respecting the great outdoorsmagazine editor roz oshea/simpson -0427536916 [email protected] trip...
TRANSCRIPT
July 2020
Issue No 458
Central Coast
4WD Club
Respecting the Great Outdoors
Image be Kate Smith
2
COMMITTEE President: Neale Simpson—0404843445 [email protected]
Vice President: Faye Goodman—0423008628 [email protected]
Secretary and Public Officer Alan Booth—0404729704 [email protected]
Membership Officer: CherriePandich [email protected]
Treasurer: Lisa Good—0407539457 Magazine Editor Roz Oshea/Simpson - 0427536916 [email protected]
Trip Master Trevor Banks—0428972763 [email protected]
Public Relations: Jim Collis—0401144278 [email protected]
SUB COMMITTEE
Assistant Treasurer:
Alison Wallace—0427885733
Quarter Master
Peter Glendinning—0407201120
Merchandising:
Bill McConville—0411433232
DTU Officer
Dave Edwards—0418605445
Raffle Co-Ordinator
Joyce Hollins—43923878
Supper Co-ordinator
Steve Turdak
Lease Manager
Paul Kelly—0408433790
Social Co-Ordinator
CLUB MEETINGS
Club meetings are held on the SECOND THURSDAY of each month at the Tuggerah Public School Assembly Hall, Old Pacific Highway, Tuggerah, at 8 pm. Members are invited to bring their friends to the club meetings and outings. THERE IS NO MEETING IN JANUARY OF EACH YEAR.
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Committee meetings are held on the SECOND MONDAY after the general meeting. Woodbury Park Community Centre, 1 Woolmers Cres, Mardi. Meeting time 7:30pm
MAGAZINE INFORMATION
Any information or articles of interest are
welcomed by the editor and can be emailed to
[email protected] Please ensure that your
articles and trip reports are sent to the editor as
soon as possible so they can appear in the next
magazine. The cut off date for production is the
last Thursday of each month.
CLUB POSTAL ADDRESS
CC4wd Club
PO Box 4354
LAKEHAVEN NSW 2263
CLUB WEBSITE www.cc4wdc.org.au
WEBMASTER
Steve Farmer
CLUB contact; Jim Collis—0401144278 The Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club is a
member of the Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT
Association www.4wdnow.com
Club delegate :Mark Roper - 0420976784
ISSUE NO 458—Jluy 2020
The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the
club.
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Hi All
I would like to thank to all the members for their contribution to the
magazine in ways of images trip reports and articles and makes my job
easier .
Its exciting to see thing slowly return in some way to the new normal .
We have trips planned and DTU up and running .
We must still be aware that we are still in the middle of a pandemic and
be diligent in following Covid guidelines, sorry that’s the nurse in me
coming out.
I look forward to reading and publishing trip reports when they come in,
and get very excited to have new trips to add to the calendar. So keep
them coming .
Stay safe every one and enjoy our beautiful country .
Cheers Roz
If you have any Positive things photos, etc for the next mag please send
them to me
Image by Roz OShea
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Vice Presidents’ report
Vice Presidents Report July 2020
Here in the CC4WDC we all know what July means - Roaring campfires, great company, bush drives, campfire
games and Xmas lights! At this stage Xmas in July is on with some modifications to ensure we comply with
Covid-19 guidelines. We are finalising a Covid safe plan which needs final approval from State Forests - in-
stead of the traditional single campfire, we’re going to have groups of 20 allocated to smaller, scattered fires.
We still need more volunteers to collect wood and organise games so please let Trevor or me know if you can
help.
As at 1st July there’s still no end in site to the restrictions that are preventing us getting together physically for
a general meeting as community halls are still limited to 20 attendees plus organisers. I’m watching the regu-
lations daily and will let everyone know as soon as we’re able to meet again in person. In the meantime,
please join our monthly Zoom meetings if you can and support the club. We’ve actually had quite a bit of fun
in these meetings and they’re over and done in around 45 minutes.
The committee still hasn’t made a decision on when to conduct the AGM – the feeling is that we’d rather do it
in person. We are still hopeful that restrictions may have eased enough to conduct an AGM in August or Sep-
tember.
In the meantime, please think about nominating for a committee position. Some of us have been on the com-
mittee for several years and we’d like to step aside and have some fresh ideas. The committee has been oper-
ating very successfully for a number of months without meeting in person and the thinking is that we will con-
tinue to operate this way in the future, with an online meeting once a month, possibly a catch up for a dinner
meeting once every three months and add-hoc communication via a chat group. This means that people who
work long hours or commute to the city might find being a part of the committee a lot easier.
It’s been wonderful to get out and about again and run some club trips. TC and I just love meeting new people
and the friendships that evolve. Thanks to everyone who has stepped up to run trips – especially Mysteire
Egan and Sean Du Toit for running your first trip, which I’ve heard, was a great success. Also Lachy Thomas
and Trevor Banks for scheduling some great upcoming trips.!
See you in the bush soon!
Cheers
Faye Goodman
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General Meeting
9th July
“Zoom meeting“ Zoom meetings are free and you can join from your computer, phone, IPad or other tablet.
If you are joining by phone you will need to get the Zoom app before you can join a Zoom
meeting.
• For iPhone or iPad, go to the App Store.
• For other phones or tablets, go to the Google Play Store The app you need is called “Zoom Cloud Meetings. “
Once you have the app, click on the meeting link below to join a meeting.
If you are joining from your computer, you can just click on the meeting link below and follow
the instructions on your screen.
Click here to join
Meeting ID 859 9471 9079
Password general1
If you have any questions or need any help setting up, please phone Faye on 0423 008 628 and
she will step you through the process.
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Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club
General Meeting
Thursday 11TH June 2020
Meeting On-Line; Vice President Faye Goodman sent video message through ZOOM 8.05pm
All members and guests are welcome to join and post.
Attendance; On Line through ZOOM, and as captured, (sorry if we missed anyone);
Lisa & Scott Good, Alison Wallace, Faye & TC, Neale & Ros Simpson, Frank Adams, Ian Mackay, Kerry (from up north), Linda Sey-
mour, Raymond Hill, Carol & Mat Corp, David Clout, Dave & Michelle Edwards, Jim Collis, Cherrie Pandich, Trevor Banks, Joyce &
Barry, Paul Fisher, Rod & Lyn Phelps, Chris Newberry and Alan Booth.
Apologies; Jo & Spotto,
Visitors; Nil recorded
Minutes of the previous meetings;
Secretaries Report; by Alan
Correspondence, emails received – 14th May - 11th June as tabled;
Motion That the minutes for the General Meeting held on the 14th May as pub-
lished in the magazine be accepted.
Moved; Neale Seconded; Trevor Action; carried
Motion That the minutes for the General Meeting held on the 12th March as
published in the magazine be accepted.
Moved; Trevor Seconded; Allison Action; carried
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Hard copy correspondence; Cancer Council, Bank Statement,
Outward Correspondence; As Tabled above
Treasurers Report; by Lisa Presented by Alan
Current; $13,572.36
From Subject Response
4WD Touring Australia Day Trippers digital book Meeting
Lisa Treasurer Treasurer report Meeting
Cherrie Membership Report Meeting
4WDNOW Quarterly Meeting May 16th via Zoom Meeting
4WD Touring Australia 5 great Aussie Road Mysteries Meeting
Scott Hines Membership enquiry Email
Australian 4WD & Adventure
Shows
2020 calendar to be released shortly Meeting
Hunter Region 4WD Featured clubs promotion Meeting
Geoff Peck HF Radio Austravel Safety net committee Meeting
4WD Touring Australia Backroads and Backstories Meeting
ARMA Admin New Association Meeting
Convict Trial Newsletter Meeting
Hunter Region 4WD June Meeting Minutes Meeting
Cherrie Membership Report Meeting
St George Bank Bank Transfer Meeting
Ryan Walker Sydney 4WD show marketing Meeting - Committee
Vice President We-Leaser reopen Meeting
4WD Touring Australia Newsletter Meeting
ARMA Formal invitation to join Meeting/Committee
Campersat Promotion Meeting
Port Macquarie 4WDC May minutes Meeting
Greg from Blayze Web Site Committee
4WDNOW Affiliation fees Meeting
Treasurer Lisa P&L for May Meeting Minutes
Kevin Ellison Membership & club information Meeting/email
Trevor Banks Information from Forestry re, Christmas
in July
Meeting
Motion That the inwards and outwards correspondence as presented be accept-
ed.
Moved; Trevor Seconded; Faye Action; Carried
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Investment Account; $10,241.78
Profit May $1,597.15
The current account balance as of today’s date with expenses as presented having been paid.
Bills of payment presented; MYOB $38.50
Irwins $147.80 Gas Bottles and fuel for the lease
Lease Battery $134.99
Trophy World $66.00
Payments starting to come in for memberships keep them coming.
For this meeting; Fun Fines raised $TBA Raffle raised $0.00.
New Members; by Cherrie
Members lists are being updated keeping a record of payments.
The Club seeks the endorsement of the following new members;
Ron and Leanne Porter
Editor; by Roz
Unfortunately, nothing new to report and always looking for more photos
Page 60 of the May magazine referenced Wombats name, apologies if it’s upsetting but we will never forget him.
Assistant Treasurer; by Allison
Nothing new to report
Lease manager; by Spotto
Fantastic time at the lease on the weekend with 16 people in attendance, thanks to all those who helped in the preparations.
For further events and general maintenance, we will need to look into creating a list of volunteers for work up at the lease.
DTU Report; by Dave Edwards
Presentations; Nil
Planning to start up stage 2. Seeking advice regarding responsible procedures to be put in place. Next stage 2nd - 18th July 2020,
Next stage 1st - 16th August.
Motion That the Treasurers report and bills of payment as presented be accept-
ed.
Moved; Neale Seconded; T C Action; carried
Motion That the new members as nominated above be welcomed to the club.
Moved; David Seconded; Mat Action; Carried
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Trip Leader Report; by Trevor Banks
Trip reports, Nil.
The lease opened for the long weekend with registrations for those who attended. Important for all attendees to sign the attendance
sheets.
Upcoming trips, Tea gardens trip.
EMPTY ESKY TRIP TC & Faye trip to Nundle
4-5th July Coopernook. 3 spots left, TBA.
18th – 19th July Hill End TBA.
Christmas in July will go ahead 25th July waiting for State Forest that may require us to individually register.
Gem Feast is cancelled for now.
Aggquip is rescheduled for November.
Keep an eye on the magazine and Facebook pages for updates.
NSW/ACT Association notes;
Neale posted information from the 4WDNOW meetings minutes and Port Hunter 4WDC meeting minutes. Association is in the black
with funds and everything is running normally. ARMA apparently do not have the same agenda as the state associations and appears to
come out of Queensland.
General Business;
New Association Delegate Nominee; Mark Roper
For the AGM scheduled to be held in August, the committee has concerns about the remaining Covid 19 restrictions in place. We are
looking to perhaps conduct the meeting outside or postpone it until restrictions are somewhat lifted. Members will have to vote for
new committee positions the details for voting for your favourite committee positions will be posted in the June magazine.
We know its only July but nominations for an organising committee for the upcoming Christmas party are open. If you are able to lend
a hand please see one of he committee members and register your interest, it is one of the great Annual Club events.
Items for sale
Nothing for sale this month.
Piston Broke Trophy
Lachie still has it and will be looking after it for the foreseeable future.
The next general meeting will hopefully be on Thursday 9th July 2020 via ZOOM unless otherwise noted.
Notes were taken of people who are drinking during the Zoom meetings, bring your money with you.
Peter Vine owes the club fun fines form the long weekend at the lease.
Meeting closed at 8.51pm Minutes by Alan Booth
Motion That Mr Roper be accepted as the new Association Delegate.
Moved; Neale Seconded; Paul Action; Carried
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13
The
We Leas-er
IS
OPENED!!!! DUE TO
Current Regulations .
“With RESTRICTIONS” I have attached the Covid Policy
Dated 1st June 2020
Listing the restrictions
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This policy has been developed in response to the recent Covid 19 Pandemic which has had a major impact
on the Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club activity today and in the future.
The Committee has met and developed the following controls to be applied to all Club Activities. This policy is
to be read, taking into consideration what is “reasonably practicable in the situation”.
We Leaser Guidelines
Only financial CC4WDC Members will be allowed to attend the lease – No Visitors.
Do not attend the lease if you or any of your family are unwell – Stay at Home.
Do not attend the lease if you or any of your family have been exposed to Covid 19 in the past 14 days.
Do not attend the lease if you or any of your family have returned from overseas in the past 14 days.
All people attending the Lease MUST sign on, the Sign on Sheet is located in the café in the metal box.
Social distancing of 1.5 metres MUST BE maintained at all times including in the café and campfire.
Please no sharing food during Happy Hour.
You are encouraged to download the CovidSafe app to your phone
Wash hands regularly with soap and water or hand sanitiser
Bring your own cooking utensils and use Non Stick Baking Paper on the BBQ. Please disinfect BBQ, the sink,
tables and surfaces after use.
You are encouraged to bring your own cooking facilities to help prevent the risk of transmission of
Covid 19.
Camp site set up, ensure that there is a minimum distance of 5 metres away from the next campsite.
The shower is closed until further notice.
Pit Toilets are still open. Before and after use please wipe down the toiler seat, door handles etc. Parents/
Carers please accompany your children to the toilet to make sure that the facilities are disinfected.
The Club has supplied Earth Choice – Antibacterial Surface Cleaner which is suitable for use in the pit toilets
for cleaning. Do not put disinfectant wipes in the pit toilet.
Please bring your own grey water friendly Antibacterial Surface Cleaners for use in the pit toilet.
It is encouraged to bring your own porta pottie or wee bucket to help prevent the spread of
Covid 19.
COVID 19 POLICY
1st June 2020
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COVID 19 POLICY
Club Trips Training Guidelines
Do not attend the trip if you or any of your family are unwell – Stay at Home.
Do not attend the trip if you or any of your family have been exposed to Covid 19 in the past 14 days.
Do not attend the trip if you or any of your family have returned from overseas in the past 14 days.
All people attending the trip MUST sign the Trip Sign On Sheet provided by the Trip Leader.
During the trip if you or any of your family begin to feel unwell, please notify the Trip Leader IMMEDIATELY.
Social distancing of 1.5 metres MUST BE maintained at all times including around the campfire.
Please no sharing food during Happy Hour.
Wash hands regularly with soap and water or hand sanitiser
Camp site set up, ensure that there is a minimum distance of 5 metres away from the next campsite.
Bring your own cooking & toileting facilities to help prevent the risk of transmission of
Covid 19.
Please supply your own hand sanitiser, disinfectants and soap.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping the members of our great club
safe.
1st June 2020
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Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club Incorporated
Membership renewal Due
30th
June 2020 General Membership $90p/a
Gold Membership $50p/a
Life membership $35 p/a
We need you to fill out the renewal forms so that we can update our record’s.
Renewal forms are in the Magazine If you have trouble with downloading and scanning the completed forms, you can for-
ward your information with your receipt of payment to [email protected]
Information needed.
• Members Names, Email and address
• Type of 4WD vehicle -Make & Model
• Year of manufacture— Rego number
• Petrol or diesel
• Confirmation of vehicle Insurance - at least 3rd Party insurance
• If you would like to receive our Monthly Magazine
Online Membership payment
Send your payment via internet banking.
Details are
Account name: Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club Incorporated
BSB: 082 620
Account: 622378649
Ensure you put your Name/Number and the word “Renewal” in the
“account description”
Send an email to [email protected] including the following:
• Your Details
• The amount of the payment
• The receipt number
• The date and time of the transfer
Thankyou
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18
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CC4WD CLUB ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Managing Committee : President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Membership Officer
Magazine Editor
Trip Master
Public Relations Officer
Sub Committee: Assistant Treasurer
Quartermaster
Public Officer
Social Co-Ordinator
Merchandising Officer
Raffle Co-Ordinator
Lease Manager
Association Meeting Delegates (2)
Elections will be conducted in accordance with rule 14 of the Club Rules.
In particular, please note that candidates for the positions must have been a member of the Club for a mini-mum of 12 months since last joining. Candidates must be nominated in writing, signed by 2 members and accompanied by written consent of the candidate.
The nomination in writing must be delivered to the secretary of the Club not less than 7 days before the
date of the AGM. Note that nominations can only be accepted in writing, as above, however if no nomina-
tion for any particular positions are received prior, then nominations for these positions will be accepted at
the AGM.
The Central Coast 4wd Annual General Meeting is coming up .
Due to the current restrictions in place because of Covid a date for
the meeting is pending .
Following is the list of positions and Duties for your perusal .
I have also added the voting forms
The committee will inform its members of its decision as soon as
possible
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CENTRAL COAST FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB INC.
Duties of Office Bearers and Sub-Committee Members
President:
• Club spokesperson
• Chairperson for general and management committee meetings.
• Sign off on all meeting minutes
• Monthly report for club magazine.
Vice President:
• Duties of President in his/her absence.
• Organise a yearly new members barbecue
Secretary/Public Officer:
• Keep minutes of all general and management committee meetings
• Maintain records of:
o Appointments of office bearers and management committee members
o Keep record books and documents relating to the club
o Maintain a register of club correspondence
o Arrange collection of the club’s mail (from PO Box at Lakehaven)
• Monitor incoming club email correspondence and forward to relevant members.
• Submit the following to the Department of Fair Trading
o “Annual Statement Form” (at start of financial year), “Notice of Appointment and of Name and Address of Public
Officer” (after Annual General Meeting),
o “Notice of Alteration of Objects or Rules” (within one month of Club voting) and any other requirements of the De-
partment.
• Forward committee details to the Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Association.
• Forward general meeting minutes to the editor for inclusion in the magazine
Membership Officer:
• Duties of Secretary in his/her absence.
• Maintain club database and membership details
• Facilitate the acceptance of membership and renewal forms.
Treasurer:
• Ensure all money due to the club is collected & received;
• Ensure all payments authorised by the club are made
• Keep books and accounts showing the financial affairs of the club including full details of all receipts and expenditure
related to club activities.
• Maintain a balance sheet and income and expenditure account for the financial year to be prepared and tabled at the
Annual General Meeting.
• Ensure all Club monies are deposited in the nominated bank accounts.
• Ensure all signatures are submitted to the nominated banking authority and that they are kept up to date.
Assistant Treasurer:
• Duties of Treasurer in his/her absence.
• Assist in the acceptance of Membership and Renewal Forms.
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CENTRAL COAST FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB INC.
Duties of Office Bearers and Sub-Committee Members
Trip Master:
• Encourage and co-ordinate trips and events.
• Prepare pre-trip paperwork for trip leaders.
• Forward trip reports to Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Association after each trip.
• Announce upcoming trips and co-ordinate verbal trip reports at general club meetings
Magazine Editor:
• Collate all articles for the club magazine and publish online
• Compile club magazine monthly
• Maintain email addresses for club Members and
• Email Magazine to all Members
• Email magazine to our advertisers and affiliated associations
• Maintain Attendance Register & Visitors Register at club general meetings
Public Relations Officer:
• Seek advertising for the club magazine and promote the club activities.
• Update register of Advertisers and advise editor of all details
• Update club website and Facebook page
Social Coordinator:
• Arrange and co-ordinate social activities, including Christmas parties.
Quarter Master:
• Keep all club equipment in a safe place
• Issue the equipment to members as required
• Keep a register of where all equipment is stored
Raffle Coordinator:
• Arrange for purchase of raffle prizes and run the raffle at club meetings.
Supper Coordinator:
• Purchase supplies and provide supper at club meetings.
Lease Manager
• Oversee maintenance and co-ordinate working bees at We-Leas-er
• Maintain a register of volunteers to maintain We-Leas-er
Merchandising Officer
• Order and maintain supplies of club apparel and merchandise
• Attend meetings and sell club merchandise
Association Meeting Delegates
• Attend meetings of the Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Association
• Report Association news to club general meetings
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CENTRAL COAST FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB INCORPORATED
FORM OF NOMINATION OF MEMBER AS CANDIDATE FOR ELECTION AS MEMBER OF THE MANAG-
ING COMMITTEE AND/OR OFFICE BEARER
We, 1 ______ of ________ _
(FULL NAME) (ADDRESS)
And, 2 of ____________________ __
(FULL NAME) (ADDRESS)
both being members of the above club hereby nominate,
_____ of _____________ __
(FULL NAME OF NOMINEE) (ADDRESS)
as a candidate for the position of ___________________________ for the 2020/2021 Club year
(TITLE OF OFFICE)
SIGNED 1 DATE:
SIGNED 2 DATE:
I
(FULL NAME OF NOMINEE) hereby declare that I have been a member of the club for a minimum of 12 months since last joining and hereby consent to be nominated for the above office.
SIGNATURE: DATE:
————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— ——
CENTRAL COAST FOUR WHEEL DRIVE CLUB INCORPORATED
FORM OF NOMINATION OF MEMBER AS CANDIDATE FOR ELECTION AS MEMBER OF THE MANAGING COMMIT-TEE AND/OR OFFICE BEARER
We, 1 ______ of ________ __
(FULL NAME) (ADDRESS)
And, 2 of __________________ ____
(FULL NAME) (ADDRESS)
both being members of the above club hereby nominate,
_____ of _____________ __
(FULL NAME OF NOMINEE) (ADDRESS)
as a candidate for the position of ___________________________ for the 2020/2021 club year
(TITLE OF OFFICE)
SIGNED 1 DATE:
SIGNED 2 DATE:
I
(FULL NAME OF NOMINEE) hereby declare that I have been a member of the club for a minimum of 12 months since last joining and hereby consent to be nominated for the above office.
SIGNATURE: DATE:
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Christmas in July—Watagans
Weekend of the 25th July
Octoberfest—We Leaser
Weekend of the 3rd October—
Club Christmas Party —We Leaser
Weekend of 28th November
So Add these dates in your Diary
You don’t want to miss them .
These events have been a highlight in the club Calen-
dar in the past.
If you feel you could help with any of these events
please speak to a committee member.
Bring on 2020 I say .
Club Events for 2020
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Upcoming Trips Guide Date Event Class Trip Leader Telephone Limit
1st June Hunter Regional 4WD council meeting
4th 5th July Coopernook Forest Loop
C/D
TC & Faye
0423 008 628
0411 090 653
10 people
18th 18th
July
Hill End
D TC & Faye 0423 008 628
0411 090 653
20 ppl
25th July weekend
2020
Club Xmas in July Watagans open
1st August—13th
August 2020
Gemfest Rubyvale Jane Steven
0422021179
0425249879
4
15th 16th August Golden Weekend Away Cells River
C Lachlan Thomas
0403083191
6 Vehicles
3rd August Hunter Regional 4WD council meeting
11th-13th Sept
4WD adventure show International Dragway
Eastern creek
12th Oct Hunter Regional 4WD council meeting
Oct 3rd weekend Oktoberfest We Leaser open
31stOct—13th
Nov
Snowy Mountain River Victorian High Country
C+ B
Lachlan Thomas
0403083191
6 Vehicles
NOV
Aguip & Pilliga Planning in progress
Trevor Banks
0428972763 8 Camper trail-er friendly
Nov 28th weekend Club Christmas Party We Leaser open
7th Dec Hunter Regional 4WD council meeting
25
TRIP BOOK-IN PROCEDURE
1. You must personally book in.
2. If you book in early you must confirm that you still intend going no later
than two weeks before the trip. If you do not confirm your position will be
re-allocated
3. If you are unable to attend please notify the trip leader as soon as
possible so that someone else has the opportunity to fill the position.
4. It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to contact the trip leader the night before the
trip. This will enable you to confirm your attendance, and also check that the
trip hasn’t been affected by weather conditions.
5. Trips can only be booked once they have been published in the Club
Magazine. A sign in sheet will be available at each monthly meeting.
TRIP CLASSIFICATION CODES
A. This class of trip is considered to be extremely difficult. Participants will
have to be experienced at travelling over difficult terrain. An amount of
winching and/or towing will almost definitely be required. Participants will
be required to bring along basic recovery equipment. The trip leader will
have the right to reject a request to go from someone who is considered
under experienced.
B. This class of trip is considered to be a moderate to difficult trip. An
amount of winching and/or towing will almost certainly be required. Under
extreme weather conditions, this trip could develop into a class A trip.
C. This class of trip is considered to be a moderate trip. Various sections of
this trip will require cautious driving in order to negotiate your way. In most
circumstances winching and/or towing will not be necessary
D. This class of trip is considered to be a relatively easy trip. In is unlikely
that any winching and/or towing will be required
E. This class of trip is considered to be very easy. Little or not four wheel
driving will be required and these trips usually consist of easy to reach base
camps, scenic tours, social events, etc.
IMPORTANT NOTE: ALL A, B, AND C TRIPS YOUR VEHICLE MUST BE ABLE
TO ENGAGE LOW RANGE. These classifications codes are A GUIDE ONLY.
26
Trip Report
Jimmy’s Beach – Hawks
Nest.
26th June – 29th June TRIP LEADERS -Mysteire Jones & Sean Du Toit
Dianna & Bill McConville - Prado Nerrida & Tony – Land Crab
Joyce & Barry Vines – Prado Bev & Ray Hill - Pajero
Lynne & Rod Phelps - Land Crab Bev & Greg Douglas – Colorado
Aunty Bev Forte – Another bloody Prado Jo & Paul Kelly – Valiant Hemi Ram
Vicki & Neil Pearson _ another Land Crab Pete “Pappa Smurf “Glendining – Land Crab
Deb Carters & Greg O’Connor – Land Cruiser - Dee & Craig Green - Patrol
When we arrived late Friday arvo everybody was already there sitting around a
great fire and enjoying a few social beverages and a catch up. The rain was
patchy but seemed to get worse every time Aunty Bev got her phone out and
opened the weather App. There was a rumour going around that somebody may
be in the running for the “Piston Broke” award because a fire hydrant was re-
versed into earlier in the day. We all enjoyed catching up after being in lockdown
and after some social time everybody wandered off to bed eventuall
Saturday was a relaxing day with a mixture of things happening. There was a
group who went driving on the beach and I hear that the Valiant became
bogged. A few people went to Mungo ad crossed the ferry and just had a leisure-
ly drive and others went wandering around locally stopping for coffee and taking
in the local tourism. The pub at Tea Gardens was the meeting point for every-
body to join up again for a spot of lunch then back to camp in the early after-
noon just in time to light the fire and have some “Socially Distanced Happy
Hour”. We had an amazing camp fire and just really enjoyed being able to get
out and being able to socialise a great bunch of friends.
27
The rain came down fairly heavily in the early hours of Sunday morning so
there was a sombre wet pack up on Sunday morning before all saying our
goodbyes and heading off. A few stopped in Hawkes Nest for a coffee and some
went to Karuah for a coffee stop.
It was a well needed relaxing weekend and I would like to thank Mysteire and
Sean for making the effort to organise the weekend.
Craig Green
28
Nundle Trip Report 27-28 June 2020 Trip Leaders: TC and Faysie
Car 1: TC and Faysie in the Ranger Car 2: Damien and Anna in the Patrol + Trevor Car 3: Harvey and Alma in the Wildtrak Car 4: Fiona and Ian in the Pajero Car 5: Kate and Dan in the Cruiser Car 6: Lachy and Liz in the Patrol Post COVID lockdown, we could finally leave the yard, After all this time indoors, we were taking it hard, Despite being a sun lover, TC did say, Snow, frost and winter, regardless, I'll play. So Nundle was planned, with a limit on folks, And the numbers were even, with ladies and blokes. At 9:30am in Scone, most did meet, Then onto Gundy, where the last of the group, we did greet. The road we traversed, in spirits all high, Following a stone bottom river, that made the heart sigh. And then it came, the moment of truth… Nobody spoke, silence… Silence… Strewth! The trip report moment, “Volunteers?” we did hear, There was nothing but crickets and a moment of fear. I’ll do the written said Kate with a start, “Don’t make me do the verbal,” said her fast beating heart. Then Liz had no part, in what came to be, Delivering the verbal, it was decided was she. Nominations and seconders, a popular vote, “She is just perfect,” all did note. We crossed Isis bridge, which really seemed tame, After all, sometimes, a name is a name. Timor the town, no houses were seen,
But a lovely tennis court, coloured in green. We passed a huge mass, of grass tree on high, And stopped for a Kodak moment and again went by. We kicked up a lot, of serious dust,
And felt like after so long at home, it was really a must. Onwards and upwards, to the Fossickers campsite. We signed all our forms so we could rest for the night.
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With bellies full and camp set up, in the trucks we did back, Ready to head up some good ol' dirt track. The hills were high and we said, "Hey buddy..." "Can you believe how wet and how muddy?" The tyres did slip and the tyres did slide, And some trucks looked like they were crabs on their side, A moment of panic and a moment of dread, When Ian slid down and was losing his head. But some reverse and some grunt, momentum they say, And once again the convoy were off on their way. The trees had been cut through the forest of pine, And the track we had planned, was canned said the sign. The loggers it appeared had well claimed our track, It was the 4pm decision, should we change tact? Oh course, said we all, what could go wrong? Thankfully this time, we were right all along. No dramas were had, between afternoon and night, And stopped in at the usual campground for a quick little sight. A guy wandered the road dressed in camo gear whilst holding a gun, And we all thought Spotto was in Hawkes Nest having some fun? Hanging Rock at sunset was a truly beautiful sight, And it seemed for a moment, in the world all was right. The colours were wondrous, the air had a chill, The peace, the bush, the outdoors… All gave a thrill. Back onto camp for a hot shower and a rubadubdub, Then off we headed, to Nundle Pub. The fire came out as the frost hit the ground, And there was nothing but chatter and the fire’s crackling sound.
At almost 10 we were off on our way, Ready for scenery and on some hills we would play. Some concerns were had, about getting the camper up the hill, All vehicles made it with a lot of fingers crossed and hope for goodwill.
Bertie the Avan was emptying some of her load, So we followed the water trail, along the dirt road. For morning tea we did stop and a picturesque place we did seek, And stopped for a moment along a splendid stone creek. Water crossings and countryside, with a carwash to boot, Was had by all and it was such a hoot. The Barrington region was next it would seem, Before Monday arrived and left us to dream… Thank you so much once again Faysie and TC. We all love joining you for a trip and appreciate all you do.
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Where: Casuarina Campground, Watagans Forest Road, Olney State Forest,
Watagan Mountains. (About 40 minutes drive from the middle of
the Central Coast) If you are camping you need to register NPNSW
When: Friday 24th July-Sunday 26th July—you can come for the whole week
end, a day trip or just for a few hours
Bring: Christmas fancy dress, table decorations, Christmas lights and
ingredients for a camp oven dinner.
Prizes: Prizes will be awarded for best kids an adults Christmas costume,
best dinner table and games winners
Contacts: If you can help out with wood gathering any day from Wednesday 22nd on-
wards, or even if just for a few hours to help with general setup, clean up or games
If you can help out —contact
Trevor Banks -0428972763 or Faye Goodman 0423 008 628
Christmas in July Its time to bring out your best Xmas gear for our famous Xmas
in July gathering.
There’s plenty to do—with day trips around the Watagans,
party games for kids and for adults and of course, campfires!
This is a great chance to get together with other club mem-
bers in a social setting. Once again we will need as many
hands on deck as possible to make this event a success. If you
can help out with wood gathering, light setup, kids games or
clean up on Sunday, please get in touch with the contacts be-
low.
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Coopernook Forest Loop
4th-5th July 2020
Trip Leaders: Tony Clark 0411 090 653
Faye Goodman 0423008628.
Where: Coopernook Forest (near Taree)
Trip Class: C/D
Limit: 10 people at the moment. COVID Safe guidelines will be followed.
Suitable for camper trailers.
Meet: 9 a.m. Maccas. South Taree Service Centre. Just off highway.
(approximately 3 hours from the Central Coast
Bring: Usual recovery gear, food, drinking water, bag of firewood. Warm clothes.
Minimum
Requirements: Stage 1 awareness training. Good all terrain tyres. UHF radio.
This weekend we'll camp at Coopernook Forest H.Q. Campground, a short drive from the meeting place. Drop toilet is avail-
able. Hopefully there’s enough room as it’s first in, best dressed!
After setting up camp we'll head off around the forest loop and view the majestic scenery from the multiple lookouts. There is
also a short easy walk through the Starr Rainforest boardwalk. Lots of birds and protected wildlife. After visiting the Waitui
Falls we will then continue back to camp.
Sunday morning we can travel up to top of Middle Brother via The Bird Tree and a couple of short hill climbs that may get
your heart racing. Chicken tracks available. These tracks haven’t been reccy’d for a few years. We will be back to camp
around 2 pm to pack up.
The trip will end at Coopernook pub, if it’s open, and you should be back on the coast by around 6.30 p.m.
32
Hill End historic village
When: Sat 18-Sun 19 July, 2020
Where: Hill End historic village (near Bathurst)
Meet: 10 am Yetholme Caltex , 3529 Great Western Highway,
Yetholme
Grade: D-C minus
Limit: 20 people
Trip leaders: Tony Clark 0411 090 652 or Faye Goodman 0423 008 628
Caravans and camper trailers welcome. Powered sites available if you’re quick!
Some participants have booked into Hill End Lodge for the night too
Hill End is an historic village that has many buildings and relics from the 1860’s goldrush period. The Holtermann
nugget – the largest single piece of gold ever found, was unearthed here in 1872. There are many well pre-
served buildings and relics from this era.
We will spend some time viewing all the attractions and historic sights including museums. Dinner is at the Hill
End lodge.
We will also take a drive down the northern end of the iconic Bridle track
The Village campground has powered sites available, (we expect it to be very cold!) or you might like to live it
up at the Hill End Lodge
33
QLD Fossicking Trip to Rubyvale If the borders are opened before the planned leaving date.
Jane and Steven will still be doing this trip .
If not they will be running an alternative outback trip.
When : Leaving 1st August
Returning home 13th
Vehicle Qty—Limited to 4 cars due to limited space on property
Camper trailer and Tents only—will need to be self sufficient
More information closer to the date
Contact : Jane—0422021179
Steven—0425249879
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Golden Weekend
Away
Saturday 15th – Sunday 16th August
Trip Leader: Lachlan Thomas 0403 083 191
Where: Cells State Conservation Area, Mummel Gulf National Park
Meet: 9am, Carpark corner of Denison St & Billabong Ln Gloucester
Trip Class: C – This trip is not trailer friendly. This trip may be altered or cancelled in the
event of wet weather.
Limit: 6 vehicles - This trip is not camper trailer friendly.
Bring: Food, water, recovery gear, cool weather camping gear
Minimum
Requirements: Stage 1 DTU, good all terrain tyres
After meeting in the carpark off Billabong Lane we will take a meandering route out of Glouces-
ter North along the Bucket’s way. Passing through rolling scenic hills we will climb into the Ta-
pin Tops National Park passing relics from the logging & gold mining past of this area as well as
taking at scenic waterfalls and epic views. We will then decent into the
Cells River State Conservation area exploring this rugged river system
and poking our head down an old gold mine. Climbing out to the Ox-
ley Highway we will make our way to camp in the Mummel Gulf Na-
tional Park.
Sunday morning, we will head off again passing some hidden lookouts
before making our way back towards Gloucester along Thunderbolts
Way, arriving mid afternoon to allow plenty of time to head home
before dark.
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Snowy River Country
Saturday 31st October – Friday 13th November
Trip Leader: Lachlan Thomas 0403 083 191
Where: Kosciusko National Park NSW, Victorian High Country
Meet: Saturday 31st October 6 pm, Lake Jindabyne Hotel, Kosciusko Road Jindabyne
NSW.
Trip Class: C+ / B- This trip has not been fully reccied. In the event of wet
weather this trip will become B grade.
Limit: 6 vehicles - This trip is not camper trailer friendly.
Bring: Food, water, recovery gear, full tank of alpine fuel, firewood, Winter camping gear.
Trip parameters subject to change based on government restrictions where applicable.
After being stuck at home and told to use up some accumulated leave I came up with the crack-pot idea of
running a trip to the Snowy River Country on the first week of the tracks reopening after Winter, so…..
After meeting at the Lake Jindabyne Hotel for dinner and a pub feed everyone has the option to stay where
they like in town, further details on this to follow closer to the time. Sunday morning will see us leaving
Jindabyne bright and early and heading south across the border and into the mountains. The exact tracks &
camps for this trip are still in the works (due to track closures, bushfires, seasonal closures, weather etc.)
The general idea is that we’ll start on the eastern side of the Victorian High Country at the Snowy River,
and slowly make our way westward finishing up at Craig’s Hut around 12 days later, whilst taking in as
many tracks and High Country tourist hot-spots as we can manage.
This trip will not be camper trailer friendly and will be a mostly rolling trip. The plan is to spin through a
town every few days for fuel & supplies as needed, with us basing ourselves at Talbotville for a several
days in the middle of the trip to allow for rest time as needed and a chance to tackle a few of the local
tracks.
This trip is rated C+ to B-, the majority of tracks are extremely steep. Minimum requirements will include
good quality all terrain tyres and spare, a lift kit, appropriate alpine camping equipment, rated recovery
points front & rear as well as the ability to be self-sufficient for supplies.
Please shoot me a text if you’d like to put your name down
and
don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’ve got any questions.
36
AGUIP & PILLIGA- PENDING
Depart — Nov still in planning mode
Return — Nov still in planning mode
Duration— 9 days
Vehicles Qty— 8 camper trailer and caravan friendly
Plans are to go to Gunnedah for the 3 full days of Agqip where you may come and go at your lei-
sure and spend some time sightseeing around the area.
Then drive to Baradine where we can base camp. On the first day we go via dirt roads visit Dan-
bury Gorge and the sandstone caves (walking is required). The second day we visit the salt caves
and an old Heritage Listed Saw Mill set up which I was told has been in the one family for gener-
ations (on private property so we have to obtain permission to visit).
The following day we start for home with a stop at Goulburn River N/p or Coolah Tops N/P if
open to the public (we may extend the trip for an extra day or two if the group wishes too).
If people wish they may join or leave the group at various points. Eg. Attend Agquip alone, meet
us at Baradine or go straight home from Baradine.
Contact —Trevor Banks
Phone — 0428972763
37
Piston Broke
Trophy
And the Piston Broke Trophy goes to
Drum roll please
Ian and Fiona Fisher
I believe its going straight to the
POOL ROOM
38
IMPORTANT NOTICES
The lease manager would like to remind everyone not to feed the horses
at the lease as they become too familiar and can cause damage to cars, vans
and tents.
Also, just a reminder, that NO PETS are allowed at the We-Leaser under any
circumstances, unless they are a registered assistance animal, and have been
approved by the Committee.
One more thing…… When visiting the lease please remember to sign in to
the visitor book, as this is an official club site and we are required to take
attendance, just like we do at club meetings and trips.
39
Presentations Driver Awareness
Training
We have some great news from our
Driver Training Officer
Dave Edwards.
!!! DRIVE TRAINING IS ON !!! Training Dates for Stage II—18th 19th July
At the Lease
Training Date for Stage I– 16th August
Awaba Quarry
Get in quick
Contact Dave on—0418605445
40
Upcoming Driver Training Date Event Class Trip Leader Telephone Limit
March 21st 22nd
2020
DTU Stage 2
C Dave Edwards 0418605445 6
April 19th 2020
DTU Stage 1 D Dave Edwards 0418605445 8
May 16th 17th
2020
DTU Stage 2 C Dave Edwards 0418605445 6
June 21st
DTU Stage 1
D Dave Edwards 0418605445 8
July 18th 19th DTU Stage 2
C Dave Edwards 0418605445 6
August 16th
DTU Stage 1
D Dave Edwards 0418605445 8
Sept 19th 20th
DTU Stage 2
C Dave Edwards 0418605445 6
Oct 18th
DTU Stage 1
D Dave Edwards 0418605445 8
Nov 21st 22nd
DTU Stage 2
C Dave Edwards 0418605445 6
41
Stage One
Dates for 2020— all sessions start at 8 a.m. and run until approximately 4 pm
16TH August
Where: Cooranbong Community Centre, 614 Freeman’s Drive, Cooranbong.
What to bring: Food and drink for the day, a pen, basic recovery gear and a readiness for
learning.
What to expect:
Stage One training is an introductory course to 4WD. The day is split into two parts,
initially at the community centre and involves theory, starting with the basic me-
chanics and safety knowledge of a 4x4.
Morning Tea break allows the trainers to work with each participant and their vehicle,
locating and identifying the necessary safety equipment in their truck.
The next session outlines driving techniques over various terrains and an introduction
to club protocols.
After lunch we move into a practical training session allowing you to practice your skills
in a safe, supervised area. This session will cover the essential safety technique of a
stall start recovery, followed by practice in picking a line in assents, descents and
basic rock steps.
Driver Awareness Training DTU
Images by Brad Tooth
42
Stage Two
Dates for 2020—sessions start Saturday 8 am, with additional opportunities on Sunday
18th 19th July
Where: Club Lease ‘We-Leaser’ Dungog.
What to bring: Food and drink for the two days, however, dinner is provided on the Saturday
night. Vehicle checklist from Stage One training and recovery gear.
Recovery Gear: Front and Rear recovery points, snatch strap, bridle or tree protector, damp-
ener and rated shackles. Please note, that a trainer will accompany you during the practice
drive and there must be a seat available in your vehicle.
What to expect:
Stage Two training is a full day of practical exercises completed as a team to expand on the
knowledge gained in Stage One training.
We further investigate aspects of vehicle maintenance, practising pre-trip inspections and
completing a tyre change.
After morning tea, we revise the stall start recovery and simulate simple snatch strap re-
covery techniques- this is where you finally get to use all that wonderful gear you’ve
brought along.
In the afternoon we head out the back gate and put our training into practice. Taking the
back tracks through the State Forests we complete rutted and rocky tracks and simple
water crossings.
Prior to dinner, we complete a simple revision assessment as a group.
Upon completion of Stage Two, you will be prepared to undertake the NSW and ACT 4WD As-
sociation Accreditation certificate, a nationally recognised qualification.
Driver Awareness Training DTU
43
GVM upgrades and Weight Limits -
What I have learnt so far (Sean Du Toit)
I will start off by saying that I am definitely not an engineer and that I certainly do not have all the facts, nor is this article
comprehensive by any stretch of the imagination. This is simply my experience so far, which may help people considering
a new 4WD.
In 2017 we purchased a brand spanking new Prado 150 2.8D. At the time I thought this was my forever 4WD and that
there was not limit to the future ability of my vehicle. Time has taught me a few lessons to the contrary.
I don’t want this to seem like a negative article so it is important that I point out my experience with my Prado. It has been
a great vehicle both on and off road. While I don’t go out and attempt to do things that are car destroying, I have done
some fairly serious 4WD tracks in my vehicle. We have done both off road and beach driving as well as the club DTU
training. To date I have never felt like my vehicle is coming close to it’s limits and it has been very impressive and far
more capable than we ever expected.
The first real big trip we did in our Prado was down the south coast of NSW and into a small section of The Victorian High
Country, while towing a small camper trailer. This was a big learning experience and highlighted some of the limits of my
SUV, remembering that at that stage it was a stock standard car with stock road tyres fitted. One of the scary facts was
that looking back we were probably towing above our unbraked towing capacity.
I have included some figures which most people probably already understand, however I have added them for
completeness.
Kerb weight (KW) is the weight of the vehicle, oil and a full tank of fuel. This is your starting point. Sometimes the Tare
weight is quoted but that is rather useless in the real world as Tare is an empty fuel tank (except for 10l), fuel being one
of those basic necessities.
Your vehicle GVM (gross vehicle mass) is the maximum mass your vehicle can weigh at any time. The GVM includes
anything and everything in or added to your vehicle. Fuel, luggage, passengers and other bits and pieces like bull bar,
larger tyres, recovery gear, fridges etc. Therefore, while your GVM may sound high initially the weight adds up quickly
and just to make matters worse you need to include the ball weight of your trailer in your GVM.
The payload or weight your vehicle can carry is easy to calculate, it is simply GVM – Kerb weight. In my vehicle the theo-
retical payload is 2990kg-2335kg = 655kg. I can only use the weight on my Rego papers as a starting point since the ve-
hicle was never weighed by us before modifications.
Putting this into practice is rather more technical in the real world. I weighed my car with a full tank of fuel once I had add-
ed some accessories, namely bull bar, winch, suspension and tyres and under body protection. I was a little surprised to
discover that the car now weighed 2600kg with only a driver in the car. Doing the calculations means my payload was
now only 390kg. Some may think that is still plenty, read on.
I started weighing everything I put in my vehicle when we travel. In my case, 2 passengers, a fridge with 2nd battery, re-
covery gear, camping gear, food, water and other drinks. The weight adds up quickly and I discovered I had very little to
play with, less than 30kg’s, which was very scary.
The reason I did this was because there is more and more talk about the legalities of vehicle weight and towing capaci-
ties. The last thing anyone needs is to be found to be overweight. The legal ramifications can range from fines to being
charged with manslaughter if someone is killed in an accident and insurance claim refusal on the basis of being over-
44
weight. Have you considered what could happen if you get stopped 2000k’s from home and are found to be over your GVM?
Have you checked the weight of your vehicle when fully loaded, including passengers?
Back to the initial issue of a GVM upgrade. I got some quotes which ranged from 4 to 5 thousand dollars. One of the frustra-
tions is that when I did the suspension upgrade, I had no idea about the GVM limitations. My suspension is not part of a GVM
upgrade and there is no option for this on my vehicle with this suspension kit. That means that I would be removing perfectly
good suspension and taking a massive loss in the deal. As we live, we learn. I was not part of a 4WD club at that stage and
had lots to learn.
There is a YouTube video available where a guy sorted out his own GVM upgrade as he wanted to use a specific suspension
setup. Search for “How to get a GVM Upgrade with your current Lift Kit!”. This guy is however in WA so not sure how you
would go in NSW. I called a few engineering places and one suggested I do a towing upgrade at around 7k. My research has
suggested that this would have been a lot of badly spent money as towing upgrades are not legal from everything I have
read.
The second part of my problem is towing ability of the Prado. My vehicle owner manual suggests that my maximum towing
capacity is 2500kg. Remember however the other limit being the GCM (gross combined mass). This is the maximum com-
bined weight of the vehicle and trailer, not forgetting the fact that GVM includes tow ball weight. My vehicle GCM is 5370kg.
Once I started crunching the numbers it all became a little disturbing. One article suggested that in reality a trailer mass of
about 75% of maximum towing capacity is more what a person should be looking at. This equates to 1850kg ’s on my car. As
a side note the latest Toyota Prado specification sheet has an increased towing capacity of 3000kg on the auto Prado ’s, still
2500kg in manual spec. The GVM remains at 2990kg however.
In conclusion I feel a little ripped off by the industry. There are many articles available and more than one suggests that we
are being misled by the industry quoted figures. We have looked at off-road caravans and when the weights are considered
my vehicle is very limited in what it can tow. My research has also suggested that there are likely to be many tow vehicles out
there that are not within legal weight limits, when towing their holiday accommodation.
I can imagine the non-Toyota supporters saying that it’s a vehicle issue, however the figures are true for most vehicles, even
bigger vehicles like the Toyota Landcruiser 200 series. To substantiate this claim I looked up some other vehicle weight lim-
its. One of the Yank tanks the Chevrolet Silverado has a 2588kg kerb weight and 3300kg GVM, that is only a 712kg payload. At
maximum towing capacity of 4500kg that leaves only 72kg, rather unbelievable. The latest Navara has a specified payload of 968kg,
but according to a road test the standard rear suspension is not stiff enough to comfortably support that weight.
The ute market allows a bit more payload but with some big trade-offs. The cost of adding accessories like canopies to a ute
is high and generally utes don’t offer the same ride quality and luxury as an SUV, although it does appear that the newer utes
are starting to offer more in this respect. If money is not an issue a ute is probably more likely to offer a better overall solution
at a higher cost for certain modifications. Think about custom canopies which can cost well over 10k, not forgetting that eve-
rything adds weight to the vehicle. I have read an article where someone purchased a brand new Landcruiser 200 and
promptly chopped off the back to convert it into a luxury ute, clearly money was not an issue for them.
What is the solution? I have started to look at other ways to reduce my vehicle payload. One option at this stage is to reduce
small amounts of weight in many areas. Instead of dragging everything along from home, purchasing food and drinks at the
destination, a lighter recovery kit, possibly a Lithium battery, which is expensive but has many other benefits. There are also
other benefits to less weight such as reduced fuel consumption.
Hopefully this article will be useful for someone who has considered a GVM upgrade or a new vehicle. If anyone wants more
information, I am happy to send you some links to useful articles on the subject.
CC4WD club member Sean
45
SIMPSON DESERT Final Stage
13-29 JULY 2018.
David and Michelle Edwards – Toyota Prado
Glenn and Clarissa McCreadie – Nissan Patrol
Mick Ellis and Claire Campbell – Toyota FJ Cruiser
19 July
ODOMETER: 116249km
We had a slow start this morning and after packing up enjoyed what will be our last shower for a few days. Dave went to
fuel up, met the local mechanic and was given a tour of the workshop!
We took the track via Bloods Creek which was recommended as being in better condition. We stopped at the Ruins to
have a look around, fly a kite and top up the Nissan water.
The track is still heavily corrugated but becoming more sandy today. We carried on to Dalhousie Springs where we en-joyed a swim in the warm Artesian Spring and then had lunch in very windy and dusty conditions.
From there we headed to the Dalhousie Ruins – the site of another homestead and settlement and lots of date palms. Most of the dates have been removed as they aren’t compatible with the native vegetation.
Our camp for the night is a quiet spot at 3o’clock Creek. Unfortunately camp fires aren’t allowed but there is fresh, clean
spring water to top up our supplies.
DISTANCE: 111km
46
20 July
ODOMETER: 116360km
We packed up and set off about 9am after topping up all our water supplies at the spring fed tap. We passed through Dal-
housie again and aired down shortly afterwards. The travelling today is much slower as we drive through sand. Today we
are finally in the Simpson Desert Regional Reserve!
We travelled east along the French Line where our first stop was Purnie Bore for an early lunch and look around. We spot-
ted our first dingoes and LOTS of birdlife attracted to the water from the bore. This is the last spot for fresh water.
The landscape is spectacular with lots of red sand and the green of what little vegetation there is.
We reached the Rig Road Junction about 1pm and followed it briefly south and then east until the WAA Line. I was sur-
prised how few vehicles are on the track. The driving west to east is a constant roller coaster as we travel perpendicular to
the sand dunes but the north-south tracks follow the swales and are generally less sandy and quicker. (I expect these would
be slower if the track was wet).
We stopped not far along the WAA Line, just past the Colson track junction and set up camp for the night in a swale be-
tween dunes. We couldn’t see anyone else and once the sun set had no passing traffic. Tonight is a lot colder so the camp-
fire was very welcome and also kept the dingoes at bay as they skulked around the camp.
DISTANCE: 166km
47
21 July
ODOMETER: 116526km
Last night was the coldest so far – the water left in the kettle had turned to ice!
We had a relaxed start this morning and finally got going about 9.40am. It was very slow going in the sand – averaging
about 20km/hour.
We continued east along the WAA Line for a while and then tuned south to the Lone Gum where we had lunch. This is
not actually a gum but a solitary Coolabah Tree in the middle of the desert. There were plenty of nice spots to camp
nearby. We then retraced our way back to the WAA travelling along the swales which was a bit quicker.
We set up camp for the night again in a swale along the WAA Line.
We had another camp fire and Clarissa cracked open a bottle of French Champagne which we drank on the top of a
dune whilst we watched the sunset. As we were doing this we spotted another vehicle in the next swale and they set
off some fireworks – it was an awesome experience.
DISTANCE: 103km.
22 July
ODOMETER: 116629
We had another relaxed start today but it wasn’t as cold as yesterday although still cool.
Today we continued east along the WAA Line to WAA Corner where we turned left passing the Approdinna Attora
Knolls as we headed north until we reached the east-west French Line Track. The French Line is the most frequently
used track and is more bumpy with lots of ruts and even slower going. We crossed many spectacular salt pans as we
continued our journey eastward.
48
We arrived at Poeppels Corner (Where Queensland, NT and SA meet) around 3pm and took some obligatory photos whilst
brushing off the multitude of flies.
From Poeppel’s we headed North West, stopping for the night at about 4pm, camping just within the Northern Territory Bor-
der. We enjoyed another stunning sunset and camp fire with dingoes once again skulking around.
DISTANCE: 101km
23 July
ODOMETER: 116730km
We packed up about 9 this morning and headed north to the QAA Line (in Queensland). This is basically a direct straight line
west – east to Big Red, and very well marked with radio call markers every 5km.The dunes seem to get taller today but the
distance between them longer. There was also a lot more traffic on this track and we used the radio frequently to alert on-
coming vehicles to our presence.
At one stage we even passed a west bound ambulance and police car.
The vegetation also changed quite dramatically today with the trees/shrubs becoming fewer. We considered stopping for the
night but there were very few sheltered areas suitable for camping so we carried on to Big Red, arriving about 3.30pm.
49
BIG RED:
We were surprised to find that we were the only vehicles at Big Red so we had ample time to have a play! Mick had no trou-
ble getting to the top first go. Dave had a few attempts but had to take the less steep track to the right, as did Glen and
Clarissa. Mick, Glen and Clarissa all had multiple attempts at the ascent and we took lots of pictures. It is even more appar-
ent from the top of the dune just how dry the surrounding country is.
We eventually left Big Red, arriving in Birdsville around 4.30pm. Although we had actually planned to camp the extra night
in the desert, we spent the night in the Caravan Park: Dave and I camped while the others manage to secure cabins. We all
enjoyed a hot shower and then enjoyed drinks and dinner at the iconic Birdsville Hotel followed by an early night.
DISTANCE: 167km
24 July
ODOMETER: 116897km
Today was a free day, spent in Birdsville. The sunrise was spectacular but I think I was the only one up that early! We all
did some washing and caught up on emails.
We had breakfast at the Famous Birdsville Bakery and checked out the Visitors Centre for new info and the road status. (I
bought a few books to read!).
We wandered around town to take a few pics.
We also went for a short drive to check out the Diamantina River (very low and muddy) and The “Slash Tree” (a bit of a dis-
appointment).
We had a bit of an afternoon nap after checking into our rooms at the Birdsville Hotel. These were very modern and com-
fortable and just behind the hotel itself, so an easy stagger from the bar!
We enjoyed another meal (and a few drinks) in the Pub. DISTANCE: 13km !!
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25 July
ODOMETER: 116910
Today we began our journey homeward bound, heading initially north –east out of Birdsville where the track had a lot of
small loose stones and was VERY dusty. It wasn’t long before we turned right and headed south along the Cordillo
Downs Track back into South Australia.
Our first stop was at the Cadelga Homestead Ruins for morning tea. There is not a lot left of this old homestead but is on
a creek that still has plenty of water. It looks well used as a camp site but is badly littered and grafitti’ed.
We had the first rainfall of our trip on the next leg – a very brief shower which only momentarily dampened the dust
clouds. We pulled into look at the Heritage listed Cordillo Downs Woolshed for lunch. This is a large stone shearing shed
on what was once the largest sheep property in the country. Cordillo now runs cattle and still operates as a pastoral lease.
Our journey continued through the Innamincka Regional Reserve where the road was mostly a rich red- brown sandy dirt
with some corrugations. There is a touch of green along the shoulders of the road and in the surrounding country but still
predominantly very dry.
We arrived at Innamincka mid-afternoon and enjoyed a drink at the Innamincka Hotel before checking into our accommo-
dation (demountable cabins).
It was back to the Hotel for dinner before heading to bed.
DISTANCE: 437km
26 July
ODOMETER: 117334km
First stop this morning was a slight detour to the site of Burkes Grave. This is a stunning spot on the banks of Cooper
Creek with plenty of vegetation. It is the actual spot where the remains of Robert O’Hara Burke were found and he was
buried. (He was later exhumed and his remains are now in Melbourne).
After the detour we continued our journey south along the Old Strzlecki Track. This is very wide, very dry and in good con-
dition. There are many oil wells/derrys along the way.
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We stopped for morning tea on a property known as Merty Merty alongside another sand dune. Our journey then turned
eastwards as we headed to Cameron Corner (the point where SA, QLD and NSW meet) where we enjoyed hamburgers for
lunch and took some obligatory photos.
The countryside continues to be incredibly dry with a lot of kangaroos around – both dead and alive. We travelled through
the Sturt NP on Middle Road (avoiding the main highway).
We eventually arrived in Tibooburra, fuelled up and paid camping fees at the Family Hotel.
We camped the night in the Aboriginal Reserve on the edge of town. This was incredibly well set up with hot showers, flush-
ing toilets and a large undercover BBQ area – also very clean and tidy for $15.
DISTANCE: 428km.
27 July
ODOMETER: 117762km
This morning got off to a slower start than usual as Glenn managed to lock the car keys inside the Patrol! With the help of
some fencing wire and a timber wedge we headed to town for fuel and some breakfast before eventually continuing the
journey east.
The road is very straight, very sandy and in a poor condition with plenty of bull dust holes along the route. The road is a bit
like a roller coaster as we travel up and over the dunes.
We stopped in the little town of Wanaaring on the Paroo River for lunch where it is still incredibly dry. Before too long we
started to head south travelling through gibber country with lots of salt bush.
As we approached Louth, the very dusty Darling River flood plains stretched out in front of us dotted with kangaroos (dead
and alive) but not a blade of green grass to be seen. There are also lots of goats in the area, some forlorn looking sheep
and a few cattle.
We stopped at the Pub in Louth for a drink about 3pm, before heading to our camp on the Tilpa Road for the night. This
was on the banks of the Darling River on what appears to be private property. The River is very low – hard to believe that
Paddle Steams once travelled by here!
We built a lovely camp fire again and Clarissa cooked a delicious lamb roast. DISTANCE: 440 km
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29 July
ODOMETER: 118855km
Today was a big driving day as we head back toward the coast. From camp we continued to Tilpa and then to Cobar.
The country we travelled through today varied a lot. It started out very dry with few trees to red dirt and lots of scrub then
to cotton farms. There are still plenty of roos, sheep, cows and lots of goats.
We eventually reached the junction of the Barrier Highway where we aired up.
As Dave had driven all morning I took over but found it very difficult to keep to my side of the road and follow the lines –
too long driving on dirt without any boundaries!
Lunch was pies in a hot bake shop in Cobar – very yummy. As we headed south and approached Nyngan the country-
side was a little greener. After a quick toilet stop we encountered some very dark clouds but only a few spots of rain. We
had a quick coffee stop as we approached Dubbo and then the rain set in for the final leg of our journey to Mudgee.
We spent the night at the Oriental Hotel where we had old fashioned but comfortable rooms in what is a traditional Aus-
sie country pub. The restaurant was a lot more modern and we enjoyed the final meal of our trip with a beverage (or two
or three, or ….).
DISTANCE: 653 km
ODOMETER: 11855km
Dave and I had a late start as the others were all up early for their trip to Sydney. We found a bakery in town for break-
fast and then stopped at the Lowe Winery when it opened at 10am. We bought some wine and then finally left Mudgee
at 10.30am. We arrived home about 3pm after a short toilet stop at Merriwa and Coles for groceries.
DISTANCE: 376 km.
TOTAL DISTANCE: 5939 km.
The whole trip was an extremely memorable experience enjoyed in great company. We covered a huge variety of terrain
and unfortunately saw much of the country in the grips of a terrible drought. Such terrain is incredibly harsh on the vehi-cles and we were all very fortunate not to have any major issues - although the Nissan overheating issues gave some cause for concern and the FJ windscreen’s encounter with a large rock did momentarily shatter our plans. We did how-ever “soldier” on and can now claim to have “crossed the Simpson Desert”, whilst whetting all our appetites for more travel adventures in the future. Thanks Mick, Claire, Glenn, Clarissa for the organisation and welcoming us on your trip –
it was great fun!
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It’s a difficult job to run a trip and only for special people. “NUP”
First of you have to choose where you wish to go and what you would see along the
way.
You get to choose when and where the trip starts from and the duration of the trip.
You have to stay out in front of the trip and not behind somebody else’s dust cloud.
You get to see the wildlife before a group of four wheel drives thundering down the
track scares it off.
After the trip you get to have everybody praise you for getting them lost along the
way.
Is it difficult to run a trip .– NUP.—We are here to support you
Most of this list is trips done by club members and only touches on the possible des-
tinations as this country is one great four wheel drive destination and If you wish to
explore it often there is somebody that would love to tag along.
So if you’re not sure, try raising an expression of interest and do not be backward
in asking for help and suggestions , as often others have knowledge to give you or
you could ask Mr Google or one of the many 4x4 books for Help.
If it’s a Spur of the moment thing it’s also possible to advertise it on the clubs pri-
vate Facebook site or E-Mail to the club Editor and Tripmaster, download an attend-
ance form from the club web site and have fun..
Your trip could cover from a day to several weeks, be difficult or a simple drive or
event to attend some possible destinations are.
I will keep the list in the Magazine ,if you would like to put forward some sugges-
tions I will add to the list .
Are thinking you would like to put on a
“Club Trip “????
Not sure where to go???
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Yalwal Circuit
Polblue
Crowdy bay National Park
Coolah tops National park
Lithgow /Turon River
Cells River
Talwahl/Myall lakes
Watagans day trip/ Weekend
Victorian High Country
Back Road to Bilpin
Back Road to Cedar Creek
Patonga
Bendethra
Swans Crossing
Woko Via the Barringtons
Western Wollemi/ Dunnes Swamp
Newnes
Wadbilliga
Dungog Day Trip
Stockrington State Conservation Area
Caves to Caves – Jenolan Caves to
Abercrombie Caves
Ourimbah State Forest Day trip
We Leaser Weekend trips via back gate
Awaba
Knorrit Flats
Upper Colo Reserve
Mount Sugerloaf
Yengo N.P.
Finchley lookouts and Carvings
Fort Scratchley
Maitalnd Gaol
Cockatoo Island
The tunnel systems Sydney
St Albans / sections gGeat North Walk
Blue Mountains N.P.
Hill End
Ophir
Nundle S.F
Coffs harbour and Hinterland
Yerranderie– WombeyanCaves
Pilliga N.P.
Myall Lakes
Farquar Inlet
Point Plumer
Glen Davis
Agquip
A social evening of bowls
Events around area i.e. Billy cart races
at Gresford
Further afield
Vic High Country
Darling River
Victoria N.P.
Flinders Ranges
Border Ranges
Moreton Island
Frazer Island
Cape York
The Simpson
The Kimberley’s
Googs Track S.A
Past Trips— 4WD and Social
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57
Images thanks to
Jane Savage and Steve Turdak
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Links to Handy Websites
National Parks NSW
Forestry Corporation NSW (State Forests)
Live Traffic NSW
Rural Fire Service NSW
Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
Without a Hitch - Advice on CB Radio Channels
Handy Phone apps
Wikicamps – a great app with details and photos of campsites contributed by campers
BOM – the Government weather app
Mud Maps – shows off road tracks and allows you to create a track log that you can follow
Memory Maps - shows off road tracks and allows you to create a track log that you can fol-
low
Hema Maps - shows off road tracks and allows you to create a track log that you can follow
Fires Near Me NSW (there are equivalents in other states if you are venturing further
afield)
Google maps will show you where you are while on designated roads and can also show
you traffic conditions but will not be reliable once you are in the bush.
NSW Alerts (there are equivalents in other states)
Fuel Map – guide to fuel locations.
Live Traffic NSW
Cessnocks Fantastic 30 ft Lizard Monsters
60 If you have any issues logging on to the association website, please contact Mark Roper—0420976784
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62
THE CENTRAL COAST 4 WHEEL DRIVE CLUB
DRIVER TRAINING UNIT
NEEDS MEMBERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN BECOMING DRIVER
TRAINERS
THIS IS DIRECTED TO ALL MEMBERS AND MEMBERS PARTNERS / WIFE'S
NOT JUST MALE MEMBERS
REQUIREMENTS
Minimum 2 years Club Membership
Have completed the Clubs Stage 1 & 2 Training
Have completed Association Basic Training
{Drive & Recover a Four Wheel Drive Vehicle }
Are willing to undergo / obtain Association Training
( Drive and Recover a Four Wheel Drive Vehicle
In Difficult Terrain ) at the next available opportunity
Are willing to give 10 weekends per year to assist the DTU
The DTU commitment is for a 3 Year period
Expressions of interest to be directed to
The Executive Committee
Central Coast Four Wheel Drive Club
PO Box 4354
Lake Haven NSW 2263
__
Club Merchandise For Sale Club clothing is a great way to promote our club and show your support for responsible
4WDriving and the clothing is good value.
Contact: Bill McConville 0411 433 232
Jacket (polar fleece with emblem) $35.00
Green sleeveless vest (polar fleece with emblem) $30.00
Club Shirt (with Embroidered Club Logo) $30.00
Long Sleeve Bisley Shirt (with Embroidered Club Logo) $55.00
Optional Extra (with first Name only) POA
Wet Weather light-weight Jacket (with Embroidered Club Logo) POA
Extra name plate badges (new style) $10.00
Baseball Caps (with Embroidered Club Logo) $15.00
Floppy Hats (like Cricket hats with Embroidered Club Logo) $18.00
Beanies (with Embroidered Club Logo) $15.00
Scarves (with Embroidered Club Logo) $18.00
Stubby Holders (with Logo) $5.00
Club Stickers $5.00
CC4WD Club Windscreen Stickers Large $20.00
CC4WD Club Windscreen Stickers Medium $12.00
CC4WD Club Windscreen Stickers Short $8.00
Our windscreen stickers are made by one of our club members, Chris Newbold and donated to the
club. Thank you Chris!
64
GREAT NEWS !
Boarding House Dam Watagans
65
OUR CLUB WEBSITE
Click here to visit our club website www.cc4wdc.org.au
The website is a great resource with information about our club as well as club
magazines, up coming trips, past trips, FAQ’s and memorabilia. If you have anything you
would like to contribute please email [email protected]
CLUB FACEBOOK PAGE
Our Club Facebook page now has close to 1000 followers and is a
great place to view recent club trips, videos, photos, tips, information about state forests
and national parks. Just search on Facebook for Central Coast 4wd club and “Like” our
page.
CLUB FACEBOOK MEMBERS GROUP
This is a closed Facebook group that is only open to current financial members of our
club. It is a great place to post your trip photos, have a general chat and discuss all
things four wheel driving!.
To join, search for CC4WDC members group on Facebook and click the blue button "Join
Group"
Your request to join will then be submitted for approval by one of the Admin team who
will check that you are a financial member and then approve your request.
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE NSW & ACT ASSOCIATION
The Four Wheel Drive NSW & ACT Association has its own website with information
about the association and its current activities
• Click here to go to www.4wdnow.com
• Find the “login” option on the left of the page
• Register your details
• Once verified by our club you will have access to the members area
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To all
The July babes young
and old
Happy Birthday
Hope its grand
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