UNSEALED 4X4 ISSUE 007

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WA BE GO S NS T 4 UN X DE 4 R$ 15 K

TRALIA'S LLY AUS OFFICIA

No.1

* ZINE A G A M 4X4

TOURING-READY PERFORMANCE

A DAY’S DRIVE FROM BRISBANE: FIVE TRACKS

MODS

HOW TO: ROCK

THE ESSENTIAL GEAR GUIDE TO SUMMER 4X4 ADVENTURES

DRIVING

FAILED ELECTRONICS

LEFT ME STRANDED AND COST $12K FIX! TO

+ Our 5 Favourite Tracks You Probably Don’t Know About!

ISSUE 007 0BITCOIN

$0.00

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CONTENTS

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THE

ULTIMATE NISSA

N I W$150K

IZES R P F HO T R O W

S S E L E C I R + A P ESCAPE 4X4 WITH

4 X 4 R AN N M I L L A PAT C ENTER O T E HER CLICK

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AN ADVENTURE GIVEAWAY THE PRIZE POOL • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 X Nissan Patrol Cab Chassis ST. ARB 4X4 Accessories and installation 1 X Cub Camper Spacematic Drover 1 X Metalink GX Canopy.

2 X Recaro Expert M seats 1 X Nomad 3.5 Metre V Nose Punt.

1 X Redarc 108W Solar Blanket 1 X Yamaha EF2000is Generator 9 X Cooper ST Maxx tyres 9 X ATX Ledge Teflon-coated wheels Old Man Emu Suspension Warn Zeon 10-S Winch GME UHF Radio and Antenna 2X Maxtrax Hema HN7 Outback Touring Solutions drawers Out Of Town Longranger tank Century Batteries Wurton LED light bar Redarc BCDC & Towpro Enmach Industries PolyRV water tank Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures Pack

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

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GEAR NEWS

Because you’ve heroicall chosen to download you copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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ly ur

t’s o o

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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REDESIGNED

FORD RANGER

LEAKED!

Matt Scott

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WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE REDESIGNED FORD RANGER? TELL US IN THE COMMENTS. AN INTERNAL MESS-UP ACCIDENTALLY EXPOSES REDESIGNED FORD RANGER UTE. Ford might have one of the newest dual-cab utes on the market, but they’re certainly not blind to the fact that the competition is coming on strong this year. With Nissan and Mitsubishi confirmed to release redesigned models this year, and rumours abound that Toyota is about to unveil the nextgeneration Hilux, Ford’s new Ranger is about to quickly become old news.

But Ford doesn’t intend to sit back and do nothing, and it’s now confirmed that we’ll soon be seeing a refreshed Ranger hit Australian shores. In a “leaked”

video that was uploaded from Ford Asia Pacific, which we’re supposed to believe wasn’t actually uploaded on purpose, the Ranger shows updated styling to match that of the forthcoming Everest SUV. There’s no news whether any of the suspension architecture has been changed, or what engine options will be, and we haven’t been allowed a peak at the interior. However the video claims that the refreshed Ranger will be smarter, safer, smoother, and stronger than the previous model.

Clearly Ford doesn’t want their brutishute to be forgotten in the upcoming showdown this year, and continued innovations are certainly one way to make sure that doesn’t happen.

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WHAT IS

THE WORST 4X4 EVER MADE?

WE’RE ASKING YOU. WE’RE TAKING TO FACEBOOK TO FIGURE OUT WHAT THE WORST 4X4 IN THE WORLD IS.

?

Matt Scott

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Even the worst four-wheel drives suffer from the ugly baby syndrome – beautiful to the eye of the owner, but outright ghastly to anyone with vision or common sense.

I won’t name any names here, mainly because I’d rather hear your opinion, but we’re focusing on the worst of the worst here.

The unknown machines that are so horrible, you shouldn’t even speak their names.

Maybe it’s a softroader wanna-be that’s trying too hard, a rough-looking four-wheel drive that’s so unreliable it could spontaneously combust.

Perhaps it’s a ute made of steel so thin you could read through it.

Is it a Toyota? Is it a Nissan? A Land Rover perhaps? Maybe it’s a Tata or a Ssangyong? (Ooops, I said I wouldn’t name any names, didn’t I?).

ANYWAY, WE WANT THE DIRTY DETAILS.

TELL US WHY IT’S THE WORST.

EVERYONE WHO COMMENTS GETS A FREE SUBSCRIPTION TO UNSEALED 4X4. GO!

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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SUMMER BU

THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE

TO SUMMER

LOOKING FOR THE COOLEST GEAR TO TAKE AWAY OVER THE WARMER MONTHS?

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UYER’S GUIDE

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SUMMER BU

BEST BUYS UNDER $100

› MSA TINNIE TUBES

It’s happened to all of us at one point, arriving at camp to find a can has exploded inside your fridge or icebox, leaving behind a trail of destruction.

Fear no more travellers, thanks to this simple yet effective solution from MSA 4x4. Tinnie Tubes are made from 2mm thick neoprene, allowing for maximum storage space while offering much needed protection from rubbing. Both ends of the Tinnie Tubes are covered unlike a traditional stubby holder, which means the chance of finding a leaky fridge when you pull into camp are massively reduced. Supplied in a set of 12, they even arrive in a handy canvas storage bag, and are available in two different colours.

› ARB BOOT SWAG

Designed to complement the ARB Skydome range of swags, the ARB Boot Swag is one product that thinks outside the box. When designing the new swag, ARB engineers found the traditional boot mats found on other swags generally caused more issues than good. This standalone item can be used with any tent or swag, and solves the problem of where to put those muddy boots at the end of a day, once and for all.

Priced from $39.99 www.arb.com.au

Priced from $34 for 12 Tinnie Tubes www.msa4x4.com.au

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UYER’S GUIDE

BEST BUYS UNDER $100

› BUSHMAN INSECT REPELLENT

Insect repellent may sound like an odd thing to get excited about, but if you have ever headed north without the good stuff you will know that the creepy crawlies can grow to the size of small birds. Bushman is an Australianbased company, and there are two grades of repellent available (Ultra and Plus with sunscreen) as well as an anti-itch product if the bugs get to you before you have a chance to apply Bushman. Water, sweat and rub resistant, Bushman is even pleasant on the nose – unless you are a sand fly or a mosquito that is!

› ST JOHN AMBULANCE FIRST AID KITS

A first aid kit should be something every 4X4 owner has, and knows how to use. This is especially true in the warmer months, when snakes and spiders can be particularly active. St John Ambulance offers a first aid kit for just about every situation, and for $89.95 it’s pretty hard to pass on the Medium Leisure Kit. It fits easily in your 4X4, and has enough first aid supplies to take care of most emergencies.

Priced from $89.95 www.stjohnambulance.com.au

Prices range from $9.99- $19.99 www.bushman-repellent.com

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SUMMER BU

BEST BUYS UNDER $100

› RENETTO ORIGINAL CAMPING CHAIR

A good camp chair is something you will use time and time again, so why not treat yourself to one with more options? What sets the Renetto Original Camping Chair apart from the rest is the incorporated waterproof canopy, which also provides 100% UV protection. The canopy features a pocket that is ideal for storing smaller items, and for peace of mind the Renetto Original Camping Chair is even backed up by a one-year warranty. A 16mm powder coated steel frame offers enough strength to carry a load rating to 150kg, and the oversize seat with wide arm rests and two large drink holders seals the deal from our end.

Priced from $59.90 www.renetto.com.au

› 1 YEAR SUBCRIPTION TO PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4 ADVENTURES MAGAZINE

Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures is a premium quality 4X4 magazine – created, designed and printed in Australia, for Australian 4X4 owners.

Launched to complement the popular TV Show of the same name, you’ll find stunning touring destinations and honest product reviews, along with articles on how to get the most out of your 4X4 lifestyle. The quarterly magazine that promotes responsible 4X4 touring, Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures is ‘the essence of 4X4 adventure’. Each issue now comes with a free DVD! Priced from $39

www.mr4x4.com.au

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UYER’S GUIDE

CAMPING GEAR

› SNOW PEAK FIREPLACE

Camping isn’t really camping without a decent fire, but having one in warmer months can prove to be tricky. This is where the Snow Peak Pack & Carry Fireplace comes in handy by allowing for a contained fire, which is raised off the ground. Built by Snow Peak in Japan, you can easily see this is a quality unit. This stainless steel fireplace comes in three sizes, and folds flat for easy storage. A variety of cooking and grilling accessories are also available, making this one practical bit of kit.

Priced from $165 www.drifta.com.au/snow-peak

› REDARC FOLDING SOLAR PANELS

Looking for more charge in your 12V system, but don’t have the space for another battery or traditional solar panel? The range of folding solar panels from REDARC has been designed to be easily transportable.

Compact, light weight, and easy to set up. These flexible, foldable and amazingly thin panels can even be linked if you need more power. There is no excuse to not have a reliable solar system – bulky solar panels are out!

Priced from $755 - $2,666 www.redarc.com.au

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SUMMER BU

CAMPING GEAR

› CTEK MXS 5.0 BATTERY CHARGER

› ROTOPAX WATER TANK

The MXS 5.0 battery charger from CTEK is an advanced microprocessor controlled battery charger that offers diagnosis of battery condition, an automatic desulphation step as well as a reconditioning step that actually revives your batteries after being deeply discharged. The entire testing, charging, and maintenance cycles are easily followed on the LED display.

Not only that, but the MXS 5.0 is fully automatic once connected and, like all good things in the world of four-wheel driving, is splash and dust proof as well.

If you are looking for the toughest and most versatile method of storing a few litres of water, it’s hard to not look at the Rotopax Water Tanks. Made from durable roto-moulded food grade plastic, the manufacturers claim there isn’t a blow-moulded container on the market that will outlast theirs. With features such as thick crush-resistant walls, leak-proof gaskets, a stackable design and unique locking and mounting systems, it’s easy to see how this is an off-road friendly way to transport water.

A variety of tank sizes and diesel/petrol/ storage options are also available.

Priced from $169

Priced from $79

www.ctek.se/au/en

www.rotopax.com

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UYER’S GUIDE

CAMPING GEAR

› OPPOSITE LOCK BLUE TONGUE COMPRESSOR

› OUTDOOR CONNECTION 5-STAR SWAG

Priced from $536

Priced from $349

www.oppositelock.com.au

www.outdoorconnection.com.au

With summer here, there is a fair chance you will be doing more beach driving. If you’re hitting the soft stuff, you’re going to need a good compressor to allow for quick inflation of your tyres after dropping a few PSI (you did drop your tyre pressure, right?). The Opposite Lock Twin Tongue Compressor claims to produce a serious 84.1L/ min of air output, which is enough to inflate a big tyre to road pressure in minutes. It’s easy to service with spare parts available and a long life motor, and is even made in the good old USA. Definitely worth a look if you are in the market for a high-quality compressor.

Do you like the sound of having a swag for all seasons? So do we, which is why the Outdoor Connection 5-Star Swag gets a mention. Traditional swags tend to get too hot if left closed during the warmer parts of the day, and if you roll the canvas up to get more ventilation, you’re exposed to rain and bad weather. This is where the 5 Star Swag shines, with its unique design allowing the sides to be pegged out away from the swag providing excellent crossventilation. If the temperature drops, the top cover can be set up with the sides down trapping in warm air too, making this one versatile swag.

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SUMMER BU

SHELTER

› OZTRAIL RV SHADE AWNING TENT

Awnings and 4X4s go together like beer and pizza, which is why the RV Shade Awning Tent from Oztrail is such a good idea we wonder why we didn’t think of it! By attaching the tent to the frame of the awning, you now have a fully enclosed tent large enough for four people to sleep under, which sets up in just minutes. Made from 150 denier 100% polyester walls, ultrafine No-SeeUm mesh, and a durable heavy weight PVC bucket floor ensuring no wet feet on damp mornings. Perfect for those who have less space to store bulky four-man tents in their vehicles, or those who want a decent size tent that doesn’t take all weekend to set up.

Priced from $319.95

› TJM BOULIA ROOF TOP TENT

The trick to a good night’s sleep in summer is having a tent with a good amount of ventilation. One way to get that is by installing a roof top tent such as the TJM Boulia. As these tents are mounted up high on the vehicle’s roof, they will get much more breeze than a tent positioned on the floor. Not only that, but the views are better, less sand gets transported into the tent, and you have extra security from scary wildlife.

The Boulia is available with an optional annex too, which when combined with the included pull out veranda makes for an impressive amount of shelter.

Priced from $1637.20 www.tjm.com.au

www.oztrail.com.au

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UYER’S GUIDE

SHELTER

› HENNESSY HAMMOCKS

If you are looking for a lightweight shelter to bunk down in for the night, a hammock could be just what you’re after. When it comes to hammocks, it’s hard to look past the range of Hennessy Hammocks that not only shelter you from the elements thanks to the ripstop polyester rain fly; but stops pesky bugs as well thanks to the included bug-proof mesh screen. Think about a life with no more tent poles, no need to find flat ground, and no lengthy set-up times.

All you need is two supports to tie the hammock off on, and you’re set.

Priced from $129 – $299 with five different models available www.hennessyhammock.com

STAYING COOL

› COLEMAN CPX6 LIGHTED TENT FAN

Camp fans might not be the most glamorous accessory, but the second you use one you won’t want to go camping without one again. The Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan doesn’t just circulate air throughout your tent or swag, it is also a bright LED light with three light modes offering up to 99 lumens of brightness.

The fan blades are made from soft foam to prevent injuries, and there are two mounting options included (a floor stand and a magnetic plate for hanging from tents) for versatility. Powered from either four D-cell batteries or the optional Coleman CPX rechargeable cartridge, they claim it will run for up to 30 hours with just the fan on!

Priced from $34 www.coleman.com

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SUMMER BU

STAYING COOL

› WAECO SEAT AIR-CONDITIONER

› COMPANION MINI TENT EVAPORATIVE COOLER

Priced from $89.95

Priced from $114

www.waeco.com.au

www.companionbrands.com.au

Are you sick of sitting in a burning hot seat when you first jump into your 4x4? It’s never a fun experience, which is why Waeco have come up with the MagiComfort air-conditioned seat cover.

Installation is as simple as strapping it in place on your seat, and connecting it to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter.

Before you know it, cool jets of air will be blowing across the entire surface of the seat while providing a massaging effect at the same time. The ergonomic design enhances occupant comfort levels further, and with two cooling stages to select from, you won’t want to leave the driver’s seat even on the hottest day.

Looking for the next step up in cooling your tent while camping? The Companion Rechargeable Evaporative Cooler can be used as a fan or an evaporative cooler, with adjustable air direction and a touch button control panel for ease of use. Capable of holding up to 800ml of water, meaning you can run the unit for longer between top-ups.

An outstanding feature of the cooler is the fact it’s completely portable, and runs off a 6V DC rechargeable battery.

Companion claim this battery is enough to run the pint-sized air-con unit for six hours, which should be plenty long enough to cool a tent or swag.

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UYER’S GUIDE

STAYING COOL

› MISTY MATE COOL CAMPER 6

› DARCHE MATE COOLER

Now this is a novel way to stay cool at camp, a portable misting unit designed to spray cool mist over otherwise hot and frustrated family and friends. No batteries are required, and the Cool Camper 6 comes complete as a kit with 10ft of lead line and 6ft of mist line included. The hand pumped water tank holds over two gallons of water and the set-up is as easy as connecting the kit together with the supplied clipon connectors. Perfect for mounting over tents, awnings or even just over a tree, you’re bound to be the most popular guest at camp with your own outdoor misting system.

If you’re looking for the ultimate campfire happy hour accessory, the Darche Mate Cooler is going to be the envy of your travelling companions.

This portable fold-up padded cooler has four stubbie holders that sit on top of a large ice storage compartment to keep drinks nice and cold. Additional drinks can also be stored in the ice compartment, and accessed through the Velcro hatch in the top, meaning the lid doesn’t need to be opened to grab another drink. A removable ice insert is included for quick cool down times, and the whole show is locked away in a convenient carry bag for ease of transport and storage.

Priced from $69

Priced from $59

www.mistymate.com

www.darche.com.au

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SUMMER BU

ACTIVITIES

› IRONMAN TRAVELMASTER FISHING ROD

› LOGITECH UE BOOM SPEAKERS

Priced from $149 for the rod and $75 for the reel

Priced from $199

One of the hardest things to pack is the fishing gear. Not that it takes up too much space, but how do you know what outfit to take away? This is where the Ironman Travel Master comes into play, offering up to 36 different rod combinations, as well as three different pre-loaded reel spools that are colour coded to match the rod tips. The rods suit nine different fishing styles, and have been constructed from carbon fibre with an additional interwoven layer. The reels feature a 5.5:1 gear ratio, and brass pinion gears.

A balancing system is also utilised, as is a silent anti-reverse. The rod and reel are available separately and come neatly packaged in a handy carry case.

www.ironman4x4.com

UE Boom is a versatile little wireless speaker system that not only sounds fantastic but is water and stain resistant too. The clever shape and design allows you to put the UE Boom anywhere (cup holders work great.) It has a huge run time of 15 hours thanks to the rechargeable battery, which you can actually monitor for charge so you aren’t ever short of music.

Despite its size, the UE Boom features full-balanced sound thanks to dual performance drivers for clear mid-andhigh-range tones, and dual passive radiators ensure there are plenty of deep low frequencies too. And being wireless, means no more speaker docks or charging stations! www.logitech.com/en-au

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UYER’S GUIDE

ACTIVITIES

› ENGEL PICNIC SET

We all love a picnic in a tranquil setting, but often the logistics of organising food and cooking utensils can be daunting enough to decide the afternoon would be better spent on the couch. Fear no more, thanks to the Engel Picnic Set. This clever backpack packages everything you’re going to need for a picnic on the beach or river into a handy backpack.

It arrives with cutlery, plates, mugs, a cutting board and much more. There are even provisions to carry your drinks on the sides of the bag, and there’s enough inside to comfortably feed four hungry adults.

Priced from $79.99

› SEVYLOR INFLATABLE KAYAK

Remember those dodgy inflatable rafts you used to have as a kid? Well, forget everything you remember about them popping after one use.

The range of Sevylor Inflatable Kayaks are built strong, perfect for those who can’t store a full-size rigid kayak at home or on their vehicles, or those looking for something lighter to transport. Available in either single or double seat configuration, as a standalone kayak or even as a package with oars and a hand pump.

Priced from $149 to $520 www.sevylor.com

www.engelaustralia.com.au

Words By Evan Spence

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These are

Australian

hands

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And this is Australian

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5

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FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE

TOURING TRACKS

YOU NEED TO HIT

IVE

A DAY’S DRIVE FROM: BRISBANE

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Stradbroke Fisherman’s Road Stray behind the sand dunes on North Stradbroke Island and you’ll discover Fisherman’s Road, also known as the number plate cruncher. It traverses through heathlands and marshlands, past lakes and lagoons and at times through some very deep bog holes.

A high-clearance four-wheel drive fitted with a snorkel is recommended as these holes may be not be only wide and deep but additionally have steep drop-offs. Walking water crossings before driving them is a must.

Entry and exit is either from the southern end via Tarzi Road or the northern approach from Main Beach. It’s just a little over 2km south of the beach entry from George Nothling Drive near Point Lookout, the tourist hub of the island. This access and entry point is via a creek bed which in places becomes very narrow and subject to erosion and flooding. You’ll need to time your drive with the tide if exiting here.

There are a few pull-off areas around the lakes for a swim or picnic but other than that there are no facilities.

The lakes are great for kayaks and canoes and wildlife can be prolific, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. The fishing along Main Beach, particularly when the tailor and whiting are running, is fantastic and a great way to finish off the drive.

Rated: Difficult Length: 1 day

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The Condamine

Following an old bullock wagon track, you cross the Condamine River 14 times; this is the headwaters of the mighty Murray-Darling River system.

Boonah, 100km south-west of Brisbane, is the best place to start and finish this drive. Mark the historic Dugandan Hotel, 1km west of Boonah, as a stopping point on your return.

This is a very scenic drive past farms framed by rolling hills. Hauling timber has stopped but the track is still used by locals, walkers, trail bikers and horse riders. Many of the river crossings have grassed areas suitable for pulling over.

If you have an eager eye you might even see a platypus.

Queen Mary Falls, tumbling 400m, remains one of the main attractions, but don’t overlook pulling up for the shorter walks to falls such as Daggs, which can often be just as spectacular.

The Condamine River Road is closed when there has been heavy rain. The river itself often carries large boulders and trees and can rise very quickly. Vehicles have drowned, so walking crossings is strongly advised, but be careful. Please obey road closed signs as it’s the only access for some locals in an emergency.

Camping and cabins are available at the privately owned and pet-friendly Queen Mary Falls Caravan Park and there are B&Bs along the track and accommodation options in Killarney and Boonah.

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THREE

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Border Ranges

Along this drive you will skirt the rims of ancient volcanoes through rainforest and have access to camping areas, walking trails, lookouts and local wares. While it is easily accomplished in a one day drive from Brisbane we do recommend you consider an overnight stay.

Heading from Beaudesert, approximately 65km south-west of Brisbane, this easy drive follows the bitumen along the Mount Lindsey Highway. After leaving the highway on Innisplain Road, take the dirt detour under the railway bridge to your left which crosses Running Creek many times before re-joining the tar – it’s more scenic.

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CAPTURED

Ros Woodham Location: Simpson Desert

1/8000sec f4.0 ISO800 Canon EOS 70D

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THREE

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Ancient rainforest

After you cross the border of Queensland and NSW you are officially on Lions Road, a community-built road. There’s a donation box there, so take few minutes and throw in a few gold coins.

There are lookouts one after another, walks, villages with fresh produce and market stalls and amazing flora and flora as you wind through the Border Ranges National Park. Permits are required for vehicle day use and camping in all areas of the Border Ranges and Mebbin National Parks. Day vehicle registration stations are at each park’s entry and exits – take the correct amount of change.

Call into Buck’s at Chillingham for the best (and some unusual varieties of) fruit and vegetables

Forest Tops camping and day-use area

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Cooloola Recreation Area

To one side as you drive you have towering cliffs of coloured sand, and to the other, the wide open ocean and battering surf.

It would have to be Queensland’s best on-shore collection of sand cliffs, but along with that there’s Carlo Sand Blow stretching more than 15ha to see, and the million-dollar car wash around Mudlo Rocks to navigate.

From Brisbane, head north about 126km to Cooroy. Cross the Noosa River on the vehicle barge and continue towards the beach. Make sure you have your Vehicle Access Permit displayed.

This is some beach drive! There’s camping areas along the Teewah Beach Camping Zone, at Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area and at Freshwater Campground. You’ll need to pre-book.

As with all beach drives: time it, folks, with the tide. Mudlo has earned its reputation well with an average of one vehicle a week getting lost to the tide.

There is an alternative route but you miss some magnificent coloured sand cliffs.

This drive can also be easily added onto Fraser Island via Inskip Point for those interested in an extended touring option.

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4

FOUR

DID YOU KNOW? THERE ARE AN ESTIMATED 72 HUES IN THE COLOURED SAND CLIFFS ON RAINBOW BEACH?

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BRISBANE’S GREATEST FAMILY 4WD, CAMPING, FISHING & BOATING SHOW

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FIVE

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Duck Creek Road

This is a great day drive from Brisbane into the farmlands of the Scenic Rim, ending at the World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park and O’Reilly’s.

The O’Reillys are the original family that settled the area and they still live here surrounded by lush rainforest and run the rainforest retreat.

Duck Creek Road, best accessed south of Beaudesert, is a do-it-yourself road built by the local community from 1980-1988. You’ll see signs along the way of sites auctioned to raise revenue to maintain the road. Hence the donation box for us to add our two bob into to be able to access the track.

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FIVE

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It’s a windy road to the top, twisting and in places narrow. There are pull-off areas at the lookouts but no facilities until you reach the O’Reilly’s guest area. Through a changing vegetation of grasslands to dry eucalypt and then temperate rainforest, the clay parts of the track can become very slippery after rain.

Camping is permitted in the Green Mountains Camping Area near O’Reilly’s, and there is free access to many walks ranging from short to multi-day hikes. Top tip: Look carefully for the satin bower bird that’s been nesting for years not far from the ranger’s information centre, and don’t leave anything blue out.

At night you may see one of the many frogs that call Lamington home: some endangered and rare

Rated: Easy to medium Length: One day Make sure you stop and throw in a couple of gold coins in the donation box

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UNSEALED 4X4’s

FAVOURITE

TRACKS

YOU

PROBABLY

DON’T KNOW ABOUT

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If you’re like us then you suffer from a bit of the old “where to next” syndrome, so we thought we’d whet your appetite to get out there and try some different, alternate unsealed tracks. And we didn’t just list a bunch of wacky, inaccessible tracks either – there’s a good chance you might be able to travel one of them on your next adventure.

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

BIRDSVILLE INSIDE TRACK, SA

Likely to be on most 4X4 enthusiasts’ bucket list of iconic outback roads is the Birdsville Track. But few consider the alternative when travelling between Marree and Birdsville – the ‘Birdsville Inside Track’.

The 140km track was the original stock route in and out of Birdsville from the south and saw many a drover pass by; as well as our own Tom Kruse (not to be confused with the actor). Tom traversed the landscape in his Leyland Badger on his fortnightly mail run between Maree and Birdsville from 1936 through to the early 1950s.

The Inside Track arguably provides more varied scenery, landscape and wildlife as it traverses gibber plains, sandy dunes and the flood plains of the Goyder Lagoon.

Although closed regularly after heavy Queensland rains, the track is currently open and it offers a shorter run into Birdsville from the south compared to the more commonly travelled ‘Outside Track’.

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USELESS LOOP ROAD – Shark Bay, WA Travel back in time with Dutch seafarers and discover Steep Point (the westernmost point of mainland Australia) and Dirk Hartog Island via the Useless Loop Road. The only vehicle access to Steep Point is via this road, But what lies at the end is simply breathtaking.

Located in the Southern region of the world heritage-listed Shark Bay Marine Park, the Useless Loop Road services the solar salt operations of Useless Loop, and now also provides access to the spectacular Zuytdorp Cliffs of Steep Point as well as arguably one of the best land-based game fishing spots in the country.

Along the way, there’s real ‘getaway’ beach style camping via Tamala Station (bookings essential) with the last 30km into Steep Point through very soft sand dunes and therefore, lower tyre pressures are a must. Steep Point also offers pre-booked, self-sufficient beachside camping and is the access point to the historic Dirk Hartog Island.

Proposed to be made into the Edel Land National Park, with its uninterrupted ocean views, spectacular natural blowholes and marine life in abundance, this whole area really is an ocean lover’s paradise

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THERE‘S MODULES AND THEN THERE‘S MODULES SO WHAT‘S THE DIFFERENCE?

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“TWO ROADS DIVERGED IN A WOOD, AND I…I TOOK THE ONE LESS TRAVELLED BY, AND THAT HAS MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.” — ROBERT FROST

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

THE OLD GHAN – Alice Springs to Finke, NT

If you’re a 4X4-driving, railway history buff, then this one is for you! The Old Ghan Railway Track between Alice Springs and Finke literally runs on top of the original railway itself; creating a real driver’s challenge in avoiding the old steel rail spikes from the original railway track. Many a bush flat has been created by these tyre poppers over the years, but keep your pressures down and drive slowly and you’re generally fine – trust me!

There’s dozens of old railway sidings which have information boards explaining their history and many still have the remains of original homesteads and water tanks.

As well as railway history (and spikes), there’s a 60km detour through Maryvale station to Chambers Pillar – an imposing 50-metre pillar of sandstone towering above the surrounding plain.

It’s well worth the side trip and also provides an alternate campsite option along the way.

Back on the track and closer to Alice Springs, the rock carvings of Ewaninga offer yet more variety with ancient Aboriginal petroglyphs carved into the sandstone.

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NEXT GENERATION ENGEL IT’S A FREEZER! IT’S A FRIDGE!

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For stockists call 1300 302 653 or visit www.engelaustralia.com.au

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DARLING RIVER RUN – Walgett to Wentworth, NSW A trip in itself, you can do all or part of the Darling River Run, which meanders its way along the iconic Darling River to join up with the mighty Murray at Wentworth. I prefer to start this one at the Outback town of Bourke, camping on the Darling River and then heading southwest through the towns of Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia, Menindee, Pooncarie and finally Wentworth.

Kallara Station near Tilpa and Trilby Station at Louth.

The history of the Darling River itself in supporting these outback towns is still present, with still-operating paddle steamers and transport history all along the lengths of its banks.

It’s certainly not a difficult track in terms of 4X4 challenges, but for a trip steeped Along the way there are National Parks in early pioneering history, it’s well worth taking the time to explore. campsites, numerous bush camps as well as fantastic station stays such as NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

Water & Fuel Solutions

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DINOSAUR DREAMING – Winton to Bedourie via the Diamantina River, QLD Keeping the kids amused can be a challenge when touring. But a decent helping of fossilised dinosaur history can help keep young minds turning – not to mention the young at heart entertained. Not only does the Central Western Queensland town of Winton have a couple of great pubs, there’s also the Waltzing Matilda Museum, as well as one of the best dinosaur fossil collections in the country at the Age of Dinosaurs Museum.

Southwest of Winton is the world’s only known recorded Dinosaur stampede – fossilised into the rock at the Lark Quarry conservation

park. This truly has to be seen to be believed. It is quite spectacular!

Head West through Old Cork station and then further southwest through the Diamantina National Park and you’re really into Outback Queensland ‘Channel Country’. Here you’ll find some terrific campsites along the Diamantina River with water birds in abundance and pastoral relics a plenty.

Pulling into Bedourie, you can enjoy a swim in the artesian bath or buy yourself a genuine spun steel Bedourie camp oven, before having a meal at the Bedourie Hotel.

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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CLICK HERE TO VIEW ARB’S PRODUCT RANGE

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HOW TO: ROCK DRIVING

“ROCK DRIVING SURE BEATS WALKIN’.”

– JOHN CADOGAN

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ROCK DRIVING

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America has a wonderful environment they call slick rock, where there are massive flat rock shelves on the edge of the desert that are absolutely devoid of vegetation. This is one of the most high traction environments on Earth, and is great fun to drive on. Australia doesn’t really have slick rock, except perhaps for a few lonesome granite boulders around the ACT region.

While we have plenty of rock, ours is usually a mixture of rock and dirt. You can find loose shaly rocks at places like Rocky Track in Victoria, sandstone escarpment like around Sydney, or the big rounded boulders and rocks that find their way into rivers and streams right across the continent. So usually, our rock is not just plain old rock, it can be mixed with sand, mud, water or dirt. And in this way, it’s usually a little more challenging than plain old rock.

ROCK DRIVING BASICS • Lower tyre pressures

• Engage first-gear low range • Use a guide in tough spots • Know the location of your underbody components

• Use track-building rather than speed to get over obstacles

ACCESSORIES • Tyre deflators • Tyre gauge • Air compressor • Recovery kit • Winch

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A guide out front could save you a big damage bill

Low tyre pressures help the tyre to conform to the shape of the rock

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ROCK DRIVING

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ROCK PREP Rock is no different to a lot of offroad environments – if you want to achieve maximum traction, you’ll do well to let some air out of your tyres.

Most beginners will quite sensibly question the logic of this, because surely when you let air out of your tyres, you lose ground clearance?

And they’re right – you do lose a small amount of clearance provided by the fully inflated tyres, but not so much that it matters.

drives are relatively well tucked to minimise this sort of damage, but continual pounding can create havoc. Vulnerable parts can include fuel tanks, low-slung radiators, and soft metal exhaust pipes. Solid moulded mud flaps are another bugbear of mine, as their lack of flexibility means they snap off at the first minor obstacle.

Get to know the undercarriage of your four-wheel drive before you go and do any serious rock driving.

Look for any vulnerable parts that could get damaged. And while you’re Your far greater advantage is gained there, try to create a mental picture in through allowing your tyre to mould your head of your 4X4’s underbody. to the rocks, grabbing each rock Every vehicle has its peculiarities. and holding onto it. In fact, in the For example, your diff pumpkin (the recent sport of rock racing, many bulbous bit hanging down between tyre companies like BFGoodrich your wheels) may sit to the left of have designed specific super-soft centre. With this knowledge, you compound tyres that are extra flexible so they ‘grab’ the rocks better. might be able to manoeuvre around that rock in the middle of the track.

The actual tyre pressure you will You might have a V8 with massively need is up to you, but if you’ve got a expensive mufflers hanging very low, standard vehicle with standard-sized ready to get a mouthful of rock. tyres, 16 to 18psi is a good starting point. Of course, this is strictly for There are countless examples of low-range, first gear-type speeds. things that can get damaged, but if you know where yours are, you’ll Rocks are one terrain where the do a better job of keeping them slowest speed is the best speed. protected. Popping your vehicle up In most cases, you’ll want to keep on a mechanic’s hoist is ideal, but momentum to a minimum, as the if that’s not available, slipping it up grip offered should most often be onto a gutter for a look will do just sufficient to get you through an fine. As long as you can have a good obstacle. And keeping your speeds scratch around, you’ll be fine. And low will minimise damage. You see, rocks rarely budge, so if you hit them while you’re there, keep an eye out too hard, expect something to break. for any rust traps or oil leaks!

The underbodies of most four-wheel

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ECOTIPS

Track building is a great way to preserve the track and preserve your 4X4 by making the drive easier.

Just remember to only use materials from the track itself. For example, don’t go scurrying off into the bush to find the perfect rock or tree limb.

Chances are you’ll find what you need on the track without disturbing the nearby environment.

COMMON MISTAKES

Too much speed can lead to punctured sumps, bent steering arms, and cracked diff housings.

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CV joints are the final and weakest link between the wheel and the engine. Like most joints, they work best in a straight line, but some four-wheel drivers tend to ‘saw’ left and right on the steering wheel in an attempt to get traction – this is when CVs break. They make a costly trackside repair, and that’s only if you’re carrying a new replacement.

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ROCK DRIVING

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How ERPS Works

Choosing an ERPS System

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• Prevents Rust • Protects not only the outside of vehicles but also all the inner and hidden areas that traditional sprays can’t reach • Prevents stone chips from developing into protusion rust • Maintains vehicle resale value • Unmatched record of 19 years • of Australian manufacturing • Saves on maintenance costs • Enhances paintwork NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

ROCK DRIVING

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THE DRIVE

engine releases a powerful surge, often giving you too much power Slow is most definitely the go for rocky too fast. You can end up spinning terrain, and low-range first gear is really tyres and bounding over the rocks, the only option. If your vehicle has rather than slowly meandering. Large inadequate low-range gearing, you have capacity turbo-diesels are often the the option (depending on vehicle model) better choice here, as they idle up and of fitting aftermarket rock-crawler gears. over near-vertical rock shelves.

The two most popular brands are Marks Whenever you’re in difficult off-road Adapters and Rockhopper, and these terrain, but particularly in rocks, you make a wonderful difference to your should always place your thumbs vehicle. They replace the original lowon top of the steering wheel. Many range gears in your 4X4’s transfer case a thumb has been broken when the with much lower gears. You can go so front wheels have caught on a rock, slow with these gears, that you’ll often causing the steering wheel to spin only need to use second or third-gear uncontrollably in the driver’s hands. low range, because first is simply too This is a great habit to get into no low. But they give you fantastic throttle matter the type of low-range terrain. control, which is really important in the rocks. Throttle control is really where Wheel placement is critical when it it’s at in the rocks. Automatic 4X4s can comes to rocks, and knowing where all be much easier to handle, but again, it four wheels are at all times is important. depends on your four-wheel drive.

This is the only way you can properly pick the line through a challenging Some small capacity turbo-diesel track. However, unless you have a vehicles that are a joy to drive on photographic memory, it can be difficult the highway can be a real handful to remember exactly what is underneath off-road. As the turbo spins up, the your 4X4 vehicle at all times.

There is plenty of aftermarket protection equipment available for rock hounds, like side rails and this diff hat from ARB

Aftermarket differential locks can give you a lot more traction in difficult terrain

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WHICH TYRES SUIT THE TERRAIN YOU DRIVE ON?

You need a round edge all-terrain tyre

OR

Serious dirt, gravel & rocks

You need a square edge all-terrain tyre

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ROCK DRIVING

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This is why you might like to have a guide out front to show you the way, and let you know if you’re in any trouble. Not only can this save you plenty in damage bills, it can also be good fun to get others involved out there on the track. The guide can either use hand movements to show the way, or better still, use a CB radio to guide the driver through.

section where you’ve lost traction.

You’ll be amazed at how easy the track seems after that.

As far as traction aids are concerned, accessories like differential locks do work great in the rocks, especially in Australia where the rocks are mixed with other low-grip surfaces like mud. I like to use a rear diff lock first, and then go for a front diff lock later on when the obstacle is seriously Yet, sometimes even a great guide out front may not get you through a tough. The front locker also limits your ability to steer, so keep this in difficult section, so you might need mind if you have to weave in and out to do some rock packing. Rather than continually spinning wheels and of obstacles. belting your vehicle up against an obstacle, modifying the track should As challenging as rock driving can be, when you get it right, it’s one of be one of the first options you take. the most rewarding experiences you Just grab a nearby rock or some can have off-road. fallen timber and slip it into the

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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10

THINGS YOU’LL

PROBABLY

FORGET TO BRING

ON YOUR NEXT 4X4

ADVENTURE We’ve all been there, hours away from home, somewhere between the middle of nowhere and the corner of lost, only to discover that we’ve forgotten something.

Whether it was a cloudy day and you didn’t think to grab the sunnies, or it was an absolute scorcher and the

idea of a jacket was comical – it happens to the best of us, and we all know that it, well… sucks. So we’ve sat down with a few of our readers and developed a list of the mostforgotten items on 4X4 touring adventures with the hope that it’ll at least make one person’s trip a little bit better.

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GIVE IT A READ,

IT

MIGHT JUST SA VE YOUR REAR-EN D SOMETIME IN THE FUTURE.

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› LET ME THROUGH

I didn’t so much forget as fail to allow the required number of weeks rather than days for permits and passes to be processed. A 2,000km detour made me swear not to repeat that mistake. My defence is we were on an extended trip and weren’t sure what dates we would be travelling the Great Central Road. Also keep in mind the growing trend for National Parks to remove self-registration stations and require you to register for your campsite online and print the permit. (Or pack a printer and hope you have internet).

one

› GET ME OUT OF HERE

And the award for the best story goes to the mate who went solo on a sand drive with a 7-month pregnant wife. With his exhaust jack and shovel safely at home; he frantically dug himself out with a lunch box, praying that her enthusiasm for their predicament wouldn’t bring on the baby.

Shovels seem to like to stay at home, along with snatch straps, tyre deflators and gauges, air compressors and jumper cables.

The hand held for the two way and winch controller are always in the glove box…. aren’t they?

two

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34 three › WHERE AM I?

Final trip reviews at the dining room table the night before you’re scheduled to leave have nearly resulted in more than one trip to the divorce courts. It’s not the stress of the route changes that’s the worry, it’s the fact that you left the map sitting at home and your navigator is trying to remember the way without the precisely marked up maps, guidebooks or GPS.

› HELP!

Forgetting the satellite phone and locator beacon can have deadly consequences in an emergency.

Fortunately for my mates, this hasn’t resulted in anything worse than near-fatal arguments. Remember that when you’re in the bush, worried spouses can’t be advised that although the road is underwater, the off-road wanderers they’re trying to keep track of are safe.

four

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DON’T BE THE ODD ONE OUT.

Subscribe to Unsealed 4X4.

Subscribe to Unsealed 4X4 for free. Your subscription will land in your inbox, so you never miss a magazine.

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five › BLINDED BY THE LIGHT

Leaving home in the pre-dawn dark makes it easy to forget the sunglasses. Why? Because the last thing you’re thinking of in the dark is covering your eyes. Actually, it would seem the last thing you’re thinking about is glasses, period, so let’s not forget about those who need them to read. Buy a spare set and keep them in the truck. Trust us, if you don’t forget a pair, someone you’re travelling with certainly will.

› DOCTOR DOCTOR

More than one vehicle has been turned around to collect essential prescription medicine. But the first aid kit can be forgotten until it’s urgently required. Make sure you add antihistamines to the kit, as well as diarrhoea and motion sickness pills. The latter can save a back seat passenger from a miserable day on winding roads and allow you to enjoy those same curves from behind the wheel.

six

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

› MORE POWER PLEASE

To avoid carrying dead weight, make sure you have the charger cables or spare batteries for phones, GPS, iPads, laptops, cameras and torches. Yeah sure, you’re getting away from it all… until you have to send that text, or take that picture or check that work email.

8

seven

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8 › OOH THAT ITCHES AND BURNS

DO NOT forget the insect repellent unless you want the sacred sound of silence in the bush interrupted by yelps, curses, slaps and the ssskkk-ssskkk of continual scratching. Never, ever forget the sunblock and hat, as the charm of a swag under the stars is instantly forgotten as a sunburned back tries to get comfortable on a thin mattress on hard ground.

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3 X

D ATE V I C ACT OMI E L R P TRI TOCH

ion t a v i t c A iL fetimWearranty*

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Our unique Photochromic lenses seamlessly react to your total environment - even behind the windscreen of your car - giving you enhanced depth perception and the perfect level of activation for your needs all day, every day.

Lens Adjusts

> Cloudy or Overcast > Transitional Light > Dawn or Dusk > Fog

Spotters’ World Exclusive Photochromic lenses are Triple Activated by a combination of UV, general light and temperature. The atomic Silver Halide crystals that form our unique photochromic filters are embedded between layers of Crown Glass, ensuring a continuous and seamless activation loop from light to dark and back again in record time.

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Polarised Performance Eyewear

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9

10 ten

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› IS IT READY YET?

The camp kitchen is fraught with opportunities for memory failure and everyone has a tale of forgotten can or bottle openers; stoves without cartridges or grill plates; cylinders without hoses (another personal oops); or tea, coffee and cups… but no billy. Or everything but the matches and firelighters.

nine

› BUT DON’T THEY TRAVEL IN PAIRS?

The fatal brain bomb of many is packing component A and assuming that component B has also been racked and stacked. Think tents without poles or pegs, swags and sleeping bags without pillows, fishing rod and tackle but no reel, bathers without towels, or bikes without helmets.

AND FINALLY, IT JUST HAS TO BE SAID BECAUSE EVERYONE’S DONE IT….

DON’T FORGET YOUR TOOTHBRUSH! OR THE DUCT TAPE; YOU CAN FIX ALMOST ANYTHING WITH DUCT TAPE.

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OUTBACK GOURMET

BUSH

VANILLA SLICES IT DIDN’T MATTER IF IT WAS MY GIRLS WHEN THEY WERE LITTLE, OR GNARLY HARDENED SHEARERS. BIG OR LITTLE, OLD OR YOUNG, THESE DEAD-EASY SLICES WERE ALWAYS A HIT.

METHOD Place a layer of SAO biscuits in the bottom of your container.

Measure sugar and custard powder into the saucepan and combine with a little cold milk to form a lumpless paste.

Transfer to a heat source and stir while adding most of the milk, don’t add the whole lot until you see how thick the custard turns out.

When the custard is thick and does not fall off the spoon, pour over the SAO biscuits in the container and spread evenly.

While custard is still warm place another layer of SAO biscuits over the custard and press down firmly.

Place container in the Engel and refrigerate 'til cool.

In a small bowl measure in the icing sugar and drop in the food colouring, spoon in the water and stir all together to form a paste.

Smooth icing over the top of the slices and return to the the Engel to become completely cold before serving.

Have for morning tea along the track somewhere.

By Jo Clews

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TIPS

INGREDIENTS

• Substitute 3 heaped desert spoons of milk powder and 400-500ml of water instead of real milk.

> 1 packet of SAO biscuits

• Make slices at breakfast time so they will be good and cold for morning tea.

> 400-500ml milk

• I choose to use Foster Clarks custard powder but any brand will do.

• Pre-made cartons of custard will not work as they are too runny.

> 3 heaped desert spoons of Custard powder > 3 heaped desert spoons of Sugar > 4 heaped desert spoons of icing sugar > 3 drops of red food colouring > 2 desert spoons of water > 1 tray or container to fit 6 SAO biscuits > 1 saucepan > Wooden spoon

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FAILED ELECTRO

LEFT ME ST

IN THE OUTBAC

$12,000

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ONICS

TRANDED

READER STORY GOT A GREAT IDEA? LET US KNOW

CK AND COST

0 TO FIX

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We were on a four month trip “around” Australia. It was about six months after the Queensland floods, and the great body of floodwater was tracking towards Lake Eyre, Australia’s plug-hole. We had just made it to Birdsville, only to find that the Simpson Desert was “closed” due to flooding. It was the first thing to go wrong in a series of unfortunate events over the next few weeks.

Trying to make the best of it, we then tracked south, west and then north,

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Shop

skirting the desert’s periphery. The Outback was freakishly green and full of mice that had been forcefully relocated by the flood waters.

Our first stop for the trip was at the tranquil Dalhousie Springs, where we spent the first night approximately five metres downwind of the drop loos. Needless to say, we relocated our tents and vehicles to a less odorous location the next day, and enjoyed a more pleasant evening.

We had a good chuckle when a fellow

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camper told us about the Mercedes test team that recently had to tow their test vehicles out of the Simpson due to breakdowns. Weren’t we feeling smug!

The next morning was going fine, that is until we tried to start our 2006 Land Rover Discovery 3. There was nothing, not even the glow of an interior light.

This was indeed puzzling, especially as we had had no draw whatsoever on the battery overnight, and it was now reading just five volts. It was a

bonding experience for the blokes at camp looking under the bonnet, and soon enough every old codger at Dalhousie had his head under there too, providing unsolicited technical assistance and advice. The overall consensus was that we should be driving a 1950s Holden, or a vehicle without any electronics whatsoever.

We proceeded to swap out the flat battery for a fresh one, and still nothing. During the “tinker-time,” a mouse was spotted hiding in the

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insulation under the manifold.

One of the mice displaced by the floods had relocated to our engine bay and made its home out of our wiring – or so we thought at the time. With no facilities at Dalhousie, and no other choices, we decided to road-tow the Disco to Mount Dare, 70km away.

It was a strenuous four hour drive to say the least. Three-and-a-half tons without power steering or power brakes and air suspension riding on the bump stops, not to mention the dust from the tow vehicle billowing in. Further male bonding occurred at Mount Dare, as every third person there seemed to be an auto mechanic. It was quickly decided that transport to Alice Springs was necessary, and so we contacted NRMA and arranged for a tilt-tray. It wasn’t easy doing this via satellite phone as they thought we were calling from Iridium’s headquarters in America, and therefore weren’t legitimately in need.

After drumming up an address for Mount Dare, the tow truck turned up earlier than we expected the following morning. I was having a morning brew and watched it meander through the campsite. I recall thinking some poor bugger had broken down, but when he stopped in front of our car, reality kicked back in. The driver, Jim, had a good sense of humour and we stopped along the way for photos, arriving in Alice around 4pm.

The car was taken to the local Alice Springs Land Rover dealer, who were confident they would have it going in no time. We sat around in Alice for a few days watching the washing dry, twiddling our thumbs and then finally

decided to rent a car for a week in order see the sights. It was difficult to find an appropriate vehicle as many of the hire companies don’t want to rent to the NRMA as that only gets them the corporate rate, anyway, we ended up with a dual-cab Hilux. We bought a tarp and cargo net to secure the luggage, and ransacked the Disco to grab essentials such as the tent and food.

Upon our return to Alice a week or so later we discovered they still hadn’t fixed it. The technicians from Land Rover were scratching their heads, and we were getting stressed and worried.

Our four month vacation was dwindling down, day by day, and the money that was meant to be spent on travelling was slowly being fed to Land Rover.

Eventually it was proposed that the Disco’s main ECU had been “zapped”.

Apparently there are six computers, controlling everything from the suspension to the transmission, interior, and engine. All of these computers talk to each other, identified by the vehicle’s VIN number, making it impossible to merely swap in a unit from another vehicle. Naturally, Land Rover Australia did not have a spare, and quoted us a massive sum, and more disturbingly — six to eight weeks for one to be delivered from the UK. A company in Adelaide (whom we subsequently put on speed dial) claimed that they could re-assign and repair a used computer, so we sent the old ECU to them. They copied the old data and sent it to a programmer in Perth to be “scripted” and loaded onto the replacement ECU. After another week or so of waiting, hoping luck would be on our side, this was found to be unsuccessful.

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Backed into a corner, we decided to take the problem out of the hands of Land Rover, and arranged for all six computers, a diagnostics system, and a factory-trained technician to be flown in from Adelaide to do a major multi-organ transplant. In essence, we were planning to change out all of the electronics in one hit, sourced from a vehicle involved in a roll-over, but still running. Apart from the fact that one computer somehow missed the flight, this proved to be a successful fix. But this meant that our vehicle has now

stolen the computer-identity of the donor vehicle, including its VIN number and subsequent mileage.

Three weeks after the computer failed at Dalhousie Springs, the Land Rover was finally drivable again. After adding up the tow bills, repairs, parts, labour, accommodation and flights, the bill was over $12,000. Luckily, after countless conversations with our insurance company, they ended up covering most of the bill — finally, a stroke of good luck.

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Not long after this, we sold the Land Rover, and purchased a Toyota.

Unfortunately, we’ll never get the three weeks of what was supposed to be relaxing vacation back.

The general consensus from those involved in the convoluted repair process was narrowed down to two scenarios. The first was that the car battery was flattened due to cold weather and old age, and whilst initially attempting to jump start it, the on-board computers somehow got zapped. The other opinion is that the battery cells collapsed due to the heavily-corrugated roads and shorted out internally, destroying the battery, which spiked the computers.

Subsequent inspection of the original ECUs showed burning and major voltage spike damage. Whatever the cause, we have been assured that our problem was an incredibly rare occurrence, and that our vehicle, and Land Rovers in general, are definitely up to the challenge of four-wheel drive touring. I must say that after our computer debacle, we travelled a further 19,000kms without so much as a backfire. Until the engine had a catastrophic failure and blew up six months later.

By Viv Collins

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What’s your worst breakdown?

Did you get it fixed? Tell us!

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Have an amazing story like this? We’ll give you $500 for it.

Each month our editor will choose the best reader-submitted story to get published in Australia’s most-read 4X4 magazine.

Send your ideas to: editor@unsealed4x4.com.au.

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HIGH PERFORMANCE

THE UNSEALED 4X4 GUIDE TO ENGINE PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

After a few years of driving, and a couple of hundred kilograms of added accessories later, your near-new 4X4 might not feel so new anymore. Luckily, when it comes to safely extracting every inch of capability from your engine, there are a handful of proven techniques guaranteed to put a smile on your dial. It doesn’t matter if your definition of performance is straight out brute power, better fuel economy or even a mixture of both. This 4X4 performance upgrade guide has your needs covered, as we showcase the best ways to motivate your 4X4.

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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UNSEALED 4X4 GUIDE TO PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

WHEN YOU NEED IT

If you tow or carry big loads, we guarantee there has been at least one occasion where you would have gladly made a deal with the devil in exchange for more power. The same goes for long distance tourers who need to cover big kilometres through traction sapping slippery, sandy or steep terrain. Also, perhaps your older 4X4 is set up the way you like it, but has trouble keeping up with the latest and greatest 4X4 on the highway. Why sell a truck that works, simply because it could be improved in one area? It doesn’t matter what you drive, there is always a way to make it perform better.

WHEN YOU DON’T NEED IT

If you love heading into remote areas, the best advice is to keep engine modifications to a minimum for the sake of reliability. Tracking down aftermarket parts in the bush can require a university degree in logistics, where factory parts for popular makes and models are generally sourced over the counter in most major regional centres.

Good maintenance will lead to better performance, which is far more important to reliable touring than a hot-rodded engine with horrible fuel economy. Find the balance, and ask yourself: what do you really want your vehicle to do?

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UNSEALED 4X4 GUIDE TO PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

PERFORMANCE CHIPS

DYNAMOMETER TUNING

Dyno tuning is the most accurate method of determining if your engine is performing to its potential. By running your 4X4 under simulated loads on a rolling road, specialised dyno tuners will be able to measure power production figures as well as the extremely important air-fuel ratio (AFR) readings; then optimise this mixture to suit your situation.

You might be searching for a more conservative tune with better fuel economy on the highway or around town — or on the other end of the scale the maximum amount of power safely available. A chat with a reputable dyno specialist to determine your needs and expectations will be the best place to start. Also, a good practise is to have your 4X4 dyno tuned after any performance modification has been undertaken. This proves you are getting the most from the upgrade and that you aren’t potentially damaging your engine in the process.

The world of performance chips is filled with massive claims. Some manufacturers even claim gains of up to 35 per cent more power while delivering 10 per cent better fuel economy at the same time, all with just a simple plug-and-play install.

Performance chips work in many different ways depending on the brand. Some work by increasing fuel rail pressure, others increase turbo boost, and some change injector pulse timing. Naturally, some chips are more advanced than others so it pays to do your research into which unit works best with your 4X4. Essentially, performance chips put more fuel into the engine while tricking management systems into accepting this new power increase.

For best results, combine chips with a free-flowing exhaust and a few hours with an experienced dyno tuner. This will highlight any gains, as well as ensuring correct operating parameters for long lasting trouble free (powerful) motoring.

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AFTERMARKET TURBO SYSTEMS

EXHAUST UPGRADES

Engines need to breathe to perform better. If you don’t understand this principle, imagine going for a jog with a sock in your mouth and see how far you get before running out of puff! By removing restrictions in your exhaust system, spent gasses can escape the combustion process quicker. What this means is more air and fuel can then enter, creating a bigger bang – simple, right? Take one look at the factory exhaust on your 4X4, and then an aftermarket exhaust system. It’s safe to say the difference in material quality, pipe diameter, bends and overall construction will be easy to spot.

Most manufacturers claim better fuel economy and power gains of up to 10 per cent simply by fitting a mandrel bent, larger diameter exhaust. Oh, and don’t forget how much nicer a set of decent pipes will sound, too…

If you own a naturally-aspirated diesel engine, or a factory turbodiesel there is one sure-fire way wake the sleeping beast inside.

Aftermarket turbo systems fitted to a diesel engine can offer major increases in power and torque over stock. And just like the tyres and shock absorbers fitted to your 4X4 from the factory, the original turbo fitted may in fact not even be the most efficient item for your engine – it’s more likely to be the cheapest that would do the job. A turbo upgrade is a task best left to the professionals, as the results could be catastrophic if you get the tuning side of things wrong. With a welltuned and correctly installed turbo however, you can expect increases in horsepower and torque from 15-40% depending on your make and model.

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UNSEALED 4X4 GUIDE TO PERFORMANCE UPGRADES

INTERCOOLERS

SNORKELS AND RAISED INTAKES

Fact: Engines love cold air. The cooler the air the denser it is, meaning more precious oxygen is available for the combustion process. Cold air keeps engine temperatures lower, meaning the vehicle will perform more efficiently.

Cold air intakes are very common inclusions on performance cars, yet due to the nature of four-wheel driving they could cause more harm than good. Traditional cold air intakes are mouth-like scoops that sit low and forward of the engine to catch cool air – the exact opposite of what you want in a patch of bulldust or in a deep river crossing. This is where snorkels or raised air intakes (as some manufacturers prefer to call them) come into play, by providing cool and clean air for the engine to consume.

An often-overlooked component on factory turbo-diesels (or those of you with a naturally aspirated diesel with an aftermarket turbo) is the humble intercooler. An intercooler works by transmitting heat into the atmosphere, rather than into the engine’s intake. Think of an intercooler as a heat sink, designed to transfer heat from the warm turbo into cooler air perfect for combustion (remember, engines love cool air). The most common types of intercoolers are air-to-air and water-to-air, with air-to-air being favoured by most OEM suppliers and aftermarket systems, too.

This drastically reduces running temperatures, in turn preventing engine failure. Another benefit of an intercooler is the ability to run more boost from the turbo thanks to these reduced intake temperatures.

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ENGINE CONVERSIONS

MAINTENANCE

Just like an athlete, if your engine is out of shape, how can it be expected to perform at its peak? Basic things like advanced/retarded timing, loose throttle cables, dirty sensors, the wrong oil, or blocked injectors will rob you of valuable performance.

Before you spend a cent on upgrades, it is imperative to ensure that what you have is working to its best potential. Anything else will just be a waste of time and money. You might just be surprised at how well your engine actually performs after a diet of healthy servicing.

Sometimes it’s easier, cheaper and just plain smarter to start from scratch, which is why engine conversions will always have their place in the 4X4 scene. Price up the cost on a rebuilt diesel engine versus what it would cost to drop in a fuel injected V8 and we dare say the conversion will start to look mighty appealing. In many cases it’s far more productive to start with an engine that already has the performance you crave right off the showroom floor, too. We have been seeing plenty of people putting Duramax turbo-diesel power plants into their Nissan Patrols and Toyota LandCruisers for example, and the same goes with the Chevy LS V8 range.

The outcome? Let’s just say a few minutes watching engine conversion videos on YouTube will have you weak at the knees after you hear how good these weapons sound! Best of all, there are countless experienced specialists in the engine conversion field these days, so the performance of your dreams is just a swipe of the credit card away.

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AUSTRAL

UNSEALED

LOOKING FOR AN EXCUSE TO GET OUT AND EXPLORE? HERE’S TEN EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS.

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LIA’S BEST

D EVENTS

BIRDSVILLE BIG RED BASH

BEYOND HOTHAM

Why you should make the trek: If country music, camping and great company is your thing, then this is THE place to go. The Big Red Sand Dune (in the Simpson desert) provides a stunning backdrop. Country music legend John Williamson described the bash as “one for all Australians’ bucket list and a true outback experience”.

The Big Red Bash, together the Big Red Run, a 250km ultra marathon across the Simpson Desert, raised almost $200,000 for Type 1 Diabetes research last year. Win! Be sure to check out the nearby Bedourie Camel Races too.

Why you should make the trek:

Pencil in the diary 5th to 6th July

Mount Hotham Resort will play host to 8th annual Beyond Hotham 4X4 event, covering over 600km of the best terrain in northeast Victoria, and southern NSW. Running for 8 days in total, the event kicks off on the 13th of March with two days full of smaller local trips through the area. Once the day trips are out of the way, it’s time to hit the road for six days of adventure through some of them most breath-taking scenery found anywhere in the world.

Pencil in the diary 13th to 21st March Location: Mount Hotham Resort

Location: Big Red Sand Dune, Simpson Desert

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AUSTRALIA’S BEST UNSEALED EVENTS

LOUTH RACES

FESTIVAL OF THE PEARL Why you should make the trek: Tempt your senses with an exciting whirlwind of colour, sound, taste.

Sounds great already! The festival showcases Broome’s natural beauty and diverse character to the outside world, along with the different cultures that have existed harmoniously in Broome for over a century.

The official name is Shinju Matsuri (which is Japanese for “Festival of the Pearl”).

Pencil in the diary 28th August to 6th September Location: Broome, WA

Why you should make the trek: Embrace outback country racing and remote NSW and watch the horses (hopefully your horse first) thunder past the winning post in a cloud of dust. The action isn’t just confined to the Saturday. There’s four days of activities and entertainment at one of the friendliest – and most unique – country race meetings you’ll encounter.

Pencil in the diary 9th August

COMBOYNE GOAT RACES Why you should make the trek: This is something you must see to believe. Whether you are keen to enter or happy to watch – you’re set for a day full of laughs.

Fun and community spirit are high on the agenda.

I have it on official word that if you turn off the highway at Tom Creek Road, a fantastic 4X4 track will greet you, with stunning scenery that you’ve just GOAT to see.

That track leads straight to Comboyne.

Pencil in the diary 15th March Location: Comboyne, NSW

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MORNING GLORY FESTIVAL

THE DENI UTE MUSTER Why you should make the trek: You’ll see the flattest, natural open plains, a great mixture of live music, fun and of course, the ute. The fact that this festival is a notfor-profit community event makes it a tad special.

There’s the option to camp if you are keen to set up shop for the full weekend.

Maybe get amongst the bull riding.

Pencil in the diary 2nd to 3rd of October Location: Deniliquin, NSW

Credit: Outback Queensland Tourism

OPERA IN THE OUTBACK Why you should make the trek: Three-hundred and fifty clicks south west of Cairns, the outback hits its highest note as the operatic circles give a performance like no other in the bush. Pitch a tent, bring your own van or trailer — or there’s the option of staying in a historic rail carriage, too!

Seriously, when is the next time you’ll be able to attend an opera in the bush?

Why you should make the trek: This is a once in a lifetime experience.

Situated between the savannah grasslands and the vast salt pans of the Gulf of Carpentaria, the morning glory clouds are so rare that most people will never see one. The tiny town turns the event on for the visitors and it includes a live concert, rodeo, races and more. Grab the family, get a convoy of 4X4s and head out to see a wonderful sight.

Pencil in the diary Late September Location: Burketown, QLD

Pencil in the diary 9th to 11th October Location: Undara, QLD

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AUSTRALIA’S BEST UNSEALED EVENTS

BIRDSVILLE RACES

HENLEY-ON-TODD RIVER REGATTA Why you should make the trek: Who needs water for a regatta when you have a dry river bed in Alice Springs? Once a year Todd River turns into a race track for a fleet of bottomless, foot powered boats – Flintstone style! This is a treat for the kids at heart. One year the event had to be canned due to flooding – the river had too much water for the race to take place. Ironic.

Why you should make the trek: Fast becoming one of the most popular race meets in Australia, it has been dubbed the Melbourne Cup of the Outback with thousands of racegoers flocking each year. The Birdsville Races are a unique sight to see with quality Outback racing and three great nights of entertainment.

Getting there is perfect for a road trip because all roads leading into Birdsville are UNSEALED! Pencil in the diary 4th to 5th September Location: Birdsville, QLD

Pencil in the diary 15th August Location: Alice Springs, NT

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By Nicole Cooper

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JUST

HOW BIG IS THE RV INDUSTRY

IN AUSTRALIA?

UNSEALED 4X4 TAKES A CLOSER LOOK AT THE FACTS AND FIGURES OF THE INDUSTRY, AND THE NUMBERS MIGHT JUST SURPRISE YOU.

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

It’s little wonder that Australia won the right to host the 2015 World RV Conference, which will see members of the recreational vehicle industry flocking to Melbourne in February.

The Caravan Industry Association of Australia says this nation’s love affair with caravanning and camping continues to grow. Try more than 60 million “visitor nights” a year!

The association has released research showing caravan registrations have experienced a higher rate of increase in recent years than any other vehicle type (5 per cent year-on-year).

There were 528,869 registered RVs in Australia in 2013 – the vast majority caravans and camper trailers – compared to 502,025 in 2012.

As of May 2014, domestic RV production was up 7.4 per cent in a year. All this means an industry generating $7 billion worth of expenditure annually. People aged 3549 account for about half of travellers in this sector, but the new buzz word the RV industry loves is “gramping” – where grandparents take their grandkids on the road with them.

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ABOUT US

MOTORHOMES

CARAVANS

CONTACT

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

4x4 Expedition Vehicles SLR’s range of new generation of 4x4 expedition vehicles are built on years of four wheel drive and adventuring experience. From a compact off road camper, to the most imposing terrain eating machine, SLR are sure to have the ultimate 4x4 motorhome to get you where you need to go........

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Here are some other impressive statistics: • 67.8 million site nights were spent in the caravanning and camping sector in 2012.

45.3 million (67%) were in a caravan holiday park with above 40 sites • Expenditure by caravanning and camping consumers is approximately seven billion dollars annually • 90% of all site nights are in regional Australia • 90% of caravanning and camping activity is undertaken by Australian domestic travellers • The largest user group is 35-49 year olds with approximately 50% of all travel in the sector • There are 170,000 powered and unpowered sites available nightly in Australia. At an average occupancy rate of 54% this means 86,000 sites go unused nightly around the country • There were 528,869 RVs registered in 2013.

Of these registered vehicles, 474,783 are towed product (i.e. caravans, camper trailers, tent trailers) while 54,103 are motorised (i.e. motorhome or campervan) • Caravan registrations increased 5.96% to January 2012 – the highest recorded of any motor vehicle type • 85% of the Australian population has stayed in a caravan holiday park at least once in their life • For every $100 of caravan park revenue, $138 worth of direct economic benefit flows through the local economy • Local RV production in the year ending December 2013 was 20,402 (19,441 towed, 961 motorised). It is estimated up to 10,000 units (mainly camper trailers) may also be imported annually Dan Lewis NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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T S E B E H T 4X4 TOURING WAG

FOR

UNDER $15,000

YOU’LL BE SURPRISED HOW FAR YOUR MONEY WILL GO.

You have to admit, every man, child, woman and dog seems to be going crazy over dual-cab utes at the moment. And for good reason, too! But what if you prefer having your cargo safely stowed inside the cabin of a wagon while exploring? Well there’s good news! Thanks to the extra demand for modern dual-cabs, picking up a second-hand 4X4 wagon has never been easier or cheaper than it is right now.

So, you know you want a wagon but what do you look for if you

have a budget of say $15,000 burning a hole in your pocket?

You can get a serious amount of 4X4 wagon for that price, hopefully with enough change left over to fill up the fuel tank, too. Before you get too excited however, this is the price bracket where neglected or abused vehicles usually end up for a quick sale. It pays to take your time and find the right 4X4.

Here’s the sub $15,000 wagons we would happily park in the Unsealed 4X4 garage.

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GONS

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TOYOTA 105-SERIES LANDCRUISER YEARS MADE: 1998-2007 EXPECT TO PAY: $15,000+ WHO SHOULD BUY ONE: Everyone!

Okay, those that need a tough, reliable and low frills tourer.

The 105-series LandCruiser would have to be one of the most honest 4X4s on the used market. Following on from the success of the 80-series, which will go down in history as one of the most-loved 4X4s in Australia, Toyota have made a good thing better with the 105. What we love about it is the fact it is stripped back, but still looks appealing.

There is plenty of room for the whole family; off-road capability is up there with the best of them, and electrical components are capped to the bare minimum making this one bush-ready tourer.

Think vinyl seats and floors, manual window winders, and part-time 4X4 with manual locking hubs but with coil springs on each corner, a super reliable diesel (or petrol if that’s your poison) engine. Bold prediction, but a 105 Series will be one of those 4X4s you wish you bought and held onto in a few years time. So if you find one today under $15,000 and it hasn’t lived its life on a mine site, grab it!

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NO AIR LINES, NO COMPRESSOR, JUST TRACTION.

Harrop ELocker’s electromagnetic locking, 4 pinion, forged gear design performs as an open differential until you need instant traction. Manufactured in Melbourne utilising Eaton’s patented technology, the ELocker has a simple ‘drop in’ fitting process and allows the front and rear axles to lock independently. Each ELocker is engaged at the push of an electronic button. Now proudly available from Terrain Tamer.

AUSTRALIAN MADE | 3 YEAR WARRANTY | ELECTROMAGNETIC LOCK Phone 1300 888 444 terraintamer.com

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NISSAN Y61 GU PATROL YEARS MADE: 1997- Current EXPECT TO PAY: $12,000 - $15,000+ WHO SHOULD BUY ONE: If you have broken CV joints or diff centres in the past, buy a GU and never have the problem again.

We all know the GQ Patrol was a tough old thing, but the more modern GU is tougher again. Not only is the GU stronger than the GQ in terms of driveline components, but it rides, handles and just plain drives better too, thanks to the modern fixtures utilised.

With a variety of engines to choose from, there are more GUs on the market than nearly any other 4X4. This means picking up the buy of the century is as easy as opening up the classifieds.

If you see a GU with the venerable 4.2L TD42 engine, make it yours!

However for under $15,000 you will more than likely come across plenty of RD28 (2.8L) or ZD30 (3.0L) turbodiesel power plants. If petrol power is your thing, the TB45 and TB48 motors are reliable and powerful as the sun, but like a drink like a sailor. The good news is many will have been fitted with LPG conversions already, significantly reducing the running costs.

Pay close attention to off-road damage when shopping for a prospective GU, as it’s fair to say most have been used off-road. While they are plenty tough enough to take it, with the amount of vehicles on offer, why settle for something that has been potentially abused?

Cape York

Be there. See that. Do that.

Buy an Ultimate. www.ultimateoffroadcampers.com.au

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“...THE PAJERO IS AS CAR-LIKE AS YOU CAN GET A MID-SIZE 4X4 WAGON...”

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MITSUBISHI PAJERO THIRD GENERATION YEARS MADE: 2000-2006 EXPECT TO PAY: $12,000+ WHO SHOULD BUY ONE: Keen long distance tourers, or those seeking a comfortable ride on- and off-road

In many ways the third generation Mitsubishi was ahead of its time.

Utilising independent suspension on all four corners, and a monocoque chassis to offer a silky-smooth ride over undulating terrain, the Pajero offers unrivalled on-road and fast dirt road performance.

Basically the Pajero is as car-like as you can get a mid-size 4X4 wagon, and if your idea of 4X4 adventure is cresting sand dunes, driving extended distances on dirt and corrugations, or pottering around National Parks, the Pajero is hard to beat. Sure it lacks some of off-road ability in extreme situations, but there isn’t much a third generation Pajero couldn’t tackle with a decent set of tyres, a mild suspension lift and perhaps a diff lock or two. It just might have a wheel in the air while doing so.

As a side note, the 3.2L turbo-diesel engine powering the Gen III Pajero is our pick. Sure the petrol powered Pajero offers a more refined ride, but they are notoriously heavy on fuel, especially when towing. The diesels are powerful and economical – just what you want in a good touring vehicle.

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LAND ROVER DEFENDER 110 YEARS MADE: 1992- Current EXPECT TO PAY: $12,000+ WHO SHOULD BUY ONE: Serious 4X4 tourers… or those who just want one It’s safe to say the Land Rover Defender is one of the most iconic 4X4s created. Love them or hate them, you can’t deny they look the part.

In the sub $15,000 bracket you will be able to pick up an older 300tdi powered Defender, which is actually a blessing in disguise. While down on power compared to modern oilers, the 300tdi will go down in history as one of the most-robust diesels Land

Rover produced. And even though the Defender has the aerodynamics of a box of tissues, the 300tdi is remarkably frugal with many owners reporting fuel consumption figures under 10L/100km. This is seriously impressive for such a big 4X4!

Thanks to aluminium panel work rust is less of an issue (check the chassis and doors for rust though), and the mechanicals are so simple that servicing and repairs are straightforward enough. Just be sure to have the timing belt changed at 80-100,000km intervals to avoid expensive engine damage.

We won’t mention oil leaks or leaking air vents either, because if you’re considering a Defender you knew about them already…

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TOYOTA PRADO 90-SERIES

Available with two different petrol engines and one turbo-diesel (2.7L 3RZ, YEARS MADE: 1996-2002 3.4L 5VZ-FE and the 3.0L turbo-diesel 1KZ-TE engine) there are plenty of EXPECT TO PAY: $5000-$15,000+ choices available on the used market.

WHO SHOULD BUY ONE: Young Both the petrol engines are known families wanting to get outdoors for being tough and long lasting. In without fuss fact Toyota even offers factory forced induction systems for these engines The 90-series Prado was doomed in the USA. The turbo-diesel engine to be judged as ‘soft’ from day one, on the other hand has a reputation with Toyota’s marketing campaign for cracking heads. Ensure the cooling targeting those who wanted to ‘survive system on any potential 1KZ-TE you the city’. The truth is while the Prado inspect is in top condition, and have a isn’t and wont ever be a rock-crawler, reputable mechanic inspect the vehicle it is a very capable thing if used before purchasing just for your own within its means. The components peace of mind. used happen to be shared with other Toyotas such as the Hilux, meaning Comfort, reliability and off-road it’s strong enough and easy to fix or ability (despite what the initial upgrade if required. And while you marketing campaign suggested) all in might be able to find a more modern a sub $15k vehicle is pretty hard to 120-series Prado in this price bracket, beat. But if that’s exactly what you’re you would be better off looking for a looking for then the Prado could be neater 90-series, hopefully with some well worth a look. accessories already fitted.

Words By Evan Spence

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BUYER BEWARE THE FIVE TOP TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR NEXT USED 4X4.

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BUYING A USED VEHICLE CAN BE A HORRENDOUS EXPERIENCE. HERE ARE OUR

TOP FIVE WAYS TO GET INTO THE RIGHT USED 4X4 SOONER,

WITHOUT BUYING A LEMON

1: DO YOUR RESEARCH

one

an automatic gearbox and a diesel engine or is petrol power for you? Is Sure, that Daewoo Korando you your life unfulfilled without a gloss saw online might appeal to you yellow paint job and leather seats, because it has low mileage and or is vinyl flooring and manual a neat interior, but is it really the window winders your idea of right 4X4 for your needs? Buying engineering nirvana? Have you even the wrong truck is costly. Not only asked yourself these questions? will it waste time, but it’s almost a Make life easier; narrow your given that you will lose money when search down, and get out on the it comes time to sell in a rush (ask tracks sooner in the perfect 4X4. me how I know). So, do you want NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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2: LOOK FOR ACCESSORIES

Good quality 4X4 accessories aren’t cheap, but when buying or selling a 4X4 they really don’t (or shouldn’t) play a big part in the final sale price. If you are planning on adding accessories such as a bull bar, diff locks, a winch or snorkel for example, look around for a model with the gear already fitted. Think about it this way – if you found your dream truck but it had a blown engine, it would in many cases be cheaper to rebuild the engine than buy those accessories new. And then you have a built 4X4 with a new engine! Do your sums before signing on the dotted line, and if you do receive quotes for work (mechanical or accessory fitting), ensure to have the price confirmed and on paper before going ahead to avoid nasty surprises.

three

3: PRIVATE OR DEALER

This is a big call, but I’m going to say buying private is my preferred method when it comes to buying used. You get a feel for the vehicle and its history from the previous owner, usually in the first few minutes. They can give you a tour of the vehicle, and explain who performed the work if any accessories have been fitted or major repairs made. A dealer won’t have this information, and will only know how much they paid versus how much profit they need to make. Dealership pre-delivery departments are renown for ‘bog-and-flog’ tactics too, making it hard to ascertain the genuine overall condition of a 4X4 from beneath thick black under-body spray, cut back paintwork and a greasy sales pitch about extended warranties.

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4: SERVICE HISTORY

Correct servicing is the most important aspect of reliable vehicle ownership. Not only just meeting service intervals, but also ensuring the right grades of oils and genuine parts (or at least reputable parts) have been utilised too. There is nothing more frustrating than having a cheap part fail on the tracks, which could have been avoided with correct servicing.

Grill the seller over every detail of the vehicle’s past life, ask to see receipts, and even go as far as to speak with the mechanic who has done the work to verify the owner’s claims. If you put the effort in at this stage, you should be paid back with years of affordable and reliable motoring.

four

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5

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5: CONDITION CONDITION CONDITION

It’s a 4X4 after all, and if you’re reading this article it means you are going to be using the thing off-road. But the idea is to buy the neatest example you can afford. A few scratches on the paint isn’t anything to worry about, if anything bush pinstripes serve as a bargaining tool to negotiate the price down. If you see more than slight surface rust however, the best call is to usually walk away... actually, make that run! There is nothing worse than spending time and money on a vehicle, only to realise the body is too far riddled with metal cancer to proceed. Take your time, and think with your head not heart. When you see the right vehicle, you will know it.

Words By Evan Spence

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THE UNSEALED 4X4

REVIEW: LAND ROVER DEFENDER 90

THE ESSENCE OF FOUR-WHEEL DRIVING IS AT ITS BEST, RIGHT BEFORE IT’S RETIRED.

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THE LATEST INCARNATION OF THE DEFENDER MIGHT BE THE BEST – EVER. IT’S POWERFUL, COMFORTABLE, FUEL EFFICIENT, AND BEAUTIFUL

– IN A MARGARET THATCHER KIND OF WAY.

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Close your eyes and imagine a fourwheel drive cruising down an empty, barren outback track. The sun is setting behind the dust cloud as the sky erupts into a fierce orange that can’t be replicated anywhere else on Earth. Now focus on the vehicle. It’s simple; perhaps there’s a spare tyre mounted on the bonnet, a basic roof rack, and a dusty bloke behind the wheel with his arm sticking out the window. In my mind, he’s driving a Land Rover, because for me, nothing evokes the emotion of fourwheel driving quite like a Defender does.

In reality, old mate is probably driving a LandCruiser, and for good reason – they’re reliable, easy to repair and wellmade. The Defender is brash, romantic, temperamental – it’s the secretary you run away to Thailand with, not

the woman who reminds you to take your pills after watching re-runs. The Defender, simply put, is a purchase you make with your heart, not your head.

Sure, they’ve jumped over hurdles recently when it comes to reliability, and this is mostly thanks to the Ford Transit they’ve somehow grafted in under the hood. They’ve also become slightly more comfortable and have air conditioning that could be described as... usable.

And even though the ergonomics of the vehicle haven’t really changed since Stalin was a thing, it’s somehow more comfortable than ever, and I actually fit in it now. The latest incarnation of the Defender might be the best – ever. It’s powerful, comfortable, fuel efficient, and beautiful – in a Margaret Thatcher kind of way.

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Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

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But it’s all come too late, because there’s only one year left before the Defender ceases to exist due to European Union regulations. Apparently people there believe there should be standards for how much a car can hurt you, if you decide to walk in front of it while Tweetfacing. They also don’t have the foresight to realise that a vehicle such as the Defender, with a virtually limitless lifespan thanks to its easily repairable design, can be more environmentally friendly than a car with a service life equal to a smartphone.

In all fairness, the people who wish to walk in front of a Defender really should care about safety, because there is absolutely nothing to protect the vehicle’s occupants from being injured by a pesky pedestrian. The Defender comes equipped with no airbags, plenty of sharp corners, and a rollover rating somewhere between ‘I’m really hurt’ and ‘kill me, please’. Which is the way it should be, and that’s what makes the Defender such a great vehicle. It is the essence of four-wheel drive.

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N I W$150K

S PRIZE F O H WORT

S S E L E C I R P + A ESCAPE 4X4

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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+

more great prizes

SIMPLY HEAD OVER TO WWW.MR4X4.COM.AU OR WWW.CARSALES.COM.AU/PAT CALLINAN AND FOLLOW THE LINKS

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Terms and conditions: Entry is open VERSION only to Australian whoCLICK are 18 years or over.FOR For fullINTERACTIVE terms and conditions,MAGAZINE go to www.carsales.com.au NON-INTERACTIVE | residents PLEASE HERE

LAND ROVER NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

In many ways, the Defender is like a Leica Camera. If you’re after megapixels or kW and ISO performance or entertainment systems, you won’t find what you’re looking for here. If you want something that’s refined, to the point, and doesn’t bother to disturb you with a million useless buttons, this is your vehicle. If you’ve always wanted a Defender, but you were afraid they were uncomfortable or unreliable, this is your vehicle – it is quite pleasant to drive.

After more than a half-century of questionable reliability and legendary English craftsmanship; at a time when everything else is going soft, the Defender is finally at its best before it’s about to be killed off. That makes my head hurt, and my heart soft – because the Defender has always defended what it meant to be: a basic four-wheel drive.

Our test vehicle was priced at $47,030.

Prices start around $42,000. www.landrover.com.au

Matt Scott NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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THE B

TRAVEL C

FOR YOUR 4X4

These days, you do complicated camera We take a look at so cameras that are per your adventures fo family to see. No ma for a waterproof po end full frame work styled wonder, we

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BEST

CAMERAS

4 ADVENTURES

on’t need a massive, a to get a great shot. ome of the best travel rfect for documenting or your friends and atter if you’re looking ocket camera, a highk of art, or a vintagee have you covered.

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› Canon PowerShot D30

If you’re looking for a camera that you can throw in your pocket and never worry about, even if you find yourself occasionally underwater or in freezing conditions, it would be hard to fault the Canon PowerShot D30. It’s equipped with a GPS, so you’ll know exactly where you took each shot, and the 12.1 megapixel sensor gives you plenty of resolution to work with if you want to share your memories down the track.

RRP $399

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› Nikon 1 AW1

So you need something waterproof and rugged, but you also want to be able to swap lenses? The only player in this game is the new Nikon 1 AW1, the world’s first waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof interchangeable lens camera. It has a built-in compass, and it’ll even tell you your altitude.

The 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor has an ISO range of 160 to 6400 for oustanding low light capability.

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RRP $899

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BS

12

CR

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IP

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TI

1YEAR SUBSCRIPTION

+ OR

+ A CHOICE OF ONE OF THE THREE DREAM DESTINATION PACKS

RRP $122

YOURS FOR

ONLY $ OR

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

60

+ P&H

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› Panasonic Lumix LFI

The Panasonic Lumix LFI packs a big sensor and fantastic optics into a sleek, compact design. In addition to a three-inch LCD display, it’s equipped with an electronic viewfinder that’ll allow you to perfectly frame your shot.

There’s also the fast, Leica-designed F2.0 lens, which means beautiful blurred backgrounds when you want it, and big camera performance in a tiny package.

RRP $499

› Fujifilm X30

Throwback design and functionality meets modern technology. Fujifilm has been taking the photography world by storm by giving photographers what they want – an awesome shooting experience. The X30 is equipped with a real-time viewfinder, a large sensor, a fast lens and big battery life, making it a solid go-to travel camera for everything from four-wheel drive adventures to international travel.

RRP $599

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› Sony A7 Mark II

If you’re looking to take your photography to the next level, and you’re not quite ready to step up to a massive DSLR, Sony is leading the way with their brand-new A7 Mark II. Packing a full frame, professional-grade sensor into a small body with ridiculous ISO capability and five full stops of image stabilisation, this is the best camera on the market for low light photography.

For what it is, it’s also great value and relatively lightweight.

RRP $1999

› Leica M

A Leica is more than a camera – it’s a work of art. Handmade in Germany, the Leica M isn’t your usual camera; it’s a rangefinder, which means you look through a separate viewfinder that doesn’t reflect what the lens is seeing. That gives you a bright, wide open view of the entire scene, but it also means auto focus isn’t an option.

Be prepared to shell out the cash for a Leica, as the prices listed are for the body only, and lenses are extremely expensive. The best is never cheap.

RRP $7999

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Hema Explorer App ON and OFFLINE GPS navigation with interactive content ONLINE

OFFLINE

• Map-overlaid rain radar and weather forecasts

• Hema off-road base maps

• Clip ’n’ save Australia-wide satellite, street and terrain mapping • Share & download trips from the Hema Explorer Cloud track database

PLAY VIDEO

• 40,000+ interactive touring POI • Navigate and record trips with real-time GPS tracking

hemamaps.com

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THE EDITOR’S COLUMN

UPGRADE YOURSELF,

NOT YOUR CAR

Four-wheel drivers must be the most infallible group of people I’ve ever met.

You see, when they can’t make it over an obstacle, or through a mud hole, it clearly must be their MATT SCOTT vehicle’s fault. This mentality often leads to huge amounts of money being spent on unnecessary vehicle modifications.

A four-wheel drive can be like an expensive camera in the hands of someone that really doesn’t know what they’re doing. Perhaps if they take enough pictures, or throw enough skinny pedal at it, they’ll get by just fine — but does that mean they know what they’re doing? Absolutely not.

Everyone wants to look like a legend when they’re on the tracks tackling an intense obstacle, and there are quite a few vehicles running around that have most-certainly attained legend-status, but the drivers? Not so much. Rather than learning how

to drive, whether through four-wheel drive training books, courses, or just learning from those with a little bit more skill, they decided it was easier to fit a six-inch lift and 35-inch tyres.

Meanwhile, those that can drive are getting through the same obstacles effortlessly with half the vehicle.

Society would like us to think that there’s a correlation between how built your four-wheel drive is, and how good of a driver you actually are. To be honest, after spending a fair bit of time on the tracks with a wide range of people, I’d say the opposite is true. A more modestly built four-wheel drive requires you to put thought into into the lines you take, it requires you to get out and walk the crossing, simply put, it requires you to learn.

I’m not saying six-inch lifts and 35-inch tyres are stupid — they’re not. I’m saying the combination of those things with someone that doesn’t know how to use them is stupid. But then again, I’m sure everyone that’s reading this is a legend driver, right?

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4X4 BOX OFFICE

4X4 ADVENTURE CINEMA Just like you, we’re always looking for the coolest four-wheel drive videos on the web, so we figured that it’s about time we started sharing them with you.

Here’s what we’ve found this month!

› THE REENACTMENT OF THE FIRST SIMPSON DESERT CROSSING IN A VEHICLE

PRE ORDER SEASON 7 OF

PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4

HERE

Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

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› THE LUCKIEST WATER CROSSING – EVER!

› TOP GEAR DRIVES TO THE NORTH POLE IN A MODIFIED HILUX

› SEASON 6 OF PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4 ADVENTURES.

SEASON 6

OF PAT CALLINAN’S 4X4 IS AVAILABLE NOW CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE

For Unsealed 4X4 merchandise, Touring books and special offers – head to the Unsealed 4X4 website UNSEALED4X4.COM.AU and visit our shop.

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Because you’ve heroically chosen to download your copy of Unsealed 4X4, you can’t see what’s on this page. But trust us - it’s well worth looking at. To see it in all its glory go to unsealed4X4.com.au

y pla s i D klit ac B ur olo C 7

Oricom’s range of hand-held, in-vehicle UHF CB Radios and accessories are recognised in the market as high quality products priced for every day use.

Available from leading 4WD, automotive and communication specialists.

www.oricom.com.au NON-INTERACTIVE VERSION | PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR INTERACTIVE MAGAZINE

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CREDITS Editor Matthew Scott Journalist Sam Purcell Photo Journalist Evan Spence Head of Digital Media and Sales Eldon De Croos National Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Muras

Brand Manager and Associate Publisher Kirsten Nutting Video Editor Steven Levett Sales and Promotions Manager James Fox Graphic Designer Laura Boshammer

Key Account Manager Allan Goldby

Publisher Pat Callinan Publishing Pty Ltd

Contact us here

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BACK ISSUES Did you miss an issue?

Not to worry, you can read it here, free!

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ADVERTISER INDEX Airbagman

Maxtrax

ARB 4X4 Accessories

National 4x4 Outdoors Show and Fishing & Boating Expo

Auto-craft

Offroad Systems

Cooper Tires

Opposite Lock

Cub Campers

Oricom

Dolium

Outback 4WD Interior Accessories

ENGEL AUSTRALIA

REDARC

Electronic Rust Prevention Systems

SLR Caravans and Motorhomes

Getabout 4WD Training

Spotters

Glind

Steinbauer - Diesel Care

Goal Zero

Terrain Tamer

Harrop

Ultimate Offroad Campers

HEMA Maps

Competitions:

Innovan

$150,000+ Ultimate Nissan Giveaway

Ironman 4X4 Longranger Fuel & Water Tanks Lotus Caravans

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY

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08

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INSID E NEX T ISSU HOW E TO

YOUR RUIN + A DA 4X4 Y’S D SYDN EY: FI RIVE FRO VE TR M ACKS

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For Unsealed 4X4 merchandise, Touring books and special offers – head to the Unsealed 4X4 website UNSEALED4X4.COM.AU and visit our shop.

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