ballet under the stars at the Quarry Amphitheatre.

Headlined by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s Zip Zap Zoom, the performance also includes the world premiere of Hold the Fourth, choreographed by the Ballet’s own Daniel Roberts.

For more information go to bsstc.com.au.

Northam Flying Fifty 28 and 29 March A free classic car event for all ages, the Northam Flying Fifty will transform the main streets of Northam into a circuit with classic racing cars competing in time trials, vintage car display areas, market stalls, children’s rides and activities.

For more information go to vsccwa.com.au.

For more information go to waballet.com.au/whats-on.

Sunsmart Busselton Jetty Swim 7 and 8 February Held over two days, with plenty of family-friendly activities and entertainment, the 3.6km swim out and around the iconic Busselton Jetty is likely to attract up to 2000 participants this year.

For more information go to busseltonjettyswim.org.au.

Boyup Brook Country Music Festival

Arts Festival brings some of the world’s best contemporary theatre, dance, music, film, visual arts and literature to the city.

For more information go to 2015.perthfestival.com.au.

Rottnest Channel Swim 21 February Rottnest Island’s biggest day of the year, the annual Rottnest Channel Swim is a 19.7 kilometre open water swim from Cottesloe

11 to 15 February With live music, Western Australia’s biggest bush poets’ breakfast, a street carnival, the West Australian Country Music Awards, concerts, workshops, the Boyup Brook Art Awards and more, the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival has something for everyone.

WASO-002

28 February to 29 March More than 45 individual events will be held across the South West region ranging from farmers markets, pop-up dinners, guest chef cooking demonstrations, degustation dinners, beach barbecues and picnics.

6 to 23 March One of Perth’s largest free public events, Sculpture by the Sea returns to Cottelsoe, transforming the beach into a sculpture park with more than 70 sculptures on display from artists across Australia and around the world.

Taste Great Southern

For more information go to sculpturebythesea.com.

RAC Perth Caravan and Camping Show 18 to 22 March

Visit Claremont Showground from 9am -5pm daily for the latest in caravans, camper trailers, motor-homes, fifth-wheelers, tents, camping equipment, caravan and camping accessories, tourist information, caravan parks and much more.

RAC members receive 10% off admission.

For more information go to caravanandcamping show.com.au.

February / March 2015 Horizons 17

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1:54 pm

Taste Great Southern

Sculpture by the Sea

Perth International Arts Festival 13 February to 7 March One of the state’s premier cultural events, the Perth International

For more information go to rottnestchannelswim.com.au.

For more information go to greatsoutherntastewa.com.

For more information go to countrymusicwa.com.au.

au

Beach to Rottnest Island.

A ‘team’ event, all swimmers are surrounded by a support network of paddlers, boat skippers and crew.

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Travel

Story Ute Junker

Into the Kimberley’s Indigenous heart Ute Junker takes a road trip through the Kimberley and discovers a region rich in Aboriginal cultures, history and hospitality.

A

rriving in the Kimberley is like landing on a different planet. Here, everything is extreme.

The colours – the red of the soil, the turquoise of the sky – are so bright, they are almost hallucinatory.

Waterways appear and disappear, depending on the season: a river can swell from a mere trickle in the dry season to a raging 13km-wide torrent in the wet.

The Kimberley remains one of Australia’s most sparsely populated regions, and one of its most unexplored. The first Europeans arrived here as late as the 1890s, and the culture of its Aboriginal peoples

remains a potent force to this day.

A drive through this rugged, surprising country is an adventure.

As you travel the dusty, rutted roads, you will experience sights most will never see, as well as encountering the area’s vivid Aboriginal cultures.

Traditional owners are increasingly welcoming visitors to their land. In some cases, they offer accommodation; in others, cultural tours that introduce the landscape and the stories associated with it.

Most people start their Kimberley exploration in Broome, visiting Cape Leveque to the north before heading east past Derby or Fitzroy Crossing to

join the Gibb River Road, which goes all the way to Kununurra. On Cape Leveque, Aboriginal communities at both Lombadina and Kooljaman offer accommodation including safari tents and simple cabins, as well as cultural tours and adventure activities. Let a Lombadina local teach you how to catch mud crabs in the mangroves, or take a different kind of coastal tour with Brian Lee at Kooljaman.

Lee’s award-winning 4WD Tag-AlongTour has become one of the area’s top attractions. Driving their own four-wheel drives, visitors follow Lee along the beach to Hunter’s Creek, traditional land otherwise off-limits to whitefellas.

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The majestic Fitzroy River snakes its way through the region.

As you travel the dusty, rutted roads, you will experience sights most will never see, as well as encountering the area’s vivid Aboriginal cultures.

The rocky red coast around Broome.

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Fast facts Where is it?

The Kimberley is one of the country’s wildest, most beautiful landscapes. In the far north of Western Australia, the Kimberley covers an area the size of Texas, but has only around 36,000 inhabitants.

Driving times and distances Broome to Kooljaman: 220km, around three hours Broome to Fitzroy Crossing: 395km, around 4.5 hours Fitzroy Crossing to Manning Gorge: 355km, around 6 hours Manning Gorge to El Questro: 395km, around 5.5 hours El Questro to Kununurra: 110km, 90 mins

Preparation The Gibb River Road should only be attempted in a four-wheel drive.

Err on the side of caution when stocking up on water, food and petrol.

Mobile coverage is patchy outside major centres. If you break down, stay with your car and wait for another vehicle to come by.

At the least, you should have two spare tyres, a good toolkit, a puncture repair kit, a high-lift jack and a good torch.

Road conditions are variable, and the dust can conceal deep potholes. Drive slowly, and give way to trucks and road trains.

When to go The Gibb River Road is only open during the dry season (roughly April to September). If you can, travel early in the season to enjoy more water in the gorges.

Where to stay Lombadina Community, Cape Leveque The two-bedroom cabins at this Aboriginal community are basic, but it’s the chance to take part in activities such as mud crabbing that make this option appealing. lombadina.com Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing From basic campsites to ensuite safari tents, this 50 acre site has a wide range of accommodation. fitzroyriverlodge.com.au El Questro Wilderness Park Choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit any budget, from camping to the five-star Homestead. elquestro.com.au

Don’t miss Channel your inner Indiana Jones at Tunnel Creek and wade through a thigh-deep underground river.

An elder of the Bardi tribe, the cheerful Lee shares stories about the area, as well as introducing a wide variety of bush tucker. Cool off in the river, savouring the beautiful landscape, and trade stories with Lee, while the fish he’s speared for lunch cooks over the fire.

Along the Gibb River Road, another elder leads a very different, but equally fascinating, tour. Dillon Andrew’s Bungoolee Tours offers a tour taking in two of the area’s most scenic sights: Windjana Gorge, where freshwater crocodiles bask on the banks of a shallow pool, and the subterranean Tunnel Creek.

What really sets this tour apart, however, is

the insight that Dillon, a Bunuba elder, is able to give into the forgotten history of the area.

When white pastoralists moved into this area in the 1890s, the region’s Aboriginal peoples fought a fierce frontier war. One of the most revered warriors, Tjandamurra, was a police tracker before turning freedom fighter.

He battled the invaders for three years before being fatally wounded. In traditional fashion, Dillon tells each part of his story in the place where it happened.

Amid the echoing Windjana Gorge, we hear about a fierce gun battle and imagine the shots reverberating in the enclosed

20 Horizons February / March 2015

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Travel

facing page (top to bottom): Windjana Gorge, one of the region’s most scenic sights.

Entrance to the subterranean Tunnel Creek.

Gibb River Road near Windjana Gorge.

Collier Rocks, Cape Leveque, Dampier Peninsula.

space; wading through Tunnel Creek with water up to our thighs, we learn how the wounded Tjandamurra used this creek as a secret escape route. When Dillon gets out his clapping sticks to sing a song honouring his fallen ancestors, it sends a chill up our spines.

Another highlight is the tour of Mimbi Caves, near the township of Fitzroy Crossing, offered by Girloorloo Indigenous Tours. On this occasion, our guides are women – the stories of this area are women’s business, just as Dillon Andrews’ stories are men’s business.

Approaching the Mimbi Caves, we see what appears to be an outcropping of high cliffs. This is in fact the remnants of an ancient coral reef. Our guides lead us, through a narrow opening, into a wide valley, where they explain the various plants that form bush tucker and bush medicine.

Aboriginal rock art, Barnett River Gorge.

We don hard hats with torches to enter the caves, a labyrinthine system of narrow passages where you could easily get lost. Along the walls, we spot ancient fossils and rock paintings that tell stories belonging to this area.

Along the Gibb River Road, take some time to explore the various gorges, lush oases in this dry landscape. Some of the must-sees include Barnett River Gorge and Manning Gorge, perhaps the area’s most stunning gorge.

The best way to get to the gorge is to swim across the river (Styrofoam boxes are provided so you can float your belongings across). It’s a bit of a hike along a well-marked track, but well worth it. The rock pools here retain their water all year around, but if you come early in the season, you will also be able to see the local waterfall before it dries up in the Kimberley heat. l

zz z

Tribal voice Looking for an insight into Indigenous culture? The best Aboriginal tourism experiences in the Kimberley and beyond are highlighted on the new edition of the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council map. It lists everything from Aboriginal-run accommodation to bush tours and art centres. The map can be picked up for free at RAC Member Service Centres and at visitor centres around the state.

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February / March 2015 Horizons 21

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Travel

Story Sally Macmillan

below: Sally Lightfoot crab.

Sea lions sleeping on a beach.

A Darwin finch.

Wild island life Seeing rare animals and birds up close in their native habitat is just one of the many reasons to take an expedition cruise in the Galapagos Islands, writes Sally Macmillan.

22 Horizons February February // March March 2015 2015

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Travel

F

lying into Santiago over the snow-capped Andes is a spectacular introduction to South America for a firsttimer like me. We left Sydney at dawn for our flights to Ecuador’s major port city of Guayaquil, and by the time we checked into the Hilton we’d lost count of the hours spent getting there. But we knew we were in for a very special experience – it was just a 90-minute flight the next morning to the island of Baltra, where we were set to board Lindblad’s National Geographic Endeavour for a seven-day wildlife expedition.

Our welcome aboard National Geographic Endeavour, a traditional expedition vessel that has been plying the world’s oceans for 48 years and is fitted out with state-of-the-art

exploration equipment, could not have been friendlier. The ship is crewed by Ecuadorians who know the islands intimately and are expert naturalists and photographers. With a capacity of 96 passengers, it’s one of the largest ships to sail in the region.

From the moment the ship’s Zodiacs (motorised dinghys) pick us up at the jetty the wildlife sightings begin – sea lions are lolling around the landing stage, looking as though they are resting up after a big night.

Once we’re aboard we check in to our cabins; mine has twin beds, two windows, ensuite bathroom and plenty of storage space. I love the fact there’s a big, hardback National Geographic atlas by the desk, and it takes me a while to realise there is no TV – over the coming days I didn’t miss it once. There aren’t any

locks on the doors, either; initially it feels a little strange leaving the laptop and devices on the desk when going out but the trust system enhances the community atmosphere on the ship.

After all the passengers and crew meet for a briefing and a hearty lunch we set off for our first port of call, Las Bachas on Santa Cruz island. On the white-sand beach we see some of the Galapagos Islands’ most famous native creatures, marine iguana and neon pink-andorange Sally Lightfoot crabs; beyond the shoreline a rare pink flamingo paddles photogenically in a shallow pool and flocks of frigate birds fly overhead.

Over the following three days we visit four different islands – North Seymour, Rabida, Fernandina and Isabela – celebrate crossing the equator with a champagne party on deck, and spend

On the white-sand beach we see some of the Galapagos Islands’ most famous native creatures, marine iguana and neon pink-andorange Sally Lightfoot crabs.

Marine iguana on Fernandina Island, Galapagos.

February // March March 2015 Horizons 23 February

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Travel A cruise vessel moored off the islands; up close and personal with a giant Galapagos tortoise; the mating dance of the bluefooted boobie; swimming with sea turtles.

A male frigate bird puffs up his red breast as part of a mating ritual; and a rare pink flamingo.

Experience Patagonia Patagonia is a vast region at the southern tip of South America that is shared by Chile and Argentina. It sits between the Pacific Ocean on its western side and the Atlantic on the east coast.

The famous (or infamous) Cape Horn is in the Tierra del Fuego archipelago to the south-west and belongs to Chile and Argentina, while Ushuaia, the capital of Tierra del Fuego, is the departure point for Antarctic expeditions.

There are so many diverse natural wonders in this wild, remote area that if time is limited, you’ll have to decide which

attractions you want to focus on. Will it be hiking in the world-renowned Parque Nacional Torres del Paine (below), icetrekking in Los Glaciares National Park, or staying on a traditional estancia (ranch) in the wide-open steppes?

Adventurous cruisers can cover a lot of ground (and ocean) by sea.

Lindblad operates a 15-day Patagonian expedition on National Geographic Explorer.

It departs from Buenos Aires (a two-hour flight from Santiago) and sails down the East Coast, around Cape Horn and through the Chilean fjords.

as much time as possible in the water swimming and snorkelling.

We’re divided into two groups for snorkelling, “refreshers or learners” and “deep-water people”. You find your own level, depending on your fitness and experience; age has very little to do with it, with the oldest person on our trip being 80-something and the youngest six.

Swimming within touching distance of sea turtles, penguins and sea lions, spotting stingrays, white-tipped sharks and innumerable exotic tropical fish is simply mind-blowing. The water temperature is between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius mid-year; shortie wetsuits are supplied by the ship and not only keep you warm but increase your buoyancy and give some protection from jellyfish stings.

Kayaks and glass-bottomed boats are launched as well as Zodiacs full of eager snorkellers; however, our naturalists tell us kayaking is restricted to certain areas because the “visual pollution” of the bright-orange vessels can disturb some birds and animals.

Hiking and photographic tours around the islands are also offered daily. The islands are volcanic and

range in age from 4 million years to a few hundred thousand years old, so each one is home to distinctive flora and fauna. Isabela is the biggest island and on day four of our trip we make a wet landing at Urbina Bay, where during the 1954 earthquake, 1.5 square kilometres of marine reef was thrown up to four metres higher than before.

Not far inland we see our first giant Galapagos tortoise, which, according to our naturalist guide Greg, is about 60 years old. These majestic creatures live up to 100 years old (the oldest on record was 152 when he died), can be 1.5 metres long and weigh up to 250 kilograms.

You can learn more about them and

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Travel

Fast facts

Where are they?

The Galapagos Islands make up an archipelago of 19 main islands north and south of the Equator in the Pacific Ocean. They are about 1600 kilometres west of the Ecuadorian mainland and are a province of Ecuador, as well as being a national park and marine reserve.

It is the most important marine reserve in Ecuador and the second-largest in the world, covering about 133,000 square kilometres. The population is about 25,000 and most people live on the Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela islands.

When to go

the efforts being made to breed and re-populate their native habitats at the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island, but nothing beats seeing them in the bush, gently munching grass and leaves, and basking in the sun.

The Galapagos Islands are also an ornithologist’s dream. Apart from the famed Darwin finches (which are relatively difficult to see), you’ll see blue-footed boobies, redfooted boobies, frigate birds (the males have the big red chests), flightless cormorants, albatrosses and dozens of other bird species.

Like the islands’ reptiles and mammals, the birds have no inbuilt fear of humans, so you can observe

and photograph them just a couple of feet away from you.

Every evening before dinner everyone gathers in the lounge for a drink and recap of the day’s sightings and activities, and a briefing for the next day. The National Geographic photographers hold photo workshops for passengers who range from nearprofessional enthusiasts to amateur point-and-shooters, and everyone learns something. Which is what this expedition is all about – a thoroughly enjoyable, uplifting and educational travel experience. l Sally Macmillan travelled as a guest of Lindblad Expeditions.

Ships operate in the Galapagos year round, although ship and visitor numbers are strictly limited by the local Marine Reserve authorities in order to conserve the marine ecosystem.

The peak season for visitors is during the Christmas holidays.

January to June is the warm, wetter season and from June to December temperatures are slightly lower.

Sea temperatures influence the activities of marine wildlife; for example, in June-July a cold-water current brings plankton, which attracts fish and birds such as penguins and albatrosses.

What to take l Take lightweight essentials for swimming, snorkelling and walking. l When swimming in the cooler months (June to December) a flexible, ultralight (1mm to 2mm) wetsuit is recommended for wearing underneath the ship-supplied wetsuits. l Sturdy walking shoes for island hikes and water-

friendly sandals, for wet landings, are essential. l High-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent and antihistamine cream for stings. l A small waterproof backpack (and lots of Ziploc bags) for your camera equipment, a waterproof camera as well as your regular camera/s, and extra memory cards.

Before you go You don’t need a visa but your passport must have at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia.

Check cruise-specific travel insurance policies that cover eventualities some regular travel insurance policies do not.

How to get there There are no direct flights to South America from Perth, with most options requiring either a domestic stop or a stop in Auckland, or both.

LAN Airlines operates seven one-stop flights each week from Sydney to Santiago, Chile, with onward connections to Quito or Guayaquil for the Galapagos Islands and Punta Arenas, Chile, for Patagonia. LAN also offers non-stop flights between Sydney and Santiago every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday in a codeshare partnership with Qantas.

Bring home While you don’t visit the Galapagos Islands to go shopping, you can help support the local economy by buying some Ecuadorian coffee and chocolate, or locally made wood carvings and ceramics.

Or you can support wildlife conservancy by symbolically adopting a sea lion, marine iguana or giant tortoise: from $30, see galapagos.org.

Don’t miss Snorkelling and swimming with sea turtles, rays, penguins and thousands of tropical fish.

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Ask about our Indian Pacific holiday packages available. *From $1449pp based on the Adult Gold Service Twin Share price for Taste of the Top End package. For new bookings from 12 January to 28 February 2015 only for travel from 1 May 2015 with travel to be completed by 31 March 2016. Offer subject to availability at time of booking and may not be available on the first date requested. ^Blackout dates apply for Gold Twin cabins as follows: Adelaide-Alice SpringsDarwin: May to November 2015. Other blackout dates apply; please call for details. Full payment of the rail sector required at the time of booking. 100% cancellation fees apply to the rail sector. 50% cancellation fees apply to accommodation and tour components if cancelling 14-45 days before departure. 100% cancellation fee applies to accommodation and tour components cancelled less than 14 days before departure. No amendments allowed. Non transferable. Credit card fees apply. Not available with any other offer other than Accompanied Motorail discount. Timetables and Off Train Excursions subject to change without notice. Travel Agent License No. 9TA1.

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BIG WA

The giveaway

Star Ratings Australia – the only independent assessor of accommodation in Australia – and RAC are giving members the chance to win one of four iconic WA self-drive holidays featuring star-rated accommodation.

All holiday packages include car hire and accommodation in properties rated 3.5 or above and are for four people, so you can share our beautiful state with family or friends.

South West Delight

To enter: Visit rac.com.au/bigwagiveaway and complete the online entry form where you can choose one of the four trips.

Or send your name, phone number and membership number to: Horizons/ Big WA Giveaway GPO Box 2946 PERTH WA 6800 On the envelope, remember to specify which ONE of the four trips you’d like to win: Broome Escape, Ningaloo Dreaming, South West Delight or Eastern & Southern Wanderer.

See page 79 for terms and conditions.

Photography courtesy of Tourism WA

Choose from one of the following trips: Broome Escape – a five night beach break in Broome, including return flights from Perth, plus car hire so you can explore the region.

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Ningaloo Dreaming

28 Horizons February / March 2015

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Star Ratings Australia independently review accommodation on behalf of RAC members – because the accommodation you expect should be the accommodation you get.

For more details see rac.com.au/travel.

Eastern & Southern Wanderer

Broome Escape

February / March 2015 Horizons 29

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Rollin’ Mississippi

Escorted from Perth

15 day Steamboat & Soulful South tour Inclusions » Return economy airfares from Perth to New Orleans returning from Nashville » 2 nights New Orleans » 7 night cruise aboard American Queen from New Orleans to Memphis with included touring » 2 nights in Memphis “American Music” extension, includes touring » 3 nights Nashville » Meals as specific in itinerary » Extensive sightseeing with expert local guides » All transfers » All taxes and onboard gratuities » US$300 per stateroom onboard credit » Optional extensions » Services of a RAC tour escort from Perth » Hosted by Graham & Merle Mabury

15 days » Departing June 2015 from

11,969

$

*

per person twin share

Hosted by former 6PR radio presenter, Graham Mabury

Call 1300 655 898, go to rac.com.au/cruise or visit your local RAC Travel Centre

R14022

Pricing is correct as at 22 December 2014 and is based on Category C Cabin. All pricing is subject to currency fluctuations until paid in full. Gratuities are included in the advertised price. A non-refundable deposit of $1,200 per person deposit is due within 7 days of confirmation. A second deposit instalment of $600 per guest is due by 16 March 2015. Signed and completed booking forms are to be returned within 7 days of confirmation. Airfare component is subject to availability and price increases until ticketed. Any changes, amendments or cancellation after ticketing may incur imposing airline fees in addition to RAC Travel fees. Final payment is due by Thursday 30 April 2015. Travel Insurance is an essential requirement for this departure and can be arranged with your RAC Travel consultant. US$300 onboard credit will be credited to your onboard account and deducted off your final balance. This credit is non-redeemable for cash and non-transferable. This is an escorted departure and must meet a minimum number of 15 passengers to travel. Cabin assignment is provided at the time of confirmation/deposit. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

Carousel 9365 4700

»

Joondalup 9308 1600

»

Mandurah 9512 8200

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Morley 6466 2300

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West Perth 9436 4830

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Call 08 6555 2999 | Visit 30-31_travelbrief.indd 30

our website: australissolar.com.au

6/01/15 12:26 PM

Travel brief

News and information for travellers

Save on more than 2000 holiday experiences



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Visit rac.com.au/experienceoz to find more than 2000 holiday experiences across Australia and New Zealand.

You can search easily by region for holiday activities around Perth, as well as Darwin, the Gold Coast, Melbourne, Sydney, Hobart, Adelaide, Auckland, Christchurch, Milford Sound, Queenstown and many more. You’ll find theme parks, local attractions, cruises, skydiving, sightseeing tours, hot-air ballooning and jet boating to name just a few.

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Airport luggage security tips  Using locks and straps and shrink-wrapping your luggage may not prevent theft but they do act as a deterrent as they make breaking into your luggage more time-consuming.

Combination locks are easier to use than key locks, as you don’t have to worry about losing your key.

 A distinctive or colourful suitcase and

easy-to-read luggage tags or labels make finding your luggage in the airport carousel easy and will make it much less likely that someone will mistake your luggage for theirs.

 If you’re travelling to the US, consider

buying a Transport Security Administration (TSA) approved lock. These locks can be opened by a master key so if customs staff need to open your bag the lock can be opened instead of cut. TSA locks are widely available at luggage and travel retailers.

 Make sure you follow size and weight

instructions for carry-on luggage. Airlines are becoming more stringent in enforcing size restrictions. Check carry-on luggage restrictions with each airline, as conditions vary.

 Also note restrictions about what you can and can’t take with you onto an aircraft.

Prohibited objects include anything that could be used as a weapon, or is hazardous or flammable. And on international flights, any liquids or gels must be no larger than 100ml and be carried in a transparent, resealable bag.

For more detailed information about aircraft security visit travelsecure.infrastructure.gov.au.

Search & book online with RAC Travel RAC Travel has made booking your next dream holiday even more convenient with the ability to search and book all in the one place on our website.

You can search the best airfares and thousands of hotel options worldwide, plus package your flight and hotel to save more. Great discounts also apply for RAC members.

Visit rac.com.au/travel to start planning your next trip, plus you can stay up-to-date with the latest holiday deals by subscribing to RAC Travel eNews at rac. com.au/travelenews.

WA tourism operators awarded Winners and medallists for the 2014 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards were announced at a gala dinner event late last year.

The awards recognise and reward the extraordinary tourism experiences that Western Australia has to offer.

The evening saw medallists awarded in 30 categories and culminated with the presentation of the Sir David Brand Award for Tourism, which was awarded to Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa for their outstanding contribution to the Western Australian tourism industry.

The gold medallists will go on to represent WA at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in April 2015.

RAC Travel is proud to sponsor the annual awards as part of our ongoing commitment to tourism in Western Australia.

To see the list of winners visit rac.com.au/tourismawards.

Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa.

February / March 2015 Horizons 31

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Motoring

Story Frances Atkinson

FUTUREPROOFING

OUR TAXI SERVICES

An independent review of the taxi industry has recommended several changes to the structure of the state’s taxi services.

Frances Atkinson looks at the implications for drivers and their customers.

T

alk to enough Western Australians about catching taxis and certain things become clear, experiences usually fall into one of two categories.

There are negative anecdotes about poor driver behaviour, booked cars that arrive late, and drivers who take the ‘long way’. Then there are the positive stories: taxis that turn up quickly after a call goes through, drivers who know their way around the city, get their passengers home safely after a big night out, and go out of their way to be helpful.

The taxi industry has been the focus of several reviews and reforms in the

past decade and the most recent independent review, initiated by RAC and led by Professors Allan Fels AO and David Cousins AM, suggests there’s still plenty more to talk about.

With three acts and regulations totalling around 300 pages, the taxi industry is heavily regulated. These regulations govern aspects of the industry from driver quality, vehicle safety standards, performance monitoring, and more contentiously, the number of taxi plates.

Western Australia’s taxi service remains a critical form of transport. Taxis can provide a much needed service and assist community connectivity, especially for people with disabilities, older and regional

users, and are proven to aid tourism. In 2013, Perth residents and those in outer areas took 13 million taxi rides (WA’s population is a little over 2.5 million) and there are several aspects of the Western Australian industry that puts it ahead of other jurisdictions in Australia (such as vehicle safety standards and the number of cars fitted with security cameras).

User numbers down Yet, user numbers are steadily declining, down from 13.4 million in 2012. But despite this reduction, cab fares have continued to rise, and consumers report being unhappy with the industry.

RAC Executive General Manager Pat

32 Horizons February / March 2015

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6/01/15 12:37 PM

Motoring

The independent review shows 84 per cent of respondents had “at least one negative association with the industry”, and 60 per cent had experienced some sort of taxi related problem in the last twelve months.

Walker says “We initiated the review to better understand the evidence relating to the performance of the taxi industry and to ensure our members continue to have access to flexible, safe and affordable transport options.

“RAC represents more than 800,000 members, many of whom are frequent users of taxis. We want a high quality service that is readily available for users at affordable prices. Having said that, the RAC acknowledges that the demand for traditional taxis has been declining, placing pressures on the industry, in particular taxi drivers”.

The independent review shows 84 per cent of respondents had “at least one

negative association with the industry”, and 60 per cent had experienced some sort of taxi-related problem in the past 12 months. Most also reported a much better experience when they booked small charter vehicles or private taxis instead of regular taxis. Despite this, overall satisfaction is positive, with one in three extremely satisfied with the service received.

In total, Professors Fels and Cousins made 34 recommendations to the government but the ones they believe will be the most contentious concern proposals to change restrictions regarding licences.

The review recommends removing

the ability of licence owners to sub-lease the licences at a considerably increased market value. Of the 2,215 metropolitan licences, just over 50 per cent are leased by the government and around 40 per cent are held by investors who then sub-lease them to Taxi Management Companies. The current lease price is set by the government at $13,390 per annum (with a cap of $18,460 for privately owned licences). Anecdotal evidence given as part of this review suggests that lease costs for privately owned licences frequently exceeds the $18,460 per year cap. This is not surprising, given there is a restriction on the total number of licences that are available.

February / March 2015 Horizons 33

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Motoring

How we use taxis in WA

80%

of people catch a taxi at least once a year.

29%

of those who catch a taxi at least once a year do so at least once a month.

Males and Gen Ys who live close to Perth’s CBD are more likely to use a taxi at least once a month.

Taxi usage is higher on the weekends, particularly in the evenings.

Taxi fares to or from the airport are the predominant week-day journey.

20%

of people catch a taxi less than once a year, or never.

69%

of taxi users use a dispatch service.

Younger people are more likely to wait in a taxi stand or hail a taxi on the street, while older users are much more likely to book in advance.

55%

of users pay cash.

41% use Eftpos.

The online survey of 885 individuals (683 in the Perth metropolitan area and 202 in regional areas) was conducted in August, 2014.

Changes to licenses Further, the review also suggests that the government reduce lease fees to $10,000 per annum, increase the number of licences available at the current rate and remove the requirements for taxis to be affiliated with a taxi dispatch service. If accepted, these recommendations would change the face of the Western Australian taxi industry.

Purpose-built taxis and multi-purpose taxi licence fees are also higher than standard fees. By recommending these fees be set at a level which covers the administrative cost (only) of licencing them, it is hoped this will incentivise more drivers to operate them.

Professors Fels and Cousins, who also led the Victorian taxi review in 2012, believe some of the problems can be traced directly to a licensing system that has been in place in one form or another since 1958.

They say this archaic system causes taxi fares to be higher than they should be and increases fares “...by about 16 per cent, or an average of $3.30 per trip.” It’s a situation Professor Cousins has called “unfair”.

By recommending that lease prices be set below existing privately owned lease prices, Professor Cousins is aware that the value could decrease by between $100,000 to $150,000, but it is this type of sweeping reform he feels is the most important of the review. “It will ensure licence values decline and provide potential for fares to fall, and better, purpose-built taxis to be introduced.

It will allow other restrictive legislation to be removed, including restrictions on small charter vehicles. This will in turn allow sensible regulation of commercial ride sharing (such as Uber) to be introduced.”

Smart services Easily downloaded on smartphones, Uber is an app that allows consumers to hail taxis from a mobile phone – it also keeps track of the driver’s progress and will send an alert when the car has arrived. Professor Cousins describes the emergence of new technology as a “market industry response to poor performance, generally”, and while he is supportive of innovation, he also recommends such services be subjected to registration and insurance rigours.

If the recommendations of the review are accepted as is, Western Australians can

If recommendations of the review are accepted as is, Western Australians can look forward to a more efficient, safer service and less expensive taxi fares...

look forward to a more efficient, safer service and less expensive taxi fares, say its authors.

They say the review could also serve as a potential blueprint, not only for major cities, but regional markets too.

Mobility issues Professor Cousins says he was also especially concerned about the “poor state of services” for customers who use wheelchairs.

The review has found that the taxi despatch service is not as effective for multi-purpose taxis, the type needed for people with disabilities and mobility issues, than those used by other customers.

WA has half the proportion of multi-purpose taxis than Melbourne. Another important finding was that taxi drivers should no longer be exempt from the general requirements relating to the use of child restraints in their vehicles.

The RAC’s Mr Walker is also confident the changes will provide better outcomes for both consumers and the industry. “The purpose of the review was to provide RAC, the government and all interested stakeholders with independent advice about improving their services. How the government plans to act on the review’s findings remains to be seen. Consumers often wonder about fares or the availability of taxis and this review provides some explanations about the way the industry is regulated and the subsequent impacts of this.” ●

34 Horizons February / March 2015

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6/01/15 12:37 PM

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February / March 2015 Horizons 35

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6/01/15 12:37 PM

Motoring

Story Jayne D’Arcy

Dramatic air rescue When Kevin Gale severed his arm in a farming accident, the speedy arrival of the RAC Rescue helicopter helped save his arm from amputation.

K

ojunup local Kevin Gale was working in a paddock with a friend, cutting and splitting wood, when disaster struck. He was using an older model Superaxe wood splitter with a leg control to split a large odd-shaped log. “My arm slipped between the block, I overbalanced, fell backwards and activated the control for the splitter to come down,” recalls Mr Gale of the accident. “My arm was under it. Of course that happened in a matter of seconds,” he says.

“When it dawned on me what had occurred, I screamed.

My friend came over, pulled me into reality and called the ambulance on his mobile.”

Trained as a St John ambulance driver, Mr Gale knew there was a limited time for survival, and a golden period if there was any chance of keeping his arm, which was severed between his right wrist and his forearm. He claims a history of stubbornness, and certainly didn’t let niceties get in the way when it came to fighting for his life. “My friend put the phone on speaker on my chest.

I could hear the conversation, and I interrupted and said: ‘This is an amputation! Please get the helicopter airborne now!’ From my St John Ambulance training I knew that the helicopter was the answer. I said: ‘I’m not going to answer any more questions until you tell me that chopper is

airborne!’ and then the woman on the phone confirmed it was.”

Another St John-trained neighbour soon arrived, as did local ambulances. The RAC Rescue helicopter appeared soon after, landing on the paddock, and Mr Gale was transferred from the ambulance, where he had been stabilised, to the helicopter, which flew him to Royal Perth Hospital.

He remained conscious throughout the journey, which enabled him to convey his wishes, as he explains. “I had a professor of trauma come up and recommend an amputation.

I said ‘no way!’. Then he told me it was up to the plastics team.

The leading surgeon of the plastics team came over and

looked over his shoulder and said ‘oh yeah, we can do that’.”

And they did.

According to Mr Gale, the quick response of the RAC Rescue helicopter was the key to his operation’s success.

“Without that service I would have been outside the eighthour window for the operation.”

The accident happened at 2.30pm and Mr Gale says they started the nine-hour operation at 7.30pm.

“Things fell into place,” says Mr Gale. “The chopper crew were available, they could come straight away; the ambos turned up at the right time, and there was the fact that I was conscious and had not lost much blood. The chopper guys played a big part by getting me there in one piece. I was delivered in the best possible condition for surgery.”

The day after the event and operation, the pilot, David Shaw, popped in especially to see how Mr Gale was. “He walked in,” recalls Mr Gale, “and I was able to wave at him with my right hand and wiggle my fingers! He was amazed!”

The service, which commenced operations in 2003, flew its 4000th mission on 5 November, 2014. RAC Sponsorship Manager Carina Lauder says RAC has proudly supported the service since it’s inception.

“The helicopter flight crew and critical care paramedics do a fantastic job and Mr Gale’s story is one of the hundreds of missions over the last decade in which the RAC Rescue helicopter has been the difference between life, death or permanent injury,” Ms Lauder says. l The RAC Rescue helicopter is funded by the WA State Government with the assistance of RAC sponsorship and is managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

36 Horizons February / March 2015

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6/01/15 12:41 PM

Ultimate Small Group Tours Experience business class on wheels

The beauty of travelling aboard the Ultimate Coach in a small group is that every aspect of your holiday is personal. Travel is at a relaxed pace, with more time to explore at your leisure.

Maximum of only 20 travellers

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*

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Bonus offers available on all other departures dates, enquire for more information. No other special offers or discounts apply. Not valid on special group departures. Special offer applies to new bookings only until 31 March 2015.

Treasures of Turkey

Escorted from Perth

16 day guided holiday departing 12 September 2015

Our comprehensive guided holiday through Turkey with Insight Vacations combines history and beaches, man-made wonders and natural phenomena, as well as a vibrant and welcoming culture. Escorted from Perth, travel at a comfortable pace aboard luxury coach, stay in first class accommodation and enjoy authentic sightseeing and dining experiences all included.

ISTANBUL ANKARA

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Inclusions » Return economy airfares from Perth with Qatar Airways » 14 nights first class accommodation » Travel in style by luxury air-conditioned motorcoach with additional legroom » Sightseeing highlights with transfers throughout » Authentic signature dining experiences including highlight and welcome dinner.

Meals as indicated in itinerary » Additional included highlights, hotel & restaurant tips & airport transfers » Services of an RAC tour escort from Perth plus tour director joining in Istanbul

16 days » Departing 12 September 2015 from

4,790

$

*

per person twin share

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Call 1300 655 179, go to rac.com.au/travel or visit your local RAC Travel Centre

R14022

Price advertised is per person twin share is inclusive of Qatar Airways from Perth and taxes calculated at 30 November and are subject to change. Group booking form must be completed and a deposit of $2000 per person is due at time of booking. An Insight Vacations past passenger discount applies ($125 discount per person) if you have travelled with Insight in the last five years. Tour escort from Perth is subject to minimum numbers (16 passengers), should this number not be met, the tour will still depart with tour director joining in Istanbul. Solo Travellers: For persons travelling alone but wishing to share, we will endeavour to match these passengers with other single passengers of the same gender. If we are unable to do so, a single supplement will be payable ($1,130) at time of final payment. Travel insurance is not included – please ask your travel consultant for a quote. Visa for Turkey is required and not included in price. Gratuities to tour director, coach driver and local guides are not included – for information on tipping procedures please speak to your consultant. Insight Vacations terms and conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

Carousel 9365 4700

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Joondalup 9308 1600

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Mandurah 9512 8200

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Morley 6466 2300

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West Perth 9436 4830 22/12/2014 4:33:48 PM

6/01/15 12:41 PM

Motoring

$

Story Jane Hammond

Road to reform

From buying a car to purchasing petrol, we’re all doing our bit to help pay for our roads.

But as Jane Hammond asks, are we getting our money’s worth?

38 Horizons February February // March March 2015 2015

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Motoring

E

very time you fill up at the petrol station, buy or sell a car, or pay your vehicle registration fees, you are contributing to the cost of building and maintaining the nation’s transport network.

If you live in an outer suburb and drive into the city for work each day, you will be buying more fuel and therefore contributing more money to the Federal Government, via the fuel excise levy, than your inner-city colleagues.

But the other costs, such as stamp duty and registration, customs duty, luxury car tax and GST on the purchase of the vehicle, will be the same, even if you only take your car out of the garage once a month.

At the petrol pump about one‑third of what you pay for fuel goes to the Federal Government.

The federal fuel excise accounts for more than 38c of the cost of every litre of petrol you buy. And on top of that, you also pay GST.

Accelerating costs When you fill up the tank of a small car for $60, close to $20 of that goes to Canberra. But of that $20, just $8.20 comes back across the border to pay for road construction and maintenance in WA. What’s more, the amount of fuel excise collected has jumped and will do so every year under new legislation introduced by the Australian Government that will index fuel excise to the Consumer Price Index.

In addition, motorists also pay taxes and fees such as registration and stamp duty to the state.

The model for charging road users has been criticised for being unsustainable and there is mounting pressure to change the system.

Among the proposals for change is the idea of charging motorists for the actual use they make of the roads. This is known as road pricing

and is based on the idea that you pay for how you individually use the roads, based on the time of day, location, distance driven and even the mass of the vehicle you drive.

The concept, already being discussed at a national level, was included in the recent Henry review of the taxation system and a recent report by the Productivity Commission, and was identified by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in 2011 as a priority for increasing Australia’s productivity.

Proponents tout the main benefit as being better management of the demand on our roads by creating incentives to travel outside peak times.

only returns 41c for spending on transport in WA,” Ms Still says.

“Effectively the difference of about 59c in every dollar goes into consolidated revenue in Canberra and there it is reallocated – possibly to other transport projects in the eastern states or to other projects completely unrelated to transport.

“Few motorists are completely aware of what they are paying for road use and even how they pay.

A recent survey found that seven out of 10 drivers didn’t know,” she says.

“The RAC also supports the Federal Government spending money on public transport, particularly rail, but currently the

Keep revenue neutral Universal road pricing allows road use to be priced across the entire regional and metropolitan road network, as opposed to what the RAC would describe as other less integrated options such as congestion cordon charges (where drivers are charged to enter a certain area, usually the central city), and toll roads.

The RAC supports the notion of road pricing to replace existing revenue raising fees and charges, but only if this is implemented as part of a broader reform of taxation on motorists. This means ensuring that the introduction of any changes are revenue neutral, so that, collectively, motorists are not asked to pay any more than they do.

Senior Manager Policy and Research for the RAC Anne Still says that under a road-pricing system, some existing fees and charges related to vehicle costs, such as stamp duty on new cars and vehicle registration fees, could be abolished in favour of, for example, a per-kilometre cost.

“For every $1 WA motorists pay to the Federal Government in taxes and fees, the Federal Government

The model for charging road users has been criticised for being unsustainable and there is mounting pressure to change the system.

February / March 2015 Horizons 39

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Motoring

Under a road-pricing system, if you drive less you may pay less and this could help manage the network more efficiently. The benefit will be in giving clarity about the cost of using roads and the options to reduce both this and congestion.

Federal Government has a policy that they will only spend the money collected on roads.

“We have been calling for a fairer deal for Western Australians and we would like to see more of their funding coming back [to the state], especially for public transport, so that we can meet the state’s growing infrastructure needs.

“This includes projects like Max Light Rail (MAX) which has the potential to transform Perth’s Central Northern Corridor. Due to the cost, and considering the productivity benefits, large cityshaping projects like MAX need to be supported at a federal level.

“At the moment a significant amount of money is being collected, about $15 billion, and there is a lack of transparency about where it goes.

“The RAC doesn’t support more charges being placed on motorists, because we already think they are paying their fair share.”

Ms Still says congestion is a major issue in Perth and it is estimated that

it will cost the state around $2 billion a year by the end of the decade.

“There will be an extra million cars on the road by that time as well.”

She says more action is needed to solve the problem of congestion and reduce its impact on productivity, the economy and people’s lives “Under a road-pricing system, if you drive less you may pay less and this could help manage the network more efficiently.

The benefit will be in giving clarity about the cost of using roads and the options to reduce both this and congestion.”

More action needed But before a system like this could be introduced, alternatives to driving such as better public transport, cycleways and walkways are needed as well as flexibility in regard to hours of work and possibly more options to work from home, where this is possible.

Ms Still says it’s likely the road system could be better managed through road pricing. The theory is that road pricing

would work in a similar way to energy pricing, with off-peak use encouraged through lower costs. But she said it was important that all monies collected by the government are used for better transport infrastructure and maintenance.

The Federal Government’s Productivity Commission’s report into public Infrastructure, which was published in May 2014, called for a comprehensive overhaul of the system and found that the arrangements for the funding and provision of roads are “ultimately unsustainable.”

The report found that there is no link from road-related revenue to road-related expenditure.

Ms Still says the RAC supported informed public debate on the issue.

“If the government wants the community to consider road pricing, then it’s important to get information out to people about how the current system of charging works and what the proposals are – well in advance of being asked to consider radical changes,” she says. l

40 Horizons February / March 2015

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6/01/15 3:30 PM

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But why did these BLOK® sunglasses make such a big difference? I discovered there are two reasons ....

Firstly:

And most importantly, it’s how the sun’s blue rays affect the retina in your eyes. Your retina is like the film in old cameras, it captures images. And because blue rays are so short in the visible spectrum, they land just in front of your retina, not directly on it, as do other colours.

This causes what scientists refer to as Chromatic Aberration - a chaotic scattering of blue rays that obstruct and dilute all other colours as they enter your eye. They believe this results in reduced visual sharpness, eyestrain and fatigue.

BLOK® lenses filter these blue rays, allowing all colours to focus clearly on your retina. So colours are enhanced and objects appear much sharper and clearer, even on dull days.

And because your eyes are no longer battling blue rays, you’ll notice a soothing relaxation effect - no matter how harsh the glare.

Secondly:

98% of customers love BLOK sunglasses Here's what some of them say . . . ®

“BLOK sunglasses are perfect for all outdoor activities. I cannot recommend them highly enough” Dr. Neil Birchley -Calamvale QLD "Thank you for sending me these wonderful sunglasses. They are the best I have ever had and fit perfectly" George Apel -Hamersley WA “BLOK sunglasses are amazing and especially better for driving. They completely block glare and I hope many people will benefit from them“ Margaret Macaulay – Perth WA "We are so impressed with BLOK sunglasses, we ordered 2 more pairs. What sold us is clarity, robustness and comfort. The blue filtering and polarised lens gives me better clarity than my prescription tinted glasses. BLOK's are now our sunnies of choice." Chris - Cabramatta, NSW

See the difference when driving

Compare for yourself

I’m very proud to be involved with BLOK® sunglasses, so I urge you to order a pair and compare them to your current sunglasses.

When you receive them, notice how colours are far more vivid, and how much clearer and sharper objects appear with BLOK® sunglasses - even through water. Notice the lack of glare and how quickly you stop squinting. Notice how nicely relaxed & refreshed your eyes feel.

And if you don’t see a dramatic difference - exactly as I’ve described here - return them to us within 60 days and I’ll ensure you get a prompt and courteous refund no questions asked. You have no risk.

We live close to the biggest ozone hole on Earth. Blue light and UV dangers exist all year round - even on cloudy days. So whether you're driving or simply enjoying the great outdoors, protect your eyes and at the same time enhance your vision with one of the most advanced pair of sunglasses you can buy. Order today.

1300 550 797

24hrs 7days

Or order securely online at:

www.bloksunglasses.com.au

"BLOK lenses are excellent, but with the new style I really believe you have succeeded in making the excellent even more outstanding" Dr. Jeremy Huyton - Bruce ACT “Having tried various sunglasses I find the anti-glare factor and improved vision with BLOK to be amazing. Even driving on overcast days my vision is still sharp and clear. I highly recommend them” N. Colman – Peakhurst NSW "I play competitive golf and BLOK sunglasses produce crystal clear vision in both bright and dull light. I have no hesitation in recommending them.” Mr S Forbes - Dalby QLD “As a roof tiler out in the sun all day I used to get bad headaches, until I used BLOK's. The clarity is unbelievable and I rate them 9 out of 10. Excellent value! By far the best I have ever purchased" Colin Underwood – Viewbank VIC "When I first saw the BLOK ad I was sceptical, but thought they're well priced so I'll give them a go. I'm very glad I did. While driving BLOK's cut all the glare from the road and windows. My vision is crisper and my eyes no longer get tired.

And when I'm fishing I can literally see through the water" A. Kennedy - Worongary QLD

Special BONUS

Order within 10 days and you will also receive a free pair of magnified reading glasses. Ideal for any fine work or hobby. (Additional readers $19.95ea)

To order by mail please complete and send to: Decara Direct, PO Box 3359, Burleigh Town QLD 4220

YES - Please send me ........

pairs of BLOK® sunglasses and BONUS magnified reading glasses. I understand that I am fully protected by your 60 day Money-Back Guarantee and your ONE Year Warranty, so I have no risk.

1 pr $87 ($79 + $8 p&h) 2 prs $150 (FREE p&h) save $24 3 prs $219 (FREE p&h) save $42 Enclosed is my Cheque or Money Order for $____________ made payable to: DECARA DIRECT Pty Ltd Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Please PRINT clearly

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ P/code: __________________ Please charge my:

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Horizons FEB2015

The lenses are polarised. Polarised lenses have an invisible film which acts like a ‘venetian blind’ blocking all the horizontal glare bouncing off water, cars and other shiny surfaces.They’re especially good for driving as they also eliminate hazardous dashboard reflections on your windscreen.

The remarkable effect of this blue-block and polarised combination got me very excited about the value of this product. Even more so when I found out how well they're made.

BLOK® lenses also block harmful UV rays and are made from anti-scratch CR-39, one of the finest high resolution lens materials in the world. The polarisation and filters are part of the lens itself - not a cheap coating that can rub off later.

The black unisex frame is made from

Hi-Flex TR90 Nylon, making it super strong and durable - yet so light and comfortable you will hardly know you’re wearing sunglasses.

For polarised sunglasses of this quality, without our lens, you could easily pay $200 upwards. But because we don’t sell to shops (no ‘middlemen’), we can supply directly to you for just $79 plus $8 postage. Each pair comes with a Microfibre case and a One Year Warranty.

Please allow 7-14 days delivery Quicker for Metro areas

Card No: _______________/______________/_______________/_______________ Exp: ______ /______

NOTE: Not sold in shops. Category 3 sunglasses. Consumer Product Safety Standards Report No: 12495.2

© 2015 Decara Direct Pty Ltd

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Motoring

Report Stephen Williams

s

Australia’s

Best Cars In the market for a new car?

Why not pick a winner?

Stephen Williams takes a look at the results of Australia’s Best Cars Awards.

I

t started with 220 cars, was whittled down to 45 finalists and now we have Australia’s Best Cars (ABC) – 15 of the best cars available in Australia.

After a year of intensive testing, ABC judge and RAC Manager Vehicles and Fuels Alex Forrest says improvements in the Light Car category left the biggest impression.

“Until recently, light cars were also light on quality and safety but that’s all changed,” says Mr Forrest. “The depth of excellence was laudable.”

The annual awards are designed to provide RAC members with sound data on which to base their car-buying decisions.

“We rate value for money, running costs, depreciation, comfort, ergonomics, safety, ride, handling, build quality and performance,” Mr Forrest says. “We leave no stone unturned.”

There will be good cause for celebration at the related Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda brands, which picked up five awards between them, and at Mercedes-Benz, the winner of three awards, including the coveted Judges’ Choice award.

In a remarkable eight of the 15 categories, the winners repeated their 2013 success despite facing competition from newly released models.

These comprised the Renault Clio, Audi A3 Sportback, Holden Commodore SV6, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Santa Fe, Volkswagen Touareg and Ford Ranger.

A trio of adventurously styled vehicles – the Renault Clio, Citroen C4 Picasso and Nissan Qashqai – were also winners.

The results also show that today’s best sports cars under $100,000 look nothing like the two-seat, low-slung sports cars of old.

These days, most are practical hatches and sedans, such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG.

Category revisions Mr Forrest says this year’s categories were revised to reflect the rapidly growing popularity of tiny hatches and two-wheel drive SUVs. “So for this year we’ve added the Micro Car category. We also changed the People Mover category to Family Wagon so that seven-seat two-wheel-drive SUVs had the chance to compete with people movers.

“It reflects the reality that most people see an SUV seven-seater as a more attractive alternative to the ‘family taxi’ people mover.

“It’s interesting, though, that the best two cars in the Family Wagon category were traditional people movers,” he says.

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Motoring ANCAP = Australasian New Car Assessment Program GVG = Green Vehicle Guide

JUDGE’S CHOICE

Mercedes-Benz C200

Australia’s Best Cars judge and RAC Manager Vehicles and Fuels Alex Forrest says a measure of the C200 is that it won its segment by a staggering 64 points over last year’s winner, the BMW 320i.

“Many winners this year have raised the standard by which other cars in their sector will be judged,” he says. “But none did so anywhere near as much as the C200.”

BEST LIGHT CAR

BEST SMALL CAR OVER $35,000

BEST MEDIUM CAR OVER $50,000

Renault Clio Expression TCe 120

A3 Sportback 1.4 TFSI COD

Mercedes-Benz C200

Drive: 1.2-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 6-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $23,213 Fuel economy: 5.2L/100km, PULP ANCAP: Unrated GVG: ★★★★★

Drive: 1.4-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 7-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $43,594 Fuel economy: 4.7L/100km, PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★★

Drive: 2.0-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 7-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $67,144 Fuel economy: 6.0L/100km, PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★★

The Clio’s stylish, well-rounded package saw it beat the also superb Volkswagen Polo and Honda Jazz. The coupe-look five-door hatch’s assets include an eye-catching exterior, lively yet frugal performance, superb comfort, high spec levels and up-market ambience. The warranty is for five years.

With plenty of zip while using just a nip of fuel, the A3 defeated the BMW 116i and Mercedes A180. Like its esteemed rivals, the A3 is a lot of fun to drive. “The three are crackers for what they are – it’s almost like we’re testing the sports car category,” said one judge. The A3’s cabin is a lovely place to be with its classy feel and high-end features.

The judges were wowed by the C200, found it exhilarating to drive and the “designer-chic” cabin seriously pampering.

It gained one of the highest safety scores of all 220 cars tested this year. Here’s a short list of its high-tech features: nine airbags, safety camera, automatic braking, blind-spot warning, fatigue warning, adjustable dampers, power seats and automated parking.

BEST SMALL CAR UNDER $35,000

BEST MEDIUM CAR UNDER $50,000

BEST LARGE CAR UNDER $70,000

See the Best Medium Car Over $50,000 listing for more details.

Mitsubishi Mirage ES

BEST MICRO CAR

Volkswagen Golf 90TSI Comfortline

Skoda Octavia 103TSI Ambition Plus

Holden VF Commodore SV6

Drive: 1.2-litre, 3 cyl, 5-spd manual Price (indicative drive-away): $14,352 Fuel economy: 4.6L/100km, ULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★★

Drive: 1.4-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 7-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $31,817 Fuel economy: 5.3L/100km, PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★✩

Drive: 1.4-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 7-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $30,021 Fuel economy: 5.2L/100km, PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★✩

Drive: 3.6-litre, 6 cyl, 6-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $42,898 Fuel economy: 9.0L/100km, ULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★

Its pricing and five-star safety rating make the Mirage an ideal first car. Other pluses are low running costs, excellent front-seat comfort, perky performance, a good ride and light-footed agility. Reassuring for buyers on a budget is the five-year warranty. Placegetters the Nissan Micra and Holden Barina Spark have four-star safety ratings yet cost more.

“Put basically, it’s all in the drive, which is almost sports-like,” said the judges of the Golf, which beat the Hyundai i30, Mazda3 and many other terrific cars. It also has a well-cushioned ride, high-quality cabin and miserly fuel use, while the generous specs include a driver fatigue warning system, dual-zone climate control and reversing camera.

Skoda’s pitch is that its cars are as good as the best in their classes but are more affordable.

A case in point, the Octavia provides side airbags for the kids in the back, not just the adults up front. It drives beautifully, is light on fuel consumption and comes with a reversing camera, eight-speaker audio and multicollision avoidance braking, beating the Mazda6 Touring and Toyota Camry Hybrid.

Value for money gave the Commodore SV6 the edge over the $22,200 dearer Hyundai Genesis and $6000 costlier Skoda Superb. It fits three adults comfortably in the back and comes with an electric park brake, auto parking, blind-spot alert and rear cross-traffic alert to avoid dents when reversing.

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!

Motoring

Member offer Members can purchase the Australia’s Best Cars magazine at any of the eight RAC metropolitan and regional Member Service Centres, plus RAC Travel Joondalup, at the special member price of just $5.95.

To find your nearest centre visit rac.com.au/about-us/find-an-rac-branch

Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG

BEST AWD SUV UNDER $45,000

Subaru Forester 2.5i

BEST AWD SUV $65,000-$125,000

Drive: 2.0-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 6sp auto Price (indicative drive-away): $48,122 Fuel economy: 4.5L/100km, diesel ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★★

Drive: 2.0-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 7-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $81,956 Fuel economy: 6.9L/100km, PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★

Drive: 2.5-litre, 4 cyl, CVT auto Price (indicative drive-away): $36,759 Fuel economy: 8.1L/100km, ULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★✩

Drive: 3.0-litre turbo, 6 cyl, 8-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $87,563 Fuel economy: 7.4L/100km, diesel ANCAP: Unrated GVG: ★★★✩

The quirky and compact Picasso is ideal for families with kids aged up to 12 while the roomier runner-up, the Honda Odyssey, would suit a family with teens. Both people movers have smart seating arrangements while the French car is a clear winner in driving dynamics, fuel economy and its six-year warranty. In third place was the Kia Sorento.

With 265kW and 450Nm available from 1500rpm in a practical hatchback, this is the complete modern sports car package, said the judges. The A45 AMG nosed out the $57,194 Volkswagen Golf R and $66,287 Audi S3 Sportback despite its higher price. The Benz scorched the score sheets in performance, handling and braking while also doing very well in safety, fuel economy and seating comfort.

The Forester is equally suited to young families or emptynesters hitting the road. Across the 21 categories assessed, it had nine class-leading scores.

Standouts included its safety, cargo room, driver ergonomics, ride comfort and off-road ability, underpinned by 220mm ground clearance and clever full-time four-wheel drive electronics.

Runners-up were the Mazda’s CX-5 and Kia’s Sportage.

The Volkswagen Touareg comes with a magic mix of luxury, agility, off-road ability and fuel efficiency. The cabin has saloonlike technology, seat comfort, quietness and rear leg-room. For off-roading or towing you’ll find a muscular 550Nm of torque while safety highlights include nine airbags and fatigue detection.

The Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Discovery 4 were the finalists.

BEST SPORTS CAR UNDER $50,000

BEST SMALL 2WD SUV UNDER $35,000

BEST AWD SUV $45,000-$65,000

BEST 4x4 DUAL-CAB UTE

BEST FAMILY WAGON

Citroen Grand C4 Picasso Exclusive

BEST SPORTS CAR $50,000-$100,000

Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Nissan Qashqai ST

Hyundai Santa Fe Highlander

Ford Ranger XL-T

Drive: 2.0-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 6-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $46,719 Fuel economy: 6.2L/100km, 98 PULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★✩

Drive: 2.0-litre turbo, 4 cyl, CVT auto Price (indicative drive-away): $31,855 Fuel economy: 6.9L/100km, ULP ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★★✩

Drive: 2.2-litre turbo, 4 cyl, 6-spd auto Price (indicative drive-away): $57,949 Fuel economy: 7.3L/100km, diesel ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★★

Drive: 3.2-litre turbo, 5 cyl, 6sp auto Price (indicative drive-away): $60,059 Fuel economy: 9.2L/100km, diesel ANCAP: ★★★★★ GVG: ★★✩

Sublime driving flexibility is underpinned by the 350Nm of grunt maintained from 15004400rpm. “It also rides well over all surfaces, making it enjoyable for both commuting and touring,” the judges said. Technology includes an electronic differential lock, engine-braking control, counter steer assist and even ESP-sport mode for track days.

The nimble, economical and practical Qashqai takes the prize over the Ford Ecosport and Nissan Juke, all edgily shaped. The Qashqai also led the field for ride, handling, build quality and cabin fit-out, while space is abundant for its class, with 430 litres of cargo space. It has a surprisingly perky engine that teams with a superb CVT auto. It’s a little ripper.

The Santa Fe is an attractive and practical seven-seater that’s ideally suited for urban family duties and weekend getaways.

Although it’s big, it isn’t cumbersome or intimidating to drive. It has a smooth, powerful and economical engine. The abundant features list includes leather trim, ventilated seats, auto parking, hands-free tailgate, simple third-row seat folding and a five-year warranty.

Not just for tradies, dual-cabs are Australians’ third-favourite vehicle. The Ranger XL-T has best-in-class equipment levels, ride-handling balance, seat comfort and all-round towing ability. Recommended is the auto variant as it complements the diesel’s power characteristics perfectly. A five-star crash rating is an asset at work or family play.

It nudges out the Mazda BT-50 and Volkswagen Amarok.

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Test drive Alex Forrest reviews the latest cars on our roads.

Mazda 2

A

s recently as five years ago, light cars were almost by definition unrefined, unsafe, buzzy and full of nasty hard plastics.

Well, the new Mazda2 is one of those cars set to change that perception. After its styling, the most striking aspect of the new 2 is its refinement.

When cruising, the way the new 2 insulates its occupants from road and engine noise, as well as wind noise, is impressive.

At its launch in October 2014, Mazda said these noise reductions were the result of the car’s completely redesigned body shell, better control of suspension resonance and improved aerodynamics.

This extra noise suppression is noticeable at low speeds and when cruising, but things do get louder under acceleration, largely because the engine has to rev harder than a turbo petrol or diesel in order to make its power.

For example, the Volkswagen Polo reaches its maximum 160Nm of torque at a very low 1,400rpm. Not only does the Mazda2 have less torque, it also has to rev much higher (to 4,000rpm) to get it.

Also, at 4.8L/100km, the automatic Polo just scrapes in under the auto Mazda2’s figure of 4.9L/100km, but the Mazda does have an advantage in its diet – it only needs standard unleaded fuel. The Polo needs premium unleaded, which is approximately 10 cents

Mazda 2 specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

per litre more expensive.

The Mazda2 has a 1.5-litre engine across the range, however the power plant in the entry level Neo has slightly lower outputs than the other variants, with 79kW and 139Nm. Engines in the Maxx and Genki models have 81kW and 141Nm. Mazda’s new six-speed auto is very smooth and ideal for city driving. It’s been tuned to provide a more direct feel than traditional autos, so power

$23,990 drive away 1.5 litre petrol 81kW @ 6,000 rpm 141Nm @ 4,000 rpm 4.9litres/100km 114g/km not rated

delivery feels more like that of a manual. For those who prefer a more involved driving experience, the six-speed manual is a joy to use.

The new 2 has front and side airbags, and curtain airbags for front and rear occupants. It also offers autonomous braking as an option, which is unusual in this segment. At the time of writing, an ANCAP rating for the new Mazda2 had not been released. l

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Test drive The Audi RS6 Avant is more than just one of the world’s fastest station wagons.

It’s also the world’s most practical supercar.

For more car reviews visit rac.com.au/carreviews

Audi RS6 Avant

B

efore everyone decided they needed to be half a metre higher off the road in an SUV, station wagons were the standard tools for hauling the stuff of life.

Stuff like shopping, prams, toys, sports gear, kids and everything they leave behind in the car. Like old mandarin peel, $4.25 in change, that missing green colouring-in pencil and Barbie’s left stiletto.

Well, the Audi RS6 Avant can do all that, but it also hauls in a different way.

It’s one of the world’s most ferociously powerful station wagons, with 412kW and 700Nm available from its twinturbocharged, 4.0-litre V8.

That’s the same amount of power as a Lamborghini

Gallardo LP560-4, and 160Nm more torque.

The RS6 Avant is also among the world’s most expensive station wagons. It’s priced at $247,000 drive away, so it’s certainly not for every budget.

However, this also makes it more than $200,000 cheaper than that Gallardo, which of course forms the basis of an argument about what great value the RS6 Avant is.

Dig a little deeper though, and the RS6 Avant also has some other astonishing numbers, which are rarely quoted when this car is usually discussed.

Making 412kW and 700Nm come out of a 4.0-litre engined while keeping it smooth and usable is one thing, but in the official ADR fuel consumption

Audi RS6 Avant specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

test, it also uses just 9.8 litres per 100km.

That’s only half a litre more than a Toyota Aurion. Helping the RS6 Avant achieve this is its cylinder on demand system, which temporarily switches off four cylinders when operating under a light load.

Its body shell uses high-tech steel technologies and also comprises approximately 20 percent aluminium, which has helped the car slim down

$247,000 drive away 4.0-litre V8, twin turbo petrol 412kW @ 5,700-6,600rpm 700Nm @ 1750-5500rpm 9.8litres/100km 229g/km not rated

by 100kg compared with its predecessor.

To call this car a station wagon is like calling Michelangelo’s sculpture David a carving. It’s far more than that. Audi actually calls it a sports car but really, it’s a supercar that can carry a family of five and all their gear.

So actually, the Audi RS6 Avant is more than just one of the world’s fastest station wagons.

It’s also the world’s most practical supercar. l February / March 2015 Horizons 47

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Test drive The Colorado has had some significant upgrades.

Most notable is the redesigned Duramax diesel engine, which is up in both power and torque.

Holden Colorado LTZ

T

he Holden Colorado came of age when it achieved a 5-star ANCAP safety rating in July, 2012.

With electronic-stability control, driver and front passenger airbags and full-length curtain airbags standard across the range, this was an excellent result in a vehicle category where safety had been, and still is, patchy.

Since then, the Colorado has had some significant upgrades.

Most notable of these is the redesigned Duramax diesel engine, which is up in both power and torque. There’s also now a six-speed manual gearbox, replacing the previous five-speeder.

The four-cylinder, 2.8-litre turbo-diesel powerplant has

147kW (up from 138kW). In vehicles like this, which are likely to be put to work carrying and towing heavy loads and going off road, torque is the allimportant factor.

Torque in the auto versions is a very healthy 500Nm, but for the manuals, that output has been reeled back to 440Nm. The Colorado has an equal class-leading towing capacity of 3,500kg for a braked trailer (750kg unbraked), and given that’s one of the Colorado’s key selling points, there’s a good chance all that torque will be put to use.

Load carrying capacity in the tray back is also good, at 1044kg, though it’s approximately 100kg less than that of the Mazda BT50 and Ford Ranger.

Holden Colorado LTZ specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

The 2.8-litre diesel isn’t the smoothest diesel on the road.

Though it sounds and feels more agricultural compared to other diesels in the twin cab ute category, its fuel efficiency is good given its performance.

By comparison, the 3.2-litre, five-cylinder Ford Ranger 4x4 manual uses 9.4 L/100km, where a similarly specified Colorado sips 8.1L/100km.

Customers looking at twin cab utes generally

$56,520 drive away 2.8 litre turbo diesel 147kW @ 3,600rpm 440Nm @ 2,000rpm 8.1litres/100km 216g/km ★★★★★

aren’t expecting to get interiors with the quality and refinement of a Rolls Royce, but work utes like the Volkswagen Amarok have definitely raised the bar in terms of what to expect.

The Colorado’s interior still has plenty of hard plastics, but for a vehicle that is likely to see some heavy wear and tear in its time, an interior that can be wiped clean with a Chux isn’t all bad. l

48 Horizons February / March 2015

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Test drive

For more car reviews visit rac.com.au/carreviews

Nissan Qashqai TL

T

he Nissan Qashqai was a welcome replacement for the Dualis when it arrived on our shores in July, 2014, but it did bring with it an obvious first problem: how to pronounce the name?

Let’s get that one out of the way for starters. Nissan have said it’s pronounced “cash kai”, so we’ll go with that. You can practise at home if you like.

But underneath the strange name is a very good little SUV. So good in fact, that the twowheel drive version won its category in the 2014 Australia’s Best Cars program.

The Qashqai offers more room inside than the Dualis it replaced, which was really a high-riding small hatchback.

For an SUV this size, it has

good head-and-shoulder room for people more than 185cm tall, but the seats also adjust well for smaller people.

There’s good leg-room for rear seat passengers and a range of handy storage spots.

The car we road tested was a TL, the top of the range with a 1.6-litre diesel engine making 96kW and 320Nmn This comes in at $41,455 drive away.

However, pricing for the Qashqai ST starts at $28,950 which includes a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. The 2.0-litre makes 106kW and 200Nm, and is among the frontrunners in its class for fuel economy.

With the auto, which has a continuously variable transmission (CVT, or Xtronic

Nissan Qashqai TL specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

as Nissan calls it), the ST petrol will cost $31,670. There is plenty of power for what could reasonably be expected from this type of vehicle, and it’s delivered with class-leading refinement.

The CVT in the Qashqai is much better than the CVTs of five years ago.

CVTs are widely known for making the engine drone at high revs, however the Qashqai’s CVT has been tuned to feel

$41,455 drive away 1.6-litre turbo diesel 96kW @ 4,000rpm 320Nm @ 1,750rpm 4.9litres/100km 129g/km ★★★★★

more like a conventional auto.

This means gear changes have been artificially stepped to give a calmer acceleration experience.

There’s also a long list of standard safety features that help it achieve a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. These include six airbags, electronic stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist and LED day-time running lights. l February / March 2015 Horizons 49

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What’s new

The latest news from the motoring world

Looking back to the future

It’s been nearly 30 years since a young Michael J Fox travelled back in time to 1955 in the world’s coolest time machine. Indeed, this year marks the 30th anniversary of the original Back to the Future movie, which was released in July 1985. The most famous prop in the comedic science fiction flick was, of course, the DeLorean-based time machine, which prompted the classic line from the character “Doc” Brown: “The way I see it, if you’re gonna build a time machine into a car, why not do it with some style?”

Volvo finds the gap Imagine a car that can locate collisionfree escape routes if you’re about to run off the road and there’s no room to stop safely. Volvo has pragmatically named the concept the Non-Hit Car and Truck project.

The technology is enabled by sensors providing a 360° view of the vehicle’s surroundings, which can assist drivers with auto-braking and steering with the help of specialised software. Volvo has built the technology into two test vehicles, although it is still at the prototype stage.

The company has said that eventually the technology will be used in driverless cars.

Goddess turns 60 Its name was a play on déesse, the French word for goddess, and when the Citroen DS was launched 60 years ago at the 1955 Paris Motor Show, the motoring world was suitably enchanted.

Some 743 orders were taken in the first 15 minutes of the show opening, and by the end of the first day that total had risen to 12,000. The legendary Citroen DS crossed numerous boundaries of vehicle design and engineering, including the combination of front-wheel drive and hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension at a time when most other cars had rear drive and cart-springs. Today, it continues as a motoring landmark.

Hyundai a safety hit What a difference 20 years can make.

There have been plenty of changes in that time, but in the car world, few companies have changed as much as Hyundai. From a manufacturer of bargain-basement econo-boxes, which were also economical with safety, Hyundai is the maker of Australia’s safest car. The Hyundai Genesis, which was launched in November 2014, became the highest-scoring car ever to be tested in the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, acquiring an overall safety score of 36.88 points out of 37.

50 Horizons February / March 2015

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NISSAN QASHQAI JUDGED BEST 2WD SUV nissanoffers.com.au

Continuing its global success story, the Nissan QASHQAI ST has received one of the highest accolades from industry experts - Australia’s Best Cars 2014 - Best Small 2WD SUV under $35,000. Independently judged on value for money, design, function and performance, the Nissan QASHQAI ST proudly set a new benchmark and stood out as the best of the best in its category.

METRO DEALERS Cannington Clarkson Melville Midland

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1300 185 684 1300 853 904 1300 795 603 1300 543 493

Morley Morley City Nissan Osborne Park Giant Nissan Rockingham Rockingham Nissan

1300 740 610 1300 854 202 1300 491 094 1300 565 188 1300 882 974 1300 782 692

Esperance Geraldton Kalgoorlie Karratha Mandurah Manjimup

1300 482 359 1300 853 913 1300 881 961

Victoria Park Wangara

Duncan Nissan Northside Nissan

1300 732 362 1300 796 166

1300 881 298 1300 493 082 1300 494 652 1300 493 245 1300 491 097 1300 490 842

Merredin Moora Narrogin Northam Port Hedland

Merredin Nissan Moora Nissan Ingrey Nissan Avon Valley Nissan Pilbara Nissan

1300 857 141 1300 978 428 1300 852 492 1300 193 790 1300 881 354

COUNTRY DEALERS Albany Broome Bunbury Busselton Carnarvon Dalwallinu

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Ask the car doctor

Our experts answer your questions

You can be a winner If your question is published you will receive a copy of the new UBD Gregory’s 2015 Perth and Surrounds Street Directory from RAC Travel, which includes new streets and suburbs, petrol station locations and more.

Tips for towing

Q

I own a four-wheel drive with a tow bar.

With regards to the towing capacity, is the brake rating applicable to downhill as well as uphill on the vehicle chassis capacity?

A: The maximum weight

of a trailer able to be towed by your vehicle will be outlined in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. This will specify weights for trailers with brakes and without brakes. These weight limits take into account the effect of the trailer on the vehicle’s overall safety performance and durability. If the trailer is within the vehicle’s specified towing weight limits and the vehicle is properly maintained, your vehicle will be able to handle the loads of a trailer that is within the appropriate limits. Of course, extra care is always required when towing, such as using the appropriate gearing when descending and ascending hills.

Brands vs generics

Q

How do I know when my car coolant needs to be changed? When I sent my car for a service, I was asked whether I wanted a genuine manufacturer’s coolant or a generic type.

Is it going to make a big difference whether I use coolant recommended by the manufacturer or any generic type?

A: It is normal practice for

the interval to be every 24 to 48 months, however your vehicle’s service manual will show the recommended coolant changing interval.

It is important that you use coolant that adheres to the specifications recommended by the manufacturer. In most cases you will be able to use coolant that has the same specifications as the manufacturer-branded coolant, but is generically labelled. In any case, it is also important not to mix two different types of coolant.

Spare parts priorities

Q

Which spare parts or accessories should we carry when travelling on the Great Central Road to Alice Springs? We cannot take a spare of every part so we would like to know the items we should prioritise.

A: While you can’t take

absolutely everything, some of the basic spares for an extended trip would include a comprehensive toolkit including spare fanbelts, fuses, radiator hoses, spanners, screwdrivers, at least two spare wheels and the appropriate jack.

Fully servicing your vehicle before the trip is strongly recommended, especially servicing the cooling system or at least having it checked. However, this is just the beginning. We would also strongly recommend participating in a Four Wheel Driving course at RAC DTEC.

Visit rac.com.au/dtec.

See page 79 for terms and conditions of entry.

Send your questions to: The Car Doctor RAC Horizons GPO Box C140 Perth WA 6839 or email: editor@rac.com.au Please include your full name, address and day-time telephone number with your query. If your question is chosen for publication, please allow up to eight weeks for delivery.

Contact

US If you have a motoring question, don’t forget that RAC members can take advantage of our Motoring Advice Line.

Call 13 17 03 Monday to Friday between 10am and 2pm, to speak to one of our experts.

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Member Lounge People, places, prizes and RAC news

After the fire

dogs Dru and Zeppy out too – they are like our other children.”

The Pagets had finished building their dream home in Stoneville in 2012 and had rented it for 18 months while they were both working in Port Hedland. Naomi was a hospital nurse in Hedland and Caleb an engineer on a major Pilbara resources project.

They finally moved into their new home in December 2013.

On the same day they learnt they had lost everything in the fire, Naomi and Caleb also found out they were expecting their second child – son Cohen who was born in September 2014.

“I am just so thankful that we were fully insured. RAC Insurance was great. I don’t know what we would have done without them,” Naomi says.

Having been an RAC member since buying her first car, Naomi called the claims team and was allocated a claims manager who saw them through the claims process.

“From the very first contact with RAC Insurance, the people we dealt with were polite, helpful, highly professional and sensitive to our circumstances. We had a direct number for our claim manager who always replied

The Perth Hills bushfires of January, 2014 left many families and communities devastated.

One family shares its story with Horizons.

A

s fire raged through the Stoneville-Parkerville area in the Perth Hills on 12 January 2014, the Paget family waited anxiously for news of their home.

“It was 24 hours until we had confirmation that our house had been totally destroyed,” recalls Naomi Paget.

“We had just moved all our new furniture in for Christmas and then were away down south, so we’d actually spent only a few weeks living in the house before the fire hit.”

On the day of the fire, Naomi’s husband Caleb, a fly-in fly-out mine worker, was away in Port Hedland.

It was initially thought the Paget’s home would be safe, however the wind direction shifted and the family quickly found themselves in the direct line of the fire.

“I just had enough time to get out with my daughter Milla, who was then aged two, and drive to safety,” Naomi says.

“It was a harrowing ordeal. But looking back now, I am happy I was there and able to get our two boxer

54 Horizons February / March 2015

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Member Lounge

!

One in six bushfire victims underinsured Following the Kelmscott and Roleystone bushfires in 2011, it was found that more than one in six people did not have enough insurance to replace their property.

“Increasing your cover doesn’t necessarily have to be a costly exercise” RAC Home Claims Manager Glen Walker says.

“Depending on the location and value of your property you could get an extra $50,000 cover from as little as $1 to $2 per week.”

To estimate the value of your home and its contents use RAC’s home and contents insurance calculators at rac.com.au/calculators.

promptly to our emails or phone calls. But more often than not we didn’t have to chase him as he would call us regularly to let us know what was happening.

“While we were trying to rebuild our lives, RAC Insurance helped make this exceptionally stressful time a streamlined process so that we incurred as little anxiety as possible.”

Naomi and her husband Caleb and their young family are now rebuilding on their large Perth Hills bush block. The family’s home is being rebuilt to the same design as the one lost in January 2014 but with some changes in construction materials to provide better protection in the bushfire-prone location.

The Perth Hills bushfires had a devastating effect, destroying 57 homes and causing losses totalling $63 million. l

Caught on camera

B

eing able to produce clear video footage of an intruder entering your home can increase the likelihood of the perpetrator being found and charged.

Monitoring your home with CCTV cameras can also close any gaps in your homesecurity plan, making it an incredibly valuable tool. But to be of real value to you when it’s needed there are several features you should look for when considering a CCTV system: The quality of the image is paramount.

Make sure the camera produces high‑ resolution images. RAC Security offers highdefinition camera solutions. There should

be enough memory to store a large amount of data. Ask about the lens and the angle of view in the installation position.

Consider the night-time lighting in the area of surveillance. RAC Security installs infra-red illuminated cameras that provide up to 10m of illumination in low- or no‑light conditions.

Your CCTV system can also be accessed via a smartphone, tablet or home computer, allowing you to remotely monitor your home, check if the system has detected a disturbance, and contact police if needed. l RAC Security makes high-quality CCTV affordable for WA families. For more information and advice about the right solution for your home, call 1300 132 735 or visit rac.com.au/security.

Visit Albany to remember The National Anzac Centre in Albany was opened as part of last year’s Anzac Albany commemorations.

Upon entering the centre, interactive multimedia displays and audio commentary enable visitors to experience the personal stories of 32 Anzac characters and see the First World War through their eyes. The National Anzac Centre experience concludes with the discovery of each these character’s fate. Visitors can then document their own feelings through an interactive wall which displays their message within the National Anzac Centre, and then the world, via the Internet. l

Save

20% RAC members receive a 20 per cent discount on admission to the National Anzac Centre until 31 December 2015.

For more information visit rac.com.au/anzacalbany.

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Member Lounge

Save the date

Young driver workshops

Keep your Easter holiday on track Carrying out some simple car maintenance checks before you hit the road this Easter break will ensure your holiday stays on track.

Before you leave, check your car’s fluid levels and make sure engine oil and cooling system levels are correct and clean. Check your tyres too; low tread is an even greater danger at higher speeds.

Make sure your tyres are correctly inflated and in good condition, including the spare. During a long trip a dangerous build-up of heat can occur in under-inflated tyres.

If towing a caravan or trailer, check your car’s manual for maximum towing capacity and make

sure you don’t exceed it by loading too much extra weight on the trailer.

To make sure you don’t get caught a long way from home, consider upgrading to a higher level of Roadside Assistance. RAC’s Ultimate Plus Roadside Assistance is well-suited to motorists driving long distances and includes up to 300km round-trip towing in regional areas. It also provides towing for caravans. l To see if your RAC Roadside Assistance is right for you visit rac.com.au/comparison or call 13 17 03.

Car battery quality is vital As vehicles evolve and become more technically advanced, so do car batteries, so ensuring you have the right battery for your car is vital.

Different battery types, whether they are EFB, AGM or Calcium, have a part to play in the efficient running of your vehicle.

Another consideration is the quality and freshness of the car battery. RAC batteries are of the highest standard and we follow a strict stock-rotation policy to ensure all batteries are no more than three months old when fitted to your vehicle. This means the battery is in optimal condition.

When in doubt, RAC is available 24/7 and we carry all types of batteries to suit a wide range of vehicles. l

Keys for Life: A workshop for parents and young people helps young drivers and their parents work together during the learning‑to‑drive process while at the same time accumulating extensive hours of supervised driving practice.

This free workshop covers the graduated driver‑training and licensing system, how to organise practise sessions and what to expect in the practical driving assessment.

Each family receives a free pack providing essential information, checklists and a set of L-plates.

Bookings are essential Call RAC Community Education

9436 4471 or register online at rac.com.au/learntodrive

18 March, 6-7pm RAC Driving Centre, Perth International Airport The workshops are conducted in partnership with School Drug Education and Road Aware (SDERA) and are funded by the Road Trauma Trust Account.

Workshops are presented by RAC in the metropolitan area and SDERA consultants in regional areas. l

56 Horizons February / March 2015

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Member Lounge Download our free Horizons app now to discover where you can save on everything from vehicle maintenance to groceries, entertainment and travel.

Young drivers must keep learning Becoming a licensed driver is just the first part of an important process.

The next step is to become a skilled, safe and responsible driver.

With young people overrepresented in fatal crashes on our roads, the freedom of being in command of a car also comes with a new set of duties and obligations.

During those first critical years on the road, RAC DTEC’s Driver Enhancement trainer Elaine Polise recommends novice drivers focus on continually improving their skills.

Here are her top five tips for young drivers: Keep your hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock position on the steering wheel for greater control.

When changing lanes or merging, always check your interior mirror and side mirrors and also look over your shoulder.

If turning or merging, switch on your indicator early to let other

drivers know your intentions.

Remember – mirror, signal, manoeuvre.

Keep your eye on all traffic ahead of you, not just the car in front, to anticipate changes in traffic flow.

Keep your mobile phone well out of reach so you’re not tempted to use it. Even better, just switch it off while driving.

To keep our young drivers safe, RAC DTEC offers a Driver Enhancement course.

Participants practise defensive driving techniques in their own car to gain an understanding of their own driving capabilities and the capabilities of their vehicle. l To find out more call RAC DTEC on 6189 4646 or visit rac.com.au/ youngdriver. RAC members receive a 10 per cent discount.

WA Aboriginal attractions mapped out In support of RAC’s Reconciliation Action Plan we are proud to have assisted with the production of the new edition of the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) map.

The map includes a map of WA and highlights Aboriginal-tourism experiences around the state, detailing authentic Aboriginal experiences and attractions. The map is free and available at RAC Member Service Centres, via our online shop* and at various visitor centres around WA. We look forward to working more closely with WAITOC in the promotion and awareness of Aboriginal tourism in WA. l Visit rac.com.au/holidayguides to find out more. *Postage applies

Remembering the Wheatbelt’s wartime history Do you have a story or memory of the Wheatbelt during the First and Second World Wars?

Share your stories with us via editor@rac.com.au and we’ll post a selection on the RAC blog.

February / March 2015 Horizons 57

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Benefit every day of the year with your RAC membership

Win

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Entertainment

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

Show your RAC membership card and start saving now As an RAC member you get access to discounts at over a 100 retail and travel partners.

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62 Home & Garden 73 Automotive 75 Shopping & Lifestyle

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we have a discount ” As an RAC member, you now have access to the lowest priced cinema tickets in WA. Adult tickets from just $9.50.

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Win tickets to WICKED

Thanks to the musical WICKED you could win one of 5 double passes to see Broadway’s biggest blockbuster musical WICKED, telling the untold story of the Witches of Oz. Playing at Perth’s Crown Theatre from 3 May 2015.

Visit rac.com.au/movies

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Home & Garden

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RAC members receive a free remote control upgrade with every electric roller screen purchase External Roller Screens are an effective way to give your home the lifestyle and comfort you deserve.

Conveniently operated from anywhere in the home at the touch of a button, Nu Style Roller Screens allow you to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation with complete privacy without sacrificing your view.

Your NuStyle Roller Screens can be functional all year around. Keeping your alfresco warm in winter and even cooler in summer. By fully closing the screen you will benefit from up to 85% light control and shade cover, with an outstanding up to 95% heat control and UV block. It not only drastically reduces the harsh summer heat but also reduces your cooling and energy costs.

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5.35 x 6.2 6.12 x 6.2 6.89 x 6.2 7.66 x 6.2 8.45 x 6.2 9.22 x 6.2

$7180 $7509 $7985 $8487 $8903 $9364

$6180 $6489 $6925 $7397 $7773 $8214

$1000 $1020 $1060 $1090 $1130 $1150

2.23 x 3.05 x 2.1 3.05 x 3.05 x 2.1 3.89 x 3.05 x 2.1 4.56 x 3.05 x 2.1 5.37 x 3.05 x 2.1 6.15 x 3.10 x 2.1

WAS $1275 WAS $1519 WAS $1649 WAS $1906 WAS $2085 WAS $2248

$1228 $1324 $1524 $1713 $1880 $2013

WAS $1429 WAS $1649 WAS $1883 WAS $2158 WAS $2323 WAS $2556

$1240 $1436 $1635 $1824 $1991 $2125

COCKBURN CENTRAL JOONDALUP/CLARKSON

CANNING VALE/SPEARWOOD

PORT KENNEDY/MANDURAH

DISPLAY CENTRES OPEN: Monday-Friday 9am-4pm • Saturday 10am-1pm

www.factorydirectwa.com.au

division of kalmar pty ltd

# RAC 5% Member discount on top of these prices, offer only valid from 1st of February 2015 until 31st March 2015. Valid RAC membership card must be presented at time of purchase to redeem offer. Terms and conditions apply. *Terms and Conditions apply. Free Installation Metro area only. Unless otherwise stipulated, optional extras on all products include but not restricted to, shire plans and specifications, building permit fees, planning approval fees, water corporation fees, delivery, installation, concrete floors, skylights, in-fills, freestanding units, lattice, windows and personal access doors. All colorbond garages and workshops have zinc roof as standard. For full details contact Factory Direct.

February / March 2015 Horizons 67

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Home & Garden

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

Save

$10 on 10L

Save

$5 on 4L

68 Horizons February / March 2015

60-78_mbenefits.indd 68

7/01/15 9:30 AM

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Home & Garden

HOME & LIFESTYLE

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR RAC MEMBERS

RAC members save

500

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February / March 2015 Horizons 69

s

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Home & Garden

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Simply Elegant...

It’s the tiling finishes that make all the difference Our attitude to business is simply good customer service with a strong focus toward achieving ultimate customer satisfaction. Through past experience and having a close relationship with the market place and market trends, we at Prestige Tile Gallery have put together a showroom facility which displays an exciting new range of ceramic, porcelain, vitrified tiles that would be the envy of any builder or home owner.

Tiling is one of the most important finishing elements of a home. Used correctly it creates memorable impressions that last, giving your home or commercial project its own distinctive individuality. Whatever your project, from commercial tiles to residential tiles, from indoor tiles to outdoor tiles, from the bathroom to the bedroom We have a versatile selection of quality tiles suitable for any environment. Choose any style from our extensive range and rely on our team of specialists to guide you through your options.

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70 Horizons February / March 2015

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Home & Garden

OAST TC

RAC Members receive

10%

Carpet, vinyl/ planks & laying

YEARS EST.1994

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CELEBRATING

A

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Show your RAC membership card and start saving

KIN G H

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February / March 2015 Horizons 71

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Home & Garden

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RAC Members save

10% On RRP up to $700

72 Horizons February / March 2015

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Show your RAC membership card and start saving Automotive

Home & Garden

10% off Labour Charges for TraiLer repairs wiTh peeL bearings We provide checks and repairs to all types of trailers including; • replacement of axles • hubs • bearings • couplings • lights • wiring • brakes • springs and whole suspension We also provide the finest Automotive bearings, seals and belts

Call 9583 3525

or email us for more info sales@peelbearings.com.au 2/51 Gordon Rd Mandurah

Buy 2 get $10* off with Roof Renewals Beat the heat this summer • Industrial/Residential • Removes up to 80% of roof heat • Reduced air-conditioning costs • Steel bearings • Removes mould/moisture in winter • 10 year warranty

Call 0439 707 578 or 9398 9861

• roof coatings • skylights • gutters & down pipes

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$185 ZINC $195 COLORBOND

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email roof.renewals@bigpond.com *Conditions apply 3:37 pm Page RAC Half Page Advert.qxp_Eden Roc RAC 90 x 54 30/07/2014

Receive a 10%* discount elite pool coveRs

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RAC Members receive

Visit our showroom

10% Off

elite... Wa’s best-selling pool covers • Stops evaporation • Keeps your pool cleaner • Heats your pool by up to 10°C Call now and do your bit to help save our precious water.

Contact Elite with your pool size and take advantage of the 10% discount (phone/counter quotes only).

parts*

HUGE RANGE OF GARAGE DOOR PARTS

Plus we install, repair and service all makes and models.

Call 9240 2262

9303 9334

(Country call: 1300 136 696)

Unit1/5 Quantum link Wangara WA 6065

www.edenrocgaragedoors.com.au

or visit our factory showroom, at 10 Cressall Road, Balcatta

*Offer available until 31 March 2015. Factory direct sales only. Not valid with any other offer or if Elite has to measure pool.

Save up to 45%* on Selected productS viSion decor

*Show RAC card at time of booking. Discount applies to garage door parts only

SAVE Save$390 $390with with Garden GardenWater WaterBores Bores

Metro-wide retic and bore installation and repairs

receive $150 off installation and a Free 3/4˝ tap and receive $150 off installation and a Free 3/4” tap and pressure release valve worth $240 with all new bores. pressure release valve worth $240 with all new bores.

Call 734300 300oror 0411 Call 1300 1300 734 0411 511511 611611

also alsobore boreand andreticulation reticulationservice serviceand andmaintenance maintenance

We specialise in all interior blinds, outdoor blinds, curtains, padded pelmets, swags and tails, laminate flooring and tinting.

For a Free meaSure and quote pleaSe

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SAVE 10% off CArAVAn ACCESSoriES Ken Peachey caravan rePairs insurance, servicing, modification, accessories and canvas work.

Call (08) 9277 1381 or Email info@kenpeachey.com www.kenpeachey.com 194 campbell street Belmont Wa 6104

Licensed repairer MRB1167

February / March 2015 Horizons 73

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Automotive

Exclusive to RAC Members

fREE Wheel Balance & Rotation.

Get more life out of your tyres with a free balance & rotation at Beaurepaires!

Simply cut out this coupon, call 13 23 81 or your local Beaurepaires store and book in for your fREE balance & rotation. To ensure this offer is only for members, please present this coupon along with your RAC Membership card when you arrive instore.

Call 13 23 81

visit rac.com.au/mb

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$50* off The new Scotchtint Black A car film that won’t fade or bubble - guaranteed *RAC members save $50 off the recommended retail price on full vehicle tinting.

Benefits of Window Film include: • Reduces heat • Reduces glare • Protects upholstery • Fully guaranteed, including film and labour • 99% UV light blocked Main Office: DMS Tinting and Graphics (Osborne Park) 9443 7277 Other Locations: Coolcar (Mobile Service) 0419 938 225 GTS Window Tinting (Northern Suburbs) 9301 0313

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Private Fleet is the preferred car buying service for RAC members. Private Fleet has helped more than 25,000 new car buyers save thousands since 1999.

Volume buying gives Private Fleet the leverage to achieve maximum fleet discount pricing for RAC members, there simply is no cheaper or easier way to buy your next car. The service is FREE for RAC members normally $178. Call Private Fleet to save thousands off your next new car purchase.

Call: 1300 303 181 or visit www.privatefleet.com.au

74 Horizons February / March 2015

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Show your RAC membership card and start saving Automotive

Shopping & Lifestyle

20% OFF * THIS FEBRUARY As an RAC member you’ll get 20% off a wide range of parts, accessories and lubricants. And if some Repco Know How is what you need, our friendly, expert staff are always ready to share their knowledge to help you get the job done.

Repco has over 90 years of motoring Know How supplying parts, accessories and advice to millions of Australian drivers and motoring professionals. So if it’s time to change your oil or give your car a little extra care get into Repco. www.repco.com.au

Don’t forget to show your card & save.

R422496

*Offer valid 1-28 Feb 2015 only. Excludes discounted and catalogue lines, motor vehicle & marine batteries, transmissions, engines & cylinder heads, satellite navigation equipment, gift cards, combo deals and trade purchases. Store stock only.

Premium Quality Electric Bikes Award Winning Folding Bikes The secret’s out @ebikesrus

10% discount* on all services for rac MeMbers With dial an angel dial-an-angel has been providing domestic, childcare and care services to West australians for 29 years. our angel domestic services range from basic home cleaning through to housekeeping, we also offer comprehensive vacate and move in cleans. We have gained a reputation for trust, integrity, and great professional people. call us to discuss your requirements. *1 february – 31 March 2015.

Call 9364 5488 www.dialanangel.com

Electric Bike Specialists

10% on selected bikes for RAC members

CALL: (08) 9430 5500 or John 0448 406 407 www.e-bikesrus.com.au www.facebook.com/ ebikesrusfremantle

Servicing made easy • Fully integrated Wiring Harness & components ELECTRIC BIKES 5 MODELS • Australian distributor for 5 top world class models • Guaranteed backup • • Agents enquires welcome • No petrol, No pollution, No parking, No problems • IP 65 Weatherproofing rating Operating for seven years at: Shop 76, E-Shed, EBIKESRUS Members of the Caravan and Camping Association Victoria Quay, Fremantle WA

February / March 2015 Horizons 75

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Shopping & Lifestyle

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

Breakthrough Savings on Latest Save Technology Hearing Aids $500* On each new hearing aid

Now start at only

1,495

$

ea

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A brand new breakthrough in hearing aid technology is now available in Perth from Hearing Loss Specialists Clinics, and money back the it’s virtually invisible. guarantee** This new hearing aid needs no physical If you’re not completely adjustments – it automatically adjusts satisfied with your to different sounds by using an advanced hearing aid digital computer. It’s so easy to use because it’s fully automatic, so you can relax and enjoy the sounds you want to hear. Don't settle for second best when you can now have the next generation of digital hearing aids without side effects such as overwhelming background noise.

30 Day

This new miniature hearing aid is not suitable for all types of hearing loss.

A Hearing Assesment is Required.

Exclusive Offer for RAC Members: You will be eligible for $500 off the regular price on each hearing aid. $1,000 discount for both ears.

All Clinics 9350 6311 www.hearingloss.net.au *Not valid with any other promotion

**Conditions apply

Main Clinic: 12 Pattie Street, Cannington • Balcatta • Cannington • Rockingham • Wembley

76 Horizons February / March 2015

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Shopping & Lifestyle Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Travel & Holidays

Save10% 10%***at at MiSS Maud Save Maud SwediSh ReStauRant SwediSh ReStauRant Come and enjoy 10% off our irresistible December: Breakfast & dinner dinner festive smörgåsbordSmörgåsbord Mon –– thur thur only only December: Breakfast & festive smörgåsbord Mon January: Breakfast, Lunchto orthursday dinner smörgåsbord smörgåsbord Mon Mon –– thur.

Fri. Your January: Lunch or dinner Breakfast orBreakfast, lunch – Monday entire group receives 10%RaC discount on arrival presentation of your valid RaC Please present your –valid to receive the discount Smörgåsbord Dinner Sunday toCard thursday

RAC Members Receive

card.

Only one payment perone table. areReservations essential. for your entire group. payment table.

Please present your validOnly RaC Card onReservations arrivalper to receive the discount are foressential. entireStReet group. PeRth 97your MuRRaY Only one payment perPeRth table.

97 MuRRay StReet Reservations are essential.

$500 OFF

Call 9325 3900 or email restaurant@missmaud.com.au Call 9325 3900 97 MuRRay StReet PeRth

27 0668 by | (08) 9381 1895

RRP

*excluding 24, 25 & 31 december or restaurant@missmaud.com.au notemail valid with any other offer valid 1 dec 24, 2013 2014 *excluding 25–&2431January december discount on smörgåsbord only not valid with any other offer valid 1 dec 2014 – 24 January 2015 ordiscount email on restaurant@missmaud.com.au smörgåsbord only

Call 9325 3900

*excluding special events. not valid with any other offer. valid 1 Feb - 31 Mar 2015. discount on Smörgåsbord only.

10%* off for all raC MeMbers at Jus burgers

RESORT APARTMENTS

BEACH RESORT

South Perth, Western Australia

Busselton, Western Australia

Get your free $50 Voucher* with Ashmore PAlms holidAy VillAGe M A R I N E R R E S O RT

Geraldton, Western Australia

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Quiet location, Set on 15 acres

Check Prices & Availability Now at -

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Call 1300 303 912

*Conditions Apply

February / March 2015 Horizons 77

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Travel & Holidays

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

Members save I0% on travel insurance R13305

Unlimited overseas medical cover Choose your own excess Money back guarantee Free Global SIM card^

Call 1300 655 179, or go to rac.com.au/travelinsurance Licence No. 9TA1 Limits, exclusions and conditions apply. RAC Travel Services Pty Ltd (ABN 17 009 164 176, ARN. 228577) is an authorised representative of Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited (ABN 73 144 049 230, AFSL 360138) who issues insurance underwritten by Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) PLC, trading as Great Lakes Australia (ARBN 127 740 532, ABN 18 964 580 576, AFSL 318603). This is general advice only. We do not provide any advice based on any consideration to your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please review your own needs and the combined Product Disclosure Statement and Financial Services Guide available from rac.com.au or by phoning 1300 655 179, before deciding to buy this insurance. ^Covermore Global SIM card is eligible when you purchase RAC Comprehensive travel insurance policy. Global SIM is a prepaid service. Network coverage is not available in all areas and rates may change at any time. Terms and conditions are available at covermore.com.au/sim. Services are provided by United Lifestyle Group Networks Pty Ltd (ABN 35 139 763 830). Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited is not the provider of any Global SIM products or services.

Albany

»

Bunbury

»

Carousel

13305 - Travel_Insurance Feb-March Press Ad Horiz.indd 1

»

Geraldton

»

Joondalup

»

Kalgoorlie

» Mandurah

»

Morley

»

West Perth

10/12/2013 9:17:32 AM

78 Horizons February / March 2015

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Terms & conditions For full terms and conditions go to rac.com.au/t&c.

For details of winners from our past promotions, visit rac.com.au/horizonswinners.

RAC Travel Big WA Giveaway page 28 The competition begins on 21 January, 2015, at 9am (Australian Western Standard Time) and ends on 31 March, 2015, at 12pm (Australian Western Standard Time). Entrants must not submit more than one entry. Up to one entrant (winner) may each be awarded only one prize from the following: ‘Broome Escape’ for four (adult) people includes return economy flights from Perth to Broome, six days’ car hire in IWAR (Intermediate Wagon) or above, five nights’ accommodation in Broome; or ‘Ningaloo Dreaming’ for four (adult) people includes return economy flights from Perth to Learmonth, six days’ car hire in IWAR (Intermediate Wagon) or above, three nights’ accommodation in Exmouth and two nights’ accommodation in Coral Bay; or ‘South West Delight’ for four (adult) people includes eight days’ car hire in IWAR (Intermediate Wagon) or above, two nights’ accommodation in Pemberton, two nights’ accommodation in Margaret River and two nights’ accommodation in Dunsborough; or ‘Eastern and Southern Wanderer’ for four (adult) people includes 10 days car hire in IWAR (Intermediate Wagon) or above, one night’s accommodation in Hyden, two nights’ accommodation in Kalgoorlie, two nights’ accommodation in Esperance, two nights’ accommodation in Albany, one night’s accommodation in Mount Barker and one night’s accommodation in Williams. All prizes are self-drive itineraries and winners are subject to adhere to all Thrifty hire care terms and conditions. All properties are star-rated 3.5

stars or above. Accommodation type can be any of the following; Resorts, Hotels, Motels, Chalets, Holiday Units and will be defined upon collection of prize. Accommodation room configuration will be suitable for four adults and can be a combination of two bedroom apartments or two rooms. Prize subject to availability. Blackout periods apply including 15 December, 2015, to 31 January, 2016. Travel must be completed by 31 March, 2016. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winners will be drawn on 31 March, 2015, and notified in writing. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided with details as to the collection of their prize. Each winner must claim its prize on or before 15 April, 2015.

Prizes must be claimed in person unless a winner is otherwise advised. Identification, which includes a photograph, will be required.

Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Car Doctor page 53 Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winner/s) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a 2015 Perth and Surrounds UBD Street Directory, valued at $34.95. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid.

The winner will be notified by email, telephone or letter. When the winner is notified of their

prize they will also be provided with details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in February/March Horizons must claim their prize by 18 March, 2015. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or the RAC cannot make contact with winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Winning Letter page 8 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 $159. 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 with details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in February/ March Horizons must claim their prize by 18 March, 2015. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or the RAC cannot make contact with winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of the Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

DOUBLE GLAZING 25% OFF + FREE FLYSCREENS* ER EV able!

T l S ai

IN

RE av TE plans nt

NO yme pa

BEAT THE HEAT WITH GREENLINE DOUBLE GLAZING! For more information visit www.glhi.com.au

e: info@glhi.com.au ph: 1300 279 198 *Terms and conditions apply - see website for more details

Joondalup 27 Winton Rd Mandurah 3/24 Rouse Rd, Greenfields Midvale 142 Great Eastern Highway

Specialists in Kitchens, Double Glazing, Bathrooms & Laundries February / March 2015 Horizons 79

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VOTED 4TH BEST REGION IN THE WORLD

BY LONELY PLANET Bonus

7 NIGHTS from

$902* per person, twin share

Inside!

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Exclusive RAC Members bonus save up to $102 per couple

7 nights staying with 4 star Innkeepers Hotels around Tasmania 7 days all inclusive automatic car hire National Parks Pass

Offers

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URING

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Valid for travel between 10/02/15 - 30/04/15 – ask for a quote outside these dates

10 NIGHTS from $1065*^ per person, twin share 14 nights staying with Discovery Holiday Parks around Tasmania 14 days all inclusive automatic car hire National Parks Pass Valid for travel between 10/02/15 - 30/04/15 – ask for a quote outside these dates

14 NIGHTS from $1381* per person, twin share 14 nights staying with TasVillas self-contained Apartments around Tasmania 14 days all inclusive automatic car hire National Parks Pass Valid for travel between 10/02/15 - 31/03/15 – ask for a quote outside these dates

*Terms and conditions apply. Please contact RAC Travel for a quote if traveling outside the promoted period. Rates are based on per person, twin share, quoted in Australian Dollars and inclusive of GST. Offers are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time.

Car hire rates include airport surcharges, daily reservation recovery fees and administrative fees, excess reduction and unlimited km’s. #Flight credit is based on flights being booked by TasVacations in conjunction with RAC Travel as part of one of these packages. ^Package price applies to staying a minimum of 2 nights at each Discovery Holiday Park property. Bonus offers are limited to one of each per booking, are not offered in conjunction with any other offer, subject to availability and must be booked by TasVacations as part of this package.

TasVacations ABN 23079978199. Lic. No. TAS029.

South Australia Rail & Sail

Escorted from Perth

with Kangaroo Island

Be consumed by the finest South Australian flavours on this unique holiday. Experience the history, heritage, food and wines for which this region is renowned for, all the while travelling in style by luxury coach, paddlewheeler and aboard one of Australia’s great train journeys.

Inclusions » Airfare from Perth to Adelaide » 5 nights Adelaide » 3 night all-inclusive Murray Princess Discovery Cruise in an outside cabin » 2 day Kangaroo Island tour » 2 night all-inclusive rail journey from Adelaide to Perth on the Indian Pacific in Gold Service » Sightseeing highlights, transfers & meals as indicated in itinerary » Services of an RAC tour escort from Perth

12 days » Departing 18 August 2015 from

4,740

$

*

per person twin share

Pensioners/CSHC holders save $300pp

Call 1300 655 179, go to rac.com.au/travel or visit your local RAC Travel Centre

R14022

Price advertised is per person twin share. Pensioner Concession Card holders and certain Veterans may be entitled to Concession Fares that are partly or fully funded by the Commonwealth or State Governments. To qualify for Concession Fares, an Australian Pensioner Concession Card must be presented at the time of booking; must be valid at the time of travel and must be carried at all times during travel. Not all sectors are included in arrangements for the funding of concessions. Funding for concessions may be withdrawn subsequent to this publication any rates quoted may therefore change, without notice. Group booking form and a deposit of $600 per person is due at time of booking. Tour escort from Perth is subject to minimum 16 passengers, otherwise tour will still depart using local guides in South Australia. Single supplement ($560) applies. Travel insurance is not included. Itinerary is subject to change. Great Southern Rail, Sealink terms and conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

Carousel 9365 4700

»

14022 - Travel_Horizons ADx4.indd 2

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Joondalup 9308 1600

»

Mandurah 9512 8200

»

Morley 6466 2300

»

West Perth 9436 4830 22/12/2014 4:33:47 PM

6/01/15 1:00 PM

G IN ’S RY AT ER SA BR ST ER LE CA IV

CE AN ANN L H

T 70

Hand-crafted Avro Lancaster Bomber sculpture with bronze-tone finish

Expertly hand-painted for precision detail

MEASURES 25cm WIDE 16cm HIGH 15cm DEEP

Includes a fascinating

FREE FACT CARD!

For quickest delivery, order online:

www.bradford.com.au/aircraft Quoting promotion code:

76802

PAY NOTHING NOW

✂

Role: H ea Introd vy bomber u Retired ced: 1942 : Numb 1963 (Canad er a) Crew: built: 7,377 7: aimer, pilot, flight operat enginee or, mid Length r, navig -u : Heigh 69 ft 5 in (21 pper and re ator, bomb t: ar gun .1 ners Power 19 ft 7 in (5.9 8 m) pla 7 engines nt: 4× Roll m) s-Royc , 1,280 e Merli Maxim hp (95 n XX V u 4 12 15,000 m speed: 24 kW) each 0 kn (2 ft 80 mp Guns: (5,600 m) h, 450 8× km/h) guns in 0.303 in (7 at .7 m three tu Bomb rrets, w m) Brownin s: lb (6,3 Maximum n ith variatio g machine 00kg) n o s rm al bo or modifi cation 22,000 lb G mb load of ra s to bo 1 mb bay nd Slam wit 4,000 . h

THE BRADFORD EXCHANGE Please Respond Promptly YES!

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Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms

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Please select

your preferred reservation option:

1.

MAIL no stamp required, to:

or

2.

PHONE: Toll-Free 1300 725 103

or

3.

ONLINE at www.bradford.com.au/aircraft

The Bradford Exchange, Reply Paid 86369 Parramatta NSW 2124 8am-5pm E.S.T Mon – Fri

quoting promotion code: 76802

Please allow up to 10 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance.

Credit criteria may apply.

Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box.

❑

80-81_DPS_ADS.indd 81

6/01/15 1:00 PM

Contact

US

The 1best Campgrounds

Do you have an idea for The 10 best? Tell us what you’d like to see featured by sending your idea to editor@rac.com.au.

Fitzgerald River National Park.

in national parks and reserves

 Baden Powell Lane Poole Reserve is a popular forest camping area just 100km from Perth. Within the reserve the new Baden Powell campground accommodates 36 tent sites and six sites suitable for caravans, campervans and camper trailers. Kayaking is popular on the Murray River, which runs through the reserve, and trails include the wellknown Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail.

 Martins Tank Lake

 Dales Located in scenic Karijini National Park, Dales campground is close to some of the park’s most popular sites including Dales Gorge, Circular Pool and Fortescue Falls. Take walk trails from the campground to view and explore lookout points, pools and gorges. There are 140 sites accommodating rooftop tents, large caravans, camper vans and camper trailers.

 Kurrrajong This large campground is in the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park in WA’s Kimberley region. Explore the park’s spectacular gorges from the many walk trails. Road access is suitable for four-

 Osprey Bay Osprey Bay campground is located in Cape Range National Park on WA’s coral coast. It has been undergoing a major redevelopment and will reopen in April this year. It has around 50 sites suitable for campervans, caravans, camper trailers and tents, which provide an excellent base for exploring Ningaloo Reef. Four-wheel drive vehicles and trailers can also access the beach just north of the site to launch small boats.

 Miners Miners campground is the main campground in Coalseam Conservation Park in the state’s Mid West. The park is best known for its spectacular wildflowers each spring. The site is located on the Irwin River South and is accessible by two-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles and caravans.

 Lucky Bay East of Esperance, this popular campground within Cape Le Grand National Park overlooks one of the region’s most famous beaches. The campground offers a total of 25 sites suitable for tents and regular-size caravans, campervans and camper trailers, with further space available for up to 20 tents.

There is four-wheel drive and trailer access to the beach. The Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail runs through the campground.

 St Mary Inlet St Mary Inlet campground is in the spectacular Fitzgerald River National Park, between Bremer Bay and Hopetoun.

It’s suitable for tents, caravans and campervans and has beach access. In winter, southern right whales can be seen from the cliffs at nearby Point Ann. The park is world renowned for its amazing array of plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

 Sues Bridge Sues Bridge campground is located on the banks of the picturesque Blackwood River within the Blackwood River National Park. The campground is a popular spot for swimming and launching kayaks. There are sites for caravans, camper trailers and tents.

 Big Brook Arboretum Just 3km from the Big Brook Dam near Pemberton, Big Brook Arboretum campground is available for tents and campervans only. Not far away at Big Brook Dam you can fish for trout, swim at the specially created sand beach and explore the many walk-trails including the Bibbulmun Track.

These campgrounds, and many more, are managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

For more information and to check if bookings are necessary please visit parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au.

Image courtesy Tourism Western Australia

The RAC is working with the Department of Parks and Wildlife to encourage our members to enjoy WA’s extraordinary natural areas in a safe and sustainable way.

wheel drive vehicles only, and camper trailers and caravans must be single-axle and highclearance. Purnululu is home to the Bungle Bungle Range.

Located 40km south of Mandurah, Martins Tank Lake campground in Yalgorup National Park has recently undergone a major upgrade and features 30 individual sites suitable for a variety of camping options and four spaces that can accommodate up to four tents each.

It is close to Preston Beach, Lake Clifton’s thrombolites and includes a 6km return walk-trail to a bird hide on the shores of Lake Pollard.

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APT165

EUROPE

Fit For Royalty. Waiting For You. 2016 AT 2015 PRICES* + FLY FREE* + FREE CABIN UPGRADE*

� INCLUDED – Royal Invitation experiences on selected cruises, exclusive to APT:

• Unforgettable day trip aboard the decadent Majestic Imperator Train • Private tour and lavish banquet at Germany’s Namedy Castle • Classical concert featuring Mozart Boys Choir members at Vienna’s City Palace � INCLUDED – All onboard meals and beverages†; tipping; transfers; Wi-Fi; and port charges � INCLUDED – Freedom of Choice Sight Seeing Inclusions and APT’s exclusive Signature Experiences � �

Image courtesy Tourism Western Australia

� �

Magnificent Europe River Cruise 15 Days from $7,795* pp, twin share

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14 Aria or Concerto River Ship Rhine River Cologne Bonn GERMANY Andernach Würzburg Kitzingen EXCLUSIVE! APT’s spacious Twin-Balcony Suites on selected ships^ Rüdesheim Bamberg Miltenberg INCLUDED – All locally-guided sightseeing and entertainment Nuremberg Regensburg Rothenburg Dürnstein Passau SLOVAKIA INCLUDED – All small group shore excursions for an in-depth discovery Vienna Main-Danube Bratislava Canal Linz Melk Danube INCLUDED – Gold and Silver butler service to selected suites^ Salzburg River BUDAPEST

AUSTRIA

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Joondalup 9308 1600

HUNGARY

Visit your local RAC Travel Centre

Mandurah 9512 8200

Morley 6466 2300

West Perth 9436 4830

Licence No. 9TA1

*Conditions apply. Prices are per person (pp) twin share. Prices are correct as at 16 December 2014 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Book by 30 April 2015. Prices based on EUMC15: 04 March 2016 (Cat. E). Price includes port charges. Offers are not combinable, available on new bookings only and subject to availability. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. A limited number of offers are available on set departures. 1st non-refundable deposit of $1,000 pp is due within 7 days.

2nd deposit of $2,000 pp is due by 31 October 2015. Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure. Flights must be booked by APT. Airfares are valid departing MEL/SYD/BNE/PER/ADL. Subject to availability of airline and booking class. FLY FREE: Includes air taxes up to the value of $950 pp, which may vary for each departure point and airline. Flights are in economy class with Singapore Airlines (or an airline of APT’s choosing). 2016 AT 2015 PRICES: Travel in 2016 and pay 2015 prices may be combined with any APT Europe SuperDeal for 2016 departures. All offers are strictly limited and may be withdrawn at anytime ^Selected suites only. †Complimentary beverages exclude French Champagne, premium spirits and selected wines. FREE CABIN UPGRADE: Available on select itineraries, suites and departures. Available in all suite categories for departure in March and October to December 2015/2016.Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd. ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825. APT1656

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Make sure your cover keeps up with your home.

Summer renovations, new furnishings, Christmas pressies‌ It all adds up, and it’s easy to forget to update your insurance. In fact, 8 in 10 Australians are underinsured. At RAC, we have the tools to help you check your level of insurance. So you can be confident that your home and contents are taken care of.

To use our handy calculators please visit rac.com.au/underinsurance

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To update your level of cover call us on 1300 736 143 Check the PDS to see if the policy is right for you. RAC Insurance Pty Limited (ABN 59 094 685 882) issues these products. RAC Head Office: 832 Wellington Street, West Perth, West Australia, 6065. If you do not wish to receive promotional materla from us in the future, please contact us on 13 17 03.

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