ON PATROL - The Magazine of the Nissan Patrol 4WD Club of NSW & ACT Inc. July 2016
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ON
PATROL
No 14.
The Magazine of the
Nissan Patrol 4WD Club
of NSW & ACT Inc.
July 2016
1
Nissan Patrol 4WD Club
General Meetings
2nd Wednesday of each month at the
Veteran Car Club
134 Queens Road
Five Dock NSW 2046
Meeting starts at 8.00 pm
Visitors are welcome
Club mail can be sent to:
Nissan Patrol 4WD Club
PO Box 249
FIVE DOCK NSW 2046
Nissan Patrol 4WD Club
of NSW & ACT
CONTENTS
Website 3 Radio Channels 22
About the Club 4 Convoy Procedure 23
Editorial 5 TR1 - 40th Anniversary Celebrations 25
Committee Members 6 Down the Track 32
President's Report 7 Up the Creek 34
New Members 9 Top Tip 35
Birthdays 10 A-Z of NSW National Parks 36
Get to Know ... 11 Nature Lover 38
Driver Training & Working Bees 13 Club Shop 41
Club Library 43
Club Calendar 14 Club Noticeboard 44
Leaders, New Trips & Bookings 20 Camping Checklist 45
Trip Classification 21 Trade Directory 46
The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Nissan Patrol
4WD Club of NSW & ACT Inc. The Club and its officers do not expect nor invite any
person to act or rely on any statement, opinion or advice.
Front Cover: Fiona driving Chris C's GU, showing the Newbies
how to go through the Wombat Holes at Driver Training.
2
CLUB
WEBSITE
The Nissan Patrol 4WD Club website, www.nissanpatrolclub.org includes a "members
only" area with access to details of upcoming trips and other news/information not meant
for public consumption. To be issued a user name and password to access the website,
please send an e-mail with your name and mobile phone number to
webmaster[at]nissanpatrolclub.org
Put "password required" in the subject area of the e-mail. After we have verified your
details, you will receive an e-mail with your log-in information.
For those members who may not be aware, the club sends out, on average, 1 or 2 emails
per week with club related information. Some weeks it can be more and other weeks none
at all. The club relies on these emails as being one of the key points of communication to
all members, and feedback and replies to these emails is often requested from members.
There is currently quite a large percentage of club members who are not receiving the
emails sent out by the club. If this is you, I encourage you to please check your junk
folders or spam folders within your email program to make sure the emails aren't ending
up in them, and to make sure you don't mark them as spam, be it accidentally or on
purpose.
If you do not wish to continue receiving club emails, please click on the unsubscribe
button/link that appears at the bottom of the emails.
I also encourage you to log-in and check the Member's Zone on the club website on a
regular basis, as plenty of additional club information is posted up here relating to club
trips, social events, technical articles and general detailed club information.
If you have any questions or concerns relating to emails or accessing the Member's Zone,
please contact me at webmaster[at]nissanpatrolclub.org.
Kind regards,
Brett
Webmaster
www.nissanpatrolclub.org
3
NISSAN PATROL 4WD CLUB
OF NSW & ACT INC.
About the Club
The Nissan Patrol 4WD Club was established in 1976 by a group of four-wheel drive enthusiasts
from other clubs interested in pursuing common interests and activities in 4WD'ing, and also aiming
to give the Nissan Patrol its own identity. Although named for the Nissan Patrol, the Club
welcomes all types of four-wheel drives capable of completing our driver training course.
In 2002, the Club fulfilled a long-held dream and purchased its own property of 94 hectares in the
Windellama region near Goulburn. The land is used for Club activities such as bush camping,
driver training and social activities. There is also a dam on the property which provides a reliable
source of water for bush fire fighting.
In May 2006, our initial idea of a large shelter/shed came into fruition and was finally completed.
The shed acts as our bush classroom which allows us to easily host our Driver Training Courses. It
is also the place where we have our Easter, Xmas In July and Club Anniversary weekends, and is
available for free camping by members at any time.
Front
View
Back
View
The club atmosphere is, and always has been, to have fun and develop long lasting friendships from
a wide variety of people from all over Sydney, Canberra and surrounding areas.
The club holds regular driver training days for all members, trips from
one day to several weeks' duration (such as outback trips) and a variety
of social activities.
Club trips are graded depending on the degree of difficulty to cater for
all levels of four-wheel driving. On trips, the traditional “happy hour”
and campfire provide a wonderful setting for swapping yarns, having a
quiet drink and building solid friendships.
We are strongly committed to “Access for All” (except ratbags) in our National Parks and State
Forests, protecting the environment through responsible four-wheel driving and helping to 'Clean-
Up Australia' by cleaning up our bushland.
Since 1980, the Club has been hosting varying types of events for the general public to enjoy in
their 4WD’s. In past years there were the annual Nissan Trials, which saw inter-club challenges
testing the driving skills of both individuals and teams.
In line with current community expectation and demand, the Club
is running the Son of Trials at River Island on the first weekend of
November. These events offer standard road registered vehicle
owners, from learner drivers through to experienced 4WD’ers, to
participate in a number of challenging courses to fine tune their
skills and the chance to win some fantastic prizes.
For further information about the Club, please go to our website at www.nissanpatrolclub.org
4
From the
Editors
Dear Members and Friends,
Well, we're back from the Big Red Bash & Flinders Ranges trip and now the rush is on to get this
edition of the magazine finished and on the website, then printed and posted.
As much as I try to keep the information in the magazine up-to date, late changes and new trip
additions sometimes do occur and usually just after printing. So the best way for you to check any
changes is to regularly visit the website.
I have returned Fiona back to the Committee List as "2nd Assistant", as she
is the one who is usually around when I need another opinion.
While I'm at it, I may as well add Scotty as he is the one I turn to for any
technical questions I need answered.
And as mentioned in a previous mag, Ruby is in charge of my stress /
anger management. So this magazine is really a family effort.
A huge note of thanks to all those who helped and attended Our Club's 40th Anniversary over the
June long weekend. A great time was had by all and we look forward to having you all back for the
Club's 45th.
Note: There is a special invitation on page 14. All Club members are welcome.
Keep On Patrolling!
Tania & Iro & Fiona & Scott & Ruby
Next magazine due
10 October 2016
All articles for the next magazine MUST be sent in a
Microsoft Word format and forwarded to
editor[at]nissanpatrolclub.org
or mailed to
The Editor, NPC,
PO Box 249, Five Dock NSW 2046
by 30 September 2016.
Advertising Charges:
If you would like to advertise Full Page $400 p/a
in this magazine, please contact Half Page $250 p/a
Quarter Page $100 p/a
editor[at]nissanpatrolclub.org Business Card $50 p/a
Members Business Card - FREE
5
NISSAN PATROL 4WD CLUB
OF NSW & ACT INC.
PO Box 249
FIVE DOCK NSW 2046
Club website: www.nissanpatrolclub.org
ISSN 1446-0718
2016-2017 COMMITTEE MEMBERS,
ASSISTANTS & OFFICE BEARERS
COMMITTEE
President Kenneth
Vice President Bruce
Secretary POSITION VACANT
Treasurer Christopher
Membership Secretary Steven
Trip Organiser Murray
Training Co-Ordinator Chris
Land Manager Mark
Editor Tania
Social Convener Stephen
ASSISTANTS
Assistant Membership Janelle
Assist Training Co-Ord Christiaan
Assistant Land Manager Scott
Assistant Editors Iro
Fiona
Assist Social Convener Colleen
OFFICE BEARERS
Publicity Officer POSITION VACANT
Webmaster Brett
Purchasing Officer Michael
Technical Officer Ray
Equipment Officer Ross
Librarian Paul
Sergeant-at-Arms Wendy
Auditor/s Dave
Rollanda
Please contact the President if you would like to join the Committee
and have a part in the running of YOUR Club.
6
The Report from
El-Prez
Dear Members,
I cannot believe it is now coming to the end of July. Some major topics that have been discussed
at the Committee and General Meetings are.
1. Sydney 4WD & Adventure Show
14-16 October 2016 Western Sydney International Dragway, Eastern Creek.
As a club, we have had a stand at this show over the past few years. It has been a very good
promotional tool to have our Clubs profile kept in front of the market. Your Club is currently
arranging this year's stand and we are seeking expressions of interest from Volunteers. Over the
years, we have continually reviewed our processes and improved each time. Again, we have
learnt from the past, and we will be having a different operational format this year to ensure we
continue to display a professional presentation. If you wish to donate some time to help set up /
pull down, Man the Stand, over the Friday / Saturday / Sunday, then please contact myself on my
email.
2. Son of Trials,
It is planned that we recommence this event to maintain our service to the greater 4WD
Community. However, to ensure a successful event, we need Volunteers (both Experienced and
new people) who are willing to be committed to this event. Everybody will be given a full
Induction and Training to ensure everybody fully understands their roles and responsibilities.
Therefore, before we commit ourselves, I need expressions of interest from all Members, Family
and Friends alike to make up a good number as required. Again if you are interested please
contact me on
Remember, this is your Club, Run by Volunteers. Please Volunteer some of your time.
Other areas to stay aware of are.
Trips.
We are forever increasing our members trips from 1 day to weeks on end, and we need Member/s
to think about a trip you would like to lead from the Non Dusty End (ie the Front). it is not that
hard and you can draw on many years experience from other Members who have been trip
leaders.
Driver Training.
Many people think this is for New Members or Existing Members to complete other Modules like
Advanced Driver. It is much more than that, any member can complete their refresher course, or
just tag along for a great weekend, you may just remember something you forgot the first time
around. You can show your skills learnt to your family / mates, if they are brave enough to
be a passenger, (or maybe not).
7
Plus
- It is a great time to meet other members and 4WD enthusiasts,
- Tell stories either short / Long / Fact or Fiction around the campfire,
- Build lifelong friendships,
- Share and Discover better ways of Camping / Cooking / 4WDriving,
- Vehicle setups / repairs / maintenance etc.
- Get away from your Family or bring them along,
Our driver trainers, headed by Chris C have a vast array of knowledge and experience and are
willing to pass this onto you (if you want extra driver training personal tuition, Chris is partial to
Sticky Date Pudding with Ice Cream and Custard).
Our Committee Personnel and you as Members are all equally important to the growth of this
great club, uphold that tradition and become involved in some way.
On behalf of the Committee and all Members, we all look forward to seeing you.
Regards
Ken
President
NEVER UPSET A WOMAN ...
WHO CAN DRIVE A BOBCAT !!!
8
The Club would like to acknowledge and Welcome the following
New Members who have joined us over the last 3 months.
Wayne C & Barbara D
Kane, Mel, Jessica, Chloe & Brodie L
John & Norma M
Jiwei R, Min L & Sean R
Tony & Madlin S
And after a short time away,
Georgia A
Brian, Glenys, Sean, Liam, Renee & Kyle D
Christopher, Nada, Anton, Mia & Spencer E
Christopher, Rachel, Rhiannon, Esther & Felicity G
We hope you all have an enjoyable, friendly and fulfilling
time with the Club and stay with us well into the future.
9
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
We wish the following Club Members a very Happy Birthday.
JULY 30 John S 1 Leslie H
1 Rebecca F 31 Suzette W 1 Jazmine K
1 Jessica L 3 Miya F
1 David P AUGUST 9 Greg A
4 Sarah P 1 Richard P 11 Beth W
4 Madlin S 3 Ben P 12 Saba A
4 Mark S 3 Fiona S 12 Jack E
5 Milan P 5 Liam D 13 Carlos D
6 Brian D 5 Peter O 14 Laura B
7 Michael C 6 Anne A 14 Russell E
8 Susan S 6 Thomas K 15 Murray R
9 Ron F 6 Stefan P 16 Chris H
9 Tony L 7 Jan D 16 Carol Li
11 Janelle A 7 Olga E 16 Min L
11 Brett M 7 Joseph P 16 Andrew M
11 Kim M 7 Raymond T 16 Caleb S
11 Sarah R 8 Douglas W 17 Michelle B
11 Katrina T 9 Samuela G 17 Sally L
12 Brett C 11 Elisabeth W 18 Madeleine T
12 John E 11 Eveline W 18 Brendan V
12 Harold P 13 Chloe J 19 John B
13 Peta R 14 Jennifer E 20 Siena G
14 Meg R 16 Stella G 20 Georgia S
16 Scott D 16 Tatjana P 21 Allan B
18 Barb L 17 Sharon Re 21 Nicholas M
18 Susan S 18 Maximus L 22 Guorong D
18 Jean W 18 Alan S 22 Phillip L
23 Kiara P 18 Steve S 22 Tania S
24 George H 19 Margaret B 22 Zanny W
25 Bruce C 19 Tatiana V 23 Rene V
25 Sealand G 20 Ewan V 24 Mercedes B
25 Grace M 20 Stephen V 24 Chloe L
25 John St 20 Mirah W 25 Fabrizio C
26 Michael B 24 Leo G 25 Julie Z
26 Jonathan C 25 Renata S 26 Brooke S
26 Carol C 28 Wayne C 27 Slaven P
26 Raymond S 30 Felicity G 29 Phillipe C
27 Sue B 31 Danny W 29 Slobodan J
27 Mark T 29 Anne K
28 Liz O SEPTEMBER 29 Nicholas P
30 Wendy E 1 Chaudhry A
30 Tony R 1 Marcel C
If your birthday is not on this list,
please contact Tania at editior[at]nissanpatrolclub.org
10GET TO KNOW ...
Club Member
IRO S
BORN: Sydney 1964
LIVES AT: Bossley Park
OCCUPATION: Boiler Technician.
FAMILY: Wife - Tania,
Kids - Scott & Fiona
PETS: Ruby - Mini Fox Terrier
Chooky the Cockatiel.
HOBBIES: Eating & Drinking Cape York - Aug 2013
NPC MEMBER SINCE: 13 April 2005
CLUB POSITIONS HELD: Assistant Land Manager 2012, Editor & Technical 2013,
Assistant Editor & Technical 2014, Library 2015, 1st Assistant Editor 2016.
VEHICLE: 2005 Nissan Patrol GU 4.2 TD ST-L (Stacey-Lee)
TYRES: Cooper AT Roadies &
Bridgestone KM2 Muddies
MODIFICATIONS: 43% reduction gears, front & rear
diff locks, 2" lift, Mark Matchbox for speedo, catchcan,
rock sliders, Steel bull bar with winch, steel rear bar,
ARB roof rack, Outback drawer system, gauge pod
with boost, oil pressure & dual battery, Auber digital
pyro gauge, Ironman pro shocks, UHF Radio, 720mm
HPD intercooler, 17p boost, tickled pump. Ayres Rock - April 2015
FUTURE MODS: NIL Celebrating 10 Years with the NPC
FIRST VEHICLE: 1978 Toyota Corolla KE
PAST VEHICLES: 1986 Ford Laser Ghia Hatchback (Sarah),
1992 Ford Laser Sedan (Sarah II),
2000 Mazda MPV (The Van), [then the Patrol],
+ 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Aspire (Lucy).
OTHER VEHICLE: 2013 Isuzu D-Max tray ute (Max)
TYRES: Standard Bridgestone
MODS: Catchcan, ARB Bullbar, ARB bash plates, ARB side steps, Rhino roof rack.
FUTURE MODS: Maybe a storage bin in tray.
DREAM VEHICLE: Can't decide on a Unimog
OR a Mini Cooper Rally (Hopefully both).
TENT OR TOW: Depends on where and for how long.
Jet Bunker (swag on stilts) when by myself
2 x 3 person tents for trips with the family - for quick set-up and packing.
OzTent RV5 for 1-2 nights in one place with the family.
Looking into getting a new camper trailer - maybe?
11FIRST CLUB TRIP: Lithgow Powerlines 2007
FAVOURITE TRIP: Morton Island 2012
MOST VISITED PLACE (other than club land):
River Island - for Trials and New Member Weekends.
WORST TRIP: Mt Airly - when we had to reverse
down the mountain.
FUTURE TRIPS: Would like to go to WA, Tasmania,
and maybe Cape York again.
Vic High Country - Feb 2015
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE CLUB DO IN THE FUTURE?
" Keg & Stripper Night in the Shed ".
Then possibly "Shed Rebuild" a week later.
WHAT THE CLUB MEANS TO ME.
Touring new places and happy times with good friends.
Simpson Desert - July 2011 The Big Bog Morton Island - Oct 2012
Club Land - March 2012
P&E offer a range of services for your
4WD including:
Log Book Servicing
Pre Trip Checks
Suspension
Intercooler Upgrade Kits
Engine & Drive Line Upgrades
(Diff Locks, Reduction & Overdrive Gears)
Plus Much More
We are also a retailer for
Mickey Thompson Tyres.
Call us or call in today for a quote or booking.
12DRIVER TRAINING
With Chris C
Driver Training Co-ordinator
The Nissan Patrol 4WD Club provides free driver training to its members, which is included in your
membership fee. The Driver Training Course covers a comprehensive range of topics. Some of
these topics teach you practical driving over a variety of terrain and obstacles. Our courses are
Basic Driver Training, Basic Recovery Techniques, Advanced Driver Training, Advanced Recovery,
and many more.
Before you are permitted on a Club Trip, it is a condition of Club Membership that you complete
the Club Basic Driver Training Course, regardless of your prior 4WD'ing experience.
The Basic Driver Training Course is conducted on our own land near Goulburn, where a range of
purposely built tracks give the course participants a variety of track surfaces. Our Land also has
facilities to conduct other educational functions, such as GPS Operation and First Aid. Our Club
shop is regularly at Driver Training selling top quality recovery gear, 4WD essentials and Club
merchandise at very reasonable prices.
Anyone who wishes to do the Recovery Refresher Course is most welcome to join any Basic Driver
Training Sunday at the Club Land. Our driver trainers are looking forward to all our club members
attending and revising the safety and recovery techniques that make our 4WDriving a safer and
more enjoyable activity for all.
See the Club Calendar for the next Driver Training weekend.
WORKING BEES
With
Mark S Scott D
Land Manager Assistant Manager
Working bees sound like they would be a lot of hard work. BUT, our club working bees usually
have very little work and then you are free to do whatever you want. Regular working bees are held
to help with land maintenance.
At the Land, there is the opportunity to help establish new driver training tracks, assist with the
shed, tank and toilet/shower facilities, collect and cut up firewood, then have a chat around the
fireplace and an excellent Saturday night dinner at “The Loaded Dog” in Tarago.
Please consider helping out at the land, and contact the Land Managers to enable them to organise
work activities and catering.
See the club Calendar for the next Working Bee weekend.
13CLUB CALENDAR
Included are the dates of NSW School Holidays
to help with your holiday planning.
DAY TRIP:
We are looking for members to organise a social event for a day.
Be it tennis, golf, bowling, see a game, a movie, a show, a museum, BBQ lunch in a
park, or dinner at a restaurant. Whatever you want.
There are so many things to do and see in this wonderful city.
Just pick one.
July 2016
Sat 2nd to NSW School Holidays
Sun 17th
Sat 2nd to BIG RED BASH / FLINDERS RANGES:
Sat 16th Meeting in Charleville Qld, then heading for Birdsville and setting up camp at Big Red
before the 3 day concert starting on Monday 4th. Tickets for the Concert must be
purchased in advance. After the concert, head down the Birdsville Track to the Flinders
Ranges including Arkaroola, Willow Springs and Wilpena Pound, then back to Sydney
via Broken Hill.
Sun 3rd to SIMPSON DESERT & RED CENTRE:
Sat 23rd Grade C. Meeting in Bourke, this trip will take you to Australia's red centre and going
(21 days Approx) through Camerons Corner, Simpson Desert, Mt Dare, Alice Springs, West Macdonnell
Ranges, Kings Canyon, Ayers Rock, Coober Pedy, and possibly to Lake Eyre. Limited
convoy, so be quick. Some campsites need to be booked in advance.
Wed 13th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock.
Sat 16th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 17th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must
complete the Driver Training course before going on a Club trip.
Wed 27th COMMITTEE MEETING:
Club Committee Meeting. 8:00pm at Greenacre Citizens Hall, 202 Waterloo Road,
Greenacre. All members welcome!
Sat 30th to LAND WORKING BEE: TO BE CONFIRMED
Sun 31st Help is needed with many of the projects happening down on our
Land. Great camping and socialising.
14August 2016
Mon 1st to CAPE YORK PENINSULA:
Sun 28th Grade C: Meeting in Cairns, then drive to Cooktown and Laura NP with side trips to
Cape Melville-Chilly Beach. Then to the top via the Old Telegraph Track. Visit
Thursday Island and return via Weipa.
Wed 10th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock.
Fri 12th to Mid North Coast Caravan Camping 4WD Show:
Sun 14th Wauchope Showground, Beechwood Road
www.ruralscene.com.au
Sat 13th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 14th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must
complete the Driver Training course before going on a Club trip.
Sun 14th to FLINDERS RANGES & STRZELECKI TRACK:
Sat 27th Grade C / B if wet. Meeting in Silverton, then it's two weeks of travelling through the
spectacular northern Flinders Ranges, Gammon Ranges area and then along the
Strzelecki Track. Explore the historical mining and desert areas, experience stunning
mountain vistas with great camping and top driving among these amazing geological
wonders.
Wed 24th COMMITTEE MEETING:
Club Committee Meeting. 8.00pm at Greenacre Citizens Hall, 202 Waterloo Road,
Greenacre. All members welcome.
Sat 27th to LAND WORKING BEE: TO BE CONFIRMED
Sun 28th Help is needed with many of the projects happening down on our
Land. Great camping and socialising.
September 2016
Fri 9th to Penrith Caravan Camping 4WD Show:
Sun 11th Penrith Panthers Exhibition Centre
www.penrith.supershow.com.au/
Wed 14th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock.
Fri 16th to Orana Caravan Camping 4WD Show:
Sun 18th Dubbo Showground, Cnr Fitzroy & Wingewarra Street
www.ruralscene.com.au
Sat 17th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 18th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must complete the Driver
Training course before going on a Club trip.
Sat 24th to NSW School Holidays
Sun 9th Oct
15Sat 24th to LAND WORKING BEE & Tania's 50th:
Sun 25th Help is needed with many of the projects happening down on our
Land. Saturday night, Tania is celebrating her 50th birthday with a
catered dinner for all - BYO drinks.
Wed 28th COMMITTEE MEETING:
Club Committee Meeting. 8.00pm at Greenacre Citizens Hall, 202 Waterloo Road,
Greenacre. All members welcome.
October 2016
Sat 1st to Labour Day Weekend
Mon 3rd
Sat 1st to LONG WEEKEND AT THE LAND:
Mon 3rd Enjoy a relaxing weekend with other members at the Club Land. Drive around the land
during the day and see the local sites, have Saturday dinner at the Dog, watch a movie
or two on Sunday.
Sat 1st to Willowglen 4x4 Challenge
Mon 3rd Tarago near Goulburn - www.tlcc.com.au
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS SPRING
BEGINS FORWARD
Wed 12th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock.
Thur 13th to 4WD & Adventure Show:
Sun 16th Sydney Dragway, Eastern Creek - www.4wdshow.com.au/
Once again, our club will have a stand at this year's show. We are now looking for
volunteers to help with set-up on Thursday and man the stand for the following 3 days.
Sat 15th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 16th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must
complete the Driver Training course before going on a Club trip.
Wed 26th COMMITTEE MEETING:
Club Committee Meeting. 8.00pm at Greenacre Citizens Hall, 202 Waterloo Road,
Greenacre. All members welcome.
Sat 29th to LAND WORKING BEE: TO BE CONFIRMED
Sun 30th Help is needed with many of the projects happening down on our
Land. Great camping and socialising.
16November 2016
Fri 4th to South Coast Caravan Camping & Holiday Expo:
Sun 6th McKay Park, Batemans Bay - www.southcoast.supershow.com.au/
Wed 9th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock.
Sat 12th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 13th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must
complete the Driver Training course before going on a Club trip.
Wed 23rd COMMITTEE MEETING:
Club Committee Meeting. 8.00pm at Greenacre Citizens Hall, 202 Waterloo Road,
Greenacre. All members welcome.
Sat 26th to LAND WORKING BEE: TO BE CONFIRMED
Sun 27th Help is needed with many of the projects happening down on our
Land. Great camping and socialising.
Sat 26th to CHRISTMAS PARTY WEEKEND:
Sun 27th A fun family weekend at Toowoon Bay Holiday Park, 1 Koongara Street, Toowoon
Bay. Powered camp sites start from $38 for two nights for two people. Camp kitchen,
pool, jumping pillow, playground and a short walk to the beach.
December 2016
Wed 14th GENERAL MEETING:
Visitors Welcome!
8:00pm at the Veteran Car Club Hall, 134 Queens Road, Five Dock. A short meeting
followed by a social Christmas get together. Bring a plate for supper.
Sat 17th to DRIVER TRAINING:
Sun 18th The Club’s free Driver Training is open to all members. You must
TO BE complete the Driver Training course before going on a Club trip.
CONFIRMED
Wed 21st to
Mon 30th Jan ? NSW School Holidays
172017
APRIL 2017
TASMANIA:
Chris C is looking into leading a trip to beautiful Tassie. Approximate length of trip will
be 3 weeks at a date to be advised. Anyone interested in joining this trip, please
advise as soon as possible so to organise ferry bookings.
JUNE - JULY 2017
Thur, 22nd June to EARLY DRY ON CAPE YORK PENINSULA:
Sun, 16th July Meeting in Cairns, driving to Cooktown, Bloomfield Track, Lion's Den, Hope Vale &
Elim, then Cape Melville. Through Lakefield NP, then Coen, Archer River, Iron Range
NP and the Lockhart River, Chilli Beach and Cape Weymouth. Then on to the
Frenchman's Track to Batavia Downs, then north through Moreton Telegraph Station
and Bramwell Junction. Then the OTT and the Jardine River.
The return journey will take us to Vrilya and Captain Billy Landing, then rejoin the OTT
after Gunshot. West to Weipa, Mungkan Kandju NP, Laura via Coen, Musgrave &
Hann River Roadhouses. Then Palmer River Goldfields, Maytown Ruins and Mareeba.
Then Atherton or Cairns to end the trip around 11th July - your choice.
Full details on the Club website.
JUNE/JULY 2018
KIMBERLEY REGION, WA:
Grade C/B: We are seeking members who would be interested in doing a 6 week trip
to this region in 2018. This trip is still in the very early stages of planning, but will start
and finish in Alice Springs or Kununurra.
A general itinerary is: Alice Springs to Halls Creek via Tanami Track, to Kununurra
along the Gt Northern Highway (black top), stopping at Bungle Bungles.
From Kununurra to Broome via Gibb River Road, stopping at El Questro, Home Valley,
Mitchell Plateau, Kalumburu, Walcott Inlet, Tunnel Ck, Windjana Gorge, Derby,
Broome, Cape Leveque, Fitzroy Crossing, then returning to Alice Springs along the
Tanami.
18If you are thinking of going on
a day or weekend trip,
but not sure where you would like to go,
here are some ideas from the book
"4WD TREKS CLOSE TO SYDNEY".
Beach Run River Crossing
Newnes
Stockton Beach - The Bridle Track
The Hunter Region - Baal Bone Gap - Chichester Forest
Tianjara Fire Trail - Jenolan to Wombeyan Caves - Abercrombie Trek
Dixons Long Point - Barrington Tops - Sunny Corner Trek
Watagan Mountains - Yengo National Park
Turon River
If you still can't decide on where to go,
try opening a map,
close your eyes and point a finger.
It is all there just waiting
for you to explore.
Red Desert Sand Lush Green Rainforest
Our Trip Organiser can help you with information and maps.
Tvan Camper Trailer Sales & Hire
Contact us:
To hire a fully equipped Tvan off road camper trailer
For a demonstration of the Tvan
To talk about buying a Tvan
Dealer for:
Track Trailer, Melbourne
Visit us in Canberra or at a caravan & camping show
Check our website for details
INDEPENDENT TRAILERS
ABN: 34 102 155 962
Peter and Catherine, 0412 866 375
www.independenttrailers.com.au
info@independenttrailers.com.au
19TRIP LEADERS and NEW TRIPS
4WD trips are the heart of our Club and we need more trips and more Trip
Leaders. Trips can be for a day, weekend or even longer.
If you've found a special place with great tracks, views, natural features,
walks or a terrific camping spot then why not share it with like-minded friends
from the Nissan Patrol 4WD Club who enjoy getting out into the bush as
much as you do.
Alternatively, you could organise a non-4WD event such as a winery tour,
river cruise, scenic walks around Sydney or to places of historic interest.
If you would like to lead a trip, please contact the Trip Organiser
Cheers,
Murray
Trip Co-ordinator
Nissan Patrol 4WD Club of NSW & ACT Inc.
BOOKING ON A CLUB TRIP
You are required to book in on any Club trip you
wish to attend by contacting the Trip Leader.
Introduce yourself and discuss with them your
vehicle capabilities and level of driving skills.
Leave a contact number.
You must reconfirm your participation in the trip
a few days before departure.
If you must cancel, contact the trip leader at the
earliest possible time, so reserves can take your
place and no-one is waiting for you where
mobile phones don’t work.
20TRIP
CLASSIFICATION
This class of trip is considered to be extremely difficult. Participants will
have to be experienced at travelling over difficult terrain. Winching
A and/or towing will almost definitely be required. Participants will be
required to bring along a certain amount of recovery equipment. The trip
leader will have the right to reject a request from someone who is
considered under-experienced.
This type of trip is considered a moderate to difficult trip. Some winching
B and/or towing will almost certainly be required. Under extreme weather
conditions this trip could develop into a Class “A” trip.
This classification is considered a moderate trip. Various sections of this
C trip will require cautious driving in order to negotiate it, but in most
circumstances, winching should not be necessary. Under extreme
weather conditions this trip could develop into a Class “B” trip.
This trip is considered a relatively easy trip. It is unlikely that any
D winching and/or towing will be required.
This trip is considered very easy with little or no four-wheel driving
E involved. This type of trip will usually consist of either an easy-to-get-to
base camp or a series of scenic tours.
Definitely, the most hideous of all trip classification, where you actually
W need to get out of your vehicle and walk to the desired destination.
21UHF CB RADIO
CHANNEL ALLOCATION
USED FOR CHANNEL/S COMMENTS
Calling 11 To call or locate another station. Parties then
(Established by law) switch to a conversation channel.
9
Conversations 12-17 Used for conversation between stations.
19-21
24-30
39
Highway 40 Mainly used by truck drivers and other highway
Communications users.
Caravaners, 18 Holiday Maker's communication channel. (eg
Campers when in convoy)
4WDrivers 10 Used by 4WD enthusiasts, clubs, convoys and in
national parks.
Emergency Calling 5 Can be used by anyone in an emergency
(Established by law) situation only.
Repeaters 1-8 In duplex mode repeaters need two channels to
31-38 work. Receives on channels 1-8. Transmits on
channels 31-38 automatically. When within range
of a repeater, it will increase the communication
difference. Operation in simplex mode on these
channels is not permitted when in range of a
repeater.
Data Transmissions 22, 23 No voice transmissions allowed on these two
(Established by law) channels.
22CONVOY
PROCEDURE
For the benefit of new members and as a reminder to old members, convoy
procedure on any NISSAN CLUB outing is as follows:
The trip leader will ensure that the group on the outing is self-sufficient and should
only call on outside bodies for assistance with recovery as a last resort.
No driver will drive in a manner - or at a speed - that could endanger himself or any
other person or vehicle.
In hazardous areas it is the responsibility of the following driver to ensure that the
previous vehicle has passed through the hazard before proceeding.
It is the responsibility of all drivers to maintain (visual) contact with the following
vehicle, especially at intersections.
Persons leaving the convoy must notify the Trip Leader and, if possible, give details
of their intentions.
On trips including two or more vehicles, each vehicle will remain in a designated
position in the convoy and not overtake the vehicle in front unless the driver of that
vehicle slows down and signals the overtaking vehicle to pass.
It is the responsibility of the Trip Leader to ensure that all drivers of all vehicles in
the convoy are aware of any deviations in the route.
No driver will park or drive in the reverse direction to the hazard of other vehicles.
If a driver is trying to contact the rest of the group he will turn on his headlights. This
is the signal for the rest of the drivers to stop.
All gates must be left in the manner in which they are found. The second vehicle in
the convoy must pull over and wait for all vehicles to pass and then rejoin the
convoy after ensuring that the gate is left as it was found.
When any form of recovery is in progress all those not directly involved in the
rescue operations must keep well clear and at a safe distance. Parents are
particularly asked to keep their children at a safe distance.
The use of radio transmitters does not replace convoy procedure.
The trip leader will remind all drivers that convoy procedure should be
followed before moving off.
23NISSAN PATROL 4WD CLUB
JUNE LONG WEEKEND
11-13 JUNE 2016
WHAT A GREAT WEEKEND!
People began arriving on Thursday afternoon. A lot more arrived throughout Friday from
early morning to very late at night. Whatever the time of arrival, everyone eventually made
their way to the shed to warm up by the fire and catch up with friends.
Saturday began with a small group of workers heading down to Bell's Bridge to repair a
section that was washed away during the heavy showers the weekend before. Chris C
lead the way, with a little help from Tim, Ray, Brendan, Jess, Trevor, and Iro. With shovels
and wheelbarrows at the ready, it didn't take long before the missing section was filled. I
was also there taking before and after photos of the bridge rebuild.
So with the time in between, I took a pair of secateurs and a saw, and did a bit of
gardening, cutting away the branches around the "Bell's Bridge" sign and now it can be
seen again. More work will be needed at a later date to secure this section of the bridge,
but a good job done for the time being.
Others went for trips to Goulburn and
Braidwood to pick up supplies or just for
some sight-seeing. Mark S and Dave C got
out the old Honda and gave it a run as it
hadn't been used for long time. Wendy was
in the kitchen cooking up a storm of cakes
for Sunday arvo tea, and it looked as though
she was really enjoying herself.
24Later in the day, a large group gathered in the shed for a round of Trivia. 30 questions in
all covering Club history and general knowledge, trips and tracks, sports, and other
general knowledge. In between the trivia questions, we played "Name the Song" with
Steve R saying the first line of a song, then the first person to yell out "OY" with the right
answer got a prize of a bag of bite-size chocs. At the half way point, a game of "Heads &
Tails" was played while the scores were being counted. Then the Trivia continued
amongst the laughter and heckling. By the time it was all done, everyone had a good
laugh.
Land Manager Mark, President Ken and a few
others went down to the flats where they set fire
to some of the piles of wood that had been
collected from the previous working bee. It will
take many more big burn-offs like this to get rid
of all the fallen timber from around the land.
At about 5.30, many of the members car pooled, then we jumped into vehicles and headed
to The Loaded Dog for dinner. We were in the outdoor area at the back with the fire
burning and 8 gas heaters, we were all very toasty warm. The dinner supplied was cuts of
roast beef, gravy, potatoes, corn on the cob, and garden salad. Then out came dessert.
First, the kids got an ice cream cone with sprinkles, then the big kids had a choice of sticky
date pudding or apple crumble, both with a scoop of ice cream. YUMMO!!
25The drive back to the Club shed and the lights of the vehicles looked truly magical as they
zig-zagged their way through the neighbours property. However, a couple of vehicles at
the end became bogged and had to be winched out. But we all eventually made it back to
the shed to warm up by the fire.
We woke on Sunday Morning to find everything covered in ice. Talk around the fire said
the overnight temperature got down to -4-ish. After a leisurely breakfast, some went into
Goulburn to pick up supplies for the evening's festivities. Then out came the big BBQ in
preparation for the sausage sizzle lunch. The smell of onions cooking on the hot plate
made everyone's mouth water. The call went out for everyone to come up to the shed for
lunch and the stampede was on. Everyone had their fill and we still had leftovers.
After a short break, a few headed for the Windellama Hall with boxes full of decorations
and other party items. Rollanda, myself, Eve, Trevor, Peter, Gillian and Joe, were putting
up the bunting and streamers, blowing up balloons, fixing table decorations and when it
was all done, didn't it look a treat.
A little tidying up and soon, the members began to arrive. Simon got this wonderful
panoramic shot of nearly all the vehicles lined up as the sun was about to set.
Lots of members caught up with each other after a
long time apart which was really great to see. Old
friendships were rekindled and new members met old
for the first time. When everyone had a seat,
President Ken got up on stage to welcome everyone to
this evening's festivities. Then it was time for the
"Lucky door prize". A red napkin was taped to the
underside of a chair and the lucky winner of the BBQ
Plate donated by Fiona S was Edina B.
26Then dinner was served. Table by table were asked to
collect their first plate - a choice of tomato or pumpkin soup.
Unfortunately, the organisers had run out of soup by the time
the last table was called.
After the clearing away of soup bowls, the second course
was ready. Chicken and/or Roast Lamb, potatoes, mixed
vegies and gravy. It was all very tasty but very small
portions. Hardly enough to satisfy. Again the tables were
called up one by one to collect their meals and again, there
was very little left for the last table.
When the desserts were ready, the last table made a B line
for the kitchen. They weren't going to miss out again. The
desserts were a choice of apple pie and ice cream or
chocolate pudding and ice cream. When I was given barely
a half scoop of ice cream, I asked for a little more and the
fellow serving looked at me in shock, then reluctantly gave
me another half scoop.
Photos by Eve
After dinner, it was time for the judging of the best dressed. There were 3 categories -
Best Male, Best Female, and Best Overall.
The first prize of a night's accommodation for 4 people at The Knight Family
The Loaded Dog went to :::::: (drum roll) ::::::
The Best Female prize of a set of LED lights kindly donated Anne D
by P&E Offroad went to ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Best Male prize of a $50 Off Anything from John F
P&E Offroad went to :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
One more official duty to do was the cutting of the cake. This honour was given to the
longest serving member in attendance, John F. (Bev would have loved this). Then it was
"help yourself" to tea, coffee & cake as the band made their way to the stage.
27The Peter McWhirter Band entertained us with a
great mix of songs for the rest of the night and
they were FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!
Playing songs from Cold Chisel - Khe Sanh,
The Knack - My Sharona (I was singing "My
Fiona"), Rick Springfield - Jessie's Girl,
Crowed House - You Better Be Home Soon,
Jet - Are You Gonna Be My Girl
[ 1,2,3, TAKE MY HAND AND COME WITH ME ]
(that song is still in my head), and many, many
more
[ BECAUSE YOU LOOK SO FINE AND I REALLY WANT TO
MAKE YOU MINE ].
Lead singer Peter McWhirter was just brilliant.
Guitarists Bryan (Chris B's nephew) and Steve
can "play a guitar like ringing a bell", and the
drummer (Sorry, forgot his name) can sure beat
it out. And they got better as the night rolled on.
If you ever want to see these guys in action,
they play a regular gig at Campbelltown
Catholic Club or you can check out their website
or Facebook page.
The dance floor was filled with youngsters of all
ages throughout the night and it was very hard
to make your way across the floor without
getting bumped into. A few members decided to
call it a night and left for the long drive home or
back to the club land. Those that stayed kept
on dancing and enjoying the band. A few
started clearing away the empty tables so as
not to be rushed at the end of the night.
As the saying goes "all good things must come to an end". If the band had kept playing, I
would still be there, as would a few others I'm sure. So as the band packed up their
instruments, and with a little more clearing, stacking of chairs and bringing down the
decorations, we headed back to the club land.
I was still buzzing from the music and needed a little relax time in front of the fire, but
ended up laughing even more with those that were still up. It was about 1 am when I
finally got into my sleeping bag with that song still in my head
[4,5,6, C'MON AND GET YOUR KICKS].
Monday morning arrived and after a bacon and egg breakfast, everyone began to pack up
their gear in their own time. Once we were packed, we decided to make a move to try and
beat the homeward traffic. Others left a little later in the day.
A great time was had by all those who attended.
28A very Special go to
Chris B - who organised the band and began the organisation
of this weekend, but unfortunately was not able to attend due
to other commitments.
Rollanda R - who was given the job of organising the rest of
the weekend, including the Trivia Afternoon, Dinner at the
Dog, Sunday sausage sizzle lunch, Windellama Hall and
decorations.
The Band of Many - who helped with shopping, picking up,
delivering, cooking, decorating and cleaning.
Ray & Danni from
P&E Offroad 4 Wheel Drive
Nicole & Mark from
The Loaded Dog Hotel
Windellama Hall Progress Association
The Peter McWhirter Band
AND days later while typing out this report - YES, that song in still in my head
[NOW YOU DON'T NEED THAT MONEY WHEN YOU LOOK LIKE THAT, DO YA HONEY]
Looking forward to doing it all again for the Club's 45th.
12-14 JUNE 2021
29The Couples
Colleen & Ken Martin & Samantha Laszlo & Edina Alan & Karen
Suzanne & Kevin Danny & Beth Jan & Mark Wendy & Russell
Iro & Tania Steve & Sandy Janelle & Simon John & Norma
Fabrizio & Samuela Matthew & Anne Steven & Rollanda Eve & Trevor
Peter & Gillian Steve & Tracy Scott & Wendy Tracy & Dave
Carol & Tony Ian & Tracey John & Kim Brian & Glenys
30The Singles
Mark Dave Graeme Chris John Joe
The Kids of All Ages
Tim & Ben Claire, Jazmine & Thomas Kyle & Thomas Emily & MacKenzie
Elizabeth Alice Jason, Fiona & Scott
Alexander Charlotte Julia & Matthew
31Down The Track
A look at 4WD Tracks
Around Australia
BIRDSVILLE TRACK, SA-QLD
The Birdsville Track is a notable outback road in
Australia. The 517 km track runs between Birdsville in
south-western Queensland and Marree, a small town in
the north-eastern part of South Australia. It traverses
three deserts along the route, the Strzelecki Desert,
Sturt Stony Desert and Tirari Desert.
Originally the track was of poor quality and suitable for
high-clearance four-wheel drive vehicles only, but it is
now a graded dirt road and a popular tourist route. It is
also used by cattle trucks carrying livestock. The track
passes through one of the driest parts of Australia with
an average rainfall of less than 100 mm annually. The area is extremely barren, dry and
isolated, and travellers should carry water and supplies in case of emergencies.
The track was opened in the 1860s to walk
cattle from northern Queensland and Northern
Territory to the nearest railheads of Port
Augusta and later Marree. The pioneering
drover that is credited with establishing the
track was Percy Burt. Burt set up a store at
Diamantina Crossing, today known as
Birdsville, and used the path to bring cattle out of the Channel Country to the railhead at
Maree that was completed in 1883. This stock route was more than 1000 km shorter than
the alternative path to Brisbane.
By 1916 enough bores had been sunk into the Great
Artesian Basin along the route at 40km intervals, that
the movement of stock was much easier and safer
than in earlier years.
An isolated store along the track operated for several
decades from the Mulka Station; the Mulka Store
Ruins are listed on the South Australian Heritage
Register.
32Over the years the Birdsville track became one of the country's
most isolated and best-known stock routes as well as a mail route
made famous by outback legend Tom Kruse. Tom Kruse and the
Track were immortalised in the 1954 documentary film made by
John Heyer, The Back of Beyond. Kruse's services ceased in 1963
to be replaced by an air service from Adelaide that started in 1970.
The route was earmarked to be signed as part of National Route 83
in the original plan of National Routes. It was to start in southern
SA before travelling north through to far-north QLD. The route was
never fully signed and the Birdsville Track is still largely unsealed.
In 2006, as part of the Year of the Outback, the
Australian Governor-General, Michael Jeffery, travelled
along the track in a 5-day event.
Up until the 1930s, only stock and camel trains would take the Birdsville track. Today it
has become a very popular track. As a result, the track is reasonably well maintained and
generally fairly smooth.
However like any outback track, its condition can change,
especially after rain. Large stretches of the track can still
be destroyed by flash flooding and drifting sand. In dry
conditions a shorter route at the northern end depicted on
maps as the "Inside track" saves 35 kilometres in distance.
Fuel, supplies and facilities, including a hotel, can be
found on the track at the Mungerannie station
(population: 3), 204 km from Marree and 313 km from
Birdsville.
Birdsville Races Keep up with track conditions A little rain and you may get stuck.
33UP THE CREEK
A quick look at some of the great
camp sites by our beautiful waterways
WISEMAN'S FERRY
Close to Sydney and perfect for a day trip, a quick
weekend get-away or taking a break for a week or
more, there are plenty of choices of accommodation
to suit everyone.
Nestled in the heartland of the Hawkesbury River is
the distinctive river settlement of Wiseman's Ferry,
about 60km north-west of Sydney’s CBD. Encircled
by noteworthy national parks - Dharug to the north
and east, Yengo to the north-west, Cattai to the west,
and Marramarra to the south - Wisemans Ferry is a
rustic village on one of the country's most famous
waterways.
The town was originally called Lower Portland Headland,
but the name was eventually changed to Wiseman's Ferry,
named after Solomon Wiseman, a former convict (1778–
1838), who received a land grant in the area from Governor
Macquarie in 1817. Wiseman established a ferry service
on the Hawkesbury River in 1827 for the transport of
produce and provisions to the convicts building the Great
North Road and was known to many as King of the
Hawkesbury.
Monument to Solomon Wiseman
Although it is a favourite retreat for Sydneysiders, its
popularity has neither eroded its rural charm nor
disturbed the hotel's famous ghost. The building was
once called Cobham Hall before it became known as
the Wiseman's Ferry Hotel.
Wiseman's Ferry Hotel
34The sandstone escarpments that ring the village are
typically Australian, providing a unique view of
authentic country lifestyle less than 40 minutes
north-west of Hornsby. The area abounds in
Aboriginal and European history. The 4850ha
Dharug National Park contains 16km of the convict-
built Old Great North Road that once connected
Sydney and Newcastle.
View from Finchs Line Road
Visitors can walk the first 1.6km section of the old
road, or stroll along the 1.6km Grass Tree Circuit - a
good walk for families – or picnic at Mill Creek or
Hazel Dell. The park is also a popular destination
for mountain biking (bikes must be walked up
Devines Hill), while car-based and small-caravan
camping is available at Mill Creek. Backpack
camping is permitted at Ten Mile Hollow.
Old Great North Road
Today, two ferry services cross the Hawkesbury
River from the town of Wisemans Ferry. The
eponymous Wisemans Ferry crosses the river to a
point down-stream of its confluence with the
Macdonald River, connecting with the Old Great
North Road. Webbs Creek Ferry crosses to a point
upstream of the confluence, connecting with the St
Albans Road that follows the west bank of the
Macdonald River.
Car Ferry crossing the Hawksbury River
TOP TIP:
First Aid Kit
Before heading off on a trip, go through your First Aid Kit.
Check that any tablets, creams and saline solutions are not
out of date, and replace them if they are. Check that bandage
packets are not damaged and that all items are in good
condition.
35A-Z of NSW
National Parks
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
HAT HEAD NATIONAL PARK
Hat Head National Park, near Kempsey, is a place of exceptional beauty. This park was created in
July 1972 and covers an area of 7,458 hectares. The beaches, sand dunes, rainforest and wetlands
offer an ideal backdrop for bushwalking, camping or a quiet picnic.
There is a choice of campgrounds, including campsites right
by the beach, or you could stay at the Smoky Cape lighthouse
keepers’ cottage with its stunning coastal views, be sure to
take a guided tour.
Hat Head National Park is a great place to go whale watching
during the annual whale migration which takes place from
June to November. Start planning your next coastal
adventure now. Smoky Cape Lighthouse
There are lots of walking tracks to choose from, and visitors can also enjoy fishing and bird-
watching. Bird-watchers can look for black swans and spoonbills in the park’s wetlands, hawks and
eagles soaring above beach cliffs and shorebirds like curlews and plovers around the beach.
Some of the largest in New South Wales, the park’s enormous
sand dunes can’t help but catch your eye. The dunes provide a
buffer from the ocean, protecting the land from salty winds and
waves. They are slowing growing and moving inland, gradually
taking over the park’s wetlands. See if you can make it to the top
of the dunes - you’ll get a bird’s eye view and feel like you’re on
Sand Dunes top of the world.
36The park is part of the traditional land of the Dunghutti people and remains a significant place. The
sea, rivers and wetlands provided a rich source of food like fish and shellfish, and the strong
Aboriginal heritage is evident today. The park is culturally important to Aboriginal people as it
contains ceremonial grounds, burial sites, shell middens and campsites.
You’re bound to see butterflies fluttering past you in Hat Head
National Park. Many types have been spotted in the park, including
several types of swallow-tailed butterflies. One type, the regent
skipper, is only found in Hat Head National Park and Limeburners
Creek National Park. With black wings and a range of yellow and
red dots and stripes, you might see it feeding on tuckeroos in the
park’s rainforest.
Swallow-tailed Butterfly
Hat Head National Park protects an extraordinary amount of landscapes, birds and animals, but also
offers countless opportunities for secluded relaxation, recreation and enjoyment. Sweeping
beaches, rainforests, impressive dunes, and rocky headlands make it the perfect holiday or daytrip
for walking, swimming, hiking, bird-watching and fishing.
Hat Head National Park, near Kempsey, is a place of exceptional beauty. The beaches, sand dunes,
rainforest and wetlands offer an ideal backdrop for bushwalking, camping or a quiet picnic. There
is a choice of campgrounds, including campsites right by the beach,
Smoky Cape Camping Area Hungry Gate Camping Area
Beach Driving Swimming & Surfing
Meet the locals
37NATURE
LOVER
THE KOALA
Koalas are not bears. They are not placental or 'eutherian' mammals,
but MARSUPIALS, which means that their young are born immature
& they develop further in the safety of a pouch. It’s incorrect to call
them ‘Koala bears' - their correct name is simply 'Koalas'.
Habitat loss is the greatest threat to Koalas. The main reasons for
this are land clearing, bushfires and diseases of the eucalypts, like
‘dieback' which cause the trees to die.
It is estimated that there are likely to be less than 80,000 Koalas
remaining in Australia today and it could be as low as 43,000. Much
of their habitat has already been lost. This makes it vitally important
to save what is left.
Koalas have 5 digits on each front paw, two of which are opposed to the others, much like our
thumbs are able to be moved differently from the fingers. This helps them to hold firmly onto the
branches and to grip their food. The 2nd and 3rd digits on their hind paws are fused together to
form a grooming claw.
Koalas are mostly nocturnal. Koalas, however, sleep for part of the night and also sometimes
move about in the daytime. They often sleep for up to 18-20 hours each day. There is a myth
that Koalas sleep a lot because they ‘get drunk’ on gum leaves. Fortunately, this is not correct!
Most of their time is spent sleeping because it requires a lot of energy to digest their toxic, fibrous,
low-nutrition diet and sleeping is the best way to conserve energy
Koalas in the southern parts of Australia (left) are considerably
larger and have thicker fur than those in the north (right). This is
thought to be an adaptation to keep them warm in the colder
southern winters.
Each Koala’s ‘home' is made up of several trees called HOME
TREES. They visit these same trees regularly. The area
covered by these trees is called the Koala’s HOME RANGE.
Each Koala has its own home range, which overlaps those of
other Koalas. Unless breeding, they don’t normally visit another Koalas home trees. The size of
each home range depends upon a range of factors including the quality of the habitat and the
sex, age and social position in the population of the Koala.
A mature male has a dark scent gland in the centre of his white
chest which exudes a dark, sticky substance. He rubs this on his
trees to indicate to other Koalas that this is his territory
Koalas also communicate with each other by making a range of
noises. The most startling and unexpected of these in such a
seemingly gentle animal is a sound like a loud snore and then a
belch, known as a ‘bellow'
38Baby Koalas are known as ‘Joeys'. Scientists often refer to them using terms like ‘juveniles',
‘pouch young' and ‘back young'.
Younger breeding females usually give birth to one Joey each year, depending on a range of
factors. However, not all females in a wild population will breed each year. Some, especially older
females, will produce offspring only every two or three years.
When the Joey is born, it’s only about 2 centimetres long, is blind
and furless and its ears are not yet developed. On its amazing
journey to the pouch, it relies on its well-developed senses of smell
and touch, its strong forelimbs and claws, and an inborn sense of
direction. Once in the pouch, it attaches itself to one of the two
teats which swells in its mouth, preventing it from being dislodged
from its source of food. The Joey stays in its mother’s pouch for
about 6 or 7 months, drinking only milk.
Before it can tolerate gum leaves, which are toxic for most mammals, the Joey must feed on a
substance called ‘pap' which is a specialised form of the mother’s droppings that is soft and runny.
This allows the mother to pass on to the Joey special micro-organisms from her intestine which are
necessary for it to be able to digest the gum leaves. It feeds on this for a period of up to a few
weeks, just prior to it coming out of the pouch at about 6 or 7 months of age.
After venturing out of the pouch, the Joey rides on its mother’s
abdomen or back, although it continues to return to her pouch for
milk until it is too big to fit inside. The Joey leaves its mother’s
home range between 1 and 3 years old, depending on when the
mother has her next Joey.
Female Koalas are fully mature by about 2 years of age and
males by their third or fourth year. By this time they need to have
found
their own home range, either in a home range left vacant by a dead Koala or in a new area of the
forest. This is one reason why Koalas need quite large areas of habitat.
Koalas do not live in rainforests or desert areas. They live in the tall eucalypt forests and low
eucalypt woodlands of mainland eastern Australia, and on some islands off the southern and
eastern coasts. Queensland, NSW, Victoria and South Australia are the only states where
Koalas are found naturally in the wild.
There are well over 600 varieties of eucalypts. Koalas eat only
some of these. They are very fussy eaters and have strong
preferences for different types of gum leaves. Within a particular
area, as few as one, and generally no more than two or three
species of eucalypt will be regularly browsed (these are called
'primary browse trees') while a variety of other species, including
some non-eucalypts, appear to be browsed occasionally or used
for just sitting or sleeping in. Different species of eucalypts grow
in different parts of Australia, so a Koala in Victoria would have a
very different diet from one in Queensland.
A forest can only have a certain number of Koalas living in it. This is called the forest’s ‘carrying
capacity'. Like pasture for sheep, the available gumtrees can only feed a certain number of
Koalas.
An adult Koala eats about half a kilogram to one kilogram of leaves each night, depending on
many factors, including the size and sex of the koala and where the Koala lives.
39You can also read
