Horizons 2017 February/March

What’s on in WA + Member Benefits + 10 of the best

Your RAC magazine February / March 2017

WIN!

a Mazda2 Maxx page 28

10 motoring myths We sort fact from fiction

Crunch time Tell the next State Government that congestion matters

Land of the giants The grandeur of WA’s far south

Epic road trip Two RAC members embark on a six-continent driving adventure

Better connected for better decisions

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Advanced accuracy Results you can trust: Exceeds the current ISO accuracy 3,4,5 standards. standards.

All your data, intelligently stored Your glucose results transfer wirelessly to the Accu-Chek Connect app on your compatible smartphone* – no need for paper diaries.

Hard to miss Apply a small blood drop anywhere on the yellow edge of the test strip.

One click is all it takes The Accu-Chek Fastclix lancing device provides virtually pain free lancing.6

Monitor in the dark The new Accu-Chek Guide meter has a bright backlit display – and a strip port light.

No touch strip removal With the strip ejector button, a single click is all it takes for fast and easy7 hygienic removal of test strips.

Text your latest glucose result to your parents/carers.

Spill resistant The new vial is designed to hold your strips tightly in place.

View a summary of all your diabetes information online, whenever it’s convenient.

*Available for select mobile devices. Visit www.accu-check.com.au/dmapp to see if the Accu-Chek Connect diabetes management app is compatible with your device.

Available in these selected locations • Armadale Central • Balga • Beechboro • Carine • Coolbellup • Dianella • Doubleview • Ellenbrook • Geraldton • Hamilton Hill • Meadow Springs • Midland • Myaree • Northgate • Quinns • South Lake • Stirlings • Sunset Beach • Waikiki

Horizons

Inside

WIN!

Your RAC magazine February / March 2017

a Mazda2 Maxx

Editor-in-Chief Will Golsby Editor Vanessa Pogorelic

See page 28

Managing Editor Lucy Siebert Publisher Christine Dixon Design Glenn Moffatt Advertising Des McNamara (WA only) tel: 08 9388 7844 des@mediatonic.com.au Kerri Spillane tel: 03 8520 6444 kerrispillane@hardiegrant.com.au

Horizons is published for The Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc)

by Hardie Grant Media Building 1, 658 Church Street Richmond VIC 3121 Australia hardiegrant.com.au

30 Our

fantastic forests

Exploring the Great Southern and Southern Forests

CAB audited as at March 2016 is 532,542 Cover image: Michaela and Alex Ferreira, Tom Price on the way to Karijini Australia Post ISSN No 0810 8285.

The opinions contained in this publication may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.

Advertisements in Horizons are the responsibility of the advertiser. No person should act or rely upon such opinions or advice and RAC accepts no liability for them. Any rewards or rights provided to a member cannot be transferred, assigned, sold or redeemed for cash. Inclusion of a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.

4 Horizons February / March 2017

12

26

54

Test runs in progress

In the nick of time

New car reviews

Perth’s driverless electric bus continues its testing in South Perth.

The RAC Rescue helicopter’s life-saving dash to a South West farm.

The Subaru Levorg and three other new cars are put through their paces.

Inside

your Horizons 62 Member Lounge

23

36

43

49

Motoring myths debunked

Camping safety tips; a classic car story; personal safety devices; get your car road-trip ready and join RAC Cervantes Holiday Park’s grand re-launch.

WA couple driving around the globe

67

Caravanning and camping in WA

Cuba: then and now

Member Benefits

Regulars

Travel

Move

7 President’s message

17 What’s on

18 State Election time

The State Election is critical for the future of WA.

Events around the state.

Transport priorities for WA.

30 Our fantastic forests

23 True or false?

WA’s Great Southern Forests.

Top 10 motoring myths.

36 Driving the world

26 In the nick of time

8 Mailbox Members’ letters.

9 Exchange Sharing your views.

True camper van adventure.

RAC Rescue helicopter mission.

12 Snapshot

41 Travel brief

59 What’s new

News from the RAC.

News from RAC Travel.

The latest news in motoring.

82 The 10 best

43 Opening up Cuba

61 Car doctor

Rock formations.

A changing Caribbean island.

Your questions answered.

Show your card and save on everything from vehicle maintenance to groceries, entertainment and travel.

Download our free Member Benefits app to discover where you can save with exclusive member offers.

Log on today and make the most of your RAC membership rac.com.au/memberbenefits

February / March 2017 Horizons 5

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President’s message

The Royal Automobile Club of WA (INC) 832 Wellington Street, West Perth.

GPO Box C140, Perth WA 6839. tel: 13 17 03 rac.com.au RAC Member Service Centres Metropolitan Carousel: Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. Morley: Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. West Perth (Head Office): 832 Wellington St. Regional Albany: 110 Albany Hwy. Bunbury: Shop 32, Stirling Centre, Stephen St. Geraldton: Shop 29, Centro Northgate Shopping Centre, Chapman Rd. Kalgoorlie: 51-53 Hannan St. Mandurah: Shop SP037, Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Wy. RAC Travel Centres Applecross: Shop 2, 14-16 Riseley St, tel: 1300 657 681 Carousel: Shop 1098, Westfield Carousel, 1382 Albany Hwy. tel: 9365 4700 Joondalup: Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre (external), Shop E24, Boas Ave. tel: 9308 1600 Midland: Shop 100, Midland Gate Shopping Centre, 274 Great Eastern Hwy. tel: 6150 6468 Mandurah: Shop SP037 Halls Head Central, 14 Guava Wy. tel: 6150 6456 Morley: Shop 1, Morley Markets, Bishop St. tel: 6466 2300 West Perth: 832 Wellington St. tel: 9436 4830 Deaf, hearing or speech impaired members: Emergency Roadside Assistance SMS number 0434 182 877 All queries relayservice.gov.au RAC contact numbers Roadside Assistance 13 11 11 Battery Services 13 11 11 Membership 13 17 03 Motoring Advice 13 17 03 Vehicle Condition Appraisals 1300 797 078 Insurance 13 17 03 Finance 13 17 03 Travel 13 17 03 Touring 13 17 03 Security Services 13 17 03 RAC Auto Services 1300 135 667 Corporate Enquiries 9436 4111

2017 State Election – it’s crunch time The State Election in March is critical for RAC members and the future of our state.

Without change Western Australia is forecast to buckle under the pressure of congestion, and our regional communities require increased investment in the transport projects needed to keep them safe and connected.

Over the past four years RAC has consistently called for a number of key metropolitan transport projects and initiatives to help manage congestion in Perth, including investment in public transport, better cycling infrastructure, new approaches to land-use planning and the use of innovative technology to get more out of our existing transport network.

Transport and land-use planning are inextricably linked. While managing the operation of our transport network is part of the response to a more connected community, we also need to plan our city so that people do not need to travel so far or often. This means giving people the option of accessing jobs and services locally.

Western Australia’s road maintenance backlog also urgently needs to be addressed. The 2016 WA Auditor General’s report found that “the backlog of overdue road maintenance remains high at $845 million and is likely to stay high given the minimal effort directed at preventative maintenance.”

In 2009 the Auditor General outlined that a “third of the network was older than its 40-year design life”. Currently it is 46 per cent.

The delivery of a coordinated and transparent road safety plan for regional WA covering enforcement, road maintenance and education, funded by the Road Trauma Trust Account and Royalties for Regions, is an urgent priority and must be delivered.

This is because the combination of driver behaviour and the condition of the roads

is felt nowhere more strongly than across our regional communities, which year-onyear have consistently felt the devastating impact of road trauma, particularly in the Wheatbelt.

This State Election is about choice: the choice to be safer on our roads, the choice to drive, ride, walk and take public transport. It is also about the choice of easier and more affordable ways to move around our community and the state.

In 2017, RAC wants the next State Government to commit and deliver on three key promises: 1. Saving Western Australian lives and preventing serious injuries on our roads 2. Managing congestion by delivering integrated, scheduled and fully-funded transport projects across the public transport, road and cycling networks 3. Keeping the cost of motoring down.

More information can be found at rac.com.au/givemetime. O

The State Election in March is critical for RAC members and the future of our state.

Tony Evans RAC President

Your RAC Council Club Patron Her Excellency the Honourable Kerry Sanderson AC, Governor of Western Australia President Tony Evans Senior Vice President Jacqueline Ronchi Vice President Ross Dowling Members of Council Dennis Banks, Esme Bowen, Freda Crucitti, Jill Darby, Dalton Gooding, Alden Halse, Murray Lampard, Stephanie Proud, Elizabeth Re, Emmerson Richardson, Tim Shanahan, Julie Wadley.

February / March 2017 Horizons 7

Contact the editor Email editor@rac.com.au or write to The Editor, RAC Horizons Magazine, GPO Box C140 Perth WA 6839.

Mailbox

Join the discussion about the RAC and the magazine Early car-share attempt

Our winning letter Saved by seatbelts Your article ‘Seatbelt car turns 60’ (Horizons, October/ November 2016) brought back memories of an incident in my early married life. In late 1962 I purchased a new EK Holden Station Wagon.

At the time, there was quite a lot of public discussion on the fitting of seat belts to vehicles. Being conservative by nature I had a lap-sash fitted to the passenger seat and the driver’s seat. In late March 1963 my wife and I had been water skiing with friends at Deep Water Point and were heading home for lunch. At an intersection a Hillman Husky van drove straight through. The Holden hit the Hillman; his forward speed pulled the front of the Holden to the right, the Holden swung to the left rolling through 360 degrees on to its wheels. The vehicle bent with a crease in the roof right behind my wife’s head.

As we rolled, the crease caught my wife’s head just behind the left ear resulting in concussion, but without the seatbelts there is no way my wife and I could have 8 Horizons February / March 2017

EK Holden Station Wagon

survived. And, the really good news – a daughter Katrina Jill was born to us in December 1963.

Selby Munsie

Driving overseas

For more information about International Driver’s Permits, visit rac.com.au/idp.

Recent roadside rescues

After taking possession of a hire car in Eastern Europe, the rental company inquired whether I held an International Driver’s Permit.

In addition to it being a legal requirement in the country I was in, without it the level of insurance cover available was reduced. I had never held one for other overseas trips and hadn’t thought of obtaining one. Thankfully, I did not need to drive the car for four days. With some assistance from friends in Perth and outstanding assistance from RAC, my permit was issued, couriered and received by me in three days. Massive inconvenience to my travel plans was saved. For a small price, a permit can save a lot of unanticipated angst during international travel to countries that require one.

It’s certainly worth obtaining before travelling.

I have been with RAC since about 1960 and have needed help on a few occasions and again recently. I was driving home about 7pm when I had a flat tyre. I pulled in to a fast-food outlet to be safe. I rang the RAC and was told I may have to wait up to about 60 minutes. In fact I waited only about 20 minutes. The van was driven by a young man named Jeff, whom I met about three weeks before when I had a flat battery that needed replacing. He was polite, helpful and cheerful.

We chatted like old friends.

He replaced my damaged tyre in a short while – very efficiently. I cannot thank the RAC enough for the assistance I received on both of these recent occasions and other times in the past.

I have always been attended to in a professional, friendly and timely manner. Thank you most sincerely.

Jon Petelczyc

Evelyn Taylor

Your car-sharing article (Horizons, December/January) reminded me of my attempt to introduce car-pooling to Perth in the mid-1980s.

With freeway usage data from Main Roads, I calculated that if I could get the price of a tank of fuel from five per cent of drivers, I’d be a millionaire!

Drivers would register for $20 and I’d then match them up. I had 2000 brochures printed, which I distributed to drivers as they entered the Perth number one car park.

I got three replies. The first was one I sent to myself to test the system. The second was from another bloke with the same idea who wanted to join forces. The third was a bill from the printer for $600.

It seems we’d rather sit in the Mitchell Freeway ‘car park’ for an hour than lose our independence.

Sid Whiting

WIN free roadside assistance for one year

Each issue, the author of the best letter will win a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance that gives motorists additional peace of mind by offering a range of extended benefits.

For assistance or more information

call 13 17 03 or visit rac.com.au.

Terms and conditions on page 81.

Published letters may be edited for style and length. While we try to respond to all letters we receive, a response cannot be guaranteed.

Exchange Feedback, opinion and fast facts RAC ONLINE POLL RESULT

Ahead of the 2017 State Election, how confident are you that WA’s major political parties have plans in place to deliver adequate transport projects for the future?

Confident

% 11

Not confident

% 89

CAMPING OUT

6210 This Mandurah-region postcode had the highest combined number of caravan and campervan registrations in Australia.

Find out more about caravanning and camping in WA on page 46.

2016 Caravan and Campervan registration density by top 30 postcodes ABS Motor Vehicle Census

CRASH TESTING

RAC ONLINE POLL

9 out of 10

Tell us …

new car buyers in Australia believe ANCAP car safety ratings should be displayed on all new cars.

337 crash test dummies

Are you interested in owning an electric vehicle?

were ‘totalled’ in the name of vehicle safety in 2015/16.

Take our poll at rac.com.au/exchange

Australasian New Car Assessment Program

Poll closes 21 February 2017

facebook.com/racwa

twitter.com/racwa

Exchange your views by email: editor@rac.com.au February / March 2017 Horizons 9

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Snapshot News in brief from the RAC & beyond

RAC driverless bus continues its South Perth run RAC’s driverless electric shuttle bus, the RAC Intellibus™, has been transporting passengers in South Perth since September 2016 as part of the on-road stage of its trial, with the support of the WA State Government and the City of South Perth.

The RAC Intellibus™ interacts with traffic as it travels along South Perth Esplanade between the Old Mill, near the Narrows Bridge and Sir James Mitchell Park.

12 Horizons February / March 2017

As of 7 December 2016, more than 1500 people had taken part in the trial and ridden on the shuttle.

The RAC Intellibus™ was launched in August 2016, with initial testing of the shuttle taking place in a closed off-road environment.

The public trial, which is the third stage of the Automated Vehicle Trial, aims to have RAC members and the WA community experience driverless vehicle technology and increase

awareness and understanding of the impact and opportunities for automated vehicle technology.

To take part in the on-road trial in South Perth you can either register online, at the RAC Intellibus™ Hub in South Perth or with a Driverless Vehicle Chaperone on site.

The operation hours are Monday to Thursday and Saturday from 10am–12pm and 1pm-3pm. To find out more, visit racintellibus.com.au.

Snapshot

Back to school rules Remember to slow down in school zones as students are returning for Term One from the beginning of February.

Young students in their first year of school may not have developed good road sense, making it even more important for motorists to drive cautiously and within the limit during school drop-off and pickup times.

Parents should remind children to take extra care when near roads and ensure they are aware of road rules that affect them and to make sure they wear a well-fitting approved bicycle helmet if riding to and from school.

School zones are in place outside primary and high schools across the state from 7.30–9am and 2.30–4pm on all school days. At all other times the regular speed limit applies.

Understand your ‘connected car’ To help inform motorists of the emergence of ‘connected’ cars and the potential benefits and risks associated with them, RAC along with the Australian Automobile Association has launched the My Car My Data website.

RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said connected cars offer many consumer benefits such as communicating with the world around them and helping drivers to be aware of and avoid traffic snarls or dangers on the road.

But, technology advances could mean that when consumers buy their next new car, it may be capable of gathering information about the vehicle and the driver and sending it to the carmaker.

“Transmission of this data can help drivers reach their destination more quickly, more safely and more fuelefficiently. In the event of an incident or a crash, a connected car can alert emergency services,” Mr Golsby said.

“But the control of the data and of the security codes to access maintenance and repair activities may pose potential privacy risks and possibly drive up running and repair costs.”

The experience in Europe has been that drivers of connected cars have only been able to share vehicle data with the relevant carmaker. Many industry observers believe that if this situation is replicated in Australia, car owners may be left with little choice but to take their car to a branded repairer.

There are also potential privacy concerns, as connected car technology opens up the opportunity for car makers to pass on or sell personal information to third parties.

Nissan predicts that by August 2020 the number of electric vehicle charging stations will overtake petrol stations in the UK. The carmaker added that the UK had lost more than 75 per cent of petrol stations in four decades, while electric vehicle charging points have gone from hundreds to thousands in just a few years.

Mr Golsby said: “It’s important that motorists are told what information car makers collect and what it’s used for before this technology becomes widespread in Australia.

It’s also important that our Members of Parliament consider the need for regulation to protect the consumer rights of WA motorists.” Visit mycarmydata.com.au.

February / March 2017 Horizons 13

Snapshot

Top 10

motor-vehicle theft targets Motor vehicle theft increased by seven per cent in Australia in 2015/16, with WA, Victoria and Queensland recording some of the most significant increases in passenger and light commercial vehicle theft, according to the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council. Overall, national theft volumes are down eight per cent from five years ago.

Inspiring change on regional roads An innovative road safety program developed at Kulin District High School (DHS) in the Wheatbelt has given students an invaluable insight into road safety – a vital initiative in a region where the road fatality rate was eleven times the average of metropolitan Perth between 2009 and 2013.

Inspired by RAC’s Elephant in the Wheatbelt campaign, which is raising awareness of road trauma in the region, Kulin DHS developed a road safety program for students of all ages. It also created its own elephant sculpture based on RAC’s elephant and coordinated a road safety event day in October last year.

RAC’s Elephant in the Wheatbelt sculpture was brought to the school for the road safety day, which was attended

by Kidsafe WA, the Department of Fire 14 Horizons February / March 2017

and Emergency Services, local police and SDERA – a program educating children and young people about road safety, alcohol and other drugs.

During the event students also took part in a number of road safety activities.

RAC’s General Manager Corporate Affairs, Will Golsby, said the initiative was an impressive example of how Wheatbelt communities can actively participate in raising awareness of road safety.

“We’re proud to have been part of this event and to know that Kulin District High School has taken inspiration from our Elephant in the Wheatbelt campaign to continue the conversation about road safety in their community.

“Addressing these issues with our young people is critical if we’re to change behaviour and have a positive impact on road safety in the region.”

During the year, students learnt about road signs and road rules, participated in activities that demonstrated driver inattention and conducted experiments that showed how fragile occupants are in a vehicle.

To find out more about RAC’s Elephant in the Wheatbelt campaign visit elephantinthewheatbelt.rac.com.au.

The top 10 motor vehicle theft targets in 2015/16 were: Nissan Pulsar N15 1995–2000

Holden Commodore VE 2006–13

Toyota Hilux 2005–11

Holden Commodore VT 1997–2000

Holden Commodore VX 2000–02

Ford Falcon BA 2002–05

Holden Commodore VY 2002–04

Holden Commodore VZ 2004–06

Ford Falcon AU 1998–2002

Toyota Hilux 1998–2004

It came as a bit of a blow...

It makes me cringe a little now when I think back on how long it took me to acknowledge that I had a hearing loss.

I was the facilities manager in a very large government building in Midland that had an open plan office set up. One day the boss of the section next to mine complained that my loud voice, when I was talking on the phone or with colleagues, was disturbing his staff.

I suspect it’s probably a fairly typical automatic reaction, but I was not prepared to accept what at the time seemed like a personal criticism and so my denial continued for a while longer.

My family must have been frustrated with me as well because I wasn’t hearing exactly what they were saying, and they were constantly having to repeat themselves. I recall also that I was experiencing trouble hearing in meetings, continually having to ask for clarification of what speakers were saying, often to my embarrassment. In the family car, I couldn’t hear what my Son was saying to me from the back seat, and making out the lyrics of songs, even when the music was loud, was beyond me.

But it came as a bit of a blow to hear that I was disturbing other employees in the office. I was effectively, without realising it, raising my voice to compensate

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for being unable to hear what people were saying. Some of the colleagues were formerly my staff who had previously been very tolerant and made light of the issue, not wanting to offend me I guess.

In frustration, I had my hearing checked with a 50% loss in the high frequencies, but overall only about 23%, which didn’t seem terribly serious to me. So it still took me some further time to come to the recognition that I needed to act.

Eventually I crossed the road to Brad’s practice in Midland and got fitted with hearing aids. The result of regained hearing reminded me of the joy I felt when I bit into my first apple after having titanium implants inserted: both these procedures, hearing aids and new teeth, had radically improved my quality of life.

From my personal experience with Brad and his staff, I can see why it is important to choose your audiologist wisely.

Hearing aids aren’t like glasses; you don’t just put them on and walk away. They are tiny little computers sitting in warm damp places, and they need to be maintained.

With hearing aids, you must have faith in the integrity of the person providing them. I have come to trust Brad’s professionalism and judgment absolutely. His staff back him up, too, with friendly and efficient service.

If anyone would like to check out my story of hearing rehabilitation, then please get my phone number from Brad’s office and give me a call. John Radalj

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Pictured: pianist Daniil Trifonov

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An additional fee of $4.40 per transaction applies for delivery via Registered Post.

What’s on

D Events around the state in February and March Sculpture by the Sea, Cottlesloe 3–20 March Cottlesloe Beach Set on the beautiful shore of Cottlesloe Beach, the exhibition runs from the sea wall around to North Cottlesloe with some artworks also featured on the surrounding grass areas. Wander through this temporary sculpture park via stairs along Marine Parade or via access ramps.

Perth International Arts Festival 10 February–5 March

Bringing creative work from all over the world to Western Australia, this year’s PIAF features a program of world-class dance, theatre, film, music and visual arts, as well as featured guests including children’s author James Foley and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mei Fong.

For more information, go to perthfestival.com.au.

sculpturebythesea.com/cottesloe

Mandurah Crab Fest

Boyup Brook Country Music Festival 16–19 February Boyup Brook See Australian country music superstar Lee Kernaghan at this year’s Boyup Brook Country Music Festival. Make sure you experience the new virtual reality RAC Rescue Experience, which will feature as part of RAC’s sponsorship of the event. countrymusicwa.com.au

A Day on the Green 2 February Kings Park and Botanic Garden Enjoy good food and wine with a backdrop of live music and stunning scenery. This year’s concert experience features Simple Minds performing with The B-52s, alongside guests Models and Machinations.

For more information, go to adayonthegreen.com.au.

Lotterywest Festival Opening, Boorn Waanginy: The Trees Speak 10, 11 and 12 February, Kings Park from 8pm. Free.

Perth’s iconic Kings Park will be gloriously recast as a cathedral of light, sound and dazzling imagery over three extraordinary nights of the

18 and 19 March Mandurah Showcasing the Mandurah and Peel regions, Crabfest is serving up local produce, fresh seafood and gourmet grub. The jam-packed program includes art exhibits, BMX and skate shows, as well as water aerobics and jet boarding, among a host of other entertainment offerings. crabfest.com.au

Astrofest 18 March Curtin Stadium and Edinburgh Oval, Bentley For lovers of astronomy and those keen to start learning, get along to Astrofest to peer through telescopes and examine the skies for planets and constellations.

The program includes a range of talks and shows.

2017 Perth International Arts Festival opening weekend. The Lotterywest Festival Opening, Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak will be a magical nocturnal wonderland embracing audiences as they walk deep into Kings Park to explore the six seasons of Australia’s beautiful and biodiverse South West. The free walk-through spectacular starts in Fraser Avenue as its famous eucalypts burst into life with stunning 3D projections, great flocks of birds appear to fly overhead and giant marsupials and other animals lead us back to the age of the megafauna.

Animators, designers, Noongar storytellers, artists and scientists will reflect Kings Park as a natural treasure trove of beauty, wisdom and knowledge.

World Super 6 Perth

5 March Blackwood River Foreshore Perfect for the whole family, there are both water- and land-based activities on offer for a fun-filled Labour Day long weekend. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display over the Blackwood River.

22–26 March Claremont Showgrounds Join us at WA’s premier caravan and camping exhibition, where hundreds of the latest caravans and camper-trailers will be on display at the Claremont Showgrounds. Purchase your tickets online for free Transperth travel.

perthfestival.com.au

augustariverfestival.com

caravanandcampingshow.com.au

16–19 February This new-format event will take place at Lake Karrinyup Country Club. It will combine a traditional 72-hole stroke play event with a knockout format on the last day, which will see 24 players battle it out over six-hole matches. pga.org.au

Augusta River Festival

astronomywa.net.au/astrofest

RAC Perth Caravan & Camping Show

February / March 2017 Horizons 17

Transport

Give me time.

Give me a lifetime.

Ahead of the 2017 State Election, managing congestion and saving lives on WA roads remain key priorities for our next State Government.

I

t’s been four years since Western Australians last went to the state polls. Congestion remains one of the top issues and, tragically, at the time of writing, 2016 was on track to be one of the worst years on record for fatalities on WA roads.

In 2017, RAC has identified the following priorities for the next State Government to deliver: 1. Saving WA lives and preventing serious injuries on our roads 2. Managing congestion by delivering integrated, scheduled and fully funded transport projects across the public transport, road and cycling networks 3. Keeping the cost of motoring down.

18 Horizons February / March 2017

RAC Executive General Manager Advocacy and Members Pat Walker says that for more than 110 years, RAC has been campaigning for the rights of Western Australians and advocating for change on behalf of our members.

“RAC’s commitment to achieve safer, easier and more sustainable transport options for all Western Australians remains unchanged,” Mr Walker says.

“The message from RAC members to the next State Government is clear – now is not the time to get complacent, even though the WA economy and population growth has slowed.”

According to Infrastructure Australia, the Australian Government’s expert body, it is predicted that by 2031 seven out of

the 10 most congested roads in Australia will be in Perth, including the top four, unless investment is made now.

“Congestion can have a huge personal impact – the more time spent in our vehicle means less time with our families, going to the gym or enjoying a hobby.

“An alarm is sounding and with no single solution to fix congestion, investment in Perth’s transport network, which includes public transport and cycling, is vital,” Mr Walker says.

In addition, improving the state’s road safety record must be a priority going forward.

Mr Walker says despite the RAC welcoming changes to road safety governance in WA since the last election

Transport

Saving lives and preventing serious injuries

Congestion can have a huge personal impact – the more time spent in our vehicle means less time with our families, going to the gym or enjoying a hobby.

Too many people are being killed and seriously injured on our roads. WA’s road fatality rate has gone from being the lowest in Australia 20 years ago to one of the highest today. Our road safety record is unacceptable.

Tragically the majority of people killed on our roads are country drivers. The Wheatbelt’s road fatality rate has remained significantly higher than the rest of WA and the single worst regional area in the state.

– a move RAC called for in 2012 – we believe even greater accountability and transparency is needed.

“No Western Australian can be proud of what is happening on our roads,” he says.

In 2015, 161 people died on our roads (87 in regional WA).

Preliminary figures showed 194 people lost their lives on WA roads in 2016 – the state’s worst road fatality figure in eight years and 16 more than the five year average.

“We all have a role to play when it comes to making better choices when we get behind the wheel.

Together we need to make a change.”

On behalf of our 850,000 members, RAC will monitor and analyse all transport infrastructure and road safety announcements during the election campaign.

Accelerate the delivery of a coordinated and transparent road safety plan for regional WA covering enforcement, maintenance and education funded by the Road Trauma Trust Account and Royalties for Regions. Priority should be given to the Wheatbelt region.

Why this election should matter to you RAC members want choice: the choice to be safe on our roads, the choice to drive, ride, walk and take public transport, the choice of easier and more affordable ways to move around our community and our state.

The next State Government needs to: Guarantee that all Road Trauma Trust Account funds are spent or allocated every financial year, with the full list of projects and programs made publicly available.

Fund a dedicated program to reduce the road maintenance backlog by at least 30 per cent in the next term of government.

Reduce the severity and occurrence of crashes on the road network by accelerating funding for roadside barriers, audible edge lines, sealed shoulders and intersection upgrades.

Change the road safety legislation to guarantee the Road Safety Commissioner reports directly to Parliament to increase transparency and accountability.

Legislate to increase on-road protection for emergency service, roadside and breakdown response workers.

Increase the number of traffic hours performed by WA Police in line with those used by states with the lowest road fatality rate.

For the full list of road safety priorities visit rac.com.au/givemetime.

Did you know?

The

Mitchell Freeway is forecast to be the most congested road in the country

by 2031 Infrastructure Australia report, May 2015

Road congestion will cost Perth more than

$16

billion a year by 2031 Infrastructure Australia report, May 2015

Preliminary figures showed that in 2016

194

people had lost their lives on WA roads – the state’s worst road fatality figure in eight years and

16 more than the five year average February / March 2017 Horizons 19

Transport

THE POWER OF MEMBERSHIP Managing congestion Congestion must be managed by delivering integrated, scheduled and fully-funded transport projects across public transport, road and cycling networks. Figures released from the Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics last year showed the average travelling time for Perth workers is almost half an hour each way — or the equivalent of 10 days a year.

And, along with the personal cost, comes the cost to the economy. Infrastructure Australia has forecast that, without change, the cost of congestion to the WA economy will be more than $16 billion a year by 2031.

The next State Government needs to: Prioritise, fund and outline the timing of the major transport road and rail projects required for WA in the long term within the first 12 months of government.

Commit and fund the Thornlie rail line extension to Cockburn Central.

Commit and fund the Bunbury Outer Ring Road.

Prioritise funding to manage congestion at the worst congestion hotspots in Perth: Leach Highway/Welshpool Road, Mitchell Freeway, Tonkin Highway, Graham Farmer Freeway and Marmion Avenue.

Keeping the cost of motoring down The cost of motoring remains a ‘high priority’ issue for RAC members.

Costs and charges imposed by government, such as registration, compulsory third party insurance, including no-fault and licence fees, are levied regardless of use.

The next State Government needs to: Cap registration, compulsory third party insurance and licence fees at or below the rate of inflation.

Guarantee Third Party Insurance Fund dividends are directed to road safety programs and initiatives.

Guarantee transparent reporting of the Motor Vehicle (Catastrophic Injuries) Fund and ensure surpluses will not be paid as cash dividends to government.

Guarantee all monies received from any successful litigation paid for by taxes on motorists is directed to reduce premiums for motorists or road safety programs or initiatives. O

Establish a fully funded program to squeeze more out of the existing road network by better use of technology like intelligent transport systems and use of real-time travel information.

For the full list of motoring priorities visit rac.com.au/givemetime.

20 Horizons February / March 2017

A new emergency rescue helicopter based in the South West

A government review of road safety governance in our state

Greater investment in cycling infrastructure

Greater investment in regional road works to improve safety

Investment in public transport: Forrestfield– Airport Link

TAKE ACTION Show your support for RAC election priorities. Together we can advocate for change.

Email your local candidate via rac.com. au/givemetime

Double funding for cycling infrastructure.

Prioritise investment to enhance public transport access within 10km of the CBD and to provide high frequency services connecting key activity centres.

Western Australians went to the polls in 2013 in what was dubbed the “congestion election”, with transport issues ranking as the second biggest issue throughout the state.

The following was achieved:

Cap registration, compulsory third party insurance and licence fees at or below the rate of inflation.

For the full list of motoring priorities visit rac.com.au/givemetime.

Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper

Monitor the major political party election promises on transport and road safety – rac. com.au/givemetime Be part of the conversation – follow RAC on Facebook and Twitter

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You trust RAC to get your car going Our car servicing will keep it going » » » »

Essentials (minor service) Essentials Plus (major service) Logbook servicing Free wash and vacuum*

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Present this voucher when you drop off your car and we’ll give you $40 off your service

Call 1300 134 642 or book online at rac.com.au/as *With the exception of RAC’s 10% member discount, this offer is not to be used with any other offer. This promotional discount applies to Essentials, Essentials Plus and Logbook servicing only and is available to all members.

Simply call to request additional vouchers for other members in your household. Offer valid for car services conducted before 31 March 2017. Discount voucher to be presented at time of service. RAC 10% member discount applies to all labour costs performed by the RAC. Wash and vacuum is for floor/carpets of the vehicle only. Service provided by RAC Automotive Services P/L MRB 935. Promo Code: HORIZONS0217

Book at any of our nine Auto Services centres Balcatta » Bentley » Canning Vale » Joondalup » Mandurah » Morley » Myaree » Osborne Park » Perth City

Motoring

Words Samantha Stevens

True or false?

Top 10 motoring myths Do you know true from false when it comes to your car? We examine 10 motoring myths to find out if there is any truth in them.

The myth and mystery surrounding cars is as thick and pervasive as the oil in an underserviced engine. And no wonder, for you need a qualification in mechanics, electronics and computing to even begin to understand them. There’s also more than a century of old wives’ tales surrounding cars. We put 10 top myths to the test and try to separate fact from the fiction; the real from the ridiculous.

February / March 2017 Horizons 23

Motoring

Using a fuel with a higher octane rating than the Regularly fuel suited to running your your car can clean the engine. fuel tank close to empty can FALSE We are yet to be convinced that additives in some cause damage. premium fuels can clean fuel systems and other internal engine parts. The slightly smoother running and mild vehicle performance improvement often experienced by motorists using premium fuels is far more likely to be a result of the fuel’s higher octane.

The higher octane rating in premium fuels – 98RON or 95RON – versus 91RON is essentially stating the amount of compression the fuel can handle before detonation. You want your fuel to burn cleanly, not detonate, which produces that awful knocking, pinging noise. The more fuel can be compressed without igniting, the less likely it will detonate and the more performance that can be eked out of it.

So a car tuned for premium unleaded will run well on it, and the fuel will burn cleanly – but we haven’t seen independently proven evidence of it cleaning your engine.

Taking your car through a fully automatic car wash is better for the paintwork than washing All else being by hand. equal, automatic MAYBE This myth’s credibility is dependent on the person cars use more washing the car. An automatic carwash is far better for your paintwork than fuel than dishwashing liquid and a sponge with a dubious history. Many well-meaning manuals. car owners unintentionally damage their paintwork simply by using a dirty cloth; running cloths or sponges over the lower part of the car without thorough rinsing is a surefire way to mark the paint.

Using too little water can damage paint for the same reason.

Without good quality polish your paint is unprotected against the elements.

Either pay good money for the proper products and clean and polish carefully, or the carwash is the safer choice.

24 Horizons February / March 2017

Many traditional (torque converter) automatics will quote fuel figures that are slightly higher than their manual counterparts on the car brochure, but as technology progresses and powertrains evolve, this is also changing. Dual-clutch transmissions and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are beginning to change the game, with some using less fuel than their traditional manual counterparts.

MAYBE

Though the car would have to be running on fumes constantly for a long period of time, this myth has merit. Over time, sediment can build up in the bottom of the tank, and draining the tank can pull the gunk into the fuel filter faster, slowing your car to a coughing halt.

In modern cars, the electric fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank and should be surrounded by cool fuel – leaving it beached can cause it to overheat and need early replacement. And, of course, fuel surge is not good for an engine; stopping and starting the revolutions due to low fuel delivery can cause undue wear and tear.

TRUE

Putting your automatic vehicle into neutral while at traffic lights will save fuel and the gearbox.

Automatic transmissions are designed to be able to handle the vehicle being stationary with the drive selected. While a slight reduction in engine load can indeed save fuel over time, the savings are minuscule. Turning the engine off altogether produces more worthwhile savings, which is why newer cars are being produced with stop-start technology. Plus, unnecessary shifting at every light is tiring, both for you and the gearbox.

FALSE

Motoring

Putting your car’s remote control against your head increases its range.

As bizarre as it sounds, holding the key remote to your head can actually work, with your body amplifying the signal like a giant organic speaker. However, holding the key remote to a metal object like a pole can have a similar effect, electromagnetically pushing the signal further.

Plus, just like holding a mobile phone up for better reception, holding the keys at head height can also increase the effectiveness of the signal, removing the interference of other objects such as parked cars.

While this trick can actually work, there are no concrete explanations as to why it works, nor will it work every time.

And if you are to try it, pretend you are scratching your head so others in the parking lot don’t think you have lost your mind along with your car.

MAYBE

Resting your hand on the manual shifter can damage the gearbox.

Crack open a gearbox that’s done a few kilometres, and you will be able to tell if the driver rests their hand on the shifter while driving. The damage isn’t to the gears themselves, but the parts that select the gears. Pressure on the shifter forces these parts into each other and wears them down. It’s best to break this habit in case it eventually breaks something in the gearbox. Even better, it will get both hands back on the wheel.

TRUE

You can save your brakes from wearing out by using the gears to slow down. ...BUT. Brake pads and discs are perishable parts, and a front disc and pad combination can cost upwards of $500. Replacing pads and rotors on two or even all four wheels is an even bigger hit to the hip pocket, however this expense is relatively cheap when compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a gearbox.

Gearing down and using engine braking to slow your vehicle is all well and good if you are also using the brakes, but using the engine and gearbox alone to slow the vehicle can put undue stress on the powertrain, which is far more expensive to service, repair or replace.

TRUE

Old cars are safer than new cars because they were built out of thicker steel.

The great old tanks we (or our parents) drove in the halcyon days of the family sedan seem so solid and sizeable next to many of today’s vehicles. However, evolving technology continues to revolutionise the automotive landscape, particularly when it comes to safety, and people both inside and outside of today’s cars have the advantage of airbags, collapsible steering columns, crumple zones, deformable bumpers and gas-charged pop-up bonnets, plus active and passive driver aids can lessen or even avoid a collision completely.

In many instances, thicker steel cannot compare to the safety features now offered on even the cheapest runabouts, and while a crash between the latter and a big old tin-top may prove disastrous, a newer car will typically be far better at protecting its occupants and those in other cars or on foot in a far better way.

FALSE

Find out more about the safety ratings of new and used vehicles at rac.com.au/safercars.

Evolving technology continues to revolutionise the automotive landscape, particularly when it comes to safety...

Korean cars are below par compared with Japanese and European cars.

They were once the cheap and cheerful A-to-B alternative, and the price tag reflected the quality of the offering. But that was a long time ago, and the offerings from Korean car manufacturers such as Hyundai and Kia have products consistently in the top 10 sellers, garnering awards and praise from the harshest motoring critics. While the old cheap and cheerful (and therefore sometimes unreliable or low-quality) stigma still haunts some would-be buyers, Hyundai’s five-year and Kia’s unbeatable seven-year warranty plus long lists of features are the Korean’s primary ways of stamping out said concerns. And, most of the vehicles, particularly at the higher end of the pricing scale, have active and passive safety features equal to equivalent European vehicles – at a far more affordable price tag. O

FALSE

February / March 2017 Horizons 25

RAC Rescue helicopters

Words Jane Hammond

Running out of time An average day at work at a Donnybrook property became a race against time as Graeme Fry lay trapped, alone and severely injured after a quad bike rollover.

F

or 10 hours Graeme Fry lay pinned under a 400kg quad bike as he drifted in and out of consciousness in an isolated paddock in WA’s South West.

The massive weight on his legs was slowly killing him.

In excruciating pain Mr Fry could do nothing but wait for help – by the time it came, he was close to death.

Mr Fry, a weed-spraying contractor was working alone on a property at Donnybrook on the morning of 15 April 2013 when disaster struck.

He had taken his quad bike and a tank of chemical spray up a steep hill.

But, when he turned the vehicle around, it flipped over, landing on top of him.

“I don’t know what happened next but when I came to I was lying on my back with the full weight of the quad bike upturned across my legs,” Mr Fry says.

“I couldn’t push the bike off but I managed to reach up and turn the key to off. I then drained the chemical tank on the back to try to lighten the load.”

26 Horizons February / March 2017

The then 59-year-old father of three was no stranger to close calls having survived cancer decades earlier and a near-fatal car crash when he was still an infant. But lying in that paddock, he feared his run of lucky escapes might be over.

“The pain was horrendous. I knew no one would notice I was missing until it got dark so I knew I was in for a long wait,” Mr Fry says.

Unable to call for help During the ordeal Graeme’s mobile phone had been thrown from his pocket and lay hidden and out of reach several metres behind him.

The roll-over happened at about 9.30am and it was not until 6pm that he heard his phone ring. It was a relief to hear the mobile ring out six times until it finally went dead. He knew it had to be his wife and she would raise the alarm.

Fortunately, on the day of the incident he had told his wife where he would be working. It was a chance remark that probably helped save his life.

The then 59-yearold father of three was no stranger to close calls having survived cancer decades earlier and a near fatal car crash when he was still an infant but lying in that paddock he feared his run of lucky escapes might be over.

RAC Rescue helicopters

Within an hour a search team had been assembled and in dying light Mr Fry could hear the rescuers all around him.

With the last of his strength he lifted himself up to reach the bike’s keys and flashed his lights on and off. Within minutes, help had arrived.

The first rescuers on the scene lifted the heavy bike off his crushed limbs but the action sent Mr Fry into severe shock and he was then in need of urgent medical attention.

Air rescue hampered by fog An RAC Rescue helicopter was on its way but the terrain was difficult and a ground fog would make finding a safe place to land even more complex.

The rescue team placed their vehicles in a large circle and turned their headlights on to create an illuminated helipad for the aircraft.

But the fog made the ground impossible to see and it took three attempts before the helicopter could finally land and the paramedics could reach Mr Fry.

The quad bike’s weight had crushed Mr Fry’s left leg and his internal organs were starting to shut down. With just minutes to spare he was on his way to Royal Perth Hospital and life-saving surgery.

Long road to recovery He spent 10 weeks in intensive care and his family were told three times to say their goodbyes as he was so close to death.

With organ failure, a smashed leg, failing intestines and repeated infections Mr Fry had an immense battle ahead. Remarkably his condition gradually improved.

The road to a full recovery was long and tough but having worked hard to overcome his injuries, he now works as a forklift driver, after obtaining his heavy vehicle driver’s licence – a goal he set himself following the incident.

Mr Fry says he owes his life to the RAC Rescue helicopter and the work of its crew.

“The prompt evacuation from accident site to hospital probably gave me the extra hour that saved my life,” he says. O

The RAC Rescue helicopters Within 15 minutes of receiving a call out, an RAC Rescue helicopter can be in the air and on its way to deliver life-saving aid to people in emergency situations.

From car crashes to sea search-andrescues, mining or farm incidents, and essential hospital transfers, WA’s only 24/7 emergency rescue helicopter service covers more than 95 per cent of the state’s population.

Managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) the helicopters are staffed by a pilot, an air crewman and a critical care paramedic who can provide assistance to patients in the critical first few hours after a major injury.

The service was launched in 2003 with a helicopter based in Perth. This was extended in 2016 to include a second helicopter based in Bunbury. In October 2016 the RAC Rescue helicopter service flew its 5000th mission.

February / March 2017 Horizons 27

WIN A MAZDA2 MAXX valued at more than $21,000

To celebrate the launch of RAC’s new teen road safety membership Road Ready, we’re giving away a Mazda2 Maxx, from Parkland Mazda.

THE MAZDA2 MAXX COMES WITH RAC COMPREHENSIVE CAR INSURANCE, RAC ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE, 12 MONTHS’ REGISTRATION AND IT CARRIES A 5-STAR ANCAP SAFETY RATING. Mazda2 Maxx features include: O Six-speed automatic transmission O Rear camera O Seatbelt reminders for all seats O Keyless push-button start O Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio

PLUS

We’re also giving away 18 runner-up prizes: One Dyson Thredbo e-bike Two Retro ladies bikes Three Micro scooters Three skateboards Nine $150 Rebel Sport vouchers 28 Horizons February / March 2017

NEW TEEN ROAD SAFETY MEMBERSHIP – RAC ROAD READY Road Ready is RAC’s new road safety membership for high school students. We created Road Ready to help reduce fatalities and serious injuries on WA roads by raising awareness of road safety.

Early education is crucial to help our future road users make safer choices. Young people can use Road Ready as the go-to for all information about learning to drive, buying their first car and being out on the road.

What does it offer?

Road Ready is a free membership that offers road safety tips and resources for young people before they get their drivers licence, including: O Getting your licence O Learning to drive O Cyclist and pedestrian safety O Basic road rules RAC Road Ready membership also offers young people access to many discounts and benefits along with competitions and prizes. Members save on food, entertainment, shopping and much more. Parents will also find valuable information on the Road Ready website.

To find out more about RAC Road Ready visit rac.com.au/roadready.

TO ENTER Simply sign up your teenager for free RAC Road Ready membership.

Visit the Road Ready website and fill out the membership form by 7 April and you’ll automatically go in the draw to win.

Go to rac.com.au/winamazda

Why do we need it?

In 2015, 17–19 year olds represented just four per cent of the WA population yet made up 10 per cent of the fatalities on our roads.

Road Ready makes young people aware of the importance of safe driving behaviours and how they can positively impact their lives and the lives of people they care about when out on the road.

See page 81 for terms and conditions.

February / March 2017 Horizons 29

Travel

Words Mark Irving Photography Mark Irving and Department of Parks and Wildlife

OUR FANTASTIC FORESTS A visit to Western Australia’s Great Southern and Southern Forests reveals a region of spectacular scenery, accessible wildlife experiences and attractions rich in history.

F

orests and beaches, wildflowers and wild coastline, gourmet food and wine — the South West of WA has it all in abundance. Plus, these types of gems can be found not only in the well-frequented holiday haunts around Busselton and Margaret River, but further afield, too.

WA’s Southern Forests and the Great Southern are two such regions that each offer a host of attractions — natural and man-made; ancient and new.

Conveniently, the two areas are adjacent to each other in the South West, so it’s relatively quick to drive from one to another, allowing visitors to explore both destinations in one trip.

The Southern Forests encompass the Shire of Manjimup and, besides Manjimup, takes in such towns as Pemberton, Northcliffe and Walpole, while the Great Southern is one of WA’s nine regions.

Bigger than Belgium or Taiwan, the Great 30 Horizons February / March 2017

Southern takes in Kojonup, Katanning and Pingrup across to the Fitzgerald River National Park to its north, while its southern boundary is the WA coastline east of Walpole to Bremer Bay, and includes Denmark and Albany.

Those with several days to spare will be rewarded for going the extra kilometre or two with some iconic experiences on offer.

Kojonup to Mount Barker On the drive down from Perth, about three hours from the city, is Kojonup, a good place for a break and which has an agricultural claim to fame: the first shire in WA to boast one million sheep.

Kojonup is also notable for a remarkable cross-cultural and community-led development — the Kodja Place. This architecturally designed, purposebuilt rammed earth building houses a multifaceted display of artefacts and interactive displays telling the story of Kojonup’s Noongar-Aboriginal culture

alongside the history of the region’s settler culture. Noongar Elder Jack Cox is available to take visitors on tours through the centre, telling stories that bring the region’s Noongar-Aboriginal culture to life. The Kodja Place includes a rose garden (a rose maze, in fact) with more than 1400 roses. In springtime, they are truly glorious. You’ll also find a gallery displaying artworks and artefacts, a gift shop and a café open seven days.

An hour from Kojonup is Mount Barker — once famous for its apple orchards, today noted more as the entry to the Great Southern wine region. In sheer size, this is the biggest wine region in Australia.

One of its five sub-regions is just 30 minutes down the road on the east — the Porongurups, named after the small mountain range of the same name and home to some world-class rieslings and cool-climate shiraz wines. Those with a designated driver can opt to pop into local wineries, or in Albany, the Hybla Tavern’s

Perhaps the real beauty of both the Southern Forests and the Great Southern is that you don’t have to venture far from the beaten track to enjoy some of Australia’s finest wilderness.

February February // March March 2017 Horizons 31

Travel Below (top left, clockwise): The Granite Skywalk at Porongurup National Park; the new viewing platform at The Gap in Torndirrup National Park; Albany wind farm; the south coast is the southern terminus of the famous Bibbulmun Track.

is ablaze with colour. As with the Gap lookout in Albany, the Tree Top Walk and the Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout near Walpole, the Granite Skywalk is managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

There are lots of chances for cultural interaction here, too, including Poornarti Aboriginal Tours, which offers day and overnight camping tours of the region.

On a day-tour our group experienced traditional bush-tucker while watching our guide paint in the style of the acclaimed Carrolup settlement paintings made by Aboriginal students at the settlement school in the 1940s.

Albany and the southern coast very knowledgeable manager-cumsommelier, Alex Johnson, will be happy to explain why the local wines are so good.

Within the Porongurup National Park is the Granite Skywalk. The two-hour return walk follows a clear path upwards through lush bush land to the Castle Rock Summit.

Emerging from the path above the trees, a metal walkway jutting out from the granite rock offers spectacular views of farming and bush land below to the south and east. A metal ladder secured to the rock face offers those who are braver and more able an additional option to go higher again to a second walkway with views 32 Horizons February / March 2017

to the south and west. At least moderate fitness is required as the walk is relatively steep. Having said that, our group met a four-year-old in a tutu who managed to complete the trek, including the 65m scramble over rocks to the Castle Rock Summit. The Karri Lookout, the alternative lookout from the Granite Skywalk, is far easier to access and its views are equally impressive: bush and farmland all the way south to Albany.

This is an area of huge biodiversity with 750 native plant species in just 2600 hectares. In wildflower season, the trail and surrounding bush up to the Skywalk,

Further south Albany has some impressive coastal walks. The famous 1000km Bibbulmun Track ends here, passing a spectacular section of coastal cliffs and also the Albany Wind Farm.

Dramatic coastlines curve along the southern coast and one of the best views is from The Gap in the Torndirrup National Park near Albany where $6 million worth of visitor facilities have been installed.

From the recently built see-through steel lookout and walkway that juts out from the granite rocks, visitors can watch the waves crashing 40m below. If you’re in the area at the right time of year you

Travel Below clockwise from left: Unspoilt wilderness; the National Anzac Centre; Pamela Lincoln and Murray Gromm of the Oranje Tractor Winery.

might spot migrating whales further out to sea. Whale cruises to view humpbacks and southern right whales are also available from the boat harbour in Albany.

Recently, the Busy Blue Bus tour and charter company released a brand new tour for the 2017 season to the ecological hotspot of Bremer Bay Canyon in the Southern Ocean to take in the extraordinary wildlife, which includes orcas.

The Great Southern has attracted interest from many notable personalities, including Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. The two visited the Oranje Tractor Winery, 10km north west of Albany and owned by Murray Gromm and wife Pamela Lincoln, in 2015.

Mr Gromm reports His Royal Highness enjoyed discussing the benefits of mulch

and netting fruit trees to boost production.

For her part, Camilla declared an avocado provided by a local producer as the best she’d ever tasted.

The royals were in WA that year to mark the centenary of the Gallipoli campaign at the National Anzac Centre.

The centre opened on 1 November 2014, 100 years after the first Australian and New Zealand convoy departed for the battlefields of World War I from Albany’s King George Sound. In total, more than 41,000 Australian and New Zealanders departed Albany, one-third of whom never returned. The panoramic view out of the centre’s windows to the Sound makes for sombre viewing and even more sobering is the story of the Anzacs, told via an array of interactive devices.

Karri Valley Resort is a great place for visitors of all ages, though children especially enjoy the kayaking on Lake Beedelup and fishing from the balcony of the chalets.

A WOW Wilderness tour will also give the kids something else to talk about other than video games, though walking through the dunes might test the younger ones and the Granite Skywalk definitely will.

The award-winning Tree Top Walk is a must for all ages. It’s a Class One walk trail and its easy gradient makes it suitable for children, wheelchair-users and seniors alike.

Poornarti Aboriginal Tours, run out of Denmark and are available at the end of the Castle Rock Walk, are very educative and informative for all ages. The Kodja Place is a must-visit if passing through Kojonup.

Into the woods The real beauty of both the Southern Forests and Great Southern is that you often don’t have to venture far from the beaten track to enjoy some of Australia’s finest wilderness. The attractions are accessible and affordable. For visitors wanting to go further afield, such as driving through bush or along beaches, guided tours can help.

Pemberton Discovery Tours, for example, guides visitors through the Yeagarup Dunes, the largest land-locked sand dune system in the Southern Hemisphere. Tours traverse the Warren National Park and D’Entrecasteaux National Park, and “glamping” was recently added as an option.

“It’s not five star — I don’t think people

Couples especially will appreciate wine tasting and lunch at the Lake House in Denmark, the Boston Brewery for its craft beers and meals, and the indulgence of Chimes Spa Retreat in Denmark.

The Oranje Tractor Winery is a must for gardeners, the Thurlby Herb Farm in Denmark is a great place to collect some gifts for family left at home and, last, but certainly not least, everyone should add a visit to the National Anzac Centre in Albany for a truly impressive, interactive and historical learning experience.

February / March 2017 Horizons 33

Travel

The Tree Top Walk near Walpole.

Bunbury

Kojonup Margaret River SOUTHERN FORESTS

GREAT SOUTHERN

Manjimup

Frankland River Mount Barker

Pemberton Denmark Walpole

Albany

More info

The 600m-long Tree Top Walk in the Valley of the Giants, 50km west of Denmark, is hugely popular. want that,” says co-owner Graeme Dearle.

“It’s ‘easy care’ camping. I think people want the wilderness experience.”

Mr Dearle drives us past the camp site along the Yeagarup Track to the beach at the mouth of the Warren River where the tannin-laden river waters merge into the ocean’s blue waters.

Walpole is a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding forest. The 600m-long Tree Top Walk in the Valley of the Giants, 50km west of Denmark, is hugely popular.

Some three million people have visited since it opened 20 years ago in part to protect the shallow root system of the tingle trees from visitors; and in part to give better access (it’s wheelchair accessible) to the spectacular forest.

The walkways are specially designed to sway, enabling visitors to feel even more in tune with the towering timbers.

Afterwards, visitors can get even closer to the massive 400-year-old tingle trees on the interpretative Ancient Empire Walk.

34 Horizons February / March 2017

An energetic history lesson awaits those on a WOW Wilderness Ecocruise. Owner Gary Muir took our group on a boat ride across the Walpole Inlet and delivered a most educative and entertaining yarn along the way.

Mr Muir, a former conservation and land management officer, is a born educator and storyteller and had boat passengers in the palm of his hand as he told story after story, jumping with ease from the horses trained in Walpole for World War I to Russia.

Who’d have thought there were connections between sleepy Walpole and Lenin, Trotsky, the Mayor of Gallipoli, the Dreyfus Affair, Tour de France, Leo Tolstoy and dozens of others, including Mr Muir’s own ancestors?

It goes to show, the Great Southern is truly a place of great surprises. O Mark Irving travelled to the Great Southern and Southern Forests regions as a guest of Australia’s South West (ASW) and Tourism members of the ASW. Poornarti AboriginalTours.

When to go The Great Southern and Southern Forests are great year-round destinations.

Summer: the beaches and coast are naturally a drawcard for water activities.

Spring: abundant wildflowers and whale watching is very popular out of Albany from June to August.

Autumn and winter: enjoy full-flowing rivers, cosy cabins and log fires. Surfers enjoy winter swells.

What to pack Whatever the season, visitors should remember to pack warm clothing and rain gear as well as sunscreen and insect repellent. Don’t forget comfortable walking boots or shoes for those bush or beach walks.

Where to stay There’s myriad accommodation options including caravan parks, camping, seaside chalets, hotels and B&Bs. Camp Quaranup on Albany’s Princess Royal Harbour is a nature reserve that is available for groups.

The Beach House at Bayside in Albany is a marvellous boutique hotel for couples and families.

Events The Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival takes place in December. The Albany Classic Motor Event, held over the June long weekend, is a must for motoring enthusiasts. The Karri Valley Triathlon, held at the Karri Valley Resort, near Pemberton takes place in March.

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Travel

Words and images Michaela and Alex Ferreira

DRIVING THE WORLD RAC members Michaela and Alex Ferreira have embarked on a global self-drive adventure that will see them pass through more than 50 countries and six continents, all in a 22-year-old van.

S

ome would say we are the most unlikely couple imaginable – Alex comes from a conservative middle-class family who live in Rio de Janeiro, while I’m the progeny of two hippies who call Perth home. Alex is a mechanical engineer who loves engines, trying exotic foods, fourwheel driving and photography. I trained in public relations and have a passion for producing short films, getting active outdoors and exploring new places.

Just a month after we met, we travelled together throughout WA, then jetted off to Indonesia followed by driving up the east 36 Horizons February / March 2017

coast of Australia in a hired camper van.

We’ve lived and worked in Europe where we travelled by car through Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and Switzerland.

Plus, we’ve lived in Rio de Janeiro.

While we were there, we visited the USA, Argentina, Paraguay and drove throughout Brazil.

We’ve also been to New Zealand, Mauritius, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, the UK and the United Arab Emirates. It’s safe to say we love travelling!

Now, we are taking our travels to the next level by driving around the world in a 1994 Mitsubishi Delica camper van.

How we prepared to drive around the world For our drive around the globe, we calculated that we could travel virtually anywhere in our van, cooking and sleeping inside to keep costs down, while actually spending less money than we did living in our apartment in Perth.

To document our epic road trip and to inspire other people to make their dreams happen, we created our online blog, called greetingtheworld.com.

We had bought our van three-andhalf-years before we started the trip, but it took two-and-a-half years to prepare

Travel Facing page: Alex and Michaela at Mitchell Falls in the Kimberley. This page (top left, clockwise): breakdown near the Bungle Bungles; Jasper NP Canada; Cable Beach, Broome; crossing the Pentecost River on the Gibb River Road.

‘Vanda’, as she is fondly named, properly for the massive journey ahead. Some people doubted we’d complete our dream as Vanda is 22 years old and had already done 237,000km when we set out. But we knew her extremely well and although she’s reliable Alex, can also fix almost anything in case of a breakdown.

The van is a diesel four-wheel drive so we are able to drive anywhere with her and there’s space to eat, sleep and cook in the back.

To prepare Vanda for the road we added a second fuel tank, a 70-litre water tank, a rooftop tent, solar panel, fridge, cooker, bed, storage and universal power outlets to charge our appliances. We designed and built everything ourselves to save money for the actual trip, and although it took time, it was well worth the effort. We now have a comfortable home to live in.

The gear we’ve packed into Vanda includes a first aid kit, filming and photography equipment (including a drone), an extensive toolkit and spare parts, cooking utensils (including a 12-volt slow cooker), a range of cold and hot weather clothing and bedding, foldable hammock, tables and chairs, entertainment (books, cards, board games) and recovery gear in case we get bogged anywhere. We’ve packed as little as we can to keep our weight down and live a simple life.

Planning our route Alex has always been passionate about driving adventures so he started by listing all his dream destinations and then researching licensing, regulations and shipping to find out how feasible each were for us. From there, we simply joined the dots.

Starting in Perth, we drove along the WA coast to Darwin, then down through the Red Centre to Adelaide, on to Melbourne and finished our Australian leg in Sydney.

Then we backpacked through South East Asia as the van was getting shipped to North America. We crossed Canada and are travelling through the USA before heading south through Mexico and Central America. After that we’ll drive along the west coast of South America and up towards Brazil before we ship the van to Europe and Africa before finally sending it home to Australia.

Budgeting for the trip We extensively researched other couples doing overland trips and got a lot of information regarding costs from them.

It’s a general rule of thumb that you can drive pretty much anywhere you want for around US$100 a day (on average) and February / March 2017 Horizons 37

Transport

Under a starry sky in Kalbarri.

Funnily enough the only thing we would have changed was to prepare less. By that we mean we wouldn’t have worried so much about all the smaller details when preparing the car, which is time consuming and often frustrating. We were both working full-time during the two-anda-half years of preparation and this was at times overwhelming when all our spare time was put into developing our website, filming and working on the van. By the time we hit the road we were exhausted!

Our tips for the road

this will include fuel, accommodation, food, flights, shipping costs and visas.

Our main costs so far have been 25 per cent on fuel, 25 per cent on relocation costs (flights/shipping) and 15 per cent on insurance (health, travel and RAC Roadside Assistance).

Driving WA After setting out from Perth it took us an entire month to travel along the coast to Exmouth and through Karijini and the Kimberley to the Northern Territory border at Kununurra. Our favourite part of that leg of the trip was the Gibb River Road where we drove more than 1500km through the stunning Kimberley scenery of red rocky earth, hazy purple ranges and crystal clear rivers and waterfalls.

Some lesser known destinations that we really enjoyed were Sandy Cape, just

International driving permits and carnets Driving overseas When hiring or driving a vehicle (scooter, car, motorbike) overseas, there’s a good chance you’ll need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). An IDP carries your identification details in nine languages and allows you to drive overseas without further tests or applications. You can apply for an IDP for just $39 by visiting rac.com.au/idp.

38 Horizons February / March 2017

north of Jurien Bay (great four-wheel driving and fishing), the Cape Range National Park near Exmouth with its amazing gorges and views – it’s also close to Ningaloo Reef snorkelling spots – and the Leopold Downs Road just before Fitzroy Crossing, where we free-camped among the boab trees with a private, clear water pool at our doorstep.

While in WA we only had one problem on the road – our wheel bearing broke just after the Gibb River Road. We had a spare bearing but, unfortunately, didn’t have the right tool to install it. That’s when we called RAC, which offered to drop the right tool off to help us out. We managed to swap the bearings around with no further problems and were back on the road a few hours later.

Now that we’re on the road, would we have planned anything differently?

Taking your vehicle overseas If taking your vehicle (motorcycle or car) overseas for touring, you may require a carnet. This allows visitors to import vehicles for short periods into other countries to ensure greater ease of travel between international borders.

Find out more and apply for a carnet at rac.com.au/carnet.

Camping overseas If camping overseas, members are exclusively entitled to the Camping Card International (CCI), which is often required when staying at holiday parks. The CCI entitles you to discounted camping across

Our most important advice for anyone planning on driving through remote areas of WA or anywhere in the world would be to make sure you have spare tyres, recovery gear, a radio or GPS tracker to get out of tricky situations and to get your car checked by a trusted mechanic before you set off. Keep in touch and let people back home know where you are as often as possible. We also found that driving at 90km/h improved our fuel economy.

The WikiCamps app has been invaluable and helped us easily find places of interest, camping spots, free showers and barbecues. In terms of food, try to buy long-lasting fruit and vegetables such as eggplants, carrots, pumpkins and apples, as well as dried meats such as cacciatore to avoid high prices at local shops. Take more than enough water. But most importantly of all – just go for it. O Michaela and Alex plan to spend three years on the road before returning to Australia. As at 8 December 2016 they had driven more than 25,437 km and visited eight countries.

Europe and provides third-party liability cover for personal injury to you or damage to your property. The CCI costs $25 and is valid for 12 months. Find out more and apply for the CCI at rac.com.au/cci

Save overseas Before travelling internationally check the websites of automobile clubs in the countries you’re travelling to. Many offer reciprocal benefits and savings to Australian automobile club members.

Just ensure you have your RAC membership card with you. For more information contact RAC’s Touring team perthtouring@rac.com.au.

One year of free roadside assistance for young drivers That’s the power of membership RAC free2go Roadside Assistance gives 17-21 year olds one year of free Standard Roadside Assistance and up to two subsequent years half price*.

We have WA’s largest roadside assistance network and as an RAC member they’ll also get access to great benefits such as discounts on fuel, movie tickets, entertainment and much more.

Call 1300 654 284 or visit rac.com.au/youngdrivers *Depending on the age they join and provided they maintain continuous membership. Roadside Assistance service is provided by RAC Motoring P/L MRB 723.

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Treat your family to an unforgettable holiday in Australia’s South West at RAC Busselton Holiday Park

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Visit one of our Parks & Resorts » 3"$ Busselton » 3"$ $FSWBOUFT » 3"$ Exmouth » 3"$ Monkey Mia » Ningaloo Reef Resort

February / March 2017 Horizons 39

Domestic Travel Insurance For holidays within Australia Make sure you’re covered when you’re travelling away from home.

Comprehensive policies include: » Compensation for travel delay » New for old luggage replacement » Cancellation fees and lost deposits » 21 day cooling off period

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Call 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/travelinsurance This is general advice only. We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Please refer to the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision about this insurance. This insurance is issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd (Tokio Marine & Nichido) ABN 80 000 438 291, AFSL 246548. Its managing agent, Tokio Marine Management (Australasia) Pty. Ltd. ABN 69 004 488 455 (TMMA) is authorised to act on behalf of Tokio Marine & Nichido to issue its policies and handle and settle claims in relation to those policies, subject to the terms of the authority. ^Children & Grandchildren are covered at no extra cost, provided they do not require a medical assessment.

News and information for travellers

Travel brief 2016 RAC President’s Cruise

Explore Broome and the East Kimberley

Former RAC President Esme Bowen recounts last year’s President’s Cruise attended by RAC members.

The Kimberley is one of Western Australia’s favourite destinations and here are our top highlights: O Take a scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles O Stay at the authentic El Questro and see the Zebedee Springs O Explore natural delights such as Lake Argyle, Emma Gorge and Piccaninny Creek O See Indigenous art galleries, Cathedral Gorge and take a tour of Argyle Diamond Mine.

RAC Travel partner Broome, Kimberley & Beyond offers a variety of value packages to Broome, East Kimberley and Kununurra.

Plus, members receive free airport transfers. To find out more, visit rac.com.au/travel or call RAC Travel on 1300 655 179.

The 2016 RAC President’s Cruise started in Athens on 25 September 2016 with the 31 RAC members all arriving at a centrally located hotel after flying in with Qatar Airways from Perth and many other parts of the world.

The group was a terrific bunch of RAC members.

RAC Executive Manager for Travel and Tourism, Mike Leary, along with my husband Wayne and I, hosted the 14-day guided holiday through Greece and Dalmatia.

After a day of exploring Athens with the Acropolis as the highlight, we sailed from Piraeus on Voyages to Antiquity’s Aegean Odyssey, a ship that carrries 300 passengers and staff.

Our journey took us through the Greek towns of Gythion, Katakolon, Ithaca and Corfu onto the Albanian Riviera. The VTA comprehensive touring program took us to UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites where we learnt about Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman and French history from expert local guides.

We stopped in spectacular Kotor Bay in Montenegro, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, before continuing on to Croatia.

In Dubrovnik, one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, we explored the city on a walking tour.

From there we docked at the historic city of Split where we toured the ancient Diocletian Palace dating back to AD 305. Our final Croatian stop was Zadar

CAMPS9 guidebook coming soon

New Zealand for solo travellers If you’re a single traveller looking for the convenience, company and value of travelling in a group and are keen to visit the ‘land of the long white cloud’, New Zealand coach touring specialist Grand Pacific Tours offers dedicated tours for solo travellers.

RAC Travel’s 2017 special departure is the 16day Highlights tour departing 5 November 2017.

For more information or to register your interest email travel@rac.com.au or call RAC Travel 1300 655 898 (email preferred).

CAMPS9 is the ultimate guidebook for free and budgetfriendly camping throughout Australia.

The latest in Camps Australia Wide’s highly respected range, CAMPS9 features over 4000 listings, free camps, community campsites, showgrounds, station stays, national and state parks, as well as pet-friendly sites.

On sale soon via rac.com.au/shop and in our branches – RAC members pay just $51 – a saving of 15 per cent.

before we sailed to the Italian city of Ravenna – home to eight UNESCO World Heritage sites On the final morning of the 1177 nautical-mile cruise, there was a flurry of well-organised activity as we disembarked the Aegean Odyssey in Venice. That day the group enjoyed the unique artistic and architectural achievement that is Venice.

It has been my great privilege as President to host these cruises, and especially to spend extended time with some of our loyal and supportive RAC members.

February / March 2017 Horizons 41

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Visit your local RAC Travel & Cruise centre

Store locations » Applecross 6150 6459 » Carousel 9365 4700 » Joondalup 9308 1600

» Mandurah 9512 8200 » Midland 6150 6468 » Morley 6466 2300 » West Perth 9436 4830

Travel

Words Sue Wallace

The right rhythm Things are changing fast in Cuba but if you’re quick you can still experience time travel in Havana and beyond. From salsa in the streets to balmy Caribbean landscapes, there’s simply so much to discover.

W

andering along the cobblestone streets of old Havana is a little like stepping into a time warp as jelly-bean coloured American vintage cars cruise by and grand old buildings, many decaying gracefully, command attention.

Salsa music blares from lively bars on street corners and chances are you won’t pass by without hearing the patriotic Cuban song Guantanamera, all about a peasant girl from Guantánamo.

Washing is strung across flower-decked balconies and teenage boys play soccer in

the street and swap baseball cards, while young girls practise dance steps and middle-aged women sit in the sun with their hair in rollers.

That’s a snapshot of first impressions of Havana, which is rapidly changing as American tourists start to head to Cuba on mass following the relaxation of travel restrictions last year. The island is poised to change further following Fidel Castro’s death in 2016.

Up to 100 flights a day and many cruise ships are delivering Americans to the largest Caribbean island that, at best, has a creaking tourist infrastructure. The

good news about these new flights is that airfares have started to tumble – a bonus for Australian travellers.

Time tavel So why visit this country? Part of the appeal is that it’s a place where time has stood still for the past 50 years. Include the colourful culture, people, landscape and infectious music and it just gets under your skin.

Our guide Silvie says: “Cuba is changing but we are hopeful it will be for the better; preserving all we love about it – yes, there are those who are just after quick money, February / March 2017 Horizons 43

Travel

but most just want to see our country catch up with the rest of the world.”

Silvie shares much about everyday Cuban life. Here everyone receives a ration card, doctors earn just $60 a month and tourist guides, often university graduates, can take home twice as much.

Place of icons There are tributes to the past, too – revered revolutionist Che Guevara’s suave looks are emblazoned on everything from posters, shopping bags, t-shirts and key rings.

Late American author Ernest Hemingway is another icon associated with Cuba – he penned For Whom the Bell Tolls and The Old Man and the Sea when 44 Horizons February / March 2017

he lived here on and off from 1939 to 1960. Hemingway’s two favourite watering holes, Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio, are shrines to the writer who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954. Copies of his works are sold from sidewalk book vendors under shady trees in Plaza de Armas and I join the crowd.

“How much?” I ask.

“Americano?” the book seller quizzes me, quoting a ridiculous price that drops dramatically when I set him straight.

“Ah Americanos – they have so much money and they tip big,” he adds with a smile, handing over the book without any tip in sight.

A great way to see Havana in all its glory is a vintage car tour, but be sure

It’s in our genes, Cubans start dancing as soon as we can walk…

Australians maybe not!

Travel

to negotiate a price before you step back in time in, perhaps, a lollipop-pink 1950s Buick.

The vintage cars cruise through the suburbs leaving behind the famous seaskirted Malecon that stretches for 8km.

Make a stop at the historic Hotel National where tense scenes were played out between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cuban Missile crisis of 1962 – a small museum here captures the drama.

Visit Revolution Square, which has been the scene of huge political rallies for years, and the Museum of the Revolution, which traces the struggle of the Cuban people to gain sovereignty over their own island.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Museum of Fine Arts and there are many

galleries in old Havana as well as eclectic street art at Callejon Hamel, a two-block alley, famous for its murals, sculptures and mosaic tiled-walls.

Drop into the famous Partagas cigar factory that is the oldest in Havana and located in a beautiful colonial building.

Later, buy an ice cream from the government subsidised ice cream parlour chain, Coppelia, and sit in Plaza de la Catedral or Plaza Vieja and people watch.

As for the music, Havana is one place where there really is dancing in the street and no one minds. Head to La Casa de la Musica and Teatro Bertolt Brecht, for great music. Cabaret shows are performed at the famed Tropicana

Visa essentials How do you get a visa for Cuba?

Tourist visas can be obtained from the Embassy of Cuba – phone (02) 62868770 or go online to cubadiplomatica.cu.

How long does it take?

Mail applications can take between 7–10 working days or up to two days if applying in person.

What sort of information is required?

For mail applications a valid passport, copy of an airline ticket with entry and return dates, consular fee and a selfaddressed secure envelope.

February / March 2017 Horizons 45

Travel

Fast facts

How to get there Fly from Perth to Los Angeles or Dallas/ Fort Worth with connections to Miami and Havana. Cruises operate from US ports to Cuba.

Tour: Operators Intrepid; Peregrine and G Adventures offer tours of Cuba – speak to RAC Travel for more.

and there is plenty of street music with hip youngsters jamming away and old hipsters showing their style.

Explore beyond Havana Venture out of the city for sun and fun at the swish beach resorts and spas of Varadero, 145km from Havana, set on white sand framed by azure water.

Or for an authentic Cuban experience head to Vinales about 182km from Havana, home to spectacular scenery and tobacco farms. Stay in a brightly coloured guesthouse with rocking chairs on the porch and watch locals pass by on oxen-driven carts.

Tour operators such as G Adventures, Intrepid and Peregrine offer various regional journeys as well as diving, cycling and sailing trips around the islands. You can also travel independently by bus or hire a driver.

46 Horizons February / March 2017

Highlights include Cienfuegos, known as the Pearl of the South, with its colonial centre and Parisian-style boulevards, vibrant Trinidad with its coloured houses, Voodoo religion and folklore concerts.

Camaguey – Cuba’s third largest city and home of the Ballet de Camaguey has historic winding streets to deliberately disorient invaders and confuse tourists.

For views over Guantanamo Naval Base stop at the Mirador de Malones and before heading to Santiago de Cuba, which is home to son music, a mix of Spanish guitar and African percussion.

Then relax for a few days at Baracoa, a coastal area with rainforest and waterfalls at Humboldt National Park surrounded by mountains and good beaches.

Feel the rhythm Be sure to save some time for a dance class – after all, Cuba is the home of the salsa, cha cha, mambo and rumba – and, all music that really does make you feel like dancing.

Our instructor, Danny tells us Cubans are born with rhythm.

“It’s in our genes, Cubans start dancing as soon as we can walk,” he shouts as we try to keep up with him. “Australians maybe not,” he laughs as we struggle with the basic steps.

Cuba definitely has a beat of its own that it is willing to share with all who visit and yes it’s easy to fall under its spell, even though change is in the wind.

As for that song Guantanamera – every time I hear it I think “ahhh Cuba” and want to return. O

Cruise: MSC Opera is based out of Cuba.

Plus, CMV, Scenic Eclipse, Viking Oceans and Silversea have ports of call in Cuba.

Stay: Casa particulares or home stays are available throughout Cuba. In the country these are usually one basic room with small en suites; in the cities the accommodation is a bit more sophisticated. Breakfast features fresh fruit juice, eggs, ham and fruit.

Getting around Intrepid, G Adventures and Peregrine offer bus trips and day excursions. In cities jump aboard yellow Coco taxis, hail a vintage American car or hop aboard a tuktuk. In regional areas taxis, motorbikes and buses are available.

Best way to pay Don’t rely on one credit card and take euros. ATMs can be scarce. Cuba has two currencies, the CUC for tourists and national peso MN for locals.

What to pack Light clothes, dancing shoes if you want to learn salsa, mosquito repellent and sunscreen. Locals in regional areas appreciate gifts of soap and shampoo.

Best time to travel November to April is a good time, with December the best month.

Internet and mobile Internet can be patchy and slow.

Purchase internet access cards and find WiFi hotspots in hotels in Havana to connect. In regional areas main squares usually have WiFi hotspots.

Buy a local phone card.

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Travel

Gear up for outdoor adventure The 2017 RAC Perth Caravan & Camping Show This year’s RAC Perth Caravan & Camping Show is on from 22–26 March at Claremont Showground, showcasing a huge display of caravans, campertrailers, caravan and camping services and equipment. There will also be information

about WA caravan parks and great holiday destinations around the state.

A caravan or camping holiday allows you to truly immerse yourself in the region you’re visiting and its natural surroundings. These types of holidays

Save on show entry!

RAC members save 10% on admission and children under 16 get in for free. To pre-purchase tickets visit: caravanand campingshow.com.au

Take to the sky with virtual reality. Make sure you visit the RAC stand at the show and jump on board the RAC Rescue Experience. Using virtual reality technology, you will be taken on a four-minute, 360-degree mission on one of the RAC Rescue helicopters. From taking flight through to the patient being delivered to hospital – you’ll be there every step of the way.

offer an experience many would say is beyond compare, and Australian campers and caravanners continue to hit the road in record numbers.

In Western Australian, caravan registrations grew 4.6 per cent in the year to 31 January 2016, compared with the same period the previous year. Highlighting our love for hitting the open road is the fact that the Mandurah region had the highest combined number of caravan and campervan registrations in all of Australia.

Innovative caravan and camping equipment and wonder-gadgets are constantly being released that make life on the road easier and more comfortable, and some recent innovations take outdoor adventure to a whole new level.

This year’s RAC Perth Caravan & Camping Show will showcase the latest gear, as well as providing newcomers to caravanning and camping with everything they need to get started.

Exhibitors at the show will include caravan and camper-trailer manufacturers, holiday park operators from around the state and a range of camping and caravan equipment and accessory suppliers.

Visit the RAC stand to take advantage of exclusive show specials. More details are online at rac.com.au/sponsorship.

February / March 2017 Horizons 49

Travel RAC members save 50% on a range of park passes from the Department of Parks and Wildlife.

Visit rac.com.au/ parkpasses.

RAC Parks and Resorts RAC’s five parks and resorts offer members quality, value for money accommodation, including camping and caravanning facilities, in iconic locations along WA’s pristine coastline.

RAC members can save up to 20 per cent off caravan and camping sites at all RAC Parks and Resorts. Choose from RAC Cervantes Holiday Park, RAC Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Ningaloo Reef Resort, RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park and RAC Busselton Holiday Park.

Feel at home in our national parks Western Australia has almost endless options for people wanting to explore the state on a camping or caravanning holiday, with more than 100 campgrounds located in national parks and reserves.

In 2015–16 there were 19.6 million visits to Department of Parks and Wildlifemanaged national parks and reserves, an increase of more than four million visits compared with 2010–11.

In the past year campgrounds have been established or upgraded at Potters Gorge in Wellington National Park near Collie, Big Lagoon in Francois Peron National Park near Denham, Gnaala Mia

Our check list of essentials you should take on a long drive: two spark plugs spare tyre, wheel brace and the jack tyre pump and tyre pressure gauge fan belt, plus top and bottom radiator hoses tow rope trouble lamp and/or torch plus spare batteries small shovel and axe first aid kit large containers of water small toolkit jumper leads mobile phone and charging cables road maps.

RAC can help guide your next adventure. Find free self-drive itineraries at rac.com.au/ greatdrives.

Member save up to 15% off a variety of maps and guides year-round.

50 Horizons February / March 2017

Source: WA Caravan and camping visitor snapshot, 2015

Keeping your gear safe

Visit parksandresorts.rac.com.au.

Stay safe on the road

The South West was the most popular region for domestic caravan and camping holidays, attracting 43% of caravaners. The Coral Coast the second most popular, attracting 22%.

at Dryandra Woodland National Park near Williams, and Lucky Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance.

Other popular campgrounds in national parks include Lane Poole Reserve near Dwellingup, Osprey and Kurrajong in Cape Range National Park, Logue Brook near Harvey, Karijini Eco Retreat and Dales in Karijini National Park and the Conto camp ground in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park near Margaret River.

Many of these campgrounds can be booked online. To find out more, and for advance bookings, visit parkstay.dpaw.wa.gov.au.

61%

of caravanners and campers engage in outdoor or nature based activities compared with 35% of other holiday makers.

Source: WA caravan and camping visitor snapshot, 2015

Making new friends in campgrounds is one of the pleasures of taking a camping or caravanning holiday.

While campgrounds are generally safe, RAC Home Claims Manager Glen Walker reminds members to be cautious with camping equipment and other property.

“Whilst there always seems to be a long checklist when it comes to packing up the four-wheel drive or family car, it’s also important to make sure that valuables are protected when embarking on your next camping trip.”

Some of the most common items stolen from camping and caravan sites include mobile phones, wallets, bicycles, eskys, fishing gear, towballs and roof-racks.

To help keep your gear safe, RAC Insurance recommends you leave anything of high value that isn’t essential for your trip at home and lock-up whatever you can at your campsite.

Plus, it’s a good idea to introduce yourself to your neighbours. Just as when you’re away from home, your campground neighbours can help keep an eye on your site when you’re not around.

For more tips on keeping your gear safe see page 62.

February / March 2017 Horizons 51

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Our new gateway: airport upgrades explained

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Over the next five years further development is planned, including a multi-storey car park, a new international terminal and a new runway.

The airport forecasts that more than 28 million passengers will be using the gateway within the next 20 years. Over that time the whole site will continue to be transformed and further developed.

New access roads connect both airport sites with Airport Drive, a primary access road into the Terminal 1 and 2 precincts, connected to the ‘Grand Gateway’ interchange.

The new interchange at Tonkin Highway/Dunreath Drive also provides access to Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.

The redevelopment has seen some services shift operations to new terminals. Terminal 1 remains the site for all international flights as well as all interstate Virgin Australia flights and some Virgin Australia regional services.

For passengers needing to transfer between terminals, there is a free terminal transfer bus that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is a 15-minute ride each way.

LEACH

Perth Airport’s $1 billion redevelopment has further blurred the lines between the old ‘domestic’ and ‘international’ airport split as the area slowly moves towards Parking entry consolidating into one Long termairport car park bus stopprecinct.

HWY

KEY

TO ROE HWY

Always check with your travel agent or airline reservation, but as a guide: Terminal 1 (T1) O International – All international services O Domestic – Virgin Australia (all interstate and some regional services) Terminal 2 (T2) Domestic O Alliance Airlines O Tigerair (interstate services) O Virgin Australia (most regional services) O Regional Express Airlines Terminal 3 (T3) Domestic O Jetstar (domestic services) O Qantas (some services) Terminal 4 (T4) Domestic O Qantas (interstate and some regional services).

February / March 2017 Horizons 53

Test drive Alex Forrest reviews the latest cars on our roads.

Subaru Levorg

A

mong connoisseurs, one of the most iconic Subarus is the Liberty RS Turbo wagon sold in Australia in the early 1990s.

It offered cool wagon practicality with levels of performance and grip that were previously unheard of in this type of vehicle. It was a minor sensation – until the WRX arrived in 1994.

More recently, there was the Liberty GT, which ceased production in 2009, after which Subaru heard many yearnings from enthusiasts to bring back a modern iteration of their beloved small sporty wagon recipe.

Well, Subaru has returned to the niche with the Levorg.

It’s based on the chassis and running gear of the current 54 Horizons February / March 2017

WRX, with some changes under the skin.

That means it comes with the same 197kW/350Nm engine as that in the WRX, although in the Levorg only the continuously variable transmission (CVT) is available. The six-speeder from the WRX isn’t an option.

With the limited number of manual vehicles currently being sold in Australia, Subaru reckons the lack of a manual in the Levorg won’t be an issue for most buyers.

Plus, the CVT in the Levorg is more intuitive and sporty than you would typically expect of this type of ‘box. It’s absolutely one of the best CVTs we’ve driven.

Not surprisingly, the Levorg does safety very well, most notably in that its Eyesight

Subaru Levorg specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

driver assistance technology is standard across the range.

All variants get the maximum 5 stars from ANCAP. Now, the Levorg is not named after a mythical Japanese monster. It’s a somewhat awkward portmanteau derived from the words LEgacy, reVOlution and touRinG. However, that’s the only awkward aspect of the Levorg.

It’s an unusual but highly engaging mix of utility, compact

from $48,161 drive away 2.0-litre turbo petrol 197kW @ 5600rpm 350Nm @ 2400–5200rpm 8.7L/100km 201g/km +++++

size and sporting intent.

The Levorg is not alone in this respect though. Its closest competitor is the Skoda Octavia RS wagon, which although front-wheel drive only, is indeed available with a six-speed manual. It also sounds better.

The Levorg comes in three model grades, although the top-of-the-range Spec B variant comprises a number of locally fitted bits such as a different gear knob and spoilers. O

Test drive It has most of the environmental credentials of the Prius ... however, it looks like a regular Corolla.

For more car reviews, visit rac.com.au/carreviews

Toyota Corolla Hybrid

H

ybrid vehicles, as you’ll have noticed, have a habit of standing out.

For those who want the fuel efficiency, low CO2 outputs and quiet low-speed running of a hybrid but NOT the notoriety, this is a problem.

This is where the Toyota Corolla Hybrid comes in. It has most of the environmental credentials of the Prius because it has that vehicle’s running gear, however, it looks like a regular Corolla – unless you order the optional metallic orange paint.

The other advantage of the Corolla Hybrid is, as a small hatchback it does a similar job to the Prius, but is significantly cheaper: it costs $31,030 drive away, compared with the Prius at $39,880. Although in the ADR test, the Corolla Hybrid does use

slightly more fuel than the Prius, which needs 3.4L/100km versus the Corolla Hybrid’s 4.1L/100km.

Then again, a regular petrol Corolla uses 6.1L/100km.

The Corolla Hybrid comes well equipped, with its specification equivalent to that of the rangetopping ZR in the regular Corolla range. That means you get extra fruit such as dual-zone climate control, LED headlights and keyless entry and ignition.

Other extra gear includes sat nav and Toyota Link, which is Toyota’s system for connecting the car to users’ smartphones so they can more easily and safely access features like Pandora radio, weather updates and more.

On the road, compared with a regular Corolla, the Hybrid is more sprightly away from standstill thanks to the electric

Toyota Corolla Hybrid specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

from $31,030 drive away 1.8-litre petrol with electric hybrid 73kW @ 5200rpm (petrol engine only) 142Nm @ 4000rpm (petrol engine only) 4.1L/100km 96g/km +++++

component of its drive system.

Also unique in the Corolla Hybrid is its double-wishbone independent rear suspension, which was utilised to allow the fitment of the hybrid system’s battery under the back seat. In turn, that allowed the boot space in the hybrid to remain the same as in the regular Corolla.

Almost 20 years after Toyota first introduced the Prius, we now have most of the Prius’s

hybrid benefits in Toyota’s evergreen small car.

Although hybrids have traditionally been slow sellers, small cars are among the biggest-selling vehicle categories in Australia, so we’ll be particularly interested to see how this one goes.

With its keen price, high specification and low running costs, we think the Corolla Hybrid deserves to do well. O February / March 2017 Horizons 55

Test drive

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Night

T

here are some varied personalities within the Jeep Grand Cherokee line-up.

One is the Laredo 4x4 variant with its VM Motori 3.0-litre V6 diesel. With 550Nm of torque from only 1800rpm, it can idle up a ridge as easily as you could fall down it.

The SRT is a different beast.

It runs on 20-inch low profile tyres, has a 6.4-litre V8 and a reduced towing capacity compared with the diesel and 5.7-litre V8 versions.

The SRT has sacrificed some of its four-wheel drive abilities in exchange for the sort of on-road go that puts a lot of performance cars to shame, while retaining its brutish off-roader looks.

You’ll have to step up a 56 Horizons February / March 2017

couple of price echelons to find similar offerings from the Europeans, such as the Range Rover Sport SVR, BMW X5 M and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S. This year, Jeep launched the Grand Cherokee SRT Night. It has the same performance as the regular SRT, but with more attitude – as if that was needed.

At $97,000 plus on roads, it’s not for everyone, but it is nearly $100,000 less than the cheapest of the Euros.

The idea of the SRT Night is to offer a number of customisation features direct from the factory, all along the lines of a “stealth-like black appearance”, however we reckon all this attitude makes it stand out even more.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Night specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

As you’d expect with 344kW on hand, the SRT’s acceleration was impressive, but the area where it really surprised was in its handling.

On a closed circuit, the 2.3-tonne SRT had far more grip and handling balance than we expected. It actually handled quite neutrally.

Of course, it would be remiss not to mention the reliability and recall issues many

from $97,000 plus on roads 6.4-litre petrol V8 344kW @ 6250rpm 624Nm @4100rpm 14L/100km 328g/km +++++

customers have experienced with the Grand Cherokee.

We’d advise consumers to check for recent recalls and with other recent customers on their experiences.

In terms of all-round ability, we’d recommend one of the diesel variants, but if nothing but a thirsty, rowdy V8 fourwheel drive is going to do it for you, the Grand Cherokee SRT Night is your starting point O

Test drive With this car, it’s abundantly clear Kia is serious about pinching sales from competitors.

For more car reviews, visit rac.com.au/carreviews

Kia Cerato S

I

n Western Australia, sales of small cars are going against the tide.

Overall, new car sales in WA are in decline, but sales of small cars and mid-sized SUVs continue to increase, albeit at a slower rate than they have previously.

Competition in this part of the market is brutal, and right at its entry point is Kia’s small car, the Cerato. With this car, it’s abundantly clear Kia is serious about pinching sales from competitors.

Firstly, Kia gave the entrylevel Cerato S a good suite of safety features, such as six airbags and advanced seat belt reminders, which helps it achieve a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

The Cerato comes in four

model grades, comprising the S, S Premium, Si and the SLi. It’s only available with a 2.0-litre petrol, which makes 112kW and 192Nm. A rear camera in the base model will require an extra $500 for an option pack, which adds a seven-inch touch screen, dusk-sensing headlights and an Android Auto connection. Apple CarPlay® is also available.

The Cerato S with this option pack is the real value king here. Blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert comes with the Si model. The SLi adds daytime running lights and lane departure warning. It also gets forward collision warning, which means it’ll beep and flash lights, but it won’t actually brake for you.

Kia Cerato S specifications Price Engine Power Torque Claimed fuel economy CO 2 emissions ANCAP safety rating

Next, although the previous model already had locally tuned suspension, it went in for some more revisions, with tweaks to the front springs and damper valving and the electric power steering has been upgraded.

Kia also gave it a very sharp price ($19,990 at launch, including auto), and applied the brand’s unique sevenyear warranty. We still believe there is no better indicator of a

from $19,990 plus on roads 2.0-litre petrol 112kW @ 6200rpm 192Nm @ 4000rpm 7.1L/100km (manual and auto) 169/168g/km (manual/auto) +++++

brand’s confidence in its product than a lengthy warranty period.

The upgraded interior does make it more refined than you’d expect for an entry-level small car and the changes are definitely noticeable.

The Cerato is a good example of what happens when a carmaker enters a super competitive market with ambitions to take a bigger slice of it: the consumer wins. O February / March 2017 Horizons 57

How do I decide where to go to get fitted with hearing aids? for programming hearing aids and measuring their efficacy. That’s why you should choose your audiologist and hearing aid company before you choose your hearing aid - the performance of your hearing aids is only as good as the person fitting them;

There is so much advertising about hearing aids at the moment that it can be very difficult to know what is the best option. Below is some information that you need to know to help you decide.

•

Most hearing aid providers are the retail front-end of a manufacturer. That means that you are going to be fitted with their hearing aid brand, whether it is the most suitable for your hearing loss or not;

• When you purchase hearing aids, you are forming an ongoing relationship with the hearing services provider. Hearing aids require ongoing maintenance – it is important that you feel confident in the level of service and care you receive from the hearing service provider; Brad Hutchinson Hearing provides an unrivalled quality of service and care;

Brad Hutchinson Hearing is an independent WA family owned company where we choose from any manufacturer and fit you with the best option for your hearing loss; •

Hearing aids are not off-the-shelf devices. You need to be very confident in the skill of the person programming your hearing aids. Check that they are University trained Audiologists. Then make sure they are using the latest technology;

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You need to be able to trial hearing aids to ensure they are right for you;

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Give us a call on 9228 9928 to make a booking with one of our university trained audiologists. (See Advert on p15)

Brad Hutchinson Hearing offers obligation free 2 week trials so that we have to prove to you that our hearing aids work before you decide to purchase them.

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Offers are for new bookings only and cannot be transferred, exchanged or redeemed for cash. Flights must be booked by TasVacations. Offers may be withdrawn at any time.

58 Horizons February / March 2017

What’s new

The latest news from the motoring world

Carwash confusion

A

50 for 360

utonomous vehicle technology will continue to become more sophisticated and commonplace in our everyday cars. However, there are still some issues, including an unanticipated one that saw the advanced sensing technology in some new cars getting completely confused by automatic car washes. In fact, the International Car Wash Association has announced an initiative to address these types of emerging vehicle technologies. The group said examples include collision avoidance systems that mistake car wash equipment for road hazards, and computer-controlled transmissions that don’t allow a vehicle to roll on an everyday car wash conveyor.

Honda cars have been sold in Australia since 1965, starting with the S600 sports car. However, what really gave the brand a boost was the introduction of the N360, or Scamp as it was known here, in 1968. The tiny car was first sold in Japan in March 1967, so this year marks its 50th anniversary. With its air-cooled, 354cc four-stroke two-cylinder engine, the N360 laid the foundations for Honda’s worldwide car business. Many Australians will remember the sportier Z360, which arrived soon after the N360 and starred in the 1986 movie Malcolm, in which it famously split in half.

Mini bright spark

Merc ute unveiled

A not-so-small Mini called the Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 has been launched as a plug-in hybrid. The car is propelled by a three-cylinder petrol engine and a lithium battery-powered electric motor. Mini’s parent company, BMW Group, said the two drive systems combined can produce up to 165kW and 385Nm, and in electric mode only, the all-wheel drive hybrid Countryman has a range of up to 40km. Cleverly, the car’s ‘save battery’ mode can be selected to raise the charge state of the high-voltage battery to at least 90 per cent, so sufficient electrical power remains for emissions-free urban driving later on.

Mercedes-Benz has released images of its new ute, the X-Class, with the production version expected to be launched later this year. The vehicle will have a ladder frame and a V6 engine in the top model, but don’t expect it to look quite as aggressive as it does here. X-Class models for the Australian market will be built in Spain. The new Merc ute will be based on the underpinnings of the Nissan Navara as part of a joint venture between Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

February / March 2017 Horizons 59

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*Pricing is per person based on RAC member discount, twin share of a Gold Service Twin Cabin, Low Season Special Offer Fares. Receive up to four nights per couple free accommodation based on travel Indian Pacific Perth to Sydney or vice versa, Perth to Adelaide or vice versa and travel Adelaide to Darwin or vice versa on The Ghan. Offer does not apply to travel on The Ghan Expedition. Offer applies to Special Offer Fares only. For new bookings from 09 January 2017 until 31 March 2017. Travel in Shoulder or Low seasons only. Offer is subject to availability and may not be available on the first date requested. Block out dates apply to rail and hotels and special event surcharges apply to some hotel periods. Please refer to www.greatsouthernrail.com.au for details of current rail block outs and hotel special event block outs and surcharge periods. Offer applies to selected hotels only. Full payment required within 14 days of booking. 100% cancellation fees apply 14 days after booking date and the fare is non-transferable. No amendments allowed. Booking and credit card fees may apply. Not available with any other offer. For general terms, booking and travel conditions please visit www.greatsouthernrail.com.au ATAS A11591 04952CDBD 1216

60 Horizons February / March 2017

Ask the car doctor

Our experts answer your questions

You can be a winner If your question is published you will receive a copy of the UBD Gregory’s 2017 Perth and Surrounds Street Directory from RAC Travel, which includes new streets and suburbs, petrol station locations and more.

See page 81 for terms and conditions of entry.

Send your questions to:

Q

My silver BA 2005 Falcon is starting to look dull and blotchy and there are areas on the bonnet and roof that look like water stains. I cannot polish or buff these out. I normally use wash and wax products when I clean my car. My friend’s cars also seem to show similar symptoms, even with paint peeling off in patches. How should I look after my exterior paintwork so the vehicle keeps its ‘as new’ look?

David, Cooloongup

A:

Wash your vehicle at least once a month and keep treating the panel work with a good brand of UV-resistant wax and polish. Keep the vehicle under cover and away from UV light and weather extremes as much as possible. Do not park your vehicle under trees that produce sap (this mostly applies to Australian native flora) or plants that attract a lot of birds.

If the vehicle is exposed to salt

water, salt air, mud or red dirt, wash and polish it as soon as you can, or at least give it a rinse down with clean, fresh water.

Q

We all know that tyre pressure should be measured when tyres are cold.

But unless you live next door to a service station, you need to drive some distance (in my case about 10km) to reach the service station. Are the tyres warmed up by then? What driving distance is considered OK to maintain cold tyre pressure? Or, how long do you need to wait until the tyres have cooled down?

Lau, Bunbury

A:

The recommended inflation pressure refers to the cold tyres, if possible. Tyres are considered cold when the vehicle has been parked for three hours or more, or if the vehicle has been driven less than 1.6km at moderate speed.

If you would like to test your

tyre pressure when they are cold but you happen to live more than 1.6km from a service station, you could buy your own tyre pressure-monitoring gauge from reputable automotive parts retailers.

Q

We are considering the purchase of a new VF Commodore that we plan to keep for between eight to 10 years. Will the availability of parts become an issue while we own the vehicle?

Joy, South Perth

A: Manufacturers will generally keep commonly required parts for their vehicles beyond a 10-year period. When the vehicle becomes older than 10 years, parts may become more difficult to obtain for low production models. However, as the VF Commodore is quite a popular vehicle, we do not envisage parts availability being a problem for you during the period you plan to own the car.

The Car Doctor RAC Horizons GPO Box C140 Perth WA 6839 or email: editor@rac.com.au Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number with your query. If your question is chosen for publication, please allow up to eight weeks for delivery.

Contact

US If you have a motoring question, don’t forget that RAC members can take advantage of our Motoring Advice Line.

Call 13 17 03 Monday to Friday between 9am and 4.30pm to speak to one of our experts.

February / March 2017 Horizons 61

Member Lounge People, places, prizes and RAC news

The average cost of camping equipment owned by a family of two adults and two children who take part in camping activities is $3786. For families who own top-of-therange camping items the average cost is around $12,000.

Source: Sum Insured data

How to remain a happy camper Australians took a total of 11.6 million caravanning and camping trips for the year ending June 2016 – up 13 per cent on 2015 – which is the highest recorded annual growth to date, according to the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA).

While it can be an extremely cost-effective family holiday, the financial outlay for caravan and camping equipment can be substantial. The CIAA reported that caravanning and camping enthusiasts in Australia spend about $7 billion annually.

As there are many pieces of equipment and accessories used for holidays in the great outdoors, RAC’s Home Claims Manager Glen Walker advises caravan and 62 Horizons February / March 2017

camping holidaymakers to think about the total value of their gear and to consider insuring it.

“The many gadgets and camping equipment we take with us does add up.

Unfortunately, thieves can take advantage.

Over the summer period, busy caravan and camping sites allow criminals to scan and snatch valuable items that are visible and within reach, even in broad daylight.”

Here are some tips to help keep your gear safe: O Use chains and padlocks for large items, such as portable fridges or barbecues.

O Consider engraving items, such as bicycles, with your driver’s licence number.

O Keep higher-value items locked in your car when not in use and at night.

O Never leave your site unattended with portable items in sight.

Most caravan insurance policies provide limited contents cover for theft or damage to contents kept inside.

If you’re camping, or to make sure you have enough cover for higher-value contents items, you may want to add specified personal valuables cover to your home insurance policy.

Find out more at rac.com.au/insurance.

Member Lounge

Personal alert system for added security WA has an ageing population, with 13 per cent of the population being 65 years or older, and that figure is set to increase over the next decade. This means more demand for services designed to assist people who wish to stay in their own home and maintain independence for as long as possible.

My classic car To celebrate the launch of RAC Classic Car Insurance, we asked RAC staff to share stories about their own classic cars.

RAC’s Robert Mawson tells us about his 1929 Model A Ford Phaeton.

“I loved old cars so I went to a car show looking for one for sale. I was talking to a car owner there who knew of a Model A Ford at another classic car owner’s house. We swapped numbers and I received a call that night from the owner of what would become my Model A. “When I went to look at the vehicle, it was in the corner of the shed surrounded by junk and had not been touched for more than three years. I purchased it and took it home for restoration.

“This Model A is known as a 35A and was built in Canada by Ford. Being part of the Commonwealth, import costs to Australia were cheaper at the time. This is a factory right-hand-drive-built car.

“I joined the Model A Ford Restorers Club of WA and went to club meetings with my camera to get ideas from other cars and information from owners.

“It took me three years to build the car from the ground up. When it was finished and licensed I was able to go for drives and experience a totally different world of motoring pleasure.

“When driving a car like this you are in the public spotlight and everyone waves, points at you and takes photos.

Every time I stop somewhere, someone will come and talk to me about the old car that their grandparents owned and share their memories.”

Find out more about RAC Classic Car Insurance at rac.com.au/classiccar.

As part of RAC’s home security range, members can have a personal alert system installed to provide emergency help.

New technologies have contributed towards a discreet, lightweight system that uses wireless technology, eliminating the need for a phone line. The device consists of a pendant and a counter top unit. The pendant can be worn under clothing as a necklace and is waterproof.

If help is needed, by pressing the button any time of the day or night, RAC monitoring emergency response centre staff will be alerted.

They can then contact any emergency services needed, along with personal emergency contacts.

Being monitored by a specialised service provider ensures you’ll always have someone trained and ready to answer your call for help.

If you’d like to find out more about the personal alert system, call RAC Security on 1300 132 735 or enquire online at rac.com.au/ security.

February / March 2017 Horizons 63

Member Lounge

style. Tread depth has a significant effect on your car’s braking ability. At 3mm of tread your tyres are 80 per cent worn, which can have a significant impact on braking and handling.

To get the most out of your tyres you should ensure they have enough tread (grip). The tread depth of a new tyre is typically 8mm. The Australian legal minimum is 1.6mm, however, we recommend changing your tyres when the depth reaches 3mm.

Make sure your tyres are properly inflated to ensure maximum contact with the road. It also helps extend the life of your tyres by avoiding uneven wear.

RAC Tyres offers a mobile tyre service that will come to you at your home or workplace within the Perth metro area.

Is your car ready for your next driving holiday?

Car battery There are many factors that may contribute to your battery going flat: O Short daily trips that may not allow enough charge to be returned to your battery to keep it fully charged.

O Going away for extended periods, resulting in your battery discharging.

O A vehicle drain that you may not be aware of.

If you do need to replace your battery RAC Batteries can deliver a new battery 24/7, which you can either install yourself or one of our experts can do it for you.

Tyres Tyres have an average lifespan of 40,000 to 60,000km, depending on the rubber compound in the tyre and your driving

Join the beachside celebrations The recently redeveloped RAC Cervantes Holiday Park will celebrate its official opening on Saturday 18 February.

Members are invited to the beachfront holiday park to be part of the re-launch with a day of leisure activities planned. There will be games and entertainment for the kids, water-based activities and plenty of prizes on offer throughout the day.

RAC Cervantes Holiday Park is just a two-hour drive north of Perth, with many key attractions nearby including the Pinnacles, Mt Lesueur and Jurien Bay Boat Harbour.

For more details about the launch day, visit raccervantesholidaypark.com.au.

64 Horizons February / March 2017

Car servicing up to date It’s important to get your car road trip ready to keep you and your family safe on holiday. At RAC Auto Services all car services include a comprehensive safety check and report to ensure your car is in good driving condition. See our ad in this issue to save $40 on your service.

Roadside cover Before you hit the road make sure your Roadside Assistance cover is up to date and has all the features you’ll need to cover the trip you’re making.

Use our cover selector to compare at rac.com.au/roadside.

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/͛ŵ ǀĞƌLJ ƉƌŽƵĚ ƚŽ ďĞ ŝŶǀŽůǀĞĚ ǁŝƚŚ >K<Π ƐƵŶŐůĂƐƐĞƐ͕ ƐŽ / ƵƌŐĞ LJŽƵ ƚŽ ŽƌĚĞƌ Ă ƉĂŝƌ ƚŽĚĂLJ ĂŶĚ ŐŝǀĞ ƚŚĞŵ Ă ƚƌLJ͘ tŚĞŶ LJŽƵ ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞ ƚŚĞŵ ƚĂŬĞ ŽƵƚ LJŽƵƌ ŽůĚ ƐƵŶŐůĂƐƐĞƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵƉĂƌĞ͘ EŽƟĐĞ ŚŽǁ ĐŽůŽƵƌƐ ƐĞĞŵ ŵŽƌĞ ǀŝǀŝĚ ĂŶĚ ŚŽǁ ŵƵĐŚ ĐůĞĂƌĞƌ ĂŶĚ ƐŚĂƌƉĞƌ ŽďũĞĐƚƐ ĂƉƉĞĂƌ ǁŝƚŚ >K<Π ƐƵŶŐůĂƐƐĞƐ Ͳ ĞǀĞŶ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚ ǁĂƚĞƌ͘ EŽƟĐĞ ƚŚĞ ĂďƐĞŶĐĞ ŽĨ ŐůĂƌĞ ĂŶĚ ŚŽǁ ƋƵŝĐŬůLJ LJŽƵ ƐƚŽƉ ƐƋƵŝŶƟŶŐ͘ EŽƟĐĞ ŚŽǁ ŶŝĐĞůLJ ƌĞůĂdžĞĚ LJŽƵƌ ĞLJĞƐ ĨĞĞů͘ ŶĚ ŝĨ LJŽƵ ĚŽŶ͛ƚ ŝŶƐƚĂŶƚůLJ ƐĞĞ Ă ĚƌĂŵĂƟĐ ĚŝīĞƌĞŶĐĞ Ͳ ĞdžĂĐƚůLJ ĂƐ /͛ǀĞ ĚĞƐĐƌŝďĞĚ ŚĞƌĞ Ͳ ƚŚĞŶ ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ƚŚĞŵ ƚŽ ƵƐ ǁŝƚŚŝŶ ϲϬ ĚĂLJƐ ĂŶĚ /͛ůů ĞŶƐƵƌĞ LJŽƵ ŐĞƚ Ă ƉƌŽŵƉƚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽƵƌƚĞŽƵƐ ƌĞĨƵŶĚ͘ dŚĂƚ͛Ɛ ŵLJ ƉĞƌƐŽŶĂů ƉƌŽŵŝƐĞ ƚŽ LJŽƵ͘ zŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ŶŽ ƌŝƐŬ͘ tĞ ůŝǀĞ ĐůŽƐĞ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ďŝŐŐĞƐƚ ŽnjŽŶĞ ŚŽůĞ ŽŶ ĂƌƚŚ͘ ůƵĞ ůŝŐŚƚ ĂŶĚ hs ĚĂŶŐĞƌƐ ĞdžŝƐƚ Ăůů LJĞĂƌ ƌŽƵŶĚ͕ ĞǀĞŶ ŽŶ ĐůŽƵĚLJ ĚĂLJƐ͘ ^Ž ŝĨ LJŽƵ͛ƌĞ ŽƵƚĚŽŽƌƐ Ă ůŽƚ͕ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚ LJŽƵƌ ĞLJĞƐ ĂŶĚ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ƟŵĞ ĞŶŚĂŶĐĞ LJŽƵƌ ǀŝƐŝŽŶ ǁŝƚŚ ŽŶĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ƉĂŝƌ ŽĨ ƐƵŶŐůĂƐƐĞƐ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ďƵLJ͘ KƌĚĞƌ ƚŽĚĂLJ͘

For FASTEST service ...

Ph: 1300 550 797

"The best thing about BLOK's is the glare reduction, no more squinting! I was at the beach today and when looking down into the water I could see the bottom clearly because they remove all the glare from the surface. The colour and visual sharpness is just amazing!" S. McKeith - Perth "We were somewhat sceptical about the claims of better clarity and sharpness than normal sunglasses. We are most surprised and happy that the claims are correct. Our vision is much sharper than we ever expected" Mark Baigen - Canning Vale WA "Thank you for sending me these wonderful sunglasses. They are the best I have ever had DQG ¿W SHUIHFWO\ George Apel -Hamersley WA “BLOK sunglasses are amazing and I have already recommended them to my friends.

I find them especially better than any other sunglasses for driving and spending time on the beach. They completely block out the glare which was my main reason for trying them out" Margaret Macaulay - Perth "I am an ardent supporter of your sunglasses and have told many people how good they are.

I am happy for you to use anything I write if it helps sell more of these excellent glasses” Dr. Jeremy Huyton - Bruce ACT “I took 2 weeks before sending for your sunglasses, thinking it must be a gimmick. My wife has Macular Degeneration and can’t stand the sunlight in her eyes, even with other sunglasses on. So I thought I’d give the BLOK’s a go. Now she has no more eyestrain and is totally delighted with them!”

Mr D Lowe - Modbury North SA

or order securely online at:

www.bloksunglasses.com.au **Low quality polarised lenses are made from easily scratched cheap Triacetate plastic. They are so thin they buckle by just pressing with your thumb. Premium quality polarised lenses (like in BLOK's) are thick, rigid and cannot be buckled.

Special Reader BONUS

Order within 10 days and you will receive FREE PDJQL¿HG UHDGLQJ JODVVHV YDOXHG ,GHDO for reading small print, maps, threading needles, UHPRYLQJ VSOLQWHUV RU DQ\ RWKHU ¿QH ZRUN RU KREE\ (One pair of readers for each pair of BLOK sunglasses ordered)

To order by mail please complete and send to: Decara Direct, PO Box 3359 Burleigh Town, QLD 4220

YES - Please send me _____ pairs of BLOK® sunglasses and BONUS reading glasses. I understand I’m fully protected by your 60 day Money-Back Guarantee and your One Year Warranty so I have no risk.

1 pair $99 ($89+$10 post & handling)

2 pairs $178 (Free p&h)

3pairs $267 (Free p&h)

Enclosed is my Cheque or Money Order for $____________ made payable to: DECARA DIRECT Pty Ltd Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ (Please PRINT clearly)

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________

Horizons FEB17

>K<Π ůĞŶƐĞƐ ĂƌĞ ĂůƐŽ ƉŽůĂƌŝƐĞĚ͘ WŽůĂƌŝƐĞĚ ůĞŶƐĞƐ ŚĂǀĞ ĂŶ ŝŶǀŝƐŝďůĞ Įůŵ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĂĐƚƐ ůŝŬĞ Ă ǀĞŶĞƟĂŶ ďůŝŶĚ ďůŽĐŬŝŶŐ ŽƵƚ ŚŽƌŝnjŽŶƚĂů ŐůĂƌĞ ƌĞŇĞĐƚĞĚ Žī ǁĂƚĞƌ͕ ĐĂƌƐ ĂŶĚ ŽƚŚĞƌ ƐŚŝŶLJ ƐƵƌĨĂĐĞƐ͘ dŚĞLJ͛ƌĞ ƉĂƌƟĐƵůĂƌůLJ ŐŽŽĚ ĨŽƌ ĚƌŝǀŝŶŐ ĂƐ ƚŚĞLJ ;ǀĞƌLJ ŶŽƟĐĂďůLJͿ ĐƵƚ ŚĂnjĂƌĚŽƵƐ ĚĂƐŚďŽĂƌĚ ƌĞĨůĞĐƚŝŽŶƐ ŽŶ LJŽƵƌ ǁŝŶĚƐĐƌĞĞŶ͘ dŚĞ ƌĞŵĂƌŬĂďůĞ ĞīĞĐƚ ŽĨ ƚŚŝƐ ďůƵĞͲďůŽĐŬ ĂŶĚ ƉŽůĂƌŝƐĞĚ ĐŽŵďŝŶĂƟŽŶ ŐŽƚ ŵĞ ǀĞƌLJ ĞdžĐŝƚĞĚ ĂďŽƵƚ ƚŚĞ ǀĂůƵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞƐĞ ŐůĂƐƐĞƐ͘ Ƶƚ / ƐŽŽŶ ůĞĂƌŶƚ ĞǀĞŶ ŵŽƌĞ ĨĂĐƚƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĂďƐŽůƵƚĞůLJ ĐŽŶǀŝŶĐĞĚ ŵĞ͘​͘​͘ >K<Π ůĞŶƐĞƐ ĂůƐŽ ďůŽĐŬ ŚĂƌŵĨƵů hs ƌĂLJƐ ĂŶĚ ĂƌĞ ŵĂĚĞ ĨƌŽŵ ƚŚĞ ĮŶĞƐƚ ŚŝŐŚ ƌĞƐŽůƵƟŽŶ ůĞŶƐ ŵĂƚĞƌŝĂůƐ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌůĚ͘ dŚĞ ƐƉĞĐŝĂů ďůƵĞͲďůŽĐŬ ĂŶĚ ƉŽůĂƌŝƐĞĚ ĮůƚĞƌƐ ĂƌĞ ƉĂƌƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ůĞŶƐ ŝƚƐĞůĨ Ͳ ŶŽƚ Ă ĐŚĞĂƉ ĐŽĂƟŶŐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐĂŶ ƌƵď Žī ůĂƚĞƌ͘ dŚĞ ďůĂĐŬ ƵŶŝƐĞdž ĨƌĂŵĞ ŝƐ ŵĂĚĞ ĨƌŽŵ ,ŝͲ&ůĞdž dZϵϬ ŶLJůŽŶ͕ ƐŽ ŝƚ ĮƚƐ ƐŶƵŐůLJ ŽŶ ĂŶLJ ƐŝnjĞ ŚĞĂĚ͘ dŚĞLJ ĂƌĞ ƐŽ ůŝŐŚƚ ĂŶĚ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚĂďůĞ LJŽƵ ǁŝůů ŚĂƌĚůLJ ŬŶŽǁ LJŽƵ͛ƌĞ

ǁĞĂƌŝŶŐ ƐƵŶŐůĂƐƐĞƐ Ͳ ĂŶĚ ƐŽ ƚŽƵŐŚ ĂŶĚ ĚƵƌĂďůĞ͕ ƚŚĞLJ͛ƌĞ ǀŝƌƚƵĂůůLJ ƵŶďƌĞĂŬĂďůĞ͘

_________________________________________________________________________ P/code: __________________ Please charge my:

Visa

MasterCard for $ ____________

(Sorry, we cannot process AMEX or Diners Club)

Please allow 7-14 days delivery Quicker for Metro areas

Card No: _______________/______________/_______________/_______________ Exp: ______ /______

Not sold in shops. Compies with Consumer Product Safety Standards Report: 12495.2

© 2017 Decara Direct Pty Ltd

M

Looking to stay independent in your own home?

F

Baptistcare’s Services for Seniors offer tailored assistance and support to meet your individual needs so you can stay independent and connected to the community.

Services include gardening, cleaning, shopping, meal preparation, transport, assistive technology and more.

• Level 1-4 Home Care Packages.

• Private ad hoc or ongoing arrangements are available for people not eligible for Home Care Package funding.

For more information, please visit our website, call 1300 660 640 or email customer.centre@baptistcare.com.au

baptistcare.com.au

27 Day NZ & Australia by Coach & Cruise SPECIAL DEPARTURE 6 February 2018

SAVE $400

+ receive US$350 onboard credit per couple

+ FREE Classic Beverage Package or Unlimited Internet**

D

iscover NZ for 10 nights visiting iconic locations of the South Island by modern coach before flying to Auckland and then experiencing cultural Rotorua. Combine this with a relaxing 16 night cruise aboard the luxurious Celebrity Solstice around the North Island then on to Fremantle stopping at various ports.

FULLY ESCORTED Tour includes one way airfare and taxes • Tour Guide COACH TOUR Modern coach travel with a professional Coach Captain • 4 star hotel accommodation • most meals • sightseeing & attractions CRUISE Deluxe Balcony Cabin • world-class dining (breakfast, lunch & dinner daily) • awesome entertainment and activities • gratuities on board.

PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

8299

$

*

10

NIGHT COACH

16

NIGHT CRUISE

>> CRUISE HOME TO FREMANTLE

Conditions apply. *Prices valid ex PER based on one way Trans Tasman airfare and includes pre paid taxes. Prices and taxes are subject to change. Travel to return from the Cruise in Fremantle not included in package. **Saving is per couple ($200pp) and has been deducted from the advertised price. Onboard credit (GAP Points) is per couple. If a Solo cabin is booked the traveller will receive US$200 onboard credit. Travellers can choose between either the Classic Beverage package OR Unlimited on the Celebrity Solstice, travellers in the same Stateroom must select the same option. No other special offers or discounts apply. Offer can be withdrawn at any time without notice. For new bookings only until 31 March 2017.

1300 655 179

rac.com.au/travel

Visit your local RAC Travel & Cruise centre

66 Horizons February / March 2017

Store locations » Applecross 6150 6459 » Carousel 9365 4700 » Joondalup 9308 1600

» Mandurah 9512 8200 » Midland 6150 6468 » Morley 6466 2300 » West Perth 9436 4830

MemberBenefits

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

WIN

1 of 75 passes

Now save on a range of furniture, homewares and kitchen accessories see page 68

to see Smurfs, The Lost Village see page 69

Member benefits

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

R15460

Apollo Hobart Special For holidays within Australia Pick-up in Hobart and travel one way to any other Apollo branch and receive: » 25% discount on the daily Flex rate + 10% RAC member benefit » No one way fee! » Bonus $350 Travel Allowance Pick-up between: 26 April 2016 – 9 June 2016 Drop off between: 15 May 2016 – 15 June 2016

Call 1300 655 179 or visit rac.com.au/apollo Available for pick up from any Hobart Branch, and drop off at any available Apollo branch (excluding Hobart). Available for all 2WD vehicles. Valid for new bookings received by 1 May 2017. Subject to availability at all times based on fleet capacity assigned to this special. One way rentals only. Maximum rental period of 21-days. Normal one way minimum rental periods apply. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other special offers, early bird offers or be combined to receive long term discounts. Multi Hire discounts do not apply. One way fee of $260 waived. Normal terms & conditions, payment conditions and cancellation fees apply. Only applies to NEW bookings. Rates quoted are in Australian Dollars. Apollo terms & conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2.5% may apply.

R15458

Show your card and save at this exclusive family of brands

For more information visit rac.com.au/mb Terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/mb for details

68 Horizons February / March 2017

10% off full priced stock & 5% off electrics

10% off full-priced stock & 5% off sale items

10% off full-priced stock & 5% off sale items

10% off full-priced stock & 5% off sale items

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Member benefits

R15457

Win 1 of 75 family preview passes Go in the draw to attend a special preview on Sunday March 26 at Event Cinemas Innaloo.

In cinemas from April 2017.

Enter now rac.com.au/smurfs *Terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/smurfs for more details. Smurfsâ&#x201E;˘ & (C) Peyo 2016 Lic. Lafig B. Smurfs: The Lost Village, the Movie (C) 2017 CPII and LSC Film Corporation All Rights Reserved.

February / March 2017 Horizons 69

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

COME AND ENJOY 10% OFF OUR IRRESISTIBLE SMÃ&#x2013;RGÃ&#x2026;SBORD SmörgÃ¥sbord Breakfast or lunch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday to Saturday SmörgÃ¥sbord Dinner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday to Thursday Please present your valid RAC Card on arrival to receive the discount for your entire group. Only one payment per table.

Reservations are essential.

97 MURRAY STREET PERTH

Call 9325 3900 or email hotel@missmaud.com.au Direct bookings only Not valid for special events or with any other offer.

Valid 1 February â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 31 March 2017.

Discount on Smörgåsbord only.

RECEIVE 10%* OFF FULL HOUSE OUSE GUTTER REPLACEMENT

Free

installation for RAC members

s (VUUFST BOE %PXOQJQFT s 3PPG 3FTUPSBUJPO s 3JEHFDBQ 3F QPJOUJOH s 4LZMJHIUT s "MM (FOFSBM 3PPG 3FQBJST s "MM XPSL HVBSBOUFFE "MM XPSL HVBSBOUFFE

Call 0439 707 578 or 9398 9861 XXX SPPGSFOFXBMT DPN BV

Get blockbuster savings on movie tickets Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership

Visit rac.com.au/onlineshop Member Benefit terms and conditions apply. Visit rac.com.au/movies for more details.

70 Horizons February / March 2017

We willy beat an! quote 300mm

360mm

$185 ZINC $195 COLORBOND

$210 ZINC $220 COLORBOND

Fully installed

Fully installed *Conditions apply

Snuggle up to 15% off a new bed Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership

Show your card and save Member Benefit terms and conditions apply. Save 15% off regular prices or 5% off discounted offers. Visit rac.com.au/snooze for more details.

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Save up to

20% on selected products

Comfort is what LA-Z-BOY does best, after all weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been doing it since 1927.

But, perhaps you may not have realized the vast range of designs now available at LA-Z-BOY Furniture Galleries. Choose from our extensive range of designs, fabric or leather coverings and recliner action mechanisms. The one thing we can promise is, the entire range delivers unrivalled comfort.

RAC W.A. Members - Exclusive offer for LA-Z-BOY Furniture Gallery customers:

Receive 20% off when you present your RAC membership card*.

METRO STORES Osborne Park 2/425 Scarborough Bch Rd (Cnr Hutton) Rockingham Cnr Goddard & Council Ave Cannington Cnr Albany Hwy & Nicholson Rd Joondalup Joondalup Dve (opposite Bunnings) Melville Shop 15, 276 Leach Hwy (Prime West Centre) Midland 147 Gt Eastern Hwy

9444 0778 9527 8531 9351 8191 9301 2900 9317 2220 9250 4424

COUNTRY STORES Bunbury 21 Wellington St 97212344 Geraldton 167 N.W.C. Hwy 9921 3129 Albany 3 Chesterpass Rd 9841 7400 *Offer is off recommended retail prices and can not be used in conjunction with any other offer.

February / March 2017 Horizons 71

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

SAVE $390 WITH GARDEN WATER BORES

Garage Door Needing Attention?

Metro-wide retic and bore installation and repairs

Receive $150 off installation and a FREE 3/4˝ tap and pressure release valve worth $240 with all new bores.

RAC Members receive

10% Off

Call 1300 734 300 or 0411 511 611 Also bore and reticulation service and maintenance

parts*

SAVE 10% OFF CARAVAN ACCESSORIES KEN PEACHEY CARAVAN REPAIRS

HUGE RANGE OF GARAGE DOOR PARTS

Plus we install, repair and service all makes and models.

Insurance, servicing, modification, accessories and canvas work.

Call (08) 9277 1381 or Email info@kenpeachey.com www.kenpeachey.com 194 Campbell Street Belmont WA 6104

9303 9334 Unit1/5 Quantum link Wangara WA 6065 www.edenrocgaragedoors.com.au

Licensed repairer MRB1167

*Show RAC card at time of booking. Discount applies to garage door parts only

SAVE ON FLOREAT PROPERTY SETTLEMENTS

10% DISCOUNT ELITE POOL COVERS

If purchasing or selling your home or rural property, Floreat Settlements offers RAC Members $600 settlement fees for Sellers and $880 settlement fees for Buyers plus govt fees and disbursements.

· Cut Water Evaporation by nearly 100% % · Save on Water Bills · Swim longer in a warmer pool · Save Water Don’t buy until you have seen Elite Triple Cell Solar Pool Blanket

LIMITED TIME ONLY. REGISTER NOW.

Call 9240 2262

Call 9245 4822

(Country call: 1300 136 696)

or email admin@floreatsettlements.com.au www.floreatsettlements.com.au

or visit our factory showroom, at 10 Cressall Road, Balcatta

Award Winning Triple Cell

*Offer available until 21 Mar 2017. Factory direct sales only. Not valid with any other offer or if Elite has to measure pool.

Be ready for your next holiday, and refresh your first aid skills.

Whether you’re on the road or at a camping site, having first aid skills will help you to be prepared for the unexpected.

Give yourself peace of mind and book your first aid refresher course before you head away.

Plus come see us at stand 336 at the RAC Caravan & Camping Show for some fantastic first aid kit specials!

Call 9334 1233 or visit stjohnambulance.com.au to book your course. *RAC member first aid course discount for Perth metro area only.

72 Horizons February / March 2017

*

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Do you hear but not understand?

This Invisible Hearing Aid is virtually undetectable!

Now start at only

1,495ea

$

after discount

Free Hearing test & otoscopic examination

Why miss words if you don’t have to?

This hearing aid works for your ears how a contact lens works for your eyes: improves your hearing without anyone knowing it’s there.

Introducing a hearing aid that was designed in the USA and is custom made here in Australia. It’s so small it fits right inside your ear canal, and that makes it virtually invisible for anyone else to see.

Packs a Punch Despite its miniature size, the processor inside the “InvisibleIn-Canal” hearing aid is so powerful it supports the most sophisticated advances in digital hearing technology to date.

The microprocessor is so fast, that it samples the listening environment 20,000 times per second and makes automatic adjustments to the sound it delivers to your ear. Some models in the range are designed to identify non-speech noise and the steady hum of background conversations then 30 DAY EXCHANGE GUARANTEE

LATEST TECHNOLOGY WITH NATURAL SOUND

reduces es those sounds while amplifying the speech directly d you, making conversations much clearer. around Are You ou Missing Too Much?

Don’t let et your hearing loss rob you of the things you enjoy most in n life: the relationships with your friends and family.

You can an get help now without suffering the stigma of yesterday’s aids. day’s technology hearing aids Hearing Loss Specialists Hearing Clinics Are offering complimentary hearing consultations to RAC members to determine whether you are a candidate to wear the Invisible-In-Canal hearing aids. We invite you to call today for an appointment. Your visit will include a hearing test (with otoscopic examination), a personalised consultation to determine the correct level of technology for your individual hearing loss and social requirement.

VIEW OUR MOST RECENT CLIENT FEEDBACK www.hearingloss.net.au/ testimonials

SPECIAL DISCOUNTS FOR SENIORS & PENSIONERS & FREE HEARING TESTS

Exclusive Offer for RAC Members: You will be eligible for $500* off the regular price on each hearing aid. $1,000 discount for both ears.

Trust the Hearing Aid Specialists with 30+ years experience in Western Australia.

All Clinics 9350 6311 Main Clinic: 12 Pattie Street, Cannington Balcatta Cannington Rockingham Subiaco

www.hearingloss.net.au

*Not valid with any other promotion **Conditions apply

February / March 2017 Horizons 73

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

BEAT THE HEAT

% 0ff

E

X OF T F E E N R D E D

!

40 CALL NOW to protect your home and block out the summer heat with our fantastic summer special, with a massive 40% off every Nu Style Roller shutter purchase. Aluminium shutters are the perfect product for your home if you are looking to O reduce the Perth summer heat, O protect and secure your family, O save on energy bills, O block out light and minimize noise.

Backed up by a 10 year warranty, Nu Style Shutter are built to last and protect your home, all year round.

RAC Members receive

a further

10%

with every electric shutter purchase^

FOR A FREE MEASURE AND QUOTE IN METRO AREAS 179 Beringarra Avenue, Malaga, 6090 *Offer ends 31st of January 2017. T&Cs apply. ^A further 10% off the already discounted price. Visit our webpage for more info.

74 Horizons February / March 2017

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

The CSIRO recommends annual termite inspections

Save

$165 Plus, 15% off all other services*

RAC Members Exclusive Offer only $190* (Normally $355) Offer only available once per household

*RAC member discounts and offers are not applicable to warranty renewal contracts or other Termico offers. Offer only applicable in metro and selected country areas (Bunbury and Busselton).

Spider treatment not available with pre-purchase inspection. Offer available once per household.** To approved customers only.

February / March 2017 Horizons 75

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU HAD YOUR HOT WATER SYSTEM SERVICED???

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

RAC members save up to

RAC Members receive

20% off RRP PAINT

$100

*

Most manufacturers recommend you service your hot water system between 12 - 24 months We specialise in servicing and installing hot water systems and cater for all your general plumbing and gas needs. *RAC Members Special Offers • Hot Water Unit Servicing - $99.00* inc GST – saving of $100 • Free removal of old hot water system with every new install – saving of $70.00

AVAILABLE IN STORE: BALCATTA 08 9204 1711 BUNBURY 08 9721 3988 BUSSELTON 08 9752 1666 CANNINGTON 08 9350 9099 CLAREMONT 08 9385 5222 JOONDALUP 08 9300 2711 MALAGA 08 9209 3043

*excludes parts

Call 08 6180 1031 or 0410 515 129 or email admin@linkplumbing.net.au Visit www.linkplumbing.net.au for more RAC Member specials.

MANDURAH MIDLAND MINDARIE O'CONNOR OSBORNE PARK ROCKINGHAM SOUTHERN RIVER SUCCESS

08 9581 8555 08 9250 3751 08 9407 9194 08 9314 1399 08 9444 7544 08 9527 5711 08 9398 2577 08 9417 4981

*Discount only available at Solver Professional Paint Centres in Western Australia.

Offer only available to RAC members on presentation of membership card. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer ends 30 September 2017.

Servicing the Perth metro area for over 30 years

New year, new light.

Let the sunshine in without the heat!

Skylights & Roof Ventilation Solutions for all regions of WA

RAC members receive a

7%

discount off selected products with

SkylightsWA

Showrooms at Balcatta, Bunbury & Albany SKYLIGHTSWA & PERTH DAYLIGHTING Units 5 & 6/1 Halley Road (cnr Geddes Street), Balcatta 76 Horizons February / March 2017

Call 9240 4045 Bunbury ext 7013

www.skylightswa.com.au • www.perthdaylighting.com.au

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

E

X OF T F E E N R D E D

!

Enjoy your alfresco in style all summer long

40% OFF ELECTRIC ROLLER SCREENS* RAC members receive a free remote control upgrade with every electric roller screen purchase External Roller Screens are an effective way to give your home the lifestyle and comfort you deserve.

Conveniently operated from anywhere in the home at the touch of a button, Nu Style Roller Screens allow you to control the amount of sunlight and ventilation with complete privacy without sacrificing your view.

Your NuStyle Roller Screens can be functional all year around. Keeping your alfresco warm in winter and even cooler in summer. By fully closing the screen you will benefit from up to 85% light control and shade cover, with an outstanding up to 95% heat control and UV block. It not only drastically reduces the harsh summer heat but also reduces your cooling and energy costs.

CALL 1300 798 776

or email info@nustyleshutters.com.au For a free measure and quote in metro areas 179 Beringarra Avenue, Malaga

www.nustyleshutters.com.au *Offer ends 31st of January 2017. T&Cs apply. Visit our webpage for more info.

February / March 2017 Horizons 77

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

RAC Member

discounts available

78 Horizons February / March 2017

Show your RAC membership card and start saving

Take a break!

15%

RAC members enjoy OFF the best rate of the day with Thrifty Car Rental in Australia & New Zealand.

Member favourite - Mitsubishi ASX

Plus save more with these additional member benefits: • $5 off per day on protection options • $3 off per day on GPS hire • Free additional driver

Thrifty is RAC’s preferred car rental partner Terms & conditions apply. All offers are valid for commenced and completed rentals until 31 Octobber 2017 unless otherwise stated. Must quote RAC membership number at time of booking and present a valid membership card upon reservation & time of collection. 15% discount on best rate of the day, available at Thrifty locations in Australia and New Zealand only. Damage Waiver Premium Protection available at a discounted price of $22/day or Ultimate Protection at $28/day, both options discounted by $5/day, available in Australia only. Ultimate Protection is capped at 10 days per 30 day rental. New Zealand Protection Options include Total Protection Package & Accident Excess Reduction, both options discounted by $5/day. For more information on damage waiver products in Australia & New Zealand please speak to a consultant. Additional driver fee waived for RAC members, offer valid in Australia only. GPS unit hire available at a discounted daily price of $7.70 (Inc. GST) at selected locations in Australia only, usual daily rate is $11 and a capped rental price of $77.00 (Inc. GST) for a maximum of 30 days rental. Offers are subject to availability & cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion, special offer or coupon. All car rentals must meet the standard age, driver licence and credit requirements of Thrifty. All rentals are subject to the terms and conditions of the Rental Agreement. For full terms and conditions go to rac.com.au/thrifty.

February / March 2017 Horizons 79

For more ways to save visit rac.com.au/memberbenefits

20% OFF * THIS FEBRUARY As an RAC member, this February you’ll get 20% off* a wide range of parts, accessories and lubricants. And if some Repco Know How is what you need, our friendly, expert staff are always ready to share their knowledge to help you get the job done.

Repco has over 90 years of motoring Know How supplying parts, accessories and advice to millions of Australian drivers and motoring professionals. So if it’s time to change your oil or give your car a little extra care get into Repco. www.repco.com.au

Don’t forget to show your card & save.

*20% off applies to full retail price and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Discount does not apply to purchases of motor vehicle, marine or deep cycle batteries, transmissions, engines & cylinder heads, satellite navigation devices, gift cards, combo deals, any trade purchases and trade workshop equipment. Discount does not apply to purchases from the Repco Authorised Service network. Store stock only. Offer valid 1-28 February 2017 only.

15344-12

Visit bikemore.com.au Call 9380 6580 or visit us in-store at 356A Rockeby Rd, Subiaco

Terms and conditions apply. 15% off full priced items and 5% off discounted items. Valid RAC membership card must be presented at time of purchase.

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

80 Horizons February / March 2017

Terms & conditions

WIN A MAZDA2 MAXX valued at more than $21,000 see page 28

TO ENTER Simply sign up your teenager for free RAC Road Ready membership by 7 April and you’ll go in the draw to win.

Visit rac.com.au/winamazda

Road Ready Win a Car page 28

The competition begins on 8th Jan 2017 at 9.00am (Australian Western Standard Time) and ends on 7th April 2017 at 11.59pm. Up to 19 entrants (winners) may each be awarded as follows: Major prize 1 x 2016 Mazda2 Maxx, including 1 year’s comprehensive insurance and 1 year’s Standard Roadside Assistance provided by RAC. If the winner is under 16 years of age the vehicle is to be registered in the name of the winner’s parent or legal guardian. Weekly prizes: 1 x electric bike, 2 x ladies bikes, 3 x Micro scooters, 3 x skateboards 9 x $ 150 Rebel sport voucher. (Vouchers are subject to terms and conditions of use and expiry). The winners shall be chosen by the Judges from the entries at random.

Weekly prize draws will be conducted on - 13 January 2017, 20 January 2017, 27 January 2017, 3 February 2017, 10 February 2017, 17 February 2017, 24 February 2017, 3 March 2017, 10 March 2017, 17 March 2017, 24 March 2017, 31 March 2017. Major Prize draw will be conducted on 10th April 2017.

Winners will be notified by

writing. When the winners are notified of their prize they will also be provided with details as to the collection of their prize.

The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The promoter reserves the right not to select winners of all or any prizes in its absolute discretion. Each winner must claim its prize on or before 30 April 2017. Prizes must be claimed in person unless a winner is otherwise advised. Identification, which includes a photograph, will be required. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Car Doctor page 61

Entrants may submit more than one entry. Up to three entrants (winners) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a 2017 Perth and Surrounds UBD Street Directory, valued at $39.95. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid.

The winner will be notified by

email, telephone or letter. When the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in February/March Horizons must claim their prize by 22 March 2017. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

the winner is notified of their prize they will also be provided details as to the collection of their prize. Entrants published in February/March Horizons must claim their prize by 22 March 2017. In the event that no contact details are supplied, or RAC cannot make contact with the winner, the prize may be withdrawn, at the absolute discretion of the Horizons magazine. Prizes will only be awarded following winner validation and verification. This competition is subject to the promoter’s privacy policy.

Winning Letter page 8

Entrants may submit more than one entry. One entrant (winner) will be awarded only one prize as follows: a year’s Classic Roadside Assistance valued at $174. If the winner already has Roadside Assistance, the Classic Roadside Assistance will be applied as credit to their account until their cover runs out. Entries that do not, in the absolute discretion of the panel of judges, comply with these requirements are invalid.

The winner will be notified by email, phone or letter. When

More info Full terms and conditions for each competition are available at rac.com.au/competitions.

For details of winners from our past promotions, visit rac.com.au/horizonswinners.

February / March 2017 Horizons 81

Contact

US

The 1D best

Do you have an idea for The 10 best?

Send your suggestions to editor@rac.com.au.

Pinnacles, Cervantes Arguably the most photographed rocks in Western Australia, thousands of limestone pillars form an almost alien landscape within Nambung National Park, near Cervantes. Some of the structures are up to 3.5m high. The site is easily accessed via car, with a number of parking areas along the route.

Natural Bridge, Albany

Rock formations Wave Rock, Hyden Like a giant ocean wave suspended in time, this 15m-high and 110m-long granite rock was shaped by more than 2700 million years of weather and water erosion.

You can explore the rock from ground level or follow the walk trail over the top.

Interpretive signage explores the rock’s history and that of the surrounding area.

Nature’s Window, Kalbarri Wind erosion has created a perfect rock arch frame through which to view the Murchison River and surrounding gorges in Kalbarri National Park. The layered red sandstone of Nature’s Window provides a striking contrast of colour when viewed against a clear blue sky. There is an 8km loop walk trail that begins and ends at the site.

82 Horizons February / March 2017

Mt Augustus, Gascoyne-Murchison

Bungle Bungle Range.

Dog Rock, Albany

Known to local Aboriginal people as Burringurrah, this massive 8km-long rock formation is often referred to as a monolith and compared with Uluru, although it is actually made up of multiple rock types rather than being one large rock. Around 900 million years ago movement along faults buckled it into its present shape. Mt Augustus is 360km from Meekatharra.

Among Albany’s many spectacular rock formations Dog Rock is possibly the most quirky. The large granite formation resembles the head of a dog and is located on Middleton Road near the city centre. Due to its busy location, in the 1930s a painted reflective ‘collar’ was added to the rock to make it more visible to traffic at night.

Kokerbin Rock, Wheatbelt

Elephant Rocks, Denmark

Located within the Kokerbin Nature Reserve, Kokerbin Rock is the third largest monolith in Australia. The rock is 122m high with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside from the top. It is made up of many interesting rock formations and caves. Kokerbin Rock is 30km south of Kellerberrin.

These giant granite boulders located in a small cove are so named because they resemble a herd of elephants gazing out to the ocean. Shallow turquoise waters surround Elephant Rocks, which is a short walk from picturesque Greens Pool in William Bay National Park.

A massive granite bridge carved by the ocean spans the surging swells below in Albany’s Torndirrup National Park. A new viewing platform at the site of the Natural Bridge and The Gap provides spectacular but safe views of the unique rock formations and the rugged coastline.

Bungle Bungle Range, Kimberley The giant orange and black domes of the Bungle Bungle Range are one of the state’s most unique geological wonders. A scenic flight over the area is the best way to appreciate the scale of the formations, though there is plenty to see and explore on foot also. The Bungle Bungle Range is within the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park.

Beringbooding Rock, Mukinbudin This rock features a gnamma hole, a natural rock cavity that can contain water from underground and rainwater runoff. A water tank was built on the site in 1937 and is one of Australia’s largest rock water catchment tanks. Other interesting rock formations on the site include a balancing boulder and a cave with Aboriginal rock art.

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Home insurance that gives you a local claims team and member benefits Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the power of membership

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At RAC weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re locals too, so we know all about helping a neighbour in need. Plus, we give you great member benefits like savings on entertainment, shopping and more.

Call 1300 736 143 to find out more 84 Horizons February March 2017 Benefit Terms and Conditions apply.

Check the PDS at rac.com.au for/details.

Member