TRACK. Torque. October 2011 Newsletter. Inside this issue: Track Torque. Responsible Four Wheel Driving And Family Touring

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1 Responsible Four Wheel Driving And Family Touring Track Torque TRACK October 2011 Newsletter Torque The President s Page Inside this issue: Member s Page Minutes from September General Meeting Trip Reports Club trips Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 1

2 WANGARATTA 4X4 CLUB President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Committee Members Social Coordinator Membership Property Newsletter Editor Trip Coordinator 4WD Victorian Representative Instructor & Training Web Master Publicity Officer Merchandise Sergeant At Arms Past President David Jackson David Blore Bruce Gooday Ian Watkins Dean Cunico David Blore Craig Cheetham Maria Lucas Tom Barnard Craig Cheetham Jim Bramich Terry Dillon Andrew Brown Ron Beurs Ron Beurs David Robinson WEBSITE: The Wangaratta 4WD Club has evolved from a few members in 1983, to a membership of over 40. The Club is made up of individuals and families who are interested in responsible Four Wheel Driving. There is no restriction on the make or type of four wheel drive vehicle, and there is always plenty of variety and camaraderie amongst members. Where we live: Members live all over the North East and beyond, including from Benalla, Beechworth, Glenrowan, Milawa, Albury, Wodonga, Wangaratta, Goorambat, Tatong and Melbourne. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club is a member of the Victorian Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs. Affiliations: Members of our club are proud to be part of the Adopt a Hut Program and work with Parks Victoria to look after Top Crossing and Lake Cobbler huts. We are also affiliated with the South Coast Four Wheel Drive Club based at Wollongong, and the Four Wheel Drive Club of WA. Current members of the respective clubs are entitled to Reciprocal Membership.. Membership: Single or family $80 p.a. General Meetings are held on the 2 nd Tuesday of the month, generally at the North East Car Club Rooms, Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve, commencing 8.00pm. There is no meeting in January. Please refer to the club calendar. Visitors are always most welcome. Track Torque: Newsletter Contributions may be forwarded to Editor : Maria Lucas : editor@wangaratta4x4club.org.au Editorial Deadline Usually 1 st of the month. This is your newsletter so be a part of it and send any articles of interest, comments, birthdays, etc, to the editor. Advertising: $80.00/yr. Please contact the editor for further details. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the articles in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the editor or of Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc. The editor reserves the right to delete any section of any article, or reject any article, which has been sent in for publication in the Newsletter. Front Cover: Jamieson Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 2

3 The President s Page Track Torque Well another months gone - seems the older you get the quicker time goes by. Congratulations Firstly, CONGRATULATIONS, our club membership has now reached the half century for the first time, yes 50 family or individual active memberships. To those that regularly espouse the benefits of (our) the 4wd lifestyle to their friends and acquaintances, well done. Don't keep it a secret - I'm sure there are many who'd consider joining our club for the 4WD lifestyle. If you haven't been to one of our general meetings for a while, WOW has it changed, and more changes are a foot. Welcome to our latest members. Last month saw a couple of Club outings - the KTM Charity bash where a huge amount of money was raised for cancer research. We were really appreciated for our backup to the riders and the paramedics, thanks Noel H for organising our participation in the weekend. Another weekend away into the Jamieson area which was fantastic, make that fantasticur. Read the trip report in this issue, thanks Tom and your helpers. It seems that life is so busy all the time, work, family and all sorts of other commitments, of late it seems it's even hard to find time for trips - I'm reminded of a saying that I think came out of relationship counselling "If life is too busy to... then it probably is too busy" Chris and I are away most of this month working and then we're off to Vietnam for a couple of weeks R&R in November - to get this time organised we had to book it nearly 12 months ago - next year we're going to blank out slabs of the year so we can do a bit more local touring, hopefully with a few of you guys. Unfortunately the Club had to cancel out on this year s support for the 'special children 4wd adventure Interchange day' - we couldn't quite get the required numbers of vehicles/persons, we'll look at it again next year as part of our ongoing Clubs community involvement. Please keep in mind our Clubs 'Observation Day' suitable for all the family and all sorts of vehicles - Dean and Jackie have put a lot of time and effort into this day out, please support them and your fellow club members with your valued presence. Good to see Terry back in harness on the website - hope all our returning 'trippers' are getting back into the swing of things. November's special guest speakers are the comedy duo of David Blore and Terry Dillon who will present 'the Canning Stock Route for Dummies' so to see the latest video's of the area and to quiz the guest speakers on any subject (relating to their trip) be there on the 8th November. To Consider Just a few things to consider over the next month or so. Training - it's almost that time again for those that missed out last time - let Tom know if you're interested and once we have firm numbers we'll set a date. For those with an interest in obtaining 'Instructor trainer status' please lodge your interest with Tom by 21st October - there are a few pre-conditions that may limit new members - still if you're interested, best know what's entailed. Keep an eye out in the Wangaratta Chronicle for our first article on the club, I know I said that last month - hang in there, it's coming! Sorry - the very special price on the Maxxis BigHorn muddies has now finished - congratulations to those that saved hundreds of dollars on their sets Thanks Scotty for your very informative night on LED lighting - if you're in the market for LED lights for your rig contact Scott French from 'Designer Vans' for a very, very special club price. Touring Season 2012 We've had a great response from members interested in extended tours next year. Simpson Desert, Robe, Fraser Island, Border Track and the 'Beyong Hotham experience' If initial preparations are not made early - then in most likely-hood it'll not happen, so if you have any interest contact Tom. Our February guest speaker is Jim Atteridge our newest member who is also the CEO of the Mt Hotham Village. He'll be giving us a final briefing on the 'Beyond Hotham experience' (see our Trip Calendar) in which our Club will be involved in pre-marketing and hopefully in Trip leading over the 10 day period. That's all for this month, keep your eye on the website and the Trip Calendar, hope to see you all at the next general meeting David Jackson Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 3

4 Member s Page Track Torque CLUB APPAREL Club Tee Shirts, badgers, jumpers, windcheaters, etc are available from STEER Clothing - 52 Norton St, Wangaratta opposite the Wangaratta station. Phone: (The club shirt should be a dark green with gold embroidery.) Editor s Note: Once again thanks to all who contributed to the newsletter this month. Please remember when writing up a trip report to add all those who participated in the trip. The guys were all at a deer camp. No one wanted to room with Bob, because he snored so badly. They decided it wasn't fair to make one of them stay with him the whole time, so they voted to take turns. The first guy slept with Bob and comes to breakfast the next morning with his hair a mess and his eyes all bloodshot. They said, "Man, what happened to you? He said, "Bob snored so loudly, I just sat up and watched him all night." The next night it was a different guy's turn. In the morning, same thing, hair all standing up, eyes all bloodshot. They said, "Man, what happened to you? You look awful! He said, 'Man, that Bob shakes the roof with his snoring. I watched him all night." The third night was Fred's turn. Fred was a tanned, older cowboy, a man's man. The next morning he came to breakfast bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. "Good morning!" he said. They couldn't believe it. They said, "Man, what happened?" He said, "Well, we got ready for bed. I went and tucked Bob into bed, patted him on the butt, and kissed him good night. Bob sat up and watched me all night." With age comes wisdom. BEYOND HOTHAM If you are interested in having a look at what the Hotham trip has to offer go to the website. Something to keep in mind for the new year. Beyond Hotham website - Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 4

5 Meeting chaired by President David Jackson Minutes of General Meeting 13 September 2011 Present & Apologies: As per attendance book. Welcome: New member Paul Kelly was welcomed to the meeting. Speaker: Following a colourful introduction by President David, Club member Scott French outlined developments in LED light technology. He displayed a range of LED lights suitable for a wide variety of applications and offered tips on how not to set fire to your van if doing your own installation. Scott s offer to supply lights at cost to club members was well received. Minutes of August meeting: Approved Ron Beurs/Robbo Correspondence: Cross Country Jeep Club Newsletter; Nissan Newsletter; Credit Union Statement; High Country Huts Newsletter and invoice; FWDV: notice of Reg Reps meeting; Delegates brief sheet; Business Plan ; Raffle tickets. Treasurer: no report Future Trips/Activities: Family Treasure Hunt Oct date TBA Jamieson area Sept Interchange Day 5 Oct Track Clearing Oct Licola to Wonnangatta early Nov Snowy River mid-week early Nov Benalla Day in the Gardens 6 Nov Trip Reports: KTM Cancer Ride Noel Ham Lake Eyre / Flinders / Arkaroola Scott French Border Track / Naracoorte Res / Red Bluff Noel Ham Warrumbungle NP / Pilliga NP / Dorrigo NP Bruce Gooday Beechworth to eternity Tom Barnard Fines session conducted by Ron Beurs General Business: President David reported on: Proposed NSW regulations relating to 4WDs; Proposed regular feature in Wangaratta Chronicle; Club participation in Beyond Hotham event. Meeting closed at 9.33pm Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 5

6 GUEST SPEAKER for the OCTOBER GENERAL MEETING Satellite phones. All you need to know. Some great information and deals will be presented by David Jackson so make sure you re there if you re interested in a sat phone. GUEST SPEAKER for the NOVEMBER GENERAL MEETING A presentation of the Canning Stock Route by Terry and David. It will be an entertaining night for all. Committee Meeting Rap The committee met on 27 September. Membership applications of Jim Atteridge and Matt Lebner were approved subject to receipt of relevant fees. The committee has decided to recommend to the general club membership that it is no longer appropriate to award a Most Valuable Member trophy at the club s annual birthday dinner. The committee would rather the club acknowledge members contributions as they occur during the year and not try to select one member (to the exclusion of all others) once a year. The reasons for the committee s decision will be explained at the October general meeting. In response to a member s suggestion, the committee has decided to introduce an open forum session at general meetings. Members will be invited to ask for technical advice, to offer advice, to announce impending additions to the family, to have a go at the committee, to request trip information, or to just have a brag about their vehicles and equipment. The general idea is to provide a forum to share information. Initially there will be no rules, but please keep it short. Bruce Gooday Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 6

7 FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VICTORIA Driving In A Sustainable Environment For more information visit the website: The following information has been taken from E-news and the FWD Victoria website. If you would like to receive a free copy of E-news, the Fwd Vic office and ask to be placed on the list. office@fwdvictoria.org.au Victorian High Country Huts Association VHCHA For information about huts please visit VHCHA website : This site has further information on the Victorian High country huts and activities associated with each area. Our club is a member of this organisation, with Graeme Abotomey our representative. Albury Wodonga s Complete 4WD Equipment Centre DISCOUNT FOR CLUB MEMBERS Andrea Simmons ARB ALBURY Ph Fax asimmons@arb.com.au Hume Street Albury (Next to Hungry Jack s) Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 7

8 Personal First Aid List The following is a list of suggested items, from our 1 st aid officer Jackie, which members should have in their First aid kits. Check your first aid kit and see what needs restocking. Every member should have a wellstocked first aid kit in their car. One way valve face mask (not a shield) Latex Gloves (lots of them) 2 10cm crepe bandages (good for snake bites or sprains) 2 #15 Sterile Wound Dressing (good for stopping blood loss) 1 Small Sterile Wound Dressing 2 Triangular bandages (good for sprains) 3 Gauze bandages (various sizes) (good for applying pressure) 2 Combine dressings 2 Eye pads 20cm of Fixomul (good for deep burns and wounds) Steri Strips (for closing small wounds) Ankle tape (great for loads of things- not just first aid) 2 Saline Solution Tubes (good for irrigating eyes and wounds) Antiseptic wipes Alcohol swabs Tweezers Splinter probes Scissors Space blanket Safety pins Paw Paw Antiseptic cream Burn aid Stop itch cream Disposable heat packs Panadol Strepsils Antihistamines Pencil and note pad CPR flow chart First Aid booklet. Matches Personal Medication and Medi Alerts Asthma puffers Epi Pens (at least 2) Diabetic Insulin in a case (with pick me up food) First Aid Kit (Easy to store compartments, able to be zipped up) Notes to consider: How many people will be travelling in your car? (Wife, Husband, Kids, Friends) Always inform your trip leader of important medical information. Squires Sports & Mowers Sales & Repairs Mowers, Brushcutters, Chainsaws, Wood Heaters & Bicycles Trevor & Terese Squires 53 Nunn Street, Benalla 3672 Phone/Fax: squiressportsmowers@bigpond.com Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 8

9 KTM CANCER CHARITY RIDE The KTM Cancer Charity ride is over for another year and once again the Club has played a significant part in providing assistance to the organisers and riders. Despite some unavoidable withdrawals, five club members in four vehicles attended Campbell in the patrol ute, David and Terry in the Discovery, Ron in the Mahindra (with caravan in tow) and myself in the ute. After leaving the caravan and camper at James s reserve, we headed up to Charnwood to report for duty. This year we were split into two groups; David, Terry and Campbell were assigned the top of Golden Mount for morning duty, while Ron and I were sent across to Gardiners Lane. We were also accompanied by Heath who was in charge of the insurance cover for the event. I m pleased to report that our morning session was quite uneventful, the biggest challenge was getting a fire going and avoiding the chilly wind. Not so apparently for the other crew who were called to assist an injured rider before they had even reached their designated post. Then, before lunch they were called to assist a lost rider after some confusion by some of the riders over the corner man system. Of course, that never happens to us 4WDers... After lunch, Ron, Heath and I headed to our assigned position on Golden Mount, while the other crew were to set up at the White Gum Gully camping area. We soon had the obligatory fire going, checked out the great view from the lookout area and got ourselves settled nicely around the fire, when the call came through for assistance for an injured rider near the top of Police track. Hmmm, that would be a job for the other crew who were much closer to the scene than we were, but in spite of many calls to them (DJ wouldn t even answer his mobile phone!) we got no response. Ron stayed to provide lollies and drinks to the riders and keep the fire company, while Heath and I set off to find the rider. When we located him, we found he d aggravated an old knee injury and was having problems standing on the foot pegs, so Heath rode the bike back to camp while I ferried the rider back. On arrival at camp we organised some ice and a compression bandage until medical assistance arrived and were about to head back to Ron, when the other crew arrived with news of their adventures during the afternoon. It turned out that they didn t even get to their destination at White Gum Gully; they were called to assist an injured rider over on lightning ridge track, and were busy coordinating the recovery of both the rider and his bike. No wonder we couldn t get in contact with them! DJ, Terry and Campbell bade us farewell and headed for home, and Ron arrived shortly after, having completed duties on the mountain, so we stayed at camp, chatting to the crew there until tea time. A lovely roast dinner was a fitting reward for our efforts for the day, and the return of a chilly breeze prompted us to retreat to the comfort of Ron s caravan back at the Reserve. A coffee and a glass of port added considerably to the level of comfort, and we talked for some time before heading off to bed for a well earned rest. The chilly wind persisted next morning and with the accompanying drizzle patches, we paid close attention to the fire as we completed our final assignment for the weekend, thankfully without incident. The overnight attrition rate was fairly high, with only the true aficionados remaining to see the event to its conclusion. A job well done, with Heath assuring us that our assistance was critical in securing the necessary insurance cover for the event. I haven t heard the total amount raised yet, but the charity auction held on the Saturday night raised more than $6000 compared to $3000 last year so I imagine the result will be very favourable. Thanks to all for their help and assistance: a great way to contribute to the ongoing fight against cancer. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 9

10 Jamieson Broadside Weekend September Doctors Creek Camp ground just outside Jamieson was the meeting place and first night camp-site on Friday night for the much anticipated Jamieson Broadside weekend. Brett and Dale in their Pajero arrived during the afternoon to prepare camp and a roaring fire. David J, young David F and Dino in the Disco 3 arrived just before dark while the remaining party made up of past president Robbo in his GQ, Burkey and Kate in their 80 series and leaders extraordinaire Tom B and David A together with younger Tom A and the ever present Zoe in Toms revamped GQ patrol arriving just before 9pm. Camera man for the weekend was young Tom Ashford - quite a professional operator with a video camera (sometimes 2) darting here and there, jumping out the vehicle at various opportune times to get the good shot - well done Tom, keep it up. Camp-site next morning showed a plethora of (club) camping styles from the family dome tent, thru a 'not sure what you'd call it Robbo' tent balancing on top of a picnic table, to all manner of swags strewn around the camp ground - all with the single vision of keeping well away 'read out of earshot' of the two snoring David's. Brett and Dale were last to bed and so deserved to be first up next morning continuing the laughter and hysterics that a weekend away in the bush seems to conjure up with most of us. 9:30 was take off time with Tom leading the way towards Mitchell Track which seemed over the next two days to go on forever. Other than 2 monstrous stepped and rutted hills - one we eventually got up, the other not, and one very tricky water course which caught Brett out in, and one very rutted, covered over boggy, downhill curly track that reminded us of the Borneo Rally - every part of the Jamieson area would be in my mind classified as HARD - not necessarily extreme as we only used the winch a handful of times - but continuously Hard every moment of every day. The tracks were very steep and rough with well placed boulders and wash aways waiting for the unwary, maximum speed on any smoother section was never over 40km/hr and these were never any longer than 50 meters or so. This Hard classification would be a club classification NOT a 4wdVIC classification from whom there wouldn't be one for this type of terrain. I haven't in all the years of 4wdriving encountered an area (Jamieson) that was entirely made up of extreme hills and valleys without relent. Made camp the second night a little bit late as we encountered a closed/locked gate (one of many of the weekend) that saw us detour for a 2 hour night drive in order to get down off the mountain. If you've never done a night drive in the bush the scenery is spectacular. At one point we (as tail end charlie) watched from up on a bluff as the other 3 vehicles climbed a very steep hill in the distance - the headlights showing the vehicles snaking up the mountain climbing to the summit - an awesome sight. The camp ground was accessed through a (river) water crossing (quite a distinct difference to a daytime water crossing). It wasn't until waking in the morning that we realised what a pretty spot nature had provided for our emergency campsite. Next day we headed off to the second location Tom had designated for the weekend - The Jeep Track - however after a council meeting it was decided that it was too far away and that we would potter around the Jamieson area for a few hours and then call it a day. So, down into Jamieson for fuel and nibblies and then back into the hills onto a very innocent looking track WELL! we thought yesterday was tough - we found Sappers Track, the 2 Ferguson Tracks and finally the top end of Mitchell s Track that gave us such a hard time the previous day. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 10

11 We did get out (read retreated) as we did want to get home that night. Back into Jamieson for a quickie and an air up and said our goodbyes - home before dark. Now that I've hopefully painted a picture of the terrain and the weekend adventurers, I'd like to hone in on a few events and personalities of our trip. Both nights accommodation areas were fantastic - sites were pristine, clean, mowed 'read close cropped by kangaroos' and had acceptable loo facilities, alongside fresh flowing creeks. I never heard any snoring - I don't know what all the fuss was about. Weather was ideal - warm days with a hearty fire at night - lots of laughs around the campsite. Shared a lot of our cooking facilities and supplies - worked really well. As usual took too much food, and noticed that the cars never re-packed as well as they did at home before we left - funny that. I've noticed a couple of similarities between young Tom A and the President - maybe future President material?? 1/. Competition on who was in bed first - Tom A just wins out. Pres wins on who's last out the swag in the morning thou. 2/. Didn't/couldn't drink a whole lot. 3/. Loves his tucker. 4/. Never does his own dishes. 5/. Uses any excuse not to be in the back seat. 6/. Loves having things on film for future recriminations. Past president Robbo was at his usual best - keen on tackling the gnarliest hill - a fine selection of food at his disposal and every conceivable bit of kit in his wagon, I think! It was full up anyway! o Robbo had to leave us on Sat night for a previous engagement - offered to drop young David F off at home on his way as he was not too well. Thanks Robbo for a fun day. Dino was a great co-driver, always encouraging (even said the Disco was nearly as good as his Toyota) and was always in the thick of it helping out - even on the sides of the hills and in the bogs. Didn't eat much so I had to force feed him at times. Comes an equal third in staying up late with his jovial laugh heard echoing thru the hills. Brett Grant - my son in law. He's staying with Chris and I during the week until Christmas while working in Wodonga. You'll get to meet Brett at the meetings - he's a passionate 4WDriver and dirt bike rider (formally a downhill BMX rider) who knows the bush areas very well. Brett drives a stock standard (other than Cooper STT's) Pajero and helped Tom out leading on the weekend in the areas that he knew. Without going into lots of detail - Brett led us in his stock Pajero into places/tracks that simply amazed the rest of us. Only being curtailed by deep water and obstacles that were physically impossible to pass. It was a shame to witness after his water dunking the sodden contents of his rig - including a brand new camera, mobile phone, his mapset and his new chainsaw, no doubt lots of other stuff on further investigation. He's a real fun guy and easy going. He showed us all what can be achieved using skill rather than accessories and horsepower. Dale his mate also a dirt biker loves the bush and traveling with Brett - formerly a chef and now an electrician. Burkey and Kate Burke newish members from Benalla fitted in perfectly on their first weekend trip away. Both Burkey and Kate sat and passed their 4WD training recently and as a couple work very well together off road. Burkey does most of the driving while Kate is no slouch behind the wheel, does the river crossings because she does them so well. No problems with the 80 series on the weekend even thou it's a Toyota. A very unique setup inside where they both sleep and keep all the goodies - well done guys had a great time with you. Club trip coordinator and Joint trip leader Tom Barnard as usual the consummate leader brought it all together, well prepared and part of every recovery situation over the weekend. Tom s vehicle, recently upgraded and reconditioned since his flooding, was the lead vehicle thru all the more extreme situations and therefore well positioned should winching be required. Tom continues to evolve as a natural leader and continues to inspire his fellow club members with his ever increasing skill base. He had as always his ever present mate Zoe, never troubled by his antics and always there as support. Joint trip leader David Ashford fantastic backup as usual did his normal sterling job keeping everything together. Riding shotgun with Tom making sure everything was in order. Congratulations. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 11

12 The trip was classified as Hard/Medium and we were led to believe that we were in for a challenging weekend with lots of steep, rocky & muddy tracks. Very picturesque scenery & great company with lots of fun to be had, and plenty of friendly rivalries. Track Torque Results 10/10 - Sounds like a very successful 4WD trip David Jackson Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 12

13 Club Trips Track Torque Please let a committee member know if you are interested in leading a trip. There are many experienced club members who are more than willing to assist you with some planning and to assist you on the day if you would like. Track Clearing working bee for Parks Victoria October. This year we have had two requests from Parks Victoria to clear tracks in the Mt Cobbler & Mt Murray areas. We have firstly committed to supply a crew to clear the Little Cobbler, Staircase, Speculation & Cobbler Lake tracks & then if we get sufficient numbers will put another crew together to look after the Twins Jeep & Great divide Tracks. Planning at this stage to camp at the new King hut which we should have to ourselves. Trip leader/s: Craig Cheetham or Start time: 8.00 o'clock Saturday 15 October for a safety briefing then move onto the seasonally closed tracks to clear what we can. Return Home Date: Expect to clear tracks on Sunday through to just after lunch returning Wangaratta late afternoon. Chainsaw operators will require a cross-cut certificate but there is always unlimited work for those without. Bring long sleeved clothing, boots, gloves, hearing protection, safety glass's, chainsaw chaps, helmet etc. If you don't have this gear don't worry as the club has most available. Winch gear, chainsaws, crow bars & log rollers will all come in handy. bring what you have. Minimising cars is an advantage too so consider carpooling. Track standard will be easy/intermediate, need a full tank ex Wang, basic recovery gear & camping gear if staying overnight. While we occasionally do a bit of work, this trip has been a great social gathering in the past & continues to strengthen our relationship with Parks Victoria & improve the reputation of all 4x4 clubs across the state. To plan the weekend could all those available please ring Craig Cheetham to confirm your attendance as soon as possible. INVITATION TO SPONSORS We would love to see some of our sponsors on our trips. Please check out the trips on the calendar and see if any might suit you. All you need to do is to give the contact person a call. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 13

14 Snowy River Mid-Week Trip 7-11 November 2011 This route for this trip is roughly Myrtleford to Buchan, Buchan to Orbost, Orbost to McKillops Bridge, and McKillops Bridge to home. The exact route will depend on the weather and on track closures. From Orbost we will take the Yalmy Road to Raymond Creek Falls and then to the Deddick Trail, following the Deddick trail to McKillops Bridge. We will camp two nights on the way down to Orbost and two on the Eastern side of the Snowy. Sections of this track are rated difficult by 4WDV but that should not deter anyone who has passed the club s 4WDV proficiency driving course. The route will be varied according to the experience of participants. Trip Leader: Bruce Gooday ( ) Bookings: Prior bookings essential Start Date: 7 November 2011 Return: 11 November 2011 Start Time: 9.00am (negotiable) Meeting Place: Myrtleford Trip Rating: Tyres: Fuel: Medium - difficult All Terrain with good tread or better Full tank at Myrtleford refuel Buchan, Orbost Recovery gear: Snatch strap - 2 rated bow shackles recovery points front and rear Accommodation: Swag/tent NO TRAILERS Personal equipment: Be prepared for cold nights and a swim in the Snowy River. Maps: HEMA: High Country Victoria Rooftops: Various Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 14

15 Licola to Zeka Spur Trip Leader: David Blore First day: Meet in Licola (either Wednesday09-11 or Friday AM); Licola to the Pinnacles Fire Tower for lunch; Pinnacles to our campsite near Pioneer Racecourse via Billy Goat Bluff; Next day: Travel to Wonnangatta Valley - set up camp and explore area; Final day: Wonnangatta to Mansfield via Zeka Spur. Other Information:- Rating: Medium to Hard depending on weather (last time I did this route in February we had a lot of assistance required by most participants on one very slippery hill due to rain); If intending participants can only fit a two-day weekend it is possible to manage the route in this time but they are longer days naturally. Trip limit of 8 vehicles max will apply - first in best dressed. Participants will need to have successfully completed the Club's Driver Training course or an equivalent. The choices of dates are Wednesday to Friday 9-11 of November, or Friday to Sunday the of November. Please let either David or Tom know your preference asap so further arrangements can be made. Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 15

16 CLUB CALENDAR 2011 Remember club trips are not set in stone so there will be times when trip dates will be changed to suit members and the weather. Dates 2011 August Destination Type of trip Proposed leader August 6 Yach charity Bash Big Ben area Noel Ham August 9 Tarrawingee - North East Car General Meeting Club rooms August 23 TBA Committee Meeting August Border Show- Albury Show what our club has to offer David Jackson September September 2-4 Melbourne National 4x4 show Melbourne Showgrounds FYI September KTM Cancer Care Strathbogie Ranges Medium Noel and Irene Ham September 13 Tarrawingee - North East Car General Meeting Club rooms September Strathbogie Broadside Medium/Hard Tom Barnard September 27 TBA Committee Meeting October October 5 Interchange day- Special children 4wd adventure Easy Noel and Irene Ham October 2 or 8 Observation Day Killawarra Easy. Family fun Day Social Coordinator forest. October 11 Tarrawingee - North East Car General Meeting Club rooms October Cut and Roll Track Clearing Easy driving but could be Craig Cheetham hard work October 18 Rotary rampage Beechworth David Blore October Observation Day Killawarra Forest Dean and Jackie October 22 Typo Station Open Day Information only October 22 Mt Buller-Missing Person Tom October 25 TBA Committee Meeting November November 6 Day at the Gardens Benalla November 7-11 Snowy River Medium Bruce Gooday November 8 Tarrawingee - North East Car Club rooms General Meeting Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 16

17 CLUB CALENDAR 2011 November 9 11 or depending on demand Licola to Zeka Spur via Wonangatta Medium November 22 TBA Committee Meeting December David Blore December 3-4 Santa Surprise Easy Dean and Jacky Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 17

18 TRACk Torque Track Torque October 2011 Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club A D PO Box 494 Wangaratta Responsible Four Wheel Driving And Family Touring Wangaratta Four Wheel Drive Club Inc October 2011 Page 18