Horizons 2017 August/September by The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc.)

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

Your RAC magazine August / September 2017

Wild and wonderful

The world’s greatest wildflower spectacle right here in WA Cars West Aussies loved in the ’60s What’s the real cost of running your car? A foodie’s guide to the Eyre Peninsula

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Horizons

Inside

Your RAC magazine August / September 2017

Editor Vanessa Pogorelic Managing Editor Lucy Siebert Publisher Samantha Orb Designer Glenn Moffatt Advertising Des McNamara (WA only) tel: 08 9388 7844 des@mediatonic.com.au Kerri Spillane tel: 03 8520 6444 kerrispillane@hardiegrant.com.au

20 Blooming

Horizons is published for The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) by Hardie Grant Media Building 1, 658 Church Street Richmond VIC 3121 Australia hardiegrant.com.au

beautiful A road trip to see WA’s unique wildflowers.

CAB audited as at March 2017 is 553,127

Cover image: Pompom Head wildflower (Mogens Johansen/Westpix) 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.

How much?

To the rescue

FAQs answered

Our annual survey lifts the lid on how much it really costs to run your car.

The WA family who has twice been airlifted by the RAC Rescue helicopters.

We tackle some of the most common questions RAC members ask about their cars.

4 Horizons August / September 2017

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Inside

your Horizons 62 Member Lounge

Cars we loved in the ’60s

Get pet insurance for your best friend; top 10 items stolen in home burglaries; countdown on to the RAC Christmas Pageant; holiday fun at RAC Parks and Resorts, Camps 9 guidebook giveaway and an exclusive tour of India.

Dive into the Eyre Peninsula

Take a river cruise through Portugal

New cars on the road

Regulars

Travel

Move

7 President’s message

17 What’s on

26 The big reveal

Great events around WA.

2017 car running costs survey.

20 Flower power

30 Blast from the past

Northern Wheatbelt trip.

Cars we loved in the 1960s.

43 Travel brief

55 What’s new

Time to ditch the mobile phone distraction.

8 Mailbox Members’ letters.

9 Exchange Your views.

12 Snapshot

News from RAC Travel.

The latest news in motoring.

45 Delicious discovery

56 Car reviews

News from RAC.

Eyre Peninsula seafood tours.

Putting new cars to the test.

82 The 10 best

50 Douro delights

61 Car doctor

Discover Portugal’s riverways.

Your questions answered.

Public artworks in WA.

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

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

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and make the most of your RAC membership

rac.com.au/memberbenefits

August / September 2017 Horizons 5

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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 8, Stirlings Central Shopping Centre, 54 Sanford St. Kalgoorlie: 51-53 Hannan St. Mandurah: Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Way. 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 Way. 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

We need to ditch the mobile phone distraction It is hard to understand how many WA drivers seem to think that using their mobile phone while driving is acceptable. It isn’t, because the reality is that inattention on our roads is deadly. Travelling at 50km/h and looking at a phone for just two seconds means a person has travelled 27 metres without even looking at the road. On average it takes around five seconds to read a text message, therefore reading a text while travelling at 100km/h on the freeway is the same as driving blindfolded for 138 metres, which is almost the length of the MCG. RAC patrols see this every day and when asked what sort of unsafe road user behaviour was typically encountered, mobile phone usage topped the list, with 95 per cent of RAC patrols reporting they have seen drivers being distracted by the use of mobile phones. More than half of WA’s young drivers also admit to driving while sending a text message or email, and just over a third admit to driving while talking on the phone. Despite the myth, the need to reach for the mobile phone is not only limited to younger drivers. More than a third surveyed say they have seen their parent or guardian drive while talking on the phone, and 20 per cent have seen their parent or guardian text while driving. This culture needs to change because, on average, one person is killed on WA roads every two days. In 2016, WA experienced its worst road fatality rate in eight years. Thousands more experience serious injuries every year.

In 2013, RAC launched the world’s first Attention Powered Car to raise awareness about the deadly impact of inattention on our roads. The Attention Powered Car featured a neuro headset that connects brain activity to the car’s engine via customised software. When the driver’s level of attention drops, the car safely slows down, alerting the driver to their lapse in concentration. The Attention Powered Car highlighted how quickly we can lose concentration behind the wheel. It also started a discussion and much needed work towards discovering solutions to try to help save lives and stop serious injuries on our roads. What this initiative also highlighted is that we continually fail to understand that we are actually in control of our own actions while behind the wheel, yet we are not in control of the consequences of our decision. Almost four years on, this culture of inattention continues to have a deadly impact on our roads. While resisting the temptation to reach for the mobile phone may sound easy for some, the evidence shows that we are clearly unable to “ditch” this deadly distraction.

Tony Evans RAC President

Your RAC Council Club Patron Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC, Governor of Western Australia President Tony Evans Senior Vice President Jacqueline Ronchi Vice President Ross Dowling Members of Council Dennis Banks, Esme Bowen, Freda Crucitti, Jill Darby, Dalton Gooding, Alden Halse, Murray Lampard, Stephanie Proud, Elizabeth Re, Emmerson Richardson, Tim Shanahan, Julie Wadley. August / September 2017 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 Deadly distractions Possibly one of the biggest curses on our roads is the use of mobile phones. The number of accidents caused by drivers using their phones while driving could even be a lot higher than what is reported. One solution could be to impound drivers’ phones for 30 days and make the fine worthy of the offence. On a recent 10km drive, I saw four drivers who were reading messages or talking on their phones.

Our winning letter

Des Moore

Embrace electric cars

Outback 4x4 crossing

An important issue that should be raised in Parliament and the wider community as a matter of urgency is why Australia is one of the most unenlightened developed countries in the world when it comes to providing incentives for electric vehicles (EVs). We are the world’s least encouraging country for EVs despite the ‘in your face’ economic benefits of cleaner air in our cities, less spending on health, better balance of trade figures and reduction in reliance on foreign oil. There are many reasons for providing incentives for EVs. RAC has a real commitment to EVs, which can be seen by its long-term investment in a chain of South West charging hubs where EV motorists can recharge. Now is the time for Australia’s leaders to embrace EVs as they are the future of motoring. However, this can only come from motoring and environmental organisations pushing the government for a change of policy on EV incentives.

The article ‘A World of Adventure Awaits’ (June / July, Horizons) brought back memories of our around Australia family adventure 40 years ago. Of particular interest was your advice about the dangers of driving through water. We were driving a ’67 Falcon station wagon and towing a 14ft Baravan. After Darwin, we travelled east to the East Alligator River. When we came to Jim Creek, we came across three Bobtail LandCruisers towing caravans, all side by side with their noses almost in the water, barring our way. I approached the group and asked if they were going through. As there were no positive replies to suggest some impending activity, I asked if they could make way for us to go through. My wife walked the crossing in the left-hand track, returning in the right. She then stood in the right-hand track, indicating for me to enter the water directly towards her, not in the wheels ruts, but either side of them. The three Bobtails and their cargo soon came

Stuart Coleman

8 Horizons August / September 2017

through the water, passed us and very quickly left us in their dust. We sometimes wonder if we hadn’t arrived when we did, just how long those Toyota Bobtails would have waited.

WIN free roadside assistance for one year

Rob Cairns

Common-sense approach I enjoyed your article about electric personal transporters (April / May Horizons). I feel that Australia is very behind in regards to the use of these vehicles – in particular the laws about where they can be used and maximum speeds. I believe there needs to be a bit of common sense applied. I find it difficult to understand why there is a need to restrict the speed of these transporters so severely. A non-motorised kick scooter can easily exceed 10km/h especially downhill with little or no brakes. And, what about bicycles? It’s time to look at countries that have far more crowded pathways, such as Singapore. These countries have embraced electric personal transporters such as e-scooters and put sensible laws in place to manage them. Stuart Pestana

Each issue, the author of the best letter will win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance, which gives motorists additional peace of mind by offering a range of extended benefits.

For assistance or more information

call 13 17 03 or visit rac.com.au.

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

Exchange Feedback, opinion and fast facts RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

BELTING UP

In the past 12 months, when catching a taxi in WA, did you choose a traditional taxi or a fee-based ridesharing service or have you used both?

1 million

Traditional taxi 32% Fee-based ridesharing service 34%

Both 50%

TAXI??

I have not caught a taxi in WA in the past 12 months 10%

The number of lives Volvo estimates have been saved by seatbelts since they were introduced in cars in 1959.

MISSING THE MARK

RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

100 km/h

Tell us …

Checking your phone for five seconds while driving at 100km/h is like driving the length of the MCG blindfolded.

facebook.com/racwa

twitter.com/racwa

We’d like your opinion about rooftop solar power systems and where you’d like to see more of WA’s renewable energy coming from.

Take our poll at rac.com.au/exchange Poll closes 24 August 2017

Exchange your views by email: editor@rac.com.au

August / September 2017 Horizons 9

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Immersed in Culture The vast region of Arnhem Land is richly endowed with a culture that is more than 60,000 years old, making it the oldest surviving culture in human history. As part of this adventure, you’ll enjoy authentic cultural experiences and activities with Indigenous guides and Traditional Owners, learning about this sacred and mystical land from those who know it best.

Incredible Activities Enjoy a host of incredible activities throughout the journey, including marine adventures in Port Essington, Barramundi Fishing at Maningrida, a historical tour at Victoria Settlement and guided rock art tours at Davidson’s Arnhem Land Safaris, Mount Borradaile. You’ll be escorted by knowledgeable and experienced guides and skippers throughout the journey.

Luxury Safari Lodges With permission from Traditional Owners and the NLC, Outback Spirit has created an exquisite network of luxurious safari camps and lodges throughout Arnhem Land. Established in idyllic locations, these camps and lodges have made possible this extraordinary new adventure from Nhulunbuy in the east, to Seven Spirit Bay on the Cobourg Peninsula.

Number of Nights Scenic Flight 4WD Track

Tour Highlights & Inclusions • Travel through the heart of Arnhem Land and immerse yourself in the world’s oldest surviving culture • Learn from Indigenous guides who’ll share their knowledge and stories about their country • Take a fascinating journey back to 1838 on a historical tour of the old Victoria Settlement • Fish for Barramundi on a marine adventure of the Liverpool and Tomkinson Rivers • Discover the rich marine life of the Cobourg Marine Park Sanctuary on a cruise to Port Essington

• Cruise pristine swamps, creeks & billabongs in small groups • Spend 2 nights at Mount Borradaile and discover ancient rock art sites and the ‘catacombs’ • Discover the frontier town of Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula • Visit authentic art centres, including Buku Larrnggay Mulka at Yirrkala. Learn about the Yirrkala bark petitions that started the Aboriginal Land Rights movement in 1963 • Spend 6 nights in Outback Spirit’s luxurious wilderness lodges • Fully inclusive of all meals, activities, permit fees, expert guides and scenic flight from Vashon Head to Darwin

Watch our incredible Arnhem Land video online! Go to outbackspirittours.com.au

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Declared an Aboriginal Reserve in 1931, Arnhem Land has been inhabited by Aboriginal people for more than 60,000 years. Today, the region remains a vital cultural stronghold for Indigenous Australians and an extraordinary part of the Australian continent. After extensive consultation with Traditional Owners and the Northern Land Council, Outback Spirit has created one of the most extraordinary cultural and wilderness journeys in Australia. Beginning in Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula, our new and exclusive 12-day adventure travels west through the heart of Arnhem Land. On the banks of the Arafura Swamp, you’ll spend two nights at our incredible Murwangi Safari Camp to discover the area with Traditional Owners. Then, visit Ramingining before heading further west to Maningrida for two nights at the Barramundi Lodge. After a visit to Davidson’s Arnhem Land Safaris, Mount Borradaile, you’ll then head north west to the Cobourg Peninsula for two nights at the magnificently redeveloped Seven Spirit Bay, our third luxury lodge in Arnhem Land. Throughout the journey, you’ll take part in authentic cultural activities and wilderness adventures which will leave you in awe of this sacred and mystical land. Call now and join us for an extraordinary adventure through time, culture and wilderness in 2018.

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

News in brief from the RAC & beyond

Snapshot

WA gets $2.3 billion for transport projects Denny Avenue, Kelmscott, The $1.6 billion promised to Western Australia which was nominated by for road and rail projects in the May 2017 the community as the most Federal Budget will create some much dangerous road in the state needed forward momentum towards in RAC’s Risky Roads survey, addressing congestion and the state’s will also receive federal high road fatality rate. of road fatalities funding. The funding, which forms part occurred in “Two intersections along of a $2.3 billion State and Federal regional WA in 2016 the road were also rated Government road and rail infrastructure as the second and third package for projects across the state, riskiest intersections in WA,” was welcomed by RAC. Mr Golsby said. RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs “It was pleasing to see $37.6 million Will Golsby said as part of this package allocated to implement smart freeways from $44.2 million will be provided for regional Roe Highway to Narrows Bridge, and $10 road projects to help improve road safety. million provided for planning work for the “Last year, 60 per cent of road fatalities Bunbury Outer Ring Road. occurred in regional WA. This funding “RAC also advocated strongly for the acknowledges the urgent need to address $1.2 billion previously allocated to the the devastating impact of road trauma,” Perth Freight Link to remain in WA. We’re he said. pleased this will be the case. “RAC has consistently advocated for the “It is critical that our members and the delivery of projects like the Thornlie rail line community have certainty around these and strongly welcomes federal funding for projects, including their timelines, how this project, because it will deliver a much they will be funded and when they will be needed public transport option for members delivered, and that WA receives a fair share and commuters, helping to relieve the of funding in future Federal Budgets.” pressure of congestion in the area.”

60%

Transport funding at a glance

$2.3 bn

State and Federal Government road and rail infrastructure for WA

$44.2m

for regional road projects

$37.6m

for smart freeways from Roe Highway to Narrows Bridge

$10m

for Bunbury Outer Ring Road planning work

$1.2 bn

previously allocated to Perth Freight Link to

Do you need to have your driver’s licence on you? Carrying your licence with you while driving isn’t mandatory but if you are asked to produce it by a police officer and you don’t have it, you’ll need to produce it at a police station or Department of Transport office within a “reasonable time”. This typically means the sooner you turn up and show your licence, the better. The exception is for novice drivers (L and P platers) and heavy vehicle operators, who must always carry their licence while driving.

12 Horizons August / September 2017

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Snapshot

Don’t end up with a pre-owned lemon Buying a used car through a private seller can be a great way of getting a bargain, but those with little technical knowledge of cars can risk being left with a lemon on their hands. There are a few checks you can easily make to establish whether a car is worthy of further consideration. l Bring a friend along to help pick up any issues you might not otherwise notice. l Always ask for a test-drive and ensure the car starts, idles, stops and changes gears smoothly. l It’s best to drive on varying surfaces

if possible, including winding roads and hills – often a car’s faults won’t show up until it’s put under load. l Be aware of any suspicious noises and vibrations. l While the car is stationary, look for signs of it being involved in a major crash, such as uneven gaps between body panels and varying paint shades. l Check that the tread on all tyres is at least the minimum legal depth (1.5mm), including the spare, and that the tread isn’t unevenly worn. l Lift the bonnet and look for signs of oil and coolant leaks and general wear and tear, including cracks on rubber parts.

Perth brothers eye electric car record

Perth brothers James and Peter Hill have spent years developing their own electric vehicles (EVs) and earlier this year attempted to break an Australian EV record for the number of kilometres done in a single charge over 1019km. Their Australian record prototype vehicle was a three-wheeled custom-built EV ‘monopod’. “We kept the vehicle as light as

possible in order to use as little power as possible,” James Hill said. They made an attempt in March, intending to drive through the night and swap drivers, but things did not go to plan. “Early on, the axle developed a crack,” Mr Hill said. “And we were getting electrical interference so we had to pull out.” Undeterred, they spent the next

l Check the dipstick – the oil should be

clean and shouldn’t look dark or thick. l Write down the VIN number (found

under the bonnet) and use it to check that the car has no finance owing on it, using the Personal Property Securities Register at ppsr.gov.au. If all seems in order then, ideally get a professional second opinion from your mechanic or an RAC vehicle inspection. You’ll then have a clear idea of the car’s current condition and what repairs and maintenance may be due. See some of RAC’s most frequently asked motoring questions on page 38.

James Hill with his brother Peter in the driver’s seat.

day fixing the vehicle and took it to the annual Electrikhana – an electric vehicle showcase event. They placed a bigger motor in the car and after a few issues drove it for 200km on one-third of the battery charge – the equivalent of using 0.13L of fuel every 100km. “We were pretty happy with that,” Mr Hill said. The brothers are planning another record attempt later this year. August / September 2017 Horizons 13

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5/07/2017 4:08 PM

Snapshot Alex and Joy Lindsay, winners of last year’s BMW i3 competition.

Our electric car winner one year on Alex Lindsay never imagined he’d own an electric car, but after winning a BMW i3 electric vehicle last year thanks to RAC, he’s one of a small but growing group of WA motorists going electric. After one year on the road, how has the journey been so far? “The thought that we would ever run an electric car in our lifetime was probably just beyond our imagination, but it’s wonderful, it really is. Both my wife and I just enjoy driving it so much.

“It’s a very different driving experience - it’s very quiet. We often talk about the sheer enjoyment of driving it. “The BMW i3 has tremendous acceleration. People who have driven it thought it was amazing. “We don’t do a lot of high-volume driving, so the car is ideal for the city. I tend to plug it in to charge in the afternoon because we’ve got solar panels on the roof, so we benefit from that. Probably one or two kilowatts is

being used to charge the battery in the afternoon. “We certainly notice a big difference compared to fuel consumption; even with the electricity, our bills are way down. “I would certainly say that if you can cover your capital costs (purchase of the vehicle) and you’re doing city driving, it’s ideal. It’s certainly economical and that’s important these days.”

RAC Council election alert The next issue of Horizons will contain an election supplement (including a ballot paper) that will allow eligible voting members of The Royal Automobile Club of WA (RAC) to cast their vote in the 2017 RAC Council election. Please note: only those persons who are Honorary Life Members, Gold Life Members or Personal Members (who

have paid their subscriptions in full for the applicable period of membership) as at the date 28 days prior to the date of the annual general meeting, are eligible to vote. Other members, including Red Card, Rewards (previously known as Affiliate), free2go, child & youth, fleet and national assistance programme members are not eligible to vote. If you are an eligible voting member and if you have not received a copy of

the election supplement by 13 October 2017, you can request one by visiting an RAC Member Service Centre, emailing councilelections@rac.com.au, calling us on 9436 4389 or by visiting rac.com.au and using the ‘Contact Us’ link. Where there is more than one eligible voting member in a household, one election supplement will be included with Horizons, with further copies being sent separately (by later post).

14 Horizons August / September 2017

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considered a whinger. And I’d done some shooting in the Army Cadets, without much consideration of hearing protection. As the owner of a business called Hills Landscaping Supplies & Earthworks in the Perth Hills, this means I’m still working in a noisy environment when out in the yard. It used to be really concerning that I had trouble hearing on the landline and using my mobile. But since I’ve been fitted with hearing aids, my life’s changed dramatically. Sally and the kids are happy because I put my hearing aids in first up and leave them in all day, without any hassle. No more feeling like a social outcast who can’t have a conversation with anyone. Now I can easily project manage our jobs and using the Bluetooth function is fantastic because this makes talking on the phone easily achievable. I thoroughly recommend that you see the people at Brad Hutchinson Hearing if you’ve got hearing troubles. Sally does too. Chris Mitchell

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UPCOMING CONCERTS WITH WASO ASHER FISCH CONDUCTS SCHUBERT’S THE GREAT

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FRI 13 & SAT 14 OCT 7.30PM

FRI 18 & SAT 19 AUG 7.30PM

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Schubert’s ‘Great’ C Major Symphony is considered his greatest symphonic achievement – a work of driving power and lyrical beauty. Impressive young Australian pianist Jayson Gillham makes his WASO debut with Schumann’s Piano Concerto.

Vaughan Williams’ Fifth Symphony is imbued with delicate lyricism and orchestral colour. Saint-Saëns’ stormy First Cello Concerto erupts with unique and imaginative melodies and is brought to life by world-renowned artist Li-Wei Qin.

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FRI 6 & SAT 7 OCT 7.30PM

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In a concert of fantastical tales and exotic colours, Karin Schaupp performs Rodrigo’s popular guitar concerto, described by the composer as capturing “the fragrance of magnolias, the singing of birds, and the gushing of fountains.”

Popular stars of ABC KIDS Lah-Lah and Buzz present an educational and interactive musical show with lots of singing and dancing! Meet some new instrument friends with all the action on a big screen!

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INSPIRING WAGNER

WAGNER & BEYOND Come on an adventure with WASO’s Principal Conductor and one of the world’s foremost Wagnerians, Asher Fisch, to find out more about this ambitious, innovative and provocative composer who changed the course of music forever. Asher Fisch will speak about the music during the concerts and the Orchestra will perform excerpts to illustrate his observations of Wagner’s revolutionary style.

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16 Horizons August / September 2017

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FRENCH CONNECTIONS

MASTERS SERIES

WED 6 SEPT 7.30PM

Perth Concert Hall

Tickets from $32* INTRODUCED ON STAGE BY ASHER FISCH

WASO.COM.AU

WAGNER’S WORLD

SAT 9 SEPT 7.30PM

Perth Concert Hall

Tickets from $32*

CALL 9326 0000

QUOTE 1854

Asher Fisch appears courtesy of Wesfarmers Arts.*A one-off handling fee of $5.50 per transaction applies to all purchases on our website. A fee of $6.60 applies to phone and mail bookings. A fee of $3.85 applies to over the counter bookings. An additional fee of $4.40 per transaction applies for delivery via Registered Post.

5/07/2017 4:13 PM

What’s on

 Events around the state in August and September Shinju Matsuri 2–10 September

Shinju Matsuri is one of Australia’s most famous cultural festivals and celebrates Broome’s pearl industries. It highlights the town’s diverse cultures of Japanese, Malaysian, Chinese and Indigenous Australians through unforgettable food, community and cultural events. shinjumatsuri.com.au

Newdegate Field Days 6–7 September

National Ballooning Championships 2–9 September

All eyes will be on the sky when Australia’s ballooning community gathers in Northam for a week of spectacular flying in the picturesque Avon Valley. In addition to flying competitions, which are free for spectators, there will also be a range of community and family friendly events. northamnationals.com

Perth City to Surf for Activ 27 August 2017

Get active by walking or running a variety of distances to raise money for the Activ Foundation, which supports people living with disabilities in WA. perthcitytosurf.com

Dowerin Field Days Right Wrongs: 1967 Referendum – the WA Story Until 3 September

This free exhibition at the State Library of WA explores the 1967 Referendum through the voices and stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It features oral histories, images and stories from the library’s collection. slwa.wa.gov.au

The Nannup Flower & Garden Festival 17–20 August

The South West’s four-day garden festival focuses on

how gardens can be both beautiful and productive. With more than 100 garden and craft stalls, visitors are sure to leave filled with new ideas.

30–31 August

This celebration of cinema in the South West celebrates its 10th birthday this year, showcasing mainly Australian films and creating a special cultural experience.

Each year, the small Wheatbelt community of Dowerin swells from a population of a few hundred to more than 25,500 over this two-day event. With a record number of exhibitors expected, this year’s event promises to be bigger than ever. Exhibitions range from farm machinery to rural services, information technology to lifestyle and leisure products. RAC will be there with the RAC Rescue Experience — a virtual reality mission on board the RAC Rescue helicopters.

cinefestoz.com

dowerinfielddays.com.au

nannupgardens.org.au

CinefestOZ Film Festival 23–27 August

Since 1973 this iconic event has grown, with more than 300 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors each year. With machinery, technology, animals, arts, fashion, show bags, food and wine, local produce and much more, there’s something for everyone. You can also take to the skies with virtual reality on board the RAC Rescue Experience. nfday.com.au

Veteran Car Club Rally 10–16 September

RAC is a proud sponsor of Rally West 2017, a seven-day veteran car rally event in Geraldton and around the Mid West. More than 150 vehicles from across Australia and the world will take part, and the community will have the chance to look at the vehicles at an open day on Wednesday 13 September. veterancarclubofwa.asn.au

Perth Upmarket 17 September

Perth Upmarket, the city’s premier quarterly market for original and handcrafted wares, brings together over 180 of Perth’s most talented artists, designers, craftsmen and gourmets under one roof at the University of WA’s Winthrop Hall. perthupmarket.com.au August / September 2017 Horizons 17

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wildflowers

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er w ers flo ow ild fl w il d O w AG GO ur #A yo g s t s in Po s u c pi

SurpriSe… Spring already starting to bloom!

With the warmer than usual lead up to winter, some wildflowers are already starting to bloom. wreath flowers are now starting to flower near Pindar and orchids are starting to flower at Wave Rock. With our unusual warmer weather, it may be a ‘crazy’ wildflower season, so we suggest you start planning your self drive wildflower experience holiday now through Australia’s Golden Outback.

Gascoyne Murchison Fields of everlastings each year burst into colour across the region from late July. Spectacular fields of yellow, pink and white across station country. This area is also famous for Mount Augustus, Australia’s largest rock, twice the size of Uluru. To make travel easy region through the area, just obtain a copy of the Gascoyne-Murchison Outback Pathways with three magnificent self-drive routes. www.outbackpathways.com.au For wildflower locations call: Mount Magnet Visitor Centre (08) 9963 4172.

Wheatbelt From mid August flowers start blooming further south in the Wheatbelt. Make sure you visit the northern towns of Morawa, Moora, Dalwallinu and Wongan Hills. The Central Wheatbelt and Southern Wheatbelt also have extensive wildflowers and selfdrive itineraries can be found on australiasgoldenoutback.com. For wildflower locations call: Dalwallinu Discovery Centre (08) 9661 1805 Wongan Hills VC (08) 9671 1973 Central Wheatbelt VC (08) 9041 1666 Dryandra Country VC (08) 9881 2064.

Goldfields

Esperance & The Coast

Renowned for its majestic western woodlands, vast salt lakes and gold rush history, traditionally from mid August wildflowers will start blooming. To explore this fascinating region purchase your copy of the Golden Quest Discovery Trail Guidebook. www.goldenquesttrail.com or download the new Golden Quest Discovery Trail app.

From September through October it’s peak season for the southern outback coast. Spectacular coastal areas such as the Fitzgerald River National Park near Hopetoun will bloom with its unique royal hakea. Cape Le Grande and Cape Arid National Parks east of Esperance will also burst into flower. Now is the time to start planning your wildflower trip along the Golden Outback’s southern coast region.

For wildflower locations call: Kalgoorlie Boulder Pure Gold Visitor Center (08) 9021 1966 Laverton Great Beyond Visitor Centre (08) 9031 1361.

For wildflower locations call: Esperance Visitor Centre (08) 9083 1555.

For more details or a free copy of Australia’s Golden Outback Holiday Planner or Wildflower Guide contact WA Visitor Centre 1300 361 351 or visit australiasgoldenoutback.com August / September 2017 Horizons 49

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Update

Our driverless shuttle bus trial still on track

Since September 2016, Australia’s first trial of driverless vehicle technology has been quietly unfolding on the South Perth foreshore. The RAC Intellibus™ is a fully electric and driverless shuttle bus with no steering wheel, accelerator, brake pedal or gear stick. In terms of complexity, the RAC trial is one of the most progressive autonomous shuttle trials in the world. As at 1 May 2017, the RAC Intellibus™ had completed more than 350 trips carrying members of the public on a circuit along the South Perth foreshore. To detect and avoid obstacles and keep its precise geographic location the Intellibus™ uses a combination of light detection and ranging (LIDAR), stereovision cameras, GPS, odometry and autonomous emergency braking. The RAC Intellibus™ is supported by the State Government and the City of South Perth. To find out more about the bus and the trial, visit intellibus.rac.com.au.

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Travel

Flower power Home to one of the greatest wildflower shows on earth, Western Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s northern Wheatbelt makes for ideal road tripping. by Jo Stewart

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Travel

alph Waldo Emerson once wrote, “The earth laughs in flowers” and here, in the northern Wheatbelt of Western Australia, the earth is positively hysterical. Big, botanical belly laughs echo throughout the region every spring, and being only a few hours’ drive north of Perth, this is a region made for road tripping. Driving around wildflower country in spring is like a dream. You can hardly set a foot wrong with WA being home to a whopping 12,000 species of wildflowers. Sharing the trip with two friends who also happen to be botanists makes for an even dreamier experience. Apart from having extra drivers to share the load, I’ve got handy inside knowledge (and a little flower fanaticism) on hand, too.

Hitting the road Picking up our Apollo Motorhome rental from Perth under a blue sky, the weather is a good omen for a wildflower viewing trip. Checking out our wheels and home for the next four days, we’re collectively impressed with our accommodation and transport.

Grass trees.

Donkey orchid.

Things have come a long way since my introduction to caravans back in the 1980s and my grandfather’s rusty white caravan being hooked onto the back of his petrol-guzzling Chrysler Valiant. Flash forward, and I’m driving a motorhome complete with a TV and DVD player, microwave, fridge, shower, toilet and stove. Apollo’s Euro Deluxe motorhome sleeps up to six people and has everything (and I mean absolutely

everything) you need for life on the road. Heading off with the Wheatbelt Shire of Coorow, north of Perth, in our sights, we stop off halfway along the Great Northern Highway at the Benedictine community of New Norcia. While not a wildflower hotspot, it’s hard to drive past Australia’s first and only monastic town without stopping. While guests can choose to do a tour or join the nuns and monks in prayer, we chose to walk around the grounds, admiring the impressive stone buildings that date back as far as the mid-1800s. The gift shop yields some incredible foodie finds, with New Norcia upholding the monastic tradition of slow food production. There are nut cakes, biscotti and loaves of bread all baked in the on-site century-old wood-fire oven, and award-winning bottles of cold pressed olive oil using olives from the grove established in the 1850s.

Our first big “wow” wildflower moment comes on the way to Coorow with a pictureperfect meadow of thousands of everlasting daisies.

Wildflowers ahead Onwards to Coorow, the landscape gives way to salt pans, wheat farms and wildflowers. As one of the most botanically diverse places on the planet, plants grow everywhere here – in sand, soil, gravel, on roadside verges and ▼

Trigger plant.

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Travel

Driving around wildflower country in spring is like a dream. You can hardly set a foot wrong with WA being home to a whopping 12,000 species of wildflowers.

Wattlebird and banksia.

out of cracks in the bitumen road. Over eons, the hardy flora of Western Australia have evolved to make the most of the difficult conditions and now bring flocks of wildflower enthusiasts to admire their beauty between July and November each year. Our first big “wow” wildflower moment comes on the way to Coorow with a picture-perfect meadow of thousands of everlasting daisies. Native to Western Australia, these flowers are easy to spot thanks to their vibrant yellow hue. Pulling over to the side of the road, we join others in admiring nature at its absolute finest. But it’s not all about the flowers around here. A little further down the road, spooked roos bound away, whistling kites circle above patiently waiting for a feed, and sulphur-crested cockatoos screech from atop towering salmon gums. A Wheatbelt stalwart, salmon gums are named for the blush-pink tinge the bark takes on in the warmer months. While not considered a showstopper like the neon yellow wattle trees of the western Wheatbelt, salmon gums are, in a more subdued way, every bit as pretty. Council-owned Coorow Caravan Park is the humble spot we decide to rest our

▼

Red and green kangaroo paw.

Everlasting daisies.

steel steed for the night. After paying the modest caravan park fee at the general store in town, we head off on foot to the historic Coorow Hotel for a well-earned dinner. In a quiet town of about 160 people, there’s not much going on (apart from some intense footy watching at the pub), so we hit the hay early.

Local delights The following morning, we head west towards the town of Eneabba, admiring tufts of grey smokebush on the way. While there are powered caravan parks a little way out of town, it’s hard to go past the Eneabba Recreation Centre off Eneabba Drive. A short stroll from the Sands Tavern, this unpowered site will set you back a fiver for the night. No country town in Australia is complete without a local watering hole, and the Sands Tavern is a classic slice of Australiana set in the heart of Eneabba. With a resident pet magpie out the back, a bobtail lizard sitting on the bar and the AFL playing on the TV, it doesn’t get much more Western Australian than this. The owner lets us know of some wildflower viewing spots only a few minutes’ drive from the pub, none of

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Northern Wheatbelt flower favourites Red and green kangaroo paw The floral emblem of Western Australia can be found all over the northern Wheatbelt in spring. Banksias Western Australia is home to more than 80 varieties of banksia, and while there’s a large concentration in the south, many varieties can be found throughout the north. Orchids From spider orchids to donkey orchids, 400 species of orchid can be found in WA. Wreath flowers An unusual, low-growing plant with a Christmas wreath-like appearance. Don’t forget, RAC members save 50 per cent off National Park passes. Visit rac.com.au/ onlineshop.

Wreath flowers.

which were on our radar, which goes to show how valuable in-the-know locals are when you’re an out-of-towner on the hunt for wildflowers.

Expert knowledge Hunting for flowers is the name of the game when you’re in the company of botanists. Apart from having pairs of eagle eyes that can spot species from some 30 paces, travelling with botanists allows me to appreciate the species that get less attention from novices like myself who fawn over carpets of pretty paper daisies but are oblivious to the other wonders of the botanical world hidden in plain sight. As we explore the surrounds of Coorow, I’m shown a small, unassuming plant called a trigger plant that responds to our touch with a miraculous flick and delicate, green orchids that manage to thrive in rust red soil by the side of the highway. Black kangaroo paw might not look like much from the window of our motorhome, but up close it’s a curious sight to behold. How often do you see a plant with black and lime green flowers?

Best of both worlds Heading west along the CoolimbaEneabba Road, we pass Lake Indoon and drive to where the wildflowers meet the sea. Stopping in at the coastal town of Leeman for a walk along the beach, we then head south, hugging the big blue expanse of the Coral Coast all the way along Indian Ocean Drive. It’s along this scenic stretch that we get the best of both worlds, with the ocean to the right and banksia-filled Beekeepers Nature Reserve to the left. The Indian Ocean Drive reveals town after town made for lazy days in the sun. In Green Head, Dynamite Bay lives up to its name with explosive views of the coast, the perfect backdrop for fish and chips. A hit with fishermen, Jurien Bay delivers equally astounding views, while nearby Lesueur National Park is home to an impressive concentration of native plant and animal species. Walking the 2.5km Gardner Trail, we see a staggering array of wildflowers up close without breaking a sweat. Home to more than 900 plant species, you’ll see everything from orchids to grass trees in the low heath. If you want to stay in your vehicle, the 18km one-way scenic drive through ▼

Spider orchid.

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Travel

▼

the park reveals a palette of colours straight out of a watercolour painting.

Overnight in Cervantes Driving further south we choose to bunker down for the night at the RAC Cervantes Holiday Park. Right on the beach, the holiday park underwent a significant upgrade and expansion last year with new self-catering

Black kangaroo paw might not look like much from the window of our motorhome, but up close it’s a curious sight to behold.

villas, swimming pool and children’s playground area, as well as caravan and camping sites. We meet many others drawn to the region for all sorts of reasons including wildflower viewing, lobster-eating, fishing and visiting those intriguing rock formations – the Pinnacles. Settling in under our motorhome awning as the afternoon sun slips away, we snack on cheese and biscuits and discuss our favourite flower sightings of the day. Heading back to Perth the next day, we stop first at the Yanchep National Park to see the resident koalas, then head to craft beer producer Swan Valley’s Feral Brewery for a snack. Apart from the tap room, there’s a big, breezy verandah with vineyard views and a restaurant serving fried chicken and chicken-fat potatoes, so even the designated driver for the day (who happens to be me) is happy … almost as happy as a botanist travelling in wildflower country. ●

Save up to 20% Members save up to 20 per cent off room rates and sites at the four RAC Parks and Resorts along the Coral Coast: RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park, Ningaloo Reef Resort and RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort. The offer is also available at RAC Busselton Holiday Park. Visit parksandresorts.rac.com.au.

Fast facts

Buy a guide Not everyone can travel with an expert, so bring along native plant, bird and reptile guides. You’ll get so much more out of your journey if you know what species you’re looking at.

Bring cash Credit cards aren’t always a payment option at national parks, so keep cash on hand to pay your entry fee.

Safety first Pulling over to stop and view wildflowers needs to be done in a careful, considerate way. Ensure you only stop in areas where it’s safe to do so, and check the road before hopping out.

Ask a local While the internet has an answer to just about everything, local knowledge trumps trawling the web. Ask locals for tips on everything from local wildflower hotspots to where to get the best steak in town.

For your eyes only It’s illegal to pick native wildflowers without a permit, so admire with your eyes only.

Touring and wildflower updates To book a guided wildflower tour contact your nearest RAC Travel Centre. We also stock a limited number of wildflower guides for members. And, to help you make the most of the season, check our wildflower hub page for the latest information on the best places to go and how to get there. Visit rac.com.au/wildflowers.

Black kangaroo paw.

Explore with Apollo Motorhomes Apollo Motorhomes has the largest camper rental fleet in Australia with vehicles suitable for up to six people. Campervans give you the freedom to move between destinations without packing and unpacking.

Off the beaten track in our Apollo motorhome.

RAC members save 10 per cent on rental. To find out more and to book, visit rac.com.au/apollo.

24 Horizons August / September 2017

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N AN OT A YW VA HE ILA RE BL EL E SE Pluto “flies” Mickey’s sleigh round the tree!

with Music & Motion! Over the years the beloved Disney characters have given us countless gifts... unforgettable moments of love, laughter and imagination. Now the magic of Disney delivers all the joys of the holidays with The Wonderful World of Disney Christmas Tree. With 4 levels of rotating movement–including two separate trains, a parade of dancing princesses and dashing princes and Mickey in his sleigh with Pluto leading the way – you’ll watch as the Disney Express seems to “climb” higher up the tree. On each tier, Engineer Mickey “collects” gifts from all your favourite Disney friends. There’s Winnie the Pooh, the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, the Disney Princesses, Donald Duck, Daisy and more. Plus, 20 LED lights colourfully illuminate the ten hand-crafted, hand-painted scenes that feature over 50 Disney figurines. And, for the perfect finishing touch, this remarkable collectable plays a medley of festive holiday carols.

Features • Over 50 sculpted, hand-painted Disney characters • Four levels of rotating tree movement • Ten illuminated scenes

Exceptional value; attractively priced. The Wonderful World of Disney Christmas Tree can be yours for $299.95, payable in 5 easy payments of only $59.99, plus $19.99 postage and handling. But don’t wait! Legions of Disney lovers are expected to respond. That’s why we must limit reservations to one per customer. To reserve The Wonderful World of Disney Christmas Tree, send no money now. Just return the coupon or go online today at www.bradford.com.au/disney

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THE BRADFORD EXCHANGE Please Respond Promptly

PAY NOTHING NOW ONLINE at www.bradford.com.au/disney quoting promotion code: 93301 PHONE: Toll-Free 1300 725 103 8am-5pm E.S.T Mon – Fri

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YES! Please reserve “The Wonderful World of Disney Christmas Tree” Tree for me as described in this advertisement. I understand I need pay nothing now. Mr/Mrs/Miss/Ms First Name: Surname: Address: Postcode: Phone: Shown smaller than its impressive actual size of approx. 40.6cm high! Powered by AC Adapter (included) or 3 “AA” batteries (not included). ©Disney. Winnie the Pooh elements based on the works of A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard 14-00567-001A

For quickest delivery, order online:

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

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Email: Signature: Please allow up to 10 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance. Credit criteria may apply. Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. You must be over 18 years old to apply. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box.

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Motoring

HOW MUCH??? MUCH What it really costs to run your car

SPECIAL REPORT

New car prices are highly competitive at the moment. However, the cost of running a car is up, new RAC research finds. Discover which vehicles offer the best value for money on a weekly basis. by Toby Hagon

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Motoring

the Honda Odyssey would be the first choice,” he said of the seven-seater that costs $215.34 per week. A Chinese car, the Haval H6, was included in the survey for the first time and was found to be more affordable than its established mainstream medium SUV competition. The H6 is, however, far from perfect. “The Haval’s low drive-away pricing has pushed it to the front of the pack, but consumers should also note the H6 is considerably thirstier on fuel and more expensive to service,” says Mr Forrest. Despite using no fuel, the all-electric Tesla Model X 75D was found to be the most expensive car to own ($513.85 per week), largely because of forecast depreciation of $291 per week. Depreciation is still the single biggest cost of owning a new car, comprising 45 per cent of all costs in the first five years of ownership. Fuel accounted for 11 per cent. l

ew cars are more affordable than ever, benefiting from advanced fuel-saving measures and low interest rates on finance. But they’re costing more to own, due to increased government charges and faster depreciation. The RAC’s 2017 Vehicle Operating Costs survey shows the average running costs have increased more than $3 a week to $217.52 for 2017, the first increase to running costs since 2014. However, it wasn’t all bad news for motorists, with lower interest rates, lower average fuel prices and lower tyre costs offsetting the impact of some of the cost increases among the 137 new vehicles surveyed. Unique to WA is the way our registration costs are calculated, which is based on vehicle weight, so the choice of a heavier vehicle can dramatically affect the cost of registering it. For those looking to counter rising

costs, RAC Manager Vehicles and Fuels Alex Forrest says consumers could make the weight to registration fee link work for them by choosing smaller, lighter cars, and paying less in fixed fees. “Generally speaking, a lighter vehicle will also cost less to fuel per kilometre, though that sometimes doesn’t apply to hybrid and electric vehicles,” he said. No vehicles sneaked in under $100 a week, although the $12,990 Suzuki Celerio came the closest at $100.28 per week. The Celerio was one of three Suzukis to achieve the lowest cost across 14 different vehicle segments, covering everything from traditional passenger cars to people movers, SUVs, all-terrain off-roaders, utes and electric cars. Sports cars were also ranked for the first time, with the Mazda MX-5 Roadster emerging as fun yet affordable, estimated to cost $190.60 per week. Mr Forrest said families and those who need space are well catered for with SUVs and people movers. “For maximum space per dollar,

For a full list of vehicles, including specific models tested, visit rac.com.au/ runningcosts.

Cheapest Micro Car

Cheapest Light Car

Cheapest Small Car

SUZUKI CELERIO 5 SP MANUAL

SUZUKI BALENO GL 4 SP AUTOMATIC

KIA CERATO 6 SP AUTO

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $12,990 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $17,990 ANCAP SAFETY RATING NOT YET RATED

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $19,990 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $30.98 $12.53 $26.86

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $41.82 $14.21 $28.12

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $13.17 $1.38 $15.37

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $15.13 $2.09 $17.46

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$100.28 $5214.64

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$118.83 $6179.03

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

per week $52.30 $15.77 $22.66 per week $20.17 $1.96 $15.19 $128.04 $6658.33

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Motoring

Cheapest Sports MAZDA MX-5 ROADSTER 6 SP AUTO ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $38,097 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $77.13 $28.59 $47.51

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $19.72 $1.74 $18.99

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$193.69 $10,071.65

Cheapest Medium Car SKODA OCTAVIA 7 SP AUTO ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $30,829 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $73.70 $23.18 $40.75

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $16.02 $1.96 $17.97

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

Cheapest Large Car

Cheapest People Mover

Cheapest Small SUV

HOLDEN COMMODORE EVOKE VF 6 SP AUTO

HONDA ODYSSEY VTi MPFI CONTINUOUS VARIABLE

SUZUKI VITARA RT-S 6 SP AUTO

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $39,119 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $41,953 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $24,990 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

$173.59 $9026.59

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $95.55 $29.35 $45.54

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $88.24 $31.47 $51.17

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $58.13 $19.66 $32.89

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $23.25 $1.99 $15.40

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $21.29 $4.00 $20.87

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $16.81 $2.66 $17.89

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$211.09 $10,976.62

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$217.04 $11,285.90

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$148.03 $7697.40

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Motoring

Cheapest Medium SUV

Cheapest Large SUV

Cheapest All Terrain SUV

HAVAL H6 PREMIUM MKY 6 SP AUTO DUAL CLUTCH

SUBARU OUTBACK 2.0 DIESEL TURBO TCDI CONTINUOUS VARIABLE

MITSUBISHI PAJERO SPORT GLX 8 SP AUTO

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $29,990 ANCAP SAFETY RATING NOT YET RATED

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $43,543 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

ON-ROAD PRICE (EST) $49,548 ANCAP SAFETY RATING ★★★★★

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $76.28 $22.55 $24.34

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $86.42 $32.65 $45.46

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $96.92 $34.42 $49.43

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $30.19 $2.38 $25.05

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $18.22 $2.73 $27.62

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $23.13 $3.64 $21.42

TOTAL COST per week

$180.80

ANNUAL COST

$9401.36

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$213.10 $11,081.12

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$228.96 $11,905.82

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STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $81.15 $27.86 $46.78

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $94.19 $32.55 $47.25

STANDING COSTS Depreciation Interest On roads, Rego, Ins, RAC m/ship

per week $127.86 $36.29 $44.66

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $25.49 $1.99 $15.36

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $21.98 $2.95 $20.48

RUNNING COSTS Fuel Tyres Servicing

per week $13.51 $3.85 $24.62

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$198.64 $10,329.18

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$219.40 $11,408.75

TOTAL COST per week ANNUAL COST

$250.79 $13,041.25

August / September 2017 Horizons 29

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The cars West Aussies loved in the ’60s Eight cars we thought were a total gas. by Toby Hagon

Holden EJ The EJ changed the basic layout of a Holden in 1962 with a sleeker, more angled approach. Beneath the skin, though, there was old school thinking, with the ‘grey’ motor returning for duty, somewhat unenthusiastically. But the EJ did welcome the Premier, the most luxurious Holden to date. It was the update to the EJ, the EH, that smoothed those controversial lines and introduced the ‘red’ motor for a massive performance boost. 30 Horizons August / September 2017

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Motoring

Ford XR Falcon Pitched as the “Mustang-bred Falcon”, the XR was a big change for Ford, ushering in a V8 for the first time. Ford also took advantage of the clean sheet design to ensure the Falcon was tough enough for Australian conditions. The XR also opened a new chapter for the Australian muscle car, with the original Falcon GT, a V8 among the most legendary in Australian four-wheeled history.

Toyota Corona In the late 1950s and early ’60s, Toyota was best known for being a bit of a bush-basher thanks to the early LandCruisers. Then Toyota pushed into regular passenger cars, starting with the slow-selling Tiara, which was manufactured locally in Australia. But it was the Corona of 1965 that really started to gain momentum for Toyota as an affordable mid-sizer with unique styling … and modest performance.

If it was reliability you wanted then the Volkswagen Beetle was for you. The humpy, rear-engined little car was a hit, partly due to its success in the Round Australia trials in the late 1950s, and its fantastic value. The engine was nothing special and its handling could be outdone by a well-tuned wheelbarrow, but that didn’t matter to those who loved the years of troublefree motoring offered by the simple air-cooled design.

MGB Fresh from the curvaceous MGA came the sleeker MGB. In the ’60s MG was a brand in its prime and the MGB hit its mark, from its reasonable price to the optional electric overdrive and good handling. But complacency set in through the 1970s and MG’s reputation for innovation soured in a market that was moving fast.

▼

Volkswagen Beetle

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Motoring

Mini Forget big car, big country: the Mini was all about celebrating small. It was the right car for the right time, right down to its innovative ‘birth announcement’ printed in major newspapers, welcoming “Morris 850”, “a sturdy youngster”. The front-drive Mini had some of the cleverest packaging in any car of its era. Despite the diminutive dimensions, which made it easy and fun to drive and simple to park, there was surprising interior space with room for four people. Up to 27 people will fit, albeit less comfortably, according to the world record.

Holden HD It was all about looks with the HD of 1965, the most radically styled Holden since the original of 1948. Despite more interior space than the EH it replaced, it was the sharp-edged design of the front guards that polarised opinion and prompted Holden to make a substantial update with the HR.

Valiant AP5

Back to the

70s

In the October/November issue of Horizons, we check out the fab cars West Aussies loved in the ’70s.

See more cars West Aussies loved in the ’60s at rac.com.au/60scars.

In a land of Ford versus Holden, the AP5 was a welcome relief for those looking for more. And it delivered in everything from quality to features and space. The engine, a torquey 225ci six, was placed on an angle under the bonnet and was a winner on performance, too, while the push-button auto gear selector was a novelty.

32 Horizons August / September 2017

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Travel

When the Ford Motor Company introduced the Mustang in the Spring of 1964, this first-of-itskind “pony car” became an instant classic. You only need to say the name to conjure up an image of sporty styling and performance... with that prototypical long hood and short rear deck, the famous logo with galloping horse and red, white and blue stripes on the gas cap and steering wheel, and the cool touches of wood grain and chrome throughout the interior. Now you can pay tribute to this automotive legend with the “Mustang: An American Classic” Commemorative Watch, an officially licensed, custom design available only from The Bradford Exchange.

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27/06/2017 2:11:22 PM

Technology

Torndirrup National Park.

Virtually there WA landmarks are coming to life with cutting-edge virtual reality technology. by Rebecca Martin

tanding with the boardwalk in front of you, the sound of bush in this ancient Pemberton forest is as loud as any city. Craning your head back to take in the full magnificent height of the towering karri tree, you have to concentrate to keep your balance. It’s spectacular. Except you’re not really there. While you can hear and see the views around you, you can’t smell or touch the bush. Virtual reality (VR) is good, but not good enough to work on all the senses just yet. However, the theory is that being able to have a taste of what that experience is like will be enough for you to make a booking to go and see Pemberton for real. Nearly two years ago, it was a theory that the WA Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPAW) was willing to test. Leaping early into the technology with its Discovr WA app, DPAW made Western Australia one of the earliest tourism ‘destinations’ that can be downloaded and experienced through virtual reality stores. “We were watching the VR trend become more mainstream,” says Rod Annear, Assistant Director of Visitor Services for DPAW. “When the handsets became more readily available, particularly with Samsung giving away Gear VR headsets by Oculus with their new phones, we knew the time had come. “At about the same time, we were thinking about how we could use virtual reality, a Perth VR company called Viewport got in touch with an idea and we decided to go with it."

Virtual WA DPAW wanted its VR app to be an allencompassing experience to motivate viewers to take a real trip following their VR ‘journey’. “Most other VR tourism things are for specific places, like a castle or historic site. However, we don’t really know many others that have tried to do a whole geographic area,” says Mr Annear. “The other big difference is that about 90 per cent of the VR you see is two dimensional, so you get a 360 degree view but you get no depth. We’re using stereoscopic so you feel like you have depth and distance. “That technology is still relatively challenging to do in terms of the process. You have to get good-quality shots and take a lot of images and stitch them together to get the stereoscopic feel.”

Getting in early DPAW is also cognisant of the advantages of being first to market. “We wanted to get into it early and be one of the first tourism products in the VR store,” says Mr Annear. The Discovr WA virtual reality app brings to virtual life 35 different DPAW locations

in Perth and the South West, including Lane Poole Reserve, Pemberton Parks and ‘glamping’ sites in the South West. As well as being able to look around the location, you can hear the real sounds of each location and click through for more information. Perth VR industry specialist Adam Geoghegan says VR is increasingly being embraced by the tourism industry, because it allows consumers to try before they buy – an attractive prospect when considering a high-end holiday to a place you’ve never been before. “Tourism operators are able to give customers a close-to-reality ‘experience’ of the destination they’d like to visit before making an actual commitment to purchase it,” Mr Geoghegan says. “Recently, it’s become a feasible way for tourism marketers to demonstrate the key features of their product due to the affordability of the headsets.” For DPAW, the virtual reality test-drive has been a success, with more than 25,000 downloads of the app so far. “We’re also looking at adding a further 50 destinations, including the Pinnacles and more of Perth. In time we want to add places in the Gascoyne and Kimberley, too,” says Mr Annear. “It’s still pretty early for virtual reality and using it for tourism. We’re really happy to be a part of it at such an early stage and to see how it goes.” l Download the Discovr WA app for free from Google Play or the App Store to view through Google cardboard or another HMD device. August / September 2017 Horizons 35

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RAC Rescue helicopter

Doreen and Jim Roney, with daughter Laretta, at their property near Boyanup.

A second chance A story in Horizons about the RAC Rescue helicopter mission that saved Graeme Fry in the South West reminded Doreen and Jim Roney of the tragic coincidence that brought all their lives together that day.

36 Horizons August / September 2017

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RAC Rescue helicopter

On 15 April 2013 an RAC

Robert Frith

Rescue helicopter flew to the South West to rescue Graeme Fry as he lay trapped under his quad bike in Donnybrook. That same day, it made a trip south to rescue Doreen Roney’s husband Jim after an explosion in his farm work shed. Fourteen months later, RAC Rescue once again came to the assistance of the Roney family. Mrs Roney recounts her family’s two experiences with life and death and the RAC Rescue helicopters… “My husband Jim was the first one rescued by the ‘yellow angel’ from the area the same day as Graeme Fry. Thank God for the RAC Rescue helicopter that came to our aid, otherwise neither Ann Fry nor I would have husbands and my family would not have a father, grandfather or great-grandfather. “Jim’s accident was at 9:20am, and Graeme’s was 9:30am though the alarm wasn’t raised that Graeme was missing until much later that day, so he lay there all those hours injured and alone. Ann and I shared the waiting room of the intensive care unit at Royal Perth Hospital (RPH) for those long hours and all I had to hang on to was that if Graeme lived surely Jim would, too. “Our story started on a cool morning at our property in Elgin, near Capel. There was an explosion so loud it shook the house and was heard eight kilometres away in Capel. “The scene of the explosion was our farm work shed, which is about 100 metres from our home. “Jim, then aged 70, was about to repair the legs on a 1000-gallon fuel tank. He lit the oxy torch and suddenly the tank went up in flames. He received burns to 52 per cent of his body, along with shrapnel wounds to his left leg, throat

and hand. Surgeons later removed one of his fingers. “Within seconds, our daughter Laretta was first on the scene. What she saw to this day still haunts her. We met halfway – she was running back to the house to ring triple zero, while I was running to the shed. Jim’s shirt was still burning. I tried to pull it from him but could not move him and there were also other things burning in the shed. “I realised to keep him safe I needed to put the fire out. I began running backwards and forwards from the cattle trough for water until the fire was out. I didn’t put any of this water on Jim because it was dirty — all I could think of was infection. “I was in such shock I didn’t even think about the clean water less than 50 metres away. “Next to arrive on the scene was Jim Quilty, a family friend, then the local Elgin bush fire brigade. I will never forget the look of horror on these men’s faces. This is a small community and we all know one another. “The local St John Ambulance arrived soon after. Jim was moved by ambulance to the Elgin Hall where the RAC Rescue

helicopter picked him up. He was not expected to live, but thanks to the quick transfer by the RAC Rescue helicopter and the wonderful burns team headed by Fiona Wood at RPH, we celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary in November 2016. “Fourteen months after Jim’s accident, our family was again thrown into crisis after a second tragic event. “On 25 June 2015 we again called on the ‘angels in the sky’ – this time it was for our daughter Laretta. Her friend had driven through the stop sign at the Elgin Hall and Laretta was, unfortunately, not wearing a seat belt. Jim Quilty was first on the scene and I was called straight away. When I got there, Laretta was in shock and crawling on the ground while Bob from the Boyanup Ambulance was trying to get her to cooperate so he could strap her to a spinal stretcher. We later found out she had broken her neck. Her back was also broken along with her scapula – her injuries were extensive. Laretta was airlifted from the Elgin Hall by the RAC Rescue helicopter and again it was the quick transfer to RPH that saved her life and gave her and our family yet another chance.” l

The RAC Rescue helicopters Within 15 minutes of receiving a call out an RAC Rescue helicopter can be in the air and on its way to deliver life-saving aid to people in emergency situations. From car crashes to sea search-andrescues, mining or farm incidents and essential hospital transfers, WA’s only 24/7 emergency rescue helicopter service covers more than 95 per cent of the state’s population. Managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), the helicopters are staffed by a pilot, an air crewman and a critical care paramedic, who can provide assistance to patients in the critical first few hours after a major injury. The service was launched in 2003 with a helicopter based in Perth. This was extended in 2016 to include a second helicopter based in Bunbury.

August / September 2017 Horizons 37

Motoring

ENGINE 38 Horizons August / September 2017

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Motoring

We tackle eight of the most common questions RAC members ask about their cars.

E ROOM

August / September 2017 Horizons 39

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Motoring

Do some fuels clean your engine? Some 98 RON (Research Octane Number) petrols are claimed by their distributors to contain cleaning agents that can ‘clean your engine’ as you drive. This may be true to a very small extent, but lower octane fuels like 91 and 95 RON are just as free of impurities as 98 RON. As petrol is itself a powerful solvent, the usefulness of these cleaning agents is unclear. Any slight differences you may notice in your vehicle’s performance and economy as a result of using some 98 RON fuels is far more likely to be a result of the fuel’s higher octane.

I’m buying a new car – should I buy the extended warranty? An extended warranty is like buying an additional contract that is between you and the dealer. We advise you to read the extended warranty document thoroughly and make sure the terms and conditions suit you. For example, in some extended warranty contracts you are obliged to have the car serviced every six months and with that particular dealer. Often, the extra cost of the warranty, the limits to what it actually covers and the conditions placed on it, means it may not be worthwhile. It’s also useful to consider that the cost of an extended warranty is the provider’s estimate of what it is likely to cost them to service the warranty, plus a little more.

I’m going on holiday – should I disconnect the battery? For short holidays – less than two weeks – we do not recommend disconnecting the battery in modern vehicles. Depending on the make, model and age of your vehicle, disconnecting the battery may result in losing some of your vehicle’s computer settings. If you’re going to be away for more than two weeks, ensure the battery is fully charged before you go and, if it has removable caps, that the electrolyte level is correct. If in doubt, contact RAC or an automotive workshop for advice.

How often should I get my car serviced? When servicing a vehicle, we advise that you stick to the manufacturer’s specifications. Missing regular servicing can create small problems that may develop into mechanical issues affecting vehicle safety and efficiency, and often increase the cost of repairs down the track. A poor service record can also affect a vehicle’s resale value.

40 Horizons August / September 2017

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Motoring

What kind of fuel should I use in my car? You should use the type of fuel recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer. This information will be available in the owner’s manual and it may also be on the fuel filling flap or the cap itself. If the vehicle manufacturer specifies higher octane unleaded petrol such as 95 RON (Research Octane Number) or 98 RON, then these should be used exclusively, as recommended. Using a lower octane petrol in a vehicle designed for higher octane will result in reduced fuel economy and performance and possibly engine damage. Using a higher octane fuel than is recommended by the manufacturer (such as using 95 RON in a vehicle designed for 91 RON) may result in slightly improved fuel economy and performance. While using a higher octane fuel will cause no harm, the benefits will be minimal and will not offset the considerable extra cost. That said, many motorists still prefer the benefits of 95 and 98 octane fuels and for this reason will choose them over 91. E10 and E85 are ethanol-blended fuels. E10 may be used in many popular passenger cars, however E85 is suitable for a more limited range of vehicles. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Fuels with higher RON numbers cost more per litre, so it’s always wise to check which fuel is required before buying a new car, especially where low fuel economy figures are quoted as this may rely on a higher octane fuel.

How much is my car worth? To find the approximate value of your vehicle, you may want to use the Redbook website as a guide to its current market value. Be aware that the ‘price’ you see listed when you first enter your vehicle details may be the new car price for that vehicle. Make sure you click the “More details” button to see the current private price and trade-in price guides for your car. Visit redbook.com.au. While online resources such as Redbook can provide a guide to a vehicle’s market value, it is also recommended you look at online classified sites, which can provide an indication of the asking prices for vehicles which are of a similar year, model, variant and kilometres covered to yours. You will also be able to compare prices interstate and then use all of this information when the time comes to negotiate.

While online resources ... can provide a guide to a vehicle’s market value, it is also recommended you look at online classified sites ... Motoring Advice Line

RAC Auto Services Members save 10% on all labour costs performed by RAC Auto Services.

Members can speak to one of our motoring experts Monday to Friday between 9am and 4.30pm. Call 13 17 03 and ask for the Motoring Advice Line.

Are used cars covered under a Statutory Warranty? The Statutory Warranty applies to vehicles that have a purchase price of $4000 or more and motorcycles that cost $3500 or more and only if bought from a licensed motor vehicle dealer, not private sellers. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old and has travelled no more than 150,000km it will be covered for three months or 5000km (whichever comes first). If the vehicle is between 10 and 12 years old and has done less than 180,000km, it will be covered for one month or 1500km (whichever comes first). For motorcycles that are less than eight years old and have done under 80,000km, the cover is for three months or 5000km (whichever comes first) and if it is more than eight years old and has done more than 80,000km the motorcycle is not covered.

Should I get paint protection when buying my car? No. The quality of painting processes and rust protection has improved so much that if you look after your car, store it undercover when possible and wash and wax it regularly, you will get a good level of protection from your paint.

Expert advice provided by RAC Roadside Assistance, RAC Auto Services and our motoring advice team. August / September 2017 Horizons 41

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42 Horizons August / September 2017

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Travel brief

News and information for travellers

Are you covered for natural disasters or emergencies overseas?

Peru and Galápagos Islands Experience a timeless adventure that combines the natural wonders of the Galapagos Islands with exploration of the ancient empire of the Incas. This exciting journey from RAC Travel combines a 14-day cruise with a land-based tour itinerary and departs in July 2018.



Some of our favourite holiday destinations have been the scene of unexpected events, including hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanic ash clouds. Having the right travel insurance means you’ll be looked after wherever you are, even if disaster strikes. “It’s a little bit of money [to purchase your policy] that can save you a lot,” points out RAC Travel expert Wendy Jones. Make sure you’re covered in the event of an emergency. ■ Plan well ahead: It pays to organise your travel insurance at the same time you book your holiday. ■ Be aware: Be up to date with current travel warnings and register your travel plans with smartraveller.gov.au. ■ Know where to turn for help: If something unexpected happens while you’re overseas, let your travel insurer know as soon as possible. They should be able to help in an emergency.

Highlights include: ● 6-night Galápagos Cruise aboard Tauck expedition ship, Isabela II with no more than 40 guests ● Private shore excursions in the Galápagos Islands with expert naturalist guides – averaging two daily – for an up-close experience with some of the most unusual and intriguing species in the world ● 8 nights’ hotel accommodation, most meals and guided sightseeing in Lima, Machu Picchu, Cusco and Guayaquil

● Lunch at a Peruvian horse ranch and dinner at a colonial mansion in Lima; two nights at a 5-star, 16th-century monastery in Cusco ● Scenic train journeys to and from Machu Picchu and an overnight stay adjacent to the Citadel ● See the remarkable Incan fortress ruins of Ollantaytambo and Sacsayhuamán and the Temple of the Sun at Korikancha For more information visit rac.com.au/peru or call RAC Travel on 1300 655 179.

For instance, RAC Travel offers a 24/7 emergency assistance team, which customers are encouraged to call immediately after a catastrophe. Keep the contact number and your policy number at hand. What about terrorism? Acts of terror or war are not the same as natural disasters or emergencies and they have their own set of rules in an insurance policy. In many circumstances, such as travel to countries deemed unsafe by Smartraveller, you’re not covered for loss or injuries that arise from a terrorist act, so make sure you check travel warnings and read your policy’s fine print. To find out more about RAC travel insurance, call 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/travelinsurance.

A year’s worth of blooms Wildflower enthusiasts can have a year-long display of WA’s renowned wildflowers in their home with the RAC Travel Wildflower Calendar. The 2018 wall calendar features stunning photographs of the state’s abundant wildflowers in different regions, along with information about the wildflowers featured, where to find them and the best times to see them. We’ll let you know where you can pick up your 2018 wildflower calendar later this year.

August / September 2017 Horizons 43

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DISCOVERY More than 65 per cent of Australia’s seafood is plucked from the waters around South Australia’s spectacular Eyre Peninsula. Explore this remote and beautiful region by sampling its most delectable flavours.

’m slurping plump, just-shucked opalescent oysters while sitting in waders beside a white-clothed table that is placed in the water. It’s only then that I learn that oysters are hermaphrodites. “Mother Nature basically says, ‘okay guys, half of you have to flip it for nature,’” says Coffin Bay oyster farmer Ben Catterall, owner of Oyster Farm Tours. His colourful turns of phrase give us landlubbers a graphic sense of how

by Sue Gough Henly oysters grow and also how Aussies have devised ingenious ways to help them grow better. The saying goes that when the world is your oyster, Coffin Bay is the pearl. This nutrient-rich estuary has all the right conditions to create some of Australia’s finest oysters, which are served in our top restaurants. Nothing, however, beats savouring them at their source and learning how to shuck them in situ. Until I visited this starkly beautiful

region, I had no idea about the diversity of seafood that comes from the waters around the Eyre Peninsula. I learnt that the cold, high-nutrient waters of the Great Australian Bight are perfect for Southern Bluefin tuna, snapper, Southern rock lobsters and abalone. Spencer Gulf’s warm saline waters are ideal for prawns, calamari and blue swimmer crabs, while the swirling estuaries are superb for oysters, garfish and King George whiting. And there’s Port Lincoln

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iStockphoto

DELICIOUS

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Coffin Bay

Coffin Bay oyster farmer Ben Catterall runs tours for visitors.

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itself, the seafood capital of Australia, where tuna are ranched and mussels farmed in Boston Bay, one of the world’s largest protected natural harbours. After flying into Port Lincoln or Ceduna, visitors can enjoy a classic 400km road trip between the two towns. Alternatively, some choose to tackle the Nullarbor from Western Australia. This is a landscape of blond grain paddocks with the occasional mobs of kangaroos and emus. Along the coast are striking ochre limestone cliffs and wild scrub-dotted dunes framing one exquisite, deserted white-sand beach after another.

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“I’ve had these delicacies in Michelin-starred restaurants, but it’s so much better right out of the water here on the beach.”

Images: Sue Gough Henly; iStockphoto; South Australian Tourism Commission; Robert Lang; courtesy Oyster Farm Tours (Coffin Bay)

Travel

Here you’re surrounded by translucent aquamarine waters full of goodies, but how do you get your hands on them? There are terrific oysters and other seafood at Coffin Bay’s 1802 Oyster Bar and Bistro and you can buy a wide range of fish and shellfish at Port Lincoln’s Fresh Fish Place and Streaky Bay Seafood. There’s also enterprising locals who’ll take you to gather and guzzle sublime seafood at the source. The side order of spectacular scenery comes at no extra cost.

More Peninsula adventures

An ocean-to-plate seafood cruise

Whale watching

Rod and Simone Keogh of Eyre Peninsula Cruises offer memorable ocean-to-plate seafood culinary adventures in Streaky Bay. “Our goal is to help guests experience what we are lucky enough to enjoy in our daily lives with our family and friends,” says Mr Keogh as we head out on their state-of-the-art cruiser. Their good mate and professional chef Brock Trezona whets our appetites with oyster shooters made with vodka, Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce, complete with celery stick. Mr Keogh points out a huge leatherback turtle on our way to the crab pots. “Pull them in hard and fast or the crabs will escape,” calls Mrs Keogh, and I’m rewarded with three big bright blue swimmer crabs. Once we’re anchored near a deserted sandy beach, Mrs Keogh offers me a flute of local Lincoln Estate sparkling wine, which I juggle with a fishing rod in my hands. Within minutes I’m hauling in silvery Tommy Ruff, “the sweetest fish in the sea”, and Mr Trezona serves it both as sashimi and in a ceviche, cured with limes, onion and peppers. “I like to offer each seafood delicacy straight out of the water and then use different spices and cooking techniques so you can compare the flavours,” says Mr Trezona. Mr Keogh and I jump in the warm clear water to snorkel above sea-grass beds in search of razor fish. Later, while we try stand-up paddle boarding, Mr Trezona works his magic in the kitchen and soon we’re savouring sashimi razor fish, sublime chili crab and garfish prepared

The whale-watching season is between July and September and Fowlers Bay Eco Tours offers intimate whale watching cruises to see both southern right and humpback whales.

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Images: Sue Gough Henly; iStockphoto; South Australian Tourism Commission; Robert Lang; courtesy Oyster Farm Tours (Coffin Bay)

Travel

There are loads of other experiences on offer in the Eyre Peninsula – both in and out of the water.

Sand boarding The whole family can try their hand at sand boarding in Lincoln National Park’s soaring dunes.

Swim with dolphins and sea lions Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience is one of the only tours in the world where you can swim with both wild dolphins and sea lions. Out of Port Lincoln, Adventure Bay Charters, Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions and Calypso Star Charters all offer swimming with sea lions.

Outback history Gawler Ranges National Park is home to a vast expanse of 1.5-billion-year-old ranges, as well as pastoral stations such as Old Paney Homestead, a ruin that you’re free to explore. Take in Pildappa Rock, an otherworldly formation on the outskirts of the national park, or book an outback experience with Gawler Ranges Wilderness Safaris. August / September 2017 Horizons 47

Travel

Hunt and gather seafood safari Former farmer David Doudle, who everybody calls ‘Lunch’, came up with his idea of Goin’ Off Safaris while sitting on a tractor. “I decided it’d be fun to show people where I learnt to swim, dive, surf and spearfish.” For a farm boy, this guy sure knows a lot about the sea. Picking us up in his four-wheel drive, ‘Lunch’ heads directly onto the fine white sand of Former farmer David Doudle (left) surf casting for salmon; cockles for lunch; Drummond Bay.

Fast facts

How to get there

When to go

Where to stay

Rex Airlines and Qantas Link fly between Adelaide and Ceduna and Port Lincoln. Four-wheel drive rental vehicles are available at both airports. If travelling from Western Australia, driving time from Border Village to Ceduna is about five hours or 500km, and it’s a further four and a half hours to Port Lincoln via the Flinders Highway.

The seafood tours are best enjoyed during the warmer months between November and May. Whale watching season runs from July to September.

Port Lincoln Hotel overlooks Boston Bay, and its Sarins restaurant serves up some of the Eyre Peninsula’s finest seafood. Alternatively, the communityowned Ceduna Foreshore Hotel Motel is across the road from the beach.

What to pack Sunscreen, hats and lots of water. Fill up the petrol tank whenever you can, as there are not many service stations in the region.

Or, feel at home in a number of rental properties, including the Camel Beach House south of Venus Bay, Rory’s Studio in Coffin Bay and Perlubie Sea Villas north of Streaky Bay.

For more information, contact RAC Travel on 1300 655 179. 48 Horizons August / September 2017

Long Beach on the edge of Coffin Bay National Park. Soon we’ve collected two buckets of mud cockles, renowned in places such as Venice as vongole. “In Australia, people used these as bait but, now they’re quite the delicacy,” laughs ‘Lunch’. As we drive north of Coffin Bay to his secret spots, ‘Lunch’ tells me, “Anyone can access sealed roads. It’s when you go off-grid with a local that you have unique, authentic experiences.” The rest of the day we do just that. We scrabble down a goat track to a hidden cove and ‘Lunch’ dons a snorkel and mask in search of abalone. Minutes later he’s back with five black and green-lipped sea snails, which he slices out of their iridescent shells and pounds with a rock to tenderise. We lurch the four-wheel drive over sand dunes behind the wide, creamy sweep of Drummond Beach to go surf casting for hard-fighting Australian salmon in waters that tantalise from turquoise and aqua to cobalt blue. Eventually we set up table and chairs and ‘Lunch’ cooks up a feast on his custom-made trailer: sautéed vongole with garlic, white wine and lemon, finely sliced abalone stir fried with oyster mushrooms and much more. “I’ve had these delicacies in Michelin-starred restaurants, but it’s so much better right out of the water here on the beach,” he says. Just then a pod of dolphin swims by and I couldn’t agree more. l

Wit wre Roc sta

Field burs from of ye stati famo Aus size regio a co Outb mag www

For Mou (08)

Images: Sue Gough Henly

with olives, baby tomatoes and lemon rind. ▼

“Anyone can access sealed roads. It’s when you go offgrid with a local that you have unique, authentic experiences.”

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and conditions Discount varies 18 Terms Horizons Augustapply. / September 2017according to season. See website for full details

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Travel

The Douro winds its way through scenic landscapes from north-eastern Spain down to Portugal.

Douro delights A springtime river cruise is the perfect way to discover Portugalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enchanting Douro Valley. by Debbie Ward

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Travel

Images: Debbie Ward

left to right: The tiles at Porto’s main railway station make it a surprising mustsee; the river flows under the city’s iconic bridge and past the old town.

Medieval villages are also a feature along the Douro. Our first stop is the elegant town of Lamego where Our Lady of Remedies church sits 600 zigzag steps above the town. It is among several churches on our voyage that line the famous Catholic pilgrimage route to Spain’s Santiago de Compostela. It’s not unusual to see the devout making an arduous approach up the hill on their knees. In the picturesque village beside the ruins of Castelo Rodrigo, I stoop into a medieval church to see the hole where worshippers have pushed donations to feed passing pilgrims for centuries.

Day trip into Spain Though it’s a two-hour coach journey into Spain, the full day trip to UNESCOlisted Salamanca, proves worthwhile and is a highlight of the trip. In the city’s huge 18th-century plaza, tourists pose for selfies below stone portraits of kings,

Throughout our voyage we pass olive and almond trees and vineyards so steep they remind me of Asia’s rice terraces. In some areas Celtic Iberian dry-stone walls still stand 2000 years after they were erected by balance alone.

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Giant letters spelling “Sandeman” are perched on a hillside in the Douro Valley. It’s Portugal’s answer to the Hollywood sign, where grapes are the stars and wine is the highlight reel. Vineyards line steep terraces throughout this UNESCO-listed landscape and every mile their names are proudly proclaimed. I’m exploring the picturesque region on Riviera Travel’s new Douro Elegance, which makes a round river voyage from Portugal’s heritage city Porto, to the Spanish border. The Douro’s most famous export is Port, the fortified wine created when the regular fermentation process is halted by the addition of a spirit. At Portugal’s most famous vineyard, Sandeman, we’re shown around by a Zorro lookalike, representing the brand’s famous cloaked and hatted trademark. That night, back on board, there is swordplay as an expert ceremonially slices the neck from a bottle.

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Travel

The ancient city square of Salamanca in Spain.

Duoro Elegance fast facts Number of passengers 126 with a 3:1 guest to staff ratio.

Size of ship 80m x 11m

Features

Seasonality April–November

Other cruises Riviera has other European and Asia cruises but Duoro Elegance only operates on this route. Guests can visit Portugal’s capital Lisbon as an optional add-on.

What’s included Excursions and all meals (open seating). Most drinks are extra. Purchased bottles of wine may be kept for subsequent mealtimes.

Porto’s historic Lello & Irmão bookshop.

explorers and the dictator Franco, now defaced. On Riviera’s guided walking tour we see the faint Latin ‘victor’ symbols traditionally applied by newly qualified doctors on the walls of Spain’s oldest university using a paprika and olive oil paste, while on a 14th-century cathedral an astronaut has been whimsically added to the stone carvings during 1992 restoration. A leisurely paella lunch and flamenco show is included in the day but I maximise sightseeing time by picking up an excellent tortilla baguette on

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This is a new five-star vessel with restaurant, lounge bar, complimentary tea and coffee stations, a modest spa, gym and gift shop, a main sun deck with loungers and small pool, plus smaller sun deck. Standard cabins (14–15sqm) and superior (22sqm) and deluxe suites (30sqm) are available. All rooms include tea-making facilities, bathrobes, satellite TV and free WiFi.

The full day trip to UNESCO-listed Salamanca is a highlight of the trip. In the city’s huge 18th century plaza, tourists pose for selfies below stone portraits of kings and explorers. the main drag for just 2.80 euros. Throughout our voyage we pass olive and almond trees and vineyards so steep they remind me of Asia’s rice terraces. In some areas Celtic Iberian dry-stone walls still stand 2000 years after they were erected by balance alone. On our excursions we spot fabulous storks’ nests, the size of wagon wheels, and, if we’re lucky, their leggy inhabitants. We negotiate five locks en-route, including the deepest in Europe and snap pictures from the sundeck as house martins swoop overhead.

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Experience Salamanca via a guided walking tour of the city.

bucolic scenes of grape harvests. There’s a nod to Port, too, in the carved grapevine stonework twisted around the pillars in the 13th-century cathedral. Following the riverfront past sun-drenched cafes serving beers and fish, you find the UNESCO-listed São Francisco church. Its interior is startling. Even by Catholic standards it is fancy, with gold inlay, patterns and paintings covering the walls and ceiling. Another welcome surprise is the interior of Lello & Irmão, one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops. Opened in 1906, its curvaceous wooden staircase and stained glass ceiling are Hogwarts-like, a final reminder that there’s a touch of magic to this special region. l Find out more about Riviera Travel’s river cruises by contacting RAC Cruise Club on 1300 655 898.

France

Images: Debbie Ward; iStockphoto; courtesy Riviera Travel

Travel

Portugal Spain

Spain

Visiting Portugal

Lamego is home to the Our Lady of Remedies church, part of the region’s Catholic pilgrimage route.

Onboard experience Douro Elegance is a new ship but with more classic interiors. It is limited by the width of the river’s locks but cabins are well thought out for their size. In lieu of balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows electronically lower to half way. Bathrooms are stocked with fluffy towels and L’Occitane toiletries, and the shower is surprisingly roomy. Breakfast and lunch on board are buffets with a Portuguese slant and omelette/pasta stations. Dinner is a showy four-course affair followed by a pianist playing popular standards in the

Algieria

bar. The charming staff are the ship’s greatest asset, quick with a joke or to remember individual preferences.

Exploring historic Porto Our arrival back into Porto is spectacular passing under an iconic bridge. Smart red roofs and old tiled facades stretch off in all directions. You can step straight off and explore but Riviera’s coach tour, or the cable car will help you negotiate the steeper areas. Surprisingly, the railway station is a must-see. Its elaborately painted tiles depict epic historical battles beside

Portugal has a winning mix of well-preserved heritage cities, lovely surf beaches (the Algarve is the most famous coastal area, if you’re staying on), a noted wine industry and extended summer. Several global media outlets have named Portugal in their top ten destinations for this year. It also offers better value than many of its Eurozone neighbours. This year and last, Portugal’s Algarve topped the respected UK Post Office poll of most affordable destinations based on prices for everyday holiday purchases.

August / September 2017 Horizons 53

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What’s new

The latest news from the motoring world

Sales slide

Seven-seat CR-V

Digital detox tech Nissan has developed a special storage compartment that blocks all cellular, Bluetooth and wi-fi signals, to reduce the chances of drivers being distracted by their smartphones. The concept is called the Nissan Signal Shield and according to Nissan is designed to give drivers a choice about whether to eliminate phone-related distractions such as texts and push notifications. Nissan said drivers would still be able to listen to music or podcasts stored on their smartphone, via the USB or auxiliary ports. Phone manufacturers are also on board. Apple has added a feature to its iOS 11 operating system that blocks notifications of messages when driving.

Alex Forrest

Honda’s CR-V finally has a seven-seat option, along with an efficient new turbocharged petrol engine making 140kW and 240Nm. The extra rear seats bring the CR-V into line with other medium SUVs offering seven seats, such as the Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan X-Trail. It will also give it the edge over other competitors in the medium SUV range with five-seats only, such as the Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage. The turbo petrol engine should address the CR-V’s previous bugbear of low torque, high-revving petrol engines. It was due to launch in July.

New car sales in Western Australia continued spiralling down in the first part of 2017, with almost all vehicle categories experiencing fewer showroom deals compared with the same period in 2016. While there has also been a sales decline nationally, WA’s sales downturn has been considerably more dramatic than the national average, falling by about 10 per cent from 2016 compared with a national dip of 2.3 per cent over the same time frame.

MG marathon Perth MG enthusiast and author Mike Sherrell has owned his 1949 MGTC for 58 years. Over that time, he has rebuilt it three times, and since 1991 has been restoring other people’s MGTCs full-time. Having restored more than 20 MGTCs, the 76-yearold Mr Sherrell is considered a world authority on the model and is currently working on his 22nd TC restoration. In May, Mr Sherrell launched his second book about MGTCs, titled TCs Forever-more!, which was celebrated by MGTC owners gathering their cars to recognise his achievements. The MGTC is regarded as one of the world’s most iconic sports cars, even though only 10,000 were built between 1945 and 1949. August / September 2017 Horizons 55

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Alex Forrest reviews the latest cars on our roads.

Test drive

Suzuki Ignis With its raised ride height, slightly retro styling and tiny size, the Suzuki Ignis stands defiant in the face of those wanting to pigeonhole it. Suzuki is calling it a light SUV, but there isn’t an allwheel drive option and it’s even smaller than a light car. However, it does have better ground clearances than some larger SUVs and the wheel arches even have little flares on them. Semantics aside, one thing that is clear is the Suzuki Ignis is crammed full of personality. Its styling is clearly a nod to the tiny Japanese Kei cars of the 1970s, such as Suzuki’s own SS20 Cervo and the Honda Z. Inside, there is Apple Carplay and Android Auto phone mirroring software, which is

accessible via the seven-inch touchscreen. This, plus a reversing camera and sat nav, is standard. Not bad for a car that starts at $16,990 drive away for the GL manual. The only other variant in the range is the GLX, which at $19,990 drive away includes extras such as 16-inch alloy wheels (as opposed to 15s on the GL), daytime running lights and keyless start. The Ignis can only be had with a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine, which makes 66kW and 120Nm. Transmission options comprise a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Under load, the CVT makes the engine run at sustained,

Suzuki Ignis specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

droning high revs, so long uphill runs with four people on board won’t be fun. For rolling around town though, engine noise levels are acceptable. The Ignis’s turning circle is tiny, which combined with its small size makes it very easy to park. The boot in the Ignis is small and would struggle to fit a set of golf clubs. However, thanks

from $16,990 drive away 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol 66kW @ 6000rpm 120Nm @ 4400rpm 4.9L/100km 114g/km not tested

to its tall roof, there is good headroom for all seating spots. Interior fit and finish in the Ignis is a tremendous improvement over that of vehicles at this price point only five years ago, though it won’t be worrying Audi anytime soon. Still, the Ignis is a welcome addition to this end of the market, regardless of how you categorise it. l

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Test drive

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

Mini Cooper JCW Much like the original Mini Cooper S from the 1960s, the 2017 Mini Cooper JCW is proof you don’t need the most powerful engine to be the person having the most fun on the road. Now, the Cooper JCW’s 170kW is not insignificant – in fact, it’s the most powerful Mini currently available. However, it still makes fewer kilowatts than other sports cars in its price range, such as the Volkswagen Golf R, Subaru WRX STi and Ford Focus RS. Further, the convertible version is more expensive than all of these. The Cooper JCW’s fun factor stems from far more than just the engine. Firstly, its toy-like appearance makes those other cars look seriously sensible. The adaptive suspension

has been stiffened in the new JCW, and its front end has been designed to maximise steering sharpness while minimising the effects of torque-steer. Then there is the interior, which, like all modern Minis, is a feast of chrome, colour and retro shapes. It’ll be too much for some, and not enough for others. In the convertible version, all these factors are intensified as the outside is invited in. Though this new Cooper JCW is bigger overall than its predecessor, it doesn’t feel larger on the inside – the rear seats are very tight and strictly for small children only. Also, $62,570 drive away is a tremendous amount of money for a vehicle this size, especially as it has just a

Mini Cooper JCW specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

from $62,570 drive away 2.0-litre turbo petrol 170kW @ 5200rpm 320Nm @ 1250-4800rpm 7.2L/100km 157g/km ★★★★

4-star ANCAP safety rating. At 1385kg, the convertible is heavy for its size, which is due to the chassis strengthening required to go roofless. Despite the weight, it has remained surprisingly agile. The fabric convertible roof is fully electric for the first time, and can be opened partially to expose only the front seats or fully retracted in the traditional way.

The previous Mini Cooper JCW models added the extra dimension of prodigious sports car performance over the regular Minis. With an extra 10kW and 40Nm over the previous JCW, plus the upgraded suspension and that convertible roof, the new Mini Cooper JCW Convertible completely besieges the senses in the most hysterical way you can imagine. l August / September 2017 Horizons 57

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Test drive

Toyota Kluger Over the past 10 years, thousands of Australian families have chosen the secondgeneration Toyota Kluger to carry them and all their gear everywhere they need to go. The Kluger’s popularity is perfectly reasonable.These SUVs are reliable, practical, low maintenance and yet refined, family transport backed by a strong dealer network. In terms of its on-road ability, one of the Kluger’s best assets is its 3.5-litre petrol V6, which is silky smooth and delivers ample performance. However, since the 3.5-litre engine was introduced in 2007, one of the Kluger’s few notable pitfalls has been the thirst of that engine. The current model Kluger, which received a facelift in

February 2017, still has a 3.5-litre petrol V6, but critically, its thirst has been dialled back. The improved fuel economy has been achieved by introducing a new direct fuel injection system and an eight-speed automatic transmission, which replaces the six-speed unit in the previous model. In the mandated combined cycle test, all-wheel drive versions of the new Kluger use 9.5L/100km – a significant drop compared with the previous model’s 10.6L/100km. In mostly around-town driving, though, you can expect the new Kluger to use around 12L/100km – still much better than the old model’s 14.5L/100km. There have also been some

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

from $51,930 drive away 3.5-litre petrol 218kW @ 6200rpm 350Nm @ 4700rpm 9.5L/100km 163g/km ★★★★★

minor increases in the engine’s outputs, which comprise an extra 17kW of power (218kW) and 13Nm more torque (350Nm). Safety equipment levels are good but not segment leading. For example, the Kluger only has autonomous braking and rear cross traffic alert on the range-topping Grande model, which starts at $74,350 for the 2WD version. By comparison, the Mazda CX-9 has these as standard

across the range, with the cheapest one being $51,930. The Kluger has always been very smooth and quiet and this one is no exception. The two seats in the third row are easy to lift and stow, and they are supplied with dedicated air vents, which can’t be said of the Mazda CX-9. The previous Kluger was already a compelling family vehicle, but its improved fuel economy has made it an even more attractive option. l

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Test drive

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

Holden Astra With a choice of willing yet efficient drivetrains, sharp handling and good overall safety credentials, the new Holden Astra is a solid player in the super-competitive small car category. Now in its seventh generation, the Astra has been positioned as a replacement for the locally built Cruze hatch, which went out of production in October 2016. Like many of today’s new cars, the Astra for the Australian market has mixed origins. Though badged a Holden, it’s been designed and engineered in Germany by Opel, General Motors’ European arm, and it’s built in Poland. Additionally, Holden has had input into the automatic transmission calibration and the steering tune, which will be

applied to the Astras destined for Australia. A rear camera is standard across the range, as it is in the Toyota Corolla and Volkswagen Golf. However, autonomous braking isn’t available on the base model Astra, but it is on the cheapest Mazda3 and Golf. That said, the entry-level Astra has a rear camera where the equivalent Mazda3 does not. The Astra also has phonemirroring software Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upper variants of the Astra do a great job of feeling like a small luxury car rather than a cut-price product with a few chintzy accoutrements stuck on. Interior finishes and refinement are markedly improved, with polished black inserts and well-engineered

Holden Astra specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

from $23,990 drive away 1.4-litre turbo petrol 110kW @ 5000-5600rpm 240Nm @ 2400-4800rpm (auto) 245Nm @ 2000-4000rpm (manual) 5.8L/100km 157g/km ★★★★★

moving parts such as the rolltop lid on the centre console. Noise intrusion is low. In the manual version we tested, the shape of the gear lever and its quick movement between the six gears made it particularly good ergonomically. There are two engines available in the Astra, and both are turbocharged petrols. The entry level Astra R gets a 1.4-litre turbo with 110kW and 245Nm, while the top two Astra

variants get the 1.6 turbo with 147kW and 300Nm. The new Astra’s refinement, safety cred, driving dynamics and build quality make it Holden’s best small car yet. However, in the cut-throat small car segment, there’s also plenty of high-quality competition around. Pricing for the new Astra starts at $23,990 for the sixspeed manual, and $24,990 for the six-speed auto. l August / September 2017 Horizons 59

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VINTAGE MACHINERY RALLY WAROONA

Sunday 24th September 2017 9am to 3pm Brought to you by Waroona Vintage Machinery Inc. & the Waroona Lions Club and supported by The Old Machinery Club of WA Showgrounds, Waroona WA

Featuring

Vintage stationary engines: vintage cars: tractors: motor bikes: trucks: tools: toys plus this year an added attraction... A TRACTOR PULL!!! Antiques • hand & home made crafts & interests • food stalls Free childrens entertainment and lots more things for the whole family

Entry $5 per head except kids under 10 For more information contact: Sandra Twaddle 9733 1445/0419 942 137 or Roland Ulrich 9535 2105 www.waroonavintagemachineryrally.com.au

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Ask the car doctor

Our experts answer your questions

You can be a winner If your question is published, you will receive from RAC Travel a copy of the UBD Gregory’s 2017 Perth and Surrounds Street Directory, which includes new streets and suburbs, petrol station locations and more. See page 81 for terms and conditions of entry.

I have a 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid that has done 67,000km. When I first bought it and would fill the tank, the indicator would show a cruising distance of more than 1000km. Since then I have noticed that the cruise indicator has shown a steady decline in the estimated distance to about 850km. What does this mean? Garry Leicester

A: This may be due to the

rechargeable nickel-metalhydride (Ni-MH) battery in the car’s hybrid system gradually decreasing in its ability to retain charge. If the battery is holding less charge, the hybrid system is less able to use its electric drive capability and so must use the petrol engine more regularly, which would decrease the vehicle’s range. Alternatively, it could be an issue with the calibration of the car’s electronics. An automotive workshop will be able to confirm either scenario.

I have a question in two parts regarding putting petrol in your diesel vehicle: firstly, what should you do if you have put petrol in and have started the engine? And, what should you do if you have put petrol in but have not yet started the engine? Carl Carey

A: If you have put petrol in

a diesel vehicle and you have started the engine, switch the engine off immediately and get the vehicle towed to a licensed repairer to have the fuel tank and fuel system drained and checked for any engine damage that may have occurred. If you have put petrol into a diesel vehicle and have NOT started it, do not turn on the ignition or start the vehicle as this will prime the system and possibly increase the cost of rectifying the problem. Get the vehicle towed to a licensed repairer to be drained and checked. If the vehicle is not started or primed, there is less chance of damage.

How accurate are thermometers in cars and where is the sender unit fitted? If it’s in the engine bay then the engine temp would affect it, and if it’s behind the grill then surely the wind would also affect it. The only other place I can think of is in the wheel arch, but then tyre heat would affect it.

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.

John Burges

A: The location of the

outside air temperature sensor unit varies between vehicles, but most sensors are located around the front bumper area of the vehicle, away from the radiator, tyre and brake heat. It is advisable to use the reading as a guide only, as there are some variables that may affect the reading.

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.

August / September 2017 Horizons 61

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People, places, prizes and RAC news

Member Lounge How much do you love your pet? study from Miami University. Pets also Australia is a nation of animal lovers, provided important social support to with one the world’s highest rates of people who live alone. pet ownership. So just how much do we love them? Of the 63 per cent of Australian The average Australian dog will cost households with pets, 40 per cent own around $13,000 over its lifetime, says dogs, while 26 per cent have cats, the RSPCA. according to Canstar research. It’s about the same amount for More than 90 per cent of pet cats. A cat’s annual ownership owners say they feel very close of Australian costs are generally less than a to their pets, which means households dog’s, but our feline friends tend we’re likely to also have some have a pet to live longer. of the best-loved and most That’s a lot of love but it’s every pampered pets around. pet owners hope that their much-loved The payback is that having them in four-legged family members will lead our lives can provide many benefits for long and happy lives. owners, too. Pet owners were found to have To help protect your beloved cat or dog greater self-esteem, showed less against injury or illness, RAC now offers discounted pet insurance for members. fearfulness and got more exercise than To find out more, visit rac.com.au/pet. those without pets, according to a 2011

63%

RAC Christmas Pageant returns with an exciting addition Get ready to show off your festive decorating skills! You could be designing one of the floats at the annual RAC Christmas Pageant, which will light up the streets of Perth on Saturday 2 December. To get involved and find out more, visit rac.com.au/pageant.

Top 10 claims for stolen items Jewellery remains the household item with the highest number of insurance claims from home break-ins.

Jewellery

Electrical equipment

Computers & accessories

House keys

Bikes

Tools

Mobile phones & accessories

Sporting & recreation equipment

Photographic equipment

Furniture

RAC Insurance claims, 1 July 2015 – 30 June 2016

For a free home security consultation, call RAC Security on 1300 132 735 or enquire online at rac.com.au/security.

62 Horizons August / September 2017

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Member Lounge

School holiday fun at RAC Parks and Resorts Keep your kids busy while you’re on holiday with a special program of activities for kids of all ages at RAC Parks and Resorts in Cervantes, Busselton, Exmouth and Monkey Mia. Big screen movie nights, treasure hunts, craft activities, night possum spotting, cooking classes and competitions are just a few of the fun activities on offer. Find out what’s on at each park by visiting racparksandresorts.com.au. RAC members save up to 20 per cent off room rates and sites and receive a free late checkout, subject to availability.

Win a Camps 9 guidebook Own an RV? We’re giving away 10 copies of the Camps 9 guidebook. An invaluable resource for RV travellers, the Camps 9 guidebook details more than 4000 campsites across Australia, including overnight stops, camping areas, low-cost caravan parks, national and state parks, and station stays, along with pet-friendly sites. This new edition includes more than 2700 site photos. Plus, Camps 9 has easy-to-read maps, indexing by state and lists GPS coordinates to help you find your way.

To enter

Visit rac.com.au/camps9 and complete the online entry form. See terms and conditions on page 81.

Namaste!

Touring India’s Golden Triangle and Kerala The exotic and colourful Indian cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur were just a few of the highlights of a guided tour for RAC members in March 2017. Showcasing the imposing forts, palaces and temples that make up India’s rich Mughal heritage, the tour included a rail journey to Ranthambore and a deluxe houseboat tour of the peaceful, tropical waters of Kerala. Escorting the tour was RAC Travel’s Bisha Balan, who is originally from Kerala and relished in the chance to share her passion for her home country with RAC members. She describes India as an experience for all the senses. “As mesmerising as the Taj Mahal or the beaches of Goa can be, it’s things like the colourfulness and vibrancy of every sight, sound and smell that you truly fall for.” Ms Balan says there were many tour

highlights but for her the most exciting part was enabling the group to immerse themselves in authentic local culture. “It was a very rewarding experience, from learning traditional dance moves to trying all the extravagant flavours India’s food had to offer. Our members even got to make their own rotis!” India’s size and the country’s diversity of cultures can make it overwhelming to explore, says Ms Balan, so she recommends allowing enough time in one destination to truly explore it. “Enjoy every moment there without trying to see multiple cities within a couple of days. When you get to India it may seem chaotic at first but there is a method in the madness – life is just lived more fluidly and you’ll start to embrace it in no time.” Join Bisha Balan and RAC Travel on the 17-day guided Highlights of Northern India tour in March 2018. For more information, visit rac.com.au/india. August / September 2017 Horizons 63

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Buy one game get one free* at AMF Bowling Just roll into your nearest AMF centre and show your RAC membership card for a fun filled day of bowling, arcade games and more!

Book a lane at rac.com.au/amf *Terms and conditions apply, shoe hire is $2 extra per person. Visit rac.com.au/amf for more details.

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Have you tried the RAC online shop? Save on a range of movie vouchers, national park passes, Rottnest Island ferry vouchers, car history reports and more. Use the coupon code HORIZONS to receive $5 off your next purchase*.

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

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*Discount applies to full-priced items online or in Perth store locations only. Extra 5% off clearance applies only to prices ending in $0.95. Full-priced electrical appliances at Williams-Sonoma are entitled to a 5% discount only. Offer not valid for limited-time sale items, gift cards, gift wrap, delivery charges or previous purchases. Discount cannot be combined with any other offers, promotion codes or discounts (including New Mover and Trade programs). For full Terms & Conditions, visit rac.com.au/mb.

68 Horizons August / September 2017

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Comfort is what LA-Z-BOY does best, after all weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been doing it since 1927. But, perhaps you may not have realized the vast range of designs now available at LA-Z-BOY Furniture Galleries. Choose from our extensive range of designs, fabric or leather coverings and recliner action mechanisms. The one thing we can promise is, the entire range delivers unrivalled comfort. RAC W.A. Members - Exclusive offer for LA-Z-BOY Furniture Gallery customers:

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August / September 2017 Horizons 69

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win one of five family passes

TO THE OPENING HOME GAME OF THE 2017/18 NBL SEASON! To go into the draw, email membership@wildcats.com.au & tell us how many championships the Perth Wildcats have won.

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Take a break RAC members enjoy 15% off the best rate of the day with Thrifty in Australia and New Zealand.

Did you know Thrifty is the Official Car Hire of the AFL? So whether you are renting for leisure or business, Thrifty has you covered. ^Terms & conditions apply. 15% discount applies on the best rate of the day. Must quote RAC Membership number at the time of reservation & collection. For full terms and conditions go to rac.com.au/thrifty.

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72 Horizons August / September 2017

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August / September 2017 Horizons 73

Member benefits

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WINTER IS HERE ... WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HAD YOUR HOT WATER SYSTEM SERVICED?

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August / September 2017 Horizons 75

Member benefits

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76 Horizons August / September 2017

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*RAC member discounts and offers are not applicable to warranty renewal contracts or other Termico offers. Offer only applicable in metro and selected country areas (Bunbury and Busselton). Spider treatment not available with pre-purchase inspection. Offer available once per household.** To approved customers only. August / September 2017 Horizons 77 For more member savings visit rac.com.au/memberbenefit s

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78 Horizons August / September 2017

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August / September 2017 Horizons 79

Australian tours for the young at heart Norfolk Island Getaway Picture perfect Norfolk Island; tall majestic pines, high rising cliffs, green valleys, lush rainforest and brilliant turquoise waters over coral reefs. Highlights » Half day Island tour » Island culture tour » Island progressive dinner » Island fish fry » Night as a Convict » Breakfast bushwalk » Pitcairn Settlers Village » Wonderland by night » Convict Settlement tour » Coral reef viewing

10 days 14 May 2018

fr $

pp*

4,450

Includes flights

RAC exclusive tour

Canberra Floriade

Includes flights

Australia’s biggest celebration of spring returns to Canberra for the 30th year. Be guided through the beautiful gardens and displays and on an informative and interesting tour of our country’s capital city. Highlights » Iconic Telstra Tower » Australian War Memorial » Museum of Democracy » National Gallery of Australia » Fabulous Floriade and Nightfest » Miniature Cockington Green » Historic Lanyon Homestead » Deep Space Communication Complex » Lake Burley Griffin Cruise » National Arboretum

7 days 22 September 2017 pp*

fr $

3,080

Third departure by popular demand

Bass Strait Islands

Includes flights

Perched in the middle of Bass Strait between Tasmania and the mainland are two rough diamonds, King and Flinders Island. Explore with Australian Air Holidays. 5 days Multiple departs Highlights » Strzelecki National Park » Wybalenna Chapel » pp*

fr $

4,950

Furneaux Museum » Palana » Currie Harbour » King Island Dairy » Cape Wickham Lighthouse

Private charter aircraft on tour

Australian Air Holidays

Terms & conditions apply: Valid for new bookings only. Price advertised is per person, based on twin share. Surcharges may apply to particular dates of travel. Offers are subject to availability, can change without notification due to fluctuations in charges and currency and may be withdrawn at any time. Seniors Coach Tours and Australian Air Holidays terms and conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

R15718-2

Call 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/seniorstours

Applecross 6150 6459 » Carousel 6150 6454 » Joondalup 9308 1600 » Mandurah 6150 6456 » Midland 6150 6468 » Morley 6466 2300 » West Perth 9436 4830

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Terms & conditions

Winning Letter

Car Doctor

Camps 9 guidebook

page 8

page 61

page 63

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 $174. If the winner already has Roadside Assistance, the Classic Roadside Assistance will be applied as credit to their account until their cover runs out. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid. The winner will be notified by email, phone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in August/September Horizons must claim their prize by 13 September 2017. 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.

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 August/ September Horizons must claim their prize by 13 September 2017. 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.

The competition begins on 19 July 2017 at 9am and ends on 1 September 2017 at 5pm (Australian Western Standard Time). Up to 10 entrants (winners) may each be awarded only one prize as follows: one Camps 9 guidebook spiralbound. The winner shall be chosen by the judges from the entries at random. The winner will be drawn on 4 September 2017 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 11 September 2017. 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.

More info Full terms and conditions for each competition are available at rac.com.au/competitions. For details of winners from our past promotions, visit rac.com.au/horizonswinners.

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The 1 best

Contact

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

Elizabeth Quay, the impressive form of Christian de Vietri’s Spanda (Sanskrit for ‘divine vibration’) represents the link between river, land and sky. A landmark feature, the artwork takes the form of 29m-high ripples.

Ravensthorpe grain silos.

Image courtesy of FORM.

Impossible Triangle, East Perth Impossible Triangle in Claisebrooke Square is a clever optical illusion, appearing as a disconnected geometric sculpture from all but two locations where it forms a perfect triangle, framing the sky. The work is a collaboration between WA artist Brian McKay and architect Ahmad Abas.

Public artworks First Contact, Elizabeth Quay

Fizz, Perth Children’s Hospital, Subiaco

A stunning polished aluminium sculpture at Elizabeth Quay, First Contact is the first public artwork from Noongar artist Laurel Nannup. It tells her story of the Noongar people’s first encounter with Wadjella (British settlers) in the early 1800s. The work is one of the first major Noongar public artworks in Perth’s CBD, according to cultural organisation FORM.

Anyone driving past the Perth Children’s Hospital would have spotted the sweeping array of 3D coloured discs. The work of Stuart Green titled Fizz, the 1600 aluminium discs range in size from 450mm to 1m in diameter and are arranged carefully based on colours and sizes across the hospital’s eastern façade, enhanced by integrated lighting in the evening.

Inside Australia, Lake Ballard Located on the Lake Ballard salt pan in the Goldfields, Sir Antony Gormley’s internationally renowned Inside Australia artwork has drawn many visitors to see the remote landscape since it was commissioned in 2003. The work features 51 metal figures, modelled off the nearby town’s inhabitants. Originally designed as a temporary installation, Gormley later gifted the art work to WA for the cost of $1.

Tree of Shadow, The Old Treasury Building, Perth Drawing on the historic significance of Cathedral Square at The Old Treasury Building, Sohan Ariel Hayes’ artwork represents stories of WA with a focus on reconciliation. The work consists of a series of projections representing nine streams of WA culture: pre-settlement, settlement, language, songlines, emblems, marriage, politics, ceremony and future.

Eliza, Matilda Bay

Council House, Perth A landmark in the CBD after sunset is Council House on St George’s Terrace. Lit up in spectacular fashion with designs by artists including Tom Muller and Suzanne Blake as part of the City of Perth’s Lighthouse initiative, it has been so well received it is now an ongoing project.

Grain silos, Ravensthorpe Ravensthorpe’s three 25m-high grain silos have been transformed by Fremantle-based artist Amok Island, with a beautiful mural depicting the growth of the native Banksia baxteri. The artwork has become a significant landmark for the country town and is the second in a series of murals on grain silos in regional WA led by cultural organisation FORM.

Spanda, Elizabeth Quay One of the most photographed features at The Landing,

Just 15m from the shoreline of the Swan River, the bronze statue Eliza has become a Perth icon, capturing the imagination of the public, who regularly ‘dress’ her for various events like Christmas and New Year’s Eve. The work of renowned sculptor Tony Jones, Eliza commemorates the Crawley Baths and is named after Mount Eliza.

Connectus, Kings Square, Perth Tapping into the wonderful colours of the Australian landscape, Connectus is a responsive lighting installation that reacts to the level of light at the site. Designed by Sydney-based artist Warren Langley, the work takes the form of a single line, illuminating the site and creating a connection through the spine of Kings Square.

Thanks to FORM, an independent, non-profit cultural organisation that develops and advocates for excellence in creativity and artistic practice in Western Australia.

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