December 2016 - January 2017
Drive Torque
Inside :
Club Xmas Party - Watagans Weekend - Australia Day at Colo River West Kunderang - Meet the Capratsis family
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
This Issue: President’s report
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Club Christmas Party 2016
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Christmas Party 2016 - Adult’s perspective
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Christmas Party 2016 - Child’s perspective
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Special feature: What’s all this about weights?
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Future fun
13
Member profile: Meet the Capratsis family
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Trip reports: Watagans Weekend
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West Kunderang
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Australia Day at Colo River
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Committee reports: Vice president and Social convener
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Trip conveners
26
Webmaster
27
4WD delegates
28
Committee contacts
31
Images Cover main: Australia Day attendees Above right: Australia Day camp decorations
Subaru and Recreational 4WD Club Inc. is noncommercial and dedicated to 4WD touring and associated recreational activities. Our club is open to owners of ALL makes of 4WD vehicles. Members can participate in touring and exploring the our countryside, whether it be a day trip, a weekend away camping, or an extended tour. The club endeavours to cater for everyone with a variety of trips and social outings. As a member club of the Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT, we adhere to the "Tread Lightly" campaign and the 4WD driver's Code of Ethics. Non members are invited to attend our meetings and participate in one or two trips on a "get to know you" basis before joining the club. See our website for details on future meetings.
Contact information Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc (Public) Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club (Members only) General enquiries: http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/contact-us.html President Vice president Public relations Editor
Mark Honor Sandi Strickland Jo Quinn Rashida Stevens
president@subaruclub.com.au vicepresident@subaruclub.com.au publicity@subaruclub.com.au editor@subaruclub.com.au
Articles appearing in this magazine and opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily represent the views of the management committee of Subaru and Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
President’s Report
W
elcome to another edition of Drive Torque. It only seems like yesterday we were looking forward to our 2016 Club Christmas Party and wishing everyone “safe travels for the Christmas and New Year holidays”.
Since my last report the club has had about 9 events, including meetings and trips. Some of the meetings and all of the trips have had very good attendance. I congratulate all of you for your continued enthusiasm and general involvement with the club. It is always very encouraging for the trip leaders and the committee to have members interested and involved. That being said, the trip convenors will also agree that there is always room in our calendar for more trips and events. I encourage everyone to check our web site regularly, because this is our primary source of information.
As mentioned at our last general meeting, the committee has a number of important agenda items that we are asking for your input and feedback. One of these is how we might use Facebook and other media more effectively to promote our club and capture potential members who are interested in at least finding out more about us. Please contact me if you are interested in being part of a small group charged with looking into this area. Our delegates, James and David, have recently returned from the quarterly meeting of our 4WD Association held in Wagga Wagga. In recent years the Association has been working hard to engage with it’s clubs and becoming more “relevant”. Our club, through the delegates, is also engaging with the Association as there are good benefits that flow in both directions. I encourage you to read their most recent report. You may recall our attendance last year at the Sydney 4WD and Adventure Show where we received fantastic support from our current members and We are delighted to welcome gained some new members. At this stage, it is our intention to attend the new members and their show again between the 13th - 15th October 2017. families to the club:
Darren Smith Wendy Mavros Michael Pears
There are plenty of other things worth reporting but it is probably best for you to read the reports and articles that are included in this issue.
We welcome new members, Darren Smith (re-joining after 3 or so years), Michael Pears and most recently, Wendy Mavros. I know you will make them feel very welcome. All the best to everyone for the next few months and I look forward to catching up with you on our next adventure.
- Mark Honor
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016 Myall River Camp, Hawks Nest - Saturday 10th December 2016 Attendees: Brian, Heidi and Issy; Dave Cook, David and Karen Horwitz; Dennis and Nelly; John and Jean Evans; Richard, Rashida, Amelia, Olivia, and Elysia; Craig no-shoes; Geoff Adcock; Jo and Shahni; Jason and Karen; Ann-Marie and Travis; John and Jean Hocking; Karen and Paul; Nick, Amanda and Charlie; Mark and Karolyn; Chris and Kelly; Brett, Fiona and Chantelle; Kim Nolan; Tom and Cath; Rob and Sandra; Troy, Sandi, and Kaitlin. Snapshot:
Kids happy with Santa’s visit and gifts
100%
23
vehicles of all makes and models
2
COCKTAIL MIXES
29
% Members attended
24 People Fit Inside Kim’s Palomino Camper
RAFFLE PRIZES AND WINNERS
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adults sat on MOCKTAIL Santa’s lap MIX (not all at once)
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016 24 members squeezed into Kim’s Palomino!
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016 Adult’s perspective - By Kevin McCormack
I
arrived about 12:30pm on Friday to find Jo and Shahni just ahead of me, and Craig and Geoff already set-up – but in different locations. Geoff had been there for a few days already so we needed to make a call on where best to set-up, given the large number of members expected to attend the event. It was decided that Craig’s location, the same as two years ago, would be easiest to keep everyone together. The weather was good with quite a fresh breeze coming off the river. Other members arrived in dribs and drabs throughout the afternoon and evening. Once set up, we all settled around a small camp fire for the evening. Of much interest was Kim Nolan’s new vehicle and Palomino camper. After a peaceful night’s rest, some were up bright and early to take advantage of the day. Once breakfast was done some went to swim and explore the river, while others wandered off into town or spent the time socialising and catching up with each other in relaxed surrounds. About 3.00pm a combined committee / general meeting was convened. I think some found it interesting to observe the committee in action as, although committee meetings are open to all members, those outside the committee rarely attend. Once the meeting was complete it was time for the serious business of Christmas celebrations to get under way. Lots of fun was had erecting the Christmas tree, and twinkling lights were connected to the tree and various camp sites. Dinner preparations began and, of course, the obligatory Christmas attire appeared and music began to play.
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016 I’m not sure how Santa found us, but find us he did, for a visit which delighted all especially the children and Jo Quinn. Once the gifts were distributed it was then time for fivesies of which there was ample. Dinner had been arranged for about 6:30pm and was pretty much on time with offering of roasts, all sorts of salads, potato bake, chicken, pastas, frankfurts, etc. Plenty to go around, for sure! As night arrived, the Chrissy lights sparkled and we settled into a very large circle where Jason took the role of fire-master. John Evans was the ring-master for an entertaining pass-the-parcel and trivia event. Then came dessert but as I did not partake I can only guess it was just as good as the fare that had gone before it.
The fire grew larger as the night cooled and everyone certainly seemed to be having a good time. As it got late people slowly drifted off to their camp for some rest. Sunday morning saw another beautiful day in the making and people were in no rush to leave. The pack up was intermingled with visits to the river’s beach, and by lunch time most had left the camp site. All in all, a very pleasant and enjoyable weekend and, for me, it was great to catch up with members I had not seen for quite some time. It would be terrific if more of the newer members participated in events such as these; come on guys! Us older members don’t bite (most of the time!). Many thanks to Sandi for organising the party!
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016 Child’s perspective - By Amelia Stevens
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n 9th December 2016, I set off to the club’s Christmas camp. I was so excited to go because it was my first time camping in a camper trailer. When we arrived, we found the club and my sister, Olivia, Daddy and Mummy set up the camper trailer. I took my younger sister, Elysia, to sit down somewhere and watch her. When the camper trailer was done, I played with my sisters and then had dinner. The next morning, I had a yummy breakfast - French toast. It was so delicious! Then I went for a walk with my family around the camp site. When we got back I made Christmas cards for my friends at school before playing with the other kids. After that the other children and I decorated the Christmas tree. Then it was time for the club meeting. While the adults were talking, the kids got to make little Christmas trees with ice-cream cones, green icing and M&Ms for decoration. When that was finished, there was a candy cane hunt; I found four. After that, Santa came. He gave me a recorder, bubbles and glow sticks. When it got dark, someone lit the fire and we all had dinner. Dinner was amazing, and so was dessert. We then played pass the parcel before going to bed. I had an amazing time and was ready for the 4 hour drive home. Thank you to everyone for organising a great day!
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Club Christmas Party 2016
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
SPECIAL FEATURE:
What’s all this about weights? By Brett Hampson
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n recent discussions, the question of legal vehicle and trailer weights arose. With all the acronyms that are thrown about with weight figures and how they interact with each other, it can all be a bit confusing, so here this article aims to give you an overview on what they all mean. In regards to the vehicle itself, be aware of the following terms and definitions:
Tare mass: Weight of a vehicle including oils but with minimal fuel in the tank. Kerb mass: Weight of a vehicle with all tanks full. GVM - Gross vehicle mass or weight (GVW): Maximum weight of the vehicle when fully loaded. This includes all passengers, luggage, accessories such as bull bars, fridges, additional batteries, food, pets etc. It also includes the tow ball download weight if you are towing a trailer. Payload: Maximum amount of load the vehicle can carry. Equal to GVM minus the kerb mass. GCM Gross combination mass or weight (GCW): This is the GTM plus the Tow bar Download. Basically it’s the maximum weight that the trailer can weigh. For a trailer, the following terms apply: Tare trailer mass: Weight of an empty trailer. This figure is calculated with all water tanks and gas bottles empty. GTM - Gross trailer mass or weight (GTW): Maximum weight for the trailer, including all fluids, gas and everything else you plan to carry in it. It does not include the TBD. TBD - Tow bar download: This is usually around 10-15% of the GTM, eg. A trailer weighing 2 tonnes usually has a tow bar download weight around 200kg. ATM - Aggregate trailer mass or weight (ATW): Maximum load for the trailer including the tow bar download, ie GTM plus TBD.
How does all this work in real life? Let’s take a club member’s vehicle as an example. Toyota Landcruiser 200 series, arguably one of the best tow vehicles on the market with a 3,500kg tow capacity. Weights ratings: Kerb = 2,740kg, GVM = 3,350kg, leaving a Payload of 610kg. If this Toyota Landcruiser 200 series vehicle has been fitted with steel bars, roof racks, drawers, fridge, luggage, and has 3 or 4 passengers, then it is getting pretty close to the legal weight limit. Now, lets say you had the same Landcruiser and wanted to tow a big 3 tonne family caravan which the salesperson said would “not be a problem”. The caravan’s 3T weight results in a tow bar download weight of ~300kg (yes, this is normal for those big caravans that you see being towed). That would reduce your vehicles payload from 610kg to just 310kg. With all those other items mentioned above, it is more than likely the vehicle is now over the GVM and not legal to have on the road. While there are probably thousands of vehicles like this roaming the country, I have been made aware that authorities seem to be taking a closer look at large rigs and pulling them over for weighing.
Failure to abide by the towing regulations, including maximum loads, may result in a fine, or in the case of an accident, refusal of the insurance claim, and the possibility of further legal action. - RACQ website
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
SPECIAL FEATURE:
What’s all this about weights? Here are some examples of vehicle weights (kgs): TOYOTA Landcruiser 200 series Kerb
FORD Ranger
MITSHUBISHI Triton
LANDROVER Discovery TD6
TOYOTA Prado GXL Petrol, Auto
TOYOTA Prado GXL Diesel, Auto
2 740
2 105
1 955
2 298
2 220
2 315
610
1 095
945
872
680
675
GVM
3 350
3 200
2 900
3 170
2 900
2 990
GCM
6 850
6 000
5 885
6 670
5 290
5 370
Tow capacity
3 500
3 500
3 100
3 500
2 500
2 500
Payload
* The above information has been tabulated from various sources, and provided for general reference only. Individuals are encouraged to source accurate information for their own vehicle’s make and model.
Companies are now offering a service where you can get the GVM of a vehicle increased. It can increase the payload by 400-500kg but comes at a cost upwards of $3,000. In my opinion, that’s not a lot considering the cost of the vehicle and the large off road caravans or trailers, to be towed safely and legally. So hopefully this article has shed some light on what these acronyms mean, and helped in some way to understand the limits of your vehicle. Now….off to the weigh bridge myself. For more information on safe towing and mass limits, please visit these sites: NRMA - https://www.mynrma.com.au/images/Motoring/NRMA_introduction_to_towing.pdf RACQ - https://www.racq.com.au/cars-and-driving/driving/towing/trailer-and-tow-vehicle-specifications Caravan Industry Association of Australia - http://www.caravancamping.net.au/Towing/Towing/index.html
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Future Fun Driver Development
General Meetings
Full trip details - all upcoming trips can be viewed at http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/upcoming-trips.html
There are some date and venue changes in 2017:
Registration for trips- please register for trips online. Enquiries about trips - please contact Driver Awareness Officers, post a message on the trip listing, or email to 4wdtraining@subaruclub.com.au Driver awareness officers: Brett Atkins
0412 208 874
Brian Flood
0425 270 385
FEBRUARY 2017 - Friday 10th Ermington Community Centre 8 River Rd, Ermington
MARCH 2017 - Friday 10th Ermington Community Centre 8 River Rd, Ermington
MARCH 2017 Saturday 18th March 2017
Grade: EASY Driver development at Lidsdale Experience unsealed forest roads, hill driving, and perhaps some low water crossings All welcome for this day as we will cater for all vehicle types.
MAY 2017 Saturday 20th May 2017 to Sunday 21st May 2017
92 Parramatta Rd, Lidcombe
MAY 2017 - Friday 12th Ermington Community Centre
JUNE 2017 - Friday 16th Exciting retail venue TBA
JULY 2017 - Sunday 23rd
Grade: HARD Driver development at Baal Bone Gap, an iconic track in the Lithgow area Experience unsealed forest roads, hill driving, and perhaps some low water crossings
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Ten Pin City
8 River Rd, Ermington
Grade: EASY *** Secret venue! *** Driver development and overnight stay
JUNE 2017 Sunday 4th June 2017
APRIL 2017 - Friday 7th
*** AGM and family picnic *** Western Sydney Parklands
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Future Fun - Events and Trips Full trip details - all upcoming trips can be viewed at http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/upcoming-trips.html Registration for trips- please register for trips online. Trip grading definitions - view online at http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/trip-grading-levels.html Enquiries about trips - please contact the trip leaders directly or post a message on the website
Coxs River Twilight Drive and BBQ Saturday 18th February 2017
February 2017
Social trip An afternoon drive in the Coxs River area, with a stop at the Coxs River Campground for a BBQ dinner (BYO meal). There are picnic tables, BBQ facilities but we will bring a gas BBQ just in case. We will also have a walk to the Bowtell Swing Bridge. Afterwards we will have a leisurely drive out in twilight and plan to be heading home about 9pm. Troy Strickland | 0409908977 | tstrickl@exemail.com.au
Watagans Wanderings Saturday 25th February 2017 to Sunday 26th February 2017 Easy grade Free and relaxing weekend with some stunning scenery. Arrive and set up camp first, followed by a drive in the Watagans. Sunday will be more driving in the Watagans and surrounding areas. We may be able to access a private property which has an access track into the Watagans. Ross Macbeth | 0459032511 | rmacbeth@internode.on.net
Association “Clean Up Australia� at Zig Zag Sunday 5th March 2017 Easy grade
March 2017
Come help Clean Up Australia around the Zig Zag area.
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For more information on Clean Up Australia, visit http://www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/ James Wall | jgwall@tpg.com.au and Troy Strickland | 0409908977 | tstrickl@exemail.com.au
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Future Fun - Events and Trips Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea - Eastern Creek Dragway/ 4wd Test Track Sunday 2nd April 2017 - 9am to 1pm (drive starts at 10am) Social Support Cancer research! Event hosted by Sydney Districts 4x4 Club and proudly supported by NSW & ACT 4WD Association. This will be a family day with a BBQ, fun events for the kids while the adults eat and mingle. Purchase a Day Pass for $10 and received unlimited driving on the 4WD Test Track for the day. Monster Guessing Competition with major prizes some of which include a set of tyres, Grande MK111 12,000lb Winch. Sydney District 4X4 is giving away a two-night family stay in a National Park Cabin. BBQ Sausage Sizzle, tea/coffee, and cold drinks will be available. Face Painting for the kids plus Bob The Minion will make an appearance. BYO chairs and sun shelter. Heidi Ploeg | 0438989793
| possum_heidi@yahoo.com.au
Wonnangatta Easter Weekend Part 1 Thursday 13th April 2017 to Tuesday 18th April 2017
April 2017
Medium grade Members must have completed a full Driver Awareness Day before attending this trip. Well set-up vehicles and drivers ready for some very steep tracks. Start heading south on Thursday evening. Spend 4 days exploring some great tracks, huts and campsites in the Victorian High Country. Travel home on Monday night or Tuesday or stay for Part 2. Mark Honor | 0418406118 | mjhonor@gmail.com
Easter in the Barringtons Friday 14th April 2017 to Monday 17th April 2017
Medium grade Enjoy Easter in the Barrington Tops. As this is an Alpine area, it might be cold. We will do a drive along Barrington Trail and to some lookouts. Craig Fitzpatrick | 0419013301 | c.fitzpatrick63@bigpond.com
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Future Fun - Events and Trips
May 2017
Currently no trips planned for May 2017. Got an idea for a trip or event? Contact Trip Conveners: trip_convener@subaruclub.com.au Troy Strickland
0409 908 977
Jason Finlayson
0402 055 100
Bendethera Long Weekend - Southern Explorer Series Saturday 10th June 2017 to Monday 12th June 2017
June 2017
Medium grade Members must have completed a full Driver Awareness Day before attending this trip. Well set-up vehicles and drivers ready for some very steep tracks. Start heading south on Thursday evening. Spend 4 days exploring some great tracks, huts and campsites in the Vic High Country and then travel home on Monday night or Tuesday or stay for Part 2.
Jason Finlayson | 0402055100 | finnos@waresoft.com.au
Bash & Beyond Friday 30th June 2017 to Saturday 15th July 2017
July 2017
Easy grade This trip is up to Birdsville for the iconic Big Red Bash. Headline acts this year include James Reyne, Mark Seymour, Jessica Malboy, and 25th Anniversary concert of Lee Kernaghan. More acts to be released before the event. Please note the cost of this trip does not include camping fees en route to Birdsville or concert fees. Concert tickets need to be purchased by individual participants. Including camping fees and 3 day concert, tickets are $395 adults and $65 children. Get your tickets at http://www.bigredbash.com.au/bigredbash/index We will need to arrive in Birdsville as a group to camp together. After leaving Birdsville, instead of returning to Sydney we will be exploring Diamantina National Park and a bit of Outback Queensland before returning home. Joshua Parkinson | 0400041225 | jparkin1@internode.on.net and
September 2017
Jo Quinn | 0409771019 | j.quinn@uws.edu.au
Hawkesbury Relay for Life - Hawkesbury Showground *** Date changed *** Saturday 9th September 2017 to Sunday 10th September 2017 Social trip Please join us for our 10th year of participation in the fight against cancer. For those not familiar with our involvement in the Relay, we usually set up and staff a “camp kitchen” to sell foodstuff to raise funds and, optionally, camp overnight. I encourage you to join us for some fun at this year’s event by registering via our team page as well as register for the trip at the club website. Donations to our team effort are very welcome and can be made via the team page link. Kevin McCormack | 0428408568 | kevin_mccormack@bigpond.com
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
MEMBER PROFILE:
Meet the Capratsis family Year joined
2011
Live in
Silverwater
In 5 words...
Nick - Quiet until there are drinks involved! Amanda - Speaks too much with or without alcohol. Charlie - Full on! Happy go lucky easy going
Hobbies
Nick- Fishing, camping, 4wding, skiing and tinkering with things all day long
Current vehicle
Nissan Patrol GUII 2011 3.0 CRD
Vehicle mods
Dual Battery, OME Lift kit, Mud tires, Shelving to back storage compartment, Bullbar, Winch, Pioneer roof tray, Driving lights, In -car entertainment, ARB air lockers, Manual free-wheeling hubs, Diff and air snorkels, Canvas seat covers, GME radio.
Nick, Charlie, and Amanda What the club means to you
The club has grown to be an extended family to us, the people met and experiences had cannot be replaced or beaten.
Best club trip or event
Driver Training in Southern Highlands / Vic High country
Most enjoyable club moment
The evening where driver training went that little bit further in the Southern Highlands.
Advice to other 4WD’ers
Just have fun at what you are doing, no need to rush, the bush ain’t going anywhere.
Camping set up
Practical and still working it out
Favourite track
Blue Rag Range Track (Victorian High Country)
First club trip or event
Stockton New Members trip 2011
Dream destination
No actual destination, but just to keep going around, just not through the centre.
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
Watagans Weekend Watagans National Park Meeting point: Sparks Road 12 - 13 November 2016 Led by Mark Honor Chief navigator Craig Fitzpatrick
Attendees: Andrew Wise Kim Nolan Troy Strickland Michael Hamilton Paul Sistrom Ross Macbeth Scott Ashhurst Tony McManus Chris and Bernadette Tiller David Lang and Liz Way Ehab Metwally and family Report by Mark Honor After the downpour on Friday night we thought there might be a few less members arriving at the Sparks Road meeting point. This was not the case; we had a full trip and Craig was ready to lead us into the Watagan State Forest and surrounding national parks. After climbing to the top of the range from Morisset we checked out a few of the camping areas like the Pines and Turpentine. There were some private camping spots amongst the trees, but they are not good places for solar, if that is what you need. Following morning tea, Craig lead us north along the Watagan Forest Road to Boarding House Dam. This small dam was built as a water supply for the longest serving and largest logging camp in the area. After a short walk along the creel we pushed on to Heaton’s Lookout on the eastern side of the range. There were spectacular views to the north, east and south. Craig, Paul and others who know the Central Coast well were able to point out power stations, roads, shopping centres and suburbs where they live or had lived. It was a very clear day, perfect for looking out. The next stop was Hunter Lookout were we had lunch and enjoyed spectacular views north towards Cessnock, Maitland, and Singleton. After lunch we travelled through Ellalong, Paxton, and Millfield on our way to Wollombi, which was to be our camp for the night. We stopped at a vinery to soak up some culture of the “sculptures in the vineyard” and while there took the opportunity to taste some of the local produce. Five minutes later we arrived at the Wollombi Hotel where the camping behind the hotel was excellent.
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
Watagans Weekend Once camp was set up, some went exploring local tracks and others went exploring the local. Later we all enjoyed a meal at the pub with only several people in the group testing the “Dr Jurds Jungle Juice”. A few cars were on a day trip and returned home after dinner.
Heaton’s Lookout… spectacular views to the north, east, and south.
On Sunday morning, we shared breakfast with more flies than anyone had ever seen before. It was good to be on the road again, spending the first 30 minutes removing the dirty little hitch hikers from inside the car. We took Dry Arm Track and then Benns Road which joined on to Finchley Track taking us into the Yengo NP. There are some really magic places in this area and to top everything off, the 360 degree view from Finchley Trig and lookout made the flies at breakfast worth the trouble.
When we returned to the Great North Road we headed south until making a right turn into Mogo Creek Road. Some of the convey who needed to return early continued through to Peats Ridge and home. The rest of us found the old convict road and spent some time checking out the remains of an old bridge. The stone work was just fantastic and if left alone will last another 150 years. Lunch at Mogo Camping area an easy drive down to St Albans on the Macdonald River. We gave consideration to an ale for washing down the dust but considering the queue was out the door and down the garden path we pushed on to the Webb Creek ferry were we joined another queue. Everyone was out and about on this beautiful Sunday afternoon. Across the mighty Hawkesbury River and we were on our way home to all points of the compass. Thank you for your company.
View from Heaton’s Lookout
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
West Kunderang West Kunderang 26 December 2016 to 3 January 2017 Led by Mark and Karolyn Honor Attendees: Jason and Karen Finlayson Troy and Sandi Strickland Chris and Bernadette Tiller Kim Nolan Geoff Adcock Report by Mark Honor
West Kunderang is a working cattle station situated on the upper reaches of the Macleay River, surrounded by the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. The property has about 9 camp sites along the river, all of which are secluded with their own basic facilities. During the early hours of Boxing morning 2016 we made coffee and put the last few bags in the car ready for a short drive to Armidale from Camden. Just after 10am the group started to arrive, picking up fuel, ice and those things you remember when you’re on the road. Around 11am we headed 40kms east towards Wollomombi on the Waterfall Way, then we Hart’s Waterhole turned right on to the Old Kempsey Road for another 20km until turning right again on to Raspberry Trail. After travelling another 40 km we arrived at the private property of West Kunderang. Our camp site with green mowed grass was ready and waiting for us. The day was warm and the camp set up begun in earnest so we could grab a drink and head for the cool water of the river. This was the first day, with only 8 days remaining..... Tuesday morning saw us setting up more solar panels and extra shelter to keep the fridges and freezers running for the next week. Even with plenty of sun light you can never have too much solar when camping during summer. We checked out the property by driving, kayaking, and walking. Not everyone did all three but we all spent plenty of time swimming and enjoying the clear fresh waters of the Macleay River. This was to be one of those trips where you do as much or a little as you want. Each afternoon there was the mandatory happy hour followed by great meals and a camp fire that was for ambiance only due to the very hot days and evenings. It was amusing seeing everyone sitting back 10 or 15 metres from the fire. The busy days in and around the river meant some club members did not even stay up long enough to see the fire.
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
West Kunderang There is no mobile phone coverage or TV reception at the property unless Geoff sets up his new satellite TV system. With Troy’s help, he had perfect coverage of the Boxing Day test and other things. Karolyn, Sandi, and Karen were able to do the daily welfare checks of their girls using text messages via our satellite phone. On Wednesday, we drove south from the property on the extension of Raspberry Trail to a locked gate. The views from the top are magnificent, and it’s a good opportunity to catch up on a few phone calls and Facebook. Following this drive we found the most perfect swimming and relaxing location. Hart’s Waterhole is located on the upstream boundary of the property with a smooth river stone bottom that gets deeper as you walk up stream. With awnings setup on the cars it was the perfect spot to spend many hours. On Thursday Troy and Sandi followed by Chris and Bernadette took a run into Armidale for supplies. Jason was up early on Thursday to start slow cooking a … smooth river brisket for dinner. stone bottom With more that gets deeper food from as you walk up everyone and fresh stream. bread from Armidale we enjoyed a feast fit for royalty. Our hosts, Max and Cindy called in for a “meet and greet” drink. We were pleased they accepted our dinner invitation, the very least we could do considering how well we are looked after at West Kunderang. The days all seemed to blend in to a very relaxing time. With more canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, walking, reading, sleeping and general holidaying it was time for some of the group to travel home ready for work on New Year’s Day, and others to have a day unpacking before returning to work on Tuesday. The week had been hot so the storms on Sunday afternoon and rain on Monday was fairly enjoyable. By Monday night we had a small camp of just Mark, Karolyn, and Geoff. Tuesday morning 3rd January 2017 meant we needed to pack up and travel home. The rain stayed away and everything was dry, thus a perfect end to a great week.
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
Australia Day at Colo River Bielany Campground 213 Upper Colo Road, Colo Wednesday 25th to Sunday 29th January 2017 Led by Jo and Shahni Quinn - Ford Ranger Attendees:
Kim Nolan Geoff Adcock John and Jean Hosking Mark and Karolyn Honor Tom and Cath De Santis Craig “no shoes” Fitzpatrick Robert and Sandra Moss Dennis and Nell Hoffman Chris Mifsud and Kelly Maxwell Anne-Marie Meade, with Travis Harley and Lyn Sadler, with Grace Coreena Ferry and Adrian McCormack Richard and Rashida Stevens, with family Paul and Karen Campbell, with Taylor and friend Nick and Amanda Capratsis, with Charlie Troy and Sandi Strickland, with Kaitlin and Lauren Brett and Fiona Hampson, with Chantelle Chris and Bernadette Tiller, with family
Report by Jo Quinn Down to Bielany for our beaut Aussie Day What does it mean to be Aussie? I hear you say. We know we're Aussie when everything ends in "O" Like Garbo, Arvo, Servo, Rego, and Bottl’o When a watering hole is a pub And awesome food is better known as grub You know our anthem, but not the meaning of girt And a good looking sheila is a female in a skirt A boomer is a big ass, massive roo A dunny the good 'ol outdoor loo Our great land, better known as Down Under To regurgitate, is to spew or chunder "Your shout" means you're up for the next drink Overpacking is taking more than the kitchen sink Fair Dinkum!? In other words, you're telling the truth And something awesome needs the word struth! Cake hole is not food, but rather your mouth Back of Woop Woop maybe north, east, west or south A sausage is better known as a banger A sandwich definitely, more likely a sanger!
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
Australia Day at Colo River Dangerous critters and many a Joe Blake To those uneducated, it is a snake If you're going to kark it, you're going to die Not telling the truth is telling a porky pie Not feeling well, you're probably crook To be a sticky beak is having a Captain Cook Someone dumb is a stubby short of a six pack And a sheila with big boobs has an awesome rack We proudly say Penrith as "Pen-riff" A fight is a blue with a bit of a biff A city or town is the Big Smoke And a male more typically, a bloke Give us break, don't come the raw prawn You know full well stubbies can be drunk or worn! When in trouble we do the Harold Holt In other words, we disappear, do the bolt Tinny can mean lucky, a can or a boat To be annoying means you get on someone's goat! Dead horse goes with every meat pie Love our Aussie lingo, it's Dinky Di! The Subie Club celebrating our National Day Out in the bush, there's no better way! All decked out in our red, white and blue Aussie pride for all, through and through Camped close we hear every snore, sneeze and fart But let’s face it, better than being far apart A debate on the Pav, is it from across the ditch? One thing for sure, we can claim the cricket pitch! The Subie Test and Nell's having a fit, As every second ball on her van was a direct hit! Thongs were worn, raced and tossed All good till more than one we lost We cleared the river with our big thong race Chris the winner, setting a cracking pace! Craig a hit with his balls of roo For Karen's Pav we had a big queue Bucket hats and zinc cream noses Cath in the shade, she lightly dozes.
Around the fire, under the Southern Cross Time for some tinnies and to catch up on goss Crank up the music and time for the odd tune, Under the light of a rising moon Awesome mates and funny times Forever keeping track of rising fines! A massive weekend, thanks to all those who came Not the first and not the last, I'm sure we'll do it again! A great celebration for our Australia Day, See ya out there somewhere along the way! ď ľ www.subaru4wdclub.com.au
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
TRIP REPORTS:
Australia Day at Colo River
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
TRIP PROCEDURES Equipment All vehicles should be in good mechanical condition and carry the following basic equipment on all club trips: - Spare wheel - Jack - Wheel brace - Basic tools - Shovel - First aid kit - Recovery gear
Stay in touch On trips, our club uses broadcast channel 15 UHF The alternate channel is 16 UHF
Convoy procedures 1 - Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, especially when roads are rough or dusty. 2 - Maintain position in convoy except in unusual circumstances. 3 - Wait at intersections to ensure that the vehicle behind you knows which way to go. If radio contact has been made, directions may be given over the CB, to allow the convoy to keep moving. 4 - When arriving at a hard section, eg creek crossing, steep hill, washout etc, wait for the vehicle ahead to clear, or to be called through on the CB. 5 - Stay on the track; don’t stray into the bush! 6 - If you want to leave the convoy, tell the trip leader. Don’t just wander off! 7 - If using the CB, allow time between transmissions for others to call. Keep transmissions short to allow for emergency transmissions. 8 - When there is an emergency call, the trip leader should be the ONLY person to reply. If the trip leader is not contactable, an appointed person will relay the message. Cease all other transmissions until the trip leader advises that the emergency is over. Radio silence may be broken for another emergency. 9 - Only people nominated by the trip leader should help others through obstacles (“Too many cooks …”) 10 - The position of “tail-end Charlie” will be allotted by the trip leader. This person will be required to advise the Trip Leader of various events during the trip, and stay with his/her vehicle and operate the CB should an emergency situation arise. 11 - Take only photos and video; leave only foot prints and tyre tracks.
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Committee Reports Happy February Everyone,
VICE PRESIDENT / SOCIAL CONVENER
I hope you have had a relaxing festive season, and like me, you are looking forward to some cooler weather in which to enjoy a nice camp fire and great company before winter arrives when we are going to have to really rug up!
Barefoot Bowls Trip Report - I would like to thank all of those members who braved the heat and came
along to our bare foot bowls night. All in all, we had around 26 members join us for either dinner and bowls, or just bowls or just dinner and a chat. Some sat and watched (thanks for the commentary from our expert green keeper: Craig No Shoes) and some played very well, while others not so well! There was no overall winner as it was a very relaxed and social night. On the whole, I think we all had an enjoyable night. There were a few meat tray winners which would have come in handy for the weekend and everyone went home by around 9:30-10pm. Our next social gathering will be a 10 PIN BOWLING NIGHT in APRIL which will be held at Tenpin City, Lidcombe. Don’t forget to register for this event so that I can book enough lanes. There is a café/bar there for dinner before the event. You are welcome to come along and not bowl or just come for bowling and not eat.
The choice is yours! That’s all from me for now, I look forward to seeing you out there, down a track or around a camp fire somewhere! Take care,
Sandi Welcome to the December / January report from the trip convenors.
TRIP CONVENERS
It feels like we only just returned from the Xmas\New Year West Kunderang Trip, where we enjoyed some very warm days located in the river. Good friends and good times. If you haven't had the opportunity to visit West Kunderang then you have been missing out on a wonderful camping spot.
A few extended trips are already on the calendar for 2017, including the Victorian High Country and Birdsville (separate trips, unless you are very retired). There has been some talk around the October school holidays but nothing booked in as yet, so if you have an idea for something that you would like to run, please let us know.
For those who like to keep track of their busy lives with a calendar, you can make use of the Export Calendar feature in the Upcoming Trips section of our club’s website. If you would like to run a trip, please register it on the club website and if you are new to being a trip leader than we are more than happy to assist. All the best,
Troy & Jason
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Committee Reports Hi Everyone,
WEB MASTER
Over the last few weeks I have made a few more changes to Trip creation and Registration. Last October we unrestricted visitors so that they could register for trips, like Driver Development.
The latest changes are include some new options when Submitting a Trip to better control this and make it easier for the trip leader. Once you have entered in the basic information and selected the Event Type as "Trip", you will then go to the next page to complete a few extra details: Automatically approve registered member: no need for the trip leader to approve registrations for financial members Financial Members only - no visitors:
Restricts the trip to Financial members only. Visitors can no longer register. This is used for Driver Development events or possibly extended trips.
These changes will allow visitors to register for a trip but also not allow them to register for events where visitors are restricted. The automatic approving of members will take the delay out of seeing your name on the list of attendees. If there are any further requests for changes or ideas, please come and talk to me at a trip or meeting, or send an email to webmaster@subaruclub.com.au. Cheers,
Troy
NEW >
NEW >
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Committee Reports G’Day from James and David, your dynamic duo. We have now been your Club Delegates to Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT for three months. In that time James has attended the October Greater 4WD DELEGATES Sydney Region meeting and both of us have attended the November Greater Sydney Region meeting. Together with our President, Mark, we attended the November Quarterly meeting which was combined with the AGM. There are no more meetings to attend until mid-February. This gives us time to reflect on what we have learned so far in our role. Our aim is to be as involved with the Association and projects as time permits, and to try to get you, the members, involved in some way as well. We will keep you informed of what Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT is doing for us and let you know of any activities that you might be able to assist with in the Association’s activities to promote our recreation. November Quarterly Meeting and AGM – 19 November 2016 at Liverpool This was a long day, which could have been only half the duration if some standard meeting procedures had been practiced on the day, but it gave us time for some nice sandwiches and fruit for lunch. The executive members gave reports and the main points were: •
The Association is back on track delivering goals to members and clubs.
•
Membership of the Association has stopped decreasing and is starting to increase.
•
The Association currently has 72 clubs of which 27 are in the Greater Sydney Region.
•
The Association website is having a major upgrade and there will be periods of outages while this occurs.
•
We can also stay connected with the Association via their Facebook page – NSW & ACT 4WD Association.
•
Financially, the Association is currently in a good position.
•
The Association magazine was handed out, one copy per club, and stickers were given out.
•
The current Association Committee were all re-elected.
Constitution changes After a lot of fuss about voting rights and how many votes were required to pass the motions on notice for changes to the Constitution, they were finally put to the meeting. James voted in favour of all seven motions as directed by our membership. Six of the motions were passed by the required margin at the meeting: •
Primary subscriptions per club were limited and will be capped at 300 if they have a greater number of members. Members above 300 only pay secondary subscriptions. Amounts to be determined by general meeting at least 12 months in advance.
•
All projects over $20,000 in value to be approved by a general meeting.
•
Removed the requirement for AGM approval for committee member to serve more than 3 years in a row in the same position.
•
Committee nominations to be given at least 2 months before AGM. Confirmed that if no nominations received they will be called for from the floor at the meeting.
•
Clubs will be limited to 4 votes (one per 75 members or part thereof)
•
Approval for the committee to change incorporation from ACT to NSW if deemed necessary in the future. This might require wholesale updates to the current constitution due to different legislation in both locations.
•
Motion not passed – to allow the committee to appoint additional members for projects. This motion had speakers against and it was not passed as the committee can always create a sub-committee to cover extra tasks for projects.
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Committee Reports
4WD DELEGATES Continued
November Greater Sydney Region Meeting – 28 November 2016 at Granville • Meeting with NSW Government Ministers in Lithgow regarding $20,000 Lithgow Project to be featured in Bathurst paper. Funds may be available for other future projects. Minister keen for a ‘track info book’ for NSW with an app which could be used to notify of park usage and log issues.
•
National 4x4 Association want a business proposal for national survey on recreational industry in regards to the monies spent in the industry.
•
My Airley (Capertee area) is now open again, graded up to the bottom with a small car park area. No drainage installed so major rain could undo some of this work.
•
Daniels Point Road (Watagans area) closed for the foreseeable future.
•
New Hercules snatch strap found to have absolutely no elasticity during recent training. Standards to be looked at and currently being re-written. All Trip Leaders should check recovery equipment before use to ensure compliance and still in good condition.
•
Working groups regarding vehicle standards: 1. Bull Bar exception extended as final documents are incomplete. 2. Suspension regulations have been released, going for gazetting. Huge effort from all involved. The result is that what you could do 6 years ago, you can now do legally 3. "After-market lighting", working on a plain English document encompassing all after-market lighting (not just LED bars). May not get a result for 2 years
Association Quarterly Meetings 2017 At these meetings reports are given from the Executive and sub committees to update us on issues that are of interest to us as Four Wheel Drivers and people that enjoy the great outdoors in our wonderful state. •
18 February 2017 in Wagga Wagga – both James and David will be attending.
•
20 May 2017 in TBA
•
19 August 2017 in TBA
•
18 November 2017 in TBA – combined with the Association’s AGM
Some other dates for your 2017 diary •
2 April 2017 - Biggest Morning Tea at Eastern Creek (Hosts: Sydney Districts)
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27 May 2017 - inter-club bowling night at Campbelltown (Hosts: Macarthur)
•
13, 14, and 15 October 2017 - Adventure show at Eastern creek “Stay safe on the tracks” from him and “happy travels” from me.
James Wall and David Wellham Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT is the Association to which our great club is a member. Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT is the peak body for Four Wheel Drivers in NSW and the ACT, and represents us to Government and Land Managers (National Parks, State Forests, Crown Lands, Department of Primary Industries) on issues like track access, track closures, vehicle standards. The Association also provide accredited driver training, access to a number of locked areas, and have started a track classification program. The Association provides us with access to cost effective insurance and a link to ‘Four Wheel Drive Australia’ – the National body representing the 4WD community Australia wide. Have a look and register on the Association’s website – www.4wdnow.com www.subaru4wdclub.com.au
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Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc.
CLUB GEAR Place orders online, in person, or by email: http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/club-shop.html Karolyn Honor 0459 111 096 membership@subaruclub.com.au
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Drive Torque
December 2016 - January 2017
Committee Contacts Position
Name
Phone
President
Mark Honor
0418 406 118
president@subaruclub.com.au
Vice president
Sandi Strickland
0414 870 168
vicepresident@subaruclub.com.au
Treasurer
Sandra Moss
0438 276 012
treasurer@subaruclub.com.au
Secretary
Cath De Santis
0413 474 630
secretary@subaruclub.com.au
Membership secretary
Karolyn Honor
0459 111 096
membership@subaruclub.com.au
Brian Flood
0425 270 385
Brett Atkins
0412 208 874
Driver awareness officers Trip conveners Association Delegates
Troy Strickland Jason 0409 908 977 Finlayson
0402 055 100
James Wall David Wellham
0407 089 071
4wdtraining@subaruclub.com.au trip_convener@subaruclub.com.au delegates@subaruclub.com.au
Editor
Rashida Stevens
editor@subaruclub.com.au
Technical officer
Brett Hampson
0408 409 634
technical_officer@subaruclub.com.au
Public relations
Jo Quinn
0409 771 019
publicity@subaruclub.com.au
Web master
Troy Strickland
0409 908 977
webmaster@subaruclub.com.au
Social convener
Sandi Strickland
0414 870 168
social_convener@subaruclub.com.au
Fund raising
Karen Campbell
0430 842 101
fund_raising@subaruclub.com.au
Catering
*** vacant ***
catering@subaruclub.com.au
Sergeant at arms
Robert Moss
sergeant-at-arms@subaruclub.com.a
Public offer
Paul Sistrom
Coming up in the next issue of Drive Torque: •
Stockton Beach driver training
•
Cox’s River twilight trip
•
Meet new members David Lang and Liz Way
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