Horizons 2016 October/November

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

Your RAC magazine /

October / November 2016

WIN!

A Coral Coast or South West adventure see page 40

Weekend discovery

Take a fresh look at the Collie River valley

RAC’s driverless bus is on the road Owning an electric car

Your questions answered

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Horizons

Inside

Your RAC magazine October / November 2016

Editor-in-Chief Will Golsby Editor Vanessa Pogorelic Managing Editor Lucy Siebert

WIN!

A Coral Coast or South West adventure see page 40

Publisher Christine Dixon Design Glenn Moffatt Advertising Ben Treasure (WA only) tel: 08 9388 7844 ben@mediatonic.com.au Kerri Spillane tel: 03 8520 6444 kerrispillane@hardiegrant.com.au

21 Public

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

by Hardie Grant Media Building 1, 658 Church Street Richmond Victoria 3121 Australia hardiegrant.com.au

transport accessibility in Perth

Collie River cover image by David Budd Photography

CAB audited as at March 2016 is 526,564 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.

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Electric vehicle guide

Take the slow lane

RAC’s 2015-16 Annual Report

The most common electric vehicle (EV) questions answered.

Take your time and wind your way along the NSW’s South Coast.

An important year of advocacy and innovation for RAC.

4 Horizons October / November 2016

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Inside

your Horizons 60 Member Lounge

29

42

35

52

Road safety advertising

A look back at 90 years of Roadside Assistance; RAC gets innovative with new workshops; save at RAC Parks and Resorts; and enter to win a Golden Quest Discovery Trail guidebook for WA’s Goldfields.

Some of Ireland’s most historic sites

65

We test drive the newest cars on the road

Discovering the Collie River Valley

Regulars

Travel

Move

7 President’s message A final farewell from Esme Bowen.

8 Mailbox

19 What’s on

12 RAC’s Annual Report

Events around the state.

A look back at the year.

35 The Collie River Valley

21 Perth public transport

Outdoor delights await.

Planning for the future.

Members’ letters.

40 Win a WA holiday

26 Electic vehicle guide

9 Exchange Sharing your views.

10 Snapshot News from the RAC.

82 The 10 best Walking trails for spring.

Coral Coast or the South West.

Common questions answered.

42 Ancient Ireland

57 What’s new

Discover the Emerald Isle.

The latest news in motoring.

51 Travel brief

59 Car doctor

News from RAC Travel.

Your questions answered.

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

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

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

October / November 2016 Horizons 5

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Giving back to you and WA That’s the power of membership

Everyday we give to you and our great state instead of taking to satisfy shareholders.

And we also give our members real benefits every second of every day, from discounts on fuel to savings on shopping, entertainment, holidays and more.

RINS0532_1

Join today at rac.com.au/membership The RAC Rescue helicopters are managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES)

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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 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 SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Wy. 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 Midland: Shop 100, Midland Gate Shopping Centre, 274 Great Eastern Hwy. tel: 6150 6468 Mandurah: Shop SP037 Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Wy. tel: 6150 6456 Morley: Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. tel: 6466 2300 West Perth: 832 Wellington St. tel: 9436 4830 Deaf, hearing or speech impaired members: Emergency Roadside Assistance SMS number 0434 182 877 All queries relayservice.gov.au 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 Corporate Enquiries 9436 4111

Reflecting on an important era of member advocacy and innovation It is my pleasure to write my last column as president of RAC, a proud Western Australian organisation, built by members for members.

Reflecting on my first column as president, I outlined that I was confident RAC would continue to play a leading role in helping to create a better Western Australia.

Creating a better WA has underpinned the delivery of key initiatives that build on RAC’s strategic mobility focus, ensuring our members can move around our state safely, easily and in a more sustainable way.

Tragically road trauma continues to impact families and communities in WA and this is why it has continued to be a priority for RAC – the reality is that too many people are killed or seriously injured on WA’s roads.

To raise awareness about road safety, RAC’s Elephant in the Wheatbelt campaign, launched in 2015, continues to generate important conversations about the unacceptably high rate of road fatalities in the Wheatbelt.

We have continued our focus on young drivers with our metropolitan bstreetsmart event and have introduced an event for regional schools. We have also launched the RAC Little Legends Club to bring road safety awareness to primary school students.

Our ongoing commitment to road safety also saw RAC become the sponsor of the second RAC Rescue helicopter, based in Bunbury. Over 90 per cent of our state’s population is now covered by the two RAC Rescue helicopters, which provide critical care medical services, essential hospital transfers and search-and-rescue services. RAC has proudly sponsored WA’s only 24/7 emergency rescue helicopter service since 2003.

While congestion and keeping our regional communities connected remain an ongoing challenge, RAC has worked hard

to represent members’ interests by striving to be innovative in our approach to our advocacy.

This has included stepping into the arena of driverless vehicles with the trial of Australia’s first fully electric, driverless shuttle bus. The autonomous bus is a key part of RAC’s plan to further trial autonomous vehicle technology.

We achieved an Australian first through the construction of the RAC Electric Highway®, which features a series of fast electric vehicle charging stations between Perth and Augusta. RAC funded the highway as part of its commitment to promoting more sustainable motoring and encouraging electric vehicle uptake.

Giving back to members through RAC’s advocacy initiatives, sponsorship and our member benefits continues to be at the heart of our organisation as it looks to build its future with members.

I would also like to acknowledge my colleagues on the RAC Council for their support over the past three years, as well as the work of all the amazing RAC people.

It has been my privilege to be your president and I would like to conclude by thanking our loyal members for your trust and support and to acknowledge the important work you do to strengthen RAC’s work in your own communities, and across our wonderful state. ●

Esme Bowen RAC President

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 Dennis Banks, Allan Blagaich, Freda Crucitti, Jill Darby, Ross Dowling, Dalton Gooding, Alden Halse, Stephanie Proud, Elizabeth Re, Emmerson Richardson, Tim Shanahan, Julie Wadley.

October / November 2016 Horizons 7

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Contact the editor

Mailbox

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

Join the discussion about the RAC and the magazine Clarification to ‘Right at the lights’

Our winning letter Starting road safety early Growing up in Perth, I remember my mum taking my brother and I to an educational facility for children to learn to be better road users. The facility, as I recall, was set up like a small suburb with roads, signs, etc. Does such a thing exist any more? I have been thinking about the lack of courtesy and anger shown by some drivers on the roads these days, vehicle to vehicle, vehicle to cyclist.

I feel positive I am a more aware road user, having been educated about cycling as a kid. There has been a huge resurgence in cycling of late, but a whole generation grew up without the opportunity to cycle, and hence, have less knowledge and experience of traffic when they move into adulthood and start driving cars. As a hexagenarian, I am back on my bike. I think I am more aware as a cyclist as I am also a car driver. It swings both ways.

Wendy Rae Sekuloff

RAC response: Through the Constable Care Child Safety Foundation, a facility will be opening in Maylands in 2017

where children can learn about road safety including cycling safety. The high-tech learning centre will recreate streets in detail. To find out more visit cccsf.org.au/ programs/safety-school

Memories of Ford Your article about Ford in Fremantle (Horizons August/ September) brought back many memories of Perth in those early days. The GMH assembly plant was just up the river from the Ford factory so the locals could drive around in a choice of locally assembled cars. At that time I was living in Sydney and making visits to supervise the installation of conveyors in the Ford plant. Flying was no picnic and it took forever to get from Sydney to Perth in a lumbering DC 6. We often talk of game changers and the introduction of jets such as the 727 was a factor in closing the cultural and physical gaps between Perth and the east coast.

John W Smith

Learning from overseas examples I read with concern the letter Dangerous debris manoeuvre (June/July Horizons) and

could feel the distress of the writer who had observed such dangerous actions (exiting the vehicle to remove freeway road debris) of a fellow motorist. It reminded me of a useful practice to alert fellow drivers to sudden braking in response to a hazard that I observed while travelling in Germany. When there is a need to brake suddenly, the driver applies the hazard lights as they are stopping for a short period. This signifies sudden, not gradual, braking. I was amazed at the speed of our friend who, upon observing a complete standstill ahead on the motorway, applied the hazard lights to warn fellow drivers behind. She appeared to do this without taking her eyes off the road. Many motorists in WA would struggle to locate the hazard light switch in their vehicle. Not only did the two lanes of traffic come to a complete standstill without any nose-to-tail incidents, they also courteously pulled to the outside of the lanes they were travelling in, allowing a clear ‘third’ lane between the two stationary lanes of traffic to allow emergency services to easily and safely traverse.

The ‘Right at the lights’ road rule featured on page 17 of the August/ September edition of Horizons provoked much discussion. This focused on the interpretation of a ‘blocked’ intersection, contained within Regulation 111 (1) of the WA Road Traffic Code. While there is room for discussion about interpretations, expert guidance from WA Police suggests that the first vehicle waiting to turn right can enter the intersection and wait for an opportunity to complete its right turn. The second vehicle, however, should wait behind the white line; this is because, for the second driver, the intersection is now blocked. RAC would like to thank all members who took the time to contact us regarding this issue.

WIN free roadside assistance for one year

Each issue, the author of the best letter will win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance that 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.

A Blunden

8 Horizons October / November 2016

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Exchange Feedback, opinion and fast facts RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

Are you aware of the new merge lines on Perth freeways?

YES 78% Do you believe they are working?

No 44% Yes 34% Not aware/haven’t used them 21%

HOW DOES YOUR CAR RATE?

★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★ ★

% 68

of car owners did not know the ANCAP star safety rating of their car RAC eNews poll, June 2016

facebook.com/racwa

twitter.com/racwa

PUBLIC TRANSPORT V CARS

03:00

01:00

Almost two-thirds of Perth residents need more than three hours to reach any destination in the metro area by public transport but only one hour by car.

See page 21 for the full story.

Transport Accessibility of Perth’s Activity Centres, RAC 2016

RAC ONLINE POLL

Tell us …

Should road rules be changed to allow Segways to be used on shared paths across WA?

Take our poll at rac.com.au/exchange Poll closes 17 October 2016

Exchange your views by email: editor@rac.com.au October / November 2016 Horizons 9

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

Snapshot News in brief from the RAC & beyond

Mr Greenall said it wasn’t always a case of simply flying to the scene and descending; there were many factors that added risk and complication to a rescue mission.

“Anything that requires hovering above moving objects is always difficult,” Mr Greenall said.

“Night time and poor weather add to complications. In fact, the weather and night time [conditions] probably add the greatest complications in terms of skills and planning.”

Mr Greenall said the types of rescue operations performed by both the Perth and Bunbury-based helicopters are very similar and added that motor vehicle accidents are the predominant rescue type.

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

Road trauma support

Managing risky rescues Western Australia’s second RAC Rescue helicopter, launched earlier this year and based in Bunbury, will not only service South West and Great Southern communities, but will also allow the current Perth-based service to better respond to incidents in the Wheatbelt and Mid West Gascoyne regions.

Former base manager and pilot with the Perth-based RAC Rescue helicopter operation, Andy Greenall, relocated to Bunbury to take on the same role with the new South West-based service.

Mr Greenall’s involvement in search-andrescue operations began with the Royal Australian Navy and continued into civilian services where he has been involved in search, rescue and emergency medical services since 1997.

Mr Greenall has spent 12 years with the RAC Rescue helicopter.

As base manager he manages the day-to-day operations of the base and the team that works there. As a pilot, he is responsible for flying the RAC Rescue helicopter safely and efficiently – often into challenging environments –and giving the crew and paramedic the best chance of reaching and aiding those in distress.

Road Trauma Support WA (RTSWA) provides free information, support, counselling and prevention education to those affected by road trauma, including anyone injured or involved in a crash, those dealing with a bereavement, family, carers and friends or those who may have caused a road trauma.

It is the first service of its kind in WA providing dedicated road trauma support.

RTSWA is a not-for-profit support and counselling service provided by the Injury Control Council of WA, with funding from the Road Trauma Trust Account.

To find out more about the services offered visit rtswa.org.au, call 9420 7262, Freecall 1300 004 814 or email admin@rtswa.org.au.

10 Horizons October / November 2016

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Snapshot

Can your music choice affect your driving?

Music can both soothe and inflame, but do music-influenced mood changes impact how you drive?

To find out, researchers at a university in Israel recruited 85 young drivers, who each drove six challenging 40-minute road trips, accompanied by a driver instructor.

The in-car ambience was varied between silence, easy-listening and fast-paced music with vocals. Each trip was measured by in-car data recorders.

When drivers chose their own fast-paced music, they made more errors than when they drove without music, but easy-listening music was associated with the lowest level of driver errors.

Drivers tended to play their own music louder and turned the volume down while listening to the blend of easy-listening, soft rock and light jazz.

Bushfire season: Are you at risk?

The bushfires in January that devastated the communities of Yarloop and Harvey were a stark reminder of how this common natural hazard can not only sweep through our vast bushlands but also reach into the heart of our streets and towns.

A total of 180 homes were destroyed in Yarloop, 70,000 hectares of bush, forest and farmland was burnt and tragically two people lost their lives.

For the southern half of Western Australia, including Perth, late spring marks the start of bushfire season. Now is the time for all residents in bushfire-prone areas to ensure their homes and properties are prepared for bushfire season and that they have a survival plan in place in the event of a fire emergency.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services recommends you: ● Create a 20m building protection zone around your home and other buildings. ● Maintain a minimum two-metre gap between trees and your home, and prune lower branches. ● Keep grass short, prune shrubs and trees and clear gutters and roofs of leaves. ● Ensure hoses can reach all corners of your house.

For more about bushfire preparation, including how to identify if you’re at risk, download the bushfire factsheet from RAC Insurance at rac.com.au/bushfires.

LPG declining in popularity Low overall petrol prices, increasing LPG prices and improvements in the fuel efficiency of modern vehicles are some of the reasons LPG is declining in popularity as a vehicle fuel in Australia.

Other factors include the introduction in recent years of an excise on LPG, which is 12.5 cents per litre.

The declining popularity of large six-cylinder Australian-built cars, including dedicated LPG vehicles, is also behind the fall.

Further, the withdrawal of state and federal government grants for LPG conversions has contributed to fewer vehicles being converted to run on LPG.

Due to the declining market for LPG, some suppliers have found it uneconomic to maintain their LPG infrastructure.

As a result, RAC members have reported a decline in the fuel’s availability, particularly in regional areas of WA. RAC advises motorists with vehicles that depend on LPG to check the fuel’s availability when they are planning their journeys, particularly in regional WA. Motorists are advised to contact fuel retailers along their planned route to check if they are still selling LPG, as online information may not be sufficiently up to date. These checks should be made shortly before departure.

October / November 2016 Horizons 11

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Report top to bottom: One of the RAC Rescue helicopters; RAC’s Intellibus™; RAC Group CEO Terry Agnew and RAC President Esme Bowen.

RAC’s 2015-16 Annual Report It is our pleasure to report on the activities of RAC over the past 12 months.

RAC has placed a strong focus this year on giving back to members and has continued to invest in the benefits and services it provides. The overall profit after tax for the year ended 30 June 2016 was $30.3 million.

This past year has provided RAC with a great opportunity to reflect on our place in WA history. To mark the end of our 110th year, we inducted a new member into the RAC Walk of Fame – Dr Ken Michael AC. Dr Michael has worked tirelessly in his field for better mobility in WA and it was an honour to be able to recognise his work.

This year also marked the 90th anniversary of the introduction of our Roadside Assistance service. This service has evolved over its 90 years and has come a long way since starting out as motorcycles with side cars that carried enough equipment to fix a flat tyre. Now, RAC Roadside Assistance undertakes almost 400,000 rescues in WA each year.

Through our focus on giving back, RAC has added significant new benefits for members, including a 50 per cent discount on the most popular passes to the State’s national parks and reserves. This exciting member benefit aims to encourage Western Australians to get outdoors and explore their own state.

In addition to this, RAC has invested further in holiday accommodation for members. Adding to our existing RAC Parks and Resorts family of the Ningaloo Reef Resort, Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort and Pinnacles Holiday Park, RAC has also purchased Busselton’s BIG4 Peppermint Park – now known as RAC Busselton Holiday Park.

This acquisition builds on RAC’s goal to provide members with good quality and affordable holiday accommodation

in key tourism destinations around WA, and provide them with the opportunity to holiday in their own backyard.

In January, RAC was proud to be named as the sponsor of Western Australia’s second dedicated rescue helicopter – a further investment in saving lives and assisting with serious injuries.

Joining the existing Perth-based RAC Rescue helicopter, the helicopters operate together as the state’s only dedicated 24hour emergency rescue helicopter service.

They help to provide medical assistance, which is not always immediately on hand.

The RAC Rescue helicopters are managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and we acknowledge the State Government for delivering this important regional service. RAC is proud to have sponsored the Perth-based rescue helicopter since 2003.

Our Community Sponsorships program continues to grow. Since the program began in 2011, it has delivered more

than $1.4 million back to the WA community through a range of programs and initiatives.

We also continue to work for safer, easier and more sustainable ways for members to move around their community.

United with other motoring clubs across Australia, RAC called for investment to help ‘Keep Australia Moving’, looking specifically at additional rail projects, real innovation through investment in the technology needed to deliver a smarter transport network and investment in regional transport infrastructure.

The latest independent analysis to RAC regarding federal road funding shows for every dollar Canberra collects from WA motorists, only 48 cents is being returned in funding for the state’s road network. This is a trend that has continued under successive Federal Governments.

Looking to the future of motoring and how we are able to move around our communities, RAC has purchased and is trialling an autonomous shuttle bus – the RAC Intellibus™ – to better understand how this technology could work in our city. This is an Australian-first trial of a fully electric, fully driverless bus and our goal has been to deliver a real trial, for real people, on real roads.

This purposeful trial is still in the early stages but these are exciting times for our state and RAC. As new technology emerges, RAC aims to be at the forefront to represent members and understand the best possible mobility outcomes; just as we have done throughout our history.

RAC is a proud WA membership organisation. Over the past year it has been a pleasure to again work with a committed RAC Council and senior leadership team. We would also like to acknowledge the commitment of all RAC people, and to thank RAC members for your ongoing support. l For a copy of the concise annual report visit rac.com.au/annualreport or call 9436 4389.

12 Horizons October / November 2016

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Innovation

Australia’s first driverless bus is on the open road Australia’s first fully driverless and electric shuttle bus, the RAC Intellibus™, commenced the on-road stage of its trial on 31 August in South Perth. for driverless vehicles to safely transition on to our roads and become an integrated part of our transport system.

“The RAC Intellibus, which can transport up to 11 passengers and will operate at an average speed of 25km per hour, will make RAC members and the broader WA community some of the first people in the world to experience a driverless vehicle in action.”

City of South Perth Mayor Sue Doherty said the South Perth foreshore was a superb location for the trial.

The RAC Intellibus™ will carry passengers and interact with traffic, parked cars, cyclists and pedestrians as it travels along South Perth Esplanade between the Old Mill, near the Narrows Bridge, and Sir James Mitchell Park.

Since the shuttle’s arrival in WA in April, RAC has been working with the State Government, specialist technicians and the vehicle manufacturer NAVYA to undertake significant testing of the shuttle in a closed environment.

RAC Group Chief Executive Officer Terry Agnew said Western Australia is leading the way in exploring the possibilities of driverless vehicle technology, with the RAC Intellibus™ trial set to be the first in the country, and among the first in the world.

“This trial is an Australian-first, and will be a real trial incorporating members of the public travelling on public roads,” he said.

“We anticipate this first step in exploring driverless technology will start a conversation on further trials, research and collaboration, which will increase WA’s understanding of how driverless vehicles can integrate into our transport system.

“The trial will help WA develop a roadmap of changes that will need to occur

46%

believe driverless technology will result in less traffic congestion

70%

believe driverless technology will give more freedom to those with mobility difficulties

“The City of South Perth is pleased to offer support to this joint initiative of the RAC and the State Government. In the future, this innovative form of public transport has the potential to help alleviate traffic congestion by reducing the number of vehicles on the road, and at the same time having a positive impact on the environment.”

RAC recently surveyed almost 1000 Western Australians on how they feel about driverless technology, with almost half (46 per cent) saying they think it will result in less traffic congestion; 70 per cent saying it will give more freedom and independence to the ageing and those with mobility difficulties; and more than half (53 per cent) saying it will result in fewer car crashes and reduce severity of crashes.

A further 60 per cent said it will mean daily travel time can be used more effectively and productively doing other activities. l

More information available online at racintellibus.com.au.

53%

believe driverless technology will result in fewer car crashes and reduce severity

60%

believe driverless technology will result in travel time being used more efficiently and productively

October / November 2016 Horizons 13

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8/09/2016 4:40 PM

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NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The 111th Annual General Meeting of the Royal Automobile Club :SEGA KCAP of Western Australia (Incorporated) (RAC) NOStreet, SREP REP 931$ ► 2 ROF 354$ ROF EGA KCwill AP be NOheld ITADatORAC MMOHead CCA Office ► 832 Wellington West Perth, 7pm on Monday 21 November 2016.

8 FO ELBAT 211,1$ ► BUSINESS 1.

7773 3759 :HP

To declare the 2016 Annual General Meeting open.

2. To table the Notice of Meeting.

3. To receive apologies.

4. To table the minutes of the 2015 Annual General Meeting.

11. To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolution as a special resolution to amend the Rules:

3.

an offence under Part 4, Division 3 or section 127 of the Act; or

ua.moc.ollaba4.ivclhas e.been wwdisqualifi w ed from

Resolution 2 That Rule 2.1, Definitions is amended by inserting the words underlined below: “Commissioner has the meaning given to it in the Act.”

( )

managing corporations under the Corporations Act 2001;

( iii.)

is elected as a member of an Australian state, territory or federal parliament;

CISSALC OTUA

5. To table the report of the President.

6. To table the accounts of the RAC for the year ended 30 June, 2016.

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, 2016.

hsitirb

That Rule 7.2 is amended by deleting the words struck out below and inserting the words underlined below:

(iv.)

“7.2(d) A Member who:

( i.)

is, according to the Interpretation Act 1984 section 13D, or has been a bankrupt under the law of Australia, its external territories or another country or whose affairs are under insolvency laws, without leave of the Commissioner;

6102 AZNAGAVARTXE

8. Declaration of election of President and Senior Vice President.

( v.)

on and from the conclusion of the 2017 Annual General Meeting, is elected as a member of a governing body, of a local government in an Australian state or territory; or does not meet any requirement specified in the By-Laws,

is not eligible to be nominated for election, elected or re-elected as a Councillor.

rebotcO 03 nuS & 92 taS

9. Declaration of election of five (5) members to the Council by the Returning Officer.

( ii.)

has made or makes any arrangement or composition with their creditors;

(e) Rule 7.2(d)(ii) applies in relation to a Member’s conviction of an offence only for the period of 5 years:

ESRUOC FLOG OLLABAC LE DNA TROSER OLLABAC LE TA

10. To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolution as a special 0person’s ( i.)

04 revO from the time of the (iii.)(ii) (ii) without leave of the (iii) resolution to amend the Rules of the conviction; or sraC cissalC Commissioner has been Royal Automobile Club of Western convicted, Australia (the :snoit(Incorporated) cartta derip sn“Rules”): i ’HS ITIRB LLA‘ gn irutaef within tnemornoutside iatretnthe e fo dnek( ii.e) ewif the A conviction results in a term State, of: any offence punishable of imprisonment, from the time Resolutions1wohs etubirt yessaB yelrihS dna seltaeby B eimprisonment; hT ,senoJ moT – strecnoC roodtuO • of the person’s release from R yamended noP EERF nidulcni - renroC sdiK htiw tnemniatretne yldneirf ylimaF • custody.”

That Rule 7.2se (a)dibe byginserting suoirav morf 1. an indictable offence in the words underlined below: s l l a tS tekraM stfarC dna strA 001 revo dna eniW dna dooF temruoG • raC hsitirB relation to the promotion, Rule the pihsSubject noipmato hcrule ytil7.2(d), igA go d s’ tfurC dna sgoD gnicn aD ,yalpor siDmanagement esroH gnicnofaD naThat i s ul a dnA13.1 • is amended bysdeleting bulc the formation “7.2(a) only words struck out below and inserting s r e c n a d d n a l h g i H d n a s d n a B e p i P h s i t t o c S , s r e c n a D s i r r o M • a body corporate; or Members who are at least 18 years words underlined below: wohS rMembers iA bulC oreA layoR dna dnaB gniwS ymrA ailartsuA • of age, have been Voting 2. an offence involving fraud and entitled to vote for each of the :SSAP YAD 1 :SSAP YAD 2 or dishonesty punishable by preceding 5 years are entitled to 02$ renoisneP .52$ tludA 21$ renoisneP .51$ tludA imprisonment for a period of hold office.”

EERF :51 rednu dlihC htiw EERF :51 rednu dlihC not less than 3 months; or tludA gniyap lluf htiw tludA gniyap lluf

!DNEKEEW ’HSITIRB‘ YREV A

YALPSID NO HT03 YADNUS

7773 3759 :sliated lluf dna sgnikooB ua.moc.aznagavartxecissalcotuahsitirb.www

October / November 2016 Horizons 15

14-17_AGM notice and rules.indd 15

8/09/2016 12:24 PM

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING continued “13.1 Casual Vacancy ( a.)

If any Councillor: ( i.)

dies;

( ii.)

resigns;

( iii.)

becomes disqualified from holding a position on Council under rule 7.2(d)(i) or 7.2(d)(ii) bankrupt;

( iv.)

makes any arrangement or composition with the Councillor’s creditors;

( v.)

is convicted of any offence pubishable by imprisonment;

( vi.)

is disqualified from managing corporations under the Corporations Act 2001;

( ) fails to meet any requirement (iv) (vii)vii. specified in the By-Laws; ( (v)) is absent from 3 consecutive (viii)viii. meetings without leave of absence having been granted by the Council;

12. To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolution as a special resolution to amend the Rules:

Resolution 3 That Rule 10.3 is amended by deleting the word struck out below: “10.3 Notice of General Meetings Unless a longer period is required by the Act, at least 7 clear days’ notice of a General Meeting must be given to all Voting Members.”

13. To consider, and if thought fit, to pass the following resolution as a special resolution to amend the Rules:

Resolution 4 That Rule 11.2 be amended by deleting the words struck out below and inserting the words underlined below:

( ) ceases to be a Member for any (vi) (ix)ix. reason;

x. (vii)

Councillors are elected for a 3 year period which: ( i.)

commences from the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting at which they are elected under rule 11.4(a) or deemed elected or re-elected; and

( ii.)

ends at the third following Annual General Meeting,

is elected as a member of an Australian state, territory or federal parliament ;

( xi.) on and from the conclusion (viii) of the 2017 Annual General Meeting, is elected as a member of a governing body of a local government in an Australian state or territory; or ( xii. ) is removed from office under (x) (ix) rule 13.3(a),

the Councillor’s office immediately becomes vacant and may be filled by the Council.”

Explanation for Rule Changes The RAC is proposing to make some changes to its Rules, mainly in respect of the eligibility requirements for holding office and for being a Councillor of RAC. The amendments in Rule 7.2(a) set out a minimum age requirement of 18 years of age for holding office.

The amendments in Rules 7.2(d) and 13.1 are to align the Rules with the eligibility requirements of the new Associations Incorporation Act 2015 (New Act).

(“Term”). ( b.)

If a Councillor’s Term is due to expire at the next Annual General Meeting, but the Councillor: ( i.)

is the President Elect or Senior Vice-President Elect;

In addition, a rule is being proposed which provides that a Member is not eligible to be a Councillor, and a Councillor’s role becomes vacant, if they are elected as a member of parliament (state, territory or federal). At the conclusion of the 2017 Annual General Meeting this will also extend to any elected members of local government to allow sitting Councillors to serve out their remaining term. RAC serves a strong public advocacy role and strives to remain apolitical.

will at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting be a Director of the Australian Automobile Association; or

( iii.)

will at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting cease to be the President because their term as President has expired,

the Councillor is not required to retire and is deemed re-elected with effect from the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting for a further Term. ( c.)

Subject to rule 7.2(d) these Rules, a retiring Councillor is eligible for re-election.

( d.)

Subject to rules 11.2(e) and (f), a Councillor must not hold office for a period of 12 years or more (on a continuous basis).

( e.)

The calculation of the 12 year period referred to in rule 11.2(d) for all Councillors commences on the date of the 2017 Annual General Meeting, regardless of the number of years a Councillor has held office prior to this date.

( f.)

The Council may extend the 12 year period set out in rule 11.2(d) for any Councillor up to a maximum of three years.”

“11.2 Term on the Council (a.)

( ii.)

14. Questions.

15. Close of Meeting.

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

The amendment to Rule 10.3 ensures that the notice of a General Meeting is sent to all Members, which complies with the requirements of the New Act and is consistent with good governance practices.

Rule 11.2 is being amended to set a maximum term on Council, which is consistent with good governance practices.

The calculation of the maximum term commences from the 2017 Annual General Meeting, regardless of the number of years a Councillor has held office prior to that date.

16 Horizons October / November 2016

14-17_AGM notice and rules.indd 16

8/09/2016 12:24 PM

HEARING AIDS STARTING FROM $1300 EACH

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Pictured: Alban Gerhardt

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Principal Conductor Asher Fisch is joined by one of the world’s greatest singers, Australian tenor Stuart Skelton (pictured), for a hand-picked selection of Wagner arias. Tickets from $30*

Visit waso.com.au

Asher Fisch appears courtesy of Wesfarmers Arts. Alban Gerhardt appears courtesy of Singapore Airlines. *A one-off handling fee of $5.50 per transaction applies to all purchases.

An additional fee of $4.40 per transaction applies for delivery via Registered Post.

058 RAC FP October v3.indd 1 18-19_WhatsOn.indd 18

24/08/2016 2:19 PM 8/09/2016 12:26 PM

What’s on

 Events around the state in October and November Great Aussie Camp Out

2016 AWESOME Festival 1–14 October Perth Cultural Centre One of Perth’s premier family arts events, Awesome Festival features a range of artistic and cultural offerings for the whole family.

8 October Join thousands of Australians for one big night of camping out under the stars, in our great national parks, on a river bank, at a recreation camp, or at a caravan park.

awesomearts.com

greataussiecampout.org.au

Quinninup Annual Market Day and Wine Tasting

The Beverley Heroic

quinninup.net.au

The Pearl Fishers 25 October–5 November His Majesty’s Theatre West Australian Opera presents The Pearl Fishers, a picture of paradise, golden sands and colourful silks where three people are linked by conflicting bonds of loyalty and attraction.

theheroic.com.au Image: theheroic.com.au

2 October Quinninup Community Centre and Oval Enjoy a family day out 30km south of Manjimup with a variety of children’s activities, including a climbing wall and bungee air trampolines. A range of stalls featuring local arts and crafts and plenty of food options, including doughnuts by the local fire brigade, are on offer.

8–9 October Beverley Embrace the historical and sporting side of the Wheatbelt during the Beverley Heroic cycle race. Thought to be the toughest race in Australia, it ran from 1897 to 1999. In this iteration, riders of all abilities can enjoy quiet roads, riverside riding, and checkpoints in historic towns.

waopera.asn.au

Margaret River Gourmet Escape 18–20 November Leeuwin Estate Winery and surrounding venues

British celebrity chef Nigella Lawson will head the line-up of over 40 top food and wine personalities at the annual foodie festival. Visitors can look forward to live cooking demonstrations, dinners, intimate master classes, Q&A sessions and book signings. gourmetescape.com.au

Fawlty Towers – Live on Stage 17 November–18 December Regal Theatre, Subiaco The world premiere tour of Fawlty Towers – Live on Stage sees Stephen Hall play the role of Basil Fawlty, with Blazey Best co-starring as Sybil Fawlty. fawltytowerslive.com.au

Gooseberry Hill Art & Craft Exhibition 19–20 November Kalamunda View and purchase unique art and handmade crafts created by local artisans on display at the Kalamunda Agricultural Hall. gooseberryhillartscraftsgroup. weebly.com

Unknown Land: Mapping and Imagining Western Australia Until 30 January 2017 Art Gallery of Western Australia This exhibition maps WA’s story of European exploration, looking at how early artists and explorers saw Western Australia.

It features pieces from the State Art Collection as well as many loan works. artgallery.wa.gov.au October / November 2016 Horizons 19

18-19_WhatsOn.indd 19

9/09/2016 2:12 PM

AN EXPEDITION LIKE NO OTHER THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE FROM DARWIN TO ADELAIDE

The Ghan, MacDonnell Ranges

Ubirr, Kakadu National Park

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The Ghan, Queen Adelaide Restaurant

OUTBACK TO OCEANS DAR W I N TO AD E LAI D E

5349

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JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS • 3 NIGHTS’ 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION IN DARWIN • 2 DAY/1 NIGHT KAKADU NATIONAL PARK AND EAST ALLIGATOR RIVER TOUR • 4 DAYS/3 NIGHTS ABOARD THE GHAN EXPEDITION IN GOLD SERVICE INCLUDING ALL MEALS, BEVERAGES AND OFF TRAIN EXCURSIONS IN KATHERINE, ALICE SPRINGS AND COOBER PEDY • 4 NIGHTS’ 5 STAR ACCOMMODATION IN ADELAIDE • 1 DAY BAROSSA FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE TOUR • 2 DAY/1 NIGHT BEST OF KANGAROO ISLAND TOUR

expeditiOn Fares based on The Ghan Expedition Gold Service Advance Purchase per person twin share. For new bookings from 01 October until 31 December 2016 for travel from 03 May to 25 October 2017. Advance Purchase fares are subject to availability at time of booking and may not be available on the first date requested. In order to receive the Advance Purchase fare, bookings must be made a minimum of 6 months prior to departure. Full payment of the rail component is required within 14 days of booking. 100% cancellation fees apply to the rail component 14 days after booking date and the rail component is non-transferable and non-refundable. Advertised price is subject to availability at the time of booking and may not be available on the first date requested.Blockout dates may apply. Additional Surcharges apply between 16-18 June 2017 and 05-07 August 2017. Booking and credit card fees may apply. Not available with any other offer. For booking and travel conditions please visit www.greatsouthernrail.com.au ATAS number A11591 0816.

20-25_PUBTRANS.indd 20

8/09/2016 12:28 PM

urchase prior to able and 18 June 1 0816.

Transport

Words Chris Sheedy

Public transport accessibility in Perth

P

Perth will grow rapidly to a population of over 3.5 million by 2050.

RAC’s comprehensive study into transport accessibility shows public transport must expand around Perth’s activity centres to provide better transport options and keep the city moving.

erth has already made some steps towards safeguarding its high-growth future, but as the population heads towards 3.5 million over the next few decades, a lot more must be done. This includes improving the efficiency of public transport networks, and further developing strategic activity hubs to ensure people have access to a range of transport options and don’t have to

travel so far in the first place.

Due to the sprawled nature of our suburbs, our roads are becoming increasingly congested, particularly routes to and from the Perth’s Central Business District (CBD) where the majority of jobs are located. It has been predicted

by Infrastructure Australia that by 2031 seven of Australia’s 10 most congested road corridors will be in Perth – meaning our roads could suffer gridlock worse

than Sydney or Melbourne – and this congestion will cost Western Australia over $16 billion annually.

People will also increasingly feel the impact of congestion as it continues to take time away from their daily lives.

As part of the planning for the future of Perth’s transport systems, RAC commissioned the Planning and Transport Research Centre (PATREC) to undertake a comprehensive study looking October / November 2016 Horizons 21

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Transport

specifically at Perth’s ‘activity centres’, as identified in strategic documents the State Government has developed for the planning of Perth. Activity centres are areas where future growth is proposed to be located and include a combination of offices, retail, higher-density housing, entertainment, community centres, education and medical services.

Decentralising jobs to suburban activity centres is a key strategy in the response to Perth’s congestion challenge. Providing opportunities for people to work closer to where they live, and reducing the need for travel to the CBD on a daily basis, will allow for growth but release pressure on the CBD and connecting transport networks.

“In 2013 we undertook analysis exploring how the state was tracking against targets set by the government to encourage decentralisation, or more localised employment,” says Sarah Macaulay, RAC Manager Transport Planning. “This showed that only one out of six sub-regions in the metropolitan Perth and Peel region is on track to meet the targets by 2031.

“As the activity centres will be the focus of such growth in the sub-regions, we started looking at how development of these centres could be encouraged.

While many factors influence where people and businesses chose to locate, areas that are more easily accessible by a range of transport options, including

“Less than 20 per cent of Perth residents can reach any destination in the metropolitan area within one hour by public transport. Two-thirds of residents would require over three hours by public transport for a trip that would take one hour or less in a car.”

public transport, are more attractive places to live, to do business and to work. So we embarked on this project to look at how accessibility by car and public transport compared for the activity centres,” Ms Macaulay says.

Safeguarding mobility Over one-third of Perth residents (35 per cent) travel 10 to 20km for work or study and a further 30 per cent travel more than 20 kilometres. These trips are mostly during peak hour and many are made by car. Plans to provide opportunities for people to work or study closer to where they live involve increasing accessibility to such areas.

Such plans around where and how growth should take place are outlined in the recently released draft Perth and Peel@3.5 million suites of documents.

The study commissioned by RAC explored car and public transport accessibility of the proposed growth areas.

On a very basic level, the results showed a broad variation in access by public transport across the Perth metropolitan area. Access by car is consistently quicker and easier than public transport.

Based on the analysis, less than 20 per cent of Perth residents can reach any destination in the metropolitan area within one hour by public transport. In fact, two-thirds of residents would require over three hours by public transport to reach any destination but one hour or less to do so by car.

“While this is a surprising comparison, it is important to remember that not everyone wants to travel everywhere and public transport will never be able to provide the same level of access across the entire metropolitan area as the car,” Ms Macaulay says. “In your car you, as an individual, can travel anywhere you want to, whenever you want. That’s not the role of public transport. Public transport should provide access to destinations groups of people need to be able to access, like areas of employment or other major destinations.

Our analysis of the accessibility of Perth’s activity centres has considered both the coverage of the road and public transport networks and the spread of jobs and

22 Horizons October / November 2016

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Transport Average travel time by public transport

City of Wanneroo

Average travel time to an area from all other areas (AM peak)

Clarkson

City of Joondalup

City of Swan

City of Bayswater City of Stirling

Shire of Mundaring

Midland

City of Belmont Shire of Kalamunda Fremantle

City of Gosnells City of Cockburn

Armadale

City of Armadale

Town of Kwinana

Shire of Serpentine − Jarrahdale City of Rockingham

Average travel time by public transport

City of Wanneroo

Average travel time to an area from all other areas (AM peak)

City of Mandurah

1 - 2 hours

Clarkson

2 - 3 hours

Mandurah

of alup

City of Swan

Shire of Murray

3 - 4 hours > 4 hours Local government area boundaries Passenger rail network

City of Bayswater

ty of irling

Midland

20-25_PUBTRANS.indd 23

City of Belmont

Shire of Mundaring

0

people across the metropolitan area.”

When it comes to how easily people 1 - 2 hours can access Perth’s 34 strategic, 2 - 3 hours and specialised activity secondary centres for work, the analysis has shown 3 - 4 hours the centres generally exhibit low levels 4 hourstransport accessibility. Thirteen of>public can be government reached by less than five per Local areaofboundaries cent Perth residents within 45 minutes byPassenger public transport, but 42 per cent can rail network make it in that time by car.

However, there are some exceptions to the rule, with 12 centres having been identified as having high accessibility by public transport. Six of these are lower-order secondary activity centres and have better access by public transport than some of the strategic metropolitan centres. Leederville and Subiaco, which are both secondary centres, have the highest level of public transport accessibility.

The analysis has also shown that other areas, such as many train station precincts (based on 2km boundaries around the stations) have much higher public transport accessibility than the existing activity centres. Eight station precincts can be reached by more than 17 per cent of residents within 45 minutes by public transport, which currently only one activity centre achieves (Leederville).

“The analysis has shown a lot of the activity centres have relatively low public transport accessibility,” Ms Macaulay says. “This raises some questions.

Are these centres going to be able to develop into attractive places to live, work or do business without good access by public transport? If we do seek to develop these centres but don’t support them with public transport, will the car be the only viable transport option for many people? If public transport is not an option, then we’re just shifting the problem from routes connecting to the CBD and adding to localised traffic issues. Our analysis has also highlighted the importance of activity centres being developed around or within close proximity to train stations.

“We want to see the prioritisation of areas that already have good public transport accessibility, because a lot of

6

12

18

24

October / November 2016 Horizons 23

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Transport

“The way cities and transport systems are planned significantly influences the amount, and way, people travel,” Ms Macaulay says.

“RAC is ultimately calling for better transport options and improved access to local jobs, services and amenities so people have choices about how, when and why they travel. To achieve this, future planning for Perth needs to ensure an increased focus on the creation of highly accessible activity centres which are truly attractive places to live, work, do business and play,” Ms Macaulay says. l

The three main outcomes from the RAC report are:

the necessary investment has already been made in those areas. Changes to timetabling, enhanced coordination of public transport services and other strategies to optimise the network could enhance the accessibility of these areas further, reducing the need for significant infrastructure investment. Then when planning new infrastructure, we need to be trying to improve access to those really important activity centres that have the potential to develop.”

Moving forward Better travel options benefit everybody in a city. People moving freely around a city do the same job as blood moving freely around a body – they keep the city healthy and vibrant. It’s no coincidence that a city’s transport corridors are referred to as ‘arteries’. When blockages form, the city and its people suffer.

RAC’s report, titled Transport accessibility of Perth’s activity centres, contains several recommendations to protect the city’s ‘health’ by providing individuals with a choice of efficient transport modes. It begins with action being taken right now to create activity centres that are truly attractive to people and businesses.

The recommendations all require

greater focus on public transport and the need to support the development of Perth’s activity centres as a priority when making planning decisions. Major infrastructure projects and new land use developments require long lead times, so decisions made in the shorter term become even more important.

Better travel options benefit everybody in a city. People moving freely around a city do the same job as blood moving freely around a body – they keep the city healthy and vibrant.

1) The need to ensure adequate funding is committed to deliver an ambitious transport plan to support the level of population and job growth forecast for Perth. Without this, the recently released draft Perth Transport Plan for 3.5 million people and beyond will remain aspirational and industry and the community will continue to lack the certainty they require to make their own informed decisions about their futures.

2) Areas that already have a high level of public transport accessibility should be prioritised in the short term as they present immediate opportunities.

While much of the hard work in these areas is done in terms of transport infrastructure and services, there needs to be an increased focus on bringing people and businesses in to create true activity centres. Plans and policies at all levels should have as a goal the provision of the best possible conditions to facilitate appropriate land use and development in these locations.

3) Now that we know many of Perth’s activity centres have poor public transport access, if we are committed to developing these centres, we will need accelerated investment in public transport including heavy rail, light rail, bus rapid transit and local bus services. Amid funding constraints, more investment focus must be given to public transport to allow activity centre accessibility levels to be similar to the CBD, and to prevent Perth’s roads from becoming the most gridlocked in the nation.

24 Horizons October / November 2016

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It’s the Little Battler with a Big Heart… every time!

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ike any Torana driver knows, when you’re hot, you’re… wearing the official “Holden Torana Men’s Watch”, exclusively from The Bradford Exchange!

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October / November 2016 Horizons 25

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Motoring

Words Lucy Siebert

ESSENTIAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE GUIDE What’s involved with running an electric vehicle (EV)? We tackle some commonly asked questions about EV ownership.

Electric cars worldwide are growing in popularity, with recent research suggesting electric cars could be cheaper to own than conventional cars by 2022.

The report by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), which was released earlier in 2016, highlights that the cost of batteries, which is declining, will be a major factor in taking EVs from being niche to mainstream. The report forecasts that 35 per cent of global new car sales – 41 million a year – will be EVs in 2040, with one in four cars being an EV. “There are few incentives offered in Australia for electric vehicle ownership and as a result the uptake of electric vehicles has been slower when compared with other countries. But this is changing and we are seeing a surge in interest in EVs,” says RAC General Manager Policy and Research, Anne Still.

To help you gain a better understanding of EVs, we’ve tackled some common questions about owning and running one:

What are the main benefits of EVs? EVs have zero tailpipe emissions. Day-today running costs are much cheaper and they require less annual maintenance.

Are EVs more expensive to buy?

EVs are pricier due to the cost of manufacturing the batteries and because the market for EVs globally is relatively small. But the good news is battery costs are starting to come down, so purchase costs are also starting to fall.

Is the interior of an EV like a regular car? EVs are designed to be as easy to operate as possible, which means their basic controls will be largely familiar to anyone who’s driven a regular automatic vehicle. The gear lever and dashboard may be slightly different in their function and appearance. All pure EVs have automatic transmissions.

What financial incentives do EV owners receive? In Australia there is little financial support available to EV owners. Victoria is the only state to incentivise EV ownership through a $100 registration rebate. This lack of incentives is part of the reason why EVs have been slower to take off in Australia than elsewhere. Chris Jones of the WA

branch of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, estimates there are currently about 3000 EVs on Australian roads, while Ms Still says there are about 150 registered EV drivers in WA, compared with 100,000 in the UK (as of March 2016).

What about EV registration costs?

In WA, car registration is based on weight – regardless of whether it has an electric or combustible engine. EVs tend to be heavy vehicles due to the battery.

How are EVs charged?

There are different ways to charge an EV: 1. Power sockets (General purpose outlets): Most EVs can be charged from a common 10 or 15 amp power socket using the adaptor provided.

The drawback of this method is that it can take longer to charge the battery.

2. AC home chargers: Most EV owners install a Level 2 AC charger in their homes which operate at around 30 amps and can charge a vehicle from empty in approximately a few hours. Mr Jones says: “We always encourage EV owners to get a charging point installed in their garage.

You will need a qualified electrician to do this. It requires a wall box with a specific plug on it and the box.”

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Motoring

3. Public chargers: There are an increasing number of locations that offer public charging, such as shopping centres.

Most are AC chargers similar to in-home units, or there are rapid DC chargers that can charge an EV up to 80 per cent in under 30 minutes. The RAC Electric Highway® is Australia’s first network of public DC fast charging stations.

Fremantle Fremantle

Where are there public charging stations in WA? There are charging stations along Australia’s first electric highway – the RAC Electric Highway® – between Perth and Augusta. Drivers can recharge a battery to 80 per cent capacity at these stations in less than 30 minutes.

See the RAC Electric Highway® map (right) for more details. There are also many other public charging stations around WA. For locations visit plugshare.com.

Dunsborough Dunsborough

Donnybrook Donnybrook

How far can an EV be driven on a charge? “Range anxiety” is a common concern for potential EV owners.

An EV’s range depends on that model’s specifications. While the Tesla Model S has a range of 480km on a single charge, most EVs can easily travel about 160km on a single charge. Mr Jones says first-time EV owners should ensure they buy a car that is suitable for the distances they most frequently drive.

How often do EVs need to be charged? This depends on how far an EV is driven per day. The average Australian drives 40km a day, which would require a charge every two or three days.

How much does it cost to charge an EV? The average cost of domestic electricity is about $0.25 per kilowatt hour, so if charging at home it would cost about $4.50 to charge an EV to travel 100km. Most EV owners set their cars to charge at night when electricity rates are cheaper. Plus, if a charger is powered by renewables, such as solar panels, then the cost per charge is significantly reduced.

Does charging an EV outweigh the environmental benefits of driving one? EVs don’t produce tailpipe emissions or air pollutants. However, electricity is required to charge their batteries. Australia’s energy mix is 74 per cent coal, 15 per cent natural

© RACWA Copyright 2015 *proposed route © RACWA Copyright 2015 *proposed route

gas and 11 per cent is considered to be clean energy. Ms Still says: “There is usually surplus electricity generation at night when demand for electricity reduces and this can be directed toward powering electric vehicles. Ultimately, EVs will increase net energy production, which, depending on the source, could also push up emissions. If the extra electricity needed to power EVs comes from renewable energy sources like wind turbines or solar, then emissions from any additional electricity consumption would be negligible.”

Do EVs need annual servicing?

Manufacturers recommend annual services, but servicing costs are much lower than fuel-powered cars. EVs don’t have a combustion engine; don’t require oil changes or fan belt replacements; and, as there are fewer moving parts in an EV,

the mechanical wear and tear is reduced.

Are EV batteries environmentally friendly? Producing lithium batteries is energy intensive and requires nickel, copper and aluminium. However, lithium batteries have higher energy density and low discharge rates, so they’re more efficient. They’re also fully recyclable.

Do drivers of EVs need a special driver’s licence? There’s no need for any special licences or permits to drive an EV.

Is there any risk of electrocution with driving an EV? EVs have built-in safety features to prevent the risk of electrocution even if travelling through deep water or if flooded. The technology is very safe. ● Find out more about the RAC Electric Highway® at electrichighway.rac.com.au.

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Road safety

Words by Jane Hammond

SELLING ROAD SAFETY Over the years, road safety advertising has used a variety of methods to sell the safety message to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

R

ecording of road deaths began in Australia in 1925 when 700 people died on the nation’s roads. As the number of cars increased so did the road fatality rate.

In 1970 it peaked at 3798.

Governments stepped in with efforts to reduce vehicle crashes through education campaigns, improvements to roads and vehicles, police enforcement and legislation to improve road safety.

Since at least the 1940s Australian drivers have also been exposed to road

safety advertisements urging caution and attempting to change driver behaviour in a bid to bring down the crash rate.

The RAC’s Road Patrol magazine, an earlier version of Horizons, displayed some of the first road safety ads in WA. These tended to use simple messages and a range of techniques – some designed to shock; others to educate.

WA ads over the years During the 1940s and 1950s, printed advertisements in RAC’s Road Patrol carried very broad road safety messages.

In 1947 the National Safety Council of WA used the image of a widow to warn that “Careless Kills” and that “Safety is Your Responsibility”. During the 1950s the ads changed to a more propaganda style with an appeal to “Show Sportsmanship on the Road”.

A caution about driving at night saw the call to “Slow down after Sundown”.

Through the 1960s the ads began to take on a more educational role targeting specific driving behaviour.

In a 1969 ad, drivers were being warned to watch out for elderly pedestrians and October / November 2016 Horizons 29

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Road Safety National Safety Council of WA advertisement from 1950.

“Advertising and community education can facilitate and reinforce measures such as seatbelts, RBT and speed cameras.

Advertising can also help by reinforcing enforcement and maintaining behaviour change.”

to “Expect the Unexpected”. This ad claimed that the elderly could “lack traffic appreciation,” suffer from “illness” or may have “poor vision and hearing”.

In 1973, Road Patrol ran an ad with an eerie image of a skeleton driving a vehicle. The ad used shock value and dark humour to communicate its message. It was a time when seatbelts were the focus of road safety campaigns and their wearing had been mandated nationwide.

With seatbelt laws came a change in behaviour and a fall in fatalities.

Changing behaviour Mass media advertising has been a feature of road safety campaigns in Australia for nearly 30 years. During that period we have also seen the national road toll more than halve.

RAC Research Analyst Andrew Plunkett said detailed analysis suggested that seatbelts, random breath testing (RBT) and speed cameras have been the main factors in reducing the fatality count.

“Advertising and community education can facilitate and reinforce measures such as seatbelts, RBT and speed cameras. Advertising can also help by reinforcing enforcement and maintaining behaviour change,” Mr Plunkett said.

“Advertising is part of a behaviour change toolbox. Different messages and campaigns connect with people

at different times. But it’s not an inoculation type-process; it must be maintained to be effective.”

Current WA campaigns WA’s latest road safety campaign was launched in July this year with a focus on positive reinforcement, praising drivers who have not

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In 1973 safety strategies attempted to shock people into wearing seatbelts, attested by this advertisement from RAC’s Road Patrol magazine.

Road Safety

below: An example from 1969 of the promotion of elderly pedestrian awareness.

accrued any demerit points and encouraging them to influence others.

The “zero heroes” campaign is the first of a number of new road safety advertising blitzes that WA drivers will be exposed to over the remainder of the year at a cost of $4 million.

The campaign will also look at WA’s worst drivers.

The TAC’s approach

▼

Leading the nation in the push to save lives and trauma on our roads is Victoria’s Transport Accident Commission (TAC). Since its inception in 1989 the TAC has devised myriad successful advertising campaigns that have helped slash the state’s road fatalities to the lowest in Australia.

Many of the TAC’s campaigns have been adopted in other Australian jurisdictions as well as internationally.

The ads have been graphic, emotional and hard-hitting. They have emphasised carnage with many including realistic footage of car crashes.

WA advertising expenditure The budget for Road Safety advertising in WA over the past few years has been among the lowest per head of population for any state and territory in Australia.

The release of a report in 2014 into WA’s road safety campaigns commissioned by the government found they had lacked “strategic insight” and “took the path of least resistance”.

WA’s latest road safety campaign launched in July this year is costing $4 million.

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Road Safety Propaganda-style safety advertisement from the 1950s.

A 2004 study by Monash University’s Accident Research Centre found that road safety campaigns with a persuasive orientation, and those that used emotional rather than rational appeals tended to have a greater effect. Information-based and educative campaigns tended to be less effective, the study found.

The TAC’s ads have focused on the personal costs of unsafe driving practices from driving under the influence to driving tired or speeding. The ads have used narratives with emotive, educational and enforcement themes. The TAC has produced more than 40 hard-hitting TV ads.

Among the TAC’s most notable slogans was: “If you drink, then drive, you’re a bloody idiot.” The catchphrase was picked up and used in Canada, New Zealand and also in WA. Its most recent incarnation is: “Only a little bit over? You bloody idiot” – a slogan designed to highlight the dangers of low-level drink driving.

The TAC’s latest campaign focuses on the Towards Zero strategy, which considers any death on our roads to be unacceptable. It uses the emotional story of a man who is asked what he thinks an acceptable number of deaths on Victorian roads would be. When he

National Safety Council of WA advertisement from 1947.

The TAC’s latest campaign focuses on the Towards Zero strategy, which considers any death on our roads to be unacceptable.

answers 70, a crowd of 70 of his friends and family appear from around a corner and when the man is asked again what an acceptable road toll would be he becomes emotional and replies “zero”.

The ad represents a change in the use of emotion through shock tactics to emotion that uses personal loss in order to deliver the message.

Marketing manager for the TAC Jodi Gubana said the latest Toward Zero campaign was possible because of the work done over nearly 30 years in educating the public about road safety.

Room for improvement in WA A review of the Office of Road Safety (now Road Safety Commission) mass media campaigns in WA, commissioned by the government in 2014 found that recent speeding and drink driving ads in WA had missed the mark and had failed to target those most at risk – regional residents.

The review also looked at WA’s recent “Enjoy the Ride” campaign and found it did not run for a long enough period to have an impact.

Mr Plunkett said “Enjoy the Ride” probably worked for just one sector of the population – people who were ready to change into that mode of driving.

In Victoria, Ms Gubana said the TAC’s road safety ads had used a variety of techniques to reach audiences, including themes that dealt with education, emotion and enforcement. Each technique reached different demographics and personality types and together helped sell the road safety message to a wide audience.

“If we hadn’t gone through 20 to 30 years of campaigns we wouldn’t be able to talk about a zero road toll, we wouldn’t have been able to talk about it even 10 years ago. But the community is now at a point where they understand enough about road safety that we can say this is the next step forward.” ●

32 Horizons October / November 2016

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34 Horizons October / November 2016

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Travel

Words Tania Connolly

The surprising Collie River Valley A weekend visit to the Collie River Valley reveals a region surprisingly rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

C

risp, fresh air fills my lungs as I arrive in the scenic South West town of Collie; the 200km drive from Perth took just under two-and-half hours. The town, arguably best known for coal mines, is, in fact, swathed in natural beauty.

The first stop for every visitor should be the Collie Visitor Centre to stock up on maps, guides and information.

In addition to being an information hot-spot, the Visitor Centre has

showering facilities for hikers and cyclists who traverse the Bibbulmun and Munda Biddi trails. Visitors to the area will quickly discover the many opportunities to get out and explore the great outdoors, with various walking and cycling tracks, catering for all levels of fitness, weaving through the towering jarrah forests and alongside the meandering Collie River.

Enjoying the great outdoors Trails around the town lead to many breathtaking natural attractions, which are also easily accessible by car. As I

sit under a shady tree, kayakers paddle slowly past on the sparkling sapphire blue of the picturesque Minninup Pool (3km from the Collie township). Each October, crowds gather here to watch the 68km Collie Adventure Race. This multi-stage relay race consists of a canoe leg, mountain bike ride, swim, road bike ride and a run, and provides a spectatorfriendly event.

Honeymoon Pool (36km from the Collie township) is a peaceful spot to either relax and take in the area’s lush surrounds or get active on the Collie October / November 2016 Horizons 35

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Travel top to bottom: Blue Fairy Wren at Stockton Lake; Collie River; Wellington Dam.

Visitors to the area will quickly discover the many opportunities to get out and explore the great outdoors ...

River. It features a scenic campsite and picnic area nestled among tall trees right on the river banks. This is a popular swimming spot and a perfect place from which to access the river for kayaking and canoeing. There are also several bushwalking trails and bicycle tracks around the site. A large area of decking extends across the river providing visitors with great views.

Stockton Lake, a disused open-cut mine, is now a glistening blue artificial lake that attracts water skiers and canoeing and sailing enthusiasts.

The lake is seven kilometres east of the town centre and has camping and picnic facilities.

A trip to Collie is not complete without a visit to Wellington Dam. Situated in

the heart of Wellington National Park, this is a quieter alternative to Stockton.

Here visitors can view a range of unique wildlife as well as spring wildflowers.

Pop in to the recently opened kiosk for soft drinks, snacks or lunch – you can also hire bikes here or book a ‘glamping’ experience at the semi-secluded Stones Brook site. Most visitors, however, visit the dam in order to admire the views from the lookout. The expanse of water surrounded by dense forests makes for an impressive sight. Clambering down the stairs to the bottom of the dam is well worth the effort – here you can watch the water spill over the dam wall and run into the river below.

With plenty of water around, fishing is a popular activity in and around

Collie. Marron season lasts four weeks commencing early January, while freshwater fishing for trout, cobbler and redfin perch in Wellington and Glen Mervyn Dams is permitted, with licences, all year. Licences for fishing and marroning are required and can be purchased at Fisheries Department offices or online at fish.wa.gov.au.

Discover the old and new The town’s close links to the coal industry make a tour of the replica underground coal mine at the Visitor Centre a must.

Visitors are transported back in time as sprightly 82-year-old guide Alf relives the conditions he endured from the age of 14.

At the Collie Railway Station, now a museum, at the press of a button a

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Travel (below) Long Pool in Wellington National Park; cycling tracks cater for all levels of fitness.

Potters Gorge.

On the banks of the Collie River.

model train is sent hurtling through an 1877 miniature version of the town. Plus, visitors can wander through life-size restored carriages and wagons in the Rolling Shed.

There are also opportunities to learn about the area’s Aboriginal history. A three-hour cruise of Collie River to hear dreamtime stories by a local Noongar can be booked via the Dolphin Discovery Centre in Bunbury.

Alongside heritage-listed buildings that preserve Collie’s history, modern attractions enhance the recreational and social aspects of the town. SuperTown projects include a purpose-built art gallery and a brightly coloured Central Park Water and Adventure Playground.

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Travel below clockwise: Minninup Pool, Collie; Wellington Dam; take a tour of the replica mine.

See and do Do Abseil the sheer Wellington Dam Quarry wall.

Stay Self-contained chalets at Harris River Estate.

Buy Local crafts and fresh produce at the fortnightly Sunday markets in the 118-year-old Goods Shed.

Admire The mural, pipe organ and tubular bells in the town’s century-old Anglican church.

Events not to be missed On 12–13 November the town will host the 20th anniversary commemorative event of the ‘Round the Houses’ bike race, with a weekend of parades and races. And, every August visitors can witness the oldest handicapped road race in WA. For 91 years competitors have cycled 104km from Collie to Donnybrook and back.

Stay, eat, drink Accommodation in and around Collie ranges from camping to motels, hotels and B&Bs. Camping options include Glen Mervyn Dam where campers can stay for free and where visitors can swim, water ski and sail. Stockton Lake is a popular choice with both caravanners and campers. Facilities include gas barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and convenient chopped firewood.

There is a variety of accommodation in and around the town, including backpacker lodgings at the Colliefields Hotel; one-bedroom, family suites or spa apartments at The Comfort Inn or romantic rooms at Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast. There are also powered sites and cabins at the renovated Collie River Tourist Park or, for fleeting stops,

there is free long-bay caravan parking besides the Collie Visitor Centre.

Outside town, the rustic charm of Harris River Estate is less than 10km from the CBD and offers visitors a tranquil experience. The only self-sufficient micro-brewery, winery and cidery in Collie, it is the ideal location for events and has a cellar door too. It’s a sublime place to savour tasty tapas and awardwinning wines.

Another favourite is the Collie Blueberry Farm, which is just under 12km from town, where tourists can pick blueberries between January and March.

With plenty already on offer and further development plans in the pipeline, including a huge water sports park, the Collie River Valley is an ideal family road trip option that’s an easy drive from Perth. l

(above from top) The tranquil Harris River Estate; the Vic Hotel in Collie.

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Travel

Words Debbie Ward

Ancient Ireland

Centuries-old castles, spectacular landscapes, winding roads and quaint villages – it’s all possible on a self-drive holiday in Ireland, as Debbie Ward discovers on a jaunt through the country’s east.

I

n the 1990s, an Australian visiting the town of Trim in Ireland was set upon by the residents on the lawn of its 12th Century castle. Luckily, it was only Mel Gibson filming Braveheart; a movie set in Scotland but part shot at Trim’s castle, with locals as extras.

You’ll be assured a warmer welcome if you make Trim (about 45 minutes from Dublin airport) your base for exploring

part of Ireland’s new ‘Ancient East’ touring route. The highlights can be comfortably covered over three day trips that include some sites so old they make Trim’s castle seem positively modern.

Of course, this storybook-style nobleman’s fortress did boast a few mod cons in its day. The gateway had built-in ‘murder holes’ through which tar and boiling urine could be poured on would-be invaders. The main bedroom

had an ensuite; a private toilet chute leading luxuriously out of the castle.

You can hear these tales and more from an historian on a tour of the castle’s massive three-storey keep. Wooden walkways now replace the ancient floors but you can still climb the spiral staircases, looking out for the cunning ‘trip steps’ that thwarted invaders and emerge through low doorways at a stoop, so exposing your neck in case you deserve beheading.

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Travel

Debbie Ward

Debbie Ward

Debbie Ward

(below and top right): Neolithic burial chambers at Brú na Bóinne were built 5000 years ago. (bottom right): 12th-century Trim Castle, best known to modern visitors as one of the sets from the film, Braveheart.

By the late 18th century punishments were less violent. It was then the first convicts left Ireland for Australia and they did so from Trim’s jail. Nowadays the town is a more attractive base. I stayed at the large, modern Knightsbrook Hotel.

What it lacks in heritage it makes up for in facilities, with large family rooms, a golf course, spa and pool. In the finedining restaurant I tucked into beetroot and goats’ cheese panna cotta, monkfish and what my husband voted a ‘perfect’ chocolate brownie.

In the town centre Franzinis, near the castle, serves crowd-pleasers like fajitas, pasta and salmon. James Griffin Pub on High Street is also worth a look. It’s part heritage pub, part modern extension, where DJs enliven things on the weekends. And, if you’re travelling with children, seek out the town’s pitch- andputt course and playground.

Boyne Valley battlefield Trim is situated in the Boyne Valley and you’ll cross the river at many points during your touring holiday, with rather more ease than the troops involved in the largest ever clash on Irish soil; the 1690 Battle of Boyne. You can visit the site of this showdown at Oldbridge, 40km from Trim, and walk the battlefield itself.

This epic family feud between England’s Protestant King William III and his Catholic father-in-law King James II, who he had deposed, caused shockwaves that still reverberate today between the different religions and those who feel an allegiance to the UK and others wanting Northern Ireland and the independent South reunited.

A small museum inside a heritage house features weapons and eyewitness accounts describing how King William survived having his shirt ripped off

by a cannon ball. There’s a good film dramatising events in an outhouse before you head into a lovely formal garden with a café. Check the web for historical reconstructions and other events during the summer.

Brú na Bóinne burial chambers Just 10km east of Oldbridge but some 5000 years back in time is Brú na Bóinne, where you’ll find Neolithic burial chambers that were created a staggering 500 years before Egypt’s pyramids rose.

There are 20 mound-like structures at this UNESCO-listed site, and the largest; Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, can be visited on a tour, either individually or, in combination over a few hours, but it’s best to book ahead. There’s also good salmon fishing on the river here should you wish to linger.

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Travel

Debbie Ward

Beaulieu House and (below) Slane Castle.

It is said the original road from Dublin to Slane was especially straight to speed King George IV of England to his mistress. The woman in question was Marchioness Conyngham who lived at Slane Castle, a stately pile dating from 1703.

then took a minibus into the countryside to meet our guide at the grassy burial mounds.

Boulders ring the ancient structures, many decorated with swirls and circles. From the outside the mounds appear almost alien. Inside, the passageways, made entirely with stone tools, are amazing in their symmetry. I climbed to the top of Knowth to get a wind-blasted view across kilometres of fields and immediately understood why this lofty spot was chosen as a centre for worship and defence.

At Monasterboice, up a scenic country lane near Drogheda, is a graveyard still in use today, which is worth a detour to see Ireland’s finest 10th century Celtic ‘high crosses’ carved with Bible stories. I found Adam and Eve easily; then, using a sign, located Goliath, the resurrection and many more. There’s also a stone tower in the churchyard that was built to protect religious artefacts from Viking invaders.

Exploring castles

ceiling and mirrors which allowed him to admire himself from all angles.

Sadly in 1991 a fire destroyed many of the original castle interiors but you can still check yourself out in that ballroom.

A huge portrait of the king looks down on visitors as it once did on his mistress and her cuckolded husband thanks to the quick-thinking current day Marchioness Conyngham, who saved it from smoke damage by cutting it from its frame with a cake knife.

Nowadays it is pop royalty who keep the castle famous. The likes of The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen and Madonna have played huge concerts in the grounds (the next is planned for summer 2017 when a whiskey distillery will also open on site).

The castle even became a recording studio for U2’s Unforgettable Fire album and the ballroom features in their video for Pride (In the Name of Love).

Beaulieu House was built in 1666 and has been largely unchanged but the most striking thing you’ll see there is double the age of the Brú na Bóinne tombs.

The huge antlers as you enter are not a Historic Trinity College houses the Book of Kells, a ninth-century Bible.

The poetic image of Ireland’s weather is of soft mists. In reality it’s a mixed bag; I went from shorts to raincoat in three days. Having a rental car means you can change plans swiftly, reverting from outdoor to indoor sites, like Slane Castle and Beaulieu House, on wet days.

It is said the original road from Dublin to Slane was especially straight to speed King George IV of England to his mistress. The woman in question was Marchioness Conyngham who lived at Slane Castle (50km from Dublin Airport, 26km from Trim), a stately pile dating from 1703. This was no clandestine royal affair; her husband, Marquess Conyngham, enjoyed the perks of royal favour and allowed the king and his wife interconnecting rooms. For his 1821 visit, the king (famously fat but vain) meanwhile ordered a small, round ballroom be built, with exquisite Gothic revival plaster

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Travel Inspired?

Find out more about self-drive itineraries at ireland.com/en-au/itineraries, then call RAC Travel on 1300 655 179 to book.

hunting trophy; they belonged to a prehistoric great elk and were discovered in the 18th century, preserved in a peat bog.

Decorative surprises are all around.

Intricate carvings of musical instruments sit over the doorways, a heavenly frescoe adorns the living room ceiling and there are portraits by famous painter Joshua Reynolds.

Ask the guide about the crest of a hand holding a broken lance in the stained glass panels. He’ll tell you how an ancestor of the resident family accidentally poked out the eye of the king of France in a friendly wedding jousting match. The king died from his injuries; the poor nobleman by execution.

The garden here is a treat. Stroll on paths through pretty cottage flowers and picnic at riverside tables. Fancy living like a lord? You can: the family that owns Beaulieu has recently opened rooms up to bed and breakfast guests.

Exploring Dublin No trip to Ireland would be complete without a couple of days in the attractive,

relatively compact capital Dublin, set around the river Liffey.

One of the key sites is the Guinness Storehouse, an entertaining museum that explains the making of Ireland’s most famous export. Having toured it before, I opted instead to queue for a glimpse of the Book of Kells at historic Trinity College – a ninth century Bible with calf-skin pages beautifully decorated by monks. Afterwards, I emerged into a library of dusty books and spiral staircases that looked like something out of Harry Potter.

Dublin has produced numerous famous writers, from James Joyce to Oscar Wilde and a fun way to discover more is on a visit to their drinking haunts. On my own wanders I found the grave and spooky plaster death mask of Gulliver’s Travels author Jonathan Swift inside St Patrick’s Cathedral. Somewhat surprisingly, the famous satirist was Dean here for many years. You can see the pulpit from which he preached about inequality.

My Dublin home was lovely boutique hotel Brooks, perfectly positioned on Drury Street, in a hipster enclave of cafes

and interior design stores. At dusk, I joined the throng of tourists in nearby famous nightlife district Temple Bar, where bottle tops are squashed between the cobbles and I called in to one of the old pubs with live traditional Irish music.

The friendly atmosphere created by just two people, a guitar and fiddle had brought a wide cross-section of people together; a young family was tapping along, a hen party dancing and a Swiss tourist staring open-mouthed at the high speed fiddle playing.

I once saw a giggling Dublin woman and her mother get so carried away performing a jig to such music that they knocked a fire extinguisher off the pub wall. It was a fun night out, and music is also yet another layer in Ireland’s rich history. l

Fast facts Getting there Fly to Dublin from Perth via major airport hubs in the Middle East, South East Asia or Europe.

Getting around Dublin is easily walkable and well served by buses. The airport bus costs €10 return and takes about half an hour each way. You can pick up your car from the airport when you’re ready to get touring. Driving in Ireland is on the left but automatics aren’t popular, so request one well in advance. Book international car hire at rac.com.au/carhire.

Where to stay You’ll be spoilt for choice, with accommodation ranging from golf resorts and hotels to B&Bs, historic houses and self-catering cottages.

Where to eat

The Temple Bar in Dublin’s nightlife district.

With Dublin boasting some of Europe’s best restaurants, you won’t go hungry. Once out on the road, be aware that pubs in Ireland don’t commonly offer food and the Ancient East route is surprisingly short on cafés, so getting recommendations from locals or packing picnics is a good idea.

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TAKING THE SLOW LANE With pristine beaches, rolling farmland and quaint country towns, the NSW South Coast offers one of Australia’s great road trips.

F

or holiday-makers taking a road trip on the NSW coast, whether heading north or venturing south, a beachside town is usually the destination.

The trips to reach them, however, are as different as night and day.

Towns on the NSW Central Coast and Mid North Coast are accessed via the busy Pacific Highway and tend to be larger and more densely populated than those in the south. By contrast, the NSW South Coast has retained more of its

country feel – bypasses along the Princes Highway remain few and far between.

As a road trip, then, the southern half of the NSW coast has a little more appeal.

It’s an old-school driving holiday, where you sometimes have to wait for an overtaking lane to get around a truck and you can amble through towns instead of flashing past them at 110km/h. This makes it easier to experience all that the NSW South Coast has to offer, and with more than 500km of coastline, there is a lot on offer. Here are some highlights:

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this page: The Famous Berry Donut Van; kayaking on Jervis Bay; residents of Mogo Zoo.

The Seacliff Bridge

facing page: The Sea Cliff Bridge runs between Coalcliff and Clifton. this page: Kiama Blowhole has been attracting tourists for 150 years. below: The Berry Donut van is a local institution.

Kiama Blowhole

This natural rock formation has been A favourite among photographers, the Seacliff Bridge was completed in late 2005 attracting tourists for the better part of 150 years and now sees around 600,000 and runs between the coastal villages visitors annually. The blowhole’s shape of Coalcliff and Clifton. The bridge was concentrates the incoming swell and a clever response to massive rock falls sends jets of water up to 25m in the air. that closed Lawrence Hargrave Drive in 2003. Not only did it future-proof the road It can, however, be temperamental, and has a habit of just bubbling over when against further rock falls, it also became a New South Welshmen are trying to show tourist attraction with a spectacular view it off to interstate visitors. out over the Tasman Sea. kiama.com.au grandpacificdrive.com.au

Travel

The Famous Berry Donut Van Berry is the quintessential South Coast country town, with quaint pubs, shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés and among it all the Berry Donut Van has become an institution. In recent times it’s had a major facelift but for most of its 50-plus years the van was nondescript, while bubbling away within were some of the best donuts on earth. Too hot to touch when first served, they are golden brown, October / November 2016 Horizons 47

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Travel

crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside and coated in sugar and cinnamon. berry.org.au

Jervis Bay Some places just hit the geographical jackpot and one such place is Jervis Bay. Blessed with stunning white sand beaches, it is also a hot-spot for watching the annual whale migration. But that doesn’t mean it’s an isolated or lonely place; it has been a popular tourist destination for decades and its towns are alive with restaurants, cafés, the usual complement of water sport activities, even art galleries. Don’t miss the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum, which houses a world-class collection of maritime artefacts and navigational and surveying instruments. Few coastal destinations have achieved such a fine balance between provincial appeal and vibrant culture. jervisbaytourism.asn.au

Fisherman’s Paradise The name says it all, really. This hamlet is nestled on the shores of Lake Conjola, which offers some of the south coast’s best fishing spots. The local bait shops will tell you where and when to throw in a line, although it’s hard to go wrong fishing at the entrance to the lake when the tide is turning, especially in the late afternoon. Bream, flathead and whiting are in abundance. visitnsw.com

A couple of the residents at Mogo Zoo.

Mogo Zoo Back in 1991 this started out as a ‘boutique’ zoo that focused on endangered species, but it’s gone on to become one of the most diverse and successful zoos in Australia with an enviable selection of big cats, African animals, primates and marsupials.

For an extra special zoo experience (and an extra fee) you can feed a lion, pat a red panda or play with ring-tailed lemurs. mogozoo.com.au

It’s an old-school driving holiday, where you sometimes have to wait for an overtaking lane to get around a truck and you can amble through towns instead of flashing past them at 110km/h.

Kayaking on Jervis Bay.

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Travel Point Perpendicular lighthouse, Jervis Bay. below left to right: Crested terns nesting, Montague Island; Eden Killer Whale Museum; Jervis Bay Explorer.

RAC members special offer!

Get one night free* at any NRMA Holiday Park When you stay at any of the seven NRMA Holiday Parks and book seven nights, you’ll only pay for six – that’s one free night.

For more information and to book, visit nrmaholidayparks.com.au/rac. *Terms and conditions apply

Montague Island Located 9km off the coast from the town of Narooma, Montague Island is the place to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The island is home to abundant fur seal and little penguin colonies and in spring humpback whales pass by on their annual migration from tropical waters to Antarctic feeding grounds. A charter boat tour of Montague Island takes around four hours, or you can stay overnight in one of the heritage buildings. montagueisland.com.au

Bega Cheese Heritage Centre No doubt you’ve eaten Bega cheese – well, this is the town where it’s made (and has been since 1899). The Bega Cheese Heritage Centre documents the

company’s history, offers cheese samples and sells souvenirs and other produce.

Yes, it’s a little bit of a tourist trap, but an almost mandatory one if you’re visiting this part of the world. begacheese.com.au

Eden Killer Whale Museum

Eden is the last big town on the NSW South Coast before the Princes Highway heads inland and down to the Victorian border. Its big attraction is the Eden Killer Whale Museum, which details the grisly but fascinating history of whaling in the region from about 1840. Its exhibitions include whale bones, the boats and tools used to hunt whales and a video about an unusual collaboration between humans and killer whales. killerwhalemuseum.com.au

Where to stay RAC members are entitled to discounts at all NRMA holiday parks along the NSW coast, with two excellent holiday parks between Sydney and Eden.

Murramarang Beachfront Nature Resort is squirrelled away

on the coast just outside Batemans Bay and offers comfortable lodgings with beaches on one side and a national park on the other.

Merimbula Beach Holiday Park

is an award-winning family resort with spectacular views from its cliff top eyrie. Its expansive grounds often play host to local events and entertainment.

For more information and bookings, visit nrmaholidayparks.com.au.

For the rest of your accommodation needs, head to visitnsw.com or chat to an RAC Travel consultant on 1300 655 179.

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Furniture & Interiors

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Travel brief

News and information for travellers

International Driver’s Permit – just $39

The Bionic Bar.



If you’re going overseas and plan to drive, there’s a good chance you’ll need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). An IDP allows you to drive overseas without further tests or applications and includes translations in nine different languages.

You can apply for an IDP in person at an RAC member service centre or via the post.

Simply visit one of our centres, or go online to rac.com.au/idp to download the form, for just $39.00. Alternatively, contact RAC’s Touring team on 9436 4840 or email perthtouring@rac.com.au.

SOMETHING BIG IS COMING OUR WAY Fremantle will be the first Australian port of call for Royal Caribbean’s third and latest Quantum-class ship, Ovation of the Seas, on her maiden voyage to Australia in November.

With a capacity of more than 4000 passengers and weighing 167,000 gross tonnes, Ovation is the smartest and most technologically advanced cruise ship to date and has something for everyone.

For avid cruisers there’s a range of gastronomic sensations from Jamie’s Italian to Wonderland, where menus are designed on sun, ice, fire, water and dream elements.

Contemporary stateroom options, from inside cabins with virtual balconies to 1640sq ft Royal Loft Suites with balconies, means cruising aboard Ovation is suited to singles, families, couples and multi-generational cruisers.

Ovation packs a punch with activities including the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator; SeaPlex, where guests can rollerskate or drive dodgem cars; rock climbing for the more adventurous; or catch a wave on the surf simulator FlowRider.

RAC Travel Sales Manager Tim Bolton attended the christening of Ovation in Tianjin, China. “We have a significant amount of members already booked on her Singapore to Fremantle voyage and they are going to be blown away with her onboard features,” he said.

In Australia, Ovation will homeport out of Sydney with six departures from December 2016 to February 2017, returning in November 2017 for her second Australian season.

For more information and pricing details for Ovation of the Seas’ three to 14-night adventures, call your local RAC cruise expert on 1300 655 898.

Save on your Collie road trip If you’re considering a road trip through the Collie region, remember that as an RAC member you can enjoy discounts at many local businesses simply by showing your RAC membership card. Save on dining, accommodation and at local stores.

For more, visit rac.com.au/mb. To find out more about the attractions around Collie, turn to our feature on page 35.

Tim’s top tips: ● Take a ride on the North Star ascending 90m above sea level ● Let the robotic barman at the Bionic Bar mix your drink ● Chill out and treat yourself to the adults-only Solarium.

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

Toyota Prius

T

oyota has launched the first all-new Prius since 2009 and the big news is it’s actually a little bit sporty. More on that later though….

As you’d expect, the Prius’s environmental credentials are even better than the car it replaces. Fuel consumption is down to 3.4L/100km in the ADR test, a notable step down from the previous Prius’s 3.9L/100km.

Exhaust emissions are also lower, down from 89g/km to 80g/km grams of CO2 per km.

Unusually, power from the new Prius’s drivetrain is lower than in the car it superseded, but the new car is lighter (by 30kg) and its centre of gravity is lower by 24mm.

This was enabled, in part, by changes made to the nickel-

metal hydride battery, which, as well as being lighter and smaller, has also been repositioned from under the boot to under the rear seat.

While you could argue the word ‘Prius’ has become a byword for ‘hybrid car’, you’d be going against the odds trying to convince a jury it also meant sporty.

It’s no Toyota 86, but, compared with its predecessor, this fourthgeneration Prius is markedly more responsive and has noticeably improved dynamics.

Contributing to these changes are the revisions to the front suspension geometry, damping and springs, which have resulted in noticeable improvements to the Prius’s ride and handling.

Toyota Prius specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

The Prius’s electric power steering has been revised and although it feels quicker, there still isn’t much actual road feel there. Generally though, this is a more refined and sharper-handling car than its predecessor.

Its safety features are excellent, with autonomous braking, active cruise control and lane departure warning systems standard on both variants. However, the current Prius hadn’t been rated by

from $39,880 drive away 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol; in-series hybrid 72kW @ 5200rpm (90kW combined output) 142Nm @ 3600rpm 3.4L/100km 80g/km not rated

ANCAP at the time of writing.

In contrast with the Prius’s strikingly styled exterior, the interior is relatively low key though still highly technologyoriented. There’s even an induction charging pad for your phone.

The Prius’s headline act has always been its fuel-saving tech and the statement that makes.

It’s just that now, driving this Toyota technology roadshow is much more interesting than it used to be. l

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s hybrid output)

Test drive Not surprisingly, the A4 has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating ...

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

Audi A4

T

here were quite a number of features in the new Audi A4 that the company could have prioritised at the top of its introductory press information when the car was launched in February 2016.

Audi could have mentioned the new A4’s cleverly lightened body (by 65kg), its classleading aerodynamics (with a drag coefficient of 0.27), the innovative high compression engines and full smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, to name just a few.

In the end, it chose to highlight the car’s safety technologies above all these and more.

One of the reasons for this is because the A4 has three kinds

of autonomous braking: City, Interurban and Vulnerable Road User.

More noteworthy than that is that the A4 has, as standard, a system that uses LED fibre optics in all four doors to warn occupants when it is unsafe to open the doors due to vehicles approaching from behind.

The system scans the road or footpath and warns of approaching traffic, including cyclists. It’s not a new or unique technology, but the fact it is standard on all new A4s deserves a big tick.

Not surprisingly, the A4 has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, which was awarded due, in part, to features like these, plus the fact it has eight airbags and an attention assist system.

So, what about the A4’s other

Audi A4 specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

$69,590 drive away as tested 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol turbo 140kW @ 4200–6000rpm 320Nm @ 1450–4200rpm 5.3L/100km 119g/km ★★★★★

technology? In its 2.0-litre petrol engines, Audi utilises a clever combustion method designed to maximise its efficiency when under partial load, but retain its full abilities when they’re required.

Its response to the evertightening emissions regulations in Europe and the US, and the result it delivers – 5.3L/100km in the ADR test – is, frankly, amazing for a 2.0-litre petrol engine in a mid-sized luxury sedan.

Of course, right down to the minutest details the serenity of A4’s exquisitely designed and built interior, makes everything outside it seem uncouth.

There are four different engine specification in the A4, comprising three turbocharged petrol engines and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

Pricing for the A4 starts at $63,690 drive away for the 1.4 TFSI S tronic sport ($69,590 drive away for the 2.0 TFSI as tested). l

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Test drive

Kia Sportage

N

owadays, the Kia Sportage has a loyal base of customers in Australia, and it’s no wonder.

Aside from being well built, and carrying good equipment levels, what really sets it apart is its seven-year warranty.

The lengthy warranty was introduced two years ago, and it’s the strongest indication we’ve seen of a manufacturer’s confidence in its product.

Along with that, you get a full-sized spare wheel, plus this new Sportage introduces parking assist to the Kia brand in Australia. The technology can steer the vehicle into parallel or 90-degree parking spots, but it’s only available on the top-of-the-range Platinum model.

Standard equipment across the range includes six airbags and two ISOFIX anchor points for child seats, helping it achieve the maximum 5-star safety rating from ANCAP. One of the obvious downsides of the new Sportage is its appearance, which follows the brand’s ‘tiger-nose’ styling language. It works on other models in the range, but not as well in the current Sportage.

Kia has also dropped the entry level manual Si variant, which means it now costs more to get into a new Sportage because you have to get the automatic, which is $3000 more than the previous manual Si. Still, the Sportage is one of the leaders in the mid-sized SUV segment, and, indeed,

Kia Sportage specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

one of the market influencers.

Consider the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson alongside this.

The massive competition in this segment has pushed manufacturers to offer customers technology and refinements that were, only a few years ago, the preserve of prestige cars.

Examples are autonomous braking, parking assistance and wireless phone charging.

For the time being, you’ll have to shell out for the top of the

from $32,660 (Si) drive away 2.0-litre petrol 114kW @ 6200rpm 192Nm @ 4000rpm 7.9L/100km 182g/km ★★★★★

range Platinum model to get these, but if past trends are any guide, this tech will eventually move down the ranks.

These days, the Koreans also make smooth, powerful and efficient turbo diesel engines and the 2.0-litre unit available in the Sportage is no exception.

The Sportage is available with two- and all-wheel-drive, and as well as the diesel there are 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre petrol engines available. It’s definitely worth a look. l

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Test drive The King Cab looks like a two-door ute, but there are, in fact, four doors.

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

Nissan Navara King Cab

F

ollowing the launch of its all-new Navara NP300 twin-cab ute in mid-2015, Nissan introduced the single cab, king cab and twin cab chassis versions of the legendary ute.

These came during a year of big change for the ute sector, with almost every major manufacturer introducing new products. With these extra variants, Nissan’s ute range is now complete.

They come with the same two highly efficient renditions of the 2.3-litre diesel engine that are in the full-bodied twin-cab ute, one with a single turbo, the other with a twin-turbo set up.

A 2.4-litre petrol engine, similar to that used in the X-Trail, is also available in the two-wheel drive versions of the

Navara. This makes 122kW and 238Nm. The King Cab Navara cab chassis we tested was a sixspeed manual in entry level RX specification, meaning it comes with the single turbo version of the 2.3-litre diesel.

In this form, the engine has 120kW and 403Nm. Opt for the ST or the rangetopping ST-X, and the engine will have a two-stage turbo charger, which helps make 140kW and 450Nm. We found the single turbo diesel ample for hauling light to medium loads in the tray, which you would expect, given the payload capacity in the RX pick-up is 1183kg. Attach a large boat trailer to the towbar and you’ll want to move up to the more powerful twin-turbo unit.

Nissan Navara King Cab specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

The manual gearbox had a long-throw shift movement, but the shifts themselves were positive and baulk-free.

Its interior is good, but its build and finish isn’t quite up with the segment leaders, which are, admitedly, more expensive than the Nissan.

The NP300’s safety credentials are good. It carries a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, and it retains that rating even when the optional Nissan bullbar is fitted.

From $41,320 2.3-litre turbo diesel 120kW @ 3750rpm 403Nm @ 1500–2500rpm 6.6L/100km 174g/km (auto) ★★★★★

Although the Nissan doesn’t have the rear cabin space of a full twin-cab ute, the Navara King Cab does have a pair of fold-down seats in the back. They’re not armchairs, but handy to have nonetheless.

The King Cab looks like a two-door ute, but there are, in fact, four doors. The rear two doors are cleverly concealed, and open only when the adjoining front doors are open. l October / November 2016 Horizons 55

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What’s new

The latest news from the motoring world

Seatbelt car turns 60

I

t’s been six decades since the launch of a little Swedish car that changed road safety forever. The Volvo 122, also known as the Amazon, arrived in 1956 and in 1959 became the first car to be equipped with the three-point seatbelt as we know it today. Although a three-point seatbelt had been patented in 1955 in the US and had appeared on other cars, it wasn’t until 1959 that the seatbelt was developed into its modern form and proven to be effective in dramatically reducing vehicle occupant deaths and serious injuries in crashes.

School runs inform Mazda enhancements The daily trip to and from school has proved a fertile research ground for Mazda.

The manufacturer’s engineers followed vehicles at school pick-up and drop-off times to study exactly how large SUVs are driven in the real world and then used those insights to engineer the new Mazda CX-9’s drivetrain to better suit the market that uses them. Los Angeles-based Mazda

engineer Dave Coleman said almost all the vehicles studied were being driven at low speed, but drivers were asking for high torque from low revs. The results of the research saw the 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the CX-9 tuned accordingly.

It develops its peak torque of 420Nm from 2000rpm. The old 3.7-litre V6 made 366Nm at 4250rpm.

WA car sales down There were 51,925 new car sales in Western Australia in the first half of 2016, according to official figures, representing a 4.3 per cent decline compared with the same period last year. This was well behind the national average for the first half 2016, which was up by 3.4 per cent. Despite being Australia’s fastest-shrinking state for new car sales, there was hope for WA in some market segments, including medium SUVs, which saw a 20.8 per cent increase and sports cars, which were up 17.1 per cent.

Q2 arriving in Q1 Audi’s new baby SUV, the Q2, is set to arrive on Australian roads in the first quarter of 2017. First shown at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016, production began in Germany in June. This will be the cheapest way to get into a new Audi SUV, although given its low and sporty profile, don’t expect go-anywhere off-road ability. In countries outside Australia, the Q2 will be offered with a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, although at the time of writing it wasn’t clear which of these we’d get in Australia. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive will be available.

October / Novemberr 2016 Horizons 57

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Horizons-Oct16

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8/09/2016 12:51 PM

k

Ask the car doctor

different tread pattern tyres on could cause any damage to the driveline?

Mike Waite, Helena Valley

A: While it is legal to put tyres

r I

with different tread patterns on a vehicle, it is recommended to at least retain the same tyre brand, tread pattern and specifications across the same axle. In other words, the two front tyres should be the same and the two rear tyres should be the same. The tread pattern of a tyre controls how the car grips to the road, disperses the water and generally how the car handles. It is unlikely that tyres with different tread patterns would cause any issues with the driveline. Ideally though, it is recommended to change either two or all four tyres at a time. It is also important to ensure the tyres have the same size, speed and load rating.

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, r r t e

Our experts answer your questions

Q

We own a Mazda CX-5 that turns the engine off when at a standstill to save fuel. My husband switches off this option when he drives, stating the few cents possibly saved on fuel will only incur bigger costs in the future to replace the car battery and the starter motor (due to excessive use). Can you please explain how this automatic start procedure works and if it really does put an extra strain on existing components?

Lorna Watts, Morley

A: Most stop-start vehicles

require a number of criteria to be met before the feature initiates. Usually, the car has to be stationary with the foot brake applied and the battery is required to have a certain amount of charge. Both the battery and the starter motor

d

have been modified so the vehicle is able to run this way.

The batteries in stop-start vehicles are designed to handle these extra loads. The starter motor is also designed with these duties in mind. Switching the feature off will neither prolong nor decrease the life of these components.

Q

I have a 2015 Kia Sportage with factory fitted Hankook tyres (Optimo K415). I recently had a flat tyre and needed to replace it. I was told by Hankook that they do not import the K415 – despite the fact that there must be hundreds, if not thousands, of Kia Sportages that have been imported with them on – and I would have to buy a Optimo H426 tyre. As the vehicle is all-wheel drive, is there a possibility that putting

Q

My husband says I should have the oil changed in my 1999 Lancer four times a year to keep it running well. He does the oil change himself and changes the filters at the same time. Is it necessary to change the oil so often when I rarely drive more than 10,000km a year?

Theresa McRae, North Fremantle

A: Changing the oil at

regular intervals will help prolong the life of the engine.

Oil does degrade over a period of time. However, to get the best performance out of your engine without any unnecessary extra outlay on maintenance, we recommend changing the oil in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, which in the case of your vehicle is every 12 months or 15,000km, whichever comes first.

You can be a winner If your question is published you will receive a copy of the UBD Gregory’s 2017 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 daytime telephone number with your query. If your question is chosen for publication, please allow up to eight weeks for delivery.

Contact

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

Call 13 17 03 Monday to Friday between 9am and 4.30pm to speak to one of our experts.

October / November 2016 Horizons 59

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Member Lounge People, places, prizes and RAC news Purchase a Roadside Assistance 90th anniversary car badge.

Available at all member service centres until sold out.

90 years ... of help when it’s needed most RAC recently celebrated the 90th anniversary of its Roadside Assistance service, which continues to play a vital role in keeping WA motorists on the move.

The service began in 1926 with members being assisted by experienced mechanics HV Mason and RL Stockbridge, who rode two motorcycles fitted with sidecars. Former Patrol Tony Gauci, who began working with the service in 1974, saw many changes in vehicles and vehicle technologies throughout his 36-year career with RAC Roadside Assistance, including many changes to RAC’s fleet.

“I was in a Ford Escort during my time as a Patrol and I would say that would be my favourite vehicle,” Mr Gauci said.

“Although it wasn’t air conditioned, had manual transmission and no power steering, it was pleasant to drive and had plenty of room for tools and accessories.

“Though modern vehicles have become more reliable, things still go wrong and members still feel safer knowing that if something should go wrong, help is only a phone call away.”

Mr Gauci held a number of positions within the Roadside Assistance team during his time with RAC and gained a great deal of satisfaction from being able to help members.

“I really enjoyed the ability to assist people in distress or breakdown situations,” he said.

“I was proud to belong to a well-respected and reliable organisation that could be called on for assistance, 24/7.”

To learn more about RAC’s history, visit rac.com.au/about-us/about-rac.

Working with members for a better WA To inspire innovation and garner valuable feedback from our members, RAC recently began holding oneday innovation workshops.

These events bring RAC people together with RAC members to explore ideas about new products or services that can be developed to enhance our members’ lives and lifestyles.

Ideas proposed so far have included ways of enabling people to live safely and independently in their homes for longer using telehealthcare technologies and bicycle tourism to open up new ways of exploring our state, as well as enhancing community cycling infrastructure.

Shortlisted ideas that are assessed as providing a valuable breakthrough opportunity will be progressed for further development and funding.

We’ll keep members informed about opportunities to take part in more of RAC’s innovation workshops in the near future.

60 Horizons October / November 2016

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Member Lounge

Save up to

Save this 20% summer at RAC Parks and Resorts

If you’re planning a beachside getaway these summer holidays, now is the time to book at RAC Parks and Resorts.

RAC members can save up to 20 per cent on sites and cabins at all five RAC Parks and Resorts, with a choice of four along WA’s stunning Coral Coast and one in the South West.

Those heading north can chose from RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, Ningaloo Reef Resort and RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.

If you’re heading to the South West, RAC’s Busselton Holiday Park is in a

WIN a Golden Quest Discovery Trail guidebook

prime location, a short stroll from the clear waters of Geographe Bay and is the latest addition to the RAC Parks and Resorts family.

All properties offer members valuefor-money accommodation in iconic WA locations.

Some will also run special school holiday entertainment programs to keep the kids busy.

For more details and to book, visit parksandresorts.rac.com.au.

Spanning a distance of 965km through the Goldfields of Western Australia, the Golden Quest Discovery trail provides travellers with a unique insight into the heritage of the region.

With the assistance of the Golden Quest Discovery Trail guidebook, you can learn about significant stops along the trail that highlight the 1880s gold rush region, from classic pubs to outback ghost towns and changing natural landscapes.

To complement the information at the trail stopping points, 25 audio tracks have been recorded to bring your adventure to life. The tracks are free to download and provide a deeper understanding of life during WA’s gold rush.

Did you know...

On average women make 7.5% more car crash claims than men, but when men crash they are more likely to write off their car.

Read more at blog.rac.com.au/men-vs-women-drivers You can manage your RAC Car Insurance policy or make a claim online at rac.com.au/myinsurance.

To enter

For your chance to win one of 10 Golden Quest Discovery Trail guidebooks, send your name, address, phone number and membership number to Horizons/Golden Quest giveaway GPO Box 2943 Perth WA 6800 See page 81 for terms and conditions.

October / November 2016 Horizons 61

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Member Lounge

SWITCHED ON BIKES Following the success of the recent RAC e-Bike Trial, RAC sponsored ‘Switched on Bikes’, a project delivered by the South East Regional Energy Group to increase awareness and uptake of electric bikes and help reduce congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.

Switched on Bikes forms part of the broader ‘Switch Your Thinking’ sustainability initiative led by the group.

The project included a four-month community engagement program and a workplace e-bike trial that was offered to ‘Switch Your Thinking’ member councils.

The City of Gosnells, City of Armadale, City of Belmont, City of Perth, Town of Victoria Park and the City of Wanneroo all registered to participate in the e-bike trial and each were gifted at least one e-bike to encourage staff to take part.

The City of Belmont has reported that of its 21 e-bike trial participants, 90 per cent had never previously ridden an e-bike. However, during the trial they replaced 67 per cent of car trips with e-bike trips.

After the trial, each council will integrate their gifted e-bike(s) into their respective pool bike schemes, so that staff can utilise them for business commuting on a regular basis.

The complete trial results will be collated in June 2017.

New tool scans your car’s health RAC’s nine Auto Services centres recently began using one of the latest vehicle diagnostic tools, which assists RAC technicians in quickly and accurately identifying problems in a broad range of vehicles.

As the scanning tool is not manufacturer-specific, it can be used on any vehicle brand, including the latest models, hybrids and diesel vehicles.

The speed at which the scanner can operate ensures vehicles can be assessed, the problem identified and the service completed more efficiently.

RAC Auto Services can perform a diagnostic scan on your vehicle for a fixed member-exclusive price of only $99.

To find out more or to book a service, call 1300 135 667 or visit rac.com.au/autoservices.

62 Horizons October / November 2016

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We offer a complete range of home security products, 24-hour alarm monitoring, 17 years of expertise and discounts for RAC members. We’ll even come to you.

Call 1300 132 735 or visit rac.com.au/security to book your free in-home consultation today RAC Security Services (WA) Pty Ltd (ABN 044 096 235 200) operates in Perth Metro and Mandurah only. Police licence No SA 45251.

October / November 2016 Horizons 63

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RAC members save 15% on travel insurance » 24/7 emergency assistance » $unlimited overseas medical & emergency expenses# » Cover for pre-existing medical conditions^

Call 1300 655 179 or go to rac.com.au/travelinsurance Limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please refer to the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement available from RAC before making a decision about this insurance. This insurance is issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd (Tokio Marine & Nichido) ABN 80 000 438 291, AFSL 246548. R.A.C. Travel Services Pty. Limited (ABN 17 009 164 176, AR NO. 228577) is an authorised representative of Tokio Marine & Nichido. Its managing agent, Tokio Marine Management (Australasia) Pty. Ltd. ABN 69 004 488 455 (TMMA) is authorised to act on behalf of Tokio Marine & Nichido to issue its policies and handle and settle claims in relation to those policies, subject to the terms of the authority. #Medical cover will not exceed a maximum of 12 months from the time you first received treatment for the injury or illness. ^Conditions are covered providing certain criteria is met and is subject to approval.

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MemberBenefits

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

Enjoy

5% off your fresh food bill see page 67

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Member benefits

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

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

Check out these latest offers.

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Make the most of your membership by following these simple steps: 1. Check out the latest offers in this issue 2. Download our free app and find the latest offers near you 3. Get the most from your membership everyday.

Visit rac.com.au/mb to stay up to date

79 Travel

Get blockbuster savings on movie tickets That’s the power of membership

Visit rac.com.au/onlineshop Member Benefit terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/movies for more details.

66 Horizons October / November 2016

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Snuggle up to 15% off a new bed That’s the power of membership

Show your card and save Member Benefit terms and conditions apply. Save 15% off regular prices or 5% off discounted offers. Visit rac.com.au/snooze for more details.

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Member benefits

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Save on your fresh food bill when you pre-purchase WISH Gift Cards Member Benefit terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/wish for more details.

October / November 2016 Horizons 67

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SUNDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2016 We’re upping the game when it comes to helping people living with MS, so in turn, this time we’re going bigger and better than ever before with this year’s Ocean Ride for MS.

RAC members receive

20% discount on entry fee

As a special offer to RAC Members we’re offering a discount of 20% on the entry fee to this years event.

Plus, the first 150 to register will also receive an Ocean Ride for MS Swag Pack including drink bottle, hat, wristband and gym bag.

To qualify enter the discount code “RAC2016” when completing your online registration before November 30, 2016.

REGISTER AT oceanrideforms.com.au OR CALL 08 6454 3131

Terms and Conditions: Please enter the “RAC2016” discount code on Step 5 of your registration on the payment page. This offer ends at midnight November 30, 2016. If you register using the discount code after the November 24, 2016 you will need to collect your Swag Pack on event day.

68 Horizons October / November 2016

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Beat the heat and prepare your outdoor area for 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 in metro areas 179 Beringarra Avenue, Malaga

www.nustyleshutters.com.au *Offer ends 31st of October 2016. T&Cs apply. Visit our webpage for more info.

October / November 2016 Horizons 69

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70 Horizons October / November 2016

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CALL NOW to beat the rush and take advantage of our fantastic Spring sale, with a massive 40% off every Nu Style Roller shutter purchase. Aluminium shutters are the perfect product for your home if you are looking to ● reduce the Perth summer heat, ● protect and secure your family, ● save on energy bills, ● block out light and minimize noise.

Backed up by a 10 year warranty, now is the time to buy and beat the summer rush.

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RAC Members receive

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FOR A FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE IN METRO AREAS 179 Beringarra Avenue, Malaga, 6090 *Offer ends 31st of October 2016. T&Cs apply. ^A further 10% off the already discounted price. Visit our webpage for more info.

October / November 2016 Horizons 71

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

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www.rac.com.au

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

Save 10%* on your Tax DepreciaTion ScheDule 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 08 9488 4870

or email jeremy.mcgrade@opg.net *offer available to rac members only. not valid with any other offer.

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

Metro-wide retic and bore installation and repairs

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

Free

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

also alsobore boreand andreticulation reticulationservice serviceand andmaintenance maintenance

installation for RAC members

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

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

Licensed repairer MRB1167

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

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

Don’t forget to show your card & save.

R537586

*20% off applies to full retail price and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Discount does not apply to purchases of motor vehicle, marine or deep cycle batteries, transmissions, engines & cylinder heads, satellite navigation devices, gift cards, combo deals, any trade purchases and trade workshop equipment. Discount does not apply to purchases from the Repco Authorised Service network. Offer valid 1- 31 October 2016.

74 Horizons October / November 2016

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Auto Offers

RAC members receive

Huge Savings

$150 OFF

Octane & Formula One Tint

$175 OFF

Unbreakable Auto Tint

30% OFF

Sirius Paint Protection & Tint Pack

25% OFF

Home Tinting

Tint a Car is Australia’s most trusted tinting network, supplying exclusive window films for your car and home, manufactured with the latest technology and all government approved by ARPANSA. The others just can’t keep up!

Tint a Car are also the first choice when choosing the latest in automotive paint protection to prevent scratches and keep your car looking brand new for a lifetime. With over 40 years experience as the top choice in the market, you can count on the professionals at Tint a Car.

RAC members receive exclusive discounts not available anywhere else across our premium automotive tints, home tinting and paint protection.

This month, $150 off Octane & Formula One auto tints (based on RRP, must be a full car), 25% off home tinting with Tint a Home (based on RRP per square metre on Solar Films, min spend $500), $175 off Unbreakable auto tint which is 10 times thicker than standard window films (based on RRP, must be a full car) and 30% off Sirius Paint Protection + Tint package (any tint, based on RRP, must be a full car).

Contact 13tint or www.tintacar.com.au for your nearest store.

RAC Members must present their membership card at time of sale to redeem offers.

October / November 2016 Horizons 75

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

KITCHENS RRP $2799

RRP $6790

RAC price

RRP $10900

RAC price

$2399

RAC price

$5690

$7499

Sunco SC32

Everdure Brighton Kitchen

The Metro

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.

Granite bench tops, Aluminium composite cabinets, Soft close doors, 2 Door 0° Fridge, 6 Burner BBQ with Rear Burner. Custom options available.

RAC price

RRP $5499

RRP $11,800

$6990*

RAC price

RAC price

$3999*

5% off

Dome

Artisan by Beefeater

Sunco Outdoor kitchen

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)

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, Fridge Combo

RRP $1499

RRP $1599

RAC price

RRP $669

RAC price

$1399

RAC price

$1499

$559

Hark Texas Pro Pit Smoker

GMG Daniel Boone Smoker

ProQ Excel 20 Smoker

A bigger than Texas offset smoker that can be fuelled by charcoal or wood. Heavy-duty steel construction with heat-resistant paint. Strong tube legs and steel wheels for easy manoeuvrability.

Point-to-point WiFi controller included that connects to your mobile phone.Grill temperature range: 65°C-260°C.Meat probe measures and displays internal temperatures on the control panel.Peaked lid for extra cooking height.

If it’s features don’t impress, then it’s sheer size will.

The 50cm diameter and standing at 1.2m gives you the capacity for 29.5 kg of food, which is hard to imagine, the Excel will hold 8 whole chickens, or any large joint of meat, a suckling pig has been done.

BARBECUEBAZAAR OPEN MON – FRI 9-5PM SAT 9-4PM SUN 11-2PM www.barbecuebazaar.com.au

76 Horizons October / November 2016

Balcatta

Cannington

30 Erindale Rd

1399 Albany hwy Telephone: 9458 5724

Telephone: 9240 7188

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Do you hear but not understand?

Now start at only

1,495ea

$

after discount

Free

Hearing test & otoscopic examination

Why miss words if you don’t have to?

This hearing aid works for your ears how a contact lens works for your eyes: improves your hearing without anyone knowing it’s there.

Introducing a hearing aid that was designed in the USA and is custom made here in Australia. It’s so small it fits right inside your ear canal, and that makes it virtually invisible for anyone else to see.

reduces those sounds while amplifying the speech directly around you, making conversations much clearer.

Packs a Punch Despite its miniature size, the processor inside the “InvisibleIn-Canal” hearing aid is so powerful it supports the most sophisticated advances in digital hearing technology to date.

The microprocessor is so fast, that it samples the listening environment 20,000 times per second and makes automatic adjustments to the sound it delivers to your ear. Some models in the range are designed to identify non-speech noise and the steady hum of background conversations then

Hearing Loss Specialists Hearing Clinics Are offering complimentary hearing consultations to RAC members to determine whether you are a candidate to wear the Invisible-In-Canal hearing aids. We invite you to call today for an appointment. Your visit will include a hearing test (with otoscopic examination), a personalised consultation to determine the correct level of technology that is required for your individual hearing loss.

30 DAY EXCHANGE GUARANTEE

LATEST TECHNOLOGY WITH NATURAL SOUND

Are You Missing Too Much?

Don’t let your hearing loss rob you of the things you enjoy most in life: the relationships with your friends and family.

You can get help now without suffering the stigma of yesterday’s technology hearing aids.

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS & PENSIONERS & FREE HEARING TESTS

VISIT US ONLINE

WWW.HEARINGLOSS.NET.AU

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.

Trust the Hearing Aid Specialists with 30+ years experience in Perth.

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

www.hearingloss.net.au

*Not valid with any other promotion **Conditions apply

October / November 2016 Horizons 77

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

78 Horizons October / November 2016

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

COME AND ENJOY OFF * at Save 10% MiSS 10% Maud OUR IRRESISTIBLE SMÖRGÅSBORD SwediSh ReStauRant Breakfast or lunch – Monday to Saturday December: Breakfast dinner festive smörgåsbord Mon – thur only Smörgåsbord Dinner & – Sunday to Thursday January: Breakfast, Lunch or Card dinner Monthe – Fri. Your Please present your valid RAC onsmörgåsbord arrival to receive entire group receives 10% discount presentation of table. your valid RaC discount for your entire group.

Onlyon one payment per card. Only one payment per table. Reservations are essential.

Reservations are essential.

97 MURRAY MuRRaY STREET StReet PERTH PeRth 97

Call 9325 3900

or email email restaurant@missmaud.com.au restaurant@missmaud.com.au or

RAC Members save an extra 10% on Christchurch Getaways Pick up an Apollo Hitop or Endeavour Camper in Christchurch and travel one way to Auckland to receive an additional 20% discount on TOP of the standard 10% members discount + NO One Way Fee! There is no better time to explore New Zealand.

Travel at your own pace with Apollo Call 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/Apollo

*excluding 24, 25 & 31 december Direct bookings only not valid with any other offer Not valid for2013 special events or with valid 1 dec – 24 January 2014any other offer. discount on smörgåsbord only2016.

Valid 1 September to 31 October Discount on Smörgåsbord only.

Receive 10%* off full house gutteR Replacement • Gutters and Downpipes • Roof Restoration • Ridgecap Re-pointing • Skylights • All General Roof Repairs • All work guaranteed

Call 0439 707 578 or 9398 9861

Discount only available to current RAC members when booking through RAC. Valid for travel in New Zealand only. Apollo rental terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability.

www.roofrenewals.com.au

We willy beat an! quote 300mm

360mm

Fully installed

Fully installed *Conditions apply

$185 ZINC $195 COLORBOND

$210 ZINC $220 COLORBOND

First aid training -

a must-have before your next trip.

When you’re travelling and help may be some time away, what would you do if someone you were traveling with became seriously sick or was injured?

St John’s one day Provide First Aid course (HLTAID003 Provide first aid) is a great all-rounder course that will equip you with the skills and confidence to deal with a range of injuries and illnesses.

Book your course today - only $136 for RAC members Call 9334 1233 or visit stjohnambulance.com.au

Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit before you head away

Off Road Kit

only .50 $

93

Medium Leisure Kit

only .4 5 $

76

all first aid courses and kits.

October / November 2016 Horizons 79

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

80 Horizons October / November 2016

Spring SALE!

Terms & conditions Full terms and conditions for each competition are available at rac.com.au/competitions.

$1000 Trade In

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

RAC Parks and Resorts Coral Coast and South West page 40 The competition begins on 21 September 2016 at 9am (Australian Western Standard Time) and ends on 7 November 2016 at 5pm. Up to one entrant may be awarded only one prize as follows: Accommodation for two people for three days at your chosen RAC holiday park and resort, $500 cash to spend at your destination of choice, and, depending on chosen location, two return flights to Monkey Mia or Exmouth departing Perth or car hire from Perth to Busselton or Cervantes.

Travel block-out dates apply. Travel must only be taken during low to midseason. Accommodation style is based on lead in room type only, subject to availability. Prize is valid for travel until 31 December 2017. The winner shall be chosen by the judges from the entries at random. The winner will be drawn on 10 November 2016 and notified by writing. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also 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 its prize on or before 5 December 2016. Prizes must be claimed in person unless a winner is otherwise advised. Identification, which includes a photograph, will be required.

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

Golden Quest Discovery Trail guidebooks page 61 The competition begins on 20 September 2016 at 9am (Australian Western Standard Time) and ends on 21 November at 5pm. Up to 10 entrants may each be awarded only one prize as follows: 1 Golden Quest Discovery Trail Guidebook. The winners shall be chosen by the judges from the entries at random. The winners will be drawn on 22 November 2016 and notified by writing. When the winners are notified of their prize they will also 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 its prize on or before 29 November 2016. Prizes must be claimed in person unless a winner is otherwise advised. Identification, which includes a photograph, will be required.

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

OR 20% OFF

Car Doctor page 59 Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winners) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a 2017 Perth and Surrounds UBD Street Directory, valued at $39.95. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid.

The winner will be notified by email, telephone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in October/November Horizons must claim their prize by 16 November, 2016. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

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 panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winner will be notified by email, phone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in October/November Horizons must claim their prize by 16 November, 2016. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of the Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Available on Entire Range 9242 7333

www.blueskyhealthcare.com.au October / November 2016 Horizons 81

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Contact

US

The 1 best

Do you have an idea for The 10 best?

Send your suggestions to editor@rac.com.au.

Law Walk, Kings Park One of Kings Park’s key bushland trails, the Law Walk takes you along Mt Eliza’s limestone escarpment and showcases the park’s great biodiversity, including a bird’s-eye view of the Swan River. The trail begins at Karri Pavilion and continues to Dryandra Lookout before looping back.

Members receive

50% discount

on a range of Parks and Wildlife park passes from the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

For more details, visit rac.com.au/parkpasses.

The Ancient Empire Walk at Valley of the Giants.

Walking trails Bibbulmun Track WA’s iconic 1000km Bibbulmun Track stretches from Kalamunda to Albany, but it’s not only for experienced bushwalkers.

There are eight day-walk maps available from the Bibbulmun Track Foundation that are ideal for those who just want a taste of the track’s highlights. They include the Darling Range day walk, Dwellingup day walk and a Pemberton day walk.

Ancient Empire Walk, Valley of the Giants Walk among towering 400-year-old red tingle trees on this lush and unique forest trail. The Ancient Empire walk features an interpretive trail themed around the lost era of Gondwana and, at some points, winds through the base of massive split tree trunks. This walk trail is a continuation of the Tree Top Walk.

Gorge Rim Walk, Karijini Located within Karijini National Park, the Gorge Rim walk trail follows the top of Dales Gorge from either the Fortescue Falls viewing area or the Circular Pool lookout.

Walkers will be rewarded with spectacular views over Circular Pool. The trail is 2km and requires moderate effort.

Railway Reserves Heritage Trail, Perth Hills This heritage trail follows the old York railway line and includes a walk through WA’s only historical railway tunnel. The trail begins at Bellevue with north and south loop trails that each join up at Mount Helena. From Mount Helena the trail continues to Wooroloo Reserve. The trail passes through many Perth Hills communities.

Woylie Walk, Dryandra Woodland Explore the Dryandra Woodlands, near Narrogin, via the fascinating Woylie Walk trail. The trail winds through dense woodlands that are home to threatened local fauna, including numbats, woylies and tammar wallabies. The 5.5km trail begins at the Old Mill Dam picnic area.

From September to early November you’ll also see colourful wildflowers in bloom.

Bluff Knoll, Stirling Range The Stirling Range National Park’s most popular walking trail starts at the southern end of the Bluff Knoll car park. From there, a 6km track takes you to the 1095m summit of the range’s highest peak. Though the trail is easy to follow some sections are steep and care should be taken.

Eagle View Walk, John Forrest National Park At 15km long, the Eagle View Walk trail is one of the more challenging in John Forrest National Park but the views of the coastal plains and scenic park surrounds make it worth the effort. During spring you’ll see many wildflowers along the way.

Remember to sign in and out before and after your walk at the ranger’s office.

Reabold Hill Summit Boardwalk, Bold Park This easy and pleasant walk with universal access incorporates a 200m boardwalk. At the top you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coast and across to the city and Kings Park. Reabold Hill is the highest natural point on the Swan Coastal Plain.

Photography Tourism WA

Cape to Cape Track, South West This South West walk trail is 135km but it can be accessed at many different points for those who only want to complete a short walk. The spectacular trail mostly follows the coast with some inland loops and runs between the Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin lighthouses. The not-for-profit group Friends of the Cape to Cape Track can provide guide books and more information.

82 Horizons October / November 2016

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We are excited to announce that our travel insurance offering is now better than ever. The enhanced product now covers more pre-existing medical conditions^, has competitive pricing and new policies types to choose from. > International Comprehensive: Relax and enjoy your holiday with RAC’s premium travel insurance.

Provides a wide range of benefits and the highest level of cover. > International Essentials: Low cost with great coverage. Be protected against unexpected medical costs, cancellations, lost or damaged luggage, and personal liability from the minute you step out your door until you return home. > Domestic Travel: Cover your luggage, rental car excess and the risk of cancellation or disruption when travelling within Australia. > Medical Only: There’s nothing more important than your health. Enjoy unlimited medical protection# travelling overseas.

cover also assists you to find treatment and if necessary, medical evacuation. > Cover for your family: Your kids and grandkids are covered for free up to 25 years and not working fulltime*. And we’ll get your dependants home safely if you can’t. > Cancellation & lost deposits cover: If you have to cancel or rearrange your travel as a result of an unforseen event, your policy provides cover for either cancellation or amendment fees, whichever is the lesser. > Emergency expenses: Cover for emergency additional accommodation and transport expenses if your journey is disrupted due to a natural disaster or serious weather event.

save

15

> Rental Car insurance excess: If your hire a car and happen to have an accident, cover is included for the excess on your Rental Car insurance policy. > Cover for pre-existing medical conditions: We automatically cover 38 pre-existing medical conditions^ and will quote for all other conditions. > Simple and easy claims: Simple and hassle-free claims process with no complicated forms with our Australian based team. > New for old luggage replacement > Optional add-on winter sport and ski cover > 21 day cooling off period: You can cancel your policy if you have a change of heart and are yet to leave or make a claim.

> Annual Multi-trip: Best value policy for those travelling more than once a year. It will save you time and money. > Car Rental Excess: If you’re renting a car or campervan, get cover for your rental excess and don’t risk unexpected costs if your vehicle is stolen or damaged.

Enjoy great benefits > Members save 15%: We’ve increased our member saving from 10% to 15% so you save even more. > 24/7 overseas emergency assistance: Our Australian team of emergency assistance experts with a global network of doctors, nurses and logistical staff is available 24 hours per day. > $unlimited medical cover#: Unlimited medical cover for overseas hospital, medical, surgical, nursing, dental and ambulance expenses. Our medical

Find out more rac.com.au/travelinsurance or call 1300 655 179 Limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please refer to the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement available from RAC before making a decision about this insurance. This insurance is issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd (Tokio Marine & Nichido) ABN 80 000 438 291, AFSL 246548. R.A.C. Travel Services Pty. Limited (ABN 17 009 164 176, AR NO. 228577) is an authorised representative of Tokio Marine & Nichido. Its managing agent, Tokio Marine Management (Australasia) Pty. Ltd. ABN 69 004 488 455 (TMMA) is authorised to act on behalf of Tokio Marine & Nichido to issue its policies and handle and settle claims in relation to those policies, subject to the terms of the authority. ^Conditions are automatically covered providing certain criteria is met. #Medical cover will not exceed a maximum of 12 months from the time you first received treatment for the injury or illness. *Children and Grandchildren are covered for free provided they do not require medical assessment. Members save 15% off the standard rate.

R15118

Photography Tourism WA

RAC Travel Insurance, now even better

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5/07/2016 12:08:52 PMPM 8/09/2016 2:09

Over 600,000 members trust us for insurance and enjoy the benefits That’s the power of membership

RINS0533_1

With RAC Insurance you’re automatically an RAC member, so you’ll enjoy great member benefits like savings on entertainment, shopping and more.

Call 1300 736 143 to find out more Over 600,000 Western Australians insured under RAC Insurance policies. Issued by RAC Insurance Pty Ltd. Check the PDS at rac.com.au for details.

Member Benefit Terms and Conditions apply.

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