February 2014 Tlccv magazine

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

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INSIDE > Aberfeldy Adventure Trip Report > Part 2. Madigan Line Trip Report > Oxfam Christmas tree delivery > Omeo New Year Trip Report > Mirimbah Magic Trip Report

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

February 2014

Guest 4WD service centre has been established since 1961 with extensive expe operating 4WD tours to some of Australia’s roughest and remotest areas. As well as general servicing and vehicle modifications, we pride ourselves on pre-trip preparation and suspension modifications to ensure customers have a trouble free 4WD adventure.

Extensive showroom

With decades and millions of kilometres of 4WD experience, we only stock the best quality accessories in our new showroom - at the best prices.

Services • 4WD service and tuning • Pre-trip inspection and advice • Suspension modification and kits • Transmission and diff repair • Pre-purchase inspection • Clutch and brake repair • 4WD tyres and wheel alignment • Dual and triple battery kits • Turbo & intercooler kits Products • Engel & Waeco 12 volt fridge freezers • Piranha off road distributors • ARB accessories • TJM accessories • Kaymar step bars and wheel carriers • Black widow storage systems • Cooper and BF Goodrich Tyres • Roof Racks • Rhino Racks • Long range fuel tanks • Electronic parking aids • Tyre repair kits • T-Van Camper trailer hire • Air compressors • 4WD maps and books • Shower units - hot and cold • Optima batteries • Lightforce, IPF, Cibie & Hella lights • HID head and drive lights • Recovery kits • 4WD tours • Safari snorkels • GME UHF radio and antennae • GPS and EPIRB • In car TV/DVD and Sat navigation

194 Grange Rd, Fairfield, Victoria 3078 Ph: (03) 9497 3899 Fax: (03) 9497 3155 email: info@guest4wd.com.au website: www.guest4wd.com.au

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

FEBRUARY 2014 CONTENTS V VOOL LUUMME E 4 41 2 .

NNoo .. 16

Club Information

1

Committee 2013-2014

2

President’s Report

3

2014 Cruiserkhana Update

3

Over the Next Hill

5

Yarck Bushfire Plan

8

Calendar/Coming Events

9

News from Toyota

11

Christmas Party

15

Aberfeldy Adventure Trip Report

19

Mirimbah Magic Trip Report

22

Oxfam Christmas Tree Deliveries

25

Omeo Trip Report

27

Part 2 Madigan Line Trip Report

29

Latest ARB Products

28

TLCCV Business Directory

32

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

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 Club’s Driver Awareness course.

RECOGNISED CLUB RADIO CHANNEL: 15 UHF

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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

INSIDE > Aberfeldy Adventure Trip Report > Part 2. Madigan Line Trip Report > Oxfam Christmas tree delivery > Omeo New Year Trip Report > Mirimbah Magic Trip Report

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

February 2014

Main photo Aberfeldy Adventure

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

2013 - 2014

President Ian Ross president1@tlccv.com.au

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

Brian Tanner

Vice President Eric Bishop president2@tlccv.com.au

Yarck Management Brian Stewart yarckmanage@tlccv.com.au

Bruce Fullard

Marketing/Public Relations Coordinator

marketing@tlccv.com.au

Emergency Response Coordinator

Secretary Sandra Tanner secretary1@tlccv.com.au

Assistant Secretary Alan McMeekin secretary2@tlccv.com.au

Treasurer Matt Parrott

treasurer1@tlccv.com.au

Magazine Distribution Russell & Lesley Edwards finerprint@bigpond.com

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

Committee Liz Mills

committee1@tlccv.com.au Committee Russell Edwards

committee2@tlccv.com.au editor1@tlccv.com.au

Magazine Editor Sandra Tanner: Advertising Sandra Tanner

advertising@tlccv.com.au

clubshop@tlccv.com.au

Sergeant-At-Arms Russell Edwards finerprint@bigpond.com

technical@tlccv.com.au

Training Eric Bishop training@tlccv.com.au • Club training courses co-ordinator Special Events

Assistant Treasurer Adriano Denni treasurer2@tlccv.com.au

tlccrg@tlccv.com.au

Social Coordinator Helen & Rebecca social@tlccv.com.au * Book for participation in social events Visitor Greeters Carol & Greg Edmunds

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

Cruiserkhana enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au

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

GEELONG BRANCH

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

webmaster@tlccv.com.au

President Matt McPhee

geelong@tlccv.com.au

Vice President Matt Lilley Secretary Jennie Harvie

secretary1@tlccv.com.au

Social Judith Williams

Excursion Visits Coordinator excursions@tlccv.com.au

Activities Coordinator activities@tlccv.com.au Ian Ross

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.

A R E Y O U R M E M B E R S H I P D E TA I L S C U R R E N T ?

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

REPORT

PRESIDENT’S REPORTI PS

i all, I sincerely hope that you all had a lovely Christmas and took the opportunity to get away as I certainly did! The weather of late has been particularly warm and we now all need to be extremely vigilant about fires and/or emergency brushfire plans just in case. Please remember, DO NOT go to Yarck if it is a total fire ban day.

Although I have been away there has been a lot going on in the club. Cruiserkana is getting on with the running of this now famous club event. I hear that they now have 60 entrants, which is their maximum quota, but assistance is still required. And the prize pool sounds incredible!

Unfortunately, Jenny Johnson has decided to resign from the position of Club merchandise sales, so we need someone to take over that position. We also require someone to take over Special Events.

There is a lot to be gained from your involvement in the Club, and you will get to meet so many other members.

H

U P D AT E

Graham Cahill who runs our Club Shop is desperately looking for helpers at Club meetings. If you can held him out, please don’t hesitate to approach Graham at a meeting or send him an email.

For those who missed out on the Terrain Tamer visit, there is going to be a visit to ARB in Kilsyth. It is on excursions such as these that we are able to learn so very much.

I would like to give a special mention to Dulcie Watts who has taken on the role of coordinator for the West Gippsland Relic, Mining & Heritage Protection projects. At tonight’s meeting Rudi Paoletti will be coming along to have a short chat to us to fill us all in in as to what it is about. Please provide your assistance to Dulcie and the group with this special project.

I also hear that congratulations are in order to Tony & Barbara Bryant who are now the proud grandparents of a healthy baby boy.

I would like to thank Vice President, Eric for stepping in and chairing the January General meeting and the Executive

Committee meeting whilst I have been away. It seems that the work for the committee never ceases even with Christmas.

Let's try and keep Tony Middleditch busy this year with plenty of trips to be run, and on that issue please make sure that if you are running a trip, you must get all of the details to Tony for approval, otherwise club insurance may not cover the participants.

Last minute or private trips (some of which are advertised on Facebook) may not be covered by the Association insurance. If you are in doubt please ask Trip Convenor, Tony. it is great news to note that the Geelong branch has gained momentum with a further two new members. Keep up the good work guys.

Well that's all for this month, stay safe and enjoy this warm spell that we are experiencing!

Ian Ross (1409) PRESIDENT

2014 CRUISERKHANA

COME AND SUPPORT CRUISERKHANA This intrepid band of Club members have been slaving away since the 2013 Cruiserkhana to bring you and the wider four-wheel drive community a bigger and better Cruiserkhana for 2014. With monthly meetings and a huge workload, this is no easy task, but it’s also a lot of fun.

The event not only brings four-wheel drivers from all over the state together but showcases the Club and the Yarck property in the wider community.

This year the event is held from 21st to 23rd March with the introduction of a new night event and an increased role for navigators and the introduction of a new competition area to decrease traffic congestion.

At the time of writing, entries were filling

fast and will have closed by the time of magazine publication, but we need all the help we can get for marshalling and catering. Please contact any of the organisers or email tlccv@cruiserkhana with your offer of help or phone 0418 120 374. Free camping and entry and a nominal cost for the meal. Get to know other Club members and have a great weekend.

Angela Di Lallo (225) on behalf of the Cruiserkhana sub committee

CRUISERKHANA MERCHANDISEE All Cruiserkhana merchandise will be on sale at General meetings or can be purchased by separate arrangement.

Classy breathable Polo shirts and T-shirts at $35 each ($30 for kids sizes), hats at $18 and fantastic jackets at $50. Limited stocks ready to sell. Now is the time to get ready for Cruiserkhana 2014.

Special: A discount of $5 off per item if you put your name down as a marshal.

ALSO The official video of the 2013 Cruiserkhana can be purchased (needs to be pre-ordered) for $10 and $15 if posted.

Further information can be obtained from Angela at tlccv@cruiserkhana.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 on www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1process_content.cfm?main=9&page=2.

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

DAVIES HIGH PLAINS ADVENTURE Saturday 8th - Monday 10th March, 2014 (Labour Day weekend) Corryong or Khancoban (TBA) Saturday 8:30 am 8 vehicles Medium to hard - depending on weather conditions Full tank from Corryong / Khancoban 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.

Caravan Park on Friday night (fees apply). Saturday & Sunday night bush camping.

Situated in the far NE of Victoria, we will take in the views from Mt Pinnibar to Mt Kosciuszko. We will cross the mighty Murray River before climbing up onto Davies Plain. We will visit Davies Hut & camp on the picturesque Buckwong or Limestone Creek.

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

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

SANDS OF WYPERFELD & VIC/SA BORDER TRACK - Trip full, waiting list only Friday 18th - Monday 21st April, 2014 (Easter weekend) Lake Hindmarsh Friday 8:30 am 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 National Park via Lake Albacutya, circling the Big Desert via Ross Springs. We will then travel through the ‘Disputed Country’ before crossing into SA & headingn down the Vic/SA Border Track.

We will experience the border sand dunes & some interesting bog holes before finishing in Nhill.

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

Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email : trips@zebra400.com AVON RIVER ADVENTURE - Trip full, waiting list only Friday 25th - Sunday 27th April, 2014 (Anzac long weekend) Huggetts Lane, near Heyfield.

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

Full tank from Heyfield 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 - pit toilets Thursday night - no facilities on Friday & Saturday night.

4WD the Avon River to the edge of the Avon Wilderness, camping on the river’s edge. For those that wish to MTB with Heidi some interesting terrain to ride on Friday morning. The Avon River will be refreshing at the end of the day Overland Cruisering 5

TERRAIN TAMER parts are proudly designed and developed in Melbourne by a team with decades of engineering experience.They are produced in partnership with the world’s leading manufacturers, such as this modified input gear for the LandCruiser that we manufacture in Japan. Talk fluent 4WD with us on 1300 888 444 or visit terraintamer.com

YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS.

CALENDAR

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

Trip Leader:

Saturday will see us heading west to take in the spectacular views from Ben Cruachan & McMillans Lookout then heading down to camp on Macalister River. Sunday we will climb up to Mt Useful before exiting the tracks near Walhalla.

Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email : trips@zebra400.com VISIT TO WANDARRAH - (Nissan Club property approx 200 kms from Melbourne) Friday 2nd - Sunday 4th May, 2014 BP Servo, cnr Sands Rd and Princes Freeway, Longwarry.

Friday 2nd: 6:45 pm for 7:00 pm departure.

10 vehicles Medium - weather dependant Full tanks from home.

15 UHF Vehicle in sound mechanical condition. Basic recovery gear.

Camping at the Nissan Club property for two nigthts, which can accommodate tents, camper trailers, caravans.

Leave the BP servo under the guidance of a Nissan Club leader, arrive Wandarrah & settle in. Day trip for Saturday, lunch on the track, arriving back for happy hour. Sunday: short trip, lunch on the track, return to Wandarrah for pack-up and early afternoon leave for home. All members need to bring own food and drink for the weekend.

Wandarrah has hot showers & toilets, but NO DRINKING WATER. Garry Cooper. Mobile: 0418 543 008. Email: gac001@bigpond.com

Overland Cruisering 7

YA R C K BUSHFIRE PLAN AT YARCK 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

EXCURSIONS Factory Tour of ARB Wednesday 19th March A unique opportunity to see how the wide range of ARB protection equipment and accessories are designed and manufactured. This is a really interesting tour, that is limited to just 25 members.

Meet at ARBs Kilsyth National Headquarters on Wednesday evening 19th March at 7.30pm.

12-14 Garden Street, Kilsyth 3137 To book your spot email Russell Edwards at: committee2@tlccv.com.au

BUSHFIRE PLAN 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 of the Yarck Hilton are: Lat Long Lat = South – 37 deg 2 min 54 sec Long = East – 145 deg 35 min 11 sec UTM Zone 55H Easting – 374295 Northing - 5898825 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.

HELP WANTED CAN YOU HELP? Club Shop urgently requires some members to assist with sales at the General Meetings each month.

If you can spare some time in assisting, please do not hesitate to speak to Graham at the General Meeting and offer some assistance.

It would be greatly appreciated.

eNews – Are you receiving your copy of TLCCV Weekend Wrap?

Make sure you include your email address on your membership renewal form.

Alternatively you can send an email to the Membership Officer (Barb) at membership@tlccv.org.au with your updated details.

Weekend Wrap is produced by Laurie Miles (1058) and Garry Cooper (1219).

Items for Weekend Wrap can be sent to info@tlccv.org.au

Overland Cruisering 8

CALENDAR

February 20th – 23rd February 22nd February 22nd & 23rd March March March March

1st & 2nd 8th – 10th 11th 15th & 16th

March 22nd & 23rd March 28th – 30th April 8th April 18th – 21st April 18th April 26th & 27th April 25th – 27th May 2nd – 4th May 13th May May 24th & 25th May 30th & 31st

SOCIAL

COMING TRIPS Jamieson to Walhalla – the interesting way!

Rock ‘N Roll Night at Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Davies High Plains Adventure Yarck Management and DA Theory Maintenance & Construction C/K set-up Cruiserkhana 2014 DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory Sands of Wyperfeld & Vic/SA Border Track Good Friday – Easter DA Practical weekend Avon River Adventure Visit to Wandarrah (Nissan FWD Club property) Yarck Management and DA Theory * RIOS Brazilian Theatre Restaurant, Richmond – Expressions of Interest Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend

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.

June 10th June 14th June 21st & 22nd June 28th & 29th July 8th July 26th July 26th & 27th August 9th August 12th August 30th & 31st September 9th September September 27th & 28th October 14th October 25th November 1st & 2nd November 11th November 15th

November 29th & 30th

Yarck Management and DA Theory Lower Plenty Hotel Pub Night Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory Christmas in July lunch at Fergussons Winery, Yarra Valley DA Practical weekend Chocolate Indulgence Tour Yarck Management and DA Theory DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory *Blues Train Evening – Expressions of Interest DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory Halloween Night at Yarck DA Practical weekend Yarck Management and DA Theory Living Legends (home of retired champion racehorses), Greenvale Picnic and Tour DA Practical weekend

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSE TUESDAY 18TH February 2014 FOR THE FOLLOWING EVENTS

1. RIOS BRAZILIAN THEATRE RESTAURANT, RICHMOND – MAY 2014 RIOS is a Brazilian carnival restaurant with an exciting evening of food, entertainment and dancing. $20 deposit per seat is required at the time of booking. When definite numbers are known, a booking will be made for a Saturday evening in May 2014.

For further information see: www.riosmelbourne.com.

2. BLUES TRAIN EVENING – SEPTEMBER 2014 Blues Train Evening consists of a meal at the historic Queenscliff Railway Station followed by a musical journey on a moving steam train. Full payment is required at time of booking. When definite numbers are known, a booking will be made for a Saturday evening in September 2014.

Discounts apply for group bookings of 20 or more. For further information see: www.thebluestrain.com.au

We need sufficient numbers to make these events happen. Please register your interest as soon as possible by contacting us: Email

social@tlccv.com.au

In Person:

at Club meeting in February.

SHOW AND TELL

F W D G AT H E R I N G

FORTHCOMING SHOW & TELL’S

The 10th Australian 4WD Gathering will be held at Dungog NSW in April, 2014.

Registration fee is Adults $85, children under 16 $25. Powered sites $60. Two meals are included.

Members interested in attending and travelling in convoy should contact John Turbill who will be running a trip from 14th April to 4th May. For details email John on johnturbill@bigpond.com For details on the gathering - including registration forms - visit www.4wdgathering.org.au

MARCH Revive & Servive My name is James Azzam and I will be your guest speaker for the month of March.

My question to you is: “are you First Aid ready?” I encourage you all to look through your First Aid kit, see what is missing and what has expired, and you will most likely be shocked by what you find.

I will be talking to you about Outback First Aid and treatment of common injuries when you are far away from any help. I will give you some First Aid tips and show you some life-saving tools. Everyone has the

ability to make a difference. On the day I will have a sale of First Aid products. You may like to bring along your First Aid kit to replenish any missing items. I look forward to meeting you all soon.

This will be a very informative presentation.

Don’t miss the chance to refresh your skills or learn something new.

Overland Cruisering 9

NEWS

L AT E S T F R O M T O Y O TA

N E W T O Y O TA K L U G E R I M P R O V E S S A F E T Y Improved driving comfort and safety headline improvements to the next generation Kluger, which arrives in local showrooms in March.

Toyota engineers have including a new double-wishbone rear suspension system, which they claim will provide a more dynamic driving experience.

The platform, suspension and electric power steering have been fine-tuned in

pleasure.

Every third-generation Kluger will have a comprehensive array of safety equipment including seven airbags, a reversing camera, vehicle stability and traction control, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, hill-start assist control and four-wheel disc brakes.

Top-of-the-line versions will feature a pre-collision system with dynamic radar

to aid driving dynamics.

Dynamic Torque Control continually monitors and controls torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an electro-magnetically controlled coupling in the rear differential.

It enables up to half the available torque to be directed to the rear wheels to promote sure-footed traction. The system automatically engages front-wheel drive under normal driving conditions to help improve fuel consumption.

Built in Toyota's Indiana plant in the United States, new Kluger will be powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine driven through a new six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission that helps improve fuel economy.

NEW YEAR HILUX

unison to ensure the seven-seat Kluger hugs the road more precisely and communicates more directly to the driver.

The result is improved handling and traction, particularly on rough surfaces and when cornering, adding to ride comfort and safety.

The layout of the rear suspension also ensures more cabin space, particularly in the third row and cargo areas, with shock absorbers placed relatively low and coil springs located under the floor.

An increase in mounting rigidity for the more conventional front MacPherson strut suspension also contributes to improved steering response and driver

cruise control, lane departure alert and automatic high beam headlights.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the new Kluger underscored Toyota's commitment to greater driver enjoyment.

"New Kluger is the latest vehicle to embrace Toyota's commitment to producing vehicles with progressive styling, a more refined interior and with handling and ride comfort that rekindle the fun of driving," Mr Cramb said.

Kluger will be available in two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with the latter incorporating Dynamic Torque Control

Australia's favourite ute Toyota HiLux has marked the new year in style by recording its 800,000th sale in this country.

When fireworks erupted to welcome 2014, Toyota's figures showed HiLux had clicked over to 799,738 sales since the nameplate was introduced to Australia in 1971.

HiLux has been Australia's leading commercial vehicle for the past 16 years in a row and the top-selling four-wheel drive vehicle for the past nine.

It is the only ute to have topped the monthly national sales charts - a feat it achieved twice last year - which helped it claim overall third place in 2013 with 39,931 sales.

More than 440,000 HiLux 4x4 variants have been bought locally since 1980 while the 4x2 total is close to 360,000 vehicles.

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NEWS

L AT E S T F R O M T O Y O TA

oyota's HiLux has notched up its ninth straight year as Australia's best-selling four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle, according to national sales figures.

The tough workhorse led the way in 2013 with customers buying 29,344 HiLux 4WD variants, more than 7,500 sales ahead of its nearest rival.

In doing so, HiLux established a new Australian record for 4WD sales in a single year, eclipsing the previous mark it set in 2012.

HiLux began its run as Australia's bestselling 4WD in 2005 and has just completed its 16th consecutive year as the country's most prolific seller among all commercial vehicles, including SUVs. Last year, HiLux 4WD and 2WD deliveries totalled 39,931 combined, making HiLux the third biggest-selling vehicle on the local market.

It has topped Australia's monthly sales charts on 13 occasions, including twice last year. It is the only vehicle of its type to have achieved that distinction.

The popularity of HiLux in 2013 was a significant factor in total Australian sales of light-commercial vehicles (LCVs) passing 200,000 for the first time.

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T O Y O TA HILUX: NINE YEARS A U S T R A L I A ' S B E S T- S E L L I N G 4 W D The final tally was a record 204,566 vehicles, an increase of 3.5 per cent.

Toyota remained the dominant LCV market leader with 56,938 sales, outselling the combined totals of its two nearest rivals.

HiLux 4x2 was the best-selling vehicle in its segment with 10,587 sales - more than 4,500 ahead of any other vehicle.

GLOBAL LANDCRUISER CHIEF SEEKS AUSSIE INPUT he global chief engineer for all Toyota LandCruiser vehicles has urged Australian owners to provide their input for the company's future 4WD models.

Japan-based Sadayoshi Koyari, who has visited Australia more than 20 times, met over 200 LandCruiser owners to discuss their passion for the renowned off-road family of vehicles.

The special event, organised by the Toyota LandCruiser Club of Australia (TLCC), brought together owners of LandCruisers produced over more than 40 years.

Owners, including representatives of LandCruiser clubs across Australia, drove to the event at a club property near Canberra in everything from the iconic FJ40 to the current 200 series, 70 series and Prado.

"Toyota's chief engineers are always trying to listen to the customer's voice as much as possible," Mr Koyari said.

"A key part of my visit is to gather feedback

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HILUX IN DAKAR

for the future from end-users and to reflect their requirements in improvements we make," he said.

"Customers have so much experience to contribute because they use their vehicles every day - whether it's driving their family around the city, going to work on construction sites, or heading off-road to remote locations.

"It was great to drive with them over some rough terrain, listening to their advice on how Toyota can make the LandCruiser family even better. oyota's HiLux has again achieved success at the world's most punishing motorsport competition, the Dakar Rally.

The toughness of HiLux, its drivers and team was put to the test over 9200 kilometres and 13 days of rugged South American terrain.

Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz piloted their HiLux to victory in the 13th and 14th (final) stages, achieving a class victory for the event and earning them fourth place overall in the car category.

Their HiLux, which competed in the Petrol 4x4 Improved Cross-Country class, is

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"There were some great ideas that we will definitely evaluate - and I look forward to receiving even more suggestions from Australian customers on future trips."

TLCC (Sydney) president Andrew Boyd said his club's members and all those attending regarded the global LandCruiser chief engineer as part of their extended family.

"We live and breathe LandCruiser, so it's amazing that we can meet Koyari-san and share our ideas with the man who can make things happen," Mr Boyd said.

"Listening to the customer has always been a great Toyota strength. It's not just a marketing slogan; this event shows it really happens."

Mr Koyari is a 28-year Toyota veteran who has been chief engineer for the LandCruiser 200 series, 70 series and Lexus LX since 2007. In 2010, he added Prado and Lexus GX to his portfolio.

modified from standard with a five-litre V8 engine.

The bespoke unit produces 310kW and 500Nm of torque at a relaxed engine speed of just 2000rpm - useful when negotiating sand dunes and water crossings.

The HiLux also has numerous suspension, body, interior and driveline modifications over the standard vehicle, as well as a new addition for 2014 - a custom air conditioning system to help the drivers remain focused at critical moments.

Placing second and third in the same class were two more Toyotas.

Overland Cruisering 13

NEWS

L AT E S T F R O M T O Y O TA

T O Y O TA M E A N S B U S I N E S S W I T H H I L U X U P D AT E S oyota has enhanced the credentials of its best-selling HiLux workhorse by decking out popular Double Cab variants with new safety and convenience technologies.

HiLux now offers customers 11 Double Cabs in an extensive range that spans 22 variants.

The latest updates to the Double Cabs are particularly significant because all 4x4 HiLux variants now attract the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating.

A new five-speed automatic transmission improves fuel economy and emissions on 4x4 turbo-diesel HiLux by more than six per cent to 8.7 litres/100km and 230 grams/km.

HiLux Double Cabs also benefit from a host of other improvements, including new display audio systems and fresh interior colours and materials.

Top-of-the-line SR5 versions gain a reversing camera and a satellite navigation system with SUNA_ Live Traffic updates as standard - all viewed on the display audio screen.

The updates follow another podium position for HiLux in 2013 as the third bestselling vehicle of any type in Australia.

It has topped the monthly national sales charts on many occasions, including May and June last year - a feat never achieved by any other commercial vehicle.

HiLux has been the country's best-selling four-wheel drive vehicle since 2005 and number one in commercial-vehicle sales since 1998, taking the mantle from LandCruiser.

Australians have embraced HiLux, buying more than 800,000 since the first model arrived in 1971.

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14 Overland Cruisering

The five-star safety rating for 4x4 HiLux is achieved with enhancements including the standard fitment of stability and traction control, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. Stability control was previously a $1,500 option on the 4x4 midrange SR grade.

A front passenger seat-belt reminder is also part of the package on 4x4 vehicles and, for Double Cabs, a three-point seatbelt for the centre-rear seating position.

The display audios feature a 6.1-inch screen, auxiliary and USB inputs, iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, plus audio control switches on the steering wheel hub.

For HiLux SR and SR5, the steering-wheel controls operate a multi-information display (MID), telephone and voice recognition.

The MID, viewed on a liquid crystal display, shows current and average fuel economy, average vehicle speed, cruising range, outside temperature, a compass and time.

This feature is new to SR, as are the Optitron dials for speed, engine revs and fuel tank/coolant temperature.

Retail sales of the upgraded Double Cabs began in mid-January, joining the similarly equipped Single and Extra Cabs that

began arriving late last year.

As part of the changes, HiLux 4X4 SR5 Extra Cab was upgraded to a 17" alloy wheel (from 15" alloy). SR 4x4 variants have gained a 225/70 17-inch all-terrain tyre.

Double and Extra Cab versions are distinguished by a black interior while Single Cab's cabin features black and grey tones.

Price changes with the expanded feature list are limited to between 1.2 and just under 3.0 percent. The entry price for the HiLux range remains from $18,990, with 4x2 Double Cabs now priced from $27,490 and 4x4 Double Cabs from $40,990.

Leather-accented seats are newly offered as a $1,500+ option on 4x4 SR5 turbodiesel Double Cab pick-ups, and includes power adjustment for the driver's seat.

The full HiLux range retains its three body styles, three equipment levels, three engines and three transmissions driving either the rear or all four wheels.

All SR5 variants are pick-ups, while midrange SR and rugged Workmate grades are also available in cab-chassis specification.

In addition to the 11 Double Cabs there are six Single Cabs and five Extra Cabs, with the total of 22 variants split evenly between 4x2 and 4x4.

The five Workmate variants are exclusive to the 4x2 range. There are 12 SR variants - five 4x2 and seven 4x4. Four of the five SR5 variants are 4x4 equipped.

Fourteen models in the range are fitted with the most popular HiLux engine - the 126kW/343Nm common-rail diesel with electronic direct injection and a variablevane turbocharger.

Three diesel variants gain the fuel-economy benefit of a five-speed automatic transmission in lieu of the previous four-speed unit. The remaining 11 diesels are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Customers wanting the 175kW/376Nm V6 petrol engine can choose from four vehicles - three Double Cabs and an Extra Cab, all with a five-speed automatic transmission.

A further four vehicles are fitted with a 116kW/240Nm 2.7-litre four-cylinder petrol engine - Workmate Double and Single Cabs with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

Every new HiLux is covered by the cappedprice Toyota Service Advantage at a maximum of $170 per service.

NEW DOUBLE CAB PRICES - HILUX 4X4 CAB-CHASSIS 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel SR manual $40,990 + $500 PICK-UP 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel SR manual $42,490 + $500 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel SR auto $45,240 + $750 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel SR5 manual $51,740 + $750 3.0-litre 4-cyl turbo-diesel SR5 auto $54,490 + $1,000 4.0-litre V6 petrol SR5 automatic $54,490 + $1,000 Options: Premium paint - all grades: $550 (no change) Air-conditioning - Workmate, SR: $2,051 including fit fee (no change) Leather-accented seats - 4x4 SR5 turbo-diesel Double Cab pick-ups: $1,500 (new)

SOCIAL

2 0 1 3 T L C C V F A M I LY C H R I S T M A S P A R T Y

Some of the action at the Christmas Party.

Photos by John Nazloomian

hastingscamping@gmail.com Overland Cruisering 15

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TRIPS

ABERFELDY ADVENTURE - DECEMBER, 2013

Trip Leaders: Laurie & Heidi Miles Convoy: Gerard Jarvis Andrew Bock & Tina Stefanos Andrew Broome Aaron, Oliver (7), & Archer (4) Hester plus Peter & Tom (8) Forrest Norman Lingwood Reg Schlipalius & Lennex Clappers (8) Michael Schuettke

Crossing the Aberfeldy & climbing Trigg Track: With our 4WD packed for a great weekend, my grandson & I headed for the Rawson Caravan Park. After setting up our tent, other convoy members soon joined us. No sooner had we set up, than the heavens opened up and treated us with a big downpour, so our safe option was to head for the Rawson Bistro for dinner (great meal) and to pay our camp fees – the boys ate free, as the Bistro had a special deal on Friday night’s.

After an enjoyable meal and some banter

Zebra Gerry Gee Bocky AB

80 Series TD 80 Series Petrol 105 Series TD 200 Series TD

OB1 LC Drifter Michael

Prado TD 100 Series Diesel 100 Series TD 100 Series TD

back at the Park we settled in for a good sleep in readiness for the next day’s activities.

Early Saturday morning (8:00 am), Heidi ventured off on her solo MTB expedition with the hope that our convoy would catch up to her just before lunch time. At 9:00 am our trip leader, Laurie left the Park with seven enthusiastic participants in tow including Gerry Gee our “professional” photographer and Michael as tail end Charlie.

We headed down the Tyers-Walhalla Road

turning left onto the Cooper’s Creek Road and stopping at the old Coopers Creek Pub where we “aired down” before crossing the Thomson River to visit the relics of the old Coopers Creek Copper Mine. The young ones, Lennex, Tom, Oliver & Archer were itching to be let loose and this was an ideal spot for the boys to release some energy. With some energy consumed, we headed back across the Thomson River and watched other 4WDs driving through the river as we enjoyed a relaxing morning tea break.

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We continued north on the Coopers Creek Road and joined the Walhalla Road, then just past the bridge over the Thomson River we turned left onto the Mormon Town Track. This track is quite steep, but was fairly easy in the dry. At the top of the track, we drove through areas of bushfire regrowth and areas of minimal regrowth where the dead sticks of mountain ash were the only highlight on the horizon.

Every now and then there were gullies where the fire had not penetrated and these were prolific with small trees and tree ferns, which was wonderful considering the desolation on some of the hills.

We followed the Mormon Town Track to the intersection with the Walhalla-Woods Point Road where we found Heidi & MTB waiting to be picked up. Her fitness amazed us as we had driven some quite steep hills.

It was just a short drive to our lunch spot on the Aberfeldy River. Again the boys were in their element – Lennex & Tom went swimming and skimmed stones on the water whilst eating their lunches while Oliver & Archer did some fossicking along the river bank – this also appeared to be a great fishing spot.

After lunch we headed further north before turning onto Trigg Track and the anticipation of the twelve switchbacks. As we drove down the steep hill towards the Aberfeldy River we could see the other side of the Trigg Track snaking its way up the hill. We crossed the Aberfeldy River then tackled the climb and the twelve switchbacks. To do five or seven point turns at each switchback on the side of a steep hill needs full concentration, but needless to say we all made it without any issues. Whilst negotiating the switchbacks, Gerry also found time to stop and take some great pics.

At the top of Trigg Track we turned left onto One Spec Track and headed north before turning left onto Williamson Spur Track. Our next challenge was to descend S (Steep) track. There were many detours as we headed down this steep track having to avoid fallen trees. All drivers took seriously the skill required to make the detours without body damage to their vehicles. At the bottom of S Track, we turned onto Donnelly Creek Track, heading for O’Tooles campground for happy hour and our overnight campsite. O’Tooles is a great campground and can be readily accessed by 2WD off

20 Overland Cruisering

the Donnelly’s Creek Track. Happy hour was enjoyed by all especially the boys who had a paddock of space to explore.

After dinner, a chat around the campfire and a roundup of the boys, we all hit the sack – a great day of 4WDing.

Reg Schlipalius (1825)

Climbing from O’Tooles & many other great tracks: After steady rain and accompanying thunder overnight, the prospect of wet tracks promised to add an extra level of excitement to our planned day's travel on the tracks around Aberfeldy.

Upon leaving our campsite at O'Toole's Flat, this notion was quickly dispelled as we commenced our ascent on White Star Track with plumes of dust that were raised.

The rain overnight was not sufficient to penetrate more than a mere millimetre into the track surface.

Over the next seven hours until the trip's end at the picnic ground at the Thomson Dam, we progressively and uneventfully, travelled the following tracks: White Star, Mt Useful Spur Road, McGuire, Toomstar, Toombon, Jorgensens, Donnelly Creek Road, Flats Track, Spur Track, One Speck and finally Fultons Creek Track, before emerging onto Thomson Valley Road. I'm happy to report that all the tracks were in good condition, presumably having been graded since the January, 2013 bushfire.

The only factor stopping them attaining an excellent rating were the number of small detours around trees fallen onto the tracks since this event.

The ease of travel for the day was a disappointment for a number of our group who would have liked more drama and at least a recovery or two. This was not to be. Even the steep descent to and the equally steep ascent from McGuires Creek on Toomstar Track was taken with ease. We heard stories from our trip leader of their 5 hour recovery of 7 vehicles on Toomstar Track on a previous trip. Of course, the track was a little wetter on that trip.

The biggest challenge for the day was the "double black" rock steps on Flats Track just before the intersection with Williamson Track. Trip leader Laurie suggested it was only for six "diff locked vehicles" in the group with the other two to take the alternate track around this obstacle. It did not present a problem for the former vehicles but Aaron in OB1, an “unlocked" Prado TD, was up for a challenge and keen to try it with mate Peter navigating and their three boys in the rear seat cheering them along.

The Prado did the climb with minimum hassle or tyre spin - so much so that the group of onlookers at the top questioned that

Aaron must have had some type of traction assistance on board the Prado – wrong!.....just good driving technique and judicious use of application of the left foot brake and right foot accelerator to minimize tyre spin...well done Aaron.

It was interesting travelling the Aberfeldy area and viewing the recovery after the January fires earlier in the year. Without the tree canopy and dense undergrowth the views especially down the valleys and gorges were spectacular. It was very easy to look around and see across the valleys

and the tracks we were to travel and other adjoining tracks in the area. Usually the forest would have hidden these. It was a stark contrast to view the fire blackened trees with their lush new growth of different greens, and the forest floor covering of wildflowers in their varying colours...... white, yellow, pink, red and mauve (sorry I don't know their botanical names)).

On the south side of Mt Useful under the Mountain Ash ghost gums, there was profuse new fern growth from the multitude of tree ferns (Dicksonia Antartica).

Throughout the trip it was great to see the enjoyment the four youngsters (Lennex, Oliver, Archer & Tom) all under 10 gained from the trip. During our breaks and at our campsites they had no trouble amusing themselves in the natural environment without the need for any of our modern day amusements i.e. computer games, DVDs, Nintendos, playground equipment, etc (oops.......the latter is topical given the discussion at a recent club meeting re the development of the area outside the Hilton at Yarck).

Many thanks to our trip leaders, Heidi & Laurie. This weekend’s outing was one of the most professional, better organised and led 4WD outings that I've participated in over the past 35-odd years that I've owned 4WDs, and that includes paid tagalong trips as well. Thanks again Laurie & Heidi. Also thanks to the rest of our group who helped make this such an enjoyable outing.

Andrew Browne (2664)

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TRIPS

MIRIMBAH MAGIC (Laurie & Heidi’s 75th TLCCV Club trip)

Trip Leaders: Laurie & Heidi Miles Participants: Gerard Jarvis Michael & Michelle Butler Gordon Chessum Monica & Phil Coleman Andreas & Erica Faulwetter Matthew Lilley Trajco Villarov Laurie & Linda Wilson OziExplorer, Mt Stirling & Craigs Hut: Having camped at Buttercup Creek Friday night the majority of the group woke to the sounds of a running stream and the promise of a day filled with fantastic weather.

After breakfast Butlers & Toxic arrived to complete our convoy.

Laurie & Heidi gave us two options: join Heidi on the MTB and ride up to Mt Stirling, or listen to an information session with Laurie on OziExplorer, SPOT, Satellite Communications and HF Radio.

Gerry was the only person brave enough to attempt to keep up with Heidi and together they left camp, heading for Howqua Gap hut then up to the summit of Mt Stirling.

Those of us, perhaps a little less eager for the physical challenge, directed our attention to Laurie who delivered a very informative presentation which was well received by both the group and the black helicopter who buzzed over us several times checking for fires.

After our OziExplorer session and a spot of morning tea, we loaded up and headed to Howqua Gap hut where we met up for lunch with the MTB team. There was a rumour going around the convoy that maybe one of the MTB party had caught the shuttle bus from Mirimbah to the top of Mt Buller. However it remains just that, a rumour (and full credit for the effort put in by the two people on MTB’s too).

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Zebra Gerry Gee Butlers Toxic Coleman Chintags Halfy Trajco Wilson

80 Series TD 80 Series Petrol Prado 150 Series TD Troopy Diesel 200 Series TD 100 Series Petrol/Gas 80 Series Petrol/Gas 200 Series TD HiLux Diesel

After lunch, we continued up to the top of Mt Stirling where we saw snow….. albeit less than a square meter but snow nonetheless! After a short walk to the summit, we continued on to Craigs Hut for the views and photos.

It was time to head back for camp enjoying the drive along the Circuit Road as we

went. After arriving at camp we enjoyed happy hour around the fire and reflected on the day’s events. The conversations continued as the night sky came out in all its brilliance including a few shooting stars to cap off what was a fantastic day.

Matthew Lilley (2598) Lake William Hovel, Pineapple Flat & Mt No. 3: Our convoy woke to another beautiful blue sky, although I had woken up several times in the night and mistaken the nearby rushing Buttercup Creek for rain.

After breakfast and a partial pack-up by most people, we were on the road by 9:00 am. Not long after we had left Buttercup Creek Road, we had our first stop of the day at Tomohawk Hut.

We all got out and had a look around - my youngest son was even very excited to find a large huntsman inside.

Travelling along the Buckland Spur Track, we found many puddles to drive through to keep the kids entertained. At one stage we came to an overhanging bridge and my Erica (my co-driver) had to get out and make sure there was enough clearance for our 4WD and rooftop tent above.

We soon started the decline and could see fantastic views of Lake William Hovell ahead. After an enjoyable drive down a reasonably steep and rocky track, with great views of the surrounding mountains, we stopped on the shore of Lake William Hovell for morning tea. The surface of the lake was a sparkling blue on this perfect summer morning.

Just below the weir wall we crossed the King River and began our ascent up onto the Wobonga Plateau Track. Similar to the trip down, this was a pleasant drive up with some steep and sometimes rocky sections.

The next part of the drive was probably our highlight as we drove along the ridgeline of the mountain and had magical views of the surrounding alps. Erica was a bit nervous at one stage as one particularly narrow section of the ridgeline had a sheer drop on either side.

Mt Cobbler was our constant companion in the distance along this section of the trip.

Although we always seemed to be travelling in the same direction, every time Mt Cobbler came back into sight, we seemed to be looking at it from a different angle.

We made our way down to Pineapple Flat for lunch by the river, however my kids decided to eat in the car because of the

flies. I finally bribed the kids out of the car with icy poles, plus showing them where we would soon be driving through the King River again.

Once we had crossed the river again, we proceeded to Westons track where we began the ascent to Mt No 3. This was apparently a relatively new road and so was a new experience for everyone. By this time of the afternoon it was getting quite overcast and we were getting slightly concerned about our luggage which was sitting exposed to the elements back at camp.

At the top of Mt No 3 we threaded through the bare ghost gums and were rewarded with views back towards Lake Eildon and the Paps. We then zig-zagged our way

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT! • As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind - every part of this rocket was supplied by the lowest bidder.~ John Glenn • America is the only country where a significant proportion of the population believes that professional wrestling is real but the moon landing was faked.~ David Letterman • I'm not a paranoid, deranged millionaire. God dammit, I'm a billionaire.~ Howard Hughes • After the game, the King and the pawn go into the same box.~ Italian proverb • Men are like linoleum floors. Lay 'em right and you can walk all over them for thirty years.~ Betsy Salkind • The only reason they say 'Women and children first' is to test the strength of the lifeboats.~ Jean Kerr • When a man opens a car door for his wife, it's either a new car or a new wife.~ Prince Philip • A computer once beat me at chess, but it was no match for me at kickboxing.~ Emo Philips.

down again to Carters Road and were soon back at camp. After a final pack-up and farewell, we all made our way back home.

Overall, we had a fantastic first trip with the club. What a great way to spend a weekend; meeting friendly new people (I should also mention that my high school librarian was one of the other participants - what a coincidence!), enjoying some great 4WDing, perfect weather and magical scenery.

Thanks again to Laurie & Heidi for an informative and well run trip and congratulations for reaching your 75th trip.

Andreas Faulwetter (2625)

• Wood burns faster when you have to cut and chop it yourself.~ Harrison Ford • The best cure for sea sickness, is to sit under a tree.~ Spike Milligan • Lawyers believe a man is innocent until proven broke.~ Robin Hall?

• Kill one man and you're a murderer, kill a million and you're a conqueror.~ Jean Rostand.

• Having more money doesn't make you happier. I have 50 million dollars but I was just as happy as when I had 48 million.~ Arnold Schwarzenegger.

• We are here on earth to do good unto others. What the others are here for, I have no idea.~ WH Auden • The first piece of luggage on the carousel never belongs to anyone.?~ George Roberts?

• If God had intended us to fly he would have made it easier to get to the airport.~ Jonathan Winters

Overland Cruisering 23

24 Overland Cruisering

TRIPS

OXFAM CHRISTMAS TREE DELIVERIES

Saturday Deliveries: Garry Cooper and Bernie O’Reilly, Tony Blair and Peter Burchall, Kevin Rogers, Harold & Glenda Ross, Judith Theobald and Keren Walton, Andrew Browne, Tony & Barbara Bryant, Neil Chambers, Andrew Poon and Jenny Stephenson.

Sunday Deliveries: Slawko & Rebecca, Gunther Scheffel and Robert Karkut, David and Dennis Manz, Alan & Gail McMeekin

Note: Eight questions were asked of each deliverer.

1. The name of your co-driver/navigator 2. How many trees you delivered?

3. Where you delivered to?

4. How long did it take?

5. Comments from people good and bad, if any?

6. Any funny instances along the way?

7. How many times you did a “U” turn?

8. Did you get lost?

Their responses are as follows: Hi Garry, was good fun again like last year.

My passenger was hung over Robert Karkut, he enjoyed his recovery from a big night out. We delivered 16 Christmas trees mainly in the Yarraville area. Only took us about 2.5 hours to finish. All recipients were very friendly and their kids mega excited. Did not get lost thanks to our clever Tom Tom GPS. We celebrated together with Slawko and Rebecca in a Moonee Ponds Café after the job was done. We’ll do it again next year,.

Gunther Scheffel (2465)

Christmas trees (that’s all that could be squeezed safely into the back of the V8 Ute) to Footscray, Yarraville and Seddon areas, we caught up with another two TLCCV helpers (Rebecca and Slawko) at Moonee Ponds shopping strip for a big breakfast and coffee to finish the morning off.

The organizer said that once people give it a go, they generally come back – that’s so true because it is so well organized and a truly great experience to be part of.

Gunther and I are looking forward to next year’s run.

Robert Karkut (2148) Hi Garry, driver was Peter Burchall and I was navigator. We were supposed to deliver 17 trees, but only delivered 16 as someone could not count, when the elastic bands were put on. Fortunately when we returned to Blackburn there was still a delivery to be made to the area in question so the missed address was placed in their bundle. We delivered to Abbotsford, Clifton Hill and North Fitzroy.

It was 2 hours from Blackburn to Blackburn, but actual delivery was less than 1 hour from arrival in the actual area.

All the people we found at home were very complementary.

No real funny instances although we did come across another lot of people

delivering the trees parked on the side of the road in the area having breakfast/brunch chowing down on hamburgers.

We only did 2 U-turns, which were necessary to get to our next destination the shortest way. Garry, with me navigating, you don’t expect us to get lost, do you?

It’s always a good experience and if you start early, you finish early and have the rest of the day free to do other things.

Tony Blair (2307) Hi Garry, just me and my trusty GPS delivering 18 trees in South Melbourne, Albert and Middle Park areas. Yes, U-turns I had a few, road works and one way streets all added to the mix of a fun morning, Thank you for organizing it Garry, and the loan of your trailer.

Neil Chambers (2523) Hi Garry, Dennis Manz as navigator, loader, unloader. Only delivered 14 trees this year in the Coburg/Brunswick area.

We helped unload the semi from 7:15 am then loaded our trees and were finished delivering by 9:35 am - even had time to grab a coffee.

Great comments from several who came to the door. One young family invited us into their lounge to position the tree and see the joy of their 2-year old.

Hi Garry as usual – 2nd time for Gunther and I – we had a great rewarding morning meeting up with truly thankful and appreciative customers when delivering their Christmas trees.

The best part is the excitement of the children running to their front door or looking out of their windows (even the adults) when knocking on their doors and handing over their Christmas trees – truly a cheerful experience.

Gunther and I spent the first half hour unloading a semi-trailer load of Christmas trees with a bunch of eager volunteers sorting them out into three piles from small, medium to large.

After the speedy delivery run of 16

Overland Cruisering 25

We found two Gordon Streets in the area, but phoned the client who gave us directions. No U-turns this time, but time to enjoy each person’s front gardens, verandas and buckets of water. Cannot remember if we got lost!!

David Manz (2269) All went well, organization really great, delivery slips on track.

No co-driver – solo.

17 trees. Chelsea Heights to Frankston.

Arrived Blackburn at 7:00 am, last delivery in Frankston at 10:00 am.

All happy, no negative comments. No funny instances along the way.

Delivery slips all in order, run really streamlined, one U-turn only to retrace steps but only 1.2 km.

Did not get lost. iPad GPS Navigator system better than wife or co-driver/navigator, no arguments.

Will do again next year, very enjoyable and satisfying especially as Oxfam had good profit margin.

Andrew Browne Hi Garry, The name of your co-driver/navigator? Nil How many trees you delivered? 18 Where you delivered to? East Kew, Kew and Hawthorn East (close to where I live) How long did it take? Approx. 6 hrs home – home.

Comments from people good and bad if any? Maybe 1/3 recipients home, comments mostly good.

Any funny instances along the way? My GPS had a migraine – glad I had a Melways. Lost some of the decorations within 1km of home.

How many times you did a “U” turn? Lots – the worst was in a very narrow street with lots of parked cars – not easy with a trailer.

Did you get lost? Only a few times and temporarily.

Kevin Rogers (2536) Hi Garry, my friend, Keren Walton and I have delivered Christmas trees for Oxfam for the past 5 or 6 years now I think. We enjoy doing it and find it especially rewarding when we hear excited little children stampeding through the house in their rush to get to the front door to take delivery of the tree. We delivered 17 trees this year to

26 Overland Cruisering

North Fitzroy, Brunswick, Thornbury and Preston and didn’t get lost once, thanks to the skill of my navigator. However, we did have to do a couple of U-turns and a little reversing, but only because of deliveries in dead-end streets on the Merri Creek Reserve. Fortunately we were able to do so without too much angst (phew!!) The

whole process from the time I collected my navigator took about 5 hours, however as we set off at 6:30 am that did include a break for a catch-up chat and a delicious cooked breakfast in a lovely little café en route. Of course we sat at a kerbside table where we could keep a close eye on our important trailer-load of trees. In all the years we have been doing this, we have never experienced any negative feedback, only appreciation and positive comments from adults and children alike. It really is a great way to start the build-up to the festive season. We thoroughly recommend the experience. Kind regardsJudith Theobald (2139) Hi Garry, left home 7:00 am for the Carlton North depot. The journey didn’t take long – not much traffic at that time on a Sunday.

Our Prado was decorated with green and gold tinsel which turned a few heads as we drove along. Slawko assisted with unloading trees from semi-trailer and placed them, according to size on small, medium and large stacks. While he was doing this, Rebecca greeted Brian Moran and received allocation of delivery slips and Oxfam cards to hand to customers on delivery. She tallied up how many trees of each size were required. Our area covered Melway maps 17 and 29.

Trees delivered? 15 (2 small, 9 medium, 4 large) Delivered to? Fawkner, Coburg North, Pascoe Vale, Brunswick, Ascot Vale and Flemington.

How Long? Left depot 9:00 am and delivered last tree at 11:00 am.

Comments from customers? “Thank you for volunteering to deliver the trees.” “We appreciate you giving up your Sunday to do this for Oxfam.” “Oxfam and your fourwheel drive Club are doing a great job, we can’t thank you enough.”

Funny? Delivered a tree to a mum and her 3-year old daughter. They had nothing to put the tree in so we suggested she use the bucket that was in the front garden and put some soil in it. The little girl wanted to go outside with mummy, but mummy said she couldn’t go out as she had no knickers on. Her daughter promptly lifted up her top and said: “Yes, I have mummy!”

How many U-turns? There were four streets that ran both left and right when we came to the intersection so it was a guess

as to which way the house numbers went.

You wouldn’t believe it but each time we pulled the wrong rein.

Did we get lost? This was our fifth year doing deliveries and have worked out a system which eliminates the risk of getting lost or going back to an area we have already been.

Garry, thanks again for all your efforts on behalf of our Club in organizing this annual event. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to repeating the exercise in a little under twelve months time.

Slawko and Rebecca (2270)

TRIPS Trip Leader: Participants:

OMEO - 29th DEC 2013 to 2nd JAN 2014 Adam, Olivia, Amelia, Owen & Angus Takacs Peter, Karen, Jayden & Sasha Crump Michael Winand and Elaine Leishman Alan & Gail McMeekin Michael & Michelle Butler Ian Wells, Susan, Conner & Lachlan Griffin Steve, Tom & Jacqueline de Mamiel

n Sunday 29th December, we left Melbourne heading to Omeo. We stayed at the Golden Age Hotel in

O

Omeo.

Early on Monday morning we met some trip members who had also stayed in Omeo. At 9:00 am we had the trip briefing before driving about 45 minutes to camp. Once we arrived at the site we set up camp and set about having a good time swimming in the river, relaxing and fishing.

The next morning was warm – perfect for swimming and boogie boarding down the river. So that is what we did.

Overland Cruisering 27

That night was New Year’s Eve so we had a big cook-up. People brought port, goat and there was also beef and lamb. We roasted the meat and the veggies – potatoes, pumpkin, peas and beans. Others brought garnishes like gravy, apple sauce and tzatsiki. An amazing fruitcake with custard and cream concluded the feast.

The kids were lighting sparklers, blowing up glow-in-the-dark balloons and cracking glow sticks. I didn’t quite make it to midnight!

On New Year’s Day, after a lazy start, we all went to the Blue Duck Inn for lunch. They had a tasty menu that I’m sure everyone enjoyed.

The trip concluded the following morning.

Everyone packed up, said goodbye and – just like that – a great time was over.

Everyone found the trip relaxing and fun.

Good job Adam – it was a great trip.

By Jacqueline de Mamiel (age 9) (2416)

28 Overland Cruisering

TRIPS

PART 2. MADIGAN LINE - AUGUST 2013

Camp 25 Birdsville Pub fter dinner, and general discussion on national politics, it was decided unanimously that with this site being fairly open we needed to establish a toileting system. Nicki cleverly placed a white flag on a stick to indicate use of territory for private business. However, at next morning's toilet time the majority of males in the group thought they would be smart by going elsewhere and then were surprised to see a sea of meerkats periscoping in all directions. Why can’t they follow a simple rule?

20 August: We broke camp at 8.29, and slowly continued our journey north. We were still some 33km from the Madigan.

When the rest of us stopped for morning tea – supplemented with Nicki's fruitcake – Don continued slowly on ahead. On reaching the Madigan Line, Don and Ken spent some time underneath the truck investigating the possibility of a repair, but this was not possible as an essential component had gone missing. Don made phone calls and discovered that the part was available in Brisbane and could be freighted to Birdsville for when we arrived. As the car was still driveable, we would continue on, albeit slowly.

We proceeded to Camp 9 where we took the obligatory photos. By Camp 9 camels under Madigan's party, led by Bejah, were in poor condition and we could relate to the

A

situation. We reached Camp 10 where we were surprised to find that two weeks before a group with T-vans had preceded us. They were probably responsible for scalloping the track rather badly in places.

In virtually the next swale after Camp 10 was Camp 11 – where a change of vegetation saw Madigan's camels salivating and excited at the prospect of a feed. We took a lay day here to allow the camels the luxury of putting on a little more condition.

However, we proceeded on a further 10km to the best camp of the trip, with gidgees (trees) as the main feature and a sunset and full moon rise that provided a wonderful photo opportunity.

Around the camp fire we enjoyed gluhwein and chocolate as part of our fundraising for the Flying Docs. We were looking forward to a lay day tomorrow to prepare for a communal feast and the big push to Birdsville.

21 August: No meerkat sightings. We enjoyed a day of relaxation as had Madigan at Camp 11. Some walkers went north of the campsite bird spotting. They saw what they thought were honeyeaters and wood swallows. Spinifex was removed from under vehicles. A private screening of vehicle retrievals was held at Ken and Di's.

There were no tyres to repair as no further punctures had been experienced. It was a day at leisure, taking stock and reading up on further travels.

In the evening, we enjoyed a communal meal of roast lamb and beef, roast veggies with entrée, and hot steam puddings with cream, thanks, to Di. 22 August: We broke camp at 9am. While the boys drove a few 100 metres north to see Madigan’s Claypan, the girls walked ahead to check tracks and scat. They found evidence of small marsupials, dingoes and lizards. And while camel tracks abound, actual camels were as elusive as the bunyip.

We proceeded on over high sand ridges in the morning and lesser ones in the afternoon. Visited Camps 12, 13 and 14 in swales sparsely vegetated because of recent fires.

We reached Camp 15 on the Hay River Track by late afternoon. This area was less affected by fire, with Mallee trees abounding along with considerable dead cane grass. We made camp a few hundred metres south of the Camp 15 marker, and spent an enjoyable evening sitting around a small fire.

23 August: We departed at 9am to another magnificent day on the Madigan Line, spotting a large raptor nest unoccupied as were many others down the track. Nicki found no indigenous tracks but spotted a large angry introduced species with arms folded and hole dug, in a meerkat moment at morning tea time.

Camp 14

Overland Cruisering 29

We continued down the Hay River Track to Camp 16 and the blaze tree. The road was rough in patches with quartz outcrops. At Camp 16, we left the Hay River Track and headed east on a mogully track with some challenging dunes. Vegetation was sparse in the fire affected swales. We followed the tracks of a dingo adult and cub, and a camel that eventually lead to the sighting of a herd of camels. The dunes were close together until we crossed into Queensland where the swales became wider. At Camp 17 we had a pleasant lunch amongst the gidgee trees.

We continued now in a south easterly direction – on the way undertaking a fruitless search for Mudloo Well. Two solitary male camels were sighted before we reached a suitable campsite on a gidgee flat a little way before Camp 18.

The fire was prepared by the women while most men, except Alby, sat about nibbling and enjoying beer o’clock.

24 August: Early risers noted dingo and pup tracks around our campsite. We broke camp at 9.20 Queensland time. On our way out we drove over the previous night's fire which had received a good raking by the women of the camp. Once on track, we proceeded across dunes, passed Camp 18. We were finding an increasing number of gidgee trees in the swales except at Camp 19 which was sparse of vegetation.

Having departed the Simpson Desert National Park, we entered Adria Downs Station, travelling south east across swales, dunes, saltpans and claypans.

Sea Heath- Frankenia and Groundsell were identified in this region. At morning tea there was much discussion of newly identified scat and whether it was horse or donkey. We were convinced it was donkey but wild horses were later spotted - glossy big specimens. We crossed the remains of the rabbit proof fence, and ultimately reached Camp 20 at Kuddaree Waterhole.

There was a lot less water here than when several of us were here last year.

Carcasses of dead cattle were also lying around. It was a sad yet beautiful sight as this was our first sighting of surface water in more than 10 days. We saw a dingo, water birds, a murder of crows and a peregrine falcon.

We headed south via Camp 21 to the ruins of Annandale Homestead beside a very dry Eyre Creek. It was here that we made

Camp 22

30 Overland Cruisering

Group at Geosurveys Hill camp for the night.

25 August: As Birdsville was being visited by a Variety Bash Group today, we decided to remain a second night at Annandale rather than compete for camping space at the Caravan Park. We had a peaceful morning, burnt toast, slept in, some of us washed. Harry nursed sore body parts following a spectacular leap, two half turns and a double pike over the rusty trailer returning from an undercover mission.

Karma effected. David sniffed out the plot.

Tables turned. All forgiven.

We visited the Annandale ruins and located the graves of the station’s children who died early in the 20th century. Don told us the tragic story of how a mother left alone for weeks with the men out mustering and food running out became depressed; and how she poisoned her two children and was later found wandering in the desert.

Madigan visited the abandoned homestead in 1939 and was surprised to find no roof but a houseful of furniture. The furniture has now gone but the station yards and various items of machinery remain along with many other relics of interest.

Julie spotted a broken green oval bottom bottle, once containing eucalyptus oil.

We explored the locality for birdlife and found pigeons and swallows but no colourful budgies as Madigan had done. Very dry conditions, brilliant near full moon for several days. No wind.

26 August: We had an easy drive into Birdsville on our last day, visiting a memorial to Charles Sturt who came looking for the Inland Sea in 1845 – as well as Camp 22 – on our way. We were unable to visit Camps 23 and 24 as access is not normally permitted by the station owner.

Everyone got up and over Big Red, with Alby, Harry and Alan driving over the hard

climb. Everyone enjoyed the same view of the lagoon on the other side, as Madigan had done, describing the reflection of the trees and the grazing stock.

We completed our trip with a meal in the Birdsville Pub, particularly noting the Camp 25 marker above the door between the two bars.

Overall, the Madigan track was easier than expected with only one minor tyre problem.

Don did break his front suspension but still managed to drive out to have his vehicle repaired in Birdsville before heading home.

The trip out to Geosurvey Hill was the most challenging. The campsites along the way were attractive and all characterised by the presence of dingo and small reptile tracks.

A few camels were sighted but not as many as we expected. Bird life was sparse but wild flowers abundant. The temperature was in the mid-twenties. Apart from our first day, there was little or no wind. Most days were sunny and clear. This was a fabulous experience, much of it due to Don’s extensive research, Nicki and Sue’s knowledge of flora and fauna, Harry’s impersonation of a camel, and in part – it must be said – to Kenny G’s terrible jokes. Lastly, several fundraising nights were enjoyed by all: pancakes, gluhwein, cheese and champers organised by Nicki and Sue and raising $366 for the RFDS.

P.S. The distance travelled from Mt Dare to Birdsville was – on average – 870 km, there being a variation in this figure of +/- 30km between vehicles due to differences in actual route driven, tyre diameters, air pressure, wheel slip in sand, etc.

Fuel consumption – on average – for the diesel vehicles was 20.9lt/100km (4.8km/lt) and for the sole petrol vehicle 25.5lt/100km (3.9km/lt). Fuel usage varied +/- 2lt/100km from vehicle to vehicle because of vehicle differences (ie turbo fitment, automatic/manual gearbox, number of gears), as well as the variations in distance travelled, and – dare it be said – driving style.

Tyre pressures used were typically 2530psi, higher than normal for sand travel, but not to the extent of making hill climbs difficult. Most of our failures in hill climbs were due to poor gear or range selection before the climb, or simply because we took it too casually while enjoying the journey. The trip was nowhere near as difficult as we originally thought it might be. Tyre problems were negligible.

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The ARB full extension fridge slide, which also features an additional storage area behind the fridge, can be locked into place when fully extended, allowing easy access even when the vehicle is on an extreme angle. Dual locking positions allow for locking into place during travelling, while adjustable anti-vibration pads reduce rattles on off road adventures.

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The ARB full extension fridge slide will also suit any similar sized chest fridges. For more information or to find your closest ARB stockist, head to www.arb.com.au.

COMING EVENT A factory tour of ARB is planned for 19th March 2014.

Details in this magazine.

Limited places available.

ARB KID’S SKYDOME SWAGS Get the kids started early in the great outdoors with the all new Fourby and Ariel SkyDome swags. With spacious and comfortable sleeping quarters, the swags offer an excellent camping option for families with young adventurers who want to experience all the excitement of their very own swag.

At three-quarters the full length of the original SkyDome swag, the children’s version measures 750mmW x 1800mmL and is ideal for children up to 12 years. The swags are available in either Fourby blue or Ariel purple, with a print of the popular characters on the side and foot window awning for extra appeal.

Exceptional in wet conditions, the swag features a heavy duty 820gsm PVC base with welded seams for waterproofing. A

heavy duty 450gsm water and rot proofed canvas top further protects the swag, while also providing heat reflection in warmer conditions. A waterproof base extends 75mm up the side of the swag to prevent water leakage from the ground, while a rain gutter is incorporated into the main entry door to inhibit water ingress.

With a comfortable 62mm corrugated foam mattress, the kids are sure to nod off quickly after those long days exploring, with the cover machine washable for extra convenience. YKK zips and fitted nylon mosquito net feature on all doors and windows, keeping those pesky creepy crawlies out, while four internal pockets plus mount hooks mean that the kids have a place for all the important knick-knacks like drink bottles and torches.

The freestanding design of the SkyDome allows for set up on most flat surfaces like sand, rock, concrete or the backyard, while the aluminium bows create a dome shape, helping to eliminate the enclosed feeling of a traditional swag and allowing the kids to move around more freely.

Reflective guy ropes and pegs are also included with the swag for use in unfavourable weather conditions. www.arb.com.au

Overland Cruisering 31

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