February 2010
SUBARU 4WD NEWS
Meetings of THE SUBARU 4WD CLUB of WESTERN AUSTRALIA INC. are normally held at 7.30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the Wembley Community Centre (Joan Watters Building) 40 Alexander Street, WEMBLEY W.A.
Subaru 4WD Web Site: http://www.subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au SUBARU 4WD CLUB of WESTERN AUSTRALIA INC P.O. BOX 434, SOUTH PERTH, W.A. 6951
SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS 2010 COMMITTEE PRESIDENT:
John Cahill
(Home Phone) 0439 922 338
president@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
SECRETARY:
Robert Hurst
0434983011
secretary@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
TREASURER:
Keith Wilcox
9344-6830
treasurer@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
SOCIAL ORGANISER:
Tom Minto
9382-4678
TRIPS CO-ORDINATOR:
Josan Moss
9341-1446
EDITOR:
Joy Unno
0429473709
editor@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
Jim Wilcox Keith Low Tony Richards Alex Barnsley-Hurst Ian Johnson
9306-8222 9459-3358 9386-7705 9447-5552 9448-5419
MERCHANDISE:
Tony Richards
9386-7705
WEB MASTER:
Karl Boeing
9341-5087
webmaster@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
4WD ASSOC DELEGATE: Tony Richards
9386-7705
M’SHIP CO-ORDINATOR: Keith Low
9459-3358
membership@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
PROPERTY OFFICER: Peter Andruszkiw/Simon Newton Club member of the year 2009: Tony Richards LIFE MEMBERS Fred Offer, Keith Anderson, Jonel Householder, Ray Stewart, Ian Johnson, Peter Andruszkiw and Ron Caunce. Page 2
SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
President’s Report February The New Year has kicked off very well with both the Beach trip and the Long-Long Weekend Australia Day trip to Lucky Bay well attended with long standing but not often seen members attending as well! This month we had a very positive response from the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) regarding our efforts at Lochada over the September long weekend last year. The department has formally responded to our letter to them regarding our observations and recommendations for the Boiada Camp and environs over that weekend which had a very large number of visitors to the site. DEC agreed that the large number of people at Lochada was directly attributable to the Newspaper articles two weeks before and expressed dismay that editorial responsibilities did not include notification or permission from the land manager for access. They expressed very positive views about the contribution of our club – to Quote “DEC applauds the contribution made by the Subaru Club of WA and will use your report as the basis for prioritising any minor maintenance items identified in your letter” In addition DEC advised us that two large mining operations have been approved for the area and that the Mungada road access will upgraded to a sealed road with installation of a high voltage power line and rail line and that the activity and access to Lochada, Kadji Kadji and Karara will be significantly impacted. To enable us to still contribute to the maintenance and use of the DEC former pastoral leases, DEC have given us a point of contact with whom we can arrange extensions and amendments to our current agreement, which as a club, we are actively pursuing. To close with another quote from DEC –
“I thank you again for your club’s excellent contribution” Well done everybody Regards - John Cahill
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS
TRIP CO-ORDINATOR’S REPORT February With Peter’s beach run and Keith’s weekend in Lucky Bay we have got off to a great start to the year. I have just returned from Lucky Bay, and those of us who enjoyed the trip agreed the place lived up to its name as we felt very lucky that it was not blowing a gale, plus, no flies and the temperature was very comfortable. It was a great weekend. It is shaping up to be a full year of all kinds of interesting trips including Simon’s Bight trip in April which is approaching rapidly. See up-to-date promo further on. Plus the Holland Track is an alternative Easter trip now being lead by Tony Richards. Jim Wilcox has stepped up as Trip Leader for Carey Brook as Tony has work duties, thanks Jim. I am proposing a 12-13 day trip to Mt Augustus/Kennedy Ranges midyear – see separate promo. Note: Wilbinga beach clean-up trip is cancelled. February 13th –Karakamia Wildlife Park. Trip Leader – Josan Moss. LWE Sat Feb 27t – 1st March -Carey Brook Camp, near Pemberton. Trip Leader, Jim Wilcox. March 20-21st- Gingin Observatory, camping overnight at new campsite nearby. Trip Leader J Cahill Extended Easter, Apr 2nd-11th – Take another Bight – Trip Leader Simon Newton. Easter 2nd – 5th April - Holland Track – Trip Leader Tony Richards April 18th – BBQ or pizzas at Lake Monger– Trip Leader Tom Minto
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC LWE April 23rd-26th- Northcliffe – Trip Leader, Rob Hurst May 9th – Busy Bee at Karrakin – Date to be confirmed. May 15th – Restaurant meal - Trip Leader, Tom Minto. Note date change from Jan mag. May 23rd – Gnangara Pines – Joy Unno June 26th - Christmas in June - details TBC See you out there...Josan
FOR SALE L Series Parts ♦ ♦
1 L series front bumper $30ono, 5 L series 13 inch rims $20 each ono Contact Matt Ward on 0424408164.
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Sumpguards: Forester, Outback I have spoken with Japanese Wholesale Spares and they are prepared to manufacture STEEL SUMPGUARDS for Foresters and Outbacks early in the New Year. If you still have the plastic underbody tray I would strongly recommend that you replace it with a metal guard if you contemplate taking your vehicle off road. The guard is going to cost around $150. Please call John Liddle on 08-93023519 if you are interested, or E-mail fats@japanesewholesale.com.au Jim Page 5
SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS
TRIP PROMOTIONS / INFORMATION KARAKAMIA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13TH Please meet at Karakamia between 6.00- 6.15pm which will give you time to pay. The walk starts promptly at 6.30pm. I have booked for 12 for those already on the trip list. If anyone else is coming please let me know as they are keen to know numbers – thank you! View Australia’s Unique Wildlife in the Wild! If you haven’t seen a Woylie, a Quenda or even a Tammar Wallaby before, then come to Karakamia for a guided twilight walk on a balmy summer’s evening. Under expert guidance we will hope to see these protected nocturnal creatures venture out for their night activities in their natural habitat. The walk is approximately two hours along bush tracks. It is recommend wearing comfortable walking boots or shoes with good non-slip soles, as some of the terrain can be slippery. There are tea and coffee making facilities to enjoy after the walk. Karakamia is managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, and is located approximately one hour’s drive from Perth CBD. There are two ways to get there – via Great Eastern Highway – turn left in to Old Northam Road, turn left in to Northcote Road, turn first right in to Lilydale Road, and the sanctuary is 4.25kms down this road. Or, from Toodyay Road – approximately 3kms past Gidgegannup turn right in to Lilydale Road, travel 5.5kms and the sanctuary is on the right hand side. Cost: $18 per person; $12 concession; $50 family payable by cash, cheque or credit card. For more information you can visit the website: www.australianwildflife.com Trip Leader: Josan Moss josanmoss@aapt.net.au Page 6
SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS .
TRIP PROMOTIONS / INFORMATION
Carey Brook – March LWE – 27/28 Feb and 1 March 2010 This is a DEC camping ground “discovered” during the Club trip to Yeagarup at Easter last year. From the DEC brochure for this camping ground: “Carey Brook offers both vehicle based camping and walk in camping amongst lush forest on the crystal clear Carey Brook. A 3.5km walk trail meanders along the Brook connecting the camping sites. At the nearby Donnelly River boat ramp you can launch your boat or canoe for a trip to the river mouth. Use Carey Brook as a base to explore the beautiful surrounds.”
There are 2 camping loops – Grass Tree Hollow (5 campsites) and Snotty Gobble Loop (9 campsites). I would like to stay at Snotty Gobble Loop. The camp sites are tucked away amongst peppermint trees. These sites are not suitable for trailers. There is also a group camping site and a shared camp kitchen facility for all to use. However, you cannot make a booking for any site at Carey Brook, including the group camping area. It is all first in, best dressed. So, if any intending participant is able to go up on the Friday and is willing to try and reserve individual sites and/or the group camping area for the Club, could you please let me know. Destinations we can visit include Lake Jasper, Black Point, Beedelup Falls, Yeagarup and the Karri Forest Explorer Drive (88kms) Carey Brook Long Weekend (Sat 27th Feb - Mon 1st March) Camping fees are payable: Per adult/per night $7.00 Concession Cardholder/per night $5.00 School-aged child under 16 $2.00
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
Carey Brook – March LWE – 27/28 Feb and 1 March 2010 Meeting Details When:9.00am on Saturday 27 February 2010 Where:Cnr of Baldivis and Safety Bay Roads, Rockingham (at the Caltex Petrol Station) Bring: Camping gear, food, drink, bathers, canoe, fishing gear and usual recovery gear. Trip Leader: Jim Wilcox – 9306 8222
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS
FOR SALE 4 x 16" stock Forester X steelies + tyres Rims great condition, no buckles , painted white 2x Dunlop SP Sport 200E 215/60/R16 95V 2x Hankook Optimo H418 94H Tyres roadworthy 50%ish & correct load rating $150 Phil 0412004885 ptiang@hotmail.com pickup Como or Gosnells pictures available via email.
REMINDER Please check to see that you have paid your membership fees so that you will continue to receive your Subaru Magazine Membership Co-ordinator is Keith Low ph: 9459-3358 membership@subaru4wdclub.asn.au Page 10
SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS
Starry, Starry Night– Gingin March 20-21 Come join us for a visit to the Gravity Discovery Centre Gingin and Observatory. I personally had not been up to Gingin since the last time I led a trip up there in 2003. Since then it has really expanded with a whole range of additional activities and sites for all to enjoy. The Gravity centre now has its own leaning tower from which Galileo’s original gravity experiments can be replicated, magnetic levitation, great big pendulums and other exhibits which we can visit during the day till 5pm and then into the observatory at night from about 7pm where there is a large range of telescopes pointing at every manner of star, planet, constellation (Subaru!) and galaxy. The 20th is a dark night which is very good for viewing in the clear air of Gingin – no light pollution from Perth at all! Just 5 minutes away, is the Willowbrook Farm Caravan Park who are able to accommodate us overnight in a small grassed park with beautiful outlook across some lovely gardens. On Sunday morning they will even supply freshly made scones with jam and cream for breakfast. Then after breakfast on Sunday we can break camp and go and play putt putt golf at Caledenia gardens only 8km away if we wish or do a leisurely drive back through Wilbinga to Yanchep. Costs are $12-$15/adult for the Gravity centre, about $9/person for the camping (depending on numbers) and about $34/person for the observatory. Bookings for the observatory are essential as are those for the camping. I have tentatively booked four sites to accommodate up to 24 people in tents and have not confirmed numbers for the observatory at all - payment for the observatory will be required by the end of February. If you are interested in coming to all or part of the trip please email, give me a call or register by 12th February so that I can finalise bookings and itinerary. Those registering later may not get in to the observatory. Trip Leader is John Cahill on 0439 922 338 or email: president@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
TAKE ANOTHER BIGHT. Easter plus. Friday April 2nd to Sunday 11th 2110. The plan is a continuation of a trip some years ago cut short by bad weather and the wheels falling off! Hopefully this time neither will occur. We will leave on Good Friday and travel to Caiguna on the Nullabor, then south to the cliffs on the Bight. We will then travel west along the old overland telegraph line and the beaches to Esperance. Spectacular scenery, the huge cliffs on the Bight, Toolina Cove, 100mt high Bilbunya Dunes and the magnificent bays and beaches of Cape Arid and Le Grande National Parks. Total distance is around 2250km with over 500 on Bush Tracks and Beaches. Bush camping all the way. Possible 2 nights in Esperance at the end of the trip. Some old and not so old historical sites such as Baxter Cliffs, Rossiter Bay, Torsion Bar Hill and Slightly Damp Camp. Register your interest now by emailing newtons09@hotmail.com for the selection criteria and addition information sheet. Trip Leader Simon Newton. PLEASE NOTE: CLOSING DATE FOR THIS TRIP IS FEBRUARY 10TH to allow planning to begin as I will be away from March 8th to 31st. If you would like to go but not in your own car you may be able to pair up with someone traveling alone and save costs.
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TRIP PROMOTIONS / INFORMATION FAMILY FRIENDLY PICNIC/BBQ/PIZZA : SUNDAY 18TH APRIL LOCATION: Lake Monger (North side of the lake-car park off Dodd St) TIME: From 12.00pm This event offers the chance for a relaxed social gathering at a well known recreational spot. The date of the event means it will provide an excellent opportunity for returnees from both Simon’s “Second Bight” and the Easter Trip to share and compare stories. The location has access to playgrounds for small children as well as a combined pedestrian/cycle path around the lake. On site BBQ’s are available. In addition to the picnic/bbq choices, a 3rd option should be available. “Little Caesars” pizzeria from Mundaring has responded to continually expanding customer demand by recently opening a second site in Leederville. They have won multiple awards including many from international pizza competitions. I unfortunately have no financial interest in their operations though I have been an enthusiastic customer for years. Until recently they have only operated in the evenings. They have now started trialling opening for weekend lunch times. I will arrange for copies of the pizza menu to be available at the lake and will co-ordinate a bulk order and collection if anyone wishes to avoid slaving over a hot BBQ. BRING: Food, drinks, folding chairs etc (+ bicycle if you wish - wearing Lycra is a matter between you and your conscience). CONTACT: Tom Minto (9382 4678) if you have any queries. I will check nearer the date to confirm the “Little Caesars” option continues to be available.
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC
TRIP PROMOTIONS / INFORMATION
South Coast Wandering Nina McLaren & Ian Johnson are heading south to cool off, and wander about after the school holidays. You are invited to join or leave them at any time. There is no commitment to be part of a group, or be locked into any schedule – it’s their familiar random stuff! Lots of activities like camping, walking, swimming, fishing and enjoying the stunning scenery! The locations will be dependant on the weather and whim. They have in mind going first to the banks of the Blackwood River to find secret camp spots in the forest. Other possibilities are anywhere between Albany and Israelite Bay looking for quiet places. Catering is your own, but it would be nice to share some communal feasts! Camping will basic all the way with occasional caravan parks. Departure date will be around 8th February 2009. If you would like to join Nina & Ian please contact them on (mob) 0427 936 566 or (h) 9448 5419 or echidnawrx@westnet.com.au
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CLUB CALENDAR February 2010 S Tue 2nd Committee Meeting 1 2 3 4 5 6 Tue 9th General Meeting Sat 13th: Karakamia wildlife park (p 6) 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Sat 27th to March 1st Carey Brook (see 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 page 8-9) S
M
T
W
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F
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
March 2010 S
M
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S Tue 2nd Committee Meeting 1 2 3 4 5 6 Tue 9th General Meeting Sat 20th, Sun 21st Gingin observatory 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 (see page 12) 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
April 2010 S Fri 2nd-Mon 5th Easter Trip Holland Track (see pages 18-20) 1 2 3 Fri 2nd-Sun 11th Take Another Bight 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (see page 13) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Tue 6th Committee Meeting 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Tue 13th General Meeting Sun 18th BBQ Lake Monger (page 14) 25 26 27 28 29 30 23rd-26th LWE Northcliffe S
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May 2010 S Tue 4th Committee Meeting Sat 9th Kaarakin Busy–Bee 1 30 31 Tue 11th General Meeting 2 3 4 5 6 7 88 Sat 15th Restaurant meal Sun 23rd Gnangara Pines 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 S
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16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
June 2010 S
6
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7
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1
2
4
5
8
9 10 11 12
3
Tue 1st Committee Meeting Tue 8th General Meeting
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 SCHOOL AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS School Holidays: Apr 2-19, July 3-19, Sept 25-Oct 11 Public holidays: March 1 April 2,5,26 June 7 Sept 27, Dec 27, 28 Potential members are most welcome to come along on any Club activities before joining. Please phone the Trip Leader for further information. Register with the trip leader if you are wanting to join a trip or social. Also contact the trip leader if you have to cancel, as we don’t want to wait for someone who does not turn up! Some trips are ideas only and may be subject to change. Some of the later trips need trip leaders – volunteers please.
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TRIP PROMOTIONS / INFORMATION HOLLAND TRACK - EASTER 2010 (2-5 APRIL) Our last trip to the Holland Track was Easter 07, so it is time for another visit. We will again be travelling from Coolgardie to Hyden. NOTE THIS TRIP WILL ONLY PROCEED WEATHER PERMITTING About the Holland Track [From the Shire of Broomehill website]: “When gold was discovered near Coolgardie, Western Australia in 1892, the rush attracted prospectors from all over Australia and indeed the world. Many of these fortune seekers arrived at Albany by steamer. At that time the Great Southern Railway had been established between Perth and Albany. The lack of direct route to the Goldfields was a barrier to the prospectors and the entrepreneurs wishing to supply goods and services to the area. On April 14 1893 John Holland and his team (Rudolph Krakouer, David Krakouer and John Carmody) left Broomehill (settled on the railway 302km south east of Perth) to cut a direct route from Broomehill in the Great Southern to the Western Australian goldfields. Several other men had attempted this task before but all had failed. Holland and his companions reached Bayley's Find (Coolgardie) on June 18 1893. They had covered nearly 330 miles of unexplored country in 2 months and 4 days, at that time cutting the longest cart road ever made in one stretch in WA. The route to the Goldfields established direct communications with the south-west of the Colony and shortened the journey by a fortnight or more. Page 18
SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC John Holland's opening up of the Holland Track to Coolgardie in 1893 resulted in an influx of prospectors to Broomehill. No doubt Broomehill storekeepers did a brisk trade! Broomehill was well and truly put on the map by Holland and his party. Holland Track also proved significant in assisting to open up the wheat belt country for settlement and through the mid 1940's. The creation of the track, the wonders, dangers and hardships along the way and the lives and stories of those who formed it and travelled along it make up a fascinating chapter of Australian history. The park in the village of Broomehill is named Holland Park after John Holland. A small monument to John Holland and his party was unveiled in 1956 on the site which they set out from 'to mark the journey of four courageous men who had carried out a remarkable trip with only bushman ship to guide them'. The Holland Track Project Working Group was formed in 1998 to protect and promote the historical aspects of the Holland Track and to develop Holland's Way as an alternative route from the Great Southern region to the eastern Goldfields using existing road networks. Broomehill was the starting point for John Holland and his team, and a 2.6km return walk departing from the John Holland Memorial located on the Great Southern Highway, providing a fantastic preview of the complete Holland track Broomehill Coolgardie 4WD experience. The South Western section of the original track, Broomehill to East Hyden, has largely been overtaken by farmland reducing the level of recreational vehicle access. However, there are still several unconnected sections of the original track that can be followed in conventional 2WD vehicles on existing and connecting wheatbelt and goldfields roads. In contrast, the bushland of the north eastern section, East Hyden to Coolgardie, remained largely neglected until 1982 when a group of local enthusiasts retraced the route taken by Holland and re-established many of the Tracks previously impassable sections. This relatively recent work has established an important and remarkable heritage trail that is now accessible to 4WD enthusiasts.�
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB NEWS Meet: Midland Gate Shopping Centre Carpark, Great Eastern Highway, Midland (see map). Time: 7.15 for 7.30am start on Good Friday 2 April. Fuel: A full tank of petrol and an additional 10-20 litres, as a range of 450kms is recommended. Bring:
All the other usuals (including water) for a camping trip in the bush with no facilities.
Trip Leader: Tony Richards - Ph: 9386 7705(H) or 9415 5616(W). ————————————————————————————————-
MT AUGUSTUS/KENNEDY RANGES Expression of Interest I have had it from reliable sources that we have not visited Mt Augustus as a club since 1990, so could be time to revisit! Am proposing a 12-13 day trip in either June or August. June could be convenient for those who work as it can tag on to the public holiday on Monday 7th June. August is more likely to see wildflowers, but as we all know these days, the season can be late or early! I am flexible anyway. I have been keen to visit these areas for a while, so am seeking expressions of interest at this stage. I have since found out that the Mt Augustus Resort is closed for redevelopment, and is uncertain when to reopen. The Shire advised me they are hoping to find a new manager asap, but that could take some time and is unlikely to be available for this trip. On the positive it means we can explore new camp sites nearby which I am currently investigating. Drop me an email, or call me if you are interested, or have any questions. josanmoss@aapt.net.au , 0423118926. Josan Moss
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORTS BEACH RUN SUNDAY 10/01/10: Tims Thicket to Myalup It was an overcast morning as 10 cars met in Baldivis for the annual southern beach run. This year, having being blessed with the opening of the Forrest Hwy bypassing Mandurah, the traffic on the old route to Mandurah was clear and we were at our bakery stop (Miami) in no time joined by our mate Simon in the Brumby. The group consisting of old timers, new members and a special guest, Phil (a ‘potential’ Forester owner), was led by Peter A. At Tim’s Thicket with tyres on road pressure we headed on to the beach for several kms (with no bogs) to show once again that our Subaru’s are understated in their off road ability. A short stop to reduce tyre pressure and we were ready for play. The clouds gave way to blue sky, the temperature warm not hot, the hum of the Subaru engine over the soft stuff as the wheels flick the sand up into the car - all the sights and sounds of a pleasant cruise along our WA coast (except for the flocks of birds being chased off by the roar of a convoy). After devouring our bakery purchase at morning tea we were presented with our first challenge. The tides favoured us today and we could navigate around a rocky point without so much as a splash on the wheel. Further on, another rocky point – slightly narrower but again navigated safely around by all.
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORTS Apart from a minor pause by Gary, for the rest of our 20 something km’s to Myalup, all our vehicles made it through the soft stuff and the bumpy stuff in good time with no bogs. The same couldn’t be said for a Landcruiser and Patrol. A few km’s south of the Whitehills entrance, at a narrower part of the beach where the track had been eroded steeply away on the water side and the sand was soft on the high side, we approached the Cruiser bogged precariously tilted toward the water. A red tractor was alongside in recovery mode. A Patrol behind us, thinking it could get around our waiting convoy gave us a perfect demonstration of how the Cruiser would have gotten bogged. As rear traction was lost on the soft stuff and the vehicle drifted gradually toward the steep drop toward the surf. The Patrol stopped short of the drop-off, reduced its tyre pressures and with a dig around the wheels recovered back on track easily. And, graciously assisted in the recovery of the Cruiser just as its defeated owners had run out of ideas. With the experience of a few old hands, a Patrol, a red tractor, some chains – the Cruiser was safely freed with applause all round. Drama comes unexpectedly and in random places, the show was over and it was our turn to get past without suffering the same fate. And success for all of us – without too much sweat. We again, had one over the heavies!! Preston Beach was reached soon after. We stopped for lunch a few kms south of the Preston Beach car park. Here, John C and Dave P wanted to test out their new recovery ropes. Threaded through fittings to model a pulley system, it was supposed to enable a single able bodied person to winch a bogged car by pulling on the rope. A few attempts with two able bodied men did not reap success, and the instruction leaflet was soon brought out. Or was it the ‘money back guarantee’? I’m sure they’ll be busy studying what went wrong and show us success the next time round. Page 22
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORTS As two cars were intentionally bogged for this lunch time demonstration, the ever resourceful Simon who I remember as using tin foil in an attempt to fix a battery problem a few years back, brought out his gadgets from the back of his Brumby. A steel perforated plate (ex military air strip material) recovered John’s car and some galvanised steel drain covers were tried on Dave’s vehicle recovery but failed to get traction with the tyres. A push got Dave out in the end. All this while Sean and Liam were enjoying the pounding surf. Unfortunately it was time to go. The cruise in the afternoon was pleasantly calm and serene except for a short hoon by Tony clocking up 110 km/h on the sand. It didn’t take too much suggestion before Phil T took his bonnet scoop up to a mere 100 km/h to see if he could catch any birds. Fortunately not. A good effort but no match for our adrenaline junky Tony. We were in Myalup by 3pm. We covered the stretch of coast line in great time. I hope we have managed to convince special guest Phil that our Subarus are not only handsome but also capable wherever the great outdoors takes us. Thanks to all for a marvellous day!! All photos courtesy of Keith Wilcox Page 23
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORTS LUCKY BAY AUSTRALIA DAY LONG WEEKEND 23-26TH JANUARY It was just after 8.30am when half a dozen Foresters left Ginger's Roadhouse on the Great Northern Highway bound for Lucky Bay. In addition to the usual camping gear, two Foresters bore kayaks. Dave Peck would later remark that having two kayaks mounted on the roof rack had a considerable effect on both fuel consumption (about 400km's on a full tank) and performance. We were soon on to the Brand Highway and making such good time that we passed the first planned stop at Cataby and had morning tea further down the road. Later, as we passed the Western Flora and Fauna Park at Eneabba we had a brief moment of excitement as the Google Street View car went past. Watch out for the convoy online soon. Whilst we maintained good convoy procedure and took care not to hold up other road users, the same cannot be said for some other drivers. Most notably, the white Triton towing a boat which decided to stay in the right hand lane all the way along the overtaking lane, leaving most of the convoy to pass it in the left hand lane. This also delayed a yellow Toyota ute with a moto-cross bike in the tray. The Toyota decided to cross the double white line and pass us all on the wrong side of the road. It just shows how discourteous driving leads to impatience which leads to dangerous situations. Fortunately, we all arrived safely at the magnificent Lucky Bay. As we approached we heard Simon over the radio. He and Anne had arrived Page 24
SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC some time earlier and had been scouting ahead for somewhere to set up camp. A good spot was found and Alex and I pitched our new pop-up tent for the first time. It only took about 5 seconds including taking it out of the bag, then we stood there wondering if we would be able to remember how to fold it up again at the end of the weekend. Dismissing that thought we set about the official club business of eating and socialising in a magnificent setting before turning in for the night. Even if we were slightly further away from the coast than we are at home, we still fell asleep listening to the sound of the waves breaking on the shore at the end of another enjoyable Subaru Club day. Thanks to Keith Wilcox for his efforts in arranging a weekend that we thoroughly enjoyed. Rob Hurst ————————————————————————————————Lucky Bay Trip ReportSunday 24/01/10 I was up very early with an impatient Mr Bingley ready for his morning walk. It was a beautiful overcast day, a welcome relief from the hot days we’ve had in Perth recently. The night had been uneventful and the wind had not been as strong as expected. We had a leisurely start to the day as certain members of the group had enjoyed a “particularly good red” the previous evening. We set off at 9.30am over the dunes. Tyre pressures were down to 15psi but then lowered to 12psi as some of the group got bogged at the top of the first big dune. There were some exciting down-hill bumpy rides which Mr Bingley handled very well. We eventually reached the sheltered waters at Lucky Page 25
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TRIP & SOCIAL REPORTS Bay and lined up the seven Foresters and one Brumby by the water’s edge. The more adventurous went snorkelling and were treated to a spectacular show of multicoloured coral, nudibranchs and fish, including a large number of blue spotted sting rays. We had lunch as the ocean started to lap around some of the car’s tyres. So there was some hasty repositioning of vehicles above the high water mark, then out came the kayaks for the energetic members of the group to go paddling around the bay. Others did a bit of beach combing or just relaxed and watched. A resident Sea Eagle demonstrated his diving skills for a while right over our heads which included a spectacular plunge into the bay only a few metres from us. We all headed back to camp via the beach route. There were no more incidences of bogging but a bit of sideways driving action. Then back at the camp there was time to relax before we all came to the painful realisation that even through the cloud we had got sunburnt. Wendy Griffiths All photos courtesy of Keith Wilcox THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE HELD BY THE SUBARU 4WD CLUB OF W.A. INC. Please send articles to the Editor by the Thursday before the end of the month (earlier is better). Email: editor@subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au in Word format or plain text; Subaru 4WD Club WA Website: http://www.subaru4wdclubwa.asn.au Page 26
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GENERAL MEETING MINUTES The Subaru 4WD Club of Western Australia Inc. Minutes of the General Meeting held on Tuesday 12th January 2010 at Wembley Community Centre. Present: As per Attendance Book. Meeting Opened: 19.37hrs Apologies: Karl Boeing, Roz Carey, Matt Ward. Visitors: None. Previous Minutes: Proposed by Tony Richards, seconded by Rob Griffiths. Business Arising: None. Correspondence in: Drive Torque Magazine. Subanews. Twin Diffs. Seal-Lock Products. Expo Statement. Town of Cambridge Room hire agreement. Town of Cambridge invoice - $50. Membership renewals: Gail and Reg Woods; Ruth and Pender Pedlar; Greg and Tracey Reinikka (Social); Robert McKenzie; Phil and Sook. Email – Philip Read re. Thanks for Myalup trip visit. Letter from DEC re. Lochada. Correspondence out: Keith Low – Emails re. Membership renewals (various). Tony Richards – Philip Read (re. Myalup) and Jan Hankinson (re. Wilbinga). Josan Moss – Greg at Kaarakin. Business Arising: Nil. Treasurers Report: Balance at the bank on 31/12/2009 of $5,376.07. Less $50.00 refund of membership dues to Carol Poole (cheque not presented). Merchandise: Polo shirts without pocket = $23.00; with pocket $27.00. Jackets = $35.00. Beanies = $11.00. See Tony Richards re. special orders as a decision has been made not to place any bulk orders. Biz collection can be viewed online for individual merchandise requirements. Tony will investigate the availability
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SUBARU 4WD CLUB of W.A. INC of long sleeved polo shirts. Club history book is now available for a reduced price of $20. 4WD Association: Tony was unable to attend the December meeting. Clean up date for Wilbinga is TBC. Three Track Care adoptions are in progress – awaiting DEC. A CSR sub-committee has been formed. The 4WD trail from Mundaring to Collie is still being developed. Murchison 4WD show will be in June. A vehicle left at Lancelin was vandalised recently. Magazine: Closing date for submissions to be 28/01/2010. Filler items are most welcome. Trips and Social: The Club expressed its thanks to Peter for organising an excellent beach run. It was well attended by members (new and old) and visitors. The club even assisted in the recovery of a Land Cruiser. Peter emphasised the importance of paying attention to tyre pressures when running on soft terrain. Tony Richards is unable to lead the Carey Brook trip. A volunteer to take his place is required (Tony will arrange and hand over to the new leader). Gingin must be booked soon. Please contact John Cahill by end of January. Tony Richards will be leading a trip along the Holland Track at Easter. See Magazine for full trip details. Website: Robert updated the meeting on the progress of the website and hinted that a sneak preview may be available to the committee soon. Functionality was stated as up to 80% of the old site with many developments to come. General Business: John Cahill read out a letter from DEC thanking the Club for the effort put in to assist in the restoration of the former pastoral lease. Jim Wilcox will liaise with DEC regarding a new station for the Club to work. Meeting Closed: 20.36hrs. Following the meeting was a DVD show and social.
Addition: The committee has given approval for non-Subaru vehicles to be taken on the Take Another Bight Trip.
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Essential Distress Beacon Information
After 1 Feb 2010, it will be illegal to use a 121.5 MHz Distress beacon for ANY purpose. From 1 February 2009, 121.5 MHz distress beacons are no longer detected by satellite – you must switch to a 406 MHz distress beacon as soon as possible. Do not risk your life by using a 121.5 MHz distress beacon. Supply The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has done everything that it can to stimulate supply of 406 MHz distress beacons that meet Australian Standards. Ultimately, market supply is a matter for manufacturers and distributors. If you experience shortage of supply please contact the manufacturers and distributors directly. A list of distress beacon models approved and available for sale in Australia can be viewed here.
Warning 121.5 MHz distress beacons should no longer be offered for sale without the seller advising you that they will no longer be licensed for distress alerting from 1 February 2009 and will no longer be detected by satellite from this date. Please advise AMSA if you are offered a 121.5 MHz distress beacon without an appropriate warning. Page 30
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121.5 MHz distress beacons are no longer a suitable distress alerting device.
Legislation State and Territory marine authorities regulate recreational vessels and fishing vessels within their jurisdiction. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority regulates aircraft. Please address any questions about enforcement of 406 MHz distress beacon carriage regulations to your relevant State or Territory authority.
Search and Rescue From 1 February 2009, 121.5 MHz distress beacons are no longer be detected by the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system. The 121.5 MHz signal will only be detected by chance over-flight by aircraft that listen on this frequency. There is no guarantee that the signal will be detected – and it may never be heard. For more information, click here. Do not risk your life on a 121.5 MHz beacon. AMSA advises boat users not to go beyond 2 nautical miles from shore without a 406 MHz distress beacon or we may not be able to locate you if you find yourself in a distress situation. Please ensure you register your 406 MHz distress beacon with AMSA. Further information can be found at: http://beacons.amsa.gov.au/essential_info.html#howdoes
SUPER STRONG SUMPGUARD– 1 ONLY LEFT! Ian Johnson has only one of his custom made sump guards left, for $150, so get in quick! Contact Ian on (mob) 0427 936 566 or (h) 9448 5419 or email: echidnawrx@westnet.com.au
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