March 2013 tlccv magazine

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

INSIDE INSIDE >> Tasmania’s Tasmania’s West West Coast Coast >> Driver Driver Awareness Awareness >> Tasmania’s Tasmania’s North North East East >> Cobaw State Forest Cobaw State Forest Recce Recce >> Aberfeldy Aberfeldy Adventure Adventure

A0005442c

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

March

2013

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

MARCH 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 Monday 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: $260.00 Membership: $135.00 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

2013

V VOOL LUUMME E 4 41 1 .

NNoo.. 12

Club Information

1

Committee 2012-2013

2

President’s Report

3

Calendar/Coming Events

5

Over the Next Hill

7

TLCCV Emergency Response Group

12

TLCCV 40th Anniversary heritage

13

Toyota Tundra

15

Aberfeldy Adventure

19

Cobaw State Forest Recce

23

Tasmania’s West Coast

25

Driver Awareness - February

30

New from ARB

31

Maintenance & Construction wk’end

32

Trading Post

32

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, Don Honey, Bill Dower, Alan Winch, Barrie McCarthy, Harold Ross, Sandra Tanner, Brian Stewart, Charles Norman, Ashley & Judith Williams, John Turbill, Garry Cooper.

Honorary Members: Ross McClure, Clive Blakely.

Club Auditor: Chris Rumble

March cover main pix by Adam & OliviaTackacs - convoy tackling Balfour Track in Tasmania’s west.

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

2012 - 2013

President Peter Dwyer president1@tlccv.com.au

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

Vice President Ian Ross president2@tlccv.com.au

Yarck Management Brian Stewart yarckmanage@tlccv.com.au

Secretary Sandra Tanner secretary1@tlccv.com.au

Assistant Secretary Alan McMeekin secretary2@tlccv.com.au

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

Assistant Treasurer Matt Parrott

events@tlccv.com.au Special Events Python Red (Paul) • Shows & special event co-ordinator

committee1@tlccv.com.au Committee Russell Edwards committee2@tlccv.com.au

editor1@tlccv.com.au

Magazine Editor Sandra Tanner:

advertising@tlccv.com.au

Membership Barbara Bryant membership@tlccv.com.au * Membership renewals, name badges, contact detail changes Librarian library@tlccv.com.au * Borrow videos, DVDs & books * Contributions to the Library FWDV Delegate fwdvdelegate@tlccv.com.au Tony Bryant Webmaster Laurie Miles

Emergency Response Coordinator Bruce Fullard tlccrg@tlccv.com.au Raffles & Supper Gabi & Grace Azzam Soraya Pickard Club Shop John & Liz Mills

clubshop@tlccv.com.au

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

Training Paul Hawdon training@tlccv.com.au • Club training courses co-ordinator

Committee Liz Mills

Public Relations/media Officer Garry Cooper pr@tlccv.com.au

technical@tlccv.com.au

Treasurer Marcus Kunath treasurer1@tlccv.com.au

treasurer2@tlccv.com.au

Advertising Peter Dwyer

Magazine Distribution Russell & Lesley Edwards finerprint@bigpond.com

Marketing Coordinator Brian Tanner marketing@tlccv.com.au

webmaster@tlccv.com.au

Excursion Visits Coordinator excursions@tlccv.com.au David Sheean

Social Coordinator social@tlccv.com.au John Nazloomain * Book for participation in social events Visitor Greeters Ian & Jenny Johnson Cruiserkhana enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au

GEELONG BRANCH President Brian Tanner

geelong@tlccv.com.au

Secretary Sandra Tanner

secretary1@tlccv.com.au

Geelong Trips Matt McPhee

geelongtrips@tlccv.com.au

Social Judith Williams

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 (No documents with no formatting. 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

MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE

PRESIDENT’S REPORTI PS

elcome to the new venue, the Mulgrave Country Club, where nearly 50% of the members dined before the last meeting. Don’t forget the Seniors meals, they are really good value.

Please remember to sign in at the next meeting if you have not become a member.

Good to see John Mills up and about at the January meeting after his mishap just before Christmas. Well done John in making such a great effort to get to the meeting.

The Cruiserkhana is going ahead in leaps and bounds with nearly a full house of competitors. We still need some marshals and kiosk help. If you can assist, please call Gunther.

Annie has been to the Range Rover, Nissan and LROCV Clubs promoting this great event.

Thank you to the members who supported at Wandin 4x4 Show. Our trailer certainly stands out against all others. I’m sure it

W

has been worth all the effort.

Bruce Fullard is on the job with Emergency Relief with the first meeting at Heyfield Footy Ground where showers and toilets were available. If you can help, please call Bruce. He only has 18 helpers so far.

I am led to believe the Nissan Club property at Glenmaggie (Wandarrah) suffered some damage in the recent bush fires. I hope it can be fixed up quickly.

Brad is making a frame to hold the Club banner at meetings, which will assist the Stitch ‘n Bitch girls. It should be available very soon.

Jenny Johnson still has great offers on Club apparel for a super one off special at 40% off list price. This is a bargain especially the winter jumpers.

Cheers, Peter Dwyer PRESIDENT

FIRE RESTRICTIONS ARE NOW IN FORCE AT YARCK Please take very special care when you are on the property that there are no open fires.

WANTED– CLUB SHOP OFFICER Are you interested in becoming involved in the Club?Are you interested in meeting and assisting members?

This is an opportunity for an active and energetic member to run the Club Shop on a monthly basis by selling items that are popular and/or in demand.

It is a very rewarding position, and there are always many who are willing to assist each month.

Please email John at: clubshop@tlcv.org.au

EXCURSIONS I P S V I S I T T O T E R R A I N TA M E R - A P R I L 2 0 1 3 Excursion Visit to Terrain Tamer Thursday 18th April, 2013, 6:30 pm 245 Sunshine Road, Tottenham his company is a trade and retail outlet supplying 4WD products range of recovery equipment, vehicle accessories, vehicle spare parts and overhaul repair kits.

They also have a workshop to carry out overhaul, reconditioning of vehicle major components. Research and development is also an important component of their business.

T

For our excursion we are going to be shown through their Warehouse, Showroom and Workshop.

TO REGISTER YOUR ATTENDANCE FOR THIS VISIT, PLEASE PHONE THE COMPANY DIRECT ON 9329 8200 If you have any questions about their product range or the excursion they would be happy to discuss matters with you during your phone call.

For the benefit of our any new members, I would like to offer you welcome to our Club.

Just to provide you with a brief overview of my role in the Club is to arrange excursion

visits to a number of companies of the 4WD fraternity to enable members to benefit from industry visits and to make personal contacts.

I hope to see you on the night; it will be most interesting and informative.

David Sheean (1749) EXCURSION VISITS COORDINATOR

NEW TLCCV EMAIL ADDRESSES

CRUISERKHANA SPECIAL REQUEST

In future, please note that the Club email addresses have been altered to: tlccv.com.au. This change-over process will be phased out over a period of time, allowing members to become better acquainted with the new email addresses.

Please also note that if sending articles, etc for the magazine you now put: editor1@tlccv.com.au If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our webmaster of webmaster@tlccv.com.au

Ladies and/or gentlemen who will be attending the Cruiserkhana, would you please be kind enough to make some vegetable soup (no meat please) and deliver it to Maria Denni (Cook-inCharge) on the day. Thanking you in advance and anticipation.

Overland Cruisering 3

CALENDAR March 23rd & 24th March 29th – 1st April March 29th – 1st April March 29th – 1st April April 6th & 7th April 6th – 8th April 18th April 9th April 13th & 14th April 16th April 27th & 28th May 3rd – 5th May 3rd – 5th May 14th May 21st May 25th & 26th June 1st & 2nd June 8th – 10th June 11th June 18th June 22nd June 22nd & 23rd

SOCIAL

COMING TRIPS Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend Dargo Adventure Sands of Wyperfeld NP & Vic/SA Border Tk A Big Desert Easter Trek Cruiserkhana Set-up The Chromite Mine to Walhalla Wander Visit to Terrain Tamer Yarck Management – DA Theory Cruiserkhana General Meeting DA Practical weekend at Yarck Visit to Wandarrah (Nissan FWDC) Cruiserkhana Debrief Yarck Management – DA Theory General Meeting Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend at Yarck Bairnsdale to Dargo trip Yarck Management – DA Theory General Meeting Medieval Night at Yarck Yarck Maintenance & Construction 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 29th & 30th July 9th July 16th July 20th & 21st July 27th & 28th August 10th – 31st August 13th August 24th & 25th Aug 31st & Sept 1st September 10th September 21st & 22nd September 28th & 29th October 8th October 19th & 20th October 20th October 26th & 27th November 12th November 23rd & 24th Nov. 30th & Dec. 1st

M E D I E VA L N I G H T AT YA R C K

DA Practical weekend at Yarck Yarck Management – DA Theory General Meeting Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend at Yarck Madigan Line trip Yarck Management – DA Theory Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend at Yarck Yarck Management – DA Theory Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend at Yarck Yarck Management – DA Theory Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend TLCCV Strategy & Planning day (Invitation Only) DA Practical weekend at Yarck Yarck Management – DA Theory Yarck Maintenance & Construction weekend DA Practical weekend at Yarck

SHOW & TELL ENJOY RELIVING OR EXPERIENCING A CLUB MEMBER’S TRIP The fun, driving exploits and camaraderie that a TLCCV trip brings.

Members would love to see other members slides or DVDs of their wonderful trips around Australia.

If you have been on a recent adventure and can put together a 10-15 minute presentation, please let me know.

(I am willing to help you if required).

Liz Mills. Email: cruisers@bigpond.net.au

REQUEST FOR SHOW & TELL I am seeking Club members with slide shows or DVDs of 15 minutes duration to present at Club meetings.

Our members would love to see the wonderful trips and places you have visited on your travels.

Please contact Liz Mills if you have a presentation or any ideas by emailing: committee1@tlcv.org.au

Overland Cruisering 5

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@tlcv.org.au or mobile 0418 543 536.

Seasonal Road Closures: Contact Parks Victoria on www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/1process_content.cfm?main=9&page=2.

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

Trip Leaders: MARCH/APRIL Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment: Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader: MARCH/APRIL Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment:

Overnight: Details: Trip Leaders:

THE SANDS OF WYPERFELD NP & Vic/SA BORDER TRACK - Easter weekend Friday 29th March - Monday 1st April Lake Hindmarsh 8:30 am Friday 8 vehicles Medium to hard - depending on weather conditions 140Lt capacity. Full tank from Horsham - refueling at Pinnaroo if required.

15 UHF 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 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 ‘Disputed Country’ before crossing into SA & heading down the Centre Track plus parts of the SA/Vic Border Track. We will experience the border sand dunes before finishing in Nhill.

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

Laurie & Heidi Miles. Email : trips@zebra400.com A BIG DESERT EASTER TREK Friday 29th March - Monday 1st April Rainbow Caravan Park 9:00 am on Friday 29th March 6 vehicles Medium to hard Full tank at Horsham. Refuel at Pinaroo if required. NO fuel in Rainbow on Good Friday.

15 UHF Recovery gear including snatch strap, closed recovery points front & rear, long handle shovel, air compressor for tyres, good condition off road tyres including spare, self sufficient water, gas or fuel stove preferred.

Friday in Big Desert SF; Saturday at Red Bluff; Sunday at Casuarina.

Milmed Rock track to Big Desert SF. South on the Centre and Border tracks. Red Bluff to Wirrengren Plain. Large parts of this trip are on sand. The actual route will depend on conditions. It is likely to vary due to this being a very busy time of year.

Andrew Vogan: (pavogan@bigpond.net.au) and Jim Lowe: (lowejsvc@bigpond.net.au) DARGO ADVENTURE Friday 29th March - Monday 1st April Dargo 9:00 am 6 vehicles Difficult Full tanks ex Stratford 15 UHF Vehicle in sound mechanical condition, raised suspension & diff lock/s recommended, genuine off-road tyres with minimum 50% tread (road biased tyres not acceptable), full recovery equipment, compressor & tyre gauge, water & supplies, camping equipment. No trailers, pets or firearms.

Bush camping with no facilities.

This trip will explore the Wentworth River valley east of Dargo, Billy Goat Bluff track, take in the views from the Pinnacles & explore the Moroka Hut area. Tracks will be steep & rough in sections.

Adam & Olivia Takacs: Email: adam@insightproperty.com.au

Overland Cruisering 7

APRIL APRIL 13-14 13-14 2013 2013 ana h K iser u r C UB RUISER C L C D N A L A TOYOT

A N A H K R E S 3 I 1 0 U 2 CR 4 X 4 V C C TL

2 2 DAYS DAYS OF OF EXCITING EXCITING 4X4 4X4 COMPETITION COMPETITION PLUS

4x4 TEAM CHALLENGE

• CruiserKhana is a skills based 4x4 event suitable for four-wheel drivers of all standards. More than 10 separate events!

• Applications now invited for drivers in Standard and Touring classes.

• 4x4 Club teams challenge for Perpetual Trophy. (Currently held by Range Rover Club). Nominate team of 3 from same 4x4 club.

• Entry fee includes entry, Cruiserkhana registration, camping (hot showers & toilets) and 3-course meal Saturday night.

Major sponsors

• Hot and cold food and drinks available all weekend.

• Full vehicle specification details on website, but basically as required by Cross Country Drivers Association.

Highly modified 4x4s not permitted • Major prizes on offer.

• Event held at Club property at Yarck (2 hours north of Melb.)

Enquiries: • enquiries@cruiserkhana.com.au • Phone: Angela 03 9807 9240 or Annie 0418 120 374

Entries close 22/3/2013

2013 CRUISERKHANA LATEST Entry Fees UPDATE • Full competitor Weekend List. If you want to be a competitor, you will now go on the • Competitors: $100 waitig list.

If •entering as part of a team, the same Non competitors $40 applies!

• Children under 12 $15

• Wanted: Additional marshalls are (Includes camping & Sat. night dinner.) always welcome.

Contact Annie if 5 you help. FREE • Children &can under • Spectators: The 2013 cruiserkhana is set to beVisitor: the biggest$10 and most entertainDay ing yet.

Come alongbird for a great weekends action.

Early Special Mark this weekend in your diary as 20% discount for entries ‘MUST attend.’ received 31st order your Cruiserkhana • Don’t forget toby merchandise ASAP. December 2012

View last years action at www.cruiserkhana. com.au

CALENDAR

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

Overnight: Details:

Trip Leaders: MAY Date: Meeting Place: Time: Limit: Standard: Fuel: Radio: Equipment:

THE CHROMITE MINE TO WALHALLA WANDER Saturday 6th April - Monday 8th April Heyfield 9:00 am 6 vehicles Difficult Full tanks ex Traralgon 15 UHF Vehicle in sound mechanical condition, raised suspension recommended, genuine off-road tyres with minimum 50% tread (road biased tyres not acceptable), full recovery equipment, compressor & tyre gauge, water & supplies, camping equipment. No trailers, pets or firearms. Quality hand held UHF radio & waders recommended.

Bush camping with no facilities.

An extended weekend trip after the crowds have gone home to explore the Chromite Mine east of Licola, Mt Margaret, Burgoynes track & the Deep Creek area around Walhalla. Tracks will be rough & steep in sections, finishing around Walhalla.

Adam & Olivia Takacs: Email: adam@insightproperty.com.au VISIT TO WANDARRAH (Nissan Club) Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th May Caltex Service Centre, intersection of Sands Rd and Princes Freeway, Langwarry.

6:45 pm for a prompt 7:00 pm departure.

10 vehicles Medium - weather dependant.

Full tank ex Melbourne 15 UHF Standard recovery gear (includes a compressor), tyres with good tread, vehicle in sound mechanical condition, BYO drinking water.

Overland Cruisering 9

ASK ORTO

70 SERIES AUTO CONVERSIONS

CONVERT YOUR

LANDCRUISER

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RODNEY HUDSON-DAVIES

Ever wanted a 79 Series ute with an automatic transmission?

222

WWW.4WDACTION.COM.AU

O

ne question often put to us is why doesn’t Toyota build the 79 Series LandCruisers with a heavy-duty automatic to suit tourers, tradesmen and the mining market? The theory here at Wholesale Automatic Transmissions is that costs might have played a part, as Toyota wanted to keep this series of 4WD as cheap as possible to produce. But, we’re proud to announce we’ve built the first automatic-transmission 79 Series, and WOW, it really works!

We went all-out and spared no expense or time in developing the new automatic transmission and management system for the latest 70 Series range. In fact, we’ve developed a conversion kit

for the V8 diesel 76, 78 and 79 Series LandCruisers.

We stayed with the Toyota theme and used our heavy-duty overdrive LandCruiser transmission fitted with a heavy-duty nomad valve body, billet torque convertor and stand-alone transmission management system. This set-up allows the driver to choose between automatic and manual at the touch of a button, and offers 100% engine braking on command and in any gear.

The conversion itself includes the factory Toyota bellhousing, drive plate assembly and high-output automatic transmission. There were a couple of complex problems that when solved enabled us to retain the original transfer case, crossmember, driveshafts and rear gearbox mount. They simply bolt straight back into their original position and remain completely unmodified. We even went as far as to re-trim the interior floor carpets with a fully moulded, full

thickness loop-pile carpet, thick underlay, and a separate noise-reduction layer to make the vehicle much more comfortable and quiet to drive.

The new T-bar assembly and Toyota T-bar handle have been fully re-trimmed in leather to match the LandCruiser’s interior.

We chose to have them handstitched to add that perfect overall detailed finish. The outcome has been nothing short of amazing with a vehicle that’s not only super easy to drive, but has also lowered the engine RPM at cruise by 15%. This is possible

given the automatic transmission has a much taller overdrive gear, and also returns a substantial increase in fuel economy.

It’s certainly made the latest 70 Series range of LandCruisers with automatics the best all-round heavy tow, touring and rugged modern off-road vehicle available on the market.

In the next issue of 4WD Action, we take a close look at your automatic transmission’s torque converter, and let you in on a few of our secrets including some of the better upgrades available.

CONTACTS F more information on converting your 76, For 777, 78 and 79 Series to an automatic transmisssion, you can either contact ‘Ask Orto’, a free oonline service dedicated to 4WD transmissions, oor phone Rodney and Stuart directly at W Wholesale Automatic Transmissions.

W WHOLESALE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS P PH: (03) 9762 8004 W W: www.automatictransmission.com.au

CALENDAR

Overnight: Details:

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

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

Overnight: Details:

Trip Leader:

Camping at the Nissan Club property for two nights which can accommodate tents, camper trailers & caravans. No pets please.

Leave the Caltex Servo under the guidance of a Nissan Club leader, arrive at Wandarrah & settle in. Day trip for Saturday - lunch on the track, arriving back for happy hour. Sunday a short trip, lunch on the track, return to Wandarrah for pack up & early afternoon departure for home. All members need to bring own food & drink for the weekend. Wandarrah has hot showers & toilets but NO DRINKING WATER. Garry Cooper: Email: gac001@bigpond.com

BAIRNSDALE TO DARGO Saturday 8th - Monday 10th June Deptford, a little north of Bairnsdale Saturday 8th at 10:00 am 8 vehicles Medium to hard depending on the weather Full tank from Bairnsdale 15 UHF Vehicle in good mechanical condition, you will need all terrain tyres or better, recovery gear, onboard or stand alone compressor, UHF radio fitted, food, warm & waterproof clothing.

This is a touring trip & campspites will be determined by weather, road & vehicle conditions.

Weather permitting we will proceed from Deptford along the Nicholson River, visit the Yahoo Mine. We will head up the Marthavale Rd to Baldhead Rd & then down Friday Spur Track. (Possible campsite). We will take Wayne Track to Jones Rd, Wild Horse Creek Track & Dane Track to Camms Top Place. (Another campsite). Up Murdering Spur or Dane Track & onto Dargo.

Annie McGennisken: amcgennisken@gmail.com MADIGAN LINE Saturday 10th - Saturday 31st August TBA TBA 8 vehicles. No trailers. No pets.

Difficult Depending on vehicle & route, may need to carry additional fuel for extended desert travel. Estimates available, but details to be finalised nearer time of departure.

Various - 10, 15 & 40 UHF Off-road tyres with ample tread, at least one additional spare, standard recovery equipment, compressor & tyre gauge, tyre repair equipment, vehicle spares & tools, sand flag, camping equipment, water & supplies. Further details at pre-trip meeting.

Bush camping, with some caravan parks or similar before & after the crossing.

This trip comprises a west to east crossing of the northern Simpson Desert, nominally following the route taken by Cecil Madigan in 1939, but as now limited by permit & access restrictions. In many places the track is ill-defined & travel will be hard & slow going. The travel duration for this trip is approximate. Depending on conditions, difficulties are expected to include soft sand, big dunes, spinifex, sand moguls, sharp stakes, “scratchadora� shrubs & possibly even mud if there has been any rain. Tyre damage is to be expected. Given the tough conditions & likely heavy workload for all participants, preference will be given to vehicles carrying more than one person. Note: A full day pre-trip meeting will be conducted on Saturday 6th July at which time trip participants will also be required to practice removing, repairing & replacing tyres.

Don Bryant: dbryant@bigpond.net.au

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Overland Cruisering 11

NEWS

TLCCV EMERGENCY RESPONSE GROUP

URGENT ASSISTANCE IS NEEDED 27 - 28th APRIL, 2013

The Toyota Land Cruiser Club of Australia (Victoria) Inc has once again mobilised its members to provide skills and services, as a consequence of the recent fires. In cooperatation with the local community resource centre there are several farms in the Glenmaggie area requiring urgent assistance particularly with fencing.

The next Relief Working Bee will be held on April 27-28th.

The Toyota Land Cruiser Club is prepared to assist rural land holders to re-establish their properties and is prepared to undertake a range of tasks such as removal and replacement of damaged fencing, site clearing and removal of fallen timber etc. and any other allocated tasks by agreement to assist in getting the rural area back working again.

To be part of the TLCCV Emergency Response Team please contact the co-ordinator Bruce Fullard by email: tlccrg@tlccv.com.au

12 Overland Cruisering

H E R I TA G E

CLUB 40th ANNIVERSARY

“The way we were” - A look back at our past Our first years…

In September 1973 the first edition of ‘Overland Cruisering’ was published.

‘Overland Cruisering’ - No 1. Sept 1973 Highlights of upcoming events included a driver training family picnic, weekend trip to the Ninety Mile Beach and a picnic day at Hanging Rock.

Our first club discounts were also obtained from Bay Road Motors, Eastbern Motors and Princetown Motors, along with a discount from Goodyear tyres at Coburg Goodyear.

One of the first published trip reports was a trip to Cobbler Lake on Sept 2-3, 1973.

Fourteen LandCruisers departed from Mansfield and encountered many muddy sections of track, with the trip leader, John Whitney becoming bogged.

There was also news of the arrival of a new Landcruiser The first Christmas party was held in

‘Overland Cruisering’ - May 1974

December at Club members David and Jenny Langridge’s Broadford property, with in excess of 35 vehicles and 100 members in attendance.

In the Feb magazine (1974) club president Graeme Wilson reported on an Australia Day weekend trip to the Mansfield area.

Thirteen vehicles (2 LWB and 11 SWB Cruisers) lunched at Purcell’s Hut after travelling over the Razorback Spur and on to Mt Stirling. The convoy covered 47 miles on the Saturday and had an early Sunday morning start of 8.40am.

The convoy lunched at Lovick’s Hut and travelled on to MacAlister Springs, before engaging 4WD for a hard 3 mile trek to the Vallejo Gantner Hut. An interesting muddy section added to the drive, with each Toyota making it through untroubled.

Later in the day the convoy stopped for a quick swim, before heading into Merrijig for a quick drink before heading back to Melbourne.

March 1974…. Trips this month included a weekend to the Howqua-Jamieson area, lead by John Dadd, an Easter trip to NorthEast Victoria lead by John Whitney, including a meet up with the Sydney Branch.

Driver training (winching) was held on Anzac day, while a fishing trip in search of trout was arranged for May. A report on TLCs attendance at a meeting convened to form a ‘Federation of Off Road Recreational Vehicles”, noted that ”there should be an organisation to represent our point of view and negotiate our point of view.”

Also of interest was an article published in the ‘Weekly Times’ that said, ‘although the Land Rover has traditionally been a popular rural vehicle, there appears to be a growing dissatisfaction with its construction and performance. It is tending to be

‘Overland Cruisering’ - August 1974

4

YEARS 1973 - 2013

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER CLUB OF AUSTRALIA - VICTORIA BRANCH

Our Club turns 40 this year.

Our Club has a long and varied history, and along the way we know that many members have captured magic moments on photos, slides and movies.

We would like members to submit historic memorabilia from the early days, so that firstly they can be published in Overland Cruisering for all to enjoy and reminisce; secondly, they can all be displayed at a special birthday function that will be held, and finally they can be etched into the Club’s history, and be included in a 40th celebration special memorial magazine/ booklet to be published.

We know from early magazines that there is a treasure trove of memories and photographic records out there, so we would like to ask members - especially those of long standing - to have a rummage around and find any photos or slides/movie that you might have of early club trips and events.

Take the time to pull out old photo albums, or shoeboxes full of photos and see what you can come up with.

If you have slides or photos, it would be great if they could be submitted as digital images, but if not, we can arrange to copy them for you.

All materials can be sent to the Editor, Sandra Tanner, PO Box 1778, Geelong 3220. If you have any questions regarding coping photos etc, email Sandra at secretary1@tlccv.com.au.

replaced by the Toyota Landcruiser in most districts in Australia. The differences in the two vehicles was summed up as, “The Toyota Landcruiser is mechanically sound, easy to service and has a rugged frame and body. The Land Rover is difficult to work on, it is underpowered, has weak springs and poor manoeuvrebility!”

Faults with the Landcruiser were noted as the scarcity of Toyota distributors and the poor quality of upholstery!

Our first 12 months… The May 1974 edition of Overland Cruisering contained a report by Social Secretary Jan Atkins summarising our first year of operation.

She wrote, “As you are all no doubt aware, the Club’s first year of operation is coming to an end with, I think you will all agree, same fairly concrete results and also a great deal of activities which have been organised.”

Overland Cruisering 13

those of the local members of the Police Service, for their ready assistance to the responsibility for organising relief and rescue operations.

Yours, R..Jackson, Chief Commission Vic Police.”

This issue also saw our first paid advertisement from Kevin Kearney Motor Repairs – a Toyota specialist in Ricmond.

In August 1974 the editorial of Overland Cruisering noted some words of wisdom that are just as relevant today as they were after our first year of opration.

“I believe it’s time to think back over the year and see what we have achieved, or what we haven’t achieved, by being in the club. Why did we join and more importantly why are we still in the club. We may have joined for different and individual reasons but we should remember that we are all one club and I hope we will remain as such.

“I believe that we’ll only remain as one, while people are happy with the way the club is run. Are we content to let the club go on the way it has or have we got some different ides. If you do fit into the latter category then why not do something about it. There are plenty of opportunities to make your presence felt in the organisation.

“It is your club not their club and you will find that the committee is only too willing to have additional help. Running a club of our type and size is not easy, so get out of the driver’s seat occasionally and put your ideas forward.”

Not much has changed today. We are bigger, better resourced, have achieved the aim of owning a substantial club property and have numerous members assisting in sub-committee roles. As predicted in 1974, the only way was up and we have certainly achieved that in the past 40 years.

1974 Trip Highlights June 1974 – John Atkins lead a trip into the Rubicon area. It was attended by 10 Toyotas, 1 Nissan, 1 Land Rover, 4 Haflingers, 1 6WD Pinzgaur and one four legged dog! The trip report noted that the driving was very pleasant with the only incident being when Len Gething slid off the track and became bogged.

July Weekend 1974 – MacAlister Springs (Howitt Hut trip) saw five Toyotas (four JJ 40s and one FJ55) travel via Licola to the scenic MacAlister River and over the Bennison Spur. At the Tamboritha Saddle the convoy encountered snow and chains were fittd as the going became progressively tougher. The trip was lead by Club President Graeme Wilson, who the trip reporter noted was” at the front puffing black smoke sending up a spectacular bow wave of snow, and rolling his rear end around like a brazen huzzy!”

Aug 1974 – A snow trip ventured into the

14 Overland Cruisering

Technical Topics (1974)!!!! (Words of wisdom) If you’re planning to do any work on your vehicle why not let some members know.

You can get cheap labour and they can get some experience and benefit from your knowledge (ha!)

Keep it in mind.

PS: Anyone wanting practical experience in cutting and polishing a Cruiser contact the Treasurer.

‘Overland Cruisering - Nov 1974 hills at Licola.

Sept 1974 – Coming trips included a Sunday day trip and BBQ in the Healesville area, a fishing trip to Jamison, a winching weekend around Goulburn, a slide night at Colin Dunn’s property at Craigieburn, a trip leaders training weekend and a combined trip with the Geelong FWDC in the Otways, staying at Apollo Bay Oct 1974 - A social ramble around the wineries of Rutherglen was well attended.

Cub lends a hand…. While today our Emergency response Team are doing stirling work helping our fire victims, the Club has a long history in helping out.

A letter was received from the Chief Commissioner of Police (Reg Jackson) thanking club members for helping out at Wyuna floods. (1974) It read, “My attention has been drawn to the valuable assistance rendered by yor club during the recent floods in the Kyabram area, by the supplying of food and welfare facilities to volunteer workers and to persons who were forced to evacuate their homes.

There is no doubt that the efforts of your members helped greatly to minimise the effect of the floods on the residents of the district and I wish to express to you the thanks of the Department, in particular

‘Overland Cruisering - Oct 1975

New four-wheel drives (October 1974) The editorial of Overland Cruisering noted that , “You probably noticed the release of several new four wheel drive models in the paper last month. Among the releases is a new model of the Landcruiser with padded doors, recessed door handles andno quarter vent windows and I begin to wonder why? Do you realise that since early 1972 there have now been five model changes – The dark green speeders The first of the 4 speeders The 4 speeder with orange blinkers The 4 speeder with the big blinkers The very latest ‘padded’ model.

It is also very interesting to note that the price keeps rising, the weight of the vehicle keeps dropping. Toyota hava a winner with their shape so why the need for a lighter and seemingly poorer put together vehicle – who’s worried about the size of the blinkers or the quarter vent windows – if you are, then I think you don’t need a ‘cruiser.

Certainly some changes are necessary nd long overdue – the four speed box, the dual braking circuit – but are all these new models necessary. I wonder whether Toyota are attempting to become Australia’s most popular 4WD by frequent and seemingly unimportant model changes.

What can we do? Perhaps we should all write to Thiess (Toyota) and complain – if we have a new vehicle then ensure that every little fauly is corrected under warranty by dealers and don’t take no for an answer. I wonder what Thiess would do if the 500 odd members of the ‘Cruiser clubs around the States wrote in and complained about the quality of the new ‘cruisers!

Adrian Ryan, (Editor)”.

NEWS

T O Y O TA T U N D R A Toyota’s ‘big daddy’ utility the Tundra - is in Australia.

HiLux. So what’s the story about the Tundra down under? There is little likelihood that the Tundra has been imported by Toyota, with

Eagle-eyed Toyota member Harold Ross captured these shots of the flagship US Toyota utility the Tundra on a truck on route to Perth (above). The dual cab Tundra’s were converted to right hand drive and powered by a 5.7-litre V8.

There remains an interest in heavy duty utilities in Australia, although no manufacturer is prepared to follow Ford and the demise of the F Series 250 and 350 in this market segment.

The critical mass just does not make it viable for manufacturers to introduce a heavy duty ute, despite the availability of vehicles in overseas markets.

Last year Nissan tested their US produced heavy duty utility at Werribee 4x4 Proving Ground, and despite excellent results has no plans to introduce it. This is the story across the board with Ford for example not introducing popular F-Series models that could compete against their successful Ranger, and the story is the same at Nissan with the Navara and Toyota and its

those spied on the Nullabor converted to RHD by Performax International, a specialist importer of exotic large American trucks. They have sold many Silverardos and the Tundras sport a Performax insignia on the vehicle. With a major outlet in Perth, you can bet that this was where these big beauties were destined!

Brian Tanner

2014 Spec Tundra The Tundra full size pickup goes on sale in the US with redesigned body and interior.

The 2014 Tundra is offered in several grades, starting with the hard-working SR, volume-leading SR5, the well-appointed Limited, and two premium grades: “Platinum” and the all-new “1794 Edition.”

The new 1794 Edition is a tribute to the ranch, founded in the year 1794, on which the Tundra plant is located in San Antonio.

Tundra is offered in three cab styles, twodoor Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab and four-door CrewMax, all available in 4x2 and 4x4.

Tundra comes with three powertrains - a 4.0-litre V6 matched to a 5-speed auto, 4.6-litre V8 and flagship 5.7-litre V8. Both the V8s come with a 6-speed auto. The 5.5L runs 20-inch tyures, the other models 18-inch.

Overland Cruisering 15

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TRIPS

ABERFELDY ADVENTURE

December, 2012 Trip Leaders: Laurie & Heidi Miles Convoy: Michael Schuettke George, Natalie (18), Rachel (17) & Zoe (12) Vrsecky Graeme Robertson & Frank Davin John Poelwyk & Julie Ross Helen & Ian Penman

Zebra

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Michael

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Iceman Smurf Big John Cricket

80 Series Petrol Prado Petrol Troopy TD 100 Series TD

eading for the Aberfeldy River: On a beautiful warm Saturday morning while getting set to start our trip, through the steep mountains and challenging roads the area is renowned for, I think I overheard something. I can’t say for sure, but in the distance I think I heard something like: “…I’d rather ride up steep bush tracks, over countless fallen trees and through cold mountain rivers on a bike with only half a front fork than travel…(muffled)… tipping…(muffled)…side panels…(muffled)…mud hole.”

I’m not sure why I mention this, as I wouldn’t like to suggest any connection between this and Heidi setting out from the Erica Caravan Park, minutes later on her trusty

H

mountain bike (a Cannondale Leftie) and pedalling off up a hill toward countless fallen logs and cold mountain streams while Laurie addressed the eager trip participants.

A natural inspection of each others vehicles went on, admiring new accessories (Zebra has had a comprehensive fit-out by adding a front diff lock & Warn winch, and won the award there), checking camping set-ups, and counting GPS devices. I declared that I had travelled GPS free this trip, wanting to rely on my bush skills alone (and a bit of following the car in front…), when a quick count revealed three GPS devices on board, two phones and an in-dash Toyota unit…they’re everywhere these days!

Overland Cruisering 19

On the communications front, Big John won hands down, although it is still (just) possible to see clear road through the forest of antennae on his Troopy so some “improvement” may still be possible.

After leaving Erica the first stop was the Cooper Creek pub. Sited in a lovely green area, most of our time there was spent pumping up a very flat rear tyre on a local’s tractor. As we soon learned a rear tractor tyre has (or is meant to have) a lot more air in it than your average 275/70/16 Land Cruiser tyre. As Laurie used his impressive new compressor to do an excellent job

20 Overland Cruisering

of inflating the tractor tyre, others used this time to let their air go the other way in preparation for the tracks ahead. The tractor driver was delighted and I’m sure would have offered us all a beer had not the pub already been closed for several years.

The driving from Cooper’s Creek was great. A mixture of track conditions and types, a few river crossings, some tricky ascents and descents and constant manoeuvring around or under fallen and partly fallen trees and branches.

We caught up with Heidi just after morning tea and loaded her bike back aboard

Zebra. Conditions had been great for riding in the morning, ahead of the predicted heat for later in the day, but the constant obstacles formed by fallen timber made the going slow on her mountain bike.

The highlight for the drivers (I’m told that many passengers didn’t appreciate it as much) was Trigg Track where 12 consecutive switchbacks, most requiring either three or five point turns to get around, climb vertically nearly 500 metres over not much more than 1km. It is an odd feeling (but one you get used to on the Trigg Track), watching the rotating tail-shaft of a car 10 metres ahead/above you as they negotiate another multi-point turn. There was a suggestion although not seriously entertained by those on this trip, of driving forward on the first leg of the switchback and then reversing up to the next switchback, and repeating the procedure until all the switchbacks were completed. Tyre marks on the turns indicated someone had obviously done this.

With conditions being so warm we were alert to both the potential danger of fire, and the equally scary possibility of noisy neighbours celebrating a summer weekend at O’Toole’s Flat. So we chose a safe and quiet camping spot on a lovely bend of the Aberfeldy River. Setting up quite early we spent a great afternoon swimming and getting to know each other by the river.

A very enjoyable evening and campfire conversation continued on until the last of us retired – just as the rain started and thunder storms approached.

Thanks to Laurie & Heidi again for a fun and safe weekend.

Graeme Robertson (1985) Tackling a double Black Diamond Track: After a night of trembling thunder storms and rain, the sky finally started to clear up for our second day of four-wheel driving.

Our morning included some entertainment from a passing 4WD who decided it would be fun to drive up the river. With everyone packed up by 9:00am we headed off for another day of thrill and adventure.

From camp at the Aberfeldy River we ventured back along Fultons Creek track.

Rated a ‘Double black diamond’ track, we were faced with some very steep climbs

and some interesting water crossings.

After some great photo shots of the creek crossings, our trip then continued north along Army Track.

Starting as a relatively easy track, it provided photographers with some spectacular views of the mountains. The track then started to get exciting with some challenging switchback turns. After morning tea on the side of Army Track, we continued along onto Williamson Spur Road. Being a 2WD road, it wasn’t long before we reached Steep Track. As the name infers, this track is a very hilly drive ending with a long and steep descent.

Lunch was eaten at O’Tooles Flat – a very large and flat campsite next to Donnelly Creek. It looked like a nice place to camp, only if you didn’t mind sharing it with every other camper. After lunch our trip headed south on Flats Track. Being a very steep track to climb, ironically it provided the convoy with some excitement and challenge.

However the best part of this track was at the top of the track where it runs into Williamson Spur track. This rocky climb challenged us all, with some chickening out and taking the alternate route around the side. However for the few who made it up, it was a very exhilarating climb.

Continuing onto Williamson Spur road we headed for North East track, which led us

to One Speck track. As the famous 12 switchbacks on Trigg Track had proved to be a highlight of yesterday, we decided to tackle them again, only this time downhill.

The track led to the Aberfeldy River where we made our final water crossing. The crossing proved to be a bit of an obstacle course with fallen trees in the way.

However, everyone passed with ease, except for Iceman who somehow stalled half way. Well done George!

I think I can speak for everyone when I say what a pleasurable trip this was and I would like to thank Laurie & Heidi for the time and effort they both put in to make this trip an enjoyable experience.

Natalie Vrsecky (1454)

Overland Cruisering 21

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TRIPS

Trip Leader: Participants:

C O B AW S TAT E F O R E S T R E C C E

Adam Takacs James Clark Michael Schuettk

he return to Cobaw was an adventure in nerves and trepidation. With a forecast of extensive rain over the Friday and Saturday with thunderstorms, the driving was set to be very difficult. As it turned out the forecasters were way off the mark and there had only been a few thunderstorms the night before. Some evidence remained with one of the trees that we had to navigate around still having that freshly charred smell having been brought down by a lightning strike. Whilst warm and very humid we found that the tracks had mostly dried out and were drier than our last visit in September. Maybe it was fortunate that the forecast rains hadn’t occurred as some of these tracks would have been extremely difficult in the wet.

This recce was to focus on tracks we hadn’t covered previously as well as re-running some favourites. We headed off on Muirs and Mansfield Tracks for the first of the new tracks. Pinnacle Track was the most challenging for the day with a number of sections that needed to be walked. Whether it was navigating the deep ruts and timber or a big clay hole with steep exit, this track was a highlight. The big clay hole had a rutted lead up and had a deceptive firm

T

sandy surface. You would need to have been here to fully appreciate this challenge.

Adam had a good go at smoothing it out but quickly churned up the surface bringing up wet clay. With no chance of traction and the car stranded on the edge, a winch recovery was the only option in this case.

James was next up and had already prepared for winching out, also giving it a good go but not making much progress either due to the steepness and lack of traction. I was lucky last, and having prepared for a winch and armed with third party hindsight, I took a different line which allowed me to climb the far right edge of the hole giving me more traction. It was with a great deal of luck and some interesting side angles, I

managed to make it through on the first go.

It was my turn not to have to be recovered at Cobaw.

Googies Track had an interesting name that begged us to drive it. Googies however is a lesser used track now and mostly used by motorcycles. We didn’t get that far along it as we encountered a long section that was extensively obstructed by fallen timber. With no feasible path around and no desire to spend the day clearing the track, we back-tracked to head up Link Tk and Boyers Tk. Heading into the northwest, we entered a seemingly little used part of Cobaw where the condition of the tracks changed significantly with extensive fallen timber and deep wash-outs, which would be best described as gullies.

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Overland Cruisering 23

One of the washed out tracks that we negotiated our way around had wash-outs a metre deep running along the track.

Cobaw has areas that provide a notable difference in track types and conditions with the western tracks being of clay, rock and sand composition with plenty of erosion and fallen timber, and the eastern half noted for dark soil tracks and being regularly cleared of timber.

From the northern end of Cobaw we headed south along Walkers Tk and Greenways Tk, which turned out to be pretty easy with only minor bog holes to deal with. For some action we also revisited the rugged and interesting â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;M and Mâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Stumpy Tracks. Stumpy Tk is a track that keeps on giving with a deep washout to straddle and plenty of rocks to climb over.

To wrap up the day we headed back to the rutted section of Mansfield Tk to have a crack at the rutted slope before heading back to air up. Our farewells were made with the sound of thunder in the background. The great timing had the thunderstorms rolling in after we had aired up and left Cobaw. An enjoyable experience was had by all and I am certain to revisit this area again in the future, and can recommend this to those seeking a greater challenge. Many thanks to Adam for running this trip.

Michael Schuettke (2476)

24 Overland Cruisering

TRIPS

TA S M A N I A’ S W E S T C O A S T

2nd – 8th January, 2013 Trip Leaders: Participants:

Adam & Olivia Takacs with Amelia, Owen & Angus Peter, Karen, Jayden & Sasha Crump Ian Wells and Andrew Parbury Harry King Peter & Thea McLean Kevin Rogers

Day 1: Ian Wells (2486). Meeting place was at Smithton. A few of us had bush camped at Stony Point the previous evening – not recommended in the silly season. Ian and Andrew who had also camped at Stony Point just made the 10:00 am deadline both suitably primed by two double shots of coffee each. The look of envy on the faces of fellow coffee aficionados was something to behold, but our intrepid trip leader would have none of it, and would not be deterred from the task at hand in getting the convoy moving.

From Smithton we headed south west using two wheel drive tracks towards the

coast at Arthur River. After a short stop at the Ranger station in Arthur River to purchase camping and off-road vehicle permits, we headed south and located a great bush campsite on a large well grassed area only 200 metres from the beach. After setting up camp we then all headed in our vehicles to the beach, forewarned that the North West coast is renowned for quicksand. Indeed, it didn’t take long to find some either. Well not quite quicksand, but certainly deep and soft sand, deep enough for the leading vehicle to get stuck, and as the reader will be well aware the leading vehicle is normally the trip leader’s. (Note: no name has been mentioned).

With all hands on deck, (well most anyway) the tide racing in and some half an hour of digging plus some well-placed MaxTraxs and snatching from Harry, the vehicle was extracted. By this time the double shots had well and truly worn off and it was beer o’clock.

Day 2: Peter & Thea McLean (2506) After a lovely leisurely start to a beautiful fresh morning, apart from Ian who used the excess energy from that 2nd cup of coffee, putting it to good use splitting the wood in anticipation of a good campfire, we headed off to the beach to play in the dunes.

At Coota Rocks we passed some of the variety of shacks to be found around this

coast and noticed some of the locals drinking (at 9:30!). They were friendly enough.

We came upon an old pier and I noticed Sooty Oyster Catchers as well as the more common Pied Oyster Catchers on the beach. At 4-ways we turned left to Sarah Anne Rocks which turned out to be a very pretty cove fringed by lots of quite new holiday homes, looking more substantial than mere shacks. One had a brand new outdoor pizza oven. There were very interesting vertical, heavily weathered rock formations. We drove on to Nelson Bay and Sunset Point for some beach driving.

Nelson Bay was very pretty with a grouping of caravans and boats moored. One new swish house had windmills, water tanks, solar panels and a big verandah and was obviously self-sufficient and comfortable.

We passed through Nelson Bay along to Sunset Point lookout where a big Pacific Gull swooped, obviously not wanting us there. This is unusual as they’re usually so shy. We took the hint and stopped for morning tea at Arthur Beach, the next beach along, which was very pretty with the Arthur River mouth next to us.

It is marked as a sensitive bird breeding area where the Pied Oyster catcher and the rare Little Plover make a nest, which is just a scratch in the sand – not the best way of building to prevent extinction. There were also ancient rock carvings – mainly circles on the rocks near the river mouth.

We found the Basin where we were confronted by an enormous dune that really gave Kevin a chance to exercise his “inner hoon” as he gave joy rides to Olivia and Thea. No-one reached the top of this lone.

Lots of good dune driving possibilities here

Overland Cruisering 25

and everyone had a play on the different dunes. Further along more fun for all helping Kevin winch off Pete to free himself from where he got bogged.

Then back to Arthur River for lunch on the beach.

After lunch we explored Mawson Track.

Adam stopped to let Olivia herd a bluetongued lizard off the road first, and then it was on to Bluff Hill Point Road to the lighthouse. We went along a track and came upon a huge luxury double story beach house with a sign saying BHP – must be executives holiday shack!

At Marrawah (a general store, a pub, a house and a church) we stopped for alcohol supplies and the luxury of a toilet courtesy of the pub. We went down Green’s Road and saw the wind turbines on the opposite head. It was a very busy spot probably because it’s a free camp area. We headed home past the kelp processing plant for a much needed swim for Adam and the kids, and a rest for the rest! With his new batteries from the general store, Harry was able to give his new shower a try, spruiking “$10 per shower anyone?”

Olivia and the kids wangled one for free.

26 Overland Cruisering

Day 3: Kevin Rogers (2536) Leaving camp at 9:00 am, we travelled south along the coast from our camp near the beach in the vicinity of Rebecca Ck and Rebecca Lagoon, both apparently named after “the Rebecca” which sunk nearby in 1853. After about 20km, we drove onto the beach near Ordnance Bay and then down the Sandy Cape beach to Sandy Cape.

We drove off the beach to have a look at the beacon on the headland, and then had lunch in a sheltered spot behind the beach. After a break, and desperate to get out of the sun, we headed off to Johnsons Head, where there was a challenging dune to climb before reaching the beach.

The chicken track around the dune was used by one vehicle, but everyone else made it up and down with various levels of right foot pressure, and some action photos taken. After regrouping, we drove down the beach, and onto the headland, where we then turned around to make the trek back to camp.

A steep exit from the dunes onto the sandy Cape Beach and through a tannin stained creek via the inland track was a highlight. The coastal scenery was magnificent. Drifting sand from the

coastal dunes gave the impression of mist which softened the landscape.

It was a hot, windy day with a total fire ban and the maximum temperature in Hobart (41C) was the highest for 125 years. There was much discussion on the local temperature with outdoor air temperature readings from 2 of our cars differing by more than 5C and opinions by more than that.

The sun was certainly very strong (the southern hole in the ozone layer?) and all welcomed a swim in a sheltered cove near Ordnance Point on our return.

We met people from the Braddon 4WD Club on a number of occasions. Our trip leader, Adam had travelled with them before. They gave us a lot of very useful information about track and beach conditions and some local identities.

Day 5: Peter & Karen Crump (2254) The record temperature the day prior was followed by thunderstorms and rain and we were a little apprehensive during the night as the rain built up at 5:30 am. It looked like a very wet packing up but we were extraordinarily lucky as the rain cleared and blue sky appeared to a beautiful day.

We headed to the Balfour track, which had a warning of “snorkels and winches required, travel only in convoy” - fun was coming. The warnings were about bog holes with black stinky water in them, so after some fun driving through very thick and close scrub, we waded into the first of many. The big bog hole was yet to come though, and we were all prepared with our radiator blinds at the ready.

Adam and Olivia warned us when we arrived and we all blinded up in anticipation before Adam waded in with Olivia videoing from the car. It looked long and deep.

It was, and as Adam got beyond half way, with the left hand side of the car sinking deeper, black water over the bonnet on the left and Olivia bravely videoing, he started to lose traction (with both diffs locked) and deciding that was enough, he backed out.

Luckily there was a good alternative track, so we were able to skirt the big one, but there were many more, including one still deep enough to go over the bonnet. Kevin made the most of it with a huge splash on entry, making for a great photo. We then stopped for morning tea and a chance to clear some of

the muck from the radiator.

Some minor action followed with Ian coming close to losing his number plate, then suffering a flat, but we made it to lunch with a view of a local bushfire in the background. After lunch we headed south on the western explorer and at Corinna most of us took advantage of the showers, store and water and spiders (drink) for the kids and then we were onto the punt to cross the Pieman River, then on to camp.

Adam found a stunning campsite right on the beach just past Granville Harbour with a million dollar view, and we settled down to a well-earned dinner around the campfire.

Day 5: Andrew Parbury (2581) From our spectacular, sometimes windswept beachfront campsite, we headed north via Stingray Beach, 4 Mile beach and Farm Track, heading for the mouth of Pieman River, which we had previously crossed via the punt.

The first part was along Stingray Beach, a nice exercise in sand driving, handled well by all until we had to back-track a little to find an exit to the next beach.

The first try had soft sand, which required some exercise in digging out.

Adam found a better exit, and we pro-

ceeded to 4 Mile beach.

4 Mile beach had an additional challenge, with quick sand warnings, and some creek crossings. We had a great drive up the long beach, avoiding areas that looked like wet sand. We reached the end of the beach without drama, and enjoyed our morning tea at the end.

Adam led the way onto Farm Track, which had its challenges, including slow work over rocks, testing the limits of suspension travel, and some mud holes. Our highlight for this section was at the crossing of a small creek, where Sylvia the frog was released by Sasha Crump and monitored until she hopped away in her new home environment. Sylvia had been nursed back to health after being an unwilling traveller on a previous day, having been rolled up in the tent. The creek of her new home was promptly named “Frog Hollow.”

We descended to the beach at the shore of the Pieman River, which was very broad with the characteristic tannin stain from the upstream timber. We had lunch and some swimming, then headed back on an alternate path of the Farm Track, closer to the coast. This route was also challenging in parts,

Overland Cruisering 27

the highlight being some spectacular rock formations, known as the Conical Rocks.

We tracked via 4 Mile and Stingray beaches, returning to camp mid-afternoon – a great day.

Day 6: Harry King (2029) We departed camp just before 9:00 am and after a play on a couple of sandy side tracks headed into Granville Harbour. After stopping to offload our rubbish we continued back up the very good dirt road to the main bitumen road where we stopped to adjust tyre pressures. After an easy drive we pulled into Zeehan for a morning tea break and a look around the town. Kevin also took the opportunity to change his left rear tyre, which had a cut in the side wall.

A short drive out of Zeehan along a very good and picturesque dirt track took us to the Spray Tunnel. The keyhole shape of the tunnel was designed to take a 10 ton Kerr Stuart locomotive and boilers used to drive the stamp mill attached to the local silver mine. After returning through Zeehan we continued on the bitumen to pick up the Montezuma Falls track which is classified “easy to medium.” Whilst a bit bumpy with some light mud in places and a couple of steep creek entries/exits, it was in the main relatively easy going and did not present any real challenges. It is also quite a picturesque track to drive. The main difficulty encountered was vehicles coming the other way. Most of the oncoming vehicles agreed to pull over to let us pass once they

realised that we were a convoy of six vehicles, however one vehicle refused at first to back up which presented a bit of an impasse. He finally relented allowing us to squeeze through.

Montezuma Falls are accessed via a narrow suspension foot bridge across a fairly deep ravine and certainly lived up to their reputation as the highest and most spectacular in Tasmania – they proved to be well worth the one and a half hours it took to drive the track. An uneventful trip back down the track other than a flat tyre on Pete & Thea’s vehicle and a couple more encounters with oncoming vehicles.

Back on the bitumen we travelled a couple of kilometres before finding a campsite for the night beside an arm of Lake Pieman.

Peter Crump had intended trying his luck with his fly rod but much to his dismay discovered that he had left his reels at home!

Harry offered to lend him his only to discover he had also left his behind so no trout for dinner that night.

Day 7: Peter & Thea McLean. We woke at the small but scenic Rennison campsite where the train line ran within a couple of feet of our cars. The driver gunned his engines and gave us a good toot very early this morning and himself a good laugh no doubt. It sounded like he was coming straight through our tent; it’s a good walk on the track curving over the lake (an arm of Lake Pieman). The mozzies were quite friendly last night though. We headed back

towards Strahan, 48kms away. We drove round the Ring River. It was very picturesque with its pretty ferns, lovely trees and flowers blooming.

We were heading to some beach driving on B27, listening to upsetting reports of devastating fires burning in the south-east of the country round Port Arthur and Freycinet Peninsula as we drove. We stopped at Henty Dunes Lookout, a long expanse of 10,000 year old dunes. At Strahan we turned right at the roundabout to Ocean Beach past a wood yard with salvaged Huon Pine logs. Getting on to the beach there were lots of small rocks but a good hard surface. The tide mark was right to the grass line in places along the dunes.

The peat was collapsing onto the beach in some sections, revealing large lumps of ancient logs. A rare sea eagle soared above us. We stopped to investigate some old whale bones scattered along the beach.

It was firm under our tyres as we drove along to Macquarie Heads where there were two interesting lighthouses visible where we posed the cars in a line to take pictures. We proceeded on to charming Strahan where it was now raining and lunched together in a nice café. We parted after thanking Adam for his wonderful organisation and meticulous planning of a most interesting itinerary and Olivia and the children for letting us share their holiday.

Overland Cruisering 29

TRIPS

DRIVER AWARENESS WEEKEND - FEBRUARY 2013

Attendees: Gary & Rosemary Britton, Gary Richardson, James Clappers, Mathew & Sara Lilley, Greg Williams & Nina Everitt, Chris Bradbury & Helen Hormile, Geoff Berry, Leon Meyer & Jan Dunlop and Mark Scaunich.

On the first weekend in February, 2013 fourteen new TLCCV members in nine vehicles participated in the DA practical weekend at the Club’s property at Yarck.

Heather, Peter and Jeffrey welcomed the newcomers as they arrived on Friday night and Saturday morning, while Simon joined us early on Saturday morning after his son’s birthday party the night before.

There was a variety of vehicles which would be involved in the weekend including Prados, 80 Series, 200 Series and a couple of Discos, and there was also a variety of experience among the participants.

From our perspective, I had only driven offroad a couple of times and my wife had barely sat inside a 4WD vehicle let alone driving one off-road.

Nevertheless, Heather, Simon and Peter assured us that we would all be able to complete the tasks that they had in mind for us.

We started early on Saturday morning with a briefing in the Yarck Hilton – an amazing building that captures some of the remarkable history of the Club (not to mention a massive fireplace that encourages conversation and the telling of tall tales and true).

Heather began by outlining in very broad terms what we could expect that day and the next, and then it was off to the ramp to have a look under the bonnet and the chassis at a couple of examples of different vehicles. Paul and Simon explained the finer points of how 4WDs work and highlighted some of the differences that exist from one vehicle to the next. For the novices among us this was very informative.

Simon and Peter then demonstrated a winching recovery and explained the dangers of crossing a “live” cable. In fact, throughout the weekend Heather, Simon and Peter continually emphasised safety as the critical element not to be underestimated.

After that it was off to the first obstacle – Whoopsy-Do and the hill-starts. Everyone successfully completed this exercise,

30 Overland Cruisering

although in my case I think that I gave Heather a few grey hairs when I descended Whoopsy-Do. The patience and calmness of the instructors certainly helped to allay the concerns of the participants.

The next challenge was Garvey’s Track and a number of comments were overheard about the gradient, the ruts and an obstinate tree about half way down. We were assured that the gradient was less than what we had just encountered – but it didn’t look that way. It was on this track that I realised that my vehicle needs more wheel travel (and that the undercarriage could do with a good clean).

Unfortunately, after the very dry summer we have had, there was no water in the bog-hole or in the river crossing, so we were encouraged to come back in winter to have a crack at them.

We drove to the Bus Stop and up (and back down) Latimer’s Track. Heather explained some of the historical obstacles that are not currently used in DA training and James decided to try the Staircase.

So, with everyone watching, he did it – and did it with ease. We then headed back to the camp for a break before a twilight drive taking Butcher’s Track, Garvey’s Track and

Latimer’s Track before heading out of the property to Terip Road. We re-entered the property via the back gate and drove down Bulldozer before heading back to camp and dinner.

It was an exhausting but exhilarating day, and we couldn’t wait for more of the same the next day. Many of us sat around the fire that night and talked about what we had achieved and there was a real sense of camaraderie among the group.

Sunday morning started with theory in the hut where Heather, Simon and Peter talked about tyres, trip preparation, water crossings and driving in mud – clearly Simon’s speciality and passion. Then it was off to the Sand Pit, via Latimer’s Track. Peter and Simon discussed recovery via snatch straps and again the emphasis was on safety. They highlighted the dangers, safe distances for bystanders (after the photos have been taken and uploaded to Facebook) and never stepping over a “live” connection. After a demonstration by the instructors, everyone else had an opportunity to practice being recovered and recovering another vehicle.

Then it was a convoy drive to the 40 acres, up Ups ‘n Downs, up Bulldozer and down the Bridge Track back to the hut. After another briefing by the instructors, with a focus on need for members to support the Club at working bees (aka Maintenance & Construction weekends) it was time to pack up and head home.

It was a fantastic weekend and I cannot thank the instructors and assistants enough for their support and encouragement, not to mention their commitment to supporting new members by taking time out of their busy lives to show us the ropes.

I know that I learned a great deal on the weekend and have already had the opportunity to put it into practice at Cobaw recently. My wife also is very proud of what she accomplished and (prior to the weekend) certainly didn’t think that she could have successfully negotiated the tracks she did.

Chris Bradbury (2606)

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For more information or details of the stockist nearest you, head to www.arb.com.au

Overland Cruisering 31

YA R C K

MAINTENANCE WEEKEND

Maintenance & Construction weekend 23rd & 24th February, 2013 nce again it was great to see Ted Gray from Geelong come to the working bee, he has a long way to travel and we appreciate his efforts and his company. Also new member Traco, who joined in with the many activities. Dulcie was busy at the toilet/shower block ensuring the area is clean for all of us to use.

Leaves were swept from around the hut and raked onto garden beds. Drains along the edge of the main track into the property were checked and excess leaf litter was removed. Fallen branches were removed from grassed areas so that mowing can be done (probably next month).

Greg and his bobcat prepared the bog hole and water crossing for another year of use - when will we get rain – work done on the new event very interesting. A team of workers were helping to get some of the Cruiserkhana events organized.

It was a very hot weekend and it was very relaxing to have evening drinks under the verandah at the back of the hut. A kangaroo stopped briefly to check us out and was then on his way. It was almost a full moon

O

and a beautiful balmy night for those who sleep under the stars.

The morning sun was bright red and indicated another hot day ahead. Noel from Violet Town came for Sunday to water the plants at the memorial garden and generally enjoy the property. Three vehicles drove up to the ‘back gate’ at Terip Road as the fence needed repair. Dulcie drove Ted as Ted was in a conventional vehicle, Brian took Traco, a new member, and Ken and Jan were tail enders. After the repairs we drove to Bluegum Outstation for a quick stop and morning smoko. While we were sipping our cuppas a mob of kangaroos passed by us with one little fella showing off and in his excitement he fell over. They are wonderful to watch and so close.

Back in our trucks and off to look at the site for the bush hut then moving on again to return to the hut. A few more small jobs with lunch somewhere in between and during the afternoon we all started to depart to make our journey home.

I didn’t get a list of names, but many thanks to all who participated.

Jan Chivers (603)

FOR SALE: Kathmandu Pathfinder standard size down sleeping bag compresses very small, grey & green in colour, rated 4 seasons, absolutely perfect condition, hardly used. $250.00 ONO. Contact: Angela Di Lallo (225) Phone: 9807 9240 Mobile: 0419 434 516

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FOR SALE: • Cooper Discoverer S/T Maxx 285/75-16 tyre, never used, never been on car, still has blue protection. $330.00 (Cost $430 in Alice Springs last year).

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FOR SALE 2000 turbo diesel Land Cruiser 4.2 litre, 261,000 kms, many extras including ARB Sahara bar, tinted windows, poly air bags, dual battery system, UHF aerial, steel roof rack, homemade drawers, IPF spotlights, full service records. Sell price $22,000 neg.

Contact: Tony Bryant (1404) Mobile: 0419 518 934

32 Overland Cruisering

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