WAN LAKE CAMPING AREA, MT RICHMOND

In May 2022, Dan Ho ran a trip to the Portland Dune Buggy Club’s property. Since that time, several people within the Club have enquired when the next trip to the Portland Sand Dunes might be.

What are the sand dunes like?

The sand dunes at Portland are migrating sand dunes. This means they are constantly shifting in shape and location as they are blown by the wind. Unlike the sand dunes in the Big Desert and on the Border Track, the sand here is not held together by vegetation and there is not a firm base underneath the loose sand. In short, they are not dissimilar to the sand dunes one see in films of the Sahara Desert sand dunes, just a different colour.

What is it like to drive on these sand dunes?

Driving on these sand dunes is nothing like driving on sandy beaches, Big Desert, or the Border Track. It is a little like driving on deep dense snow.

How far is the PDBC?

The PDBC’s facility is adjacent to the public campground at Swan Lake, Mount Richmond (https://goo.gl/maps/bCgZ74i3RVZ9q1bQ6). It is 380km from Melbourne.

It is accessible with large caravans and camper trailers.

What is the typical itinerary?

The itinerary for this trip is a relaxing one. There is no rushing involved.

The PDBC campground has good quality bore water, flushing toilets, and designated fire pits.

There are sources of wood nearby, making it easy to have a good size camp fire each night.

Friday: For those arriving in time, a 2hr reccy starting after lunch to familiarise with the terrain and navigation.

Sat&Sun: A morning session and an afternoon session, with lunch back at Camp. Finish the day no later than 4pm for nibbles and drinks

Mon: Leisurely pack up in the morning. Lunch in Portland, then head home

Vehicle requirements

The sand dunes are steep and the bases of them involve sharp angles. It is not uncommon for vehicles to suffer front and rear bumper damage. Therefore, your vehicle must meet the following requirements:

• Good approach angle. Note that Outbacks and XV not fitted with SX bull bars are likely end up ripping their front bumper bar off.

• Good departure angle. Note that Outbacks with stock rear bumper are likely to suffer rear bumper bar damage.

This sounds dangerous. Why are we going driving on the sand dunes?

Driving at the Portland Sand Dunes certainly has potential for vehicle damage. Equally, driving on those sand dunes is a lot of fun. The scenery is fantastic with a relaxing pace to allow time to soak in the experience. It is not for everybody, but many 4WDrivers go back to Portland year after year.

Let the Trip and Social Coordinator know if you would like to see the Club organise another trip to the Portland Sand Dunes.