2015 11 tlccv magazine

Nov Cover 2015

16/11/15

10:18 PM

Page 1

November 2015

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

A0005442c

Inside... < Snowy

< ARB Icon

< Chainsaw Course

River Ramble

- Toyota HiLux

at Yarck

www.tlccv.com.au

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

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

NOVEMBER 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: $155.00 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 Club’s Driver Awareness course.

RECOGNISED CLUB RADIO CHANNEL: 15 UHF

VOLUME 44

2015 No.5

Club Information

1

Committee 2015-2016

2

President’s Report

3

Yarck Plan

3

Over the Hill

5

Calendar

9

Coming Events

10

2016 CruiserKhana

13

Chainsaw Training Course

18

Bush Craft & Camping Skill weekend

19

Yarck Working Bee

19

Snowy River Ramble Trip

23

Yarck Working Bee

26

News from ARB

27

Yarck Bushfire Plan

28

Member Directory

28

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

Main photo by Reg Schlipalius 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

Part 1 Oct

13/10/15

11:35 PM

Page 2

COMMITTEE President Laurie Miles president1@tlccv.com.au

2015 - 2016 Advertising Sandra Tanner

advertising@tlccv.com.au

Activities Coordinator activities@tlccv.com.au Matt Lilley Vice President Michael Martin president2@tlccv.com.au

Past President Ian Ross

Webmaster Laurie Miles

webmaster@tlccv.com.au

Excursion Visits Coordinator excursions@tlccv.com.au

Driver Training John MIlls: driverawareness@tlccv.com.au * Driver Training Course bookings * Awareness Course certificates Yarck Management yarckmanage@tlccv.com.au Brian Stewart

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

president3@tlccv.com.au Secretary Sandra Tanner secretary1@tlccv.com.au Assistant Secretary Ian wells secretary2@tlccv.com.au Treasurer Alan McMeekin treasurer1@tlccv.com.au

Magazine Distribution Gordon Chessum

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

Club Shop Graham Cahill

Technical Brett Dyson

Social Coordinator

technical@tlccv.com.au

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

Assistant Treasurer Barbra Bryant treasurer2@tlccv.com.au

Special Events Peter & Thea McLean

Committee Michael Schuettke committee1@tlccv.com.au

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

Committee Liz Mills

Librarian Wendy Wilson library@tlccv.com.au * Borrow DVDs & books * Contributions to the Library

committee2@tlccv.com.au

Magazine Editor Sandra Tanner:

Raffles & Supper Gabi & Grace Azzam

clubshop@tlccv.com.au

Sergeant-At-Arms

social@tlccv.com.au * Book for participation in social events Visitor Greeters Carol & Greg Edmunds Cruiserkhana enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au

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

FWDV Delegate Tony Bryant fwdvdelegate@tlccv.com.au editor1@tlccv.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

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

U P D AT E

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

ummer is just around the corner.

With this in mind, we all must be careful of fire conditions in and throughout the High Country and also around our property at Yarck. With many fallen branches lying across the property, it is essential that we are cautious when lighting camp fires at Yarck during the fire season. Please make sure you are aware of the restrictions before lighting a camp fire. Details are available at: http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/can/ Just click on the BBQ/Campfires link on that page.

S

As you read this report the newly formed Yarck Strategy group have held their first meeting this month. If you have any input that you wish to be discussed by this group, please email me and I will table it at one of our future meetings. It is expected that we will be able to come back to members at a monthly meeting in early 2016 and discuss our deliberations. Thanks to the members that have offered to assist with this group.

The monster Yarck (Maintenance & Construction) Working Bee will be taking place this weekend (Nov 21-22). Hopefully many of you can find the time to come up to Yarck and assist with the big clean up. If you can help, please send Brian Stewart

YA R C K

an email at yarckmanagement@tlccv.com.au. A BBQ will be provided on Saturday night for all the helpers.

Heidi and I managed to squeeze in a club trip over the Melbourne Cup weekend.

Although it was quite wet, we managed to complete our trip, although we had to make modifications due to closed or very wet tracks. We still managed to find some great challenges for the convoy. Garry (Hurricane) Cooper also ran a Portland dunes trip. From the pictures I have seen, it looks like everyone had a great time.

Garry tells me that (as usual) the ‘hurricane’ winds arrived on Friday night, but luckily calmed down before they hit the dunes on Saturday morning. Last weekend James Clark took 6 vehicles along the Avon River. Having run that trip many times before, I am sure they saw some great parts of our High Country. Ian Wells is heading off to Wonnangatta this weekend – another great place to visit. With many more trips being advertised, make sure you don’t miss out on booking on a club trip. Our Trip Leaders put a lot of time and effort into running club trips, so make sure you get right behind them and support their them.

on Facebook of the last Maintenance & Construction weekend at Yarck. The guys were busy fixing up some drains near the toilet block plus upgrading some of the 12 volt wiring in the Hilton. It is good to see the hard work in progress.

The committee met last month to review our club By-Laws. We are just finalizing the wording with our Legal Eagle. It is the committee’s intention to document the changes at our December meeting.

CruiserKhana is in its final preparations.

Applications will be downloaded before the end of the month. Don’t forget that CruiserKhana will take place at Yarck on 16th & 17th April next year.

Angela has been busy organizing some Social activities. These activities are shown in the magazine and on Weekend Wrap. If you would like to get involved in one of these activities, please contact Angela at social@tlccv.com.au for more details.

Laurie Miles (1058) PRESIDENT

Some of you will have seen some pictures

M A S T EI R P PLAN

YARCK MASTER PLAN TERMS OF REFERENCE Introduction For many years, members have promoted initiatives at Yarck. Recent examples have included the Forecourt development project, bush hut and training room(s).

Whilst many of these proposals have had merit, most have not been proceeded with for a variety of reasons, not the least being the finite amount of funds held by the Club.

During the past year, the Committee has instituted a number of processes to ensure that the Club’s limited funds are spent wisely. A key part of the process is the development of a master plan for Yarck so that all proposals are considered within a common framework rather than in isolation.

Scope The framework’s scope includes (but is not necessarily limited to) the following items: • Hilton development/improvements (e.g. electricity rewiring, solar panels) • Toilet/shower block(s) development/ improvements • Forecourt development • Training and associated facilities • Driver Awareness and Advanced Driver Training facilities and equipment • Cruiserkhana

• Yarck maintenance including equipment • Bush Hut • Camp/caravan site(s) development • Tracks (new) • Venue Hire • Training room • Land development including possible new land acquisition • Storage facilities (e.g. for the trailer, paper archives) • Emergency fire shelter(s) Process All members are encouraged to contribute to the scope but it is intended to finalise the scope of the Yarck Master Plan early in November. The Master Plan’s table of contents will be based on the final scope.

Additional items such as the scheduling of events and identifying future levels of investment will also be included in the plan.

A small committee will be formed to develop the plan. It is the intention of the Committee to circulate the final plan to all members by the end of January 2016.

Current proposals will be held over until the completion of the plan.

Structure Member involvement is vital and all members are invited to make submission with ideas and suggestions.

If you also consider that you have the time, expertise and interest to contribute, please contact Laurie Miles (President).

Overland Cruisering 3

Nov over the Hill

16/11/15

10:20 PM

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

Page 1

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 pay-ments 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 on http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/safety/fire,-flood-and-other-closures/seasonal-road-closures2

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

Trip Leader: DECEMBER Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details: Trip Leader: JANUARY, 2016 Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader:

OXFAM CHRISTMAS TREE DELIVERY, 2015 Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December, 2015 Saturday - South & East delivery - Heatherwood School, 370-380 Springvale Road, Donvale.

Sunday - North & West delivery - Princes Hill Primary School, Wilson Street, North Carlton.

Pick up time before 10:00am both days to get the best trees.

No limit. The more the merrier.

Easy, but will be a good test of your navigation skills.

Fill up with good Christmas cheer and have fun.

15 UHF but your favorite radio station that has good Christmas carols.

Trailer, ute or station wagon to carry at least 20 trees safely, rope, Santa hat if you have one, Melways directory & a navigator.

Hopefully you won’t get lost & have to stay overnight anywhere.

Trees are already paid for so you don’t handle any money. Delivery time is usually 2-3 hours. This is a great way to start off your Christmas by delivering trees to the families of Melbourne & at the same time supporting a worthwhile cause. If you can help send an email to the Trip Leader with your suburb, phone number & method of delivery (ute, trailer, station wagon) no later than 20th November, 2015.

Garry Cooper: Email: gac001@bigpond.com EXPERIENCE THE GRAMPIANS Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th December, 2015 TBA Saturday 8:30am 8 vehicles.

Easy to medium (some sections may be difficult if wet).

Full tank from Stawell.

UHF (initially channel 15) Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation, genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including spare tyre.

Bush camping on Saturday night.

We will explore some exciting tracks in the Grampians in Western Victoria.

No dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Laurie & Heidi Miles: Email: trips@zebra400.com ABERFELDY ADVENTURE Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th January, 2015 TBA Saturday 8:30am 8 vehicles Medium to difficult Full tank from Moe UHF (initially channel 15) Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation, genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including spare tyre. Room to carry your MTB, if riding.

Bush camping on Saturday night.

Explore the exciting 4WD tracks near the Aberfeldy River, including a visit to O’Tooles Flat, plus take in the views as we descend the famous 12 switchbacks on Trigg Track, just north of the old mining town of Walhalla.

No trailers, no dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Laurie & Heidi Miles: Email: trips@zebra400.com Overland Cruisering 5

Nov over the Hill

16/11/15

10:22 PM

Page 2

CALENDAR

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

Trip Leader:

AVON RIVER ADVENTURE Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th February Huggetts Lane camping area.

8:30am Saturday.

8 vehicles Medium to hard - depending on weather conditions Full tank from Traralgon UHF (initially channel 15) Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation, genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including spare tyre.

Friday & Saturday night bush camping.

We will head north, crossing the Avon River & Ben Cruachan Creek many times. We then head east following the southern edge of the Avon Wilderness area & camp on the Avon River. On Sunday we will retrace steps to the Ben Cruachan Creek, then head up to Ben Cruachan to take in the great views. We continue to follow the Ben Cruachan Creek & then climb up to McMillans Lookout to take in the views. We will descend from McMillans & finish our trip near Cheynes Bridge, just south of Licola. No trailers, no dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted. Laurie & Heidi Miles: Email: trips@zebra400.com

FEBRUARY Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio:

SWIFTS CREEK EXPLORER Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th February.

Swifts Creek Caravan Park.

Saturday 8:30am 8 vehicles Medium to hard - depending on weather conditions.

Full tank from Bruthen UHF (initially channel 15)

Overnight: Details:

DANDENONG 25 Frankston-Dandenong Rd FAWKNER 1074 Sydney Rd FRANKSTON 138 Beach St GEELONG 25 West Fyans St Newtown HOPPERS CROSSING Hoppers Crossing Homemakers Centre Shop 4, 428 Old Geelong Rd LILYDALE 43 Cave Hill Rd MENTONE B6, 27-29 Nepean Highway MILDURA 846 Fifteenth St SWAN HILL 10 Rutherford St WANTIRNA Cnr. Boronia Rd & Wantirna Rd WARRNAMBOOL 25 Walsh Rd 6 Overland Cruisering

Overland Cruisering 5

Nov over the Hill

16/11/15

10:23 PM

Page 3

CALENDAR

(Swifts Creek Explorer continued) Equipment: Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation, genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including spare tyre.

Overnight: Base camping at Swifts Creek Caravan Park - fees apply.

Details: Explore the exciting 4WD tracks around Swifts Creek, including the famous TVGC track.

Trailers are most welcome at our base camp at Swifts Creek Caravan Park.

No dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Trip Leader: Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email: trips@zebra400.com MARCH Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment:

Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader: MARCH Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader: APRIL Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader:

TINGARINGY TRAILER TRIP - (Labour Day weekend) Saturday 12th - Monday 14th March Orbost Caravan Park Saturday 8:30am 8 vehicles Medium to hard - depending on weather conditions Full tank from Orbost UHF (initially channel 15) Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation. Both vehicle & trailer must have genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including sparee tyres.

Trailer must be suited for off road travel.

Orbost Caravan Park on first night. Bush camping on Saturday & Sunday nights.

Head north from Orbost to mt Tingaringy drivng to the summit on the NSW border. Take in the views as we head down to McKillops Bridge via the Laurie Track.

On Monday we will visit the Little River Gorge before heading home.

No dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email: trips@zebra400.com SANDY WYPERFELD NP & VIC / SA BORDER TRACK (Easter weekend) Friday 25th - Monday 28th March.

Lake Hindmarsh Friday 8:30am 8 vehicles Medium - depending on weather conditions 145Lt capacity. Full tank from Horsham, refueling at Pinnaroo if required.

UHF (initially channel 15) Basic recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points on front & back, shovel, air compressor for tyre inflation, genuine off road tyres with at least 50% tread including spare tyre.

Thursday - Lake Hindmarsh CP (fees apply) - bush camping Friday, Saturday & Sunday night.

Travel through the sandy Wyperfeld NP via Lake Albacutya, circling the Big Desert via Ross Springs. We will then travel through the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Disputed Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; before crossing into SA & heading down the Centre Track. We will join the Vic/SA Border Track at the bottom of the One Way section. We will experience some interesting sand dunes & bog holes, before finishing in Nhill.

No trailers, no dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email: trips@zebra400.com

FRASER ISLAND - (TLCC NATIONAL CONFERENCE) Friday 22nd - Wednesday 27th April, 2016 Noosa Heads TBA 10 vehicles Medium Full tank from Noosa Heads.

15 UHF Standard DA recovery equipment including long handle shovel and air compressor. Genuine off road AT tyres with 50% tread or better.

Noosa Heads and Fraser Island A perfect opportunity to meet other TLCC members from throughout Australia & head to Fraser Island enjoying the sandy island tracks both coastal & hinterland. Anzac Day service will be held on the Monday on Fraser Island.

Caravans & campervans are OK. No dogs, no cats, no firearms permitted on this trip.

Michael Martin: Email: shuthonger@gmail.com

Overland Cruisering 7

CALENDAR November 21st & 22nd November 21st & 22nd November 28th November 28th & 29th December 5th December 5th & 6th December 5th & 6th December 6th December 8th December 12th & 13th December 15th 2016: January 9th & 10th January 12th January 30th & 31st February 8th February 9th February 13th & 14th February 20th & 21st February 27th & 28th February 27th & 28th March 5th March 8th March 12th – 14th March 14th March 19th & 20th March 19th & 20th March 25th – 28th April 9th & 10th April 11th April 12th

COMING TRIPS Lake Fyans with Geelong Branch Monster Maintenance & Construction weekend Christmas Pub Night DA Practical weekend Geelong Branch Pizza Night Jamieson to Mt Skene trip Oxfam Christmas Tree deliveries TLCCV Family Christmas Party Yarck Management Experience the Grampians trip General Meeting Aberfeldy Adventure DA Theory (if needed) DA Practical weekend (if needed) Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Avon River Adventure Maintenance & Construction w/e Swifts Creek Explorer trip DA Practical weekend Mediterranean Night at Yarck DA Theory Tingaringy Trailer trip Yarck Management – Public Holiday Pre-Easter Family Get-Together Maintenance & Construction w/e Sandy Wyperfeld NP & Vic/SA Border trip C/K set-up with Maintenance & Construction w/e Yarck Management meeting DA Theory

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.

April 22nd – 27th April 30th & 31st May 9th May 10th May 21st & 22nd May 28th & 29th June 13th ` June 14th June 25th & 26th July 11th July 12th July 23rd & 24th July 30th & 31st August 8th August 9th August 20th & 21st August 27th & 28th September 12th September 13th September 24th & 25th October 10th October 11th October 22nd & 23rd November 5th & 6th November 8th November 14th November 19th & 20th November 26th & 27th December 12th December 13th

TLCC National Conference to Fraser Island DA Practical weekend Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e DA Practical weekend Yarck Management – Public Holiday DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e DA Practical weekend Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e DA Practical weekend Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e Yarck Management meeting DA Theory Maintenance & Construction w/e DA Practical weekend DA Theory Yarck Management meeting Maintenance & Construction w/e DA Practical weekend Yarck Management meeting DA Theory

Note: Yarck Management meetings to be confirmed.

Overland Cruisering 9

ANNUAL “MONSTER” MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION WORKING BEE WEEKEND

21st & 22nd NOVEMBER, 2015 To be held at Yarck, a “Monster” working bee is being organized for members to assist in preparing our beautiful property for the summer months and the ensuing Cruiserkhana.

We need as many members as possible to come for the weekend, or even for a day.

There is a host of tasks that require our attention for the safety of our members and the property.

BYO tools, trailers, safety gear and the usual food and liquid requirements.

Saturday night a BBQ will be provided.

For catering purposes, please advise ASAP if you will be attending, by advising Brian Stewart at a meeting or emailing Brian at: yarckmanagement@tlccv.com.au Proposed Items for the weekend Hut Stain/paint cupboard behind the front door (newspaper cupboard) Shelves for cast iron pans and jaffles (or large hooks) Clean up storage corner Sand and paint verandah posts and beams Dust/clean and wash floor – awkward as floor cannot be walked on when wet Check and service all taps and cisterns (including Bus Stop) Service gas hot water units Service generator Grass cutting and brush cutting around hut (BYO ride on mower would be very handy) Special Project Concrete drain and track near toilet block.

Concrete being delivered Saturday morning.

THIS REQUIRES ANYONE WITH CONCRETING EXPERIENCE. Solar System – replace timers and check all lights.

Camping Areas General camping. Whoopsy-Do, Bachelor Pad,

Caravan Park and Garvey’s Gully.

Clean up fallen timber – stack or remove.

Evergreen Clean up around plants – re-staking, pruning, remove unwanted stakes, etc.

Memorial Garden clean-up.

Tidy up storage tank for garden equipment & remove garden equipment from breezeway, eg. rolls of plastic tree guards.

Mow around trees in competition area (in preparation for tractor slashing) Remove black wattle (cut and poison) from Grevillea and Callistemon gardens Spray thistle areas Bush Hut – set out position for verandah post holes.

General Clean out contour drains in car park and under access track Firewood Cut back ti tree around 2nd gate. Remove stumps Move ash piles from burn off areas Fencing – check boundary and repair damage Bridge nuts and bolts require tightening and a

clean-up of fallen timber Lengthen trailer shelter to protect trailer couplings Exit gate (near Bog Hole) Pick up fallen timber and small branches from grassed areas to be tractor slashed Paint signs All the fire extinguishers will be serviced by the CFA CruiserKhana Events – need to be brought up to scratch as very little has been done since the CruiserKhana Saturday Evening – there will be a BBQ provided, so we need to know numbers for catering purposes. Email yarckmanage@tlccv.com.au or social@tlccv.com.au This can also be a wine tasting evening so bring along your favorite bottle or 2 of wine and cheese to make this a memorable event. This is your last chance to say: “I have been to a Maintenance and Construction Weekend this year.” Come along and support the Yarck Management team.

Brian Stewart (340) YARCK MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR

CRUISERKHANA 2016 16TH & 17H APRIL CruiserKhana next year will move into April due to an early Easter combined with school holidays.

After a solid review of this year’s event, it is proposed to only run the main competition on the Saturday with the prize presentations after dinner on the Saturday night.

The optional events such as Rock Climb and Bog Hole will be run on the Sunday morning.

However, before any further planning/organizing can take place, we need a committee.

Please review the following vacant positions and contact me if you are available.

The committee meets once a month, but a lot of our work is done via email.

Please give serious consideration to volunteering Coordinator, Sponsorship, Publicity, Chief Marshal, Entries, Financial Controller, Secretary, Logistics Coordination, Merchandise and Marshals Coordination.

Please contact Neil Chambers : co-ordinator@cruiserkhana.com.au or phone Neil on: 0419 520 810 10 Overland Cruisering

SPECIAL ACTIVITY

T O Y OI TPA 4 W D P R E V I E W S

E X C L U S I V E P R E V I E W O F L AT E S T T O Y O TA 4 W D V E H I C L E S FOR TLCCV MEMBERS Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th January, 2016 Members are invited to preview three of the very latest Toyota four wheel drives.

• The all new Toyota HiLux • Updated 200 Series LandCruiser • New Fortuner Toyota Motor Corporation has very kindly allowed us to show our members these vehicles, which is a wonderful opportunity for you to come up to Yarck for the weekend and inspect them under the direction of our DA team.

Saturday morning will be allocated to the DA team to drive the vehicles and Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning members will be able to see them go through their paces under the supervision of the DA team.

These three vehicles plus the re-powered Prado were all released in October, so evaluation vehicles are in short supply, making this opportunity very special.

Saturday night a sausage sizzle is organized Please email: secretary1@tlccv.com.au or phone: 5266 1609 for catering purposes.

Brian Tanner Marketing/Public Relations Coordinator

SOCIAL NEWS CHRISTMAS PUB NIGHT Elsternwick Hotel, 259 Brighton Road, Elwood 6:00pm Saturday 28th November.

Be there or be square!

A short 10 minute drive along St Kilda Road from the CBD. It’s in the Entertainment Book. You pay on the night – a la carte menu.

Contact Angela on social@tlccv.com.au or phone 9807 9240 No later than 23rd November.

E ADVANC NOTICE MEDITERRANEAN NIGHT AT YARCK Saturday 5th March, 2016 This is an advance notice and details are being finalized.

Come and enjoy authentic Italian, Greek and Lebanese food prepared by club members. Live DJ and dancing.

Costs still to be finalized but it will be value for money.

Expressions of interest are open NOW. Contact Angela on social@tlccv.com.au or phone 9807 9240

E ADVANC NOTICE PRE EASTER FAMILY GET-TOGETHER AT YARCK 19th & 20th March, 2016 This is a special for families and the young at heart. This is a combined Maintenance & Construction weekend but there will also be a couple of other activities organized on the Saturday.

Saturday night there will be a sausage sizzle.

Sunday morning there will be the egg hunt.

Contact Sandra on secretary1@tlccv.com.au or phone 5266 1609 or Angela on social@tlccv.com.au or phone 9807 9240 Overland Cruisering 11

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER CLUB OF VICTORIA

2 days of exciting 4x4 all terrain, all fun, family four wheel drive skill competitions PLUS 4x4 TEAM CHALLENGE ruiserKhana is a skills based 4x4 event suitable for fourwheel drivers of all standards. No vehicle modifications are necessary to be successful.

Full vehicle specification details are found on the website, but basically are as required by the Cross Country Drivers Association. Highly modified 4x4s are not permitted.

Applications are now invited for drivers in Standard and Touring Classes. Note each vehicle requires a driver and navigator.

C

Entry Fees

Major prizes - More than $10,000 worth of prizes will be

Enquiries:

distributed across all categories, including individual and team awards.

Weekend (Includes camping and Saturday night 3-course dinner.)

• Competitors: $125 • Navigators $50 • Non competitors $40 * Children under 15 $30 Day visitor $10 • Hot and cold food and drinks available all weekend • Event held at Club property at Yarck ( 2 hrs north of Melb.)

• Email - enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au • Phone - Neil on 0419 520 810

4x4 Club Teams Challenge Four wheel drive clubs are invited to field a team(s) to compete for the CruiserKhana Perpetual Trophy. Teams consist of three vehicles from the same club.

Entries close 14th February, 2016

Early Bird Special - Save 10% for entries received before 31st December 2015

15th - 17th April 2016 www.cruiserkhana.com.au

Major sponsors

a n a h K r e s i u r C 2016 CRUISERKHANA 2016 APPLICATION FORM - 15th -17th APRIL 2016 ENTRY APPLICATION - ONE PER VEHICLE Name: .....................................................................................................................................................................................

Address: ................................................................................................................................................................................. ......................................................................................................................................... Postcode: ......................................

Telephone: ...................................................................................... Mobile: ..........................................................................

Email address: ........................................................................................................................................................................

Is the participant a member of a 4WDV affiliated Four Wheel Drive Club?

YES / NO

NAVIGATOR DETAILS Name: .....................................................................................................................................................................................

Address: ......................................................................................................................... Postcode: .......................................

Telephone: ..................................................................................... Mobile: ..........................................................................

Email address: ........................................................................................................................................................................

Is the participant a member of a 4WDV affiliated Four Wheel Drive Club?

YES / NO

ENTRY FEES - Includes camping and Saturday evening dinner Total No. of persons One (1) competitor

$125

(

)

$

Second competitor (Same vehicle)

$125

(

)

$

*Navigator

$50.00

(

)

$

Non driving spectator

$40.00

(

)

$

Non 4WDV Entrants and Guests (See Indemnity section)

$15.00

(

)

$

Child under 15

$30.00

(

)

$

Child under 5

Free

(

)

$

TOTAL PAID *NOTE: Some events require the assistance of another person (Navigator) in the vehicle to complete the task. Competitors will be at a significant disadvantage without a navigator

$

Early bird discount of 10% applies for entries received before 31st December 2015

PAYMENT DETAILS Make cheques payable to - TOYOTA LAND CRUISER CLUB OF VICTORIA VISA/MASTERCARD Card Number: ....................................................... CCV No. ............. Expiry Date: ........../..............

Card in name of: .................................................................... Signature: ...............................................................................

(Please Print)

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND THEN COMPLETE THE DRIVER APPLICATION & INDEMNITY FORMS Please send completed Driver Application & Indemnity Forms to: entries@cruiserkhana.com.au or mail to: Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Aust. (Vic), PO 363 Hawthorn 3122 ENTRIES CLOSE 14th FEBRUARY 2016 or WHEN MAXIMUM ENTRY NUMBERS ARE REACHED 16 Overland Cruisering

CAMPING DETAILS NOTE: ONE ENTRY IS ENTITLED TO ONE CAMP SITE AND ONE CAR PARK SPACE Due to limited parking, excess vehicles and trailers will be required to park elsewhere as directed *If details of size of camping space requirements changes then the organisers must be notified as camping is pre-allocated and a revised space cannot be guaranteed.

No. of Tent(s): ............... Size: ...............................

Trailer No.: ....................... Size: ....................................................

Caravan size: .........................................................

Estimated time of arrival:

FRIDAY: ............................................... SATURDAY: ...............................................................

Gates open noon Friday, close Friday night approx. midnight - reopen 6am Saturday

DRIVER & GUEST DETAILS STANDARD [ ]

DRIVER NO. 1

[

DRIVER NO. 2 VEHICLE REGO

MAKE

TYRE SIZE

4WD CLUB

]

TOURING [ ] [

]

COLOUR Club Member No

A Vehicle can be entered in only one Class

INDEMNITY - NON MEMBER In consideration of the Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Incorporated A-0005442C (“the club”) accepting my application to participate in CruiserKhana 2016 organised activities or functions of the Club.

I do hereby indemnify the club and its officers, members, servants and/or agents from against any damages or loss, which may befall on or occur to me or to my property, or to my spouse or, children, or to my guests and visitors as listed below, or their property, as a consequence of or arising directly or indirectly from my or their participation in or attendance at CruiserKhana 2016 the Club’s activities or functions. I also indemnify the club, its officers, members, servants and/or agents against any claim, action, proceeding or demand made or prosecuted against any of them by any person or persons in respect of such damages or loss and against all costs, damages and expenses which may be incurred in defending or settling any such claim, action, proceeding or demand.

I further authorise any officers, members, or servants of the Club in the event of any injury or illness befalling me or my family whilst I am participating in any way in any Club activity or function to obtain any medical assistance or treatment they may deem necessary or expedient and for the purpose to engage any doctors, paramedics, nursing assistants, hospital accommodation or transport of any kind and I do hereby indemnify the Club from or against any medical or other expenses so incurred and will pay such expenses to the Club on demand.

For Club Insurance purposes all persons entering CruiserKhana who are not members of 4WDV or a 4WDV affiliated Club are required to purchase a Temporary membership of TLCCV costing $15 per person. Please enter this in Payment section.

DATED this

day of

20

Signature/s PLEASE PRINT, BELOW Names of Applicant/s

Names of Guest/s

The full names of all guests accompanying you at Cruiserkhana 2016 must be shown above.

Please note: Camping & dinner will NOT be available for extra party members who are not detailed on this form) 4 Overland Cruisering

Overland Cruisering 17

SOCIAL

EXPRESSIO PN OF INTEREST EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR PUFFING BILLY MAY, 2016

Expressions of interest are sought for a luncheon or dinner and dance journey on Puffing Billy on the first weekend of May, 2016. Cost will be around the $90 mark.

Depending on how we book, Concession or Entertainment Book members may be able to get a reduction.

Please advise your preference as to

TRAINING

whether you would prefer a lunch or dinner and a Saturday or Sunday. It will be the weekend before Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Due to the way Puffing Billy operates, money will need to be paid at the time the booking is made and also menu chosen.

However, at this time, I am trying to gauge the numbers.

All you need to do is contact me at : social@tlccv.com.au and give me your contact details and preferences. Phone numbers are: 9807 9240 or 0419 434 516 Angela Di Lallo Social Coordinator.

CHAINSAW CO I PU R S E A T Y A R C K

9th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11th October, 2015 Attendees: Heidi, Alan, Vincent, Wayne, Michael, Gerry, Graeme, Phil, James A poorly maintained chainsaw or a chainsaw in the hands of the inexperienced or reckless has the potential to cause a lot of damage. Nine TLCCV members gathered at Yarck to undertake a chainsaw operation course to cover safety, maintenance and cutting techniques.

The course began on Friday night with a presentation from the very experienced training crew Steve and Neil. We covered safety around the site, safety equipment, basic mechanics of the saws and cutting techniques.

We got an early start on Saturday morning and learnt how to pull apart, service and sharpen our chainsaws. After greasing bearings and inspecting sprockets etc. the saws were reassembled and chains sharpened. We started a Stihl vs Husqvarna rivalry, which provided plenty of humour for the rest of the weekend. With a few simple tools you can do all the basic servicing yourself and save heaps by not taking it back to the dealer.

Saturday afternoon was time to start cutting. We split into 2 groups and went into the bush on the north side of the camping area where there were a number of trees down. After a quick demonstration from the instructors we all had a go. Some of us with experience had a few bad habits to get out of. Those with little or no experience got a chance to start out with some supervision to get some confidence and learn the correct ways from the start. Dealing with a situation depends on a lot of factors such as slope of the land, how a tree is supported, whether the tree is twisted or under tension and trying to predict how it will behave when cut. By the end of the first afternoon we had covered and practised a variety of techniques.

Sunday was assessment day and as a group we had a problem to solve. There was a tree that had come down and was stuck about a metre and a half off the ground between 2 forks with a third branch stuck in the ground taking some of the

18 Overland Cruisering

weight. There was also another branch wedged higher in the fork that had the whole thing wound up like a spring. With discussion, planning, teamwork and putting into practice what we had covered on Saturday, after a couple of hours the tree was down and cut into firewood.

Overall it was a great weekend. The course was hands on and we had a lot of fun as well as getting a lot of information and experience along the way. Thanks to Matt Lilley for organising the course.

Graeme Innis (2673)

Overland Cruisering 5

TRAINING

B U S H C R A F T & C A MI P I N G S K I L L S W E E K E N D

Bush Craft & Camping Skills weekend 3rd & 4th October, 2015 nyone wanting to get into 4WDing really needs to know more than just the mechanics of what a 4WD can do on various tracks. After all, it’s about the destination as well as the journey, isn’t it?

So the Bush Craft & Camping Skills activity was just the ticket to ensuring that preparing for and setting up camp will be so much more ‘professional’ and accomplished in future. Paul ‘Tracks’ Hawdon put together a great weekend of knowledge and experience sharing for the 16 participants (including 6 dogs who had a fabulous time together). And Yarck put on the best weather ever – clear skies, fresh air, great fellowship.

Saturday morning we all eventually roused from our sleep and were joined by the day visitors to commence learning about ropes, knots, pegs, tents, gas safety, cooking, etc.

Out came a plethora of ropes and instructions to all (left over right, under, over, pull tight…), it definitely had us all in knots!

We also prepared the cardboard ovens for a cook-up for lunch. These are cardboard boxes without the tops or bottoms, lined with several layers of aluminium foil, a row of holes horizontally on both long sides with steel pins pushed through to suspend the reused oven shelves. A bed of heat beads in an aluminium foil tray was started and after some time the food placed inside and an aluminium foil covered cardboard lid placed on top. How ingenious – but unfortunately this time the heat beads decided to not perform. It is believed that

A

YA R C K

the beads were a bad batch – or so the cook said!

We then moved on to Dutch oven cooking and several of the participants got in and made some wonderful creations, including cheese and vegemite twists (sheet of puff pastry with vegemite spread on most of the surface, half covered with shredded cheese, folded in half, cut into strips and given one and a bit twists), mini chocolate flake sausage rolls (sheet of puff pastry with chocolate powder sprinkled on and a Cadbury Flake roughly broken on top, all rolled into a log, cut and placed on their sides), pie apple tarts and triangles (puff pastry cut into squares placed into small aluminium foil pie dishes filled with whatever sweet sauce or jam you like, covered with pastry, stabbed with a fork – one even had ‘TLCCV’ pressed in to it), etc. Most treats only took about 12-15 minutes to cook beautifully and about 1 minute to devour!

The evening meal was another cooking extravaganza with at least 5 Master Chefs taking on the challenge, consumed along with loads of chatter and games. Yes, we even played a few games that was a load of fun. There was even a closet Magician amongst the crowd who managed to pull a few tricks against the only young attendee.

Sunday provided the opportunity to discuss the practice creating land anchors for winching, erecting makeshift shelter and touring the various camping set-ups used by the attendees. Paul had a short length of drag chain stapled to the ground with about 10 small tent pegs, then had all the able-bodied men pull as hard as possible on a rope attached to the end. Try as we

might we could not budge the chain, proving that if you don’t have a suitable winch anchor point in front of your vehicle (or whatever) you can fashion a very capable one from a chain laying on the ground – impressive.

We discussed the various pros and cons of sleeping bags and thermal dynamics of tents, etc and learnt that you don’t get warmer by putting your head inside the sleeping bag to heat up the air inside with your breath, but that it will actually make you colder! Then we inspected the camping set-ups of a number of participants including the Emerson’s very new Drifta Off-Road Tourer, Rob & Karen’s Kimberley Sport RV and the Hawdon’s wonderfully quaint pop-top that was more of a tardis than anything – from the outside it looked very small, but inside was everything anyone might need for comfort.

Everyone thanked Paul for all his preparation, endless stories and tales demonstrating the breadth of his experience and knowledge acquired from decades of Scout leadership and 4WD camping.

There was a lot more on the curriculum that we learnt than can be reported here. It couldn’t be overstated that what was covered on this short course will set all participants on a much better track for enjoyable, comfortable and safer camping. All agreed that the course should be incorporated into the DA course in some fashion as having knowledge of camping, camp safety and general bushcraft and survival are equally as important as knowing how to drive a 4WD into remote and hostile areas.

Mark & Lydia Emerson (2667)

WORKING BEE

19th & 20th September, 2015 Another great weekend at Yarck with the following members present: Peter Hepworth, Ted Gray, Jan Chivers, Ken Hildebrand, Brian Stewart & Alex Lowry, Dulcie Watts, Gary Holt, Peter Burchall, Garry Cooper, Trajco Vilarov, Colin Low, Paul Langenberg, Michael Bourke, Heather Cale. It was also good to see a group of members from the Geelong Branch and they were Kelvin Connors, Jennie Harvie, Graeme, Veronica, Neasha Innis and Livvy Osborne, Mark & James Ker-David.

Saturday morning and there are many willing hands looking for something to do.

First up was to burn a pile of ti-tree near the lower end of Larimer’s track. A phone call to the local CFA to inform them – all OK. This will be our last chance to burn before Fire Restrictions are in force. A team with a trailer rounded up small piles of scrub, some having been pulled out from around the Bus Stop septic tank. Burnable rubbish from the art centre was also taken

to the fire site. Excess tyres were moved from the top end of the old tyre track. A well-earned morning tea at the Bus Stop with cups of coffee and tea and goodies appearing on the table at Dulcie’s campsite. The blocked drain on the main track at the top of Whoopsy-Do was a real challenge for the team on that, all leaves and silt were removed and the pipe cleared with water pressure. A couple of holes were drilled and filled with rocks to filter the silt out before entering the pipe. A job well done.

The fellas at the Bush Hut were setting out for verandah post holes that the tractor would be drilling. Base ends of posts were treated and concrete was placed in holes ready for placement next month. Some garden areas were cleaned up and plant guards re-staked. The small retaining wall near the toilet was removed and the area prepared for replacement next month.

Wiring for the path lights and toilet outside light were re-organized and are back working with the timers operating.

An area at the art centre was cleared and holes drilled and posts put in to extend the trailer storage enclosure. This is all being done with onsite materials. An excellent achievement by a great team.

Happy hour was well earned with plenty of great cheese and nibbles to be had. There was also some very nice wine to be tasted, and some that should not have been. The evening progressed to cooking tea and sitting around talking. Some members were heading back home, but most stayed for Sunday.

Another beautiful day that allowed everyone to complete Saturday’s tasks and round up all the tools, pack everything away, pack up camp sites, have lunch and head off early afternoon. It was a great weekend.

Next month is the Monster Maintenance & Construction Weekend on 21st & 22nd November.

Brian Stewart (340) YARCK MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR

Overland Cruisering 19

22 Overland Cruisering

Overland Cruisering 5

TRIPS

S N O W Y R I V E R R A M B ILPE - M E L B C U P W E E K E N D

Trip Leaders: Laurie & Heidi Miles Convoy: Ryan Davies Mark & Lydia Emmerson Reg & Alex (9) Schlipalius Robert Duff Vincent Chung John & Lachlan (16) Klopstock

Zebra

80 Series TD

Rhino Silverado Drifter Duffs Panda Kloppy

FJ Cruiser Petrol Prado 120 TD 100 Series TD 79 Series TD Prado TD 100 Series TD

ith wet weather expected this weekend, participants for the trip converged on a small farm in Buchan South called Stonehenge Farm Stay Camping & Caravan Park. A special unpowered site rate was negotiated at a very reasonable $20 per night, which was $35 per night cheaper than our original base camp at Buchan National Park.

Although quite basic facilities were available the hosts were very welcoming, plus there were good hot showers. We found ourselves immersed in a typical quiet country farm environment.

Waking on Saturday morning to cows lowing, horses neighing, ducks quacking and wandering through our tents, sheep bleating and birds in full song, you could be forgiven for thinking we were on the set of the movie 'Babe'. The clear skies, fresh air and green rolling hills of the 320 acre property set the scene for our ramble through the Snowy River National Park.

We headed north towards Murrindal and into the national park towards the Snowy River. We started the trip with a slightly

W

anxious drive down dry, dusty tracks knowing that the weatherman, aka Laurie, was regularly updating us on the menacing storm brewing in the north east of the state, and likely to strike us on Saturday evening. We arrived at Jackson's Crossing to discover a number of vehicles on the other side of the river, attempting snatches up to their chassis in water! The trip leader ventured across to see if it was safe

enough for the convoy to attempt a crossing but decided that the current was just too strong. This was evident with their vehicle returning to one side with a distinctly twisted approach angle.

It was decided to change the direction of the entire trip to clockwise instead of counter-clockwise. While waiting for revised plans we observed a convoy of 'red necks' arriving along with several large dogs

Overland Cruisering 23

running wild, baby in the front seat held by Mum and young children riding shotgun on the back of a tray. Laurie did a great job of re-plotting the tracks, so off we headed back the way we came and then further north. We weren't disappointed as the scenery was just wonderful and the dry tracks offered some great 4WDing experiences. At Mt Wombargo on the Limestone Road, we were captivated by the eucalyptus forest and fresh undergrowth following fires some years ago. After turning onto the Cobberas Track, we camped at the Playgrounds up at 1,300M alongside the Rams Head creek and enjoyed a great time around the camp fire, learning more about each other and the anticipation of the coming days travels.

Sunday started off well on the Cobberas Track with numerous trees across the tracks causing us to divert around them with great caution. It was exciting to review the intended track, by checking out underlying rocks and stump obstacles and then doing the drive around the fallen tree.

Silveradoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bull bar managed to take on a tree with a slight bump, but otherwise all got around safely.

Arriving at Suggan Buggan River for morning tea it was becoming obvious that we would have some wet weather for camp setup that night. During the entire ramble through the forest, radio communications within the convoy were put to great use, discussing a wide range of topics from DA training content, first aid, Laurie's medical mishaps, trips, snatching, tyre pressures, 4WDing techniques, etc, etc, all very

24 Overland Cruisering

entertaining and educational.

Each day tail end Charlie was changed, giving different vehicles the chance to take up the rear and keep us all together.

Amongst our entourage was our youngest traveller, Alex, grandson to Drifter. Alex provided great entertainment to all with his radio quiz show. Somehow this 9 year old managed to read books, take a sleep and occasionally get 'bored' during some of the most difficult and challenging climbs and descents on the trip. His first 4WD trip, he definitely had a great exposure to the many joys and wonders of getting out in the bush - well done Grandpa!

Unfortunately the weatherman didn't disappoint and the rain started in as we arrived at camp alongside the Snowy River. Heidi and Rhino took to the water, allowing themselves to be dragged by the strong current to get to the other side.

Their plan worked well as they then walked back up the other side for quite a distance, before using the current to bring them back to their starting point. Some of us had visions of reclaiming them downstream at McKillop's Bridge on Monday but alas, their strategy worked well and they returned safely.

Although we had a great fire for cooking, it was abandoned shortly after dinner as the weather set in and many on the trip converged upon Silverado's tent annex for some games and laughter. Silverado had learned of a sneaky little 'stick' game from Paul Hawdon on the Bush Craft and Camping activity at Yarck recently and introduced the hapless travellers to it.

Passing the sticks around 'crossed' or 'uncrossed' was just as frustrating and confusing for them as it was for us when we first encountered the game. Much laughter and fun was had by all, but the clincher was the 'Robot question' cryptic game introduced by Laurie. Please don't ask Panda what it was all about, as he tried to get everyone totally befuddled by his attempts to change the game rules.

Monday had us packing up wet tents and heading off on freshly washed tracks and clean foliage. With a pleasant change from the dust and dirt, we started to encounter some very slippery roads and different 4WD challenges, always having to ensure that Panda was going 'slowly, slowly and not too fast' in addition to him using his two ‘magic’ buttons. Upon returning to the Snowy River Road, we headed south through Ballantyne's Gap and Wombargo - the misty cloud cover creating a most amazing experience. The charred forest, fresh and vibrant under growth and the mist was simply stunning.

Tree ferns, eucalypts, proteas, flowers of all kinds. Along with the incredible array of flowers on show from whites, yellows, oranges, reds, blues, violets and the wonderful chorus of feathered voices in full song, it was one of the most enjoyable rambles ever. Heaps of photo opportunities were taken and Rhino, the trip paparazzi, snapped at anything and everything of interest, providing the much needed regular stops for other nature require-

ments! We even found a Tree Cow or Tree Possum, a most bizarre formation at the base of one of the large gums.

After turning on to McKillops Road we took in Little River Gorge, which whilst it was enveloped in deep cloud cover, cleared briefly to reveal a small river and white water down a very steep chasm indeed.

After continuing along the narrow winding McKillops Road, we finally arrived at the famous McKillops Bridge, which crosses the Snowy River. This time, with the

bridge’s help, we managed to safely cross the Snowy River.

With the Deddick Trail closed due to a landslip at the northern end, our trip leaders diverted our trip along the Deddick River Road. Along the way, the Amboyne Crossing provided a lovely place for lunch and a play in the Deddick River in between rain showers before heading off along Reeds Track for views of the Deddick River and innumerable sprays of colourful flowers and new forest growth carpeting the forest floor. It was a truly refreshing and rejuvenating drive interspersed with some challenging slippery tracks before setting up camp in the rain at Waratah Flats camp ground. Bravely, the boys managed to get a fire started in the rain and following dinner, several defiantly sat around the meagre coals to chat and laugh but eventually succumbed for an early bed. By the third day of drizzle and rain, everything was starting to get quite wet and damp but spirits remained very high as we continued to enjoy the delightful vistas on offer from the Snowy River and the national park.

Tuesday (our last day) and we awoke to the most wonderful bird songs and clear skies for a slow, dry and somewhat remorseful retreat along the Yalmy Road out of the park. The trip had provided so much enjoyment, fellowship, fresh air and laughter all around that each one was disappointed it was over. Following our debriefing in Orbost, we cheered the work of Heidi and Laurie on keeping us safe on the trip and yet managing to make it so enjoyable. We experienced a complete breadth of 4WDing experiences from dry, dusty and sandy tracks to slippery and muddy. Steep climbs and descents (some on the double black scale!) and gentle, flat meandering, grass covered rutted tracks.

Hotel Lima, aka Zebra, even took tracks they had never been on before so everyone got something new from the experience. All in all, this truly was a wonderful ramble through the Snowy River National Park alongside the beautiful Snowy River.

Mark & Lydia Emerson (2667)

Overland Cruisering 25

YA R C K

WORKING BEE

24th & 25th October, 2015 This was another great Yarck weekend both weather-wise and with 25 willing participants: Mark, Lydia & Claire Emerson, Colin & Chris Low, Ted Gray, Eamonn King, Roger Brydson, Jan Chivers and Ken Hildebrand, Brian Stewart, Tony Swinden, Lawrence Thoms and Michelle Baille over from New Zealand on holiday, Neil Chambers, Trajco Vilarov, Michael Bourke, Gary Holt, Heather Cale, Leanda Berryman and Greg West, Paul Langenberg, Jake Langenberg and Lou, Bill Motschall, Sue Bland.

Friday evening and already 15 members settling in. One of the first things to do was unload the old Land Rover that Ken had picked up for the DA team to use for recovery demonstrations. There were 2 major projects to work on.

1. Preparation for the concrete track drainage with Greg in control. Mark and Lawrence worked on digging and cutting and laying bricks and concrete to the drain outlet – they got the dirtiest. Gary had his excavator and tools required for cutting concrete and digging trenches, made the job so much easier, thanks. We are on track to pour concrete in November. Ken and Ted headed into Alexandra to get the steel mesh and some other items that were needed.

2. Upgrading of wiring and timers for the

26 Overland Cruisering

path lights that Michael and Trajco have put considerable time into recently. There will be a switch at the top of the steps for the path lights.

The retaining wall near the men’s toilet was completed by Paul and Jake. Tony had a team out bringing in firewood but at the chainsaw training weekend and a dead tree at the top of the camping area was taken down and removed. 8 trailer loads – well done. Colin had his group at the Bush Hut to stand the corner posts for the verandah and concrete them in.

The ladies were very busy at the Memorial Garden re-staking, weeding and generally tidying the area. It is a peaceful place to sit and take in the ever changing view.

The Stitch ‘n Bitch group banner was delivered on Saturday. It really is a work of art, and after much discussion it was mounted on the centre panel on the NE wall below the Honour Board. This involved relocating the John Whitney winning photos.

Regular maintenance items were done, water was pumped and the concrete tank is currently holding 85,000 litres that is 85% which is good as we approach summer.

Now is the time to think FIRE SAFETY – every care must be taken as this will be a long, dry summer. Snakes have been sighted so be alert.

NOVEMBER 21st & 22nd is the Monster Maintenance & Construction weekend.

BE THERE. See separate list for items to be tackled. A great amount was achieved with plenty of socializing during the day and at happy hour.

Brian Stewart (340) YARCK MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR

TRADING POST FOR SALE CUB Camper Trailer with many extras, 2008 model: $27,000 Hard floor, heavy duty suspension with rain sock absorbers on each side; Disc brakes with electric over hydraulic control Treg coupling; Hot water service gas/ electric with mixing unit for both shower and kitchen; 2 gas bayonets for appliances; Portable toilet with its own storage area; Reading lights beside bed; Large fully enclosed annex and shade cover over van; Twin AGM batteries with charger; Large storage box on the front and on top.

CAMPING EQUIPMENT Generator Kawasaki 1Kva, very little use.

Very quiet & less than 12 months old $300; Stihl chainsaw in excellent condition with easy start - $300; Double bed swag – little use - $50; Gas heater still in box - $60; Hayman Reece anti sway coupling for medium size caravan - $100: 30 second tent RV 3, older style green tent - $200.

Contact: Annie McGennisken Mobile: 0418 120 374 Email: amcgennisken@gmail.com

Overland Cruisering 5

The third ARB Off Road Icon is the 5th generation Toyota HiLux. It follows the Toyota 40 Series and the Nissan GQ Patrol.

The fifth generation HiLux was chosen as it was the last HiLux to be designed with live axle front suspension.

September 1988 marked the introduction of the fifth generation HiLux with revised mechanicals built for power, sturdiness and comfort.

This model was produced with a longer wheelbase option and its onepiece cargo box walls eliminated the rust prone seams that were found in earlier models. It received a minor

facelift in 1991, which included a grille change and the new Toyota emblem that has been recently adopted.

Toyota HiLux stats: â&#x20AC;˘ Nine years in production, from 19881997. â&#x20AC;˘ 4x4 variants in the fifth gen were available with 2.4L petrol and 2.8L diesel engines only.

Overland Cruisering 25

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

miles.ppm@bigpond.com

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

28 Overland Cruisering

Overland Cruisering 27

Part 4 Jan

9/3/15

9:06 PM

Page 5

Huge ran for SUV’s AWD’s & 4x4’s 9735 0188

Visit our website: www.widetread.net.au

LILYDALE 32 Main Street

Mud-Te T rrain T/ T /A

All-Te T rrain T/A T

Savage your way through the wilderness with BFGoodrich Mud T rrain T/AKM tyres. With these tyres Te you can go way out of bounds offroad and still play dirty. A proven race winner, their DiggerLugzTM shoulder blocks can handle any deep mud, dirt and sand.

Eats rocks and dirt All fun, all action, all the time, BF Goodrich All-Terr T ain T/A KO K tyres are the ultimate in on/off road tyres. Rocky or smooth, like their name says, they can handle anything on any terrain.

9758 9288

FERNTREE GULLY 1158 Burwood Highway

Mud Terrain T/A / KM2 Inspired by the BF Goodrich Tires KrawlerTM T/R ® KX has a footprint made to to dominate almost anything in its path Linear flex zones allow the tyre to wrap aroung obsticale for unnatural amounts of traction. Smart design gives it excellent mud-clearing ability and low road noise. The MudT rrain T/A KM2 features a 3-ply Te T iGuard carcass wth a single-strand Tr bead for smoother ride and uniformity.

Quality Snow Chains

WRANGLER AT/R

WRANGLER MT/R

ROADGRIPPER

GRANDTREK AT3

GRANDTREK TG32

The all-terrain specialist tyre capable of handling all conditions - on or off road.

Tough, durable and long T lasting, outstanding in extreme conditions.

Perfect for drivers who spend as much time off the road as they do on it.

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*