subaru 4wd club of vic magazine - november 2011
DESCRIPTION
The monthly magazine of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc, online version, November 2011 editionTRANSCRIPT
(ISSUE 376)
Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc.
Reg. No. A – 0006149J FWDV Member
www.subaru4wdvic.com.au GPO BOX 2456
Melbourne VIC. 3001
November 2011
Page: 2
VOLKSVOLKS--BARUBARU
SUBARU and Volkswagen Specialist
Parts and Service Centre
We will smooth out your motoring costs with extremely
competitive prices, offering trade discounts to all Subaru
4WD Club of Victoria members on all parts and repairs.
John Bailey 1362 Heatherton Rd
Dandenong North 3175 Phone: (03) 9793 5655
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INTRODUCTION TO THE SUBARU 4WD CLUB
OF VICTORIA:
GENERAL MEETINGS South Camberwell Tennis Club Last Tuesday of each
322 Burke Road month at 8:00pm sharp Glen Iris (Melways 59 H6) (except December)
COMMITTEE Meetings 1st
Tuesday each month: 7:30pm
Damian Stock (President)
Peter Bellis (Secretary)
Bob Marshall (Treasurer)
Jessica Walsh (Trip & Social)
Martin Foot (Editor)
Andrew Jantke (Membership)
vacant (Resources)
[email protected] (diverted to president)
Vacant (Venue)
[email protected] (diverted to president)
Phil Milkins (Ordinary Member)
Dale Rebgetz (Ordinary Member)
The Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc. was originally formed over 30 years ago by an enthusiastic group of Subaru owners. Today the club has expanded to include all Subaru 4WD and AWD vehicles, as well as all other makes of AWD, light 4WD and crossover/soft-roader type vehicles. The club aims to participate in exploration of the Australian countryside without damage to the environment, vehicle or individual. Visitors are most welcome to attend the club‟s General Meetings and contact committee members regarding participation in club activities.
The club relies on membership fees to offset its running costs, including insurance. Membership fees are payable each financial year, due after the yearly AGM. Fees for the 2010/2011 year are currently:
Interstate: $90 (Seniors card - $85) ● Single: $100 (Seniors card - $90) Joint/family: $105 - (Seniors card - $90)
(All fees includes affiliation and Insurance: $40) A trip fee of $10 per adult non-member applies (for insurance purposes)
Please contact the membership officer for further information regarding membership, including pro-rata and monthly rates.
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT
Welcome to the November club magazine and my final report for 2011,. While it might be my last report before the Christmas break, it certainly does not signal the end of club activities, not just yet anyway.
In the next couple of weeks alone we have another club meeting and annual photo competition, the club Christmas party and finally the Oxfam Christmas tree distribution. Plenty of variety for everyone.
After a very busy October, thanks to the club‟s 35th birthday
event, it was with mixed feelings that I had to miss the Lake Eyre and border trips. While a long planned MRI, and some business, kept me away from Lake Eyre I had hoped to still make it onto the border trip. Other things then conspired to keep me away from even this trip however, from what I have heard, I wasn‟t missed anyway. With a very full convoy, augmented by a couple of drop-ins from the Lake Eyre trip, I am sure that Peter and Jean had their hands full anyway.
This week the association has its AGM and I will be hoping to get there as it should be a very informative event. Unfortunately I have another commitment earlier on the same night so will be doing my best to get from one to another without missing too much.
Due to last year‟s change of state government the association has been playing catch up for most of the year, from a funding perspective, with the new government re-evaluating the budgets for both DSE and Parks Victoria. While the message from the recent president‟s meeting was quite positive it will be interesting to see how things have progressed since then. I will provide an update at the November club meeting.
I heard this week about the club‟s most recent trip, to Buchan, ably led by Adam and Damien. While I am sure that the trip report will highlight how much fun it was, it is always interesting to hear about a trip to Buchan where one little drive takes six hours, instead of two or three. Maybe Adam will tell us all about it at the November meeting as he makes sure that plenty of fines are collected. Don‟t forget to come along to this meeting together with your photos for the photo competition. You might just win a prize.
In the last couple of weeks I have met with both Subaru Docklands and the association. The Docklands meeting was aimed at improving our relationship by identifying ways that we can work closer together for our joint benefit. While nothing has come out of this meeting yet I will let you know as soon as we have achieved something. The meeting with the association was to work
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PRESIDENT’S REPORT
on the format of the new co-branded membership card. Expect to see these cards shortly although we will only be issuing one per membership due to the costs of manufacture.
For those of you at the October meeting you would have heard from Andrew of the All Wheel Drive club. We hope to run some joint activities with them and Andrew‟s visit was a precursor to this happening. Andrew had previously owned a Forester so knows a lot about the capabilities of the Subaru. He is now keen to see if his latest acquisition, a VW Touareg, can do as well and handle some of the trips we run. It should be interesting. If you see Andrew, or any of his fellow club members, on a trip in the future please make them very welcome.
If you have been reading Trackwatch recently you would have read about the dangers of using recovery equipment incorrectly where multiple deaths have resulted. On the grapevine I heard of a recent club trip where a snatch strap was used incorrectly, by hanging it over a tow ball, instead of with a shackle or directly connected to the tow neck. This could easily have resulted in the strap coming off the tow ball and either hitting someone close-by or damaging the other vehicle. This highlights the need for proper recovery procedures to not only be followed but also taught to all club members.
If you are not sure about how to use recovery equipment please ask someone. Equally, if you see something being done incorrectly on a club trip please step in and provide guidance on the correct method. Everyone will be the wiser and the recovery will be much safer. A good idea, when recovery is being conducted, is for everyone on the trip to pay attention to the activity, to not only learn but to also be aware of what is happening.
By the time you read this report the club‟s Christmas Party may have come and gone. Kurth Kiln is an interesting destination for those who have not been there previously, and even for those who have, while the navigation run should be a bit of fun. I just hope that the weather is fine and that Santa finds his way there for the young, and not so young, kids. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Anyway that‟s enough from me for this month. Take care of yourself out there, on the road or in the bush, and if I don‟t see you at the coming events please have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year.
Damian
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EDITOR’S REPORT
VENUE REPORT
So here we have the final magazine for 2011. There has been so much going on lately that it‟s been hard to keep up with it all. This edition has the trip reports for Lake Eyre and the Border Track, but you will have to wait until the January edition to read about Buchan and the upcoming Christmas Party and Rally.
===
The option exists for members to receive their magazine electronically via a web link. They can also choose to discontinue hard copy if they wish. At present, I‟m sending the link to all members who have registered their email addresses with Andrew. It you don‟t want the email or the hard copy, let me know.
Any member of the public can view an abridged version of the current magazine (without personal contact information) via the club‟s website, www.subaru4wdvic.com.au
===
The magazine deadline for next edition is JANUARY 17th, 2012. Send all copy to [email protected] . However, be aware that I will be OS from 17 December to 14 January .
Martin
NOVEMBER GENERAL MEETING
Date: Tuesday 29 October at 8pm.
Venue: Camberwell South Tennis Club
Presentation: The highlight this month is the Photo Competition judging.
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VENUE REPORT
PHOTO COMPETITION
JUDGING AT NOVEMBER MEETING As in 2010, there will be a photo competition as part of the last meeting for the year in November. All photographs submitted must have been taken within the last two years (2010 or 2011) at club events. Any photographs that have won a prize previously are not eligible. There will be a limit of one photo per person per category. (Family Mem-bership allows for each member to submit their favourites as well but they must have taken the photograph personally). You will need to mark the back of the photos with your name or initials and the category they are to be entered in. If you wish to display your photos electronically, you must bring the means of doing so to the meeting. Remember those attending the meeting will be voting on who is the winner in each of the categories. SO IF YOU WANT YOUR VOTE TO BE COUNTED, BE THERE! The categories are:
Best portrait photo, ie photo of a person
Best Subaru action shot
Best recovery shot
Best group photo
Funniest photo Photos can be submitted any time from now until the November meeting, this will allow you time to search for recent events that tell a tale. The judging will be done by the members present on the night of the meet-ing, so it should be a fun night and I encourage members to come along and look and judge photos from the recent past. Bev Davison
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT
CHRISTMAS RALLY AND PARTY
Sunday 27 November
Trip Leader: Martin Foot, email: [email protected]
This year‟s Christmas Party will include a short navigation run from Cockatoo finishing at the lunch spot at Kurth Kiln north of Gembrook. Cars will be
dispatched at short intervals from the starting point at the Jantke home in Cockatoo. If you‟re not on the rally, go directly to Kurth Kiln, aiming to arrive from 12 noon.
RALLY:
Trip Standard: Medium (4WD route) or Social (2WD) route - your choice. The 4WD route contains an uphill section of muddy ruts which will require AT tyres or better and some underbody protection. The alternative route is on well maintained roads, where 2WD vehic les with standard clearance and highway tyres are fine.
Meeting point: Jantke home, 8 Francis Street, Cockatoo, Melways Map 311 K1
Time: 10:30am to depart at intervals from 11am
Trip Intention: Please let Martin know that you‟re coming on the rally, EVEN THOUGH you may have put your name on the trip intention sheet for the Christmas Party. He needs to know how many cars to expect on the run.
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT
PARTY:
Venue: Kurth Kiln Park, cnr Beenak and Soldiers Road, Gembrook North. The site is not shown on any Melways Map other than the key map on page 14. If you‟re coming from the south, Map 299 shows part of the route, ie, Launching Place Road north of Gembrook township. You can either drive about 11 Km along Launching Place Road and turn west along Soldiers Road past Gilwell Park; or you can turn left into Beenak Road from Launching Place Road about 5Km north of Gembrook (see Map 299 A5) and continue for another 5 or 6 Km on dirt.
Time: from 12 noon
Catering: Meat and soft drinks will be provided. Please bring a salad or dessert to share, plus your own cutlery, crockery, BYO drinks and glasses and chairs. For catering purposes, please CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE WITH NUMBERS (including NUMBERS OF KIDS) by Thursday 25 November to Martin, if you didn‟t provide this fully in the trip intention sheet at the October general meeting.
Santa Claus: An invitation has been issued for his attendance. Parents of children will need to bring appropriate gifts for Santa (or his deputy) to present.
The park: The central feature of the park is the kiln, constructed by Dr Kurth during WW2 as a prototype to produce commercial quantities of charcoal for automobile gas producers at a time when petrol was in short supply.
The Friends of Kurth Kiln have kindly offered to open the museum from 2.30 - 4pm for the interest of members and the public.
OXFAM CHRISTMAS TREE DELIVERIES
Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December
This is a social run to deliver Christmas trees on behalf of Oxfam. Saturday covers the south and eastern suburbs, Sunday the north and western.
Please consider taking part in the club‟s one community service activity for the year.
Contact: Peter Bellis, [email protected]
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT
CHRISTMAS TRIP
Wonangatta through trip, Victorian High Country
Wednesday 28 – Saturday 31 December
Trip Leader: David Wilson, email: [email protected]
The Wonangatta Valley is one the iconic “must do” 4wd trips. The valley is tranquil with wide open camping areas and a cool stream running along the base of the hills. Patient observers can be rewarded with the sight of a platypus at dusk. The sides of the valley present plenty of challenges for your vehicle, as can the drive in to the valley itself. Any vehicles on this trip need to be well prepared for some rugged driving.
MITSUBISHI MUSTER
Tolmie (out of Mansfield) Friday 6 – Monday 9 April 2012 Pajero 4WD Club Victoria
The club has received an invitation to the Mitsubishi Muster to be held over Easter in and around Tolmie in the state's north east. The program is still being determined, but if 2011 was anything to go on, it will be a great event. Further details will be listed as they are received.
NEXT YEAR
Grampians
Narbethong
Wombat State Forest
Mungo World Heritage Area (Easter?)
Possible snow trip with the Queensland Subaru Club
Goldfields Heritage area
YOUR IDEAS WELCOME HERE!
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORT
JESSICA’S JOTTINGS
The issue of safe vehicle recovery has been raised again in the October issue of TrackWatch. It is a timely reminder that recovering a vehicle (by what-ever means) is potentially the most dangerous activity we could undertake whilst four wheel driving. It is important to have the right recovery gear, and to be knowledgeable in its use. For example, only use rated equipment, know where the recovery points are on your vehicle and never,
ever use a tow ball as an anchor point for a snatch strap or winch.
Hopefully in the new year I will be able to formalise my accreditation to instruct with 4WDVic. One of my priorities will be vehicle recovery training within the club. Until then, if you are not sure of any recovery procedure ask someone who is. Better to be safe than sorry.
Happy travels,
Jessica Walsh
Trip & Social Coordinator
FOUR WHEEL DRIVE VICTORIA TRAINING CALENDAR
December 2011
Monday 5th Chainsaw Course (CS111210) Theory - Nth Balwyn
Saturday 10th Chainsaw Course (CS111210) Practical - Tallarook
11th Chainsaw Course (CS111210) Practical – Tallarook
FWDV can be contacted on (03) 9857 5209 or e-mail: [email protected]
Contact S4WDCV Secretary Peter Bellis, email: [email protected]
regarding attendance at FWDV courses as a club discount may apply.
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TRIP REPORTS
LAKE EYRE TRIP
Saturday 22 to Sunday 30 October 2011
by Jessica Walsh
Saturday 22/10/2011
The starting place for the Lake Eyre trip was set to be Mildura. This would give everyone the opportunity to leave Melbourne at their leisure, depending on how long it would take them to travel.
We all got here safe and sound, minus a uhf cb antenna from Jessica's car. She managed to get a replacement antenna and mounting plate in Mildura so was on air for the official start of the trip.
Dale and Jan spent Friday night in Charlton then got to Mildura at about 1pm, and then spent the next couple of hours have a look around.
Michael and Graeme got in about half past four.
We set our tents up in the caravan park and then walked to the Gateway Tavern for dinner. A slight detour on the way home to the supermarket, and everyone was stocked up and ready to start the trip proper the next day.
Sunday 23/10/2011
After a leisurely start to the day we all set off for... Bunnings. Dale got some timber for the base of his roof top ladder, Jan got a small cooler bag, and Bev got us all a little surprise of some solar powered lights for each campsite.
Did I mention that everyone has to bring a surprise on this trip; that got some head scratching going, so we shall see what eventuates from that requirement.
We stopped at the junction of the Murray and the Darling rivers where we took photos and had coffees.
As we continued our travels, Michael and Graeme decided to christen the
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TRIP REPORTS
cars with appropriate names: Red Leader, Custard Tart and Jan Doughnut. After a little discussion (that did not include Michael and Graeme) the cars were renamed Cherry Ripe (Jessica and Bev), Jan Doughnut (Jan and Dale) and Snot Block (Michael and Graeme).
We arrived at Broken Hill at about 1pm where we found the caravan park, pitched tents and had some lunch from the various car fridges.
Off to the tourist bureau for some advice then we all headed to the Silver City Mint for a bit of a look at the local wares. Graeme and Michael went looking for an old fashioned cafe whilst the rest of us headed to Pro Hart's gallery. Ir was interesting to see some of the different styles of his art on display and we watched a documentary on his life.
Back to the camp ground where we cooked tea and then most of headed off to see the living desert display at sunset. On their return, Jan and Dale presented us with their surprises - little torches in the shape of cows, and they “mooed” when you pressed the torch button!
Monday 24/10/2011
This morning we took a quick trip to the post office for Jan to send some souvenirs home and then it was off to Peterborough for lunch. The little toy cow torches got the occasional airing over the radio. We then pressed on to Hawker with plenty of time to set up camp and after dinner were presented with Graeme and Michael's surprise which were some Bob the Builder spherical jig saws.
Michael gave the game away a little when he and Graeme drove off to capture some sunset photos by saying 'goood luuuck'. We were soon to discover that one of the pieces had been swapped in each jigsaw. So that turned the jigsaw making into a little team building exercise. Michael and Graeme arrived back to find the jigsaws completed and us listening to the Muppets on the car stereo. They would discover the next day that the Bob the Builder theme song had been downloaded and would be played at every opportunity.
Tuesday 25/10/2011
The day got off to a dreary start with overcast weather and the threat of rain. Michael and Graeme set out early for some photographs from a nearby lookout before returning by 9am when we all headed off for Leigh Creek. Soon after the convoy was underway, Bob the Builder filling the uhf airwaves. I think this trip now has a theme song.
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TRIP REPORTS
At Leigh Creek we filled up with fuel and last minute supplies and coffees and then we travelled the short distance to Lyndhurst to enjoy lunch and to wave at the other travelers passing by.
Now it was time to drop the tyre pressures and the start of the dirt. Surprisingly there were a couple of stretches of bitumen on the way to Maree - our tax dollars at work. Hopefully this won't extend to the Oodnadatta Track proper anytime soon.
We stopped at two planes mounted nose first into the desert where Michael discovered he had a flat tyre. It was soon swapped over and the hole was located in the tread, so hopefully a plug will fix it. Next stop was the lookout and access point to Lake Eyre South. We all walked down to the lake, as the road from William Creek to Lake Eyre North was rumoured to be in very poor condition, so this may be only chance to access the lakes. Dale took his GPS which showed we were indeed 12 metres below sea level.
The Curdimurka ruins were the next stop soon after the lake for a photo opportunity. This is one of the last remaining sidings on the old Ghan railway line. The next stop was Blanche Cup and the Bubbler where the artesian waters come to the surface. These artesian soaks provided the old Ghan steam train with its water supply, dictating the route. Many of the wells were drilled and left uncapped for water for stock, whilst some have now been sealed again to limit the flow.
Our overnight stop was at Coward Springs where we found a spot that all of us could fit ... I think the next night will be away from the snorers! Dinner saw all the gas stoves out as there were no more camp kitchens for us to cook on. Salmon and prawns with cous cous for Bev, casserole with potatoes for Jan and Dale, eggs and salad for Michael and Graeme and a lightly 'dusted' schnitzel and veg for Jessica.
A glass of red and some after dinner conversation saw us in bed after 9pm, a late one for us so far on this trip.
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TRIP REPORTS
Wednesday 26/10/2011
An early start with the galahs waking us up. Michael plugged his tyre, but it had trouble holding pressure. It will stay as the emergency spare until we get to William Creek later in the day to be repaired. We had a pleasant walk around the campsite and a look at the museum which gave a bit more history of the area.
We were soon on the road only for Michael to discover he had another flat. This time we left the tyre and wheel on the car and plugged it en-situ. This plug held so were soon away again.
Beresford provided a good spot to take some more photos. This is the site of a large dam that was full with lots of bird life. Beresford is another railway siding to supply the old Ghan with water.
At last we arrived at William Creek! Unfortunately the reports we had been getting from fellow travels of the condition of the road to the lake were confirmed when we got there. We dropped into the information centre and booked ourselves on the one and a half hour flight over the lake and across to Cooper Creek. That gave us just enough time to have some lunch before the 4.30 flight.
Michael dropped off two tyres to the garage/hotel and was soon told that the plugs he had put into them was as good a job as the repairman would have done, so that was reassuring – and a cost saving. This just shows the benefit of being prepared with the right repair equipment. Tents pitched - it was off to the plane.
The flight went for one and a half hours and covered Lake Eyre North all the way across to Cooper Creek inlet. Michael, the pilot, was very informative and gave us quite a bit of information about Anna Creek Station (28,000 square kms). The largest cattle station in the world. At one point the Kidman family owned three percent of the land mass of Australia in pastoral leases.
We landed with a slightly green Dale and headed off for tea at the William Creek Hotel. We ran into some other travelers that we had met earlier in our travels and it was good to compare note on the roads we had been on.
CLUB CALENDAR
Date Event Location Standard Contact for further info. Cost
2011
NOV
Sun 27 Christmas Party Kurth Kiln Regional Park
Social/ Martin Foot
Tues 29 General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
DEC
Sat 3, Sun 4 Oxfam Christmas Tree deliveries Blackburn South to allocated areas
Peter Bellis
Tues 6 Committee Meeting t.b.a. Peter Bellis
Mon 26 CHRISTMAS DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Tues 27 BOXING DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Wed 28 Dec – Sat 31
Christmas Trip Wonnangatta David Wilson
Mon 2 NEW YEAR‟S DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
JAN +
Thurs 26 Jan AUSTRALIA DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY t.b.a. Jessica Walsh
Tues 31 Jan General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
Sat 25 & Sun 26 Feb
Pajero Challenge t.b.a. Peter Bellis
Tues 28 Feb General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
Trip Standard Sign Vehicle Suitability
Easy All wheel drive and high range 4WD. Can be low clearance with single range and road tyres. Medium Suitable for medium clearance vehicles with dual range and all terrain or road tyres.
Difficult Suitable for medium to high clearance vehicles with dual range and all terrain tyres. Very Difficult Suitable for high clearance vehicles with dual range and tyres suitable for the terrain (eg. mud terrain tyres).
CLUB CALENDAR
Date Event Location Standard Contact for further info. Cost
2011
NOV
Sun 27 Christmas Party Kurth Kiln Regional Park
Social/ Martin Foot
Tues 29 General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
DEC
Sat 3, Sun 4 Oxfam Christmas Tree deliveries Blackburn South to allocated areas
Peter Bellis
Tues 6 Committee Meeting t.b.a. Peter Bellis
Mon 26 CHRISTMAS DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Tues 27 BOXING DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Wed 28 Dec – Sat 31
Christmas Trip Wonnangatta David Wilson
Mon 2 NEW YEAR‟S DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY
JAN +
Thurs 26 Jan AUSTRALIA DAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY t.b.a. Jessica Walsh
Tues 31 Jan General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
Sat 25 & Sun 26 Feb
Pajero Challenge t.b.a. Peter Bellis
Tues 28 Feb General Meeting CSTC Damian Stock
Trip Standard Sign Vehicle Suitability
Easy All wheel drive and high range 4WD. Can be low clearance with single range and road tyres. Medium Suitable for medium clearance vehicles with dual range and all terrain or road tyres.
Difficult Suitable for medium to high clearance vehicles with dual range and all terrain tyres. Very Difficult Suitable for high clearance vehicles with dual range and tyres suitable for the terrain (eg. mud terrain tyres).
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TRIP REPORTS
The Variety Club of South Australia were in town and decided to dominate the camp ground. They were loud well into the night. When they were asked to quieten down they met the request with ridicule and insults. This is unfortunate for an organisation that purports to care for the community.
Thursday 27/10/2011
The Variety Club slept in after their late night, and I expect their morning flight was not as good as it could have been due to the late start. How do you spell karma?
Our drive today was to Oodnadatta, we stopped at the Algebrackina bridge, which is the longest rail bridge in South Australia. All our vehicles managed to get onto the rail line on the other side and more photos occurred.
Lunch was at Oodnadatta's pink roadhouse. A leisurely afternoon drive and we were back on the blacktop at Coober Pedy. Our resting place was an underground campground and motel and dinner at a local pizza restaurant. A real bed for a change - is that being too soft on a camping trip? This was our last night together as a group as Michael and Graeme were heading off in the morning to head straight for Melbourne. We were planning to take our time and to meet up with Peter Bellis at the Pink Lakes camp ground for part of the Border Track trip.
Jessica finally produced her surprise, which was mini pavlovas with fresh cream and berries.
Friday 27/10/2011
Up and off at about 8.30 this morning as there was a long day of driving ahead of us.
Incidentally, Michael and Graeme got away about 6am, and got to Bordertown by 8.30 that evening. They were in Melbourne the following afternoon, safe and sound.
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TRIP REPORTS
We drove until the roadhouse in Glendambo where we had morning tea, and then pressed on until Woomera for lunch. It seems that the conversation had regressed as far as a series of 'dad' jokes which had everyone groaning.
We kept driving 'till Port Augusta for afternoon tea, and then got to Burra by about six pm. We were quick to set up camp with the threat of rain and then dinner and off to bed by nine. Tomorrow we have to head to Pink Lakes campground so we can meet up with the Border Track trip. About 450 km which should be a little easier than today. So far we have travelled over 3,000km which is a fair haul in seven days.
Saturday 28/10/2011
Last night the rain fell softly on the tents but everyone stayed warm and dry.
We had a nice walk around Burra whilst waiting for the coffee shop to open. Burra was the largest copper mine in the world for a time. We started on our last day of driving on the Lake Eyre trip, and the dad jokes flowed thick and fast.
We drove until Berri for lunch, and then on to Pinnaroo for fuel and our last leg to the Pink Lakes. We arrived at about half past three, and the Border Track trip got there at about five thirty. I handed over to Peter Bellis, and that was the official end of the Lake Eyre trip.
Thank you to Bev, Jan, Dale, Michael and Graeme for helping to make this trip so enjoyable.
Participants:
Jessica Walsh and Bev Davison 2010 Diesel Outback
Dale and Jan Rebgetz 2005 MY06 Forester
Graeme and Michael Dickman 1983 Sportswagon
Some statistics for the diesel Outback:
Total distance travelled was 4200km (from Melbourne) and used 365 litres of fuel for an average consumption of 8.71 litres per 100km.
Incidentally the most expensive fuel was at William Creek ($2.20/litre) and the cheapest was in Sunbury ($1.42/litre). The average fuel cost was $1.57/litre.
Jessica Walsh
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TRIP REPORTS
BORDER TRACK TRIP REPORT
Saturday 29 October - Tuesday 1 November
by Dot Greiveson
Was this going to be a sand trip or a mud trip? This was the question we asked as we headed through severed storms to make our way to Rainbow on the Friday afternoon and evening. Rain lashed travellers and those trying to set up camp.
Saturday 29 October
The skies had cleared and the morning saw people from all directions meet to be briefed by Peter on the trip ahead. There were 10 cars – a very good turn up. After fuelling up, we headed north around Lake Albacutya and into Wyperfeld National Park. It was true Mallee country – scrubby, sandy and looking good from the recent rain. The track alternated between mud and sand. Soon there were bog holes to play in. Dot learned that it helps to take off the handbrake before climbing a sand dune. The cars quickly lost their shine as we made our way to Wonga Camp Ground for lunch. Working our way through soft but not difficult sand, we wended our way north via North South track. By mid afternoon, we arrived at Underbool. A stop for ice-creams and then off to the Pink Lakes on the edge of the Murray Sunset National Park, where Jessica, Dale, Jan & Bev were waiting for us, having just completed their Lake Eyre trip.
The camp ground was busy and the group split up to find suitable sites. As the lovely salt lakes glistened in the afternoon sun, it was easy to see why it was such a popular place.
Sunday 30 October
The morning light highlighted the pink algae in the water and the lake, framed by the low tinged salt bush, was a very pretty scene. This was a place worth remembering.
Sunday saw us heading towards
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TRIP REPORTS
Mount Crozier. Some deep mud holes provided the group with some playtime. The views from the top of Mount Crozier, a huge sand dune, were spectacular.
Looking over the large low-lying expanses of shrub covered plains, it was easy to imagine the inland sea of an earlier epoch. Then down Grub Track, past the old cattle yards on to the lunch spot.
By the time we reached Pinnaroo we were a dirty and tired convoy of vehicles. A number of the company went off to enjoy a counter meal, while others stoked up the camp stove again.
Monday 31 October
The morning saw us put the sand flags up in preparation for the hard-core sand driving ahead. After a small diversion we were onto the one-way section of the track. Arriving at the entrance to the Ngarket Conservation Park, we let down ours tires again. The mandated maximum pressure for the Border Track was 18 psi. It was the last day for entry before the track was closed for the summer fire season. The fun was about to begin.
The track is narrow with the border fence running close to it. Initially the dunes were rather tame. Older more challenging routes had been closed. Surely this wasn‟t all there was? But the day did not disappoint. Subarus and
larger vehicles were going to be challenged. Each large sand dune provided three options: hard, medium, and „the chicken track‟. Sometimes the easy route was deemed the best alternative for some. The view from the dunes was wonderful as there was nothing to impede the expansive vista of dense scrub.
Matt, our newest member, impressed early
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TRIP REPORTS
as he drove steadily over a very challenging dune where other more experienced members faltered. For Peter Mynard, this was his first d u n e d r i v i n g d e s p i t e h i s considerable experience. At times he wished his „80s vehicle had a bit more grunt as more recent Foresters powered on. Even Jamie in the Landcruiser was left wondering a few times! And Les was left laughing!
There were a number of times when the group came to a halt. The track was quite busy, so we often waited for bigger vehicles to move through (churning up the track as they went). During this time the photographers took the
opportunity to take photos. The heath, tea trees and daisies were all in bloom.
As the shadows lengthened, the group decided to camp at Doggers Hut Camp. Although damaged by recent fire, it provided us with a private camp-site and lots of firewood. Marshmallows and damper were consumed around the fire under clear skies and lots of stars.
Tuesday 1 November
The next morning saw us continue down the track past Red Bluff. It was a
good drive with more dunes and some rather deep ruts. At around 2pm we arrived at Broken Bucket Tank for lunch. It had been a long yet satisfying morning. Peter was pleased that he had chosen to explore this additional part of the track as all enjoyed the challenges it provided.
Time was moving on and most had work the next day. A few cars some went round lake Hindmarsh with Peter & Jean while the rest of us reluctantly
Page: 23
TRIP REPORTS
headed for the main road and home.
Many thanks to Peter & Jean for navigating us through this beautiful part of the country. It was a challenging, memorable trip and a great way to spend a Cup Weekend.
Participants:
Peter and Jean Bellis Forester
Matt and Tim McConaghy Forester
Adam Howley and Damian Hough Landrover Discovery
Dale and Jan Rebgetz Forester
Andrew and Lisa Jantke Holden Rodeo
Jamie and Les Scott Toyota Landcruiser
Michael Hartshorne Forester
Peter and Katie Mynard L-Series
Martin Foot and Dot Greiveson Forester
Rick, Jackie and Josh Koster L-Series turbo
David, Anthony and Justin Wilson Outback
Jessica Walsh and Bev Davison Outback
Jessica, Bev, Dale and Jan joined the trip at the Pink Lakes near Underbool on the Saturday evening.
Page: 24
FOR SALE
The club makes this space available free of charge to members wishing to buy or sell items.
Please note that the Motor Car Trader Regulations 1998-22(4) require that vehicles for sale
advertisements must contain: (a) the cash price of the vehicle and; (b) the registration number
if registered or the engine/chassis numbers if unregistered. Contact the club editor to advertise
in this space.
Forester Aluminium Bash Plates: made from 6.0mm construction grade aluminium: $300 for club members, $330 for non-members. Fitting can be arranged. Contact: David Wilson, mob: 0429 942 724.
Bug blind for a Subaru Forester with an unmodified front end. This item was mentioned during general Business at the October general meeting. Further details are not to hand, but contact Martin on 0434 770 497 or [email protected] if interested and I will follow it up.
RESOURCES
Club Clothing prices:
Polo - $30 Double-sided vest - $60 Long sleeved fleece top - $65 Storm jacket - $110 Cap $25
Adam is no longer looking after Resources, so if you wish to order any clothing, contact Damian in the f irst instance, email: [email protected]
Page: 25
CLUB MEETING MINUTES
The General Meeting of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc was held on Tuesday, 25
th October 2011 at the South Camberwell Tennis Club starting at
8:23pm.
1. Present Peter Bellis, Lisa Jantke, Andrew Jantke, Damian Stock, Ruth Marshall, Bob Marshall, Glenys Howell, Brian Howell, Phil Milkins, Elaine Milkins, Paul Saleeba, Katie Mynard, Peter Mynard, Les Scott, Jamie Scott, Adam Howley, Damian Hough, David Wilson, Mick Noonan, Matt McConaghy.
2. Apologies Jan Aylott, Jean Bellis, Doug Coghlan, Kate Coghlan, Elaine Hyde.
3. Visitors: Andrew Cruddas (AWD Club of Victoria).
4. Welcome: A welcome was extended to all members and visitors. 5. Minutes of the Previous General Meeting
5.1 The minutes of the September 2011 General Meeting were accepted without amendment after being moved by Adam Howley and seconded by Phil Milkins.
5.2 There was no business arising from the minutes. 6. Correspondence
6.1 In
Magazines from
Pajero 4WD Club – Victoria
Subaru 4WD Club of South Australia
Subaru 4WD Club of Queensland
Subaru and Recreational 4WD Club - NSW
Advertising Material
Royal Flying Doctor Service
Mt Buller Chalet Hotel
4WD Victoria
Membership cards.
Camp Host over Melbourne Cup weekend. 6.2 Out
4WD Victoria – membership cards.
Oz LED – guest speaker for a meeting next year.
Page: 26
CLUB MEETING MINUTES
7. Reports
7.1 Resources
Will soon have the club resources.
Have two 80-channel UHF radios added to the resources this month.
7.2 Editor
Apologies for the hitch with the internet address for the October magazine.
7.3 Trip and Social: Details elsewhere in the magazine.
7.4 Venue: Details elsewhere in the magazine.
7.5 Membership: 1 new member and 1 renewal.
7.6 Treasurer
Bank account balance is $3,052.79.
Have some outstanding payments regarding the 35th birthday
bash.
7.7 Secretary
Next committee meeting is at the Bellis residence in Boronia on Tuesday 8
th November 2011.
7.8 President
As per magazine.
Many thanks to members who have helped with recent club events – Leisurefest and the 35
th birthday bash.
Should have our new membership cards next week.
Condolences to Jean Bellis for the recent death of her father.
A motion of thanks was passed to Damian and Angela for hosting the 35
th birthday bash.
8. General Business
8.1 Club‟s Presence on Facebook
Need to ensure that any photographs uploaded onto the Facebook have registration numbers obscured. If not possible, then need to get permission from the vehicle‟s
Page: 27
CLUB MEETING MINUTES
owner for publication of photographs/videos that have the vehicle in it. This would come under any privacy guidelines.
8.2 For Sale – bug blind for a Subaru Forester with an unmodified front end.
8.3 Yamaha inverter generator – they need to be checked due to an electrical fault in its construction.
9. Fines and Fun
9.1 Nametags: None.
9.2 Last to Meeting: David Wilson
9.3 Trips
9.3.1 Leisurefest
Martin Foot – for leaving behind his thermos and milk on the stand on Friday. The milk was a bit off the next day.
9.3.2 Club 35th Birthday Bash
Peter M – for needing a push to get the work vehicle and trailer out of the work yard after being loaded up with pallets.
Adam – for getting his vehicle bogged and covered in mud.
Jamie – for following Adam through the same bog hole.
Damian – for leaving the flue up on the pot belly stove.
Elaine – for making “inappropriate” comments at the dancers from the “back stalls”.
Jamie – for winning a pin cushion in the competition.
Jamie – for swapping the pin cushion for some chocolate.
Adam – for driving 35 metres from the campsite to the shed just because it was raining.
Total fines collected - $?.
10. Meeting closed at 9:45pm and was followed by supper.
11. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 29th November 2011
commencing at 8pm.
Page: 28
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Abridged Minutes of the meeting of the committee of the Subaru 4WD Club of Victoria Inc held on Tuesday 8
th November 2011 at the home of Peter Bellis
starting at 7:37pm.
1. Present
Peter Bellis, Andrew Jantke, Phil Milkins, Dale Rebgetz, Damian Stock, Bob Marshall, Martin Foot.
2. Apologies: Jessica Walsh (on holidays again), Adam Howley.
3. Quorum: A quorum was achieved with 7 committee members present.
4. Minutes of the Previous Meeting
4.1 Minutes of the October 2011 were accepted without amendment.
4.2 Business Arising from the Minutes and Outstanding Actions
4.2.1 Club Website
Waiting on feedback from Dale Rebgetz.
4.2.2 MS-Publisher for Editor
Martin is yet to purchase an up-to-date copy.
4.2.3 Club Magazine Distribution List
Will accept any additions.
4.2.4 Listing of Resources
Adam is waiting on an updated list of club resources from David Wilson.
4.2.5 Use of Social Media for Promoting the Club
Still in progress
4.2.6 Subaru Docklands
Had the meeting with them last night.
Martketing / business plan update – Damian received template from Martin.
4.2.7 Club Brochure
Not yet updated – Adam to liaise with Damian.
Page: 29
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
5. Correspondence
5.1 In
4WD Victoria
Delegates‟ brief sheet.
Notice of AGM (in 2 weeks‟ time).
Annie Thompson – clean-up of the Mornington Peninsula
5.2 Out
4WD Victoria – membership cards
6. Reports
6.1 Resources
Adam has submitted his resignation from the committee.
No report was submitted.
6.2 Trip and Social
Details elsewhere in the magazine.
No report was submitted
A new gate has been put on the entrance to the Buchan property. Need to refund Wayne Mraz the cost of the gate - $118.
6.3 Venue
Details elsewhere in the magazine.
Peter B has not yet contacted Hema.
Damian has not yet heard back from Greg Smith.
Potential guest speaker regarding storage systems for vehicles
6.4 Membership
Have 25 paid-up members, with 3 outstanding and will renew, and 4 yet to renew.
Daryl and Rose Lynch have not renewed due to financial circumstances.
Page: 30
COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
Membership card
Damian had a electronic copy of the proposed card to display.
The card will cost $1.80 each.
Will have a card for each membership. As such, will need to indicate the type of membership (single, family/joint) on the card.
6.5 Editor
As per the magazine.
This month‟s editorial deadline is 15th November 2011.
Will put a membership profile in the next month or two.
6.6 Treasurer
Bank account balance as at the end of October was $2,310.92.
Jean Bellis submitted a claim for $105 for the update of the club trophies.
6.7 Secretary
Yet to submit annual report to Consumer Affairs Victoria.
6.8 President
Damian met with the marketing manager of the Subara Docklands dealership. Subaru Docklands are interested in the club running some 4WD course for their customers for a fee. Damian will pursue further discussions.
4WD Victoria AGM – Damian needs a delegate to attend in Damian‟s place due to him having a prior commitment. The club will also purchase the 20 raffle tickets and re-raffle any winnings within the club.
7. Club Christmas Party
Martin and Andrew have discussed the location and trip to there.
“Friends of Kirth Kiln” have offered to open the sheds and kilns for
viewing.
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COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
The navigation challenge to the lunch place has both 2WD and
4WD versions. The 4WD version will be somewhat dependent upon weather.
Damian (via Angela) will look after the lollies and icy-poles.
Barbecue will be sourced from Jean Bellis.
Folding trestle tables will be sourced from Damian and Peter.
Damian will approach the AWD Club to see if they are interested in
joining in the Christmas Party (if they don‟t have one).
8. General Business
At a recent meeting at 4WD Victoria, it was made obvious how the
perception of a club by members and outsiders can be adversely affected by inappropriate or seemingly minor comments, and how quickly such perceptions can travel through the 4WD community.
9. Next Meeting will be held on Tuesday 6th December 2011 at 7:30pm at
the home of Dale Rebgetz.
10. Meeting closed at 10:20pm.
Border Track Trip: Lunch at Wonga Camp Ground in Wyperfeld NP
