December january 2016 by Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc

DRIVE

www.subaru4wdclub.com general@subaruclub.com.au

TORQUE

December 2015 January 2016

Way Points Committee Reports -

President Subi Club Awards Fivesies Social Editor Public Relations Webmaster Delegate - Minutes

Ian’s Shop Club Shop Trip Reports - Man from Coxs River Driver Awareness No Name Trip Christmas Party Lostock Dam Future Fun Member Profile Trip Gradings Convoy Procedures Minutes - Club Minutes - Association A-Z of National Parks

5 6 7 8 9 10 10 11 16 17 18 21 26 29 34 37 40 41 42 43 44 46

Committee President – Julie Rush president@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0409 307 381

Vice President – Mark Honor Ph: 0418 406 118 vicepresident@subaruclub.com.au

Secretary – Cath DeSantis secretary@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0413 474 630

Treasurer – Sandra Moss treasurer@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0438 276 012

Membership Secretary–Karolyn Honor Ph: 0459 111 096 membership@subaruclub.com.au

Public Relations – James Wall publicity@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 47362619

Editor – Julie Rush editor@subaruclub.com.au

Trip Convener – Mark Honor Ph: 0418 406 118 Trip Convener – Troy Strickland Ph: 0409 908 977 trip_convener@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0409 307 381

Information Officer – Jo Quinn Ph: 0409 771 019 technical_officer@subaruclub.com.au 4WD Assoc. Delegate – Evan King Ph: 0402 411 742 4WD Assoc. Delegate - your name here delegates@subaruclub.com.au Webmaster – Troy Strickland Ass. Webmaster – Evan King webmaster@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0428 408 568 Ph: 0402 411 742

Fundraising – Gillian Wall fund_raising@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 47362619

Driver Awareness – Brian Flood Driver Awareness – Brett Atkins 4wdtraining@subaruclub.com.au

Ph: 0425 270 385 Ph: 0412 208 874

Sergeant-@-Arms – Robert Moss Ph: 9820 2128 sergeant-at-arms@subaruclub.com.au Catering Officer – Karen Campbell Ph: 0430 842 101 catering@subaruclub.com.au

Social Convener – Sandi Strickland Ph: 0414 870 168 social_convener@subaruclub.com.au Public Officer – Paul Sistrom

Public Officer@subaruclub.com.au

General Meetings Place:

Ermington Community Centre 10 River Road Ermington

Postal Address:

PO Box 161 Parramatta NSW 2124

Email Address:

Date:

Second Friday of each month Meeting starts 8pm Finishes approx 9.30pm

Web:

www.subaru4wdclub.com

general@subaruclub.com.au

LUCKY MEMBER JACKPOT UP TO $150 - must be in attendance to claim prize. Next meeting 12 February

Committee Meetings Committee Meetings are held on the Tuesday prior to the general meeting starting at 7.30pm at the homes of committee members – all members are welcome to attend. Please contact the President for details of location each month.

In an emergency Club Personnel appointed as first contact in the event of a problem on a trip: Troy Strickland 0409 908 977 Mark Honor 0418 406 118

Trip Reports Trip leaders, please remember to select someone to write the Trip Report for you. Whether you ask a specific person, ask the group if someone would like to, toss a coin to choose or use the old tradition of last person to the meeting point; that’s up to you but please have someone selected, preferably early in the trip so they can take notes if they wish, but definitely by the end of the trip. Also it would be great to encourage any keen photographers on your trip to send their best few photos to the editor, high resolution images work best - it’s worth points now!

Happy Birthday - December/January Zoe Rush David Ackermann Neil Hird Alison Lucas Kevin McCormack

Jo Quinn Katelin Ackermann Nick Capratsis David Lauric Julie Kirkby

Tony McManus Pat Malone Brian Flood Ryan Ackermann

Grant Lucas David Horwitz Leanne Minny Karolyn Honor

President’s Report By the time you are reading this it will already be 2016 – I hope everyone had a very happy new year. I know we certainly did. Lostock was lovely as usual and the river was great for cooling off in this year after a few cleanouts in 2015. I attended the Association Quarterly Meeting/AGM in November and it was a very interesting day. There was certainly a lot of information to be taken in and I will give a brief overview elsewhere in the magazine but I must say it was great to see so many clubs in attendance, some from quite far away – Port Macquarie 4WD Club, Tamworth 4WD Club and LROC ACT were sitting on the same table as me. I have to say that while the Association has had its share of rough times, it is clear that the present team are working hard to promote the Association and what we do and have worked hard to get a lot of new projects off the ground. It sounds like the Show Sub-Committee was a great success and made a huge difference to the Eastern Creek Show this year – it sounds like it might be time to give the show anothter go – dependant on costs, of course. What a great christmas party we had in early December. Thanks to Sandi and all those that helped to make it such a success. The trivia certainly brought out some fighting spirit in some! The food was great and its hard to beat Myall River Camp as a venue - beautiful weather again saw us make the most of the river. Welcome aboard to our newest advertisers - AllDriveSubaroo and SRAutobody. Please support our advertisers whenever possible. The calendar is filling up nicely for the first half of the year. There is the Burralow Picnic day which will meet up with the Drive Day group. Following that is Jo’s Australia Day Weekend away at Grady’s Riverside Retreat just out of Nowra, that should be lots of fun! February is jam packed with something on just about every weekend including Driver Awareness, More of Chichester with David and Joey and a return visit to Windellama with Kevin. Mark is heading down to the High Country at Easter, such was the popularity of this trip it filled up within a few days. There is also trips to Barrington Tops and the Pub With No Beer on over Easter so plenty to choose from. James has also put up an extended trip started towards the end of April but there’s only 3 spots so get in quick. Then of course, there is Relay for Life back on in May - a great cause to help out with if you are free that weekend. Don’t forget that at our March meeting we will be talking about “All you ever wanted to know about running a trip”. Come along with all your questions, queries and concerns. There will be some handouts at this meeting as well. Cheers

Julie The Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club, its Editor and the Committee accept no responsibility for opinions expressed in this magazine, nor for the accuracy, veracity, safety or legality of any product or modification. Material for publication should be submitted to the Editor NO LATER than the dates advised. Photographs should be high resolution and include a descriptive caption, if applicable. The inclusion of photos with trip reports is especially encouraged. Information can be sent to the Editor by email to editor@subaruclub.com.au.

SUBI CLUB AWARDS I have started compiling everyone’s points tally - running a trip is a great way to get some extra points and there’s plenty of room on the calendar: 1 point - attending a meeting (make sure you sign in) 1 point - giving a trip report at a meeting 2 point - leading a day trip 3 points - leading a 2-4 day trip 4 points - leading an extended trip (5 or more days) 1 point - attending a day trip 2 points - attending a 2-4 day trip 3 points - attending an extended trip (5 or more days) 1 point - writing a trip report 2 points - if the report gets to the Editor within 2 days of the trip 1 point - for sending photos of a trip to Editor 2 points - if the photos reach the Editor within 2 days of the trip 1 point - for a magazine article From the 2016 AGM, members will also earn 1 point for taking on a committee position. Holding more than one position does not mean additional points. They will also not receive points for committee reports submitted for the magazine but they will still be entitled to points for any other articles sent to the Editor. Note: A committee member who runs trips as part of their normal committee position cannot gain a points advantage from performing their normal duties. This applies especially to Driver Awareness and Social Convener, eg. The Driver Awareness Officer who runs a training day will get 1 point only for attending the trip. They do not get an additional point for leading the trip. eg. Social Convener who runs a 'Xmas Party’ will get 1 point only for attending - no additional points for leading the 'trip'. However, should either run another trip outside their position, then points for attending and leading will be earned by that person as this trip is not part of their normal activities.

CLUB CALENDAR for full details see Future Fun on pages

January February March April May

Meeting - Barefoot Bowls Happy Birthday Australia Driver Awareness Weekend More of Chichester to explore High Country Holidays Easter at Barrington Tops Caves to Caves Manning Point Relay for Life

Picnic Day in the Lower Mountains Windellema Wandering II Pub with No Beer Trek BBS 2016 - Epilogue

Future Fun and the calendar in this edition of Drive Torque are correct at the time of printing. For the latest calendar information, see the club’s website: subaru4wdclub.com. Members wanting to join a trip should register on the Club’s website. Please remember to check with the trip leader a day or so before the trip to allow the trip leader to advise members of any changes or cancellations. Don’t forget to advise the trip leader if you need to pull out.

Fivesies - What on earth can I put on the table? 5pm drinks and nibblies is a bit of an institution on our club trips. It’s a great way to gather everyone together at the end of the day to talk about the day’s adventures, get to know new members or just catch up with old friends Have you ever been stuck for something to put on the table? Worse still, when you were new to the club and someone mentioned ‘fivesies’, were you totally at a loss to even know what that might be - don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here’s some ideas for your next fivesies plate. are esies go to and we fiv t ea gr a s ay w al e DIPS ar when e days. Remember es th ce oi ch r fo lt so spoi nts sachet buy the dry ingredie you used to have to cream! and mix it with sour ith it such s a ‘dipper’ to go w A dip obviously need sticks. ker biscuits or bread ac cr r he ot or e ric , as Jatz ps. Vegies t with salsa style di Corn chips are grea baby psicum, cucumber, ca , ot rr ca , ry le ce such as t dippers. peas also make grea ow sn d an ni hi cc zu , corn, cauliflower

CHIPS

are another qu ick idea along with pretzels and popcorn etc.

Everyone loves CHEESE and for me, it’s hard to beat a good triple cream brie, but others love a blue or a camembert. Then, of course, there are the popular fruit cheeses like apricot and almond or honey and pistachio as well as good old cubed cheddar. The flavoured cheeses like pepper, wasabi, pickled onion etc make a nice change as well. Of course, cheese needs something to be put on, usually just a plain cracker so it doesn’t take away from the taste of the cheese. Quince paste and wine jellies also pair nicely with cheese as does fruit like apples, grapes and pear. NUTS are great with a drink - peanuts, almonds, are always TS UR KF AN FR IL TA CK beer nuts, cashews, CO or es sag sau ata pol chi pistachios as well as dried popular as are plain atas. pol chi le sty y nks kra the for fruits and trail mixes. go you can can and at tre ty tas r Meatballs are anothe de. Don’t be shop bought frozen or home ma ! forget the tomato and bbq sauces

COLD MEATS are another gre

at item to add to the table. Eg. salamis, cabanossi, sliced ham, prosciutto. Serve with pickled onions or gherkins, sundried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes, baby bocco ncini or marinated fetta.

These are just a few ideas, all items can be picked up at your local supermarket.

Social Convenerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Report Hello from the Social Convenor! Well, the Christmas party went off without a hitch and I would like to thank everyone who attended for helping to make this the success that it was! The meal we shared was delicious (one member was even heard commenting that it was one of the best meals he had had with the club!!) and the cocktails were potent! Congratulations to the winners of our Christmas trivia and also a big thanks to Santa and his little helper...who also had some classic answers to the trivia questions. Early next year the club will be holding a very relaxed January meeting at Brush Park Bowling Club (see Future Fun for details). Bowling will commence at 8pm as per usual but a BBQ will be available from 6pm if you would like to eat (as the restaurant will be closed at that time). More details about that will be updated closer to the date so check the forum and FB page. Look at the website in the next few months for more social activities including another wine tasting weekend in the Hunter Valley, a social gathering at Tree Tops Adventure Park and a wine and cheese night/weekend at Burralow once it starts getting a bit cooler. All the very best wished for a wonderful 2016!

Sandi Strickland

FOR SALE I am sorry to say that I need to sell my 2013 Spacematic Regal Camper Trailer with Trans Continental Pack Price:

$20,000

Includes : - 12m rego - queen size bed - fully enclosed canvas annex - electric brakes - AGM Deep cycle battery - CTEK battery charger - 140w solar panel - roll out kitchen - roll out pantry - 3way fridge - wedge tool box - stone guard - pole carrier - extra storage hatch on drivers side

Editorially speaking … Guidelines for Writing Trip Reports/Magazine articles Everyone really enjoys reading Trip Reports about the different trips the club members run. So to help you get the most out of your report, here are some guidelines for writing Trip Reports and magazine articles When writing the Report: * * * * * * * * *

Create your report using Word List all the attendees ie first and last names Trip Leader - Name Author – Name Photographer - Name (if sending photos as well) Include their vehicles if possible Include the children Photos should be high resolution at least 1-2MB— JPEG preferable Email to: editor@subaruclub.com.au as soon as possible after the trip

Hope this helps!

Julie

You must be joking… Twas the night before Christmas, In Australia you know,

There'll be plenty of travelin' for you-all tonight..

Way down on the beach, without any snow.

The driver in his bathers, and a towel that was red, Had a bright red sun hat on the top of his head.

Asleep in their beach hut, were Bud and Sue, A dreaming of Christmas, like me and like you.

As he stepped from the ute, he was really a sight, with his beard so curly and white.

Not stockings but jet skis , at the foot of their beds, For this was Australia, What more need be said?

As he burst in the beach hut, the children awoke, And both so astonished, that neither one spoke.

When all of a sudden from out the still night, There came such a ruckus, it gave me a fright!

And he filled up their jet skis with such presents galore, That neither could think of a single thing more.

And I saw 'cross the sand dunes, like the shot from a gun, a loaded up ute, come on at a run.

When Bud recovered the use of his jaws, He asked in a whisper "Are you really Santa Claus?"

The driver was shouting as he left the road

"Am I the real Santa? Well, what do you think? And he smiled as he gave his mysterious wink.

And the Heelers were sitting on top of the load

Then he left in his ute, and called back in slang g'day CHILDREN OF Aussie-MERRY CHRISTMAS cooee!

"Come on there Blue, Dufor, and Dog, hold on tight

Public Relations Officer’s Report Some end of the year PR news. I can announce a new club sponsor. SR Autobody has joined the family, so look on our website sponsors page for details and their magazine advertisement appears in this edition. They are offering a 10% discount discount off your insurance excess or private repairs to your vehicle for all Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club members. The Subaru AWD Experience that the club is running will be on 17 January. There will be two day trips being run that day, the second being run by Mark & Troy, arriving at Burralow campground for a meet and greet/BBQ. More details very soon, but keep the day in mind. It will be a great way for the club to start the new year and for you to be involved with YOUR club. Best wishes to you all for the holidays. Have fun and keep safe.

James Wall

Webmaster’s Report Welcome everyone to a new year. I hope you have all had a great break over Christmas and New year and been able to get away on some trips and away from those screen devices. The web site is going well with some new sponsors going up thanks to James, so check out the links to see what they have to offer. A few minor enhancements have been made to make life a bit easier. For those putting up trips on the website, the Trip Conveners will also get an alert when someone registers for a trip. This way they can be approved quicker for trip leaders not on the committee. I have also increased the number of images that rotate on the homepage. So if you have any images that you think are suitable, upload them and let me know which ones. If you do upload to FB, please also upload a selection to the website as these are visible to public viewers. I know it takes longer and I am looking into what can be done to improve uploading. I have also created a new tab on the right had side panel on the home page called “My Trips”. Clicking on this will show you all trips you have run/are running and you will now be able to approve people when they register on your trip. You are also able to print out a list of attendees and their details. Lastly, if anyone has any technical issues or ideas for the website, please let me know and I will see if I can help out. Cheers

Troy 10

N.S.W & A.C.T 4wd Association Quarterly Meeting Minutes 21/11/15 Sydney Meeting Opened: 9:15am Guest Speakers: Committee Present: President Craig Thomas, Vice President Lands Shane McClymont, Vice President Insurance/ Membership Ron Owen, Treasurer Tony Ellery, Secretary Elias Whebe, Web Master Dom Fitzgibbon, Rob Kelly Project Manager Bush Highways Nigel Ward Track Classification Regional Chairs: Lee Dunstan Southern Region, Jim Skinner Sydney Region Together with delegates as per attendance record 23 Clubs 17 Proxy Votes Apologies: Nil Previous Minutes: Nominated to be true and correct: Accepted: Jacqui Kelly Port Hunter Seconded: Nigel Ward Sydney District Business Arising: Nil Secretaries Report: Inward Mail: Crown Accounting (x3), Affiliation Fees payments from 5 clubs, Bank Statements (x2), D.T.U. expenses claim, Invite Worrimi Conservation Lands (official Launch), Office of Environment and Harritage (x4) Quotes for toilets at The Glen (x2). Outgoing: Via email. Presidents Report: - Craig spoke about the 3 year term of the current committee members coming to the end of their time. The current committee have a lot of projects underway that are still in major stages of development and the current committee would like to continue in their roles for a further 12 months to continue working on those projects. The dynamics of the Association is changing. We are seen as responsible 4wdrivers who want to look after and improve the areas we use and the areas we want to use in the future. - Adventure Show: very successful with contacts with Ministers, National Parks and State Forests further enhanced. We are still making money out of the show. (Spent around $6000 on volunteers and made around $15,000 back in profit. (See Treasurers report for exact details.) - Land Mangers at Mt Airlie are supporting 4wd Clubs in their maintenance working bees. - Craig to attend a meeting with Mudgee Council in December to discuss working together in that region.

Other regions working well on their own projects. The Association to help and support those regions when necessary. Regions only need to ask when they need something. ACMC successfully got the legislation on bull bars changed. Are always working on legislation on VSI50(suspension), head lights and light bars etc,etc. National 4wd Association: next meeting in the A.C.T. region. Working on all Australian States recognising the registration requirements of other states Australia Wide. Craig spoke about workshop meetings and how well they work for the National 4wd Association and suggested implementing workshop meetings into our Association meetings. Discussion held. Jan Scott (South Coast 4wd Club) asked how the information transfer would work between clubs and the Association for workshop meetings to be successful. Jackie Kelly (Port Hunter 4wd Club) expressed the problems she sees with workshop meeting when voting on issues needs to take place. Craig spoke about the problem with the constitution with the Public Officer needing to reside in the A.C.T. Discussion was held. ACT clubs in attendance said they could help overcome the problem. Craig thanked the committee for the past three years. Craig outlined the nomination process for committee members. Full report posted on the Association Web Page.

Vice President Lands Report: - Government Departments and Land Managers working together with the Association members on more and more projects. The Adventure show further enhances those contacts and offers the Association exposure to those Government Departments and Land Managers. - Regions all working on projects in their areas. - Track Classification: - Meetings with NPWS senior staff in Head Office with the aim of getting a project started. The result of this meeting has seen a pilot project to Classify Abercrombie National Park to see if our classification works with their Fire Department classification scheme. - Lithgow area classification still on the boil after the pilot project is completed. - Bruce Close (Central Coast 4wd Club) questioned the cost of signage on classified tracks. - Roger Pollet (Sydney District 4wd Club) spoke about a business plan for the tourist trails around the Newnes Plateau, Lithgow area outlining points of interest. (4 major trails/areas) - Full report posted on the Association Web Page. Vice President Insurance and Membership Report: Membership: - 4 requests of interest for the establishment of new clubs. - Currently 64 Affiliated members. - Concentrating on Clubs based on the far north Coast and New England areas with promotion of the Bush Highways project a major focus. - Full report posted on the Association Web Page. Insurance Report: - Ron posted a link that outlines coverage on both liability insurance (Club Insurance) and policies that cover specific items (Risk insurance-individual) Treasurers Report: - 1st July-30th September Quarterly report. Balance $37,375.76. Investment Account $107,169.23. Total funds $144,544.99. Approx $13,000 growth in comparison to same time last year. - Expenses: D.T.U. $610.52 Bush Highways video $2,200, Radio Show High Tide $2640, Phones and internet (2years) $397.52

Income: Affiliation fees (42 Clubs) $39273, D.T.U. $270, Interest $375, Insurance rebates $ 950. - 19 clubs have affiliation fees outstanding. Total of 64 clubs renewed. - Question from Bruce Close (Central Coast 4wd Club) re kilometre distance to meeting place and process of re-imbursement. Full report posted on the Association Web Page. Communications Report: - Web site upgraded through Future I.T. Some changes include easier access for uploading information. Had a budget of $2000 for the upgrade. - Dom gave a break down on the visitation to the Association Web page over the last 6 months. He can see who is accessing the page and how often. Sadly the participation on the page is very minimal. Only a small handful of people actually log on and it’s the same few people all the time. Many members have not accessed the web page in over 2 years. Therefore find it very difficult to accept criticism in communication when members don’t use their own Web Page that is there for clubs communication and information transfer. - The Web page is your tool for communication so please use it. Project Manager Report: - Rob spoke about Hunter Main Trail maintenance. - Persuade Government to open trails for the economic benefit of towns. Bush routes from VIC-QLD along Great Dividing Range. - Outlined the process in identifying towns and tracks and the information required to be gathered for the Bush Highways project. - 19 Clubs currently on board to take part and assist in the gathering of information for the Bush Highways. (Contact Rob Kelly if your club wants to be involved.) - Power Point presentation was shown to the members and questions posed about the Bush Highways. - Full report posted on the Association Web Page. Driver Training Unit Report: - George Cottee resigning as secretary of the D.T.U. - 1060 people in total have completed driver training through the Association. Get About training services proposed to take over secretary’s role and process the paper work and certificates and legal requirements for records keeping. - Association to retain its R.T.O status. - George Cottee was presented with a thank you gift. Track Classification Report: - See above in Vice President Lands report. National Meeting: - N/A ACMC Report: - N/A Adventure Show Report: - N/A Regional Reports: Greater Sydney Regional Council: (Jim Skinner) - Meeting have been well attended. National Parks meeting progressing all the time. - Feedback on the Adventure Show has been extremely positive. Kids area a huge success. Jim thanked the volunteers from the show. - Full report posted on the Association Web Page.

Hunter Region: (Roger Sheath) - Work continuing on Slippery Rock track. Open to clubs only. - Camp Quality weekend unsuccessful due to continual bad weather . - Refurbishment of the trailer completed. Full report posted on the Association Web Page. Western Region: (Rob Knight) - Absent Southern Regional Council: (Lee Dunstan) - All clubs in the region have held their AGM. - Next meeting 26th November - Working on M.O.U with National Parks. The draft plan has been circulated through National Parks for review. Completion in 2016. - Bowmans House working Bee Easter 2016. - Deua National Park meeting held in Narooma. Lee has contacted A.C.T clubs asking for their assistance in Deua working bees. There is potential for a locked off, Club only area in Bendethra for associated clubs. - Lee attended a meeting at Oberon with Jules Bros re The Glen. Association to have our own padlocks on the gates and control over the booking system. Some conditions apply eg min/max number of vehicles, code of conduct etc. - Jules has received $10,000 grant funding money for The Glen allocated to improving safety on the property. - Western side of Abercrombie and Nudgie State Park needs some attention. Jules has asked clubs if they are interested in assisting in these areas. Full report posted on the Association Web Page. General Business: - Darren Wilgress (Crossed Up 4wd Club) chair of the Adventure Show Sub Committee meeting mentioned the monthly meetings to resume in March (2nd Monday of the month). - Craig Thomas (Triple Diamond 4wd Club) Christmas Tree Delivery on 5 th December in Sydney area. Need to get volunteers to help distribute the trees. - Heidi Ploeg (Sydney Jeep Club) Moved a motion to support delivering trees for Oxfam. Seconded: Bruce Close (Central Coast 4wd Club) All in favour, nil against, nil abstained, motion carried. - Stockton Beach plan of management released. Interactive camping. (Can be changed as circumstances require.) - Jacqui Kelly (Port Hunter 4wd Club) Little information coming from the National 4wd Association. We pay fees of around $12,000 and would like more communication. - Presentation to Rob Kelly for his work with the National Association - Presentation to Peter Fenwick for his initiation of the Adventure Show - Presentation to George Cottee for his work as public officer for National Association. - Update from National 4wd Association president Brian Hevey. The seven States/Territories meet 2-3 times a year to work together on common issues eg access to public land, vehicle modifications. - Canning Stock Route permit discount to Associated Club members. Permits initiated by Rob Kelly in 2006. Meeting Closed:

1:15pm

N.S.W & A.C.T 4wd Association AGM Saturday 21st November 2105 in Sydney Clubs Present:

Proxy Votes:

Quorum Achieved:

Yes

Meeting Opened: 1:15pm Previous Minutes:

Accepted: Heidi Ploeg (Sydney Jeep Club) Seconded: Ron Owen( Family 4wd Club)

Business Arising: Nil Auditors report tabled - Proposed by Treasurer Tony Ellery that the report be accepted. Seconded Mark Heydon Port Macquarie - All in favour. Motion Carried. Heidi Ploeg (Sydney Jeep Club) moved a motion that the current committee is able to be re-nominated for positions on the committee. Seconded Julie Rush (Subaru 4wd Club) Majority in favour 1 against Nil abstained - Motion carried Nominations Received: President: Craig Thomas and Ron Owen Vote to be taken. - Motion moved by Heidi Ploeg (Sydney Jeep Club) to have a closed vote Seconded Julie Rush (Subaru 4wd Club) All in favour Nil against Nil abstained - Motion Carried Votes counted by members of the National 4wd Association Result: Craig Thomas to be President Nomination Accepted Vice President Lands: Shane McClymont Nomination Accepted No nomination received for Vice President Membership/Insurance. Craig Thomas (triple Diamond 4wd Club) nominated Ron Owen from the floor. Seconded Bruce Close (Central Coast) Nomination Accepted. Secretary: Elias Whebe Nomination Accepted Treasurer: Tony Ellery Nomination Accepted 4 positions for Sub Committee Executives - 5 nominations received from: Roger Pollet / Dom Fitzgibbon / Nigel Ward / Graeme Hills / Darren Wilgress. Darren Wilgress withdrew his nomination leaving 4 nominees. All nominations accepted. Meeting Closed:

1:55pm

Ian’s Shop Hi everyone Over time I have bought a selection of items at the best price possible , trying to cater to the interests and needs of 4WD enthusiasts and Club Members. Just some of the items available include: .

. . . .

LED torches hand tools high quality disposable plates and bowls knives and forks cling wrap and foil

plus many other incidentals. To see what else I have available please email me at ianheathcote52@gmail.com. I can advise price , brand names etc and if interested I will then bring them along to our next meeting night. Alternatively you can call me on my mobile 0411 096202. Look forward to hearing from you.

Ian Heathcote

WHAT’S COMING UP AT THE MEETINGS 8�� January Meeting - Lawn Bowls at Brush Park Bowling Club, Marsden Rd and Rutledge St Dundas 12�� February Meeting - General Meeting 11�� March Meeting - Running a Trip - all you need to know from start to finish - bring your questions 8�� April Meeting - Driver Awareness Talk 13�� May Meeting - Trivia Night 10�� June Meeting - at another venue - to be advised 8�� July Meeting - General Meeting 12�� August Meeting - Awards Night Dinner/AGM

DON’T FORGET THE LUCKY MEMBERS DRAW EACH MONTH $150 UP FOR GRABS AT FEBRUARY MEETING IF YOUR NAME COMES UP AND YOU ARE IN ATTENDANCE! 16

CLUB SHOP JACKET

VEST

To order please contact Karolyn on 0459111096 or email membership@subaruclub.com.au

RUGBY TOP

MEN’S SHIRT

$65 Sizes 12-24

$95

$34

$35 (to be confirmed)

$44

LADIES SHIRT

MEN’S POLO

LADIES POLO

LADIES PINK

$44

$30

CAPS

$15 each One size fits all NOW AVAILABLE ON THE WEBSITE GO TO http://www.subaru4wdclub.com/club-shop.html 17

THE MAN FROM COXâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RIVER Trip Leaders - John Hocking

Attendees:

Trip Report - David Wellham

John & Jean Hocking - Pajero (Sons and grandson) Scott & Jane Ashhurst - Ford Territory Troy, Sandi & Kaitlin Strickland & - Subaru Forester Julie & Zoe Rush - Triton Simon, Shannon, Michael & Ben Reid - Navara Tom & Cath DeSantis - Prado

The day started with a drive to the meeting point at After morning tea we travelled south through the Govetts Leap. As usual, the view was great and a nice valley, stopping to look at a campsite, onto the dirt and over some private land. Just past Paddlesack amount of water was going over the falls. Horse property we entered the Blue Mountains Then John found a good little dirt road around the National Park. There is a lovely picnic and camping back of Blackheath to Evans Lookout. There was one area here where we had lunch and planned a future little creek crossing that would have stopped any 2WD camping weekend to this location. cars. There was a short walk to the view, which was Lunch was very relaxing and it was hard to leave but good to see again. we were heading to the local vineyard and winery for From there we drove on Shipley Plateau to Hargraves a visit. We were looking forward to this visit as John lookout for the view down into the Megalong Valley. had told us that they had wines and nipples there – I There was time to go to another lookout, Mount think he meant nibbles, as we didn’t see any of the Blackheath lookout, where they launch hang gliders other things. We enjoyed the wine tasting and and parasails into the thermals rising from the valley listening to the history of the vineyard. Some of us even purchased a few bottles to take home! below. After four lookouts we were all hungry so it was time to go down the hill on the windy road to the Megalong Valley Tea Rooms. Arriving just after our booking time of 11am we all tucked into morning tea – Joey & David had enough to eat that lunch was not required later in the day.

It was now getting late in the afternoon so we all formed back into convey and drove north back to Blackheath for our goodbyes and trip back home. Thank you John and Jean for another lovely, relaxing and informative day trip.

DRIVER AWARENESS LAKE LYELL, LIDSDALE and MT BONFIRE Trip Leaders - Brian Flood Brett Atkins Trip Report - Scott Ashhurst

Attendees: Brett Atkins – Discovery 4 Evan & Brian – Pajero Scott Ashhurst – Territory Andrew Wise – Patrol Michael Hamilton – Grand Cherokee Neil Hird – Challenger Troy Strickland – Forester (Saturday) James & Gill Wall – 80 series (Sunday) Paul & Renee Williscroft – Prado (Sunday) Steve, ARB Guest - Patrol

Met at 0800hrs at the Shell Service Station on the Great Western Highway near Lithgow, fuelled up and headed off to some dastardly tracks apparently designed by Brian and others to bring Jeeps and "lesser vehicles" to grief, with strategically placed holes, trees, logs and rocks. All vehicles had a good workout and the recovery gear was well utilised. Then onto an old quarry for lunch and to practice rocky climbs and descents and to terrorise the newbie. Some interesting techniques were witnessed with the bucking bronco method from the Pajero being the highlight.

large, free and very scenic site beside the lake. A lot of attention was given to the Territory which had damaged a few rocks along the way, many thanks to Brian, Evan, Troy and others. Before dinner Steve, a representative from Macarthur 4WD Accessories (an ARB Stockist), arrived to talk anything and everything 4WD about our vehicles. He even showed and demonstrated to us some ARB equipment as part of the Driver Awareness training weekend. A little bonus Steve also gave all participants on the trip an ARB showbag with many goodies, catalogues and brochures. A great little treat for those just new to 4WDing and also to the more experienced drivers

Had a good meal at the local pub also local cafe for Then a drive up and around Lidsdale State Forest breakfast next morning, got to be happy with including a number of crossings of the Coxs river, one "camping without cooking". long one goes for maybe 50m along the river bed. Met up with a few extras the next day (James & Gill, Campsite was at Lake Wallace near Wallerawang, a Paul & Renee) for a reccie of a new trip to Mt Bonfire.

Following track notes and a route from Brian, we followed an obscure trail up and around some steep valleys in the Hampton State Forest with some steep climbs, water crossing. The consensus was a rating of Medium with Advanced sections. Lunch was at a good spot along the river where many photos were taken and tyre pressures discussed at length and a demonstration of tyre repair given. After lunch, more challenges until we finally reached a rock ledge which caused some concern so we backtracked to an access point and headed home with plans to complete the circuit another time. A great weekend, many thanks to Brian and Brett. Thanks

Scott

WEBLINKS Something new for the magazine this edition, some links to sites that promote what we do. Do you have a favourite website link - send same to editor@subaruclub.com

4WD Club Web page: www.subaru4wdclub.com.au 4WD NSW - ACT Association: www.4WDnsw-act.asn.au 4WD Monthly: www.4WDmonthly.com.au 4WD Movies: www.4x4movies.com 4WD Online: www.4WDonline.com/4WD.html Australian National 4WD council: www.anfwdc.asn.au Camp Sites: www.youcamp.com Camp Sites: www.findacamp.com.au Camp Sites: www.campinaustralia.com.au Camp Sites: www.exploreaustralia.com.au Camp Sites: www.campsaustraliawide.com Car Sales: www.subaru Explore OZ: www.exploroz.com Forests NSW: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/forests GPSOZ: www.gpsoz.com.au National Parks: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/nationalparks Repairs and modifications: www.alldrivesubaroo.com.au Tracks: www.4x4earth.com VKS 737 Radio network: www.vks737.on.net Weather forecast: www.bom.gov.au

NO NAME TRIP Trip Leader - James Wall

Attendees:

Trip Report - James Wall

Bernadette & Chris Tiller - Subaru XV David & Joey Wellham - Subaru Forester Stephen Wells - Jeep Grand Cherokee James & Gill Wall - Landcruiser

The day started on a great note when everyone arrived at the start point on time, despite the threatening weather. After a heads up on the route for the day we headed off to Dargan Creek Reserve, just off the Bells Line of Road, to have a look at the railway dams that were used when steam trains were in use on the Western line. The road in is pretty much 2wd for most but high clearance is needed near the end of the track. None of us had been to this spot before and even in misty rain it is fantastic. Two dams can be accessed with some walking tracks that lead further down the creek. I will definitely be going back on a clear day to have another look around. We were all suitably impressed with this place. On the way out some interesting side tracks were noted for future fun. The next spot was going to be Farmers Creek Dam wall in the Newnes State Forest but it is now gated off, with access restricted. A sign of the times I suppose, as it is a reserve water supply for Lithgow. So we headed around the back of the dam to a spot overlooking the lake where the views are much better anyway. The track in is easy but interesting

with enough care needed to make it a bit of fun. Morning tea and a walk around the cliffs were in order here. We were off to Sunnyside Ridge next, with improving skies, for lunch overlooking the Wolgan Valley. Disappointing to see coal mining expansion just off Sunnyside Ridge Road, but the plus is that the first five kms or so is smooth as. Further along where it turns back into fauna and flora reserve the road is still as it should be. Steve Wells was happy to have lunch near the cliff edge, admiring the views “The Wolgan Valley was at its best from the cliffs of Sunnyside”. We did some posed shots of David and Bernadette’s cars out here, with Joey wondering how close David was prepared to reverse to get the most dramatic picture. Pretty close, we agreed. The black bitumen has snaked its way into the Wolgan Valley now, as far as the Emirates turn off. I suppose it makes the descent into the valley far easier now in wet weather and the hobby farmers will like that.

After a relaxing lunch, it was back to the Blackfellows Hand Track to exit the bush and this is where it got interesting. It has not been graded for quite a while and the mud holes were quite deep, but luckily mainly dry. It was a very interesting drive to the Wolgan Road, one that would test a first timer in an AWD vehicle. As it is, it would make a good new member drive.

It was here we ended the trip and we all set off for home as a group until the Blackheath fish and chip shop called out to Steve. He just had to stop. Last quote goes to David Wellham: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Been there dozens of times over the years but lots of new and interesting tracks driven today. So many more to explore in the future.â&#x20AC;?

We walked up to see the hand stencils at Blackfellows Hand Cave, the first time Gill and I had seen them Come along next time and see for yourself. despite driving by plenty of times. This area has now been sign posted as "Maiyingu Marragu" to emphasise the local aboriginal connection, and I think that despite cries of political correctness from some quarters, it only reinforces that it is a special place for Indigenous people and for all Australians who not only care about the bush, but who want to see it preserved.

James

Trip Leaders - Sandi Strickland

Attendees:

Ann-Marie & Travis Meade - Triton Trip Report Cath & Tom De Santis - Prado - Olivia Stevens (11) (Toyota Prado – Chris Mifsud & Kelly - Navara back seat driver) Craig Fitzpatrick – Navara David & Karen Horwitz - Patrol Geoff Adcock - Pathfinder Heidi Ploeg & Brian & Izzy Flood – Jeep Wrangler Jo & Shahni Quinn - Ford Ranger John & Jean Hocking - Patrol Julie, Michael & Zoe Rush - Triton Kevin McCormack - Triton Mark & Karolyn Honor - Navara Michael & Jean Dunstan - Challenger Richard & Rashida Stevens with Olivia, Amelia & Elysia - Prado Troy, Sandi & Kaitlin Strickland – Subaru Forester Bernadette & Chris Tiller - Subaru XV Tony McManus - Subaru Forester

CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY

This year, the Subaru Club went to Myall River Camp at Hawks Nest for the Christmas camp over the weekend of 5�� and 6�� December. My family only went for the overnight camp, but some lucky folks arrived a day earlier (or stayed a day extra) and made the most of the warm summer weather and the cool lake water.

Question: It would have been funny to see mommy doing what last night? Their answer: A fart (correct answer – kissing Santa Clause) Question: Why do I want my two front teeth for Christmas? Their answer: So you can eat all the candy (correct answer – so I could wish you a Merry Christmas)

It took my family about 3 hours to reach Myall River camp site and the long trip was worth the wait. When we got there, I helped my father, Richard, unload the trailer and set up our tents. Then we all walked over to the river and had a quick dip. Other club campers were already in the water. The kids had fun on inflatable toys. Brian picked me up and dunked me in because I was keeping too dry!

As you can see, their answers were very entertaining! These young campers put in a great effort, and so I have included a full copy of the questions and their group’s answers below. Between trivia rounds, Izzy was having a great time so she stood up and sang songs to us. They sounded wonderful -thanks Izzy. We finished our trivia and announced the winners – the “Santa’s little helpers” group won with an The water was nice and not too cold but it was getting late impressive score of 20 out of 22. so we went back and got dried. We chatted with other club members while getting food out for afternoon tea – my dad Dinner followed trivia. The table was set with food brought says this is Fivesies time. There was a big variety of chips and for sharing. For dinner there were prawns, spit roast beef, cracker dips. I had helped my parents make Christmas potato salad, bread rolls, roast chicken, pasta salad, etc – truffles, and these were very popular. The adults had lots of delicious stuff. It was a great dinner for camping, but cocktails but the kids were not allowed to try this drink. We could it beat dessert? stayed sober and had fruit juice instead. After that delicious dinner, we settled down to a fabulous As the group got merry, we heard bells jingling. Izzy was dessert of many treats. My family had also brought a caramel dressed as a cute little elf accompanying “Santa”. Santa was mud cake for everyone to share to celebrate my dad’s 40�� holding big sack, and gave out candy canes and presents to birthday, which was a few days before. all the children. My sister, Elysia, got some bubble mix, and got very busy blowing bubbles everywhere. I really enjoyed this year’s Christmas camp and hope next years will be just as good. I like going camping with the club When everyone settled down we played two rounds of trivia. and I hope it happens again soon. Thank you to Mrs We had to get into groups. My sisters, Elysia (3) and Amelia Strickland for organising this year’s Christmas camp. (8) formed a group with Izzy (5). Together, they put in a fantastic effort to answer the questions. Here are some of their answers from the first round:

Olivia Stevens

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA Round 1 trivia questions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

How many times does Santa check his list? It would have been funny to see mommy doing what last night? One foggy Christmas Eve Santa came to say what… Good tidings to you and all of your what? Why do I want my two front teeth for Christmas? What did frosty the snow man do when they placed the magic hat on his head? On the eleventh day of Christmas, what did my true love say to me? The name of scrooge’s deceased business partner in Charles Dickens, a Christmas carol was? How many gifts would you receive if you received all of the gifts in the song “the twelve days of Christmas”? In the traditional song “go tell it on the mountain” what are you suppose to go tell on the mountain?

LOSTOCK DAM XMAS NEW YEAR BREAK Trip Leader/Trip Report - Craig Fitzpatrick Attendees: Tracey Fitzpatrick, Josh & Rebecca Foreman with Bella - Kia Sportage Craig Fitzpatrick with Queenie - Navara James & Gillian Wall - Landcruiser 80 series Geoff Adcock - Pathfinder Michael Rush - Triton Ann-Marie & Travis Meade with Sam & Elvis Triton

Kevin McCormack - Triton Bernadette, Chris and Jessica Tiller Subaru XV Julie & Zoe Rush with Coco - Volvo Mark & Karolyn Honor - Navara Visitors: Michael Foreman & Siobhan Rath - Jimny Joshua Cocks - Hilux

I arrived on Thursday, Christmas Eve along with Geoff at around 10 am. We found a good spot with shade and both set up camp and sat around all afternoon, just relaxing - we had the place to ourselves. Christmas Day was another relaxing day, we were still the only ones camped at the non powered sites. Our group started to arrive on Boxing Day right through to New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve.

River Rd and back into camp. This was a good mix of tar roads, well maintained forest roads and easy 4WD/AWD tracks. The 4WD/AWD tracks would be dry weather only though. I went for a drive to locate some firewood. The caravan park had wheelbarrow loads for $20 but it ran out so I headed into East Gresford and found a bloke that sells firewood. We loaded the back of my ute to the roof for only $20 but gave him $40 for all his help - it was great burning wood and lasted for four nights. Thursday at lunch time we decided to try the hot food at the caravan park - it was very good along with the price. The hamburgers and chips went down well. It was great weather today so most headed down to the river for a swim to cool off.

The first four days the weather was a bit average with some rain and wind. On Tuesday we went for a drive along Patterson River Rd through some hilly farmland and into Chichester State Forest, out of the forest onto Allyn River Rd into open farmland then back towards East Gresford where lunch was had at the pub. We then headed back towards the campsite along Cross Keys which is a dirt road through some really nice farmland with a couple of New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve was a quiet evening around the creek crossings. camp fire although the fireworks off the dam wall On Wednesday, Tracey went for a drive to Dungog around 9ish were a hit with most (except Coco who while James, Gill, Bernadette and Jessica went on was terrified by the noise). The majority of us another drive on Patterson River Rd towards stayed up to welcome in the New Year with a few Chichester State Forest then followed Boondabilla more fireworks going off then we all headed off to Rd until Baldersleigh Rd where it became a narrow bed (we aren't stayers anymore with age catching 4WD/AWD road to Mount Allyn Rd then turned up on us). Michael F and Siobhan fished every day right to Allyn River camp site then followed Allyn in the river and caught some bass and a catfish but River Rd through Eccleston towards Allynbrook, all were a bit small to eat. turned right onto Cross Keys Rd onto Patterson

James and Gill, Bernadette, Chris and Jessica and although I did hear a few people mention it – guess Tracey and the kids all left on Friday as did I after it has become one of life’s little mysteries. miscalculating my medication and ran out of insulin (not happy). Mark, Karolyn, Ann-Marie and Travis left on the Saturday leaving only the Rush family, Kevin and Those who stayed spent the afternoon at the river Geoff to finish off the weekend. As the weather again as the weather was perfect while Mark & was closing in the Rushes decided to head off on Karolyn, who hadn’t been to the area before, went the Sunday a little before noon and just made it for a bit of a drive and lunch at the pub. Another out before the heavens opened. nice night around the campfire ended a great day. Around midnight most of us were woken to the This was a great camp, very relaxing with some anguished screams of a bloke desperately calling good weather and great friends. Now I will try and for help. There was definite terror in his screams. find a different place for next year (possibly A few of us were going to go over to see if help was Ferndale). needed but on seeing others heading over with torches decided that help was already at hand. Craig Expecting to hear sirens of some sort shortly after, we were surprised to not hear another thing and couldn’t find out any more the next day either,

FUTURE FUN - whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming up PICNIC DAY IN THE LOWER BLUE MOUNTAINS Trip Leaders - Mark Honor Date - 17 January Grading - Social More details to follow during the next few days. Come for a drive not far from Sydney and enjoy lunch together before another short drive heading home Contact Mark at mjhonor@gmail.com / 0418406118

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTRALIA Trip Leader - Jo Quinn Date - 22-26 January Grading - Social Grady's Retreat is located on the Shoalhaven River, just 20 mins west of Nowra. Given that Australia Day is on Tuesday, turn it into a 4 day weekend, come for the day, the weekend or longer. Grady's has large, grassy campsites right on the river - fishing, swimming, kayaking, bushwalks. & only 1/2 hour from Jervis Bay. The park has BBQ shelters, open fireplaces, kiosk, boat ramp, hot showers, toilets, camp kitchen, beach areas and permits small dogs. A day trip to Honeymoon Bay & Point Perpendicular is on the cards, as well as a 4WD day in Yalwal. Or sit back, relax, swim & do bugger all! Don't forget the Aussie decorations for your campsite as we participate in some Australia Day festivities on the Sunday afternoon/night. Cost $24 per adult per night & children under 15 are $14. No need to book , we have a group booking. Contact Jo on 0409 771 019 or jo.quinn1971@gmail.com

DRIVER DEVELOPMENT WEEKEND MYSTERY VENUE Trip Leaders - Brian Flood / Brett Atkins Date - 13 February Grading - Medium with optional Easy and Hard elements We promise fun and 4wding in a safe learning environment. Contact Brian on 0425270385 or Brett at bea69@bigpond.com / 0412208874

FUTURE FUN - what’s coming up WINDELLEMA WANDERING II Trip Leader - Kevin McCormack Date - 20-21 February Grading - Easy A weekend camping and Saturday will mostly be spent at a lovely river beach on the upper reaches of the Shoalhaven River where you can enjoy your favourite water-based activities or just chill out. Saturday morning we’ll head to Adrian & Coreena’s property at Windellama (South-East of Goulburn) to set up camp. Then it will be off exploring the area with Shoalhaven River as our destination. Saturday night we’ll settle around a cosy campfire back at Windellama. Still planning Sunday so further details will be available closer to the event. Flushing toilets are available but, to conserve water, not showers. (Prearranged Friday night arrivals also OK but not too late as there’s probably electric fences involved!) Contact Kevin at kevin_mccormack@iinet.net.au or 0428408568

MORE OF CHICHESTER TO EXPLORE! Trip Leaders - David and Joey Wellham Date - 27-28 February Grading - Easy An easy drive into Chichester State Forest to explore new areas. A few campsites to look at and choose from, hopefully we will find one with a swimming hole in the river. There are also some walks in the area for the energetic people in the group. More details to follow. Contact Joey on 0400522716 or David on 0407089071 Or email wellhamcorp1@icloud.com

HIGH COUNTRY HOLIDAY Trip Leader - Mark Honor Date - 25-28 March Grading - Medium

L L U

Meet down the Hume Highway late Thursday night. Gundagai could be the starting point on Friday morning. We might stay at places like, Long Plain Hut, Geehi or Tom Groggin and Davies Plain. We plan to travel light so we can cover a good area in 4 days and gives us more options for camping. Be prepared to travel back to Sydney on Monday night or take the extra day. To enjoy this trip you need to be well prepared and able to drive long days. Some are considering taking the extra day on Tuesday to allow a slower trip back to Sydney.

F IP

Contact Mark at mjhonor@gmail.com or 0418406118

PUB WITH NO BEER TREK Trip Leader - Julie Rush Date - 25-28 March Grading - Easy Heading up to the Pub with No Beer at Taylors Arm with a stop or two in between. Looking at the Bulga Plateau and Coopernook State Forest - more details to come. Contact Julie at therushes@hotmail.com or 0409307381

FUTURE FUN - whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming up EASTER AT BARRINGTON TOPS Trip Leader - Tony Nardi Date - 25-28 March Grading - Easy I've never been to the Barrington Tops but everyone tells me how good it is, so I am organising a trip to Barrington Tops State Forest for a long weekend of bush camping. According to the Forestry Commission, there is swimming, fishing and 4WDing to be done. Something for everyone. Further information to come. Contact Tony at tone2@tpg.com.au

CAVES TO CAVES Trip Leader - Bernadette Tiller Date - 2-3 April Grading - Easy Exploring the famous caves to caves trek. Save the date, more details coming soon. Meet near Mt Victoria on Saturday morning, travel through Jenolan Caves, Yerranderie and Wombeyan Caves then back up to the Hume Hwy at Mittagong. Contact Bernadette at Bernadette.tiller@boral.com.au Mobile Phone: 0401 895 626

BBS 2016 ďż˝ EPILOGUE Trip Leader - James Wall Date - 22 April- 12 May

Grading - Touring

Come with us on BBS 2016-The Epilogue and leave the rat race behind for a while. Condobolin-Willandra Nat Park- Warrawong on the Darling-Trilby Station-Hungerford-Kilcowera Station-Thargomindah-Eulo-Currawinya Nat Park-Bourke Macquarie Marshes-Gilgandra. Three spots only Contact James at jgwall@tpg.com.au

MANNING POINT Trip Leader - Mark Honor Date - 29 April - 1 May Grading - Easy Travel to Manning Point (east of Taree) on Friday evening for 2 nights camping at Manning Point Big 4. Beach driving, fishing, swimming on Saturday & Sunday morning. Picnic at the beautiful Farquar Inlet and evenings on the Manning River. 2WD access to the camp and 4WD access to Farquar Inlet and Manning River along the beach. Beach passes $35 for 1 month, camping is about $35 per night for powered site. More details later. Contact Mark at mjhonor@gmail.com Mobile Phone: 0418406118

MEMBER PROFILE JOEY WELLHAM Name – Nathan Ross Joey Wellham Children - None Area I live – Parramatta Occupation – Storeman Member since – May 2001 with family & September 2011 as Individual Current Vehicle – 1998 Subaru Forester Limited, 1989 Subaru L series Sportswagon Vehicle name – White Forester & Red One Tyres – Bridgestone 697 AT on White Forester, rally tyres on Red One Modifications – White Forester - Sump guard, front & rear replacement bars with integrated tow bar, 40mm lift kit, heavy duty rear springs, front & rear diff and transmission breathers, fan controller, snorkel, rated tow hooks on front, driving lights, cargo barrier, dual battery system, centre diff lock switch, front and rear strut tower braces, sports exhaust, CB in car radio with triple aerials, CD player, tinted windows, cargo cage Red One - Sump guard, CD player, heavy duty front and rear springs Planned Modifications – White Forester - Update front and rear suspension

Red One - None

Past Vehicles – 1990 Subaru L series Sportswagon, 1993 Subaru L series Sportswagon which belonged to a past member Dream Car – My White Forester & Subaru 2007 Tribeca or Subaru 2013 Tribeca Favorite Place to Camp – Everywhere that I have camped Favorite Track – Every dirt track Dream destination – Anywhere that is out of Sydney or really when I am driving anywhere out of my street is wonderful Tent – 3 man, 3-second Malamoo tent Committee Positions Held – Technical Officer First Club Trip – Dingo Dell New Members and Visitors Day Trip Best Club Trip – Every trip Trips you have run – Myall Lakes Camping weekend, Five Punts Day trip, Mount Royal Camping Weekend, Hunter Range Camping Weekend, Jenolan Caves Day trip What the club means to you – To go on trips out of Sydney with wonderful friends that are always willing to assist and wanting you to do your best. A club where members can choose and enjoy trips from easy to hard. A club for everyone.

Trip Gradings 1

SUBARU

Social/Scenic Sealed roads and smooth unsealed surfaces or tracks. Suitable for all types of vehicles. No previous 4WD experience necessary. Road tyres are acceptable. Suitable for all camper trailers and small caravans.

Easy Dirt trails with possible loose surfaces, potholes, corrugations, shallow mud or puddles. Moderate inclines and declines. 4WD may be required. Low range not required. Some previous 4WD experience or completion of a driver awareness course preferred but not essential. Road tyres are acceptable. Suitable for camper trailers.

Medium Un-maintained trails, moderate to steep terrain, with loose rocky and rutted surfaces. Sand, water crossings or mud may be encountered. Low range may be required with recoveries possible. Previous offroad experience necessary. Completion of driver awareness course expected. A/T tyres preferred. Suitable for high clearance, heavy duty camper trailers with off-road hitches.

Advanced Un-maintained trails, steep terrain with loose, rocky and rutted surfaces. Sand, water crossings or mud may be encountered. Low range, high clearance and A/T tyres required, with recoveries probable. Previous off-road experience and completion of a driver

These gradings are to be used as a guide only and may change due to track and weather conditions.

awareness course essential. Suitable for purpose built, high clearance, heavy duty camper trailers with brakes and off-road hitches.

Hard Expect steep terrain, large ruts, rock steps, deep water crossings, and mud for majority of trip. Low-range gearing, high clearance and under body protection required. Completion of club driver awareness course required. Participation at trip leader’s discretion. A/T tyres minimum. Rated recovery points front and rear of vehicle essential. A hand or vehicle mounted winch must be available. Expect recoveries and very slow progress. No camper trailers. Due to the inherent danger of this type of trip, children must be closely supervised.

Minimum recovery equipment: ■ A snatch strap; ■ Two rated D shackles; and ■ A UHF radio. Visitors can arrange with the trip leader to borrow a handheld UHF radio for the day.

(Please replace the batteries). All vehicles should be in good mechanical condition and have the following basic equipment: ■ Spare wheel,

GRADE 1 The New Members trip to the Southern Highlands was a gentle intro into the club.

GRADE 4 Kevin McCormack’s Forester on “that” seemingly unconquerable hill in Lidsdale State Forest. As a cut-out ascent with high walls, deep ruts and not much traction there is little to no choice for wheel placement so very few vehicles can climb it with success.

■ Jack; ■ Wheel brace ■ Basic tools; ■ Shovel; and ■ First Aid Kit. These items should be carried on all club trips.

Convoy and trip procedures

When roads are rough or dusty, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

2 3

Maintain position in convoy except in unusual circumstances.

Always wait at intersections to ensure that the vehicle behind you knows which way to go. EXCEPTION: When drivers are known to each other and radio contact has been made, directions may be given over the CB, to allow the convoy to keep moving.

When arriving at a hard section (i.e. creek crossing, steep hill, washout etc.) wait for the vehicle ahead to clear, or to be called through on the CB.

STAY IN TOUCH When on trips our club uses broadcast channel

15 UHF The alternate channel is

16 UHF

5 6

Always stay on the track – Don’t stray into the bush!

If you want to leave the convoy, tell the trip leader what you want to do. Don’t just wander off!

When using the CB, allow time between transmissions for others to call and keep transmissions short to allow for emergency transmissions.

If there is an emergency call, the trip leader should be the ONLY person to reply. If the trip leader is unable to clearly receive the message, a person will be appointed to relay the radio trafﬁc. All other transmissions MUST cease until the trip leader advises that the emergency is over. EXCEPTION: Radio silence may be broken for another emergency.

Only people nominated by the trip leader should help others through obstacles (“Too many cooks …”) 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.

tracks).

Take nothing but photos (and video), and leave nothing but foot prints (and tyre

Fund Raising - About 6 Christmas hampers tonight so come and buy your tickets.

Subaru & Recreational 4WD Club Inc General Meeting Minutes 11 December 2015

Delegate’s Report - Julie attended the quarterly meeting and association AGM. Basically the same officer holders were returned and there was good discussion about the “bush highways” campaign.

Opened: Attendance: Apologies :

8.15pm as per the attendance register Cath and Tom De Santis, Kevin McCormack, Paul and Karen Campbell Correspondence: Nil

Editor - I need your reports and articles ASAP. Next issue is an electronic version.

President’s Report - We have had a good and busy month. Thank you to Sandi and others who helped with the Christmas party weekend at Hawks Nest. I wish everyone safe travels over the holiday period and look forward to catching up in the New Year.

Information Officer - A new article is forth coming in the next magazine.

General Business . Julie advised the lucky draw computer was left at home but will advise if the winner was Treasurers Report - As tabled, closing balance of at this meeting. $7,149.90 and notes that membership income has now . There were no other items of general business stopped and all our fees and insurances are paid from so the raffle was conducted and the Sergeant these funds. Nil questions asked. at Arms read and issued fines from previous trips. Membership Secretary - No new members since the last meeting but a few inquiries. Remember you can Next full general meeting: 8pm on 12 February at order clothing items online or with Karolyn. We need this location. to look at ordering new car stickers as the remaining Meeting closed: 9.25pm ones have lost their stick. Trip Reports - Verbal reports given for the driver awareness weekend and the no name trip. All 9 upcoming trips were mentioned with a brief description. Trip Convenors are approaching members with a view to helping them run trips.

BLAST FROM THE PAST

Webmaster’s Report - Some work has been done and continuing with login, messages and trip leader access changes. Social - Big thanks to Santa for finding our Hawks Nest Christmas Party. Reminder about the January meeting being bare foot bowls from 6pm for an 8pm game. Check the web site for details. Public Relations - Subaru drive day supported by Penrith Subaru and in conjunction with the Club Picnic Day trip on the 17�� January is ready to go ahead. Another sponsorship added and web link has been secured for the club magazine. Sorry I forgot the new club business cards. Where and when was this taken? (Answer page 41)

Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT, INC ABN: 51 879 448 402 PO Box 1371, Parramatta, NSW, 2124 Phone: 1800 646 630 Secretary@4wdnow.com

October 2015 Greater Sydney Region Meeting Venue: Monday St Johns Hall, Prospect 7:30pm 26th October 2015 Subject Attendance

Apologies Minutes

Executive

Lands

Details Shane McClymont - Crossed Up 4x4 Club techfever@bigpopnd.com Brian Bird - CWF 4wd Club Club – birdylandscape@optus.com.au Matt Smith Trax - 4wd Fellowship Club – delegate@trax.org.au Barry Caudle – Sydney Jeep Club – barryc2170@hotmail.com Paul Hopfe – Jackaroo 4wd Club – phopfe@bigpond.net.au Roger Pollett – Sydney District 4x4 Club – raepollett@hotmail.com Craig Thomas – Triple Diamond Club president@4wdnow.com Karl Stone, Gary and Donna Maloney, Nigel Ward, Darren, Tony Ellery, Jim Skinner. Previous Minutes – Minutes from previous meeting not provided. Acceptance of the Sept minutes transferred to the November meeting. Meeting opened by SM 7:30pm Show has been deemed as success. Emails have been received from a number of sources on the success of the show. 15,500 people through the gates which is a small increase on last year. The Club area went well with active participation by all. Several guests arrived on the Friday including Rick Collis (HM) National Park was well received by all attendees and they enjoyed the experience Alan Henderson GM from Forests attended Clubs have had a significant increase in interest with the show. (Crossed Up has their largest ever trip weekend with 40% guests on the following weekend – 23 cars) Newness Plateau and Lithgow 4WD Tourist Trails – see attached report. CT would be taking the high level project document with him to Mudgee Council for discussion later this week. Bush Highways – Association needs to vet the club listing to ensure coverage of the initial support request as sent out last month to all club presidents. Some emails bouncing back.

Action

All

DTU

Technical General Business

Mt Airly management plan is to be discussed with NP&WS at Hartley on 14 November. Gated access is anticipated. Decision not expected until around end of Q1 2016. Meeting held at the show to cover the transition to “Getabout Tours”. 6 DTU attended. MOU is yet to be put in place with Getabout and needs to be done before year end. Association will keep RTO status to address cert 3 & 4 issues at a state level, although this to be confirmed at the AGM with a vote from DTUs who are present. Active discussion on height standards, measurements and safety is underway. Lots of work to be done here. A formal debrief meeting to the show will be held next month. AGM will be held on Nov 21 at the Liverpool Catholic club, Hoxten Park Road, Hoxten Park 0800 to 2pm. Jeep Jamboree – 319 Jeep attended – great success. Significant increase in numbers over 2012 year. Marangaroo repairs have been done by NP&WS pretty quickly – a bollard was put in place where a large fallen log barrier has been cut by campers to get access to the creek at the camp ground. Rubbish in the camp area has been collected with a few scattered piles of bottle glass remaining. RP raised query as to whether the plastic markers (blue and white, and red and while plastic tape) through Marrangaroo NP were from the Jamboree and this was rejected. The tape needs to be collected on any club tours through the park. Meeting closed 9:05pm

BLAST FROM THE PAST:

Where and when was this taken? Blue Mountains Trip 2011

ALIQUAM

PARKS WITH 4WD TRACKS / DRIVES

Kosciusko national park Track Length - 80km Camping: Yarrangobilly Village Three Mile Dam Bush camping at Ravine

LOBS HOLE RAVINE For a reviving dose of nature and breathtaking mountain views, load up the 4WD and head for Lobs Hole Ravine 4WD trail. This trail leads from Jounama to Wallace Creek lookout through the northern regions of Kosciuszko National Park. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ideal for a historic sightseeing tour or an exhilarating day out fishing, walking, mountain biking or camping off the beaten track. Take your time to explore the historic remnants of the ravine settlement dating back to 1858. You can choose from a range of beautiful bushwalks along the trail, including Jounama heritage walk, where you can discover the historic ruins that hark back to early settlement in the area.

. Suitable for vehicles with good clearance and suitable for trailers. . Check the weather before you set out as Lobs Hole Ravine 4WD trail can become boggy when it rains. . Yarrangobilly River may be impassable after heavy rain and in winter. Check water levels before attempting to cross the river. . There is limited mobile reception in this area of the park.

With easy access to the magnificent Yarrangobilly River, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idyllic paddling and swimming options in the warmer months.

Fuel and Supplies: Cabramurra has basic supplies with nothing else along the trek. Stock up at Khancoban prior to begining this tour. Contact: Khancoban (02) 6076 9373 (02) 6076 9382 Contact hours: 9am-4pm (closed 12.30pm1pm) Monday to Friday. Open daily during peak summer season and school holidays

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