Horizons 2015 October/November

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

Your RAC magazine October / November 2015

Hitch up and hit the road

Beating the traffic

Heritage drive

Explore our wide-open spaces by caravan

Why Perth needs light rail to reduce road congestion

The Golden Pipeline: a history of gold and water

Win a businessclass trip to Amsterdam see page 40

From country to coast Explore WA’s parks and reserves with our special member offer

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Vitamins may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.

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Horizons Editor-in-Chief Will Golsby Editor Lucy Siebert Deputy Editor Vanessa Pogorelic Publisher Christine Dixon Design Dallas Budde Luke McManus Advertising Ben Treasure (WA only) tel: 08 9388 7844 ben@mediatonic.com.au Kerri Spillane tel: 03 8520 6444 kerrispillane@hardiegrant.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 hardiegrant.com.au Managing Director Jeff Trounce jefftrounce@hardiegrant.com.au

Inside Caravan of cool '@B>'@B> @ B>'@B>' 29 B>'@B>'@ '@B>'@B> @B>'@B>' B>'@B>'@ Your RAC magazine October / November 2015

Win a businessclass trip to Amsterdam see page 40

The rise of caravanning in Australia.

CAB audited as at March 2015 is 518,527 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: Wyadup Rocks, Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park Photograph by Vanessa Pogorelic

4 Horizons October / November 2015

15

26

35

It’s been a busy year — read up on the RAC’s priorities and achievements over the past 12 months.

Know your U-turns

Driving the Golden Pipeline

Brush up on how — and where — to safely perform a U-turn.

Explore WA’s history of gold and water along this route from Perth to Kalgoorlie.

Annual Report

Inside

43

50

Discover Oman.

Car reviews.

your Horizons 58 Member Lounge Some of the ways we can ensure your vehicle is in tip-top condition, the value of vehicle inspections, how to maintain a healthy car battery, what the NBN means for the monitoring of your alarm and more than 150 travel offers.

61 19

Why our roads need rail.

22

Explore WA’s parks and reserves.

Member Benefits

Regulars

Travel

Move

7 President’s message

17 What’s on

50 Test drive

Introducing two new benefits for our members.

Events around the state.

New cars on the market.

29 Caravan of cool

55 Car news

From vintage vans to family options — caravanning has never been more popular.

The latest news in motoring.

8 Mailbox Members’ letters.

9 Exchange Sharing your views.

12 Snapshot News from the RAC.

43 Arabian dream Discover Oman’s varied landscapes and rich history.

82 The 10 best

49 Travel brief

Wonderful wildflower spots.

News from RAC Travel.

57 Car doctor Your questions answered by our experts.

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 and make the most of your RAC membership rac.com.au/memberbenefits

October / November 2015 Horizons 5

R14582

RAC members save 4c per litre on fuel at Shell Coles Express RAC members can now save on fuel every day at Shell Coles Express across Western Australia. Another way we’re giving back to our members.

Show your RAC membership card in-store and save, or visit rac.com.au/fuel Terms and conditions apply. Not valid in conjunction with a Coles Supermarket 4c fuel discount docket. See rac.com.au/fuel for details.

President’s message

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 Applecross: Shop 2, 14-16 Riseley St, tel: 1300 657 681 Carousel: Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. tel: 9365 4700 Joondalup: Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre (external), Shop E24, 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

Two major benefits launched for members Over 110 years, as RAC has evolved, our focus on being a club has never wavered and providing added value for those who become part of the RAC community is still at the heart of everything we do.

Today, being a member of RAC can mean many things to many people. This is why RAC has continued to evolve the member benefits it provides daily to more than 800,000 Western Australians who have committed to joining our club.

RAC has continued to focus on the suite of existing member benefits to now include two exciting new benefits for our members – one to assist with the daily cost of motoring, the other to encourage our members to see more of our beautiful state, more often.

On 6 August 2015, RAC and Coles Express announced the delivery of a ground-breaking fuel discount offer.

This new offer will give RAC members the opportunity to save 4c per litre on fuel purchases at more than 70 Coles Express outlets in the state, just by showing your RAC membership card.

This will enable RAC members to save money on the posted fuel price at all Coles Express fuel outlets, and the offer will be available every day, across WA. The ability to now show your RAC membership card and save on fuel prices is another way that RAC is giving back to its members.

In addition, as part of our proud tradition of opening up and promoting our state, RAC has partnered with the Department of Parks and Wildlife to offer special benefits in parks and reserves across WA. Members will be able to receive a 50 per cent discount on a range of Parks and Wildlife park passes.

By purchasing a parks pass, RAC members will also contribute to the management of our parks and reserves, with revenue from sales going towards conserving these amazing places and maintaining visitor facilities.

Through our new tourism assets and the relationship with the Department of Parks and Wildlife our message is simple – we want you to get out and enjoy an affordable, quality holiday and all that stunning Western Australia has to offer.

We also encourage you to be safe on the roads. If you are planning a trip, remember to take regular breaks or share the driving with someone, stick to the speed limit and please ensure everyone in the car has their seatbelt on.

As our 110th anniversary year draws to a close we can look back on our club as it was in 1905 and be proud that the spirit of community service, of membership and all its benefits, and of being part of something incredibly unique within WA is still unchanged today. O

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 Corporate Enquiries 9436 4111

Esme Bowen RAC President Pres

Your RAC Council Club Patron Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AO, Governor of Western Australia President Esme Bowen Senior Vice President Tony Evans Vice President Jacqueline 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 October / November 2015 Horizons 7

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

Mailbox

Join the discussion about the RAC and the magazine Terrifying tailgating

Daytime running lights I refer to your article “Does car colour influence crash risk?” (Horizons, August/ September) and note that it is more applicable during daylight hours. Obviously at night we drive with the lights on and so colour is largely irrelevant. This prompts the question – why not drive with our lights on all the time? Recently I travelled the road between Albany and Denmark and spotted an RAC sign suggesting motorists turn on their lights.

And there are others on numerous country roads.

Flashback to the 1970s when Volvo cars had auto-on park lights that were large and very visible. They were ahead of their time. Today, an increasing number of cars have daytime running lights.

When it is raining, overcast or when driving early or late in the day when shadows

cover the road, particularly country roads, those cars with lights on, regardless of colour, stand out. This is not about seeing where you are going but being seen. Why are so many reluctant to “switch on”?

Light up and live.

Ross Hawthorne

Do L-plate instructors need supervision too?

Within a few months I have seen three incidents involving L-plate drivers in private cars not being properly supervised. The errors were: doing a U-turn at traffic lights (even with a sign reminding drivers not to); not indicating left when leaving a roundabout; and parking on the wrong side of the road. I wonder if it is time to require the instructor (usually the parent) to undergo some regulation revision training themselves?

C. Worsley

This is not about seeing where you are going but being seen.

8 Horizons October / November 2015

Highway rescue After 60 years of continuous membership with RAC the full benefit of being a Gold member was realised when towing our caravan on Bruce Highway in Queensland. A rear tyre on our tow vehicle blew.

It’s a notoriously dangerous stretch of highway so I immediately rang RAC. The response was very swift – within 10 minutes a tow truck pulled up in front of us preceded by a text message advising us to either stay in our seats, seat belts on, or how to safely exit. A few minutes later the RACQ Patrol stopped 100 metres behind us and put safety cones out. We were ushered into the dual cab tow truck, then our Ford Ranger was loaded onto the tow truck and the caravan hitched behind it. Our tyre was changed a few kilometres up the highway in a safe place and we were able to purchase a replacement tyre. We were back on the road in just over an hour.

Bill and Joan Grosser

Name supplied

You can be a winner Each issue, the author of the best letter will win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance, which 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 81.

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

Correction In the August/September issue of Horizons on page 37 we incorrectly stated that Gingin is north-east of Bindoon when it is, in fact, north-west of Bindoon.

Image iStockphoto

Our winning letter

It is a Saturday morning and I am driving east on Reid Highway in my small hatchback. I see in my rearview mirror there is a large truck behind me, approaching fast. I am in the left lane and he sits there too, right on my tail. If I have to brake suddenly he will charge straight up my rear. Then he blasts his loud horn. If this was meant to scare the hell out of me it’s worked. I signal left to let him know I am veering left and to try to get this truck off my rear. But he is turning left too. Now the road splits into two lanes and the truck surges past me on the right. I am relieved, but then up ahead the road narrows to one lane and I bear witness to the poor driver ahead of me being tailgated by this same truck.

I know I am not alone in experiencing tailgating. But such aggressive drivers are very scary, especially when you are in a small car. What can be done about these bullies of the road honking their horns, threatening and intimidating other motorists?

Exchange Feedback, opinion and fast facts CONGESTION CRISIS

By

2031…

GOODBYE ‘STICK SHIFT’

Light vehicles sold in Australia with manual transmissions:

Seven of the 10 most congested roads in Australia will be in Perth.

Infrastructure Australia Audit, 2015

RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

Do you ever find service stations simply don’t offer the type of fuel you want for your vehicle?

Yes

41%

40% in 2000 21% in 2014 VFACTS motor vehicle sales figures include passenger cars, SUVs and light commercials

RAC ONLINE POLL

Tell us ...

Should improving public transport in Perth be a key transport infrastructure priority of the federal government?

Take our poll at rac.com.au/exchange

facebook.com/racwa

twitter.com/racwa

Exchange your views by email: editor@rac.com.au October / November 2015 Horizons 9

110 years of RAC Part five – 1988 to 2005 As the century drew to a close and a new one began, RAC looked back on its past as it celebrated 100 years. It also took a step into the future with its first website, introduced a range of new member services and continued to campaign for safer roads and safer drivers in safer cars.

1988

1988

1990

Cars from all over Australia converge on Canberra as part of the Bicentennial Car Rally with RAC and other Australian auto clubs providing roadside assistance escorts.

After lobbying

by RAC, the WA government finally follows the majority of other states and introduces random breath testing.

RAC Insurance introduces Aussie Assist, providing policy holders with an Australia-wide rescue service in case of a vehicle breakdown more than 100km from home.

1992

1991

The club joins with other Australian automobile clubs and some state governments in the New Car Assessment Program, which tests and rates the safety of new vehicles.

RAC introduces the Registered Used Car Yards scheme into a number of prominent used car dealerships in Perth where the majority of cars on sale have passed an RAC inspection.

1994

1995

1995

Monitoring of freeway emergency phones, which is managed by RAC, is extended to Roe, Tonkin, Reid and Leach Highways, and the Great Eastern Highway Bypass.

Lobbying by RAC and other parties brings an end to the petrol roster system with a relaxing of petrol trading hours, ending Sunday queues at roster stations.

RAC establishes an online presence with the launch of its first website.

1999

1998

1996

The club launches the Attractions program, giving members exclusive discounts and benefits at a number of retail partners.

RAC Home Security Services begins operations providing security products, including alarms, security screens and locks.

As part of its sponsorship of the Crime Stoppers program, RAC Community Education officers are engaged to raise awareness of the program in schools and to various community groups.

2001

2003

2004

After significant campaigning from RAC, the federal government reduces the fuel excise and ends automatic indexation.

RAC begins its sponsorship of the RAC Rescue Helicopter.

RAC switches its roadside assistance fleet to BA Falcon utilities – the first six-cylinder vehicle ever used for patrol operations. The decision was made due to considerable advances in six-cylinder vehicle technology.

2002 RAC and the WA Police join forces to establish the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

10 Horizons October / November 2015

2005 The club proudly celebrates its centenary year with a number of commemorative events during the year, including a centenary rally and an RAC Travel centenary tour.

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Snapshot News in brief from the RAC & beyond

Walk Over October

Western Australians are being asked to park the car and pull on their walking shoes for this year’s Walk Over October campaign.

The Heart Foundation, in partnership with RAC and the state government, will be encouraging people to walk more often as a way of reducing the number of short car trips on our roads to help ease congestion and vehicle emissions and also promote the health benefits of regular walking.

During the month-long campaign, a number of community walking events will be held in the state.

You can find new ways of getting to your destination by going on foot all the way or by combining walking with public transport.

Parents will be encouraged to hit the footpaths with their children on Walk to School Day on Wednesday, 21 October.

Community groups can get involved through a number of initiatives, such as hosting a walking event, and workplaces can participate in the corporate online walking challenge from 1–31 October.

To find out more about Walk Over October events, visit walkoveroctober.com.au.

12 Horizons October / November 2015

The added value of a good car warranty Checking the details of a vehicle’s warranty isn’t generally at the top of a car buyer’s checklist but it should certainly be close to it.

Warranty periods and conditions can vary considerably and often the vehicles you may think would provide the most comprehensive warranty cover actually do not.

Some of the most affordable brands offer the most comprehensive warranties, while the warranties of some expensive brands are more restrictive.

Kia is the star player in this regard. The Korean manufacturer offers a seven-year, unlimitedkilometre warranty.

Hyundai is not far behind with a five-year warranty.

Renault also shows considerable confidence

Audi, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz, among others, all offer three-year unlimited kilometre warranties.

in its products by offering five-year, unlimitedkilometre coverage.

Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volvo and Volkswagen offer three-year, unlimitedkilometre warranties.

Longer warranties with unlimited kilometres not only provide extra peace of mind for vehicle owners, but they can also increase the resale value of the car if you sell before the end of the warranty period.

While warranty details can be complex, it’s worth taking the time to understand what you’re covered for and to bear in mind the advantages that longer, unlimited-kilometre warranty cover can offer.

It may not be your top car-buying consideration, but a generous warranty can certainly make your new car a more attractive prospect.

Snapshot Download our free Horizons app

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

Powering up electric bikes New regulations now in force in WA will allow a class of electric bicycle known as electric power-assisted cycles (EPAC) to operate under the legislation covering other electric bikes and power-assisted pedal cycles (PAPC).

EPAC bicycles may operate at up to 250 watts power output, while all other power-assisted pedal cycles are limited to 200 watts. As with other electric bicycles, the higher output EPACs may be ridden on shared paths. A power-assisted pedal cycle is a bicycle with an auxiliary motor that provides assistance to the rider.

Electric bikes can be of assistance to those who may have difficulties pedalling an unpowered bicycle. They can also provide an alternative transport mode for those riding to a workplace where there are no end-of-trip facilities to change clothing and freshen up, with little physical effort required during the journey.

Notice of Annual General Meeting The 110th Annual General Meeting of the Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia (Incorporated) (RAC) will be held at: RAC Head Office 832 Wellington Street West Perth

The Australian Design Rules were changed to align with the European standards for EPAC bicycles and recent changes to WA legislation will now align the laws governing the power output of electric bikes with other Australian states.

This means there are two categories of PAPC recognised in WA: those with a maximum power output of 200 watts as well as the category known as EPACs, which may have a maximum power output of 250 watts.

Exclusive carbon-offset program for members RAC members are being given the chance to participate in a carbon offset program, the first of its kind to be offered by a motoring club in Australia.

The program will allow members to reduce their impact on the environment by measuring, reducing and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions through tree plantings in WA’s Mid West region in partly-degraded and marginal farmland to generate reforestation carbon offsets.

The plantings are within a four-hour drive of Perth and RAC members may view the member designated planting areas.

Plantings will be strategically done to link

12 nature reserves and remnant vegetation sites to create a biodiversity corridor for wildlife. Plantings will be protected by a 100-year carbon rights and carbon covenant.

Planting a variety of species in these degraded areas will not only help members reduce their impact on the environment but will also help create a rich habitat for wildlife. Plus, it offers significant socio-economic benefits for local communities in the Mid West. Members will be offered accredited offsets at a discounted rate of $22.50 per tonne (normally $25 per tonne).

7pm – Tuesday 24 November, 2015.

Business: 1. To declare the 2015 Annual General Meeting open.

2. To table the Notice of Meeting.

3. To receive apologies.

4. To table the minutes of the 2014 Annual General Meeting.

5. To table the report of the President.

6. To table the accounts of the RAC for the year ended 30 June, 2015.

7. To table the report of the Auditor as to the truth and fairness of the balance sheet and revenue and expenditure account for the year ended 30 June, 2015.

8. Declaration of election of four (4) members to the Council by the Returning Officer.

9. Questions.

10. Close of Meeting.

By order of the Council: TT Agnew, RAC Group Chief Executive.

Delivery of election supplement for RAC Council elections RAC’s election supplement will be delivered to voting members.

Please note that in households where there is more than one voting member, there will be a staggered delivery of the election supplement. One election supplement will be provided in this Horizons magazine, with additional copies being sent to the other voting members in the household over a two-week period.

If you are an eligible voting member and have not received a copy of the election supplement by 15 October 2015, you may request a Ballot Paper from the Issuing Officer in person from any RAC Retail Branch, online by using the ‘Contact Us’ link at rac.com.au, by calling 9436 4389 or by emailing councilelections@rac.com.au.

October / November 2015 Horizons 13

Snapshot

The AVBFB was the recipient of the 2015 Community Volunteer of the Year Award, which is sponsored by RAC.

The courage and community spirit of emergency volunteers

RAC would also like to acknowledge and thank the AVBFB, which is often first on the scene for many incidents that are attended by the RAC Rescue helicopter. RAC has sponsored the RAC Rescue helicopter service, which is managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and funded by state government, since 2003.

When emergencies arise in communities across the state, the women and men of the Volunteer Bush Fire Service (VBFS) are able to get help into the area quickly, with more than 26,000 volunteers spread across around 560 local brigades.

The service plays a key role in protecting lives and property in emergency situations, including bushfires and in helping with the invaluable and often overlooked clean-up operations that follow.

The origins of WA’s Bush Fire Service date back to the 1800s.

At that time, governments simply couldn’t afford to provide paid emergency protection and recovery services across such a large and diverse landscape.

Today, the VBFS works with WA’s State Government emergency services organisation, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), to cover an enormous area of the state.

Training is an important part of being a bush-fire service volunteer. DFES’s 14 Horizons October / November 2015

Volunteer Firefighter Training Program consists of more than 44 formal training courses and a number of local governments have developed their own additional training.

As many volunteers live within bushfire-prone areas they have invaluable local knowledge and are able to respond quickly when an emergency arises.

David Gossage, Vice President of the Association of Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades (AVBFB) said the community spirit and unity within each of the brigades is vital.

“When trouble strikes, it requires everyone to co-operate and utilise their individual strengths to make sure the whole team is as efficient and effective as it can be.

“As well as the most obvious jobs involving holding the hoses and driving the trucks, Volunteer Bush Fire Brigades often have dedicated roles for things like radio communications, catering, logistics, administration and equipment maintenance – creating opportunities for people of different ages, interests and even physical ability to get involved.”

Mr Gossage said building community resilience was an important reason why many women and men volunteer with the service.

“In the aftermath of any kind of emergency, the mere sight of the yellow-truck volunteers rolling up their sleeves and helping with the clean-up operation is often an integral part of a community’s collective recovery.”

Annual report left to right: Elephant in the Wheatbelt; RAC President Esme Bowen with RAC Group CEO Terry Agnew; the RAC Electric Highway®.

The RAC’s 2014-15 Annual Report

I

t is our pleasure to report on the activities of RAC over the past 12 months and also the initiatives undertaken in 2015, RAC’s 110-year anniversary.

Giving back to members has been RAC’s strong focus over the past 12 months and a range of benefits and services have continued to be delivered during the 2014/15 financial year where the overall profit after tax for the year ended 30 June 2015 was $19.5 million.

Reflecting on RAC’s 110-year history and its role within Western Australia, RAC was proud to partner with the City of Albany to support the Anzac Centenary commemorations. RAC supported the Anzac Albany volunteer program and also provided access to accommodation during the commemorations.

We reflected on the efforts of our club and its members during the First World War, which included raising funds for the purchase of two field ambulances through the British War office. In WA, members used their own vehicles to transport injured troops from Fremantle Harbour to hospital. Given the RAC’s link to the war effort, it was an honour for us to be part of this important commemoration and milestone.

Through RAC’s focus on giving back, the club continued its support of the state’s only dedicated 24-hour emergency rescue helicopter, RAC Rescue, based in Perth. The service is funded by the state government and managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). RAC Rescue has flown more than 4,000 missions and has helped save hundreds of lives.

This year RAC also reached a significant milestone through our Community Sponsorships program, which has provided more than $1 million in funding to more than 150 community initiatives across the state.

RAC held its largest ever bstreetsmart youth road safety event with more than 6,500 year 10, 11 and 12 students attending. In partnership with WA Police, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, St John Ambulance, Royal Perth Hospital and the Theatrical Response Group, bstreetsmart provided an upfront and at times confronting re-enactment of a vehicle crash scene. The event informs young drivers about the importance of the decisions they make while driving and the impact this could have on their lives, their families and the communities in which they live.

Our Community Education team also delivered the road safety message to more than 35,000 students across WA. As an extension of our commitment to road safety, we launched the RAC Little Legends Club – a free road safety education program for all Western Australian children aged five to 12 years.

Educating children from an early age will ensure that road safety messages have maximum impact and a lasting impression through to their adult life.

This new and exciting RAC initiative is accessible online, enabling metropolitan and rural teachers alike to incorporate it into their curriculum. RAC Little Legends Club also provides benefits, discounts and competitions outlined in a monthly newsletter to parents.

RAC’s strong focus on road safety saw it commit $3 million over five years to help address the poor road safety record in the Wheatbelt.

The first part of the campaign focused on dispelling myths about road safety in the region.

To achieve this, RAC unveiled the Elephant in the Wheatbelt, a life-size African elephant sculpture made out of crashed cars. The elephant is a symbol of the continued silence about the impact of road trauma in the Wheatbelt community,

which has a road fatality rate of 11 times that of the metropolitan area, six times the state rate, and twice the rate of nearby regions. Over the next few months the Elephant will continue to visit communities across the Wheatbelt to promote the road safety message.

During the year RAC continued to focus on ensuring members also have mobility options, including advocating for better public transport, a smarter transport network that squeezes more out of the existing infrastructure, and delivering more cycling options for the 400,000 Western Australians who now cycle at least once every week.

Increasing our focus on sustainable transport options we funded and launched the RAC Electric Highway®, which will connect Perth with Western Australia’s South West through a series of fast charging stations, and will also benefit the region by attracting electric vehicle drivers to destinations along the route, helping to support the region’s tourism industry.

The RAC Electric Highway® builds on an idea proposed by a WA community-based committee. RAC also acknowledges the support of local governments in bringing this idea to fruition. The RAC Electric Highway® is the first in Australia and builds on RAC’s history of opening up the state to new transport options.

Over the past year it has been a pleasure to again work with a committed RAC Council and senior management team. We would also like to acknowledge the commitment of all RAC people, and to thank RAC members for your ongoing support.

RAC is a proud WA membership organisation. As we reflect on the club’s achievements over the past year and also the past 11 decades, we realise that while so much has changed, RAC’s enduring commitment to WA has not wavered for those 110 years and continues to remain strong.

For a copy of the concise annual report visit rac.com.au/annualreport or call 9436 4665.

October / November 2015 Horizons 15

What’s on

D Events around the state in October and November left: Guy Pearce (right), pictured with Darren Middleton, performs at ARTBAR.

The Aussie Backyard Bird Count 19 to 25 October In honour of National Bird Week, thousands of avian enthusiasts will take part in one of Australia’s largest science projects. Birdwatchers across the country will record sightings live on the Aussie Backyard Bird Count app or website to develop a snapshot of Australia’s bird population.

In 2014 a total of 800,000 birds were counted, with the organisers hoping for a million this year.

ARTBAR GOES LIVE! Various dates

Over two months, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is hosting live performances by an exciting array of local and international artists. ARTBAR welcomes acts such as iconic Australian actor turned musician Guy Pearce, local indie pop darlings San Cisco, and acclaimed songstress Clare Bowditch performing with the The Royal Jelly Dixieland Band.

For more information, go to artgallery.wa.gov.au.

For more information, go to aussiebirdcount.org.au.

Kickstarters Gascoyne Dash 22 to 25 October Cars and bikes compete for the title of ‘King of the River’ in this challenging two-day desert race. The ‘Gassy Dash’ shows off the rugged charms of the Australian outback with a 500km cross-country course between the coastal towns of Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction. The going is so notoriously tough that just finishing is considered a victory in itself.

29 October to 7 November This Royal Opera House, Covent Garden production of Faust’s epic tale of good and evil is brought to life over five performances at His Majesty’s Theatre. Featuring the West Australian Opera Chorus and West Australian Symphony Orchestra, the production combines lavish sets with Charles Gounod’s original score.

For more information, go to waopera.asn.au.

Netball Test Series 30 October The Australian Diamonds defend their title as Constellation Cup champions against the New Zealand Silver Ferns over two Test matches at Perth Arena.

The Australian leg immediately follows two Tests in Christchurch and Auckland and will decide who takes home the trophy.

For more information, go to netball.com.au.

Margaret River Gourmet Escape

For more information, go to gasdash.com.

20 to 22 November Over two days, restaurants and cellar doors across the Margaret River region will be throwing open their doors to celebrate the world-class local food and wine scene. With appearances by culinary celebrities and an impressive range of events at beautiful venues, the event will showcase the best Western Australia has to offer.

Fremantle Festival

For more information, go to gourmetescape.com.au.

National Anzac Centre

Heritage Perth

Until end of December In November 1914, 41,000 ANZACs set sail from Albany, bound for the front. The National Anzac Centre in Albany honours the Australians and New Zealanders involved in the First World War with interactive exhibitions and displays. Until 31 December RAC members who present their membership card will receive a 20 per cent discount on admission.

17 to 18 October Perth Heritage Days offer a range of free activities encouraging people to explore the fascinating history of the city. Exhibitions, talks, guided tours and open houses will allow the curious to delve into significant heritage sites across the city. From the original owners of the land through to colonial settlers, the event celebrates the people who have made Perth the city it is today.

23 October to 1 November In 2015 Australia’s longest running community festival celebrates its 110th year.

The festival includes over 100 unique art, music and theatre events at venues around Fremantle, along with annual drawcards such as the Norfolk Lanes Youth Festival, the Street Parade, Wardarnji, Children’s Fiesta, Jazz in the Park and Black Box Theatre.

For more information, go to nationalanzaccentre.com.au.

For more information, go to heritageperth.com.au.

For more information, go to fremantlestory.com.au.

16 Horizons October / November 2015

Gounod’s Faust

The Leukaemia Foundation’s Light the Night 9 October For the first time, Western Australians can join more than 30,000 Australians as they walk together on a single night in cities and towns across the country. This will raise money for families affected by leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

For more information, go to lightthenight.org.au.

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Motoring

Why our maxed-out roads need rail A light rail system is essential to securing Perth’s future economic growth. Our road network is, and will remain, an essential part of the urban fabric of our capital city and state.

But, the reality is the road network can no longer handle the demands being placed on it.

October / November 2015 Horizons 19

Motoring

It is a transformational project that will significantly improve our state’s economic productivity...

I

nfrastructure Australia’s 2015 Infrastructure Audit estimates that road congestion will cost Perth more than $16 billion a year by 2031. The independent body also estimated that in just 15 years, seven of the 10 most congested roads in Australia will be in Perth.

This is why RAC believes the MAX Light Rail Transit project, proposed by the state government, is critical for the future of Perth. It would provide a high-quality mass transit option along corridors that experience heavy traffic congestion and would connect people residing in Perth’s central northern corridor to employment in the city’s central area. In addition, it would release new economic opportunities by enabling much higher density and more viable development in an area that is currently constrained by limited transport options.

It is a transformational project that will significantly improve our state’s economic productivity and as such the federal government should also have a role in its delivery. Perth’s central northern corridor, where MAX is proposed, lacks the public transport services of other sub-regions as it operates without a heavy rail line or rapid transit link.

Despite being committed to the MAX Light Rail project and promoting its benefits, the state government has deferred the project.

20 Horizons October / November 2015

In our 2015 State Budget submission, If MAX went ahead, RAC expects RAC asked the government to reinstate a mode shift would occur and the the $2 billion MAX Light Rail, running perception of the general public would from Mirrabooka to the CBD and on to change to favour light rail because it Victoria Park Transfer Station and provides a better journey experience.

QEII Medical Centre, and to allocate These benefits are highlighted by funding to the light rail connection Queensland’s new light-rail scheme. In from Victoria Park Transfer Station May 2015, it was reported more than five to Curtin University. million commuters had used the Gold While RAC supports alternate systems such as Polytechnic West Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), which would add a new Proposed Mirrabooka dimension to our public light rail transport system, we believe Proposed light Cottonwood Crescent rail station that, for the Central Northern Proposed light Corridor, the transport and rail terminus Morley Drive North land use benefits that would Morley Drive be brought about by a light Dianella rail system greatly outweigh Woodrow Avenue the possible cost savings from substituting it with a Wordsworth Avenue solution that uses buses.

Specifically, the ECU Mount Lawley permanence of light rail would offer more potential Woodville in unlocking development North Perth opportunities and driving up patronage levels. Light Robertson Park rail can also move more Aberdeen Street Perth Arena people than buses and City Square typically, light rail schemes operate at faster speeds.

This results in reduced waiting and journey times Victoria Park QEII and Transfer Station and drives economic benefits Hollywood Hospital for cities.

Motoring

Coast Light Rail since the service began operating on 21 July 2014 – an average of 17,800 commuters each day. This is well over the forecast figure of 16,000 commuters a day, which was expected two years after the service began.

Reports indicate benefits have also extended beyond the light rail line itself, with a 22 per cent increase in the number of public transport trips across the Gold Coast, primarily because light rail has allowed the reorganisation of buses in the region. A second-stage project is being discussed.

It has been suggested that if a Bus Rapid Transit scheme were to be progressed for the proposed corridor in Perth, it would be an interim solution and would be designed to facilitate an upgrade to future light rail. However, a shortterm solution for safeguarding the corridor in this way would likely increase the cost of a BRT solution.

Further, it seems unlikely that once implemented, it would be easy to make an economic case to replace a relatively new and fully operational BRT system with light rail.

In supporting the state government’s proposed light-rail scheme, RAC believes the federal government has a role in funding public transport projects. Australian cities make a critical contribution to

the national GDP. One of the main GDP drivers is the professional services industry, which is underpinned by access to the labour force and reliant on an established and reliable transport system that connects people to jobs and services.

For this reason, in the Australian Automobile Association’s and RAC’s Federal Priorities document, RAC has identified MAX Light Rail as Western Australia’s number one transport priority.

Given the long lead-in and delivery time of major public transport projects, decisions we make now are crucial.

RAC stands by the light rail proposal as the preferred solution for Perth’s central northern corridor and believes this should be prioritised from the outset. O

…light rail would offer more potential in unlocking development opportunities. opposite: A map of the proposed MAX line. below: Rail offers a better passenger experience than buses.

RAC’s top five federal transport priorities Over the past decade, rapid population growth coupled with a resource-driven economy have created enormous change in Western Australia. The challenges we face as a state will require a range of solutions.

Today, population numbers continue to grow, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics forecasting that by 2028 Perth will be the third largest city in Australia, after Sydney and Melbourne.

An increasing number of vehicles, combined with an annual projected growth in freight of five per cent and significant developments in and around the Perth CBD, is adding significant pressure on existing infrastructure and services.

In response, there is an unrivalled opportunity for the federal government to fund and support projects that will ensure the nation and our state can support and drive economic growth.

Connecting people to jobs and services will be vital in ensuring Perth, and Australia, remain productive and liveable.

Safer and more efficient roads are critical, as is the funding of major projects to deliver a comprehensive and reliable public transport system. Additionally, funding for the timely development and implementation of technology solutions in our road network is needed to ensure we extract maximum value from investment that has already been made.

To assist the federal government to identify projects that will deliver maximum returns, RAC calls on the government to support and fund five key infrastructure projects:

1

MAX Light Rail

2

Road network management technologies

3

Major highway grade separations and upgrades

4

Thornlie rail line extension

5

Bunbury Outer Ring Road

October / November 2015 Horizons 21

Travel

Exploring WA’s world-renowned

parks and reserves Western Australia’s beautiful, vast and ancient landscape, with all its breathtaking contrasts, offers a nature-based travel experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

22 Horizons October / November 2015

Travel left:

Fitzgerald River National Park.

!

below (from left):

Images: Lochman Transparencies and Tourism Western Australia

Boranup Forest in LeeuwinNaturaliste National Park; Fitzgerald River National Park.

T

he state’s network of parks and reserves protects areas of beauty, cultural value and biodiversity and are places for people to explore and enjoy. They are the jewels in WA’s crown and are part of our sense of place. From the Pinnacles Desert and Ningaloo Coast in the north to the Leeuwin-Naturaliste coastline and majestic karri forest in the south, there is something for everyone.

The scope of travel experiences in WA’s parks and reserves is immense, ranging from spectacular rugged coastlines, striking coral reefs, magnificent gorges, lush forests and extensive ranges. The state boasts more than 28 million hectares of national and marine parks and reserves. In total, that’s an area bigger than Victoria.

As well as state forest and nature reserves, there are 100 national parks and 13 marine parks, many of which have features of international significance. Three have achieved World Heritage listing, giving them a status equal to some of the world’s most famous natural wonders.

WA’s Department of Parks and Wildlife aims to encourage people to visit, enjoy and appreciate our natural areas, while working to conserve the plants, animals and landscapes that are a drawcard to visitors.

This includes developing and managing camping and caravanning facilities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in an area, while maintaining a presence that is respectful of both its natural and cultural significance.

RAC member parks pass offer RAC and the Department of Parks and Wildlife have formed a partnership to make it easier and more affordable for RAC members to explore these natural wonders.

Together we are offering RAC members a 50 per cent discount on a range of Parks and Wildlife park passes through the RAC online shop. To find out more about discounted Annual All Parks Passes, Concession Annual All Parks Passes and Holiday Passes, visit rac.com.au/parkpasses.

By purchasing a parks pass, you will make a special contribution to the management of our parks and reserves, with revenue from sales contributing towards conserving these amazing places and maintaining visitor facilities.

For more information about WA’s national, regional and marine parks visit parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au.

Download the Parkfinder WA app from the iTunes store for information about more than 100 national parks and many other sites managed by Parks and Wildlife.

Travel

Coral Coast

Karijini National Park in the Pilbara offers spectacular scenery including ancient geological formations.

Visit Fortescue Falls, camp at Dales Gorge or relax in style at Karijini Eco Retreat.

Parks and Wildlife manages 254 campgrounds across the state, providing more than 2,500 camp and caravan sites.

There is also a range of other accommodation providers in parks and reserves if you prefer ‘glamping’ or camping.

New campgrounds The department continues to develop new experiences for visitors to explore and learn more about our parks and reserves.

New campgrounds are now available at Logue Brook and Dryandra Woodland in the South West and at the proposed 24 Horizons October / November 2015

above (from left): Cape Range National Park, known for its rocky gorges and Hamersley Gorge in Karijini National Park.

Perth and surrounds Yanchep National Park, just 45 minutes north of Perth, is an ideal day trip destination. See Australian plants and animals, including kangaroos and koalas in a natural setting and immerse yourself in a range of exciting tours, Aboriginal culture, caves, wildflowers, wetlands and heritage-listed buildings.

South West Golden Outback Cape Le Grand National Park on the South Coast is just a short trip from Esperance and features sweeping heathlands and rugged coastal peaks.

Its white sandy beaches have been voted the best in Australia.

Credo Conservation Park in the Goldfields. Upgrades have been completed at campgrounds in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park in the South West, Cape Range National Park in the Ningaloo World Heritage area, Coalseam Conservation Park in the Midwest, D’Entrecasteaux National Park on the South Coast and in Lane Poole Reserve south-east of Perth.

More facilities planned Plus, new or upgraded campgrounds will soon be open in Cape Le Grand National Park on the South Coast, LeeuwinNaturaliste National Park and

Fitzgerald River National Park on the South Coast has recently undergone a $40 million transformation, with upgraded roads and new facilities including picnic areas, viewing platforms and walk trails.

This park is famous for its variety and abundance of native plants.

Wellington National Park in the South West and Francois Peron National Park in the Shark Bay World Heritage area.

In November, the Gap and Natural Bridge in Torndirrup National Park near Albany will re-open following a $5.75 million upgrade. The park will include world-class lookouts with even better views of the spectacular and dramatic coastline, as well as new interpretive signage, paths and a picnic area. O

Images: (left) Tourism Western Australia and (right) Lochman Transparencies

North West

Cape Range National Park in the Ningaloo World Heritage area is known for its rocky gorges, beachside camping and for the access it provides to the spectacular Ningaloo Reef. Swimming, diving, snorkelling and fishing are popular, as are boat tours to pristine Yardie Creek.

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef offers five-star camping in the heart of the park.

Road rules explained

Making U-turns There’s a time and place to make a U-turn while you’re driving. We explain the rules related to safely and correctly making a U-turn.

Intersections with traffic lights At any intersection with traffic lights, you may only make a U-turn where it is indicated that U-turns are permitted.

26 Horizons October / November 2015

Road rules explained

Intersections without traffic lights At an intersection without traffic lights you may make a U-turn unless it is indicated that U-turns are not permitted.

Overriding Rules In any instance where you are allowed to make a U-turn you must have a clear view of the road and be able to turn safely without interfering with the movement of other traffic. Where there is a bend in the road or you are on a hill and your view is obscured, you must not make a U-turn.

When making a U-turn you must give way to all traffic, cyclists and pedestrians.

Carriageway – one lane each way On a carriageway with only one lane in each direction, you may make a U-turn unless it is indicated that it is not permitted.

Carriageway – two or more lanes each way On a road with two or more lanes in one direction, you are allowed to make a U-turn unless it is indicated that it is not permitted, however you must turn from the lane closest to the centre of the road.

October / November 2015 Horizons 27

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28 Horizons October / November 2015

' @ B

'@B>'@B> Travel

Story Kerry Faulkner

' Caravan @B>'@ B > G of cool @B>'@B>' B>'@B>'@ From cute vintage caravans to apartment sized motorhomes, there’s never been more options for getting out on the road in a ‘van, writes Kerry Faulkner.

ertrude the goat is welcoming us to Banka Banka Station in the remote Northern Territory by clambering into the campervan and refusing to budge.

We’ve been driving all day over the vast tablelands as part of our across-Australia family adventure from Perth to Queensland’s Daintree, three abreast in the front seat of our small campervan.

But our tiredness vanishes as we tumble out of the camper to make way for Gertrude, the family in fits of laughter at this strange welcome to the isolated cattle station campground, as she bleats from inside the van.

October / November 2015 Horizons 29

This is what caravanning is all about – taking your time, seeing the sights and having grand adventures along the way that will become etched in your memory.

In terms of demographics, my family is the average caravanners.

According to WA’s Caravan Industry Association chief executive officer Simon Glossop, it’s a myth that elderly couples or ‘grey nomads’ dominate the caravan holiday market.

In reality, 65 per cent of recreational vehicle registrations nationally (that includes camper trailers, caravans, motorhomes and campervans) are people aged under 65, and 45 per cent are families, he says. And the number of people hitting the road is growing, leaping more than five per cent last year.

Western Australians have wholeheartedly embraced caravanning thanks to a vast and picturesque coast and our camping-friendly climate. Of Australia’s 588,000 recreational vehicles, 88,000 are in WA. Plus, in 2012, the state had the highest number of registrations per 1,000 people nationally and Mandurah was home to the highest number of caravans of any Australian postcode.

Caravanning in Australia: a brief overview

30 Horizons October / November 2015

“We are the only state showing growth in the Caravan and Camping Show,” Mr Glossop says.

“We had a 7 per cent growth this year while other states are seeing double digit drops in attendance.”

The ‘entry level’ camper trailer is attracting the most buyers because of its affordability (under $4,000) and some companies even offer an attractive ‘try-buy’ option, where camping novices can rent a trailer for a holiday and have that cost deducted from the purchase price.

These can be unfolded and they become a tent, with a slide out cooker and a fridge.

There’s even an off-road version for rough roads.

Mr Glossop explains there’s a natural progression of vehicle purchases from camper trailers and campervans, through to caravans and ultimately the motorhome. A caravan can cost anywhere from $40,000 and $140,000, he says.

The Coromal Navigator is a smaller pop-up, pop-out model that expands from just 4m to nearly 6.5m long when erected, but it is not nearly as cute as the Australian-made Gidget Retro Teardrop Camper, named after the perky 1960s Californian beach babe from the television show of the same name. Visualise the classic bubble-shaped caravan from the ‘50s and shrink it to just 1.7m in height (about the height of the average Australian woman)

1929–30

1932

1932–39

While rare, caravans began appearing around Australia pulled by bullocks or horses, usually by the occasional drover or gold prospector.

The teardrop, a totally enclosed two-berth caravan appeared and was a huge commercial success. This look of caravan makes a comeback in the 2000s with the Gidget Retro Teardrop Camper.

Car design undergoes changes, as does Australia’s road network, with most main highways now sealed with bitumen or concrete. This, in turn, prompts changes to caravan design.

Images courtesy; Tourism Western Australia; iStockphoto

Travel

Travel

left: Caravanning is a great way to explore WA’s diverse landscape. right (top to bottom): Some motorhomes offer a luxurious interiors; roughing it along the Gibb River Road in The Kimberley.

and about 3m in length, and you have possibly the world’s most compact caravan. At AUD$24,750 it is admired for its clever, compact design that includes a kitchen with sink and stove at the back and slide-out expansion that almost doubles its length, creating room for a queen-size bed.

At the other end of the caravan scale are models such as the Windsor Phantom, which at just under 10m is a big, sleek upmarket model, with heated towel rack and embossed leather bedhead as standard.

Just as expensive as a decentsized city apartment (up to $600,000) are top-of-the-range motorhomes, with exquisite interiors that include luxuries like wine coolers and washing machines as standard. Many of these are so big that they fit a small car in their hold.

They are a long way from the 19th century canvas-covered wagons used by Australia’s early prospectors and drovers that marked the real start of caravanning in this country.

The familiar rounded caravan shape appeared in the 1920s.

Most were made of bond wood in the backyard and continued to be so until the 1950s when the postwar boom made caravans more affordable. By 1953 there were 60 registered caravan manufacturers in Australia.

Mark Taylor’s love of caravanning began when he was seven, sparked by a trip from Perth to Sydney across the Nullarbor (pre-bitumen) with his father in a van purpose built for the trip.

Nostalgia for those early vans led him to create the Vintage Caravans website in 2002,

In 2012, the state had the highest number of registrations per 1,000 people nationally and Mandurah was home to the highest number of caravans of any Australian postcode.

1939–40

1940s

1950s

1970s

Today

By 1940, World War Two halted caravan production entirely, with materials and labour being difficult to obtain.

State caravan trades and industries associations start to be formed, to allow manufacturers to promote their wares more easily.

Post-war demand for caravans sees local manufacturers emerge, including Viscount, Millard, Coronet, Franklin, Chesney and Truline. These produce fibreglass caravans.

Local production peaked with companies such as Windsor introducing the ‘Pop-top’. In 1975 RVM Australia was formed to improve compliance standards in caravans and motorhomes.

Production of recreation vehicles (RV) grows strongly, with 22,000 built in Australia during 2014.

October / November 2015 Horizons 31

Travel

Towing tips Backing a trailer or caravan can be frustrating, as pushing the steering wheel a little one way pushes the caravan the other way a lot. Before you get out on the road, practice backing into small spaces and ask someone to guide you.

Make sure your mirrors clearly show what’s behind you and remember the joy of caravanning is in taking your time, so consider pulling over to let traffic flow past if the stream of cars behind you has built up.

right: Retro and vintage caravans are proving a hit with women and family caravanners.

… in the last five years vintage vans have become really popular with young women, who love decorating the old vans in the era…

32 Horizons October / November 2015

Heed ‘Dangerous Crosswinds’ signs and use low gear going downhill to give greater speed control. Towing a caravan saps the car’s power, so make allowances when overtaking or try not to overtake unless you really need to.

Images; Getty Images

spearheading the vintage van resurgence nationally. The Vintage Caravan online forum has nearly 4,000 members.

“At the start, a lot of the interest was from older guys who remembered the cars and caravans their fathers and grandfathers had.

“They have a unique shape that’s so different from today’s boxy look – [new vans] don’t have the character of the older vans.

“But in the last five years vintage vans have become really popular with young women, who love decorating the old vans in the era and dress the part.”

When I was a child every summer holiday my parents towed our six-berth Viscount with its moss-green vinyl upholstery to the beach about 30km away and we stayed a month at a time.

The way people take holidays has changed; a month of annual leave is split into a week here or there. Everyone, however, still wants to get away over Christmas and New Year. In WA, the result is that caravan parks at prime family holiday locations such as Busselton and Margaret River are often booked out.

But Simon Glossop says aside from that brief period in a small number of popular places, WA has

a wealth of caravan sites available any time of the year.

He says just like travellers choosing a hotel, caravanners can opt for a five-star or three-star caravan park experience. Some operators target the family market with resort facilities. For example, Busselton’s Mandalay offers an indoor heated pool and milliondollar water slide. Others create a more rustic holiday setting with campfires and singalongs for campers eager to ‘get away from it all’. Since almost everyone travels with a phone or tablet, offering internet access is becoming standard.

For a truly back-to-basics experience travellers can park at campsites in conservation parks for a small fee, many of which

have the added attraction of being in some of the most beautiful and out-of-the-way places in the state. Cape Le Grand, 56 kilometres east of Esperance, is one that is benefitting from the State Government Caravan and Camping Action Plan, which is providing $21m for national park improvements.

On our recent caravanning holidays, we’ve driven our home-away-from-home into cyclonic rain (and quickly out again), become bogged and towed by kind strangers, met hermits and hippies, swum with dolphins and turtles, and become fond of a pesky goat called Gertrude who dropped in for a visit. No other type of holiday can offer all those adventures. O

Santa & his reindeer really “fly”round and round!

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Images; Frances Andrijich, Alamy, courtesy Western Australia Tourism

Travel

LIQUID GOLD The creation of a water pipeline had a far-reaching effect on Western Australia. Mark Irving follows the trail from Perth to Kalgoorlie to uncover its remarkable history.

I

t’s a story of mineral gold and liquid gold: how a water pipeline enabled the precious metal to jump-start Western Australia’s fledgling economy. Just over 560km long, from Perth’s foothills to Kalgoorlie, the pipeline was a lifeline for those

who flocked to the Goldfields seeking their fortunes. A series of gold discoveries in the 1890s saw hordes descend on the semi-arid region and soon the Goldfields accounted for one-third of the state’s total population. But the underground water was too saline

October / November 2015 Horizons 35

Facing page (from top): Discover historic Kalgoorlie; WA’s mining heritage; Mundaring Weir. previous page: The Golden Pipeline spans 560km and provides a variety of experiences for visitors along the way.

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The pipeline keeps you company most of the way along the Great Eastern Highway.

Right: The Superpit open-cut mine, Kalgoorlie.

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Story Mark Irving

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Travel

for human consumption, rainfall inadequate, and both the people and the mining industry needed more water. WA’s engineer-in-chief C.Y. O’Connor devised a plan to dam the Helena River to create the Mundaring Weir and then relay the water via a series of pumping stations.

The pipeline was an unsurpassed feat of engineering.

It became the longest steel pipeline in the world, and the longest water pipeline in the world, spawning pipeline spinoffs to help the expansion of agriculture in the Wheatbelt.

Despite its historical significance, the pipeline remains a relatively undiscovered Western Australian icon, even though it was added to the National Heritage List in 2011.

The National Trust’s Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail is designed to showcase the genius and hard work demanded to build the pipeline with stories of hardship and resilience along the way.

For travellers with a few days to spare and an enthusiasm for history, the trail makes for a fascinating journey.

With plans to take in plenty of side trips and a flexible approach to where I would stay overnight, I opted for a campervan, driving an Apollo two-berth Euro Tourer complete with double bed, cooking and bathroom facilities.

36 Horizons October / November 2015

165km

Day One

Day Two

Perth to Northam 100km

Northam to Merredin 165km

It’s a short drive from Perth to Northam but there’s plenty to do, starting with Mundaring in Perth’s picturesque hills.

The main attraction, is, of course, Mundaring Weir with its imposing dam wall. This is the beginning of the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail and where the water begins its long journey. The weir is also a crossing point for the Bibbulmun Track.

Next to the weir is the restored No. 1 Pumping Station, now open to the public. Inside are three massive boilers and, in an adjacent room, three steam engines that once pumped the water to No. 2 Pumping Station.

The pipeline keeps you company most of the way along the Great Eastern Highway, sometimes above ground on concrete supports, sometimes going underground and out of view, sometimes doubling up.

But the trail also deviates off the highway, taking minor roads to Mt Helena and then along the Elliot and Northam roads to Wooroloo, where you can see a sculpture of the water supply scheme on the reserve.

The tiny town of Meckering is only 35km past Northam, but it’s well worth a stop.

Meckering was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1968 and north of the town you can see evidence of its impact in the devastated Salisbury farmhouse, preserved in ruins as a reminder of the devastation of the earthquake.

A series of small towns synonymous with wheat and sheep farming line the highway including Cunderdin, Tammin and Kellerberrin. Occasional massive wheat silos stand out starkly along the famously flat landscape – one of the reasons building the water pipeline was considered feasible.

In Cunderdin the No. 3 Pumping Station houses an interesting museum with a great deal of information about the trail.

Stop at Kellerberrin to visit the International Art Space Kellerberrin Australia, a contemporary art gallery displaying works from artists from all over the world, and head to the top of Kellerberrin Hill with your camera for a panoramic view of the surrounds.

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340km Images; courtesy Mark Irving, Frances Andrijich, Alamy, courtesy Western Australia Tourism

Day Three Merredin to Kalgoorlie 340km (via rabbit-proof fence) On the outskirts of Merredin is the ruins of a 600-bed army field hospital, relocated on the outskirts of the town from Palestine in 1942.

There is extensive interpretation on the site of the hospital’s history and purpose – erected to be used in the event of an invasion during the Second World War. Further up the road is evidence of the fight against another enemy – the rabbit. By the 1890s, rabbits had reached WA, refuting suggestions they wouldn’t be able to cross the arid Nullarbor. An 1833km-long fence was constructed from Esperance on the south coast to Port Hedland in the Pilbara and when it was completed in 1907 it was the longest unbroken fence in the world.

Don’t miss Westonia – a 9km detour off the highway from Carrabin – it’s a delightful little town with a main street full of old shop facades and a working gold mine with a stunning lookout.

After Westonia the trail follows the highway with a side-trip 5km off the highway to showcase the splendid Karalee Rocks.

One of several places in the region where locals worked with nature — granite rock formations were used to collect water and channel it into a dam, where it was used both for drinking and to fuel steam trains.

Karalee Rocks also features walking trails and another free camping ground – a special spot to relax in peaceful surrounds for a day.

No. 8 Pumping Station is the most intact of all stations. The National Trust’s Tom Perrigo says when the steam-power pump stations were replaced with electric power in the 1970s, workers just downed tools and walked away.

“It is literally a time capsule,” he says. The National Trust has plans to renovate and showcase the station as well as improve signage for the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail, republish the trail guidebook and introduce an app to tell the pipeline’s story and an Aboriginal perspective of its history.

Coolgardie, with its impressive Warden’s Court and historical park and a fascinating little museum, is the final town along the highway before Kalgoorlie,

A home on four wheels Looking for the ultimate freedom on the road?

A motorhome, caravan or campervan gives travellers the flexibility to follow their own path, with sleeping and cooking facilities part of the vehicle and most also offering a shower and toilet on board. Standard diesel automatic drive and a camera and dashboard screen on most vehicles make driving stress-free.

Apollo Motorhome Holidays rents campervans, motorhomes, four-wheel drives and cars. For more information about rates and suggested holiday travel routes, visit apollocamper.com/holiday. RAC members receive a 10 per cent discount on Apollo Motorhome hire. To find out more and to book and receive your member discount visit rac.com.au/apollo.

October / November 2015 Horizons 37

Travel right: Learn about the region’s history at the Hood-Penn Museum.

Fast facts and is well worth a stop.

In Kalgoorlie, walk up to Mount Charlotte where there’s a splendid interpretive centre and garden with photos of the water being released into the reservoir in January 1903.

More than 100 years on, the pipeline continues to supply water to more than 100,000 people and six million sheep in an area two-thirds the size of Tasmania.

From the impressive sight of wheat silos on the horizon to the region’s fascinating war history and iconic rabbitproof fence, following the pipeline is a chance to explore WA’s farming and mining history.

Add to that the ingenuity behind the pipeline that saved the miners and opened up land for farming – little wonder this trail claims a golden heritage. O

Where is it?

The Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail itinerary is 650km long, depending on your route and chosen detours. Two days is the bare minimum for a one-way trip; but with 25 designated sites en route, you may miss many of its attractions. If a two-way trip is possible, save some sites for the return leg and plan a five or six-day journey.Find a Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail itinerary at rac.com.au/greatdrives.

On the road The majority of the trail coincides with the Great Eastern Highway, which provides an excellent driving surface. Short stretches of unsealed road link the

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highway with some sites, and although these roads are generally well maintained and suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles, check with local authorities after periods of rain.

When to go The best time to visit is in spring, when the state’s famous wildflowers are on display, or in the cooler autumn months.

Places to stay Accommodation options range from tourist parks and B&Bs to motels and hotels.

Northam and Merredin offer the widest range of options.

The Merredin Tourist Park and Discovery Holiday Park in Kalgoorlie each have excellent facilities.

Search for accommodation in the region at rac.com.au/ accommodation or get a copy of the AAA Tourist Park Guide or Accommodation Guide, free to members, at any RAC Travel Centre.

Don’t miss Westonia was founded on the back of gold mining a century ago, and the lookout provides stunning views of the Edna May Mine. The highlight is the Hood-Penn Museum.

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Amsterdam Canal

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40 Horizons October / November 2015

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October / November 2015 Horizons 41

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42 Horizons October / November 2015

Travel

Oman’s ancient treasures When it comes to visiting the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is the jewel in the crown, writes Mark Daffey.

Arabian fantasy When it comes to visiting the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is the jewel in the crown, writes Mark Daffey.

October / November 2015 Horizons 43

Travel

Story Mark Daffey

clockwise from above: A dune adventure is a must for every visitor.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat.

Oman’s striking natural beauty, along with its rich, ancient history and breathtaking architectural wonders, make it a must-see destination on the mystical Arabian Peninsula.

44 Horizons October / November 2015

centres throughout the country – but overall, it’s a city that’s been solidly grounded by people who possess a solid work ethic.

Forts and palaces sprout from rocky promontories around Old Muscat and along the bustling waterfront strip of Muttrah Corniche. The sprawling Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an excellent example of Islamic architecture. And the beaches around Al Qurum and Barr Al Jissah are better than you’ll find in many Australian capitals. But while Muscat is a worthy place to visit, it’s what lies outside the city that you’ll really want to see.

The Hajar Mountains Most Omanis live along a narrow coastal strip facing the Gulf of Oman. Tracing that coastline – even sloping down into it at times – is a mountain range that rises to heights of 3,000 metres. These are the Hajar Mountains that formed when the Arabian and Eurasian continental plates collided.

The abandoned old town at Birkat Al-Mawz.

From a distance, the mountains resemble flaky puff pastries, each one carved and shaped by torrential downpours that have left yawning chasms and gaping caves in their wake. Known locally as wadis, these gorges conceal tranquil rock pools that are perfect cool-me-downs when the sun’s at its zenith. At Wadi Bani Awf, it’s possible to follow a bouncy fourwheel drive track from one side of the mountains to the other The grandest of them all is Wadi Nakhur, otherwise known as the ‘Grand Canyon’ of Oman, where a gravel road climbs past abandoned villages until it reaches the canyon rim just below the summit of Jebel Shams – Oman’s

The beaches around Al Qurum … are better than you’ll find in many Australian capitals.

Images on this page: Mark Daffey

A

s with Dubai, the government of Oman realised long ago that its diminishing reserves of natural resources wouldn’t prop up the economy forever. This prompted a concerted effort to diversify, with tourism leading the charge. And today, with Oman ranking in the upper echelons of global wealth, driven largely by oil and gas riches and a progressive leader, the country’s tourism offerings are first class.

Muscat is the usual starting point for tourists, either via Muscat International Airport or on one of the growing number of cruise ships docking in its harbour. The capital is a study in understatement compared with its regional peers. It does possess the odd touch of bling, particularly inside the gold and jewellery bazaar at Muttrah’s centuries-old covered souk – one of many interesting market

Village woman at Nizwa’s Friday livestock souq.

Travel

highest peak. Active souls can hike to the top following a signposted route then camp on the summit plateau. Others may prefer climbing up Jebel Akhdar, the ‘Green Mountain’ where villagers produce rose water in a timehonoured tradition and a handful of luxury hotels are perched on the edge of Wadi Muaydin.

The mountains act like sponges and their limestone core filters the rains. In villages and towns everywhere, this water is pumped to the surface and funnelled from springs to wherever it’s needed by way of ingeniously simple irrigation channels known as falaj. Some of these falaj are 2,000 years old and World Heritage listed, each of them fuelling barren soils and forming the basis for survival of what essentially amounts to a nation fighting against the relentless desert march. Two excellent examples of how the region’s most precious commodity can deliver life to the desert are in the shady villages of Misfat Al Abriyeen or Birkat Al-Mawz – both oases in an otherwise harsh environment.

Portuguese influence Oman has always been a tribal region, and each of these tribes built forts and towers to protect themselves from each other. The Portuguese also added to and enhanced some of the existing structures during their occupation of the country in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Evidence of their presence can still be seen through the 500 or so watchtowers scattered across the country’s hilltops. Those that are square can accurately be said to pre-date Portuguese occupation, while round ones were built after their arrival. The foundations of many of the larger forts – Jabrin, Bahla, Rustaq, Nakhal, Nizwa and Khasab – are open to the public

The dunes are spectacular at any time of the day, but their contours really take shape when the sun sits low in the sky...

and can be traced back to before the Portuguese arrived, though much of their construction was done after they were forced out for good by Sultan bin Saif Al-Ya’arubi in 1650.

The Wahiba Sands is one area of Oman that the Portuguese never bothered to penetrate; they were more interested in preserving their lucrative seafaring trade routes. This is what the Omanis think of as desert, and the sight of endless sand dunes – some of them 200 metres high – fit the mould perfectly. Nomadic Bedouin tribesmen still prefer to live here than to move into town.

The dunes are spectacular at any time of the day, but their contours really take shape when the sun sits low in the sky, just above the horizon. It’s too much to expect tourists to get out of bed so they can see the sunrise here, but almost everyone watches it set from the crest of a dune. And it’s during times like those when you appreciate how beautiful Oman really is.

Mark Daffey travelled to Oman courtesy of the Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Tourism.

above: Oman offers stunning scenary and facinating history.

Tour

Fast facts Where is it?

Oman wraps around the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, sharing borders with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

How to get there Flights from Perth to Muscat operate daily via Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha on Etihad, Emirates and Qatar Airways respectively.

Likewise, Oman Air services connect with direct flights from Perth to Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

Return economy fares start from $1,495. Expect to arrive in Muscat at least 15 hours after departure.

Cruise Muscat is an increasingly popular stopover for cruise lines. Oceania, Holland America, Seabourn, Azamara, MSC, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Silversea, Costa, Cunard, Voyages To Antiquity, and Celebrity Cruises all have itineraries that include Muscat.

Dunes Adventures and Tours (dunesadventures. com) can arrange tours and hotel bookings in Oman. For information about Oman, visit tourismoman.com.au.

Languages Arabic, but English is widely spoken.

Etiquette Oman is a conservative Muslim country and visitors should dress accordingly. Men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and thighs past the knees.

Cover up appropriately when swimming in wadi rock pools.

When to go The tourist season lasts from late September until mid-May. Temperatures outside this time can be oppressively hot, except in the Hajar Mountains or the Dhofar region bordering Yemen.

Don’t miss Spending a night amongst the towering dunes of the Wahiba Sands, where accommodation ranges from luxury desert camps to simple barasti shelters.

October / November 2015 Horizons 45

Travel

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Exploring the region further?

Don’t miss these top experiences in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Qatar.

For more information on Arabian Peninsula holidays, contact RAC Travel 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/travel.

Further afield Abu Dhabi:

Dubai:

Qatar:

• Marvel at the sheer dimensions of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – large enough to house 41,000 worshippers in one sitting.

• Shwoosh down the indoor ski slope at Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates shopping centre.

• See how Qataris lived in earlier days at the Doha Fort.

• Stroll along the Corniche, the 6km-long promenade.

• Ride the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, at Ferrari World, the first theme park dedicated to the iconic Italian sports car.

• Cool down at Yas Waterworld, the world’s biggest waterpark.

• Cycle the Formula One track on Yas Island on a Tuesday.

46 Horizons October / November 2015

• Take in the views from At The Top, the 124th-floor observation deck at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

• Step back in time on an abra cruise across Dubai Creek.

• Haggle for gold at the Gold Souk in Deira.

• Come face to face with sharks inside the 10-million-litre water tank at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, in the Dubai Mall.

• Appreciate the world’s finest collection of Persian rugs and Turkish mosaics at the Museum of Islamic Art. • Enjoy a night of jazz at the Lincoln Center Doha.

• Learn about the Arabian oryx at the Al Maha Sanctuary.

• Enjoy the Doha nightime skyline on a dhow cruise from The Pearl, a collection of man-made islands, to Doha Corniche. O

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Valid for new bookings only. Valid until sold out or withdrawn. Capacity controlled. Conditions apply.

48 Horizons October / November 2015

2nd person

Interior

Travel brief

News and information for travellers

Wild Antarctica with The West Australian’s Stephen Scourfield

Travellers visiting Antarctica have described it as a truly transformative experience. It is without a doubt the journey of a lifetime and an adventure that lives with you forever.

Your 18-day journey commences in vibrant Buenos Aires, the birthplace of tango, from where you’ll travel to Ushuaia visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park and embarking on your epic voyage to Antarctica.

RAC Cruise Club is offering members a unique opportunity to experience the world’s white continent on an exclusive guided holiday accompanied by The West Australian’s travel editor and photographer Stephen Scourfield.

RAC Cruise Club’s ‘Marine Mammals with Stephen Scourfield’ tour departs March 2016 and includes all return international and internal flights, accommodation in South America and a 10-night expedition cruise including all meals and port transfers.

If you’d like to find out more, contact RAC Cruise Club on 1300 655 898 or visit rac.com.au/cruise.

RAC Whiteman Park Family Fun Day Following another successful year of free member events, RAC Travel will be holding its final member event for 2015 on 28 November at Whiteman Park.

The RAC Whiteman Park Family Fun Day will be held in a dedicated members-only area with free entertainment and activities for the kids, a sausage sizzle, plus a visit from RAC’s Little Legends characters, Chip and Ash. RAC Little Legends Club is an exciting new program for children that enables them to learn about road safety in a fun and interactive way. Membership is free and parents and children have access to fantastic member benefits.

As well as fun family day

activities you’ll also be able to explore the range of popular attractions at Whiteman Park including the Children’s Forest, water playground and the fascinating Motor Museum.

To be part of RAC’s free Whiteman Park Family Fun Day, book your place now then pack a picnic and make your way to Whiteman Park on Saturday 28 November. The free event commences at 10am and concludes at 3pm. For more information visit rac.com.au/memberevents or email gottagowa@rac.com.au.

To book your place, visit the RAC online shop at rac.com.au/shop.

Bookings are essential.

October / November 2015 Horizons 49

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

Volvo XC60 D4

S

ince its introduction to the Australian market in early 2008, the Volvo XC60 has established itself as the go-to mid-sized luxury SUV for safety-focused Australians.

As a result, it’s currently Volvo’s best-selling vehicle.

The XC60 was also the first production vehicle in the Australian market with autonomous braking. Even better, it was standard.

Nowadays, autonomous braking is continuing to become more widely available, with the technology appearing on increasingly affordable new vehicles such as the Mazda2 and the Skoda Fabia.

Auto braking and a rear camera are standard equipment

in the XC60, however our test vehicle was also equipped with the optional driver support pack ($5,000).

This brings extra features such as Queue Assist, which in heavy traffic automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to match that of the vehicle in front.

The driver still has to steer the vehicle and be ready to take full control, but it’s technology like this that is taking us ever closer to the reality of fully autonomous cars on WA roads.

The driver support pack includes other tech such as Road Sign Information (RSI), which can ‘see’ roadside speed signs and alert the driver if they are speeding.

As part of its November 2014 update, the XC60’s interior was

50 Horizons October / November 2015

Volvo XC60 D4 specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

also revamped.

This included a new colour TFT screen in front of the driver, which houses the vital gauges such as the speedo and fuel gauge, while there’s also a gauge indicating how much power you’re using.

This screen is also where, in vehicles where it is fitted, you can see the speed zone you’re in and other information such as the status of the adaptive cruise

$78,442 drive away 2.0-litre four cylinder turbo diesel 133kW @ 4250rpm 400Nm @ 1750–2500rpm 4.9 litres/100km 127g/km +++++

control system.

In the XC60 there is a choice of four engines – two diesels and two petrols. We tried the 2.0-litre turbo diesel, which comes in the entry-level XC60 D4.

It makes 133kW and 400Nm, which in a vehicle this size is acceptable but by no means is it a performance machine.

What surprised was its fuel efficiency – we recorded 5.5L/100km around town. O

Test drive The bodywork changes were more a light massage than major surgery, but there have been far more significant changes beneath the epidermis.

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

BMW X3 xDrive 30d

I

t’s no coincidence we’ve decided to look at the BMW X3 in the same edition of Horizons that we test drive the Volvo XC60.

Both of these models compete for the dollars of punters with similar profiles, although the Volvo is slightly cheaper.

The current BMW X3 received a styling refresh in 2014, and was given a bolder-looking front grille and crisper, more defined tail light treatments.

The bodywork changes were more of a light massage than major surgery, but there have been far more significant changes beneath the epidermis.

Chief among those is the introduction of a new 2.0-litre diesel engine, which packs an impressive 140kW and 400Nm. The all-aluminium, 2.0-litre

power plant also delivers a remarkable fuel consumption figure of 5.2L/100km in the official test, and emissions of 138g/km.

These numbers are all slight improvements on this engine’s predecessor, which have been enabled in part thanks to BMW turning up the pressure of the common rail direct fuel injection system.

Now, it injects fuel into the cylinders at more than 29,000psi.

So the 2.0-litre diesel in the X3 now churns out more power and torque while using less fuel and emitting less CO2.

It’s obvious there has been significant investment in making the interior a more inviting and comfortable place to be.

The X3 now gets a little more colour, thanks to some different

BMW X3 xDrive 30d specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

wood trim options and chrome highlights, which add elements of luxury and help dilute the blackness that can dominate some BMW interiors.

Where the X3 really excels is in the way it drives. With longitudinally mounted engines and a rear- wheel drive-focused platform, this is the benchmark luxury midsized SUV driving experience.

In corners, it simply grips, tucks in and follows the curve

$87,400 drive away 3.0-litre six cylinder turbo diesel 190kW @ 4,000rpm 560Nm @ 1500–3000rpm 5.9 litres/100km 156g/km +++++

with total confidence, no tyre scrubbing and excellent body control.

The xDrive 30d we tested also had no trouble maintaining momentum out of the corner.

The steering is electrically assisted, but it is a rack and pinion set up and steering crispness is still good given it’s a non-hydraulic system.

Four cylinder variants such as the 20d carry a five-star ANCAP safety rating. O October / November 2015 Horizons 51

Test drive

Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium

I

t’s been 20 years since the Subaru Outback was launched in Australia, and to mark the occasion Subaru decided to surprise us with the launch of the latest model in December 2014.

The surprise had nothing to do with the car’s equipment, performance or appearance.

It was all to do with the price.

Thanks in part to the Japanese Free Trade Agreement, and partly to strengthen its case against competitors, all versions of the new Outback had their prices cut.

The biggest reduction was reserved for the range-topping Outback 3.6R, which at $47,990 is $10,000 cheaper than it was in the previous generation.

The entry-level Outback 2.5i is down $3,000 to $35,990, while

the 2.5i Premium we tested is $2,000 cheaper at $41,490 plus on roads.

Subaru has also thrown more equipment into the new Outback, such the brand’s EyeSight autonomous emergency braking system as standard across the range.

In previous iterations of EyeSight, this would not have necessarily been a good thing because the original version was somewhat paranoid, and sounded alarms when no crash was imminent.

The system has now been significantly retuned and improved. Not only have the number of false alarms been significantly reduced, other clever features have been added. These include a function designed to reduce the effects

52 Horizons October / November 2015

Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

of unintended acceleration.

The car can detect when there is an obstruction in front of it, and if the accelerator is suddenly depressed, it can restrict the sudden movement of the vehicle.

The Outback can also ‘see’ the brake lights of a vehicle in front. If the EyeSight-equipped Outback does not move when the vehicle in front sets off, it’ll alert the driver. Plus, the Lineartronic continuously

$46,295 drive away 2.5-litre four cylinder petrol 129kW @ 5800rpm 235Nm @ 4000rpm 7.3 litres/100km 167g/km +++++

variable transmission has been retuned in the new Outback.

When under load, it has built-in ‘steps’ which help minimise flaring engine revs. It’s the best CVT we’ve driven.

The addition of active torque vectoring as standard and a revised ESC system are key contributors to the Outback’s surefootedness in the wet.

Accelerating out of an uphill and wet corner, it stuck like a gecko on Glad Wrap.O

Test drive The Octavia Scout is another reason for consumers to re-think their options when it comes to buying a station wagon or SUV.

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

Skoda Octavia Scout 132TSI

W

hen Skoda launched its Octavia medium-sized car in late 2013 with a starting price of $21,690 plus on roads, both the industry and consumers took notice.

Here was a medium-sized car for the price of a small one, and a car which also made many people reassess their new car options.

Now, the Octavia Scout is another reason for consumers to re-think their options when it comes to buying a rugged station wagon or medium-sized SUV. The Scout is based on Volkswagen Group’s widely used MQB platform (Golf 7, Passat, Audi A3), which bodes well on the handling front.

Though you’ll have to bear in mind it’s taller than its MQB contemporaries and is carrying

a little more weight with the Haldex all-wheel drive system.

At 1.8 litres, the Scout’s petrol engine is significantly smaller than the Outback’s 2.5-litre unit, but the Scout does have turbocharging.

This helps it to produce more power and torque than the Outback’s bigger, naturally aspirated flat four-cylinder unit.

Though the Scout’s engine outputs are only slightly more than the Outback’s, the real difference is in how the outputs are delivered.

The Scout’s full 280Nm comes in at as little as 1350rpm, whereas in the Outback you have to rev it all the way to 4000rpm in order to get 45Nm less torque.

At 7.1L/100km, the Scout’s fuel consumption is slightly lower than the Outback’s but don’t get

Skoda Octavia Scout 132TSI specifications Price (as tested) Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

too excited – the Scout requires more expensive, premium unleaded petrol.

In the 132TSI and 135TDI, engine outputs are sent through a six-speed DSG gearbox and on to the Haldex 5 all-wheel drive system. The 110TDI comes with a six-speed manual.

The first thing you’ll notice when you open the boot of the Octavia Scout is the cargo area’s deep floor and its general

$41,990 drive away 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol 132kW @ 4500–6200rpm 280Nm @ 1350–4500rpm 7.1 litres/100km 163g/km +++++

gear-swallowing dimensions.

There’s 588 litres of space, compared with the Subaru Outback’s 512 litres. Also handy are the levers in the cargo area, which remotely lower the rear seat. We found that particularly useful when transporting a basketball hoop and stand.

Like the Outback, the Scout has a reversing camera as standard across the range. O October / November 2015 Horizons 53

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Visit our

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What’s new

The latest news from the motoring world

BMW’s vitality seats Last year, we introduced you to Mercedes-Benz’s special seats, which, on the luxurious S-Class model, offer rear passengers an “energising massage function based on the hot-stone principle”. Well, BMW has taken up the challenge, and on its competing flagship 7-Series, there are massaging seats that have a “Vitality Program”, which has been devised to assist passengers to “engage in active training to revitalise the body on longer journeys”. BMW says the training program instructions are displayed on the rear entertainment screens. Don’t be surprised if pedicures are offered next year!

Five-star Cherokee The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has re-rated the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and all models built after March 2013 with either of the petrol or diesel V6 engines have five stars. Previously, ANCAP had used a 2012 Euro NCAP test for the original Grand Cherokee model, which resulted in four stars. Since then, the Grand Cherokee has been upgraded and re-rated by ANCAP. The particular area

where the Grand Cherokee recorded improvements was in the frontal offset crash test, where improvements in driver protection helped earn it five stars.

Manual demise The manual gearbox is slowly going the way of the dodo, with sales of cars with three pedals almost halving since the year 2000. According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, of all light vehicles sold in 2000, 40 per cent were manual.

In 2014, only 21 per cent of new light vehicles sold were manual. Automatic transmissions have gradually been improving in their efficiency and functionality in recent years, particularly those that offer drivers the ability to select gears themselves or to be driven as an auto, such as in DSG gearboxes and some CVTs.

Auto-braking bargains This year has seen a record number of affordable new cars launched that include proven crash avoidance systems such as autonomous braking. At the time of writing, top of the class in 2015 was the Skoda Fabia, a light car that makes this technology (called City Emergency Brake Function in Skoda-speak) available in a car costing $15,990 drive away. A number of small cars have also made autonomous braking available, including the 2015 LZ Ford Focus and Mazda3, albeit only on the range-topping models or as an option.

October / November 2015 Horizons 55

2016

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56 Horizons October / November 2015

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*Based on Explorer Suite Category, upgrades available.

Subject to availability at time of booking. Prices are based on per person twin share. Package is for new bookings only. For bookings until 31 December 2015. Other cruise dates are available and surcharges may apply. Credit card surcharges may apply.

Ask the car doctor

Our experts answer your questions

A:

Suspicious speedometer

Q

My car, a Toyota Corolla Ascent, is less than 18 months old and I have doubts about the accuracy of the speedometer. When I am using cruise control, roadside speed checks usually indicate I’m 5km under the limit and, on the freeway, with speedometer set at 100km, most cars overtake me. How accurate are roadside speed checks and the speedometers in modern cars? I’ve heard that manufacturers deliberately build in a safety margin by showing cars to be travelling faster than they actually are.

Vincent Hughes, Kalamunda

A:

Vehicle manufacturers are bound by the Australian Design Rules (which are the national technical standards for vehicle safety) to ensure their vehicles’ speedometers do not indicate a speed less than the vehicle’s true speed.

You are correct in that this is a built-in safety margin. The indicated speed must also not be greater than the vehicle’s true speed by an amount of more than 10 per cent plus

4 km/h. This means speedos must always read ‘safe’, and the vehicle’s true speed must not be higher than the speed indicated by the speedo. If you feel that your vehicle’s speedo is not accurate enough, there are several instrument specialists in WA that will be able to assist.

Gear grumbles

Q

With regards to cars with manual transmission, I have often read that car engine efficiency is optimised for running around 3000rpm.

However, lately, some driving schools have told my kids to switch to fourth gear in areas where the speed limit is 50km/h, or to fifth gear when the speed limit is 70 or 80km/h, lowering the rpm to around 2000rpm or slightly under. I usually keep third gear for 50km/h, fourth for 60–80km/h and fifth gear for the freeway at 100km/h. But isn’t that riskier as you are less likely to benefit from engine braking when driving at low gear and as a result you will have to use your pedal brake more often? Who is right?

Liliane Bourgault du Coudray, Connolly

Generally speaking, cruising at 3000rpm could begin to cause excessive fuel consumption, noise and engine wear. Keeping the revs between 2000rpm and 3000rpm in normal driving should provide an acceptable balance of performance and fuel efficiency, however the point of optimal efficiency will vary between vehicles and the way they’re being used.

Engine braking in cars is an older concept, which was promoted as an option at a time when vehicle brakes were far less capable and durable than they are in modern passenger vehicles. In normal driving, using your vehicle’s brakes will stop your vehicle safely and more smoothly than attempting to utilise engine braking in conjunction with the brakes.

Service schedules

Q

We have a Proton S16 FLX sedan automatic.

As per the manufacturer’s recommendations, it is required to be serviced at least once a year. We also have a Honda City sedan (2009) for which our current usage is only 200km to 300km per month. Can we get our Honda serviced every year rather than six months due to minimum usage?

You can be a winner If your question is published you will receive a copy of the UBD Gregory’s 2016 Perth and Surrounds Street Directory from RAC Travel, which includes new streets and suburbs, petrol station locations and more.

See page 81 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.

Parag Shah, Ellenbrook

A: Vehicle servicing generally covers items that are susceptible to both usage and age, and the manufacturer has stipulated this servicing so the consumer gets optimal longevity and efficiency out of the engine. However, you are not obliged to service your vehicle at a dealer and more affordable servicing may be available from qualified independent workshops, which can carry out the work as recommended by the manufacturer.

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.

October / November 2015 Horizons 57

Member Lounge People, places, prizes and RAC news Inspections and car history reports

Keep you car battery healthy Correct car battery maintenance will ensure your battery is kept in the best possible condition, which could prolong its life.

Check that your battery is secure at all times as vibrations can damage the battery plates. If you’re away for an extended period, consider charging your battery when you return using a battery charger suitable for your vehicle.

If your battery does fail, call RAC Batteries, seven days a week. We can install your battery for you or deliver a battery to you if you’d prefer to install it yourself*. *Delivery and installation in Perth metropolitan area only.

58 Horizons October / November 2015

Before committing to purchasing a used car, members should consider an RAC Vehicle Inspection. The comprehensive inspection, performed by experienced mechanics, gives a true picture of the current state of the vehicle. This can also be useful just before the end of a car’s dealership warranty.

It includes a car history report that shows if there is any money owing on the vehicle, who the legitimate owner is, whether it has ever been written off, an insurance claim check, the ANCAP safety rating and emissions rating.

The car history report is valued at $39.95 and is included with your vehicle inspection at no extra cost.

For more information or to book at any of RAC’s nine auto service centres, visit rac.com.au/autoservices.

Driver enhancement DTEC, RAC’s driver training centre, can help improve young drivers’ on-road and car-maintenance skills with free driver enhancement courses for under-25s.

On completion you can save 20 per cent on your next year of RAC Comprehensive Car Insurance.

For full terms and conditions visit rac.com.au/dec.

Book travel online any time If you prefer the ease of booking your holidays online, remember you can book your entire holiday online with RAC and receive member savings on selected products.

Find and book the best airfare, choose from thousands of hotels or combine your flights and accommodation into a package and save even more.

From our Cruise Club website you can book your complete cruise holiday. As one of WA’s leading cruise agencies we offer a wide range of cruise options with exclusive offers and benefits for RAC members. Find your cruise, choose your cabin and your extras then confirm and book it all online.

For airfares and accommodation bookings visit travel.rac.com.au and to research and book your cruise visit rac.com.au/cruise.

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

Manage your insurance easily online RAC Insurance now makes managing your policies and claims even easier, with our new online policy management system accessible 24 hours a day on your mobile, tablet or desktop computer.

The online system allows you to view and update details of your RAC insurance policies.

Secure home alarm monitoring with wireless The installation of the National Broadband Network (NBN) will change the way fixed telephone and internet services are delivered to your home and it will also affect monitored alarm systems.

If you have a monitored alarm, once you have been notified the NBN is available in your area, you will need to contact your security alarm provider to advise that your monitoring needs to be switched over.

Organise this as soon as you’re notified to ensure your alarm monitoring can continue unaffected.

If you have RAC car insurance you can update your policy details when you move to a new address or buy a new car.

If your area has the NBN’s fixed wireless network, wireless monitoring is the best option.

Using a wireless 3G connection for alarm monitoring eliminates the need for a fixed phone line and the associated costs, which could save you up to $300 a year. Wireless connections are also more secure as there is no line that can be physically tampered with.

RAC offers a high-quality wireless monitoring product that is NBN ready.

For more information about switching your monitoring to wireless, call RAC Security on 1300 132 735.

At renewal time you can view your renewal information, adjust your excess or agreed value and pay your renewal.

You can make a claim online 24 hours a day, seven days a week and view details of any active claims, such as your excess or repairer details, for car insurance claims.

Plus, if you have made a car claim for window glass, you will be immediately assigned a glazier who will call you shortly after your online claim has been submitted.

To register, or for more information, visit rac.com.au/myinsurance and enter your policy or membership number, plus your email address.

Look out for more features in the RAC member login area over the coming months.

More than 150 member travel offers Before you book a holiday in WA, make sure you check the full range of RAC member travel benefits.

We offer members a huge range of discounts through RAC member partners and more than 150 of those are travel products and services.

You can save on anything from accommodation to food outlets, attractions and tours. To receive your discount wherever you are, just show your RAC membership card or quote your member number, found on your RAC membership card, when making any bookings.

Visit rac.com.au/travelmemberbenefits to see the full range of travel discounts and benefits. You can also keep our deals handy by downloading our member benefits app for iPhone and Android and browsing the Travel section.

Follow the download link from rac.com.au/app.

October / November 2015 Horizons 59

(C) Lochman Transparencies - Jiri & Marie Lochman

Giving back for a better environment Members save 10% on carbon offsets We live in a lucky place. It’s a truly beautiful state, and we’d like it to stay that way.

So we’re giving back for a sustainable WA. Sustainability includes initiatives like our Member Carbon Offset Program that gives members a 10% discount on carbon offsets for home and car emissions.

We do all this and more, because we’re proud of our home. And we want the next generation to be just as proud.

See how you can benefit at rac.com.au/environment Offer is subject to change without notice and is only available to current RAC members. Carbon Neutral Charitable Fund is the product issuer and is an organisation independent of the RAC. Purchasers should make their own enquiries as to the suitability of the product purchased and their tax deductibility.

R14438

MemberBenefits

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

Save

4c

per litre

on fuel See page 62

Save 10% off

your favourite sporting brands

Entertainment

Shopping & Lifestyle

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.

Check out these latest offers.

MS

73 Shopping & Lifestyle 73 Automotive

1. Check out the latest offers in this issue

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Make the most of your membership by following these simple steps:

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ber Mem e Sinc

4. Visit rac.com.au/mb to stay up to date with all the latest news, offers and benefits

ber Mem ber Num

78 Travel & Holidays

R14541

R14579

Save up to

20%*

Save on tickets to the cricket » Commonwealth Bank Test Match, WACA – Australia vs New Zealand, 13-17 November 2015 » Victoria Bitter One Day International Series, WACA – Australia vs India, 12 January 2016

Buy now rac.com.au/cricket *Terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/cricket for details.

62 Horizons October / November 2015

RAC members save 4c per litre on fuel at Shell Coles Express Another way we're giving back to our members Show your RAC membership card in-store and save.

rac.com.au/fuel Terms & conditions apply. Not valid in conjunction with a Coles Supermarket 4c fuel discount docket. See rac.com.au/fuel for details.

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Shopping & Lifestyle

R14579

Save at onsport.com.au RAC members can now save 10%* on over 140 great brands and 4000+ sporting products. All from the comfort of your home!

Find out more at rac.com.au/onsport *Terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/onsport for details.

October / November 2015 Horizons 63

Home & Garden

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

SAVE 35% FLOREAT PROPERTY SETTLEMENTS

RECEIVE A 10%* DISCOUNT ELITE POOL COVERS

If purchasing or selling your home or rural property, Floreat Settlements will provide a 35%* discount on the scaled settlement fee to RAC members.

Visit our showroom

*Applies to all metropolitan and country areas.

RAC MEMBERS, WE’LL MATCH ANY WRITTEN QUOTE.

Call 9245 4822

Elite... WA’s best-selling pool covers s 4UPQT FWBQPSBUJPO s ,FFQT ZPVS QPPM DMFBOFS s )FBUT ZPVS QPPM CZ VQ UP œ$ Call now and do your bit to help save our precious water. $POUBDU &MJUF XJUI ZPVS QPPM TJ[F BOE UBLF BEWBOUBHF PG UIF EJTDPVOU QIPOF DPVOUFS RVPUFT POMZ

Call 9240 2262

or email admin@floreatsettlements.com.au www.floreatsettlements.com.au

(Country call: 1300 136 696) PS WJTJU PVS GBDUPSZ TIPXSPPN BU $SFTTBMM 3PBE #BMDBUUB 0ŇFS BWBJMBCMF VOUJM /PW 'BDUPSZ EJSFDU TBMFT POMZ /PU WBMJE XJUI BOZ PUIFS PŇFS PS JG &MJUF IBT UP NFBTVSF QPPM

Garage Door Needing Attention?

RAC Members receive

RECEIVE 10%* OFF FULL HOUSE OUSE GUTTER REPLACEMENT s (VUUFST BOE %PXOQJQFT s 3PPG 3FTUPSBUJPO s 3JEHFDBQ 3F QPJOUJOH s 4LZMJHIUT s "MM (FOFSBM 3PPG 3FQBJST s "MM XPSL HVBSBOUFFE "MM XPSL HVBSBOUFFE

10% Off parts*

We willy beat an! quote

HUGE RANGE OF GARAGE DOOR PARTS

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

9303 9334

Unit1/5 Quantum link Wangara WA 6065

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

Let the spring shine in!

Call 0439 707 578 or 9398 9861 XXX SPPGSFOFXBMT DPN BV

300mm

360mm

$185 ZINC $195 COLORBOND

$210 ZINC $220 COLORBOND

Fully installed

Fully installed *Conditions apply

Skylights

Improve your mood today

Bring instant clarity to any room with natural daylight.

Aust ustral ra ia’s highest estt qu qual uali ality ty y TLZMJH HIUT IU -V VY VYV YVSJ SJP PVT V TFM VT TFMFDUJJPO of sty tyles less to su uit it any y ro room. m.

Showrooms at Balcatta, Subiaco, Bunbury & Albany PERTH DAYLIGHTING servicing all regions in WA

64 Horizons October / November 2015

8%

discount off selected products with

Perth Daylighting

Natural Daylight Solutions.

Units 5 & 6/1 Halley Road (cnr Geddes Road), Balcatta

RAC members receive a

Skylig with s hts tyle SOL ATUB E

Call 9240 4045 Bunbury ext 7013

XXX QFSUIEBZMJHIUJOH DPN BV s XXX TLZMJHIUTXB DPN BV

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Home & Garden

RAC members save

$

500 on RRP

October / November 2015 Horizons 65

Home & Garden

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

% SAVE 40 CALL NOW! and take advantage of our super summer savings, we are offering a massive 40% off on every electric roller shutter purchase*

RAC Members receive

FREE

remote control upgrade with every electric roller shutter purchased

*Offer ends 30th November 2015

66 Horizons October / November 2015

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Home & Garden

The only place for

DIY DECKING THIS SPRING

Save

Save

$10

$5

on 10L

on 4L

iZbgmieZ\^'\hf'Zn

VISIT US IN STORE FOR EXCLUSIVE MEMBER DISCOUNTS!* IZbgm IeZ\^ ;ng[nkr IZbgm IeZ\^ @^kZe]mhg ;hgZgsZ IZbgm IeZ\^ :'D IZbgm IeZ\^ !D^efl\hmm"

I^^e IZbgm IeZ\^ !FZg]nkZa" IZbgm IeZ\^ Fb]eZg] <hngmkr IZbgm Lniieb^l !GZkkh`bg" :g\ahk IZbgm IeZ\^

IZbgm P^lm IZbgm IeZ\^ !Hl[hkg^ IZkd" Kh\dbg`aZf IZbgm IeZ\^

*At participating WA Paint Place stores only. With proof of RAC membership, members will receive $5 off the RRP of 4L and $10 off the RRP of 10L Paint or Decking oil. Offer limited to New Look Trim Enamel, Taubmans Endure, Wattyl Weathergard Decking Oil, New Look Decking Oil, Wattyl Solagard & New Look Exterior. Offer for white bases only. Not all brands available at all stores. Offer ends 30 November 2015.

Discounted prices not available with any other other offer.

October / November 2015 Horizons 67

Home & Garden

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

The CSIRO recommends annual termite inspections

Save

$165 Plus, 15% off all other services*

*RAC member discounts and offers are not applicable to warranty renewal contracts or other Termico offers. Offer only applicable in metro and selected country areas (Bunbury and Busselton).

Spider treatment not available with pre-purchase inspection. Offer available once per household.** To approved customers only.

68 Horizons October / November 2015

RAC Members Exclusive Offer only $190* (Normally $355) Offer only available once per household

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Home & Garden

Enjoy your alfresco living in style this summer

40%* OFF ELECTRIC ROLLER SCREENS 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.

CALL 1300 798 776

or email info@nustyleshutters.com.au For a free measure and quote all areas Unit 1/39 Enterprise crescent, Malaga

www.nustyleshutters.com.au *Offer ends 30th November 2015 October / November 2015 Horizons 69

Home & Garden

RAC Members save

$500 on RRP

70 Horizons October / November 2015

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

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Home & Garden

BUILDING RENOVATING REPLACING

oom thr Ba hen c Kit ndr y Lau

EXPERT ADVICE / EASY-TO-VIEW SHOWROOMS / EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE / MASSIVE RANGE RAC Members receive

15% off RRP

ALL KITCHEN & LAUNDRY CABINETS BUILT AND READY FOR EASY INSTALLATION ENGINEERED STONE TOPS ALSO AVAILABLE DIY OR WE CAN ARRANGE INSTALLATION FOR YOU! First 10 RAC Members receive

FREE DELIVERY Conditions Apply: Minimum order value - $1000 Perth Metro Only, Ground Floor

OPEN SUN 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm

BALDIVIS

BUNBURY

OSBORNE PARK

CANNING VALE

GOSNELLS

P: 9590 2520

P: 9792 4224

SUPER STORE

P: 9456 2299

P: 6396 5090

MANDURAH P: 9583 3900

MIDVALE P: 9244 4486 P: 9274 8677

MYAREE

WANGARA

P: 9330 1500

P: 9302 4533

www.sinkwarehouse.com.au OPEN: Mon to Fri: 9.00am to 5.00pm Sat: 9.00am to 4.00pm

October / November 2015 Horizons 71

Home & Garden

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

5%

Extra saving for RAC Members# ALL PATIOS, ANY SIZE, ANY STYLE, CUSTOM BUILT TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS & AVAILABLE IN A GREAT RANGE OF COLORBONDÂŽ COLOURS. DEAL WITH FACTORY DIRECT & SAVE WITH OUR EXCEPTIONAL BUYING POWER & OUR QUALITY RANGE OF PATIOS & GARAGES.*

ROOM EXTENSIONS

-HJ[VY` +PYLJ[ >LH[OLY[L_ YVVTZ HYL H]HPSHISL PU IV[O .HISL HUK -SH[ YVVM KLZPNUZ LP[OLY MYLLZ[HUKPUN VY M\SS` H[[HJOLK

# Valid RAC Membership Card must be presented at time of purchase to redeem offer.

FLATSPAN PATIO SPECIALS EXCLUSIVE TO FACTORY DIRECT

PATIOS

FLAT ROOF GABLE ROOF

SIZE NOW

SIZE NOW

5x3 6x3 7x3 5x4 6x4 7x4 5x5 6x5 7x5

5x3 6x3 7x3 5x4 6x4 7x4 5x5 6x5 7x5

$25000 $28000 $31000 $30000 $34000 $38000 $35000 $40000 $45000

$27500 $30800 $34100 $33000 $37400 $41800 $38500 $44000 $49500

ATTACHED UNIT PRICES LISTED1.

FLAT ROOF

SIZE PRICE 7x3 8x3 9x3 10 x 3 11 x 3

$3360 $3840 $4320 $4800 $5280

GABLE ROOF FLAT ROOF

GABLE ROOF FLAT ROOF

GABLE ROOF

SIZE PRICE SIZE PRICE SIZE PRICE SIZE PRICE SIZE PRICE

7x3 8x3 9x3 10 x 3 11 x 3

$6489 $7416 $7722 $8580 $9438

5x4 6x4 7x4 8x4 9x4

$3200 $3840 $4480 $5120 $5760

5x4 6x4 7x4 8x4 9x4

$6421 $7416 $8008 $9152 $10296

5x5 6x5 7x5 8x5 9x5

$4000 $4800 $5600 $6400 $7200

5x5 6x5 7x5 8x5 9x5

$7725 $8580 $10010 $11440 $12870

MANY MORE PRODUCTS ON OFFER! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL STOCK LISTINGS!

WORKSHOPS

$4260 $4340

5.35 x 3.10 6.12 x 3.10 6.89 x 3.10 7.66 x 3.10 8.45 x 3.10 9.22 x 3.10

$4880 $5140 $5418 $5706 $6286 $6654

$4020 $4260 $4518 $4776 $5336 $5684

$860 $880 $900 $930 $950 $970

5.35 x 3.83 6.12 x 3.83 6.89 x 3.83 7.66 x 3.83 8.45 x 3.83 9.22 x 3.83

$4975 $5240 $5530 $5831 $6421 $6884

$4095 $4340 $4610 $4881 $5451 $5894

$880 $900 $920 $950 $970 $990

$5698

5.35 x 4.66 6.12 x 4.66 6.89 x 4.66 7.66 x 4.66 8.45 x 4.66 9.22 x 4.66

$6168 $6618 $6771 $7019 $7186 $7556

$5268 $5698 $5831 $6059 $6206 $6556

$900 $920 $940 $960 $980 $1000

MASSIVE RANGE OF SIZES AND COLOURS

$6489

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

ROBUST CONSTRUCTION

SIZE

ZINC

C/BONDÂŽ C/BOND ROOF INSTALL

2.23 x 3.05 x 2.1 3.05 x 3.05 x 2.1 3.89 x 3.05 x 2.1 4.65 x 3.05 x 2.1 5.37 x 3.05 x 2.1 6.10 x 3.05 x 2.1

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

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

$79 $102 $129 $155 $178 $205

$370 $370 $370 $420 $420 $420

COCKBURN CENTRAL JOONDALUP/CLARKSON

CANNING VALE/SPEARWOOD

PORT KENNEDY/MANDURAH

DISPLAY CENTRES OPEN: 4VUKH` -YPKH` HT WT Â&#x2039; :H[\YKH` HT WT

www.factorydirectwa.com.au

division of kalmar pty ltd

# RAC 5% Member discount on top of these prices, prices offer only valid from 1st of October 2015 until 30th November 2015.

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 speciďŹ cations, building permit fees, planning approval fees, water corporation fees, delivery, installation, concrete ďŹ&#x201A;oors, skylights, in-ďŹ lls, freestanding units, lattice, windows and personal access doors. All colorbond garages and workshops have zinc roof as standard. For full details contact Factory Direct.

1. Free-standing Room Extensions are priced differently. See instore for full measurements. Photographs used with paint or varnishes are for illustration purposes only. Contact Factory Direct for more information.

72 Horizons October / November 2015

Show your RAC membership card and startShopping saving & Lifestyle

Automotive

SAVE $390 WITH GARDEN WATER BORES

SAVE 10%* ON YOUR TAX DEPRECIATION SCHEDULE

Metro-wide retic and bore installation and repairs

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

If you don’t have a depreciation schedule on your investment property, then you could be missing out on thousands of dollars each year.

Opteon Property Group prepare depreciation schedules for all types of commercial and residential properties. The primary benefit is tax claim maximisation.

Call 1300 734 300 or 0411 511 611 Also bore and reticulation service and maintenance

SAVE 10% OFF CARAVAN ACCESSORIES KEN PEACHEY CARAVAN REPAIRS

Call 08 9488 4870

Insurance, servicing, modification, accessories and canvas work.

or email jeremy.mcgrade@opg.net *Offer available to RAC members only.

Not valid with any other offer.

Call (08) 9277 1381 or Email info@kenpeachey.com

SAVE UP TO 45%* ON ALL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR BLINDS AND CURTAINS WITH VISION DECOR

SAVE 10%* AT MISS MAUD SWEDISH RESTAURANT

www.kenpeachey.com 194 Campbell Street Belmont WA 6104

Licensed repairer MRB1167

Come and enjoy 10% off our irresistible Smörgåsbord Smörgåsbord Breakfast or lunch – Monday to Friday Smörgåsbord Dinner – Sunday to Thursday

We specialise in all types of interior and exterior blinds & curtains all custom made to measure in our factory in Malaga.

Contact our friendly staff for a quote today!

Please present your valid RAC Card on arrival to receive the discount for your entire group.

Only one payment per table.

Reservations are essential.

97 MURRAY STREET PERTH

FOR A FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE PLEASE

Call 9248 6160 *Terms and conditions apply

2/19 Exhibition Drive Malaga WA 6090 www.visiondecor.com.au

Call 9325 3900 Direct bookings only *Excluding special events. Not valid with any other offer. Valid 1 October – 30 November 2015.

Discount on Smörgåsbord only.

10%OFF

Premium Quality Electric Bikes Outsanding German Built Tricycles

*

AT REPCO REP422496

The secret’s out @ebikesrus

As an RAC member you’ll get 10% 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.

Electric Bike Specialists s 4FSWJDJOH NBEF FBTZ s 'VMMZ JOUFHSBUFE 8JSJOH )BSOFTT Electric Bikes - 5 Models Electric Tricycles - 3 Models Electric Fat Tyre All Terrain Bike

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

s &YDMVTJWF "VTUSBMJBO EJTUSJCVUPS s (VBSBOUFFE CBDLVQ s "HFOUT FORVJSJFT XFMDPNF s /P QFUSPM /P QPMMVUJPO s /P QBSLJOH /P QSPCMFNT s 1 8FBUIFSQSPPGJOH SBUJOH Operating for nine years at: Shop 76, E-Shed

www.repco.com.au

R422496

Don’t forget to show your card & save.

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.

EBIKESRUS Members of the Caravan and Camping Association

October / November 2015 Horizons 73

Shopping & Lifestyle

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

Big Savings On Latest Technology Hearing Aids Now start at only

ea

1,495

$

after discount

30 Day

money back guarantee** if you’re not completely satisfied with your hearing aid

A brand new breakthrough in hearing aid technology is now available in Australia from us at the Hearing Loss Specialists Clinics, and it’s virtually invisible.

These new hearing aids needs no physical adjustments – these automatically adjust to different sounds by using an advanced 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 and with superb clear hearing.

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.

30 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

LATEST TECHNOLOGY WITH NATURAL SOUND

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS & PENSIONERS & FREE HEARING TESTS

SPECIAL MODELS FOR SEVERE HEARING LOSS

MODELS FOR BOTH MEN & WOMEN

All Clinics 9350 6311 Main Clinic: 12 Pattie Street, Cannington Balcatta Rockingham

www.hearingloss.net.au

74 Horizons October / November 2015

Cannington Wembly

*Not valid with any other promotion **Conditions apply

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Shopping & Lifestyle

KING OF KITCHENS RRP $2799

RRP $6790

RAC price

RAC price

$2399

$5690

Sunco SC32

Everdure Brighton Kitchen

Pyro

High Quality Stainless Steel Grill and Hotplate. Rear burner for succulent rotisserie cooking. Limited 5 year warranty.

The 6 burner barbecue Island Module has everything needed for the ultimate alfresco kitchen setup. Cooler module to chill drinks.

4 Burner BBQ Kitchen with enamel plates and high output burners. Large viewing window. Hot and cold mixing tap with sink and teppenyaki unit.

Bring in your plans for a quote and discount

RAC price

RRP $6890

$6990*

RAC price

$6800*

Dome

Gasmate Platinum

Marble bench tops and single door glass fridge, 4 burner BBQ of your choice and mixer tap and sink. *No charge for delivery and assembly (Value $500)

Full 304 Grade Stainless Steel 6 Burner Modular Kitchen with Rear Burner for rotisserie work and wok burner. Each modular unit is full 304 Grade Stainless Steel with Granite tops. Sink unit, Drawer unit, Bench unit, Corner unit with Stainless top, and fridge unit double or single. *BBQ, sink and 2 door fridge combo

RRP $11,800

RRP $5499

RRP $7890

RAC price

RAC price

RAC price

5% off

$3999*

$7350*

Artisan by Beefeater

Sunco Outdoor kitchen

Platinum Stone

The Ultimate outdoor kitchen with a 4 Burner BBQ on a rendered stone finish.

With granite top. *As displayed, including delivery and assembly

6 Burner alfresco kitchen with wok burner and stylish granite tops. 2 door fridge and draw module. 304 grade stainless steel and classy mixer tap and sink. *BBQ, sink, Wok, Fridge Combo

6 Burner BBQ kitchen with granite tops and a spray stone finish. Generous storage space with 304 Grade stainless steel. *BBQ, sink and 2 door fridge combo

BARBECUEBAZAAR OPEN MON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FRI 9-5PM SAT 9-4PM SUN 11-2PM www.barbecuebazaar.com.au

Balcatta

Cannington

Midland

30 Erindale Rd

1399 Albany hwy Telephone: 9458 5724

141 Great Eastern hwy Telephone: 9274 3334

Telephone: 9240 7188

October / November 2015 Horizons 75

Shopping & Lifestyle

76 Horizons October / November 2015

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

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

FRI, SAT, nov 27 & 28

With

In the wor of Tina Turnds er

' Creedence Clearwater Revival ' The Beatles ' Roy Orbison ' Johnny Cash ' Elvis Presley ' Marilyn Monroe

“Rebecca is! so good she is scar y!”

Shopping & Lifestyle

EL CABALLO RESORT

2015 Concert

RAC Members receive

20% off

& eVENT Series

AC ACCOMMODATION, CCOMM CARAVAN PARKING AND CAMPING A AVAILABLE FOR THESE EVENTS V

TRIBUTE FEST

BOOK NOW!

www.elcaballo.com.au

SEE OUR WEBSITE for complete show details, prices, gate opening times and VIP ticket options

3349 GREAT EASTERN HWY, WOOROLOO WA 6558

FRI, SAT, dec 11 & 12

new year’s eve dec 31

TOM BURLINSON WITH

SIMPLY SINATRA SHOW

TELEPHONE: 9573 3777

BIG CONCERT! ac Tribute Fleetwood M te

bu riib Queen T n ia l a r t s Au

Don’t miss this wonderful show under the stars SUPPORTED BY

BLOW THE HOUSE DOWN 10 PIECE BAND

Eurythmics Tribute e

3 BIG BANDS! UNDER THE STARS

SEE OUR WEBSITE for complete show details, prices, gate opening times and VIP ticket options

October / November 2015 Horizons 77

090815-70

SEE OUR WEBSITE for complete show details, prices, gate opening times and VIP ticket options

Shopping & Lifestyle

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

R14307

RAC RAC Members members Receive receive

$500 $500 OFF off RRP RRP

Members save 10% off 1000s of hotels worldwide

Book at rac.com.au/travel or call 1300 655 179 *Conditions apply. Valid for hotels booked online at rac.com.au/travel. 2.5% credit card fee applies.

RAC Members receive

15% Off regular prices Or 5% Off discounted prices

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing what a little snooze can do. snooze.com.au

For more information visit rac.com.au/snooze *15% saving applicable to the regular retail prices of all products for RAC members and 5% discount may be applied to already discounted items when you show your RAC member card at the point of purchase.

78 Horizons October / November 2015

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

RESORT APARTMENTS South Perth, Western Australia

Travel & Holidays

BEACH RESORT Busselton, Western Australia

GET YOUR FREE $50 VOUCHER* WITH ASHMORE PALMS HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Gold Coast Affordable Family

Cabin Accommodation

GOLD COAST

AUSTRALIA

M A R I N E R R E S O RT

Quiet location, Set on 15 acres

Geraldton, Western Australia

Check Prices & Availability Now at -

AshmorePalms.com.au/RAC-WAVoucher or

Call 1300 303 912

*Conditions Apply

R14152

Members save I0% on travel insurance 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 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.

Applecross » Albany » Bunbury » Carousel » Geraldton » Joondalup » Kalgoorlie » Mandurah » Morley » West Perth

October / November 2015 Horizons 79

Travel & Holidays

80 Horizons October / November 2015

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

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.

Qatar Airways promotion page 40

Car Doctor page 57

The competition begins on 23 September, 2015 at 9am (Australian Western Standard Time) and ends on 30 November, 2015 at 12 noon.

Entrants must not submit more than one entry. Up to one entrant (winner) may each be awarded only one prize as follows: return business-class flights with Qatar Airways departing Perth travelling to Amsterdam via Doha, seven-day Best of Holland tour from Trafalgar including six nights 4–5 star accommodation, most meals, coach travel and sightseeing for two people. Prize valued at $18,000. Prize is subject to availability. Blackout periods apply. The following costs are to be borne by the passenger: travel costs to and from the points of departure, travel insurance, visas, additional accommodation and meals outside those specified in prize inclusions, excess baggage over and above the approved 40kg and any other travel-related expenses.

Winner and travel companion will not accrue Qatar Airways frequent flyer points on the prize travel. Travel must be booked by 30 March, 2016 and completed by 30 November, 2016.

The travel companion of the winner must be 18 years or older. The winner shall be chosen by the judges from the entries at random. The winner will be drawn on 4 December, 2015 and notified in writing. When the winner is notified of their prize, they will be provided with details as to the collection of their prize. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The promoter reserves the right not to select winners of all or any prizes in its absolute discretion.

Each winner must claim their prize on or before 18 December, 2015.

Prizes must be claimed in person unless a winner is otherwise advised.

Photo identification will be required.

Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification.

This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winners) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a 2016 Perth and Surrounds UBD Street Directory, valued at $39.95. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winner will be notified by email, telephone or post. When the winner is notified of their prize they will be provided with details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in October/ November Horizons must claim their prize by 18 November, 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 $164. 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 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 October/ November Horizons must claim their prize by 18 November, 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.

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October / November 2015 Horizons 81

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The poor quality of the coal saw the mine shafts soon abandoned. Today it’s better known for its spectacular displays of wildflowers, in particular the vast blankets of pink and white everlastings.

There are walk trails through the park and impressive views of the surrounding landscape from the Irwin Lookout.

Spring wildflower spots

Lesueur National Park A must for serious wildflower enthusiasts, this national park is considered one of the most important flora conservation reserves in WA. Take the scenic drive trail that loops the park for the best views.

The park contains about 10 per cent of the state’s known flora, with more than 900 species growing in the park.

Stirling Range National Park

Kings Park Iconic Kings Park covers more than 400 hectares and in spring it comes alive with more than 1,700 native wildflower species, so there’s plenty for wildflower enthusiasts to enjoy right in the heart of Perth. Just take one of the many trails on either a self-guided or a free guided tour.

Yanchep National Park Yanchep National Park has nine walk trails ranging from easy 500m trails to a more challenging 46km track.

Each one showcases the park’s diverse plant life with an abundance of wildflower species from spring into early summer.

Gidgegannup There are several scenic walk trails around Gidgegannup where you can see wildflowers, including some 82 Horizons October / November 2015

varieties unique to this region.

FR Berry Reserve and Noble Falls are two popular spots to explore wildflowers in this area. Both have picnic areas and scenic lookouts and are close to Gidgegannup town.

throughout the park. See spider orchids, greenhoods and trigger plants. With its woodlands and granite outcrops, this is a stunning area to view both wildflowers and the Serpentine River winding through it all.

Victoria Plains Just south of New Norcia, take the picturesque Old Plains Road and head to the north of Toodyay through the shire of Victoria Plains. From August, vibrant wildflowers bloom throughout the area and are easily visible from the roadside. The drive along this historic road also takes in some of the region’s most attractive rural scenery.

Serpentine National Park The hills and forests of Serpentine National Park are filled with colour during spring as a diverse range of wildflowers spread

Wave Rock Head to Wave Rock near Hyden for a dramatic backdrop to the extensive displays of colourful spring wildflowers. The Wave Rock wildflower trail begins in York and takes in Bruce Rock, Kondinin and Corrigin among many other spring wildflower hotspots in the central Wheatbelt.

Coalseam Conservation Park North-east of Mingenew, Coalseam Conservation Park is the site of the first coal deposits found in WA and coal seams are still visible.

Within the Stirling Range National Park you’ll find wildflower trails for every kind of wildflower explorer.

There are more challenging paths and tracks through the park’s stunning peaks and many easily accessible locations to view the diverse range of wildflowers, some of which are unique to this region. Formby South Road, plus the trail around Bluff Knoll, are popular spots for wildflowers.

Fitzgerald River National Park This spectacular national park is one of the world’s most diverse botanical regions. It features about 1,800 different species of flowering plants set against a spectacular rocky coastline making this region a true highlight of the wildflower season. Much of the park is accessible by two-wheel drive vehicles, with many facilities such as camp grounds, picnic areas and viewing platform platforms throughout the park.

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