2015 07 tlccv magazine

July 2015

Overland Cruisering Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Inc.

A0005442c

Inside... < Simpson

< Sandy

Desert East - west Crossing

< 2014

Wyperfeld Trailer Trip - Easter

Arnhem Land Adventure

www.tlccv.com.au

Registered by Australia Post Publication No. PP339119/00013 $5.00

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER CLUB OF AUSTRALIA (VICTORIA) INC. A0005442C ABN87301244383

J U LY CONTENTS

General Meetings: 7:30pm on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at Mulgrave Country Club Wellington Road (corner Jells Road), Wheelers Hill Melways Ref 80 H1 Geelong Meetings: 7.30pm the 1st Tuesday of each month & 2nd Tuesday each November at the Supper Room, Geelong West Town Hall, 153 Pakington St. 3218. (Mel. 451 J2) ENQUIRIES: Membership & General to: The Secretary Toyota Land Cruiser Club PO Box 363, HAWTHORN 3122

Website: http:www.tlccv.com.au MEMBERSHIP DETAILS Joining Fee: $280.00 Membership: $145.00 REINSTATEMENT OF PAST MEMBERS If a member rejoins the Club within 5 years, a joining fee is not applicable.

If a member rejoins the Club after 5 years, they are required to pay the joining fee and undertake the Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Driver Awareness course.

RECOGNISED CLUB RADIO CHANNEL: 15 UHF

2015

VOLUME 44

No.1

Club Information

1

Committee 2014-2015

2

Calendar/Coming Events

3

Over the Hill

5

News from Toyota

7

Simpson Desert East-West Crossing

11

Sandy Wyperfeld Trailer Trip

21

Geelong Social Event

25

Trading Post

25

News from ARB

26

Arnhem Land Adventure

27

Annual General Meeting

32

Yarck Bushfire Plan

36

Member Directory

36

YARCK PROPERTY Our property is a registered Land for Wildlife property and no inference is drawn in the publication that the sign or registration has any other meaning.

Life Members: Graeme Wilson, John Whitney (Dec), Don Honey, Bill Dower, Alan Winch, Barrie McCarthy, Harold Ross, Sandra Tanner, Brian Stewart, Charles Norman, Ashley (Dec) & Judith Williams, John Turbill, Garry Cooper, Jan Chivers & Ken Hildebrand Honorary Members: Ross McClure, Clive Blakely, Reece DeJong Club Auditor: Chris Rumble

Photo by Don Bryant The opinions expressed in the articles appearing in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or the Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Inc. The Editor reserves the right to delete where necessary any section of any article, which has been sent for publication in the magazine.

Acceptance of advertisements does not necessarily imply endorsement of products or associated companies or individuals by the Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Inc.

Overland Cruisering 1

COMMITTEE President Ian Ross president1@tlccv.com.au

2014 - 2015 Driver Training John MIlls: driverawareness@tlccv.com.au * Driver Training Course bookings * Awareness Course certificates

Marketing/Public Relations Coordinator Brian Tanner marketing@tlccv.com.au Emergency Response Coordinator

Vice President Laurie Miles president2@tlccv.com.au

Yarck Management Brian Stewart yarckmanage@tlccv.com.au Magazine Distribution Gordon Chessum

Raffles & Supper Gabi & Grace Azzam Karen Wade

trips@tlccv.com.au Trip Convenor Tony Middleditch * Register a Member’s trip * Assistance in trip preparation

Club Shop Graham Cahill

Technical Brett Dyson

Social Coordinator

Secretary Sandra Tanner secretary1@tlccv.com.au Assistant Secretary Ian Wells secretary2@tlccv.com.au Treasurer Alan McMeekin

technical@tlccv.com.au

Training Matt Lilley training@tlccv.com.au • Club training courses co-ordinator Special Events

Assistant Treasurer Steve de Mamiel

events@tlccv.com.au • Shows & special event co-ordinator

treasurer2@tlccv.com.au

Membership Barbara Bryant membership@tlccv.com.au * Membership renewals, name badges, contact detail changes

Committee Adam Takacs committee2@tlccv.com.au Magazine Editor Sandra Tanner:

editor1@tlccv.com.au

Advertising Sandra Tanner

advertising@tlccv.com.a u Activities Coordinator Ian Ross activities@tlccv.com.au

Librarian Wendy Wilson library@tlccv.com.au * Borrow DVDs & books * Contributions to the Library FWDV Delegate Tony Bryant Webmaster Laurie Miles

clubshop@tlccv.com.au

Sergeant-At-Arms

social@tlccv.com.au * Book for participation in social events

treasurer1@tlccv.com.au

Committee Michael Schuettke committee1@tlccv.com.au

tlccrg@tlccv.com.au

fwdvdelegate@tlccv.com.au

Visitor Greeters Carol & Greg Edmunds Cruiserkhana enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au

GEELONG BRANCH President Matt Lilley

geelong@tlccv.com.au Vice President Matt McPhee

geelong2@tlccv.com.au

Secretary Jennie Harvie Social Alison Williams

alison4913@gmail.com

webmaster@tlccv.com.au

Excursion Visits Coordinator excursions@tlccv.com.au

MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTIONS

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

TRADING POST

All articles, trip reports and other contributions are welcome for inclusion in the magazine. They must be in the hands of the Editor by the first of the month.

Please send them to: The Editor, Overland Cruisering, PO Box 1778, Geelong 3220

• Please submit articles as Word documents with no formatting.

(No fancy formats as it will only have to be removed in preparing for publication).

In particular DO NOT embed pictures in your documents • Images (photos) should be supplied as seperate JPEG files.

The higher resolution the better. As a guide images should be of 300 pixel per inch with image files around 1-5MB fine.

• If you have multiple images, please burn to a CD and post to Editor rather than trying to email numerous images.

• Articles can be posted with normal photos.

They will be scanned and returned to the author if a self-addressed envelope is provided.

• Note: if selling a vehicle in the Trading Post it is a Motor Car Trader Regulation (1988-22(4) legal requirement that a cash price, registration number or engine number are supplied.

or email: editor1@tlccv.com.au

Members’ name and membership number must accompany all articles and/or contributions.

ADVERTISING A TRIP • Note: All trips must be approved by the Trip Convenor before they can be gazetted in Overland Cruisering.

All contributions MUST BE received by the 1st of the month.

ADVERTISERS Please support those companies that advertise in our magazine. Let them know you saw their advert in Overland Cruisering.

ARE YOUR MEMBERSHIP DETAILS CURRENT? If you have recently moved, please notify Barbara Bryant – Membership Officer – and provide your new address, telephone number(s) and (if altered) your email address as soon as possible. Please also remember to remove the Club sticker if you change or sell your four-wheel drive.

2 Overland Cruisering

CALENDAR July 25th & 26th August August August August August

1st & 2nd 11th 14th – 16th 15th & 16th 22nd & 23rd

August 29th & 30th September 5th & 6th September 8th September 12th & 13th September 19th & 20th September 26th & 27th October 3rd & 4th October 13th October 17th & 18th

NEWS

COMING TRIPS Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory ‘The Cookout’ at Yarck Lock Your Hubs Mt Skene Snow Trip Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Communications / Vehicle prep at Yarck Yarck Management and DA Theory Mapping at Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Bush craft & basic camping at Yarck Yarck Management and DA Theory Trip/Meal Prep & Bush Mechanics @ Yarck

Prior to booking or setting any dates for an event, please check with the Activity Coordinator who will ensure that there are no clashes. Please email to the Activity Coordinator the proposed date, time, venue and overview of the event.

October 24th & 25th Oct 30th – Nov 3rd November 7th & 8th November 10th November 21st & 22nd November 28th & 29th December 8th

Maintenance & Construction weekend Portland Sand Dunes Melbourne Cup w/end DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory Monster Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Yarck Management

C O M I N G IEPV E N T S

TRIP PLANNNG/CAMP COOKING BUSH MECHANICS/LED LIGHTING /SOLAR PANELS OCTOBER 17th-18th AT YA R C K

Liz Mills

Brad Schaffer

Saturday 9.30am start:

PLANNING A WEEKEND OR EXTENDED OUTBACK TRIP? This two day course is designed to give tips and ideas on catering and packing plus cooking on hot coals, all to make your trip more fun.

PRIZES TO BE WON

DO YOU KNOW? Solar panels and what size do I need?

What spare parts and tools do I take on a trip?

Are LEDs good and do I need them?

What to look at on your 4WD before going away?

Sunday 10am start: Have fun using your new skills for a "Scone Cook Off" DVD for kids on Saturday evening

Numbers are limited for this weekend.

Participants must bring their own cooking pots, all ingredients plus notepad and pen

Wait List only email: training@tlccv.com.au Overland Cruisering 3

CALENDAR

INFORMATION FOR TRIP LEADERS • Trip leaders please note that under the Constitution, members may not take part in any club activities involving four-wheel driving unless they have completed the Driver Awareness

COMING TRIPS

Course (Theory & Practical) and have filled in an Indemnity Form.

• The Club Insurance Policy states that only Club Trips that are gazetted in the Club Magazine and the Club website are covered by the Club Public Liability Policy.

• All Club Trips gazetted in the Club Magazine must include a telephone number (or mobile) and/or an email address for the purpose of booking on a trip.

• Members please note that telephone calls should not be made later than 8:30 pm.

Club trips are for club members only. Non members are not afforded insurance coverage by the club and may jeopardise our coverage. If you have any queries they may be raised with our Trip Coordinator, Tony Middleditch.

Members Please Note: All guests attending TLCCV trips must take out Temporary Membership. This includes children of members 18 years of age and older. If you have any queries contact our Trip Convenor, Tony Middleditch at trips@tlccv.com.au. All applications and payments for Temporary Membership MUST be received by the Membership Officer NO LATER than 14 days prior to the trip.

Facebook: Any trips advertised on Facebook that have not been approved by the Trip Convenor will not be recognised as an official Club trip and therefore not be covered by the Club insurance.

Seasonal Road Closures: Contact Parks Victoria at http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/safety/fire,-flood-and-other-closures/seasonal-road-closures2

AUGUST Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment:

Overnight: Details:

Trip Leaders:

AUGUST Date: Meeting Place: Time:

Limit:

Standard: Equipment:

Details:

Trip Facilitator:

LOCK YOUR HUBS MT SKENE SNOW TRIP Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August, 2015 Jamieson 8:15am 20 vehicles. 18 vacant (5 positions for new members) Medium Full tanks from Mansfield (Alpine Diesel for diesels).

15 UHF Genuine all/mud terrain tyres with minimum 50% tread (road biased tyres not acceptable), recovery points front & rear, full recovery equipment, suitable cold/wet weather clothes, UHF radio, compressor & tyre gauge, shovel, emergency sleeping bag, water & food.

Jamieson Courthouse Hotel: 5777 0503 A large, exciting & family friendly weekend trip to Mt Skene to experience some of the best snow driving in Victoria.

We will be based at the Jamieson Hotel from where we will travel up to Mt Skene to drive in the snow, have some fun & then return to the pub & socialise.

New members are encouraged to come along & vehicles will be split into two groups with two trips run concurrently to ensure that the large number of vehicles run smoothly.

Simon Mustey & Sheery Salvesen: Email: simon@mustey.com Matt & Sara Lilley.

‘THE COOKOUT’ Friday 14th - Sunday 16th August, 2015 Yarck Hilton People are welcome to come up on Friday afternoon / evening & set up their gear (I’ll be there). Cooking extravanganza to start on Saturday soon after breakfast but people are welcome to start beforehand if timing is critical to their efforts, and I’ll be attempting scones - again.

All people welcome to attend (on the proviso that everyone cooks something, but no roasts please - unless it is a roast with a difference, i.e if you do it on a spit (someone has done this in the past) or if you bone & stuff it (we also had someone do a carpet bag roast once), or if it is an exotic meat (goat, roo, emu, rabbit, buffalo, camel) - you get the idea.

That depends on your appetite.

Any/all your camp cooking equipment & paraphernalia you have collected over the years OR stuff you’ve bought in anticipation of using one day (but never had the chance - or the courage - to use it). In the past we’ve had everything from camp ovens to bedouries to converted kegs, to spits, to dream pots & even cardboard ovens.

This trip was run a few years ago with great success. Due to work commitments & other stuff, it went by the wayside for a number of years, but due to popular demand, it is back. It has been designed with EVERYONE in mind to learn & share their cooking experiences, recipes, etc. that they’ve collected over the years. As winter will be upon us (& the tracks closed), & we’ll all be snuggled in our respective hidey-holes, this is about doing somein WINTER. Everyone is requested to prepare something - Saturday night has been known to be a rather large evening with a record 16 camp ovens in 2003 (so don’t eat). People are also welcome to test ‘stuff’ on Friday evening as I’ll be up there early anyway.

IMPORTANT NOTES: No camp oven roasts please. This is about challenging yourself & your gear to try something new/different (unless it is a roast with a difference).

Normal camping rules apply. Please be self sufficient (BYO everything) & take your rubbish with you.

Please make sure you have a written (typed is better) copy of whatever it is you’re cooking for the ‘trip report’ (even email is OK as we now have reception at Yarck).

Hari Maragos. Email: hari@vwm.net.au Overland Cruisering 5

CALENDAR

NOVEMBER Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader:

PORTLAND SAND DUNES - Melbourne Cup weekend Friday 30th October - Tuesday 3rd November, 2015 Swan Lake Camping area (maps supplied for participants) 9:00am start time Saturday morning from Swan Lake Camping area.

14 vehicles Medium to hard depending on sand conditions and your experience.

Full tanks from Portland.

15 UHF Standard recovery gear, snatch strap, compressor, rated recovery points & shackles.

Base camping at Swan Lake.

Drive the only legal sand dunes in Victoria. Test your skills on the many steep sand hills. Apart from a drop toilet there are no amenities at the camping area. Caravans & camper trailers are OK. No pets. Be prepared for wet & windy conditions. Sand driving for Saturday & Sunday, Monday trip to Picaninny Ponds, beach drive in SA, lunch at the Nelson Pub. Return home Tuesday. To allow time to process PDBC paperwork, your intention to join this trip needs to be in the hands of the trip leader by the end of August.

Garry Cooper: Email: gac001@bigpond.com

hastingscamping@gmail.com 6 Overland Cruisering

NEWS

F R O M I PT O Y O T A

HIGH-TORQUE DIESEL ENGINE TO P O W E R T O Y O TA P R A D O Toyota has unveiled impressive gains to performance, fuel economy and quietness with the announcement of a newly developed turbo-diesel engine for LandCruiser Prado.

The 2.8-litre Global Diesel (GD) fourcylinder engine has been developed from the ground up to provide confidenceinspiring reliability, robust operation and smooth driving, even when carrying a full load or towing.

It delivers more power and torque - up to 450Nm - while achieving substantially better fuel economy than the Prado's current 3.0-litre engine.

The new engine, set to arrive in Australia from August, will be mated to a new sixspeed automatic transmission instead of the current five-speed self-shifter. A sixspeed manual gearbox is also available.

Gearing of the transmissions is specifically designed to unleash the directinjection common-rail turbo-diesel engine's potential from just above idle, resulting in brisk acceleration at low to medium engine speeds.

Fuel economy gains of up to 13 percent have been achieved through an intensive engineering focus on low engine weight, high combustion efficiency and minimum friction.

These measures, along with the adoption of a diesel particulate filter, have resulted in lower emissions and compliance with Euro 5 emissions standards.

Engineers also adopted comprehensive measures to deliver an engine that is notably quiet and smooth, particularly at idle.

These include a chain rather than belt drive, the introduction of a counterbalance shaft, refined component design and strict vibration management.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the new 2.8-litre engine will bring even higher levels of performance and driving pleasure to Prado.

"The new Prado engine is better in every way - more power and torque, better fuel economy and reliability, and advanced smoothness and quiet operation," Mr Cramb said.

"Higher engine outputs make it easier to drive, especially with new levels of lowdown torque that promote strong traction, acceleration and pulling power when needed," he said.

"In addition, the impressively quiet and smooth engine results in a more comfortable atmosphere in the cabin."

The new engine offers stand-out torque of

450Nm with the six-speed automatic transmission, a gain of 40Nm or more than 9.7 per cent compared with the 3.0-litre engine. Peak torque for the manual version is 420Nm. In both cases, the maximum is available from low engine speeds through to 2400rpm.

Maximum power for the new engine is 130kW at 3400rpm compared with 127kW from the current 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine - a gain of almost 2.4 percent despite the smaller engine capacity of around 200cc. Fuel economy and emissions on the official combined cycle have been improved more than 10 percent with the manual gearbox to just 7.9 litres/100km*.

Consumption with the automatic version is just one-tenth of a litre higher than the manual and represents an improvement of 5.9 percent* compared with the current engine and its five-speed unit.

When driving around the city, improvements range from 10.6 percent for the auto to more than 13 per cent with the manual while the highway figures are as low as 7 litres/100km*.

The new 2755cm3 engine's electronically controlled common-rail fuel-injection system with piezo injectors supports higher outputs and improved fuel efficiency.

Designated 1GD-FTV, it has high levels of combustion efficiency due to the adoption of a water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation system, a swirl control valve on the intake manifold and a new piston shape.

Weight reduction measures, leading to low energy consumption when driving and therefore better fuel economy, include a new engine cover made from resin and reduced thickness of the cylinder head.

Fuel efficiency has also gained from efforts to produce low engine friction, starting with the adoption of a low-friction timing chain instead of a timing belt, which also helps minimise mechanical noise while idling.

Other efficiency gains come from changing the valve train to a roller rocker type, using a high-efficiency vacuum pump, and implementing measures to reduce abrasion between sliding parts. Noise suppression is a highlight with significant work was undertaken to tune the sound of the engine, as well as reducing decibels.

The shapes of the intake port, exhaust gas recirculation port and intake manifold have been specifically designed to suppress intake variations and therefore combustion noise in each cylinder.

The exhaust manifold is designed to optimise the retention capacity of the catalytic converter, helping to prevent noise that is characteristic of turbo engines.

Engineers also applied vibration management techniques to the turbocharger and improved the rigidity of its mounts.

The addition of an insulation cover to the oil pan as well as the new resin engine cover also contribute to noise reduction. *Fuel consumption and emissions vary depending on driving conditions / style, vehicle conditions and options / accessories. Source of fuel consumption data: ADR81/02

Overland Cruisering 7

NEWS

F R O M I PT O Y O T A

N E X T- G E N E R AT I O N H I L U X REDEFINES TOUGHNESS Australia's favourite ute Toyota HiLux is set to take its 'unbreakable' DNA to new heights with the world premiere of an even tougher next-generation model.

The global unveiling, staged simultaneously in Australia and Thailand, has taken the wraps off the eighth generation of a nameplate with a famed 47-year pedigree.

While the new HiLux, due in local Toyota showrooms from early October, is even tougher than its predecessor, the latest workhorse also features advanced comfort, safety and convenience - and is easier to drive than ever.

New HiLux expands the model's prowess with an even stronger frame, four powerplants (including two new high-torque turbo-diesel engines), increased towing capacity up to 3.5 tonnes and payloads of up to 1240kg.

Toyota's Australian engineers took global responsibility for developing the rugged suspension package for the local HiLux with testing at the Anglesea proving ground and over sealed roads and off-road trails in Victoria, NSW and South Australia.

The set-up - with improved off-road performance, better suppression of vibrations and improved roll stiffness - will also be used to provide superior ride and handling in the harsh conditions of South Africa, Russia and South America.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the first all-new HiLux since 2005 redefines the 'unbreakable' tag.

"The next-generation Toyota HiLux inherits the core values of quality, durability and reliability - and takes those attributes to an even higher level," Mr Cramb said.

"The introduction of an even stronger frame, new engines, greater off-road ability and car-like features ensures the 4 Overland Cruisering

next-generation HiLux combines the best features of a workhorse ute and an SUV," he said.

"A highlight is the Australian-developed suspension that delivers increased wheel articulation, improved handling and greater comfort so owners can enjoy stress-free driving, even with a full load."

HiLux's two newly developed GD-series four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel engines are notable for their low-end punch and develop substantially more torque than the current model's 3.0-litre unit.

A 2.8-litre version offers up to 450Nm of torque, a gain of 25 percent, while its 2.4litre sibling generates up to 400Nm. In each case fuel use has been reduced by around 10 percent.

Upgrades to HiLux's 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine have produced greater power, torque and fuel efficiency due to lower weight, enhanced combustion efficiency and reduced friction. The 4.0litre petrol V6 engine continues.

Improved performance and economy are supported by new six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, including an 'intelligent' manual transmission that helps eliminate shift shock by matching engine revs to the transmission speed.

HiLux will arrive in Australia with greater customer choice - 31 variants (currently 23) with 4x2 and 4x4, three cabin styles (single, extra and double) and three equipment grades (WorkMate, SR and SR5).

The expansion in HiLux variants is focused on adding more double cabs, more 4x4 variants, more diesel options and reintroducing 4x4 WorkMate.

For the first time, the HiLux range includes Hi-Rider variants - a 2WD with the ride height and heavy-duty suspension of a

What’s new....

• Four engines, including two newly developed turbo-diesels • New six-speed manual and automatic transmissions • Thicker, stronger frame and off-road protection • Locally developed rugged suspension package • Hi-Rider 2WD versions introduced • Advanced comfort, safety and convenience • 31 Hilux variants 4WD model.

The double cab HiLux revealed in Australia features 18-inch wheels on a body that is sleeker and more muscular, at 70mm longer and 20mm wider, with a slightly lower roofline. The range also includes 16 and 17-inch wheels.

Larger exterior dimensions and clever packaging have liberated more interior space front and rear and enabled designers to offer a more natural seating position.

HiLux also benefits from a larger fuel tank (80 litres), all-terrain tyres on many variants and available LED headlights and daytime running lamps.

Body rigidity has been improved with additional spot welds reinforcing HiLux's toughness and contributing to better steering response. Greater use of hightensile steel helps reduce weight while ensuring body strength.

Toyota expects the entire next-generation HiLux range to attract the maximum fivestar safety rating with stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, seven airbags, hill-start assist and emergency stop signal all standard across the range.

A reversing camera will be available across the new HiLux range - standard on all pick-up variants and available as an accessory on cab-chassis variants.

Overland Cruisering 9

TRAINING Date Aug 14/15/16

Sept 5th (1 day)

Sept 6th (1 day)

C O M I N G T R A I N IINPG O P P O R T U N I T I E S Training / Activity Topic

Location

The Cookout

Communications (Radio, Sat Phone, Spot)

Vehicle trip prep (packing & pre trip inspection)

Facilitator

Yarck

Hari Maragos

Yarck

Tony Middleditch

Yarck

Tony Middleditch

Sept 12/13

Map Reading & Navigational skills

Yarck

Paul Howden (Tracks) & Jeff Gazzard

Sept 12/13

Bush craft Basic Camping Skills

Yarck

Paul Howden (Tracks)

Chainsaw Course

Yarck

Matt Lilley

Yarck

Liz Mills / Brad Schaffer

Oct 9/11

Oct 7/18

Trip meal preparation, Cooking & Bush mechanic weekend

SHOW & TELL AUGUST SHOW AND TELL

DIFFERENTIALS EXPLAINED This presentation is about automotive differentials.

How they work and the best way to use them.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss this informative power point presentation

Liz Mills Show & Tell Co-Ordinator (Please let me know if you have any suggests or a trip you would like to show)

10 Overland Cruisering

TRIPS

S I M P S O N D E S E R T E A S T W EI P S T C R O S S I N G , M AY 2 0 1 5

Participants Harry King (Trip Leader) Alan Stewart & Lys Tildesley Marion Tapper Pete & Thea McLean Julie Maclean and Alby Littlepage

Day 1- 10 May - Broken Hill to the Dig Tree: We set off from the Broken Hill caravan park at 8:00 am on Sunday, heading north on the Silver City Highway to Tibooburra. At 50kms is the turn off to Mutawintji National Park, which is 75kms from the highway. The park is well worth a visit. It is an Aboriginal sacred site containing much rock art.

To visit the art you need to arrange for a guide, so if you have time, camp overnight in the park.

After 65kms on the highway the bitumen ends, only to return later and remain nearly all the way to the Packsaddle Roadhouse. Here there is a bar, dining room and basic dongas.

Along the way you pass the U.N.S.W Arid Zone Research Centre at Fowler's Gap. The next point of interest is the ghost town of Milparinka, 40kms south of Tibooburra. The town was once larger than Tibooburra on account of the extensive gold mining. With luck there may be someone from the historical society in the museum willing to explain the history of the town.

A short distance away is Poole's Grave, near the site where Sturt's expedition was delayed due to the weather.

The Sturt camp near Milparinka is known as Depot Glen.

This would be the best place to camp between Mutawintji and Tibooburra, unless you are willing to risk the normally dry creek beds. The landscape from the Hill to Tibooburra is beautifully undulating, with vegetation becoming more sparse as you travel further north.

Tibooburra is a great place to spend a few days, especially to explore the Sturt National Park tracks and, if you are not heading in that direction, a drive out to Cameron Corner where the three states meet.

Overland Cruisering 11

There is a replica of Sturt's boat on a pole, interesting paintings on the walls of the Family Hotel and, in the Aboriginal Land Council building, which is surrounded by a local plant garden, a well kept small museum. There is a variety of accommodation, but if you are camping and enjoy a fire you will need to go to the A.L.C campground just outside the town.

After lunch at Tibooburra we continued north for 40kms along the highway until the Orientos turnoff and headed North West until we joined the road to the Dig Tree where we camped on the Cooper Creek.

There are historical information boards here, and plenty of good spacious camping spots overlooking the Creek. The landscape is rather barren until you join the oasis of the creek.

Marion Tapper (2582)

12 Overland Cruisering

Day 2 – 11 May – Dig Tree to Coongie Lakes Departed camp at 9:00am after viewing the Dig Tree and the newly updated information boards.

The road from the Dig Tree turnoff to the Queensland border was surfaced.

However from the border through to Innamincka it was very stony and we reduced both our speed and tyre pressures in order to avoid tyre damage. After visiting Burke’s Memorial we moved on to Cullyamurra Water Hole for morning tea.

This is one of the more picturesque sites in the Innamincka area and a great alternative to camping in the Town Common.

The road from Innamincka to Coongee Lakes was generally good but corrugated in short stretches and quite sandy in parts.

Time from Innamincka to Coongee Lakes was just under 2 hours. We arrived in time

for lunch and then did the lakeside drive and had a look at the waterhole in the afternoon.

Water levels on the lake were much lower than in previous visits with the bay as you come over the first sand dune devoid of water and covered in weeds/reeds. There was however still lots of bird life around and on the lake, but numbers were much reduced compared to previous visits and included Pelicans, Shovelers, Ducks, Wedge-tailed eagles etc.

We found a good campsite beside the lake and enjoyed a spectacular reverse sunset Note: Coongie Lakes is covered by the Desert Parks Pass. No fires are allowed at Coongie Lakes Alan Stewart & Lys Tildesley (2730)

Day 3/4 – 12/13 May – Coongie Lakes to Birdsville Departed Coongie Lakes campsite at 8.30am and retraced our track from the previous day back to Innamincka to pick up the Walkers Crossing Track.

After stopping to visit both the King and Wills' Memorial sites, we continued on the Walkers Crossing Track which was a bit corrugated for the first 30km. Harry remarked on the vast improvement in signage since his last trip to the area. Most of the track was good until the last section, which was through an extensive tract of gibber necessitating a reduction in speed to prevent damage to our tyres. We then turned right onto the Outside Track of the Birdsville Track which was as smooth as a highway due to a recent grading - one of the advantages of travelling early in the season.

Upon reaching Birdsville we set up our

tent at the caravan park, others had arranged cabin accommodation. Not much later 400 people involved in the cancer fund raising event called the ´Shit Box Rally´ arrived. They and their backup crew provided a lively atmosphere to the outback town for the night. They were driving old cars that had to be purchased for under $1,000, and each car had to raise at least $4,000 before they could enter.

We all purchased tickets for the BBQ dinner at the very crowded Birdsville Hotel, where the rally participants displayed lots of dressing up and good spirits. An enjoyable night.

The next day was a rest day in Birdsville and we drove out to have a look at the Dingo Caves and the rare Waddi trees before returning to Birdsville to visit the cemetery, geothermal station, bakery (which has a couple of 2 metre tall Waddi trees outside), the information centre

(which has a small museum) and of course the Birdsville racecourse.

Dinner that night was again at the Birdsville Pub which was a lot quieter following the departure of the very colourful Shit Box Rally crowd that morning.

Pete & Thea McLean (2506) Day 5 – 14 May - Birdsville to Annandale Station Anticipating a bit of fun in the sand dunes, we departed Birdsville at 8:30am and headed out towards Big Red stopping at Little Red to drop tyre pressure to 20psi, put up sand flags and change our radio frequency to UHF 10.

We stopped at Big Red for a “play” only to find that the tracks had been virtually obliterated by the very strong winds of the previous two days which had placed large mounds of soft sand at the top of each of the western tracks up the dune.

Overland Cruisering 13

18 Overland Cruisering

Overland Cruisering 5

After the first ignominies bogging in the soft sand, all vehicles cleared the easier run, commonly referred to as the Chicken Run, but did not attempt the others as the tops were exceedingly soft and almost vertical. This did not bode well for some of the larger dunes we would have to cross on the WAA line We then continued west over the relatively easy dunes of the QAA line travelling mostly in high range 3/4 through acacia and gidgee trees and arrived at Eyre Creek at approx. 11:30 am. Before turning right towards Annandale we crossed the creek in two places to imagine what it might be like after rain. It would have been wet inside and out. Both crossings on this occasion were bone dry and characterised by pale river clay which continued its ghostly way up the swale. The track up to Annandale Station (eastern leg of the bypass track) was smooth and in good condition all the way through and past the marker for Madigan's Camp 22. There was however one section of gibber rock to disturb the flow but negotiable in high 3/4.

The camp at Annandale Ruins was clean with plenty of firewood and room for several vehicles. High winds of the day

died down in the evening. Plenty of wood had been left around the campsite by thoughtful visitors - the kind of folk you would find enjoying junkets with the TLCC. After driving up to look at the marker for Madigan's Camp 21 we returned to visit the ruins and a gentle fossick gave up many artefacts harking back to the days when the Lethbridge family lived in the homestead, including green milk bottles, blue and white porcelain shards, a smashed medicine bottle and an old teapot with a Meissen marking, unusual for enamel. We arranged the finds in a still life, photographed them before re-burying them. We located the graves of the two sons behind the house on a rise surrounded by chicken wire and marked with a plough chain and a simple wooden cross. The story is a tragic one. It is said that when the drought started to bite, the husband and a stockman went to find work only to return to the homestead later to find the wife wandering the dunes and the children dead of strychnine poisoning. It is very difficult to find accurate reports of this event and any further information would be appreciated.

The wind died down in the evening, and

we enjoyed a three course communal dinner using camp ovens including nibbles of imported and local cheeses, olives and salami followed by roast lamb and pork loin with mixed roast veggies and gravy.

For dessert we were treated to mini berry pavlovas and cream.

The luxury of our communal camp dining seemed a long way from the privations and challenges faced by early settlers like the hapless Lethbridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Annandale.

So many settlers thinking they knew better than Mr Goyder.

Julie Maclean and Alby Littlepage (882) Day 6 - 15 May - Annandale Ruins to Desert Camp 1 We left the camp intending to return to the QAA Line via the west branch of the Eyre Creek Flood Bypass Track - no luck. At the first sand dune after the Ruwolts Bore turnoff we couldn't find the track, despite Harry walking up the dune to look. The high wind of the previous days and lack of use during the off season had completely obliterated it so rather than wasting time trying to find it we decided to retrace our way back down the east branch track. No worries, as it is always different on a track at different times of day and different directions.

Back on the QAA Line we headed west then turned south to Poeppel's Corner where Queensland, the Northern Territory and South Australia meet. It was too early to camp here so we continued west on the French Line towards Knolls Track where we found a spacious clearing in a swale to camp for the night. We had travelled around 230kms. Approximately 100km of it on the good flat track as we came down from Annandale on the run down along the salt lake to Poeppelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner, however the other 130kms was over dunes which varied in height and hardness - mostly we managed in high range but I couldn't say how many sand dunes we crossed as I was too fully focused on the driving to count. Fortunately there was very little oncoming traffic.

Marion Tapper (2582)

Overland Cruisering 15

Day 7 - 16 May - Desert Camp 1 to Desert Camp 2 We departed camp slightly earlier at 8:15am in order to get a head start on a 10 vehicle "tag along" convoy, which passed us after we stopped for the night and had camped in the next swale. We neednâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have worried as their tents were still up as we drove past. We continued west along the French Line before turning south onto Knolls Track and followed that track south for 34kms to the start of the WAA Line having crossed a small salt lake which was easy to negotiate. Knolls track was in reasonable condition but corrugated in patches.

Prior to reaching the start of the WAA Line

16 Overland Cruisering

we were advised by one oncoming vehicle that the second salt lake at the beginning of the WAA Line was very boggy and extremely difficult to cross. A second oncoming vehicle advised us that he had walked it, sunk in up to his ankles, and had decided not to attempt to cross it. We decided to have a look for ourselves, and sure enough, when we walked out onto the lake our boots sank a fair way into it, however we did notice a pair of 9 inch deep tracks which appeared to have made it across. On further investigation we found that the bottom of those tracks were relatively firm and the trip leader decided to attempt a crossing using them. Having successfully made it to the other side with-

out any problems he then called the other vehicles across.

The dunes on the eastern section of the WAA Line, whilst not normally that challenging, were made more difficult by the mounds of sand blown across the top of them by the strong winds of the previous days, effectively obliterating the tracks over the top. It made it very difficult for the first vehicle up to identify which way to go as it came over the top of the dune.

After following the WAA Line 30kms, we turned south onto the Erabena Track to pck up the Rig Road down to Loan Gum which, following our visit, now has a Koala resident in it! Returning up the Rig Road iand Erabena Track we re-joined the WAA

Line and drove approximately 15kms across the dunes before finding a nice campsite for the night in a swale.

Alan Stewart & Lys Tildesley Day 8 – 17 May - Desert Camp 2 to Dalhousie Springs Departed our “swale” camp at 8:30am and continued west on the WAA Line towards the Colson Track, climbing the many sand dunes. The sand blown mounds at the top of the dunes continued to be a problem, and we managed to get stuck near the top of one of the dunes. After some discussion, a snatch was recommended and we were quickly pulled out, thanks to Alan.

After stopping for a cup of tea and to check out some small zebra finches – virtually the only animals we saw in the Simpson we again found ourselves in the same predicament on one of the larger dunes.

After a bit of discussion and digging, Harry this time did the honours with another snatch.

On this dune we met a couple coming the other way who inquired about the track we had driven over. We suggested radioing ahead as we knew there were other vehicles following behind us.

They however informed us that they did not possess a UHF radio! It’s incredible that it is not mandatory to carry a 2-way radio in an area where you could suddenly encounter oncoming vehicles in very dangerous conditions.

Our convoy represented by Harry constantly broadcast our location ahead to let others know our whereabouts.

Later in the day another one of the other vehicles needed to be snatched just short of the crest of a dune.

Whilst some of the larger dunes did require low range, we found that we could negotiate most other dunes in high range by keeping up a good momentum on the approaches to the top of the dunes.

We came across a memorial to a motor cyclist who had died as the result of an accident. Not long after we encountered four motorbike riders and a support vehicle that did not broadcast, and they gave our leader quite a surprise by just missing and spread eagling themselves on his bull bar.

After that the rest of the day was relatively quiet, except for the last section of the track which was very rough. We ended up at Dalhousie Springs for a dip in the hot springs and a pleasant camp despite the army of mozzies. Unlike prior visits there were very few people camped at Dalhousie this year Pete & Thea McLean Day 9 – 18 May - Dalhousie Springs to Algibuckina Bridge The one night at Dalhousie proved comfortable in one respect since there were so few people camping there, and the ablutions blocks were unusually fragrant. However, you couldn't say the same thing by the morning since a few vehicles rolled in later that night. By that time we had also suffered attacks from mosquitoes and sand flies that kept us

itching for a week. Scars still visible in areas not normally exposed to the light of day - be warned. No dingo sightings, which was unusual and welcome. Nothing however, would deter Marion, the only single female in our group, from sleeping in her bed roll every night with her face out to the moon and stars.

Breaking camp at the luxury hour of 9:00am, we set off for Oodnadatta and the Pink Roadhouse’s iconic burgers- with the-lot for lunch. The Pedirka track, which had been closed due to wash-outs, had only been opened the day before we arrived and was freshly graded so it was a most comfortable ride down to Oodnadatta where most of us washed the red dust out of our hair in the caravan park showers for $5 a head.

The Oodnadatta track to Algibuckina Bridge was smooth and easy at high range 4 or 5. The campsites in the immediate vicinity of the bridge are bare and unappealing. We however found a great campsite by following the farm track heading east from the bridge through a gate to the waterhole – very pleasant indeed with water views and several spots suited to a fire, although it was necessary to seek firewood further afield..

Drying out was evident in several places as a harbinger of drought or El Niño perhaps.

Julie Maclean and Alby Littlepage Day 10 – 19 May - Algibuckina Bridge to Coward Springs Leaving camp we set off down the Oodnadatta Track to the Peake Overland Telegraph Station turn off. The road in is a bit rough but the destination is well worth it. There are various walks around the heritage site and the ruins of the settlement are clearly named, making it reasonably easy to imagine what life was like.

Many of the building remains are extensive. An informative brochure is available at the gate, and at our visit there was water in the nearby well.

Back on the Track we found a memorial to John McDouall Stuart who passed through here on his way from Geraldton in W.A. After a brief stop at the Edwards Creek siding, on the old Ghan railway line, which is notable for its water filtration tanks, we had a very ordinary lunch in the William Creek pub. This pub has deteriorated noticeably in the last few years since being taken over by the current owner who also operates the scenic flights business located there.

Further along is Strangways Springs, most of which are extinct. Again a brochure at the gate provides helpful historical and geographical information and walking track maps.

On to the Beresford ruins and dam. Here the living quarters are almost intact.

After not a long day's drive, though a very interesting one, we arrived at the well appointed Coward Springs campground.

There is a small entry fee which is worth it for the facilities - showers, the best bush toilets, fireplaces and, of course, the

chance to soak in the spring. We settled down around a great fire to have a go at Lys' musical quiz and to share what would be our last night all together.

After a brief visit to Blanche Cup and The Bubbler the following morning, we all said our goodbyes as some were heading north and others south.

Marion Tapper Permits, Permissions & Restrictions • South Australian Desert Parks Pass required http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/P ark_Entry_Fees/Parks_Passes/desertparks-pass which covers you for : • Witjira National Park (Dalhousie Springs) • Simpson Desert Conservation Park & Simpson Desert Regional Reserve • Innamincka Regional Reserve (Cullyamurra Waterhole) • Coongie Lakes National Park • Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park (Halligans bay & Muloorina/Level Post Bay) • Wabma Kadarbu Mound Springs National Park (Blanche Cup & The Bubbler) • Annandale Station – Permission required from Don & Judy Rayment managers of Adria Downs Station (owned by David Brook) (adriadowns@activ8.net.au ) • Fire Restrictions – Fires not allowed in either Coongie Lakes National Park or Witjira National Park (Dalhousie Springs).

Fires are allowed in other areas of the Simpson unless fire bans are in place.

NB: Thank you to Harry King for supplying the extra information regarding Permits, Permission & Restrictions. I’m sure it will be extremely helpful for members wishing to travel these wonderful areas. Ed.

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TRIPS Trip Leaders: Laurie & Heidi Miles Convoy: Walter & Maria Denni Robert & Alison Duff Eamonn & Libby King Michael Winand & Elaine Leishman

SANDY WYPERFELD TRAILER TRIP - JUNE 2015I Zebra

200 Series TD

Ultimate XPLOR

Dingo Duffs Redgum

100 Series TD 79 Series TD 100 Series TD

Kimberley Kamper Ultimate XTRK Southern Cross Camper

Buffie

Nissan Patrol GU TD

Ultimate Enterprise 124

eading through Wyperfeld NP: With some great weather expected over the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthday weekend, it was time to test out our 4WD skills by travelling across the sandy Wyperfeld NP with our camper trailers in tow.

Most of our convoy arrived at Four Mile Beach on the edge of Lake Hindmarsh at a respectable time and set up camp. We however had the drive from hell - 7 hours of travel time leaving the eastern Melbourne suburbs at 4:15pm and arriving at 11.30 that night. Everyone seemed to be heading out of town at the same time, resulting in traffic chaos (so much for the expected 5 hours suggested by Google).

We awoke in the morning to view Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest fresh water lake to find it totally dry.

At 8:30am, during the initial trip briefing, Laurie gave us the run down as to what to expect for the day.

We headed north to the township of Rainbow, our convoy comprising of 5 vehicles towing 3 Ultimates, a Kimberley Kamper and a Southern Cross Camper.

H

Overland Cruisering 21

After a short drive we entered the Wyperfeld National Park where we lowered tyre pressures and headed off into the National Park. We were now driving on some soft sand, so we finally got to experience our 4WDing with our trusty trailers.

Our first stop was at Hermie Strausses garden for morning tea - no gardens to see, but a pleasant place to stop. We were now getting used to sand driving with our trailers, and no difficulties so far, so after lunching at Arnolds Springs, we were hoping for some adventure.

Up to this point no one seemed to be having any troubles on the sandy tracks and all our trailers seemed to cope amazingly well. Calm before the storm I think, as we rounded a corner to find our first major obstacle. We were greeted with a 4WD from another convoy stuck halfway up a dune, trailer in tow, trying to be snatched up the dune by another 4WD who seemed to be digging some major holes in the process!

Our leaders, Laurie and Heidi had the first go trying out their new 200 Series, and after a couple attempts and a great display of backing prowess they hit the top. Libby decided to jump out with shovel in hand, and walk up the dune to fill in some of the large holes created by the previous convoy.

We were next and Libby must have filled in all the holes as we went straight up. The lone Nissan in our party had a couple of goes, but even with lowered tyre pressures, still had some problems. Laurie decided the left hand (chicken) track might be a bit easier, so everyone finally made it to the top.

Looking back we counted 15 vehicles lining up behind us. I would have hated to know what they were thinking about the convoy of 5 trailers in front of them!

Our next major dune had a 90 degree right hand bend at the start so our approach was a bit tricky, but amazingly we all made it without a hitch.

From here the dunes seemed to get a bit smaller and didn’t cause us too much trouble. With the sun setting soon, we decided to stop around 3:30 and set up camp, erect our campers and have a bit of a van inspection. Many hands make light work, so a large collection of firewood was collected. In no time, we had a fire roaring.

Happy hour soon commenced with everyone reminiscing about the day’s events and previous travels with our 4WD trailers.

Robert & Alison Duff (2620) Heading for the Big Desert SF: After a nice calm night we were on the move around 9:00am with clear blue skies and a warming winter sun made for a great start.

The night was spent at Pigeon Springs, (no pigeons were seen), just a few other campers nearby. Back onto the sandy tracks, it was a little bumpy in some places, but overall easy driving compared to yesterday, as the dunes were not as steep. We passed through Banksias in the National Park, Springtime flowers would be a great time to return.

22 Overland Cruisering

We were now leaving the NP, so we turned right onto Murrayville Track and headed north to Big Billy. Although it appeared to be a 2WD track, we were limited to 40kph.

As we headed further north, we were now passing through Big Desert State Park.

Turning right onto Delisio Track we passed Mt Ida – the sandy track to the top appeared to have tested other four wheel drivers in the past, but with trailers in tow we moved on. After a left turn on to Big Dune track, we headed further north to Sand Bucket for morning tea. After a short stop in the warm sun, we proceeded through Sand Bucket and open fields, passing bee hives on White Springs track.

We were now in the north east section of the State Forest and heading to Ross

springs for lunch. There were some other camper trailers set up as a base camp however they must have been off enjoying the surrounding areas.

After lunch we were entertained by Robert unhitching the XTRK and having some fun on the Ross Springs sand dune. The dune was deceiving, and not as easy to drive as it looked - lots of speed and heaps of noise and Duffs finally made it to the top. The sand pit around the dune was soft, loose sand so it made it more of a challenge for Robert.

Leaving Ross springs we headed onto Firebreak track which looks just like a fire break. We passed the southern edge of some farms where we saw heaps of roos in the paddock.

We soon turned onto Cowangie-Nhill track which was narrow for 500m or so.

Sometimes it’s best to have the widest car leading the group - the growth at least was soft on the duco, not that it sounds like it from inside the car.

We now turned left onto John Bores track which became wider again heading to Lone Pine flat where we set up camp just after 3:00pm.

With plenty of firewood around, we all collected a good supply. Happy hour soon got underway with drinks around the fire to keep us nice and warm.

It is great to go on a camper trailer trip to see how our trailers handle being towed through the tracks - we learnt lots of tips from some of the more experienced campers.

Michael Winand & Elaine Leishman (2553) Heading back to the Sandy Wyperfeld: We woke to a clear crisp morning after an overnight of 2.9C. The sun was shining so it was going to be another lovely day even though it was the last day of the trip.

Duffs were well ahead of time with the packing up, when they noticed that their truck had a tyre that was flat on the bottom, so a quick change was in order.

Many hands make light work, and soon the convoy had the tyre replaced.

However, we were now running 30 minutes behind schedule, so it was time to

4 Overland Cruisering

Morning tea was at Broken Bucket where the water tank was overflowing. We all enjoyed standing around in the sun chatting and reminiscing about our fabulous weekend with our trailers.

Moving on again, we turned east onto Netting Fence track. As the name suggests, this track followed the fence line east for at least 40kms and gave us different track surfaces from sand to some mud and back to sand again.

After passing through desert foliage and then into farmland, we headed back towards Lake Hindmarsh. After what felt like ages, we hit the blacktop and turned left towards Rainbow.

Zebra took us to an area called “The Wattles” where we aired up vehicles and trailers. Lunch was also eaten here. After a great weekend we all said our goodbyes as we headed back to Melbourne via the Western or Calder Highways.

A big thanks to Laurie and Heidi for a great trip that showed us what a hidden gem we have in the Big Desert and Wyperfeld Parks.

Eamonn & Libby King (105) move south quickly.

Our convoy headed out from the Lone Pine area and retraced our steps along Johns bore track before turning onto Cowangie & White Springs tracks.

Zebra had to have a quick stop as the car computer was saying they had an open door. Ah, don’t you love the new 200 Series with many bells and whistles to let you know what is happening under the bonnet! All solved so away we went.

There didn’t appear to be a lot of wildlife around over the weekend, but we certainly heard birds in the distance.

Back onto the Murrayville track now and heading south, you could be forgiven for thinking you were on a country road as it was two vehicles wide and basically straight, however still only 40kph permitted. It was along this track that we met two groups of vehicles – the only vehicles while still in the park.

Overland Cruisering 23

24 Overland Cruisering

GEELONG SOCIAL

I PN E E D E S T A T E MT DU e had a group of twenty attend for Saturday lunch in The Barrel Hall.

During winter months, we decided we’d choose somewhere warm and cosy, BBQs and picnics are great, but only if the weather is kind.

The café is set amongst the oak barrels and wine tanks. A great family atmosphere, with the biggest chalk board you’ve ever seen running the length of the back wall. If you are a member, you can receive 10% off meals and wine orders, so we all hurriedly filled in our forms before ordering.

The menu has a little bit of everything; pizzas, sliders, a great kids menu and the shared platters were a standout. Only a few had room for dessert, and everyone left happy.

A terrific place for a group and we’ll be back, perhaps next time on a Sunday when they have music.

Why not join us for our next Social outing on Sunday 26th July at “One Day Estate” at 12:00 noon, only 10 minutes east of Geelong on the Portarlington Road.

Everyone is welcome, and it’s always fun.

Just email me.

Alison Williams (2651) GEELONG BRANCH SOCIAL COORDINATOR

W

TRADING POST FOR SALE: • Taipan XP Fuel Enhancer (Performance chip) to suit Toyota Prado 120/150 or HiLux fitted with D4D diesel engine.

Approx. 4 years old. New cost $1,500, will sell for $250.

• 2 King springs suitable for rear of Toyota Prado 120/150 GX, GXL and VX (excluding KDSS) with raised suspension. KTRR102. These springs have done only 2,000km of easy driving. $90.

• Prado 120 – front left shock assembly, front right shock assembly, 2 front springs, 2 rear springs, 2 rear shock absorbers. These components have done about 25,000km before being removed to fit after-market raised suspension. Genuine Toyota parts, good condition. $250.00 • LandCruiser 200 shock absorber assembly front left, shock absorber assembly front right, 2 front springs, 2

rear springs, 2 rear shock absorbers.

These genuine Toyota components have done a mere 70km before being replaced by after-market raised springs and shockers. If purchased from a Toyota dealer, these components would cost in excess of $1,800, will sell for $400.

• LandCruiser 200 pair of original Toyota side steps – as new, $250.00.

Contact: Robert Fairweather (2262) Mobile: 0402 816 908

TOYOTA PASSES ON LUXURY CAR TAX SAVINGS TO CONSUMERS Toyota Australia has moved to pass on benefits to its customers by reducing the recommended retail prices of four of its models affected by the new threshold for the Luxury Car Tax. The LCT threshold increased by $1300 on July 1 to $63,184 affecting four Toyota models - Kluger Grande, Prado VX and Kakadu, LandCruiser 200 and Tarago Ultima.

Toyota has adjusted the price of 15 variants within the four models, passing a saving to the customer of $390 for all but one of the vehicles. The exception - the 2WD Toyota Kluger Grande, which now falls below the Luxury Car Tax threshold has been reduced by $377.

The new pricing structure is effective from July 1, concurrent with the LCT threshold increase.

4 Overland Cruisering

PRICE CHANGES, EFFECTIVE JULY 1*

Model Kluger

Grade

2WD Grande Auto AWD Grande Auto Prado VX Auto Petrol Kakadu Auto Petrol VX Auto Turbo Diesel Kakadu Auto Turbo Diesel Altitude Special Edition LC 200 GXL Auto Petrol VX Auto Petrol Sahara Auto Petrol GX Auto Turbo Diesel GXL Auto Turbo Diesel VX Auto Turbo Diesel Sahara Auto Turbo Diesel Tarago Ultima Auto V6

New Price $63,142 $67,130 $72,600 $83,100 $73,600 $84,100 $65,600 $80,600 $90,600 $110,600 $73,600 $83,600 $93,600 $113,600 $67,600

Reduction $377 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390 $390

Overland Cruisering 25

PRODUCTS

ARB REMOTE FRIDGE MONITOR ARB Corporation Ltd, is pleased to announce the latest addition to their growing camping and touring range.

After years of extensive research and design, the ARB Remote Fridge Monitor is set to be the next favourite camping accessory for every 4WD adventure.

There’s nothing worse than arriving at your campsite after a hard day’s 4wding, only to discover the drinks you put in your fridge freezer are warm. It’s every camper’s worst nightmare. Fear this no more with the release of the ARB Remote Fridge Monitor.

This monitor allows you to keep track of the temperature of your ARB Fridge Freezer from the comfort of the drivers seat Utilising clever wireless transmitting technology, the ARB remote fridge monitor displays operating conditions such as internal fridge temperature, supply voltage and compressor status of your ARB Fridge Freezer on a conveniently located backlit display for the driver to monitor whilst in

26 Overland Cruisering

transit. Like all of ARB’s innovative products, this monitor was developed by 4WDers, for 4WDers.

The monitor contains advanced wireless transmission technology, providing 30m (100ft) line of sight or 15m (50ft) of interrupted transmission range. This ensures that wherever your off road journey takes you to, you can still keep an eye on the temperature of your fridge freezer and you won’t encounter any unpleasant surprises. If you’re like most of ARB customers who carry two ARB Fridge Freezers (with the hope of one of them being filled with the catch of the day), the ARB fridge monitor can display up to two fridges with the addition of a second transmitter. Another innovative feature is the ability to change the transmission frequency so that you do not inadvertently monitor another

fridge in your convoy.

Once you’re setup at camp, simply remove your ARB Remote Fridge Monitor from its quick release holder, plug in the power supply via your portable power pack, and sit back and monitor your fridge from the comfort of your camp chair, tent or caravan. www.arb.com.au

Overland Cruisering 27

TRIPS July 2014 Private Trip: Laurie & Heidi Miles

A R N H E M L A N D IA D V E N T U R E

Zebra

Lorella Springs awaits in NT: With our new Ultimate Trailer in tow, it was time to head outback and experience our 4WDing with a little more comfort â&#x20AC;&#x201C; well so we thought!

With very chilly weather in Melbourne in late June, we headed west with grey skies, plenty of rain falling and a gusty wind blowing. It would be a good first night test for our new Ultimate as we pulled up at Poocher Flat just across the border into SA. With signs that it was boggy, we cautiously erected our camper trailer. The addition of a gas heater in the trailer meant that dinner was enjoyed in comfort.

With the weather continuing overcast, it was time to make some kms north, so we headed the back way up to Hawker, then onto Farina for a lovely nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s camp. We finally made it onto the Oodnadatta Track the next morning. With sunny skies and a cool breeze in Marree, we ventured along the Oodnadatta track, making good progress at 100kmh. The track was in good condition, but some road works north of William Creek slowed us down. After the 600km journey it was time to hit the bitumen again at Marla, and head north to Alice.

80 Series TD

Ultimate XPLOR

Club members Monica & Phil Coleman alerted us to a nice quiet campground about 10kms to the west of Alice called Wanngardi Caravan Park. It is a nice quiet rural setting and much cheaper than the middle of Alice.

It was at this point that we started having issues with our trailer fridge. Lights were flashing, but we did not know why. We also noticed that our camper was badly stone chipped. Ultimate assured us that rock tamers were not required, but considering the damage from the Oodnadatta Track it was time to fit some.

Overland Cruisering 27

We spent a whole day fitting them, and so it was time to head further north to meet up with Laurie’s sister at Lorella Springs.

This was a 2 day trip, heading 500kms north to Tennant Creek, then turning east for 200kms onto the Barkly Hwy, then north again on the Tablelands Hwy for an overnight stop in the outback. More flashing lights on the fridge were concerning us, but we ventured a further 300kms north to Cape Crawford.

Arriving at Lorella Springs: The bitumen road had finally left u, as we made our way another 130kms north through the Limmen NP to Lorella Springs. Being 15 degrees south of the equator meant that the nights were now quite mild and the days warming up. It was refreshing to see

the thermal springs at Lorella Springs, and also to meet up with Laurie’s sister and brother-in-law and their friends.

We thought our trip was coming to an end, as the fridge flashing red lights continued.

Laurie did some more exploring. He also rang Ultimate via Sat Phone to find out what the flashing red lights meant. Low battery was the feedback, but the battery was showing full, especially after a day of charging the battery via our solar panels.

That night, Laurie returned to the trailer to find no power with the fridge. Was our trip coming to an abrupt end? Laurie, with torch in hand, ventured out in the dark to inspect the fridge wiring. He fiddled with one wire and sparks started flying. On closer examination, Laurie found that not one, but 4 wires were all loose. In the tight compact fuse box cupboard, Laurie managed to successfully tighten all nuts with a very small shifter, with one of the nuts almost falling off into his hands as he started to tighten. Success – no more flashing lights.

Hooray, our trip was now continuing. So next day we ventured further north in the Limmen NP to view the Southern Lost City.

The Lost city is an amazing array of rock towers that were created 1.4 billion years ago. They consist of 95% silica, and are held together mainly with iron. This makes them very red in colour and quite spectacular to view.

We were now fast approaching Arnhem

28 Overland Cruisering

Land as we pulled up on the banks of the Roper River. This was a very scenic spot, so Heidi and Laurie relaxed in the afternoon sun on the banks of the river, while the rest of the crew headed across the river into Arnhem Land and visited the aboriginal town of Ngukurr.

Time to head into Arnhem Land: To travel further into Arnhem Land, we needed to head west to Mataranka, then a further 60kms NW to the start of the Great Arnhem Road. We were finally heading into Arnhem Land proper, thus we were carrying all our necessary important travel permits.

The first 50kms to Beswick was bitumen.

Even mobile phones worked out here. But as we now moved back on to dirt tracks, we soon lost our phone comms, and were now heading into Arnhem Land. We passed through many small aboriginal towns. The locals usually kept to themselves, but would talk to us if we approached them. In fact, they enjoyed the chat.

The 700km 4WD road to Nhulunbuy was dusty and corrugated.

The major obstacle along the Great Arnhem Road is the crossing of the Goyder River. This occurs soon after the turn off to Ramingining. Permits to Arnhem Land are not issued until it is low enough to cross. Our journey across was uneventful, although we were warned of a large rock in the river if you drove straight across. There were signs to direct you to the correct path across. After all making it across, we stopped for a bite of lunch.

However, we were interupted by a workman crossing the river looking for a place called Gorpulyul. He had no map or sat phone. He was sent out to fix a pay phone by his company. He had driven from Darwin that morning. Laurie dragged out his maps and found that he had missed the turnoff about 150kms back along the Great Arnhem Road. Laurie lent him his sat phone so he could ring the office to advise them of his delay.

Note: Since our trip in 2014, the Goyder River now has a road bridge, so no more delays in wet weather travel.

Nhulunbuy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NE Arnhem Land: After a night camp along the Arnhem Road, we finally made it to Nhulunbuy. The major employer in town had just shut down, so

4 Overland Cruisering

many people were now unemployed.

Laurie met up with his 2nd cousin (who he had never met before). Rick worked in the mine until it closed, and was now running outback tours to aboriginal settlements in Arnhem Land. Rick offered to take all of us to a secluded aboriginal location called Bawaka.

Bat bites Heidi: Whilst we were all thinking about the Bawaka trip, Heidi decided to head out of town to explore the local area on her MTB. Laurie soon received a phone call. Heidi asked him to Google bat bites. Laurie soon found out that Heidi tried to help a bat that was caught up in a barbed wire fence. She managed to get the bat out of the fence, but as she lay the bat on the ground, one of its paws grabbed onto Heidiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shirt. As she tried to remove the paw, the bat bit her finger in two places.

A quick Google search raised serious concerns. Rabies and Lyssa virus were the main issues. Laurie rang the Nhulunbuy hospital and they told him to get Heidi straight down to the hospital as she will need to be inoculated.

As soon as Heidi arrived at Emergency, they started injecting immunoglobulin in to 10 different locations around her body.

Heidi started to feel like a pin pricked cushion. Next the rabies injection and then a tetanus injection. If Heidi thought that this was the end of her treatment, she was sadly mistaken. She would need more jabs on days 3, 7 and 14. Luckily she could have day 7 in Darwin and day 14 in Katherine. This meant we could continue our holiday.

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Convalescing at Rainbow Cliffs: Feeling a little overwhelmed by all the jabs, Heidi and I decided to take a few days rest at Rainbow Cliffs, some 15km south east of Nhulunbuy. This is a lovely location, looking back across to Nhulunbuy.

However, being a full moon, the sand flies were in their element. Heidi woke up the next morning covered in multiple bites. We all were bitten, but because of the immunoglobulin that Heidi was injected with in Nhulunbuy, she reacted very badly.

Red spots began appearing all over her arms, legs, neck and face. The chemist recommended Phenergan. This appeared to work well, although Heidi struggled with sleeping soundly.

During this time, John and Joan headed off to spend 4 days at Bawaka. They had a fantastic time at this special location.

Looking at her photos of this visit, one can see it is truly an amazing paradise.

Heidi decided it was time to leave Arnhem Land and head for non-sand fly areas.

After a few quiet days at Litchfield NP and a quick visit to see Martin Boland (ex TLCCV member) now living in Darwin, plus a visit to Darwin hospital for day 7 jab, we headed back to Arnhem Land to meet up with the rest of our convoy.

Cobourg Peninsula awaits: With the rest of convoy camping near Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River, it was time to make the important river crossing. This crossing is notorious for salt water crocodiles. There are many stories of people being taken by crocs at this crossing, so caution is so important. The river is tidal, so crossing back into Arnhem Land needs some careful planning with tide charts.

With more great warm, sunny weather, we crossed the tidal river and stopped for a morning tea break at the Aboriginal town of Oenpelli. The art studio is a popular place to visit with many locals making an array of items for sale.

Although we would have liked to travel further east to Maningrida, our permit did allow this, and we were advised that it would be too dangerous to travel without a valid permit.

So it was now time to head further north in Arnhem Land and 4WD right up to Cobourg Peninsula (300kms from Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River). At

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13 fish for dinner.

We were now about 80kms from Smiths Point (the most northerly point of Cobourg Peninusula for this trip). Just when Heidi was starting to feel a little better, we unfortunately encountered another bout of sand flies.

Arriving at Smiths Point on the Cobourg Peninsula: Upon arrival at the camp ground at Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Point, Heidi struggled badly from the sand fly bites. In fact she did not sleep at all on the 2nd night. It was now time to get her some more medical treatment. Meanwhile, the rest of the convoy took a scenic drive around the peninsula, enjoying some great fishing.

It was going to be a long drive back to medical help in Jabiru in Kakadu NP, so Laurie and Heidi called in at the Rangerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s station before leaving. The Ranger offered to place a call to the Doctor on call, located in Darwin. 20 minutes later the Doctor called and spoke with Heidi. His knowledge of bat bites and sand fly bites was fantastic.

times the corrugations were quite bad, but we ventured on until we came to Wauk Lagoon near the Aboriginal town of Murgenella. This water course was live with Barramundi. 2 of our convoy tried some fishing without luck. All sorts of lures were tried, until finally success. After about an hour, the boys had mustered up

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He wanted to organise an injection for the sand fly bites for Heidi but it would have lowered her immunity against the bat bite, so he prescribed some antibiotics. Heidi was perplexed. She told the Doctor that we were 400kms and a 7 hour drive from Jabiru, so how does she get the antibiotics? The doctor asked to be put back to the Ranger. What we didn’t know is that the Ranger is trained in administering medical assistance. The antibiotics were kept in a locked cabinet in the Ranger’s station. We found out later that this is another arm of the Flying Doctor service.

With antibiotics in hand (at no cost), Heidi and I returned to our Smiths Point camp for a couple more days.

Whilst Heidi rested the next day, Laurie and the rest of the convoy took a guided tour by boat across to Victoria Settlement.

This was a 40 minute boat ride from the Ranger’s Station heading south in Port Essington. In the early 1900s, Victoria Settlement was seen as a possible alternative settlement on the north coast. Due to many reasons, the settlement did not work. However, there are still some old buildings to visit in this remote area and is worth visiting if ever you head that way.

With an Aboriginal meeting organised for the following Sunday, all permits were now cancelled for Cobourg Peninsula. This meant we had 24 hours to vacate. It also meant our fantastic Arnhem Land Adventure was fast coming to a close.

After another 6 hour drive back to Cahills Crossing, we stopped to take some pictures at the crossing. A Dutch tourist had just walked across the crossing and asked us about driving in Arnhem Land. We advised him that he would need a permit.

We then advised him that it was not safe to walk across the crocodile invested river at the crossing. Although there were heaps of warning signs about crocodiles, he still took the risk. After we advised him of the crocs in the water, he was very hesitant to walk back.

In summary, this is a great part of Australia to visit – hopefully you get there one day!

Laurie & Heidi Miles (1058)

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NEWS

A N N U A L G E N E R AI PL M E E T I N G NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Inc. will be held on Tuesday 21st July, 2015 at The Mulgrave Country Club, Cnr. Wellington & Jells Road, Wheelers Hill at 7:30 pm.

BUSINESS OF THE MEETING WILL BE: 1.

Confirm the Minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting.

2.

Receive the President’s report.

3.

Receive the Treasurer’s report.

4.

Receive other sub Committee reports.

5.

To elect Life Members if so nominated and/or Honorary Members.

6.

To elect Officers (4) Assistant Officers (2) and Ordinary Members (2) of the Committee.

7.

To present the Awards for the year.

8.

Any other business of which due notice has been given.

By order of the Committee.

Sandra Tanner Honorary Secretary.

AGENDA • • • • • • •

OPEN APOLOGIES LIFE / HONORARY MEMBERS AND PAST PRESIDENTS IN ATTENDANCE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS AGM HELD TUESDAY 15TH JULY, 2014.

Matters arising TREASURER’S REPORT Motion for Auditor ANNUAL REPORT – PRESIDENT. Refer magazine for all others (Executive & sub Committees) ANNUAL TLCCV AWARDS

•

• • •

VAL McGURGAN AWARD is awarded to the Club member – new or old, male or female – who achieves the most they possibly can out of the Club. This person shows great enthusiasm & support for their Club. This award is usually presented

by Frank McGurgan in memory of his wife Val. The words “Joy of Being” are on this award.

BEST CLUB WOMAN is awarded to the woman who displays a high level of Club involvement and is a great team player within the Club.

BEST CLUB MAN is awarded to the man who displays a high level of Club involvement and is a great team player within the Club.

TRIP LEADER AWARD JOHN WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHIC AWARD (judged by the Life Members) is presented to the member who enters the best photo from a TLCC Club trip.

BEST JUNIOR CLUB PERSON GENERAL BUSINESS COMMITTEE ELECTIONS

o o o o o o o o o

President introduces Returning Officer.

President seeks a mover and seconder to accept as the Returning Officer President declares all positions vacant Returning Officer runs nominators presentation – each has two minutes Explains voting procedure Explains preference voting system Explains how we handle votes on a person who has nominated for more than one position Membership votes Returning Officer hands back to President to suspend AGM and run the General Meeting.

• • • • • • • •

SUSPEND AGM OPEN GENERAL MEETING CLOSE GENERAL MEETING PRESIDENT RE-OPENS AGM AND HANDS TO RETURNING OFFICER RETURNING OFFICER GIVES VOTING RESULTS PRIOR PRESIDENT HANDS BADGE OF OFFICE OVER TO NEW PRESIDENT NEW PRESIDENT ACCEPTS ON BEHALF OF THE NEW COMMITTEE NEW PRESIDENT CLOSES MEETING.

• • • •

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2014-2015

A N N UIAPL R E P O R T

PRESIDENTS REPORT nbelievable as it seems, this year of my Presidency is coming to a close. Last year I was keen to continue for another term and truly appreciate gaining the members’ confidence at the election. I have always made it clear that this would be my last year as President. Having held the role back in 1999-2002 for three years, little did I know that I would be back again ten years later for another three year stint.

Certainly since I first held the role the job has changed immensely. There is a lot more going on especially in the area of communication than ever before.

U

Like all positions, it has had a lot of highs and some unpleasant lows, but overall I have enjoyed the challenge and the opportunity to make a difference. Many years ago I learnt that service to the humanity is the best work of life. Some may have a different view, but I also know that we have all heard the saying that you get out what you put in. I believe you get out much, much more and this role has proved that.

The people that I have met, the things I have done and the opportunities that have arisen both for the Club and me personally has really made it worthwhile. The horrible part of the job is that it is just not possible to keep everybody happy all of the time, overall though, it has been a great journey.

This year like the previous has been a challenge. My three month stint in hospital really knocked me for six and it will still take many more months to recover. The exciting thing about this year though is that we started the year with so many new members on the Committee and ended up with more again. I really appreciate the efforts of the members of the Committee for their input and support. It has at times been challenging but we did it as a team. I was sorry to lose Russell and Adriano midterm but entirely understand and accept their decisions at the time. I won’t say that the Committee solved all of the troubles but I know that we solved many.

and the government funding provides even more surety. We must continue to lobby and fight to not only keep our existing tracks open, but to lift the status of four wheel driving in the community. The 40th anniversary celebrations were extremely well managed by a group of dedicated people capably lead by none other than our very own Sandra & Brian Tanner. What a great effort from the team.

3. Community Activities and PR: The continued efforts both as a Club and through our involvement in FWDV activities have been great for the Club.

4. Choice of Activity: This year many trips have taken place. We have had great social events and more recently developed a full and interesting calendar to complement our core activities. As a Club, we have a lot to offer our members, and as time goes by it only seems to be getting better and better.

5. Looking towards the future: This year going forward the Club will have a new leader but he is picking up the reigns of something that is running well and orderly.

Many hard decisions were made this year to make sure that our Club is in a stronger position than ever before, and ensure our continued strength going forward. There are good and valued people in the Club that are making a difference.

6. Challenges: Yes, running of the Club is challenging, and the Committee deal with the multitude of issues every day. The management style of the Committee has been questioned at times by the members, but this is a good thing. It means that the members are interested and passionate about the direction of the Club. So many organisations fail because Committees generally manage and nobody questions their action or inaction. We have welcomed the electronic age into the Club this year, and like anything new, it was at times testing, but exciting times lie ahead for us as we look forward to embracing the future.

1. Trips: Having had Ian and Adam on the Committee has brought a clear insight into this year. Late in the year Laurie joined them. Certainly the Committee has spent much time evaluating and working to improve the way we deliver, run and manage trips. Tony Middleditch did an amazing job and really shone out with the trips run as part of the 40th anniversary of FWDV.

I could at this point go on to thank the so many people that have played a role in the Club and made extraordinary contributions but I know I would miss at least one and that would be devastating to me. Perhaps it would be better if I just asked all of the members to join with me and thank all of those people. You have all helped made a difference. As usual I will say again, never be afraid to put your hand up, you just might be every surprised how good it will make you feel when you look back on your contributions.

2. FWDV: I decided to join the board of FWDV and with the assistance of our Club reps; we have made a valuable contribution to our peak body. Clearly FWDV have made great inroads in the last twelve months and most recently has been financially managed back into a good position

In closing, I simply must express my most sincere gratitude to my fellow members of the Committee. Sandra for being my everything. My God, I would not have been able to do it without her! Alan for stepping up to the role of Treasurer, what an amazing job he has done. Russell, what

I think it would be prudent to wrap up on last year’s comments in my report:

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more can I say, but thank you to the person that never says ‘no’ or ‘I am too busy.’

Adriano also a person that never says ‘no’ but also provided an amazing insight into the world of insurance and the project. Ian for running the survey and gaining valuable insight to the memberships. Adam for his unrelenting passion for trips and contributions to Club Shop amongst other things.

Laurie for stepping in to fill a vacancy, but also stepping up to hold the mantle whilst I had been away in hospital. Steve for his balanced views and contributions to FWDV. Michael who also recently joined the Committee, but provides fresh insight.

Lastly, I just want to say thank you to the membership. I sincerely hope that I have made a difference. Thank you also to all the members for simply just being part of what I truly believe is an amazing Club. I will continue as immediate past President on the new Committee for another year, so sorry but you will be stuck with me for just a little longer. Take care and see you about some time soon. Cheers!

Ian Ross PRESIDENT

TREASURER’S REPORT he annual audit of the Club’s financial records is being held at the time of writing this report. It is expected that the audit will be complete before the AGM, enabling audited financial results to be published on the Club’s website in the form of an Annual Financial Report. This report in only accessible to TLCCV members.

T

A net loss of $728 was incurred for the year ended 31st March, 2015 compared to a surplus of $6,069 returned in financial year 2014. There were five major factors influencing this result, the first three of which will lead to significant financial benefits for future years: • There was an increase in advertising revenue to $29,556, compared with $24,000 in 2014. This included the recovery of $2,500 of outstanding unpaid advertising revenue carried forward from 2014.

• Reduced printing costs were negotiated for the printing of the monthly magazine (2015: $34,154; 2014: $38,848).

• Following consultation and initial advice from the Club’s auditor, higher asset depreciation rates are to be applied in 2015 and in future years, than has been the previous practice. This will assist in keeping a more accurate record and valuation of the Club’s assets. As a consequence, an increased depreciation charge of $20,291 is to be applied this

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2014-2015

A N N UIAPL R E P O R T

year (compared with $9,839 in 2014).

• Interest revenue has reduced by $2,356, (2015: $2,909; 2014: $5,265).

• A surplus of $6,479 was credited from a single Cruiserkhana event in 2015, compared with $9,313 from two Cruiserkhana events credited in the 2014 financial year.

Other significant results include: • Total revenue was $133,138.

• Expenses totalled $113,575; in addition assets were purchased to the value of $10,518, which will be depreciated over their expected useful life.

• The three services receiving the highest levels of expenditure were: • FWDV for membership and insurance: (2015: $20,776; 2014: $21,404) • Yarck (including asset purchases): (2015: $20,692; 2014: $25,789) • Magazine (nett loss): (2015: $18,888; 2014: $24,535) • There has been an increase of $8,261 in cash holdings, which are now $131,925.

• Total equity has reduced by $728 to $582,487.

I would like to thank members for the opportunity to serve as Treasurer of this fine Club, my predecessors for their diligence and assistance willingly offered during my transition into this role, and Assistant Treasurer Steve de Mamiel for his assistance throughout the year.

Alan McMeekin TREASURER

ANNUAL TRIPS REPORT certainly did not envisage that I would be writing this report, having announced my resignation from the position last year. But, here I am as the transition to Scott Hamilton did not work out as expected.

I

It is important to note that all of our activities are run by volunteers and that a huge amount of time, energy, commitment and passion is required to keep things running. Please consider assisting the operation of our club in any way possible.

Ideas are good but what is really needed is for people to follow up on those ideas and take them further; not relying on the same old few to do the work!

Anyway, quite a successful year with 37 trips having been run, consisting of 8 day trips, 15 weekend trips, 10 extended weekend trips and 4 outback trips. The concern regarding the concentration of trips to a limited number of trip leaders still remains but it is also refreshing to see that our new trip leaders are also active in running trips.

There have been 17 Trip leaders running trips this past year, either running solo or in partnership with other trip leaders.

34 Overland Cruisering

There can be no complaint against those trip leaders who may be struggling to run trips as doing so does take quite some commitment especially with other family and work related responsibilities. Of this I am more of aware with an increased time required to be spent with aging parents and still requiring to keep a small business operational.

This past year has seen a change in trip leader training with a trial of running it as a correspondence course and having each new trip leader paired with an experienced mentor. Many thanks to those involved in both sides of the training regime.

A major task that I have been working on for the better part of 2015 is the coordinating of trips for the FWDV 40th anniversary celebration. 22 separate trips have been established and these are also available for club members to utilise for their own use or preferably for future TLCCV trips.

I remind all members of our reciprocal trips agreement with TLCC NSW and that opportunities do exist to be invited on to other FWDV affiliate club trips.

Many thanks to all those who have been involved in trip leading and training this past year.

Finally, I will be absent from this year’s AGM, being in transit from Vancouver British Columbia at that date.

Tony Middleditch TLCCV TRIP COORDINATOR

YARCK MANAGEMENT ANNUAL REPORT he past twelve months just seems to have flashed by and once again the maintenance of our great property has been upheld by a small but very dedicated number of members. A very good turnout for the November Maintenance and Construction weekend meant many tasks were tackled.

T

Land Cruisers. Sleeper seats built in the C/K kiosk area. A new table and seat was constructed under the trees at the front of the Hilton. Camp sites improved with the removal of dead and dangerous trees.

Firewood collected, there never seems to be enough so come along and help. The Grevillea Garden had old growth removed and new planting occurred.

Thistle spraying is done regularly, weather permitting. Mowing is also part of the plan as summer and the C/K approach. Regular contact is made with the local CFA in regard to Fire Safety. A team regularly patrol the fence line removing fallen trees and repairing any damage.

Construction of the Bush Hut continues With most of the external cladding is on as is the roof. Verandah posts are ready to go as soon as the holes are prepared. We still want helpers on this project, be part of it. . Other proposals for storage or training facilities are being discussed. A proposal for construction of a Forecourt area in the car park did not receive support from members.

Track work has been confined to minor repairs and clearing areas. Some serious work was done on the entry to the Water Crossing and a track in the Whoopsy gully was reopened.

The purchase of new batteries for the solar has vastly improved the system. A new generator was purchased and a secure locker was built. A proposal was put in for an assessment of Wild Life on the property, the outcome is a camera has been purchased and placed in various areas and the ongoing outcome will be presented at a General Meeting sometime soon.

A special thanks to the team that come along to our monthly Yarck Management Meetings for their commitment and to all the members who make it all worthwhile.

We do have a great time at Yarck no matter what the weather throws at us.

Brian Stewart (340) YARCK MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR

There has been a lot of use of the property over this period of time. The monthly Maintenance and Construction weekends are usually followed by the new members Driver Training weekend. Other Training weekends covered vehicle maintenance, safe Chainsaw procedures, map reading and photographic weekends. There was also a visit from the Nissan 4WD Club.

And most recently a Remembrance day for the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Memorial Garden.

A number of social events were held, the major one being the Cruiserkhana. As you can see there are plenty of ways to be involved.

As well as doing the regular maintenance of equipment modifications were done to the vehicle ramp to cater for the 200 Series Overland Cruisering 5

2014-2015

A N N UIAPL R E P O R T

GEELONG BRANCH SECRETARY’S REPORT y report this year is for a full 12 months (last year I held the position of Treasurer/Secretary for only 9 months).

As I said last year, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in this role. I am immensely grateful for the help and support given to me by the members, especially Matt McPhee and Matt Lilley.

M

Our involvement in the Caravan & Camping Show at the Geelong Showgrounds was successful and we received many enquiries.

Colin & Dinah Kosky, Les Mulholland from Cobden and Vince & Annette Thorne have joined our happy band and these new members have been on Geelong outings and Melbourne trips. Annette’s involvement was curtailed due to a broken hip, but she will soon be back with us.

In conclusion, I look forward to serving for another year (if I am nominated and elected) in a vibrant Club heading towards great things.

Jennie Harvie TREASURER/SECRETARY – GEELONG BRANCH

4 Overland Cruisering

TRAINING ANNUAL REPORT n March this year I decided to apply to take over the vacant position of Training Coordinator for TLCCV. This was partly due to the fact that I believe if you are not happy with something, then put your hand up and offer to be part of the solution rather than sit in judgement. The other reason was the clear message given by members in the latest survey that the desire to participate in training was there.

This was confirmed when Simon Mustey and I ran the wheel bearing weekend in March. We had 10 people on the waiting list wishing to do the course.

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I would like to thank all the people who have willingly offered up their time and expertise to both run courses for members and to being the training sub-committee. It is the members who do things such as this that really make up the strength of our Club. Without these people there would cease to be a Club, so please support them in all that they do.

I would also like to confirm that I would like to remain in the position of Training Coordinator for the upcoming year. I have also submitted the budget to Alan McMeekin for the upcoming year.

Matt Lilley TRAINING COORDINATOR

Contact was made with previous members of the training sub-committee, and together we laid the groundwork to get some courses on the table for the membership.

We have chosen a ‘members helping members’ ethos and as a result are only running two courses this year from external providers as this attracts a cost.

All other courses being run this year are being conducted by members offering their time and expertise to help other members. As a sub-committee, we feel that this will pass on a lot of useful knowledge and promote camaraderie amongst the membership.

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YA R C K

BUSHFIRE PLAN

The Toyota Land Cruiser Club does not recommend a “Stay and Defend” plan.

Infrastructure on the property can be replaced.

FIRE DANGER PERIOD [November – May] It is members’ responsibility to listen to radio news reports each evening during the Fire Danger Period for advice on the possibility of fires. Also be up to date with any declaration of Total Fire Ban Days.

Yarck is in the NORTH CENTRAL FIRE BAN DISTRICT-149 Rennies Lane, GOBUR It is recommended that members leave the property the day before a declared Total Fire Ban day or very early in the morning of a Total Fire Ban day Members should not go to the property during any Total Fire Ban day.

EVACUATION Those present will select one person from their number to take charge, The issue of evacuation during an emergency must be addressed early in the planning.

Evacuation can be extremely dangerous unless it takes place well in advance of the fire hazard entering the general area of the camp. Roads may be blocked with fallen timber and visibility reduced by thick smoke.

Increased pressures on emergency services may make it difficult for them to render assistance.

Evacuation should only be done via the main access track to Rennies Lane and the Gobur –Yarck Road.

REFUGE There are NO bushfire proof shelters on the property.

If a fire incident occurs and members cannot leave the property, then the Hut could possibly be used as a “safer place” to provide protection from radiant heat. It should be made as fire safe as is practical.

Wet towels to be placed under doors to prevent embers entering.

There is running water inside; there are knapsacks and fire extinguishers.

Other equipment to have on hand should include.

A battery operated am/fm radio and P2 filter masks.

UHF radios left on – mobile phones – torches – first aid kits – drinking fluids.

Clothing - it is advisable to have long trousers, long sleeved shirt and sturdy footwear. Gloves and hat are also useful.

The wearing of shorts, dresses, thongs or any synthetic fabrics is totally unsuitable.

Be prepared for smoke and embers that may enter the building. After the fire front has passed check outside and extinguish any burning embers or fires around the hut.

All vehicles should be parked on bare ground, facing towards the exit with all doors and windows closed and keys in

the ignition. DO NOT BLOCK OFF ANY ACCESS TRACKS. Alarm, A distinctive alarm signal should be used, a simple manual device such as the triangle hanging in the tree outside the hut or the electronic device near the radios in the hut.

Panic. This is something that can well be done without. Anyone showing signs of panic should be kept under some form of supervision, and provided with reassurance and prevented from doing anything rash.

COMMUNICATION and CONTACTS • Phone: 1800 240 667 for Bushfire information.

• 000 only to report a fire.

• Alexandra Fire Station Phone 0357721855 • Yarck Fire Captain Phone 0357734334.

Mobile: 0439 656 913.

• ABC radio AM band 774 • Local Radio Station (Alexandra) UGFM 106.9 (an official emergency broadcaster) • GPS coordinates (six figure grid) of the Hilton.

• Websites www.abc.net.au\emergency www.cfa.vic.gov.au A Bushfire Survival Kit is located on the notice board behind the hut door.

It is available for members to read and return it.

MEMBER SERVICES DIRECTORY

ELTHAM TIMBER & HARDWARE P/L ROB DEYLEN (1622) MANAGING DIRECTOR Mobile: 0409 305 534 1175 - 1181 Main Road, Eltham Vic. 3095 Phone: 9439 5533 (All Hours) Fax: 9431 1762

miles.ppm@bigpond.com

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9758 9288 9735 0188 Visit our website: www.widetread.net.au

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Outstanding on and off-road performance, this tyre gives you the best of both worlds.

An ideal tyre for drivers who seek a combination of on and off road use.

LTX A/T A 2 The Michelin LTX A/T 2 is the ultimate all terrain 4x4 tyre designed to deliver rugged off-road durability, for Australia's harshest rural and mining environments, and a quiet, comfortable Michelin highway ride.

ST - Sure Tr T ac Baja Radial AT A Z - 4 Rib Design 60% Road & Sand 40% Dirt & Mud

The Baja Radial ATZ A is the latest 4 Rib All Terrain T design from Mickey Thompson. This unique design delivers excellent off road traction in a wide variety of terrains, without compromising the on road ability of the tyre. The wider footprint incorporates larger tread lugs with the latest internal siping technology to give better handling in wet and greasy conditions.

Latitude To T ur HP The MICHELIN Latitude Tour HP lasts 20% longer, has improved 5% in accoustic comfort as well as vibration comfort, and is safer with 5% extra grip on wet surfaces

Proven 4x4 tyre on versatility, durability and excellent traction in some of the toughest terrains. Continuous circumferential blocks provide good handling both on and off road. Twostage unidirectional sturdy lugs provide maximum self-cleaning properties and provide maximum traction on soft ground. Sturdy independent blocks provide excellent rock climbing property.

60% Road & Sand 40% Dirt & Mud

Ideal for outback touring, and high mileage with regular bitumen and offroad driving. Exellent offroad traction and good performer in muddy conditions.

Reinforced for puncture resistance and guaranteed to last up to 80,000 kms*

STT - Super traction Ty T re 20% Road & Sand 80% Dirt & Mud

Ideal for serious offroad applications.

Armor-Tek3 carcass construction now 33% stronger in sidewalls and 2.5 times mor resistant to tearing. Exellent offroad traction. Surprising bitumen grip and quiet ride for an aggresive traction tyre.

Baja Radial MTZ 40% Road & Sand 60% Dirt & Mud

The Baja Radial MTZ is designed for maximum traction off road and on the blacktop. The new tread blocks are designed to minimise noise, making the MTZ one of the quietest traction tyres available.

Baja Radial Claw

A - All Te ATR T rrain Reinforced 70% Road & Sand 30% Dirt & Mud

Ideal for high mileage driving on bitumen and exploring offroad.

Suprisingly quiet ride with exellent bitumen grip, especially in the wet.

Excellent for driving on sand. Reinforced for puncture resistance and guaranteed to last up to 90,000 kms*

Road & Sand 80% Dirt & Mud

Radial Claw has 23 degree angles the ultimate angle for and self cleaning (used on blades and tractor tyres.) This you get maximum traction and e level of road noise as a less ve tyre. Reinforced sidewals are here you need it, just below the

tread.

CS4 Touring i - All Wheel Drive i 90% Road & Sand 10% Dirt & Mud

Twice the mileage without giving up grip or comfort. Superior wet traction.

Excellent stability, traction and and treadwear, premium appearance and guaranteed to last up to 80,000 kms*