BEING a Jeep owner I was pretty excited to discover Axial was coming out with a new RC Jeep, the JL Wrangler.
This is the first RTR model on Axial’s all-new SCX 10 III platform, and it’s a big step up from the old SCX 10 II. You now get portal axles, DIG transmission function, licensed parts from Method, Nitto and CRC, plus a beautifully designed Jeep Wrangler JL body (available in orange or grey) and a chassis that features inner fenders and a detailed motor cover for an ultra-scale appearance.
A Spektrum DX3 2.4GHz transmitter, Spektrum Firma Smart ESC/radio receiver and a metal-gear steering servo are also included with this model.
So what is it like out on the tracks? Well, the first thing I noticed was how good the new Spektrum DX3 radio is to use. It features a thumb toggle so you can drive it one-handed, which is great for filming or holding that double-shot latte.
The locked diffs allow it to climb up some crazy angles and the excellent wheel articulation keeps the tyres in contact with the ground. It has good low-down punch, but I recommend using a 3S LiPo battery to make the most out of its motor and generate maximum power.
The best new feature is the DIG Function. Having that ability to lock up the rear axle and let the front axle do all the work for those tight turns is a huge advantage. This allows the Jeep to turn like no other stock RC crawler. Another great new feature is the hidden body clips and stealth body mounting system. No more ugly body posts sticking out from the bonnet– well done Axial.
This JL has a whole new feel in comparison to the previous SCX10. The portal axles play a big part, as the added clearance allows you to drive over bigger obstacles. Axial designed a brand-new tyre for the SCX10 III, and the R35 compound Nitto Trail Grapplers are wider and a little taller (4.7 x 1.7-inch) than the tyres on the old SCX10 II. The larger footprint improves grip and the extra height also helps.
There’s also a second gear built into the gearbox, but unless you add another micro servo you can only use the DIG function or two-speed gearbox one at a time. I prefer the DIG function.
So the SCX10 III drives really well but, let’s be honest, the main reason we buy an RC crawler is for the way it looks, and this Wrangler looks awesome. The scale detail is amazing. Moulded plastic guards and working LED lights, as well as mirrors, door handles, wipers and inner fender flares – this truck is so well detailed. The interior is just as good. It has seats, a dash, roll cage and a driver figure with a cowboy hat. What more could you want?
It would be nice to have the DIG function and two-speed gearbox able to work together out of the box. To make this happen you would need another servo and a four-channel radio.
I was really impressed with the SCX10 III. The performance, scale details and next-gen electronics make the SCX10 III a great choice for a first RC 4×4, or for someone adding to their 1/10th fleet.
AVAILABLE FROM: www.modelflight.com.au RRP: $899.99 WE SAY: Impressive performance, scale details and new electronics.
Jeep has pulled the wraps off its first V8-powered ‘traditional’ Jeep in almost 40 years, with the unveiling of the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392.
Before you head on down to your local dealer to orders yours, cool your heels, as the Wrangler 392 will be made in left-hand drive only so it’s not coming to Australia.
“At this stage, the Rubicon 392 is going to be produced in LHD only,” said a Jeep Australia spokesperson.
However, the door hasn’t shut completely.
“With that said, we know how much Australians love their V8s, so if that changes we’ll be the first to put our hand up,” teased the spokesperson.
FCA remains the only manufacturer to offer non-premium V8-powered passenger cars in Australia, with the Chrysler 300C sedan and Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV still available with V8 power.
Interestingly, those power plants form the basis of the same 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine as found in the Rubicon 392.
This isn’t the first time FCA has denied Australians what would be a desirable powertrain in their Jeeps.
The recently released 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that is available in the JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator pick-up in the USA is also left-hook only, and not for us Aussies.
This is the first time Jeep has fitted a V8 engine to a Wrangler and the first time to a ‘Traditional Jeep’ since the last of the CJ7 models in the early 1980s.
We can expect the V8 Hemi engine will also find its way into the JT Gladiator at some time in the future, although that is unconfirmed.
Jeep Rubicon 392 V8 in detail
Jeep officially calls the V8 JL Wrangler the Rubicon 392, but it doesn’t come with all the hardware we expect in the Rubicon models.
Yes, it has locking Dana 44 differentials front and rear and the disconnecting front sway bar, but the V8 and eight-speed auto transmission are backed by the full-time Selec-Trac transfer case with 2.7:1 low range gears in lieu of the 4.1:1 equipped Rock-Trac usually found in Rubicons.
The final drive ratio in the 392 is 3.73:1 instead of 4.1:1, giving the Rubicon 392 a 48:1 crawl ratio.
That higher gearing might have something to do with the 392’s output, with some 350kW and 637Nm going to the wheels.
These numbers are the same as that found in the 300C SRT sedan, suggesting the Wrangler’s V8 is the same tune as found in the Chrysler.
Jeep claims the Wrangler Rubicon 392 will cover the zero to 100km/h dash in 4.5 seconds and the quarter-mile in 13.0 seconds.
This a wicked wagon when you consider it still has excellent off-road capabilities.
In fitting the V8 engine within the Wrangler frame Jeep has beefed up the chassis rails to give them more strength and equipped the 392 with a ‘factory’ 50mm suspension lift using Fox shock absorbers.
The beadlock-capable alloy wheels are fitted with 33-inch off-road tyres, giving the 392 approach, breakover and departure angles of 44.5, 22.6 and 37.5 degrees respectively, and the ability to traverse up to 825.5mm of water.
A model-specific Hydro-Guide air intake system includes a tri-level ducting system that separates water – up to 57 litres per minute – away from the engine’s incoming air, while a functional bonnet vent feeds the V8 engine’s intake.
Of course, the Rubicon 392 is equipped with plenty of model-specific trims and features to clearly identify it as the V8 model, and there is a huge range of Mopar accessories available for it.
Unfortunately, don’t expect to be seeing it on Australian tracks any time soon. We’ll just continue to rely on aftermarket V8 engine conversions.
THERE’S nothing like owning a new car and, while I’ll never be able to afford one, I’m lucky enough to get to drive more of them than most folks. What becomes apparent the more you drive new vehicles straight off the showroom floor is how much of a compromise they all are.
When car companies design, engineer, manufacture and sell a new vehicle, it has to be made to meet many criteria and few new cars are specialised. Even in the world of four-wheel drives the new models have to meet standards of efficiency, comfort, safety, quietness and on-road performance. Few actually put off-road ability or load hauling as a priority, so you need to go to a specialised model for that.
The popular one-tonne mid-size double-cab utes are the biggest compromise, as they try to add a relatively heavy payload and towing capacity to all the above criteria. A bit like the venerable Swiss Army Knife with so many tools in its quiver, it does many jobs adequately but none very well. There are bigger and sharper knives available if all you want is a cutting tool.
This is why we accessorise and modify our vehicles to better suit the uses we have for them. Be it simply fitting a set of more aggressive and durable tyres for regular rough road use or engineering a chassis stretch, SAS conversion and V8 engine swap, the changes we make reflect our needs and desires. Some like to keep it simple and practical, while others take it to extremes.
Whatever mods you do to your car, the end result should make the vehicle better at accomplishing your goals, be they to tow a large van around Australia, go rock crawling, or just stand out in a crowd. And we’re thankful that you do it!
This is why we bring you so many different custom 4x4s throughout the year; and in December we compile our favourites for you to choose one you think is the best. This year’s haul brings a wide variety of vehicles built to do many different things in many different ways, so take the time to look over the selection and get online to vote for your favourite.
Just by voting, you have a chance to win $2000 worth of Maxxis tyres. We’ve loved the Maxxis RAZR MT that we had on the Ranger and the new ATs on the Musso, and the only thing better than a new set is winning them for free.
Ford has brought back the Everest BaseCamp, with the Special Edition model priced from $64,990 and limited to a run of just 450 units.
Previously seen about the same time last year as the BaseCamp Accessory Pack, Ford Australia says it’s bringing it back due to popular demand.
Based on the mid-spec Everest Trend 4×4, the BaseCamp is available with either the 3.2-litre ($64,990) or 2.0-litre bi-turbo ($66,490) configurations. For comparison’s sake the Trend in its standard skin is $2000 cheaper.
Despite the $2000 price hike for the BaseCamp, Ford Australia says the value of the kit added represents $6000 of value.
Said kit includes a 76mm diameter black nudge bar; Ford-licensed LED light bar; Ford Genuine snorkel; black roof-mounted carry bars; Pioneer Platform; Genuine Sunseeker awning; and a Ford Genuine tow bar rated to 3000kg (3.2L) and 3100kg (Bi-Turbo).
You’ll also find BaseCamp decals and bolder grey paint on the grille, front bumper skid, rear bumper skid, fender vents and wheels.
In addition to the BaseCamp, Ford Australia has revealed a RWD Everest Sport variant. Powered exclusively by Ford’s 157Kw/500Nm 2.0-litre bi-turbo powertrain, the RWD Everest Sport is dressed in black – the mesh grille, front and rear bumpers, tailgate, roof rails, 20-inch alloy wheels and exterior mirrors are all coated in black.
“We know the travel habits of Australians are changing in the wake of COVID-19, and more and more Aussies will be looking for road trip adventures. The Everest offers a smooth ride on the highway, plus genuine off-road, off-the-beaten track capability,” said Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand.“Now, with the Everest BaseCamp Special Edition and Everest Sport in rear wheel drive, we’re offering more choice for our customers to take to the roads in vehicles that have been designed and engineered in Australia to make discovering our great country easy, safe and comfortable.”
Ford has also tickled the front-end of its Everest Trend and Titanium models, with the respective variants now featuring a chrome grille with grey mesh. In addition, the top-end Titanium model now wears 3D ‘EVEREST’ lettering on the hood.
The latest offerings in the Everest stable will be available in showrooms from December 2020.
PRICING
Everest BaseCamp 3.2l 4WD: $64,990 Everest BaseCamp 2.0l Bi-Turbo 4WD: $66,490 Everest Sport 2.0l Bi-Turbo RWD: $59,990
2021 FORD EVEREST 4WD DRIVEAWAY PRICING
Everest Ambiente 3.2l 4WD (5 Seat): $57,490 Everest Trend 3.2l 4WD: $62,990 Everest Trend 2.0l Bi-Turbo 4WD: $64,490 Everest Sport 3.2l 4WD: $65,990 Everest Sport 2.0l Bi-Turbo 4WD: $67,490 Everest Titanium 2.0l Bi-Turbo 4WD: $72,990
PICK up a copy of our all-new December 2020 magazine for complete 2020 Custom 4×4 Of The Year coverage, as well as plenty more.
We’ve seen many stunning custom four-wheel drives roll through the pages of our magazine this year, and we’ve shortlisted 12 epic examples for the 2020 Custom 4×4 Of The Year award.
You’ll find comprehensive coverage in the December magazine on each of the 12 finalists, and you can vote for your favourite by visiting our Custom 4×4 Of The Year home page. Everyone who votes goes into the draw to win a Maxxis Tyres voucher valued at up to $2000.
In this issue, we also point a microscope at two more custom builds: an all-conquering Ford Everest, and a stunning Silverado set-up dressed in nothing but the best kit.
To escape the incoming summer heat, you’ll want to add an off-road awning to your 4×4’s arsenal. We had a chat to a few experts in the awning industry, where they explained what to look for, what to avoid, and why an awning is essential for an outback expedition.
Plus, with Christmas just over a month away, now’s the time to tick off your Christmas shopping. We’re here to help, with our extensive holiday gear guide showcasing a smorgasbord of aftermarket products you’d love to wake up to on Christmas morning.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE?
– 4×4 trips to the Grampians and Old Glen Innes Road. – First fang of Mazda’s all-new BT-50. – Land Rover Perentie and Nissan Patrol in the 4×4 shed – New 4×4 product reviews.
The December 2020 issue of 4X4 Australia is OUT NOW!
POPULAR four-wheel drive location, McBrides Beach on the NSW north coast, has recently been closed off to vehicle access, according to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.
While many view the challenging track conditions to the beach as a gatekeeper to prevent overuse of the area, NPWS disagrees, opting instead to construct a 560-metre walking track.
NPWS Hunter Central Coast Director Kylie Yeend says the aim of this exercise is to improve access to the beach for locals and visitors to the area.
“McBrides Beach is a little slice of paradise, known by locals and visitors for its seclusion and outstanding natural beauty,” she said. “We’ve listened to feedback from the local community that the current shared pedestrian and vehicle access trail has become significantly degraded, making it difficult for pedestrians to safely access the beach.”
NPWS say they are working to determine the best way forward regarding vehicle access.
There is no timeframe for the track to be re-opened to 4x4s, however the walking track is expected to be finished mid-December 2020 at a cost of $73,000.
Sadly, it seems vehicle access is no longer a priority, with the official press release using suspiciously vague wording around the reopening of the vehicle access track, but they tell us NPWS will work with key stakeholders to consider viable options for vehicle access at Cape Hawke.
Read the full press release HERE.
A FETTLED Triton headlines our latest batch of reader-submitted rigs. Plus, a couple of previous-gen D-MAX utes dressed in quality kit will get you raring to go on your own 4×4 build.
To get involved, head to the 4X4 Australia Facebook page and send us a photo and brief description of your pride and joy.
2007 MITSUBISHI TRITON
I bought a brand-new 2007 Triton GLXR with factory locker. It now has 33-inch BFG muddies; Hummer H3 alloys; a two-inch Ultimate Suspension touring setup; three-inch exhaust; a bit more boost; it’s chipped; and a Long Ranger 125-litre tank. I love this rig – Jereme Lindsell.
2010 TOYOTA LC200
This is our family escape vehicle. Here it is out on the Border Track in SA/Vic. It has been lifted two inches and has 33-inch muddies; a Rhino rack; dual batteries with a few other electrical mods; rear drawers with an Engel fridge; a catch can and fuel filter; ARB winch bar with a Warn winch; Uniden radios; and a ScanGaugeII – Nathaniel Noble.
2104 ISUZU D-MAX LSU
Kit includes Mickey Thompson Deegan 38 tyres; ARB canopy and awning; TJM rear and side-steps; Safari snorkel; secondary fuel filter; ProVent 200 catch can; 30-inch light bar; 65L Waeco fridge/freezer; a Baintech Powertop 135amp/h power pack; and plenty of other usual necessities inside – Ross Iudica
2013 ISUZU D-MAX LSM
It has an ARB deluxe bar and side-steps; MCC rear jack bar; Runva 11XP winch; TJM Airtech snorkel; STEDI Type-X driving lights; Mars HDI headlight replacements; Caddy Storage GSE-L canopy with side lift windows; Outback Touring Solutions drawer system with fridge slide; Rhino-Rack Pioneer dual-platform system; CSA Raptor rims with BFG KO2 tyres; EFS two-inch suspension lift with heavy-duty leaf springs; Airbag Man airbags; LRA 130L fuel tank; Ecu-Shop touch combo module; Beaudesert 2¾-inch exhaust system; ARB front and rear lockers with compressor mounted under seat; Piranha diff-breather kit; dual-battery system with Piranha DBE180-SX battery manager; GME TX3345 UHF; and a Pioneer seven-inch head unit with sat-nav – Stephen Bodnar
2018 MQ MITSUBISHI TRITON
Gear includes Ironman 4×4 barwork; Ironman 4×4 spotties and winch; TJM Wedgetail snorkel; BFG A/T tyres; Outback Armour suspension; UHF; Rhino pioneer platform; Decked drawer system; and a tub rack – Tim Bull
2013 PX XL FORD RANGER
Ranger features a two-inch lift with Bilstein shocks; Lovells coils and EFS 300kg constant leafs; Speedy rims with 265/75R16 BFG All-Terrains; TJM bullbar, side steps and rails; three-inch exhaust; K&N filter and catch can; GME XRS two-way; C-Tek 250 with smart pass; and a KickAss 170amp/h slimline battery – Trent Locastro.
Australian aftermarket guru ARB has developed a range of accessories ready to fit to the 2021 Isuzu D-MAX.
Up front, a Summit bar has been designed to tailor to the revised shape of the new D-MAX. Not only does the bar protect vital engine components in the event of a vehicle accident or animal strike, it has provisions for driving lights and UHF aerials, as well as twin ARB Jack or Hi-Lift jack points.
The new shape of the tub also meant ARB had to redesign its Classic and Classic Plus canopies, which feature lift-up or sliding side windows. The canopy also houses a range of ARB’s roof-carrying accessories including the new BASE Rack.
ARB has confirmed the new D-MAX can also be fitted with a set of Outback Solutions drawers, as well as Tailgate Assist.
ARB says it has a selection of gear in the pipeline, which will be ready towards the end of the year. This includes Old Man Emu suspension including a GVM upgrade; the Ascent canopy; Sportlid; Sportguard; ute liner; a range of bullbars, rear step tow bars; under vehicle protection; and recovery points.
The all-new D-MAX, which shares it core architecture with the 2021 Mazda BT-50, landed on local soil in September this year, boasting a refreshed style, refined drivetrain, advanced safety systems netting it a five-star ANCAP safety rating, and a price hike.
To give your D-MAX the ARB treatment, head to: www.arb.com.au
THE new car market continues to stabilise in Australia, despite the 31st consecutive month of decreasing sales for the industry.
A key cog to stem the sales slump has been the LCV market, with light commercials claiming 23.6 per cent of the overall market in October – up a whopping 11.6 per cent compared to October 2019.
In fact, of the five best-selling cars in the country for the month of October, four of them were cars we’re all too familiar with here at 4X4 HQ: the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Toyota LandCruiser and Toyota Prado – rounding out the top five was yet another Toyota, the RAV4.
“The green shoots that we are seeing in October give us great hope that we may begin to see further recovery during the coming months,” said Tony Weber, chief executive of the FCAI.
“Nationally, the state of industry operations is returning to normal as COVID-19 restrictions ease. Additionally, Government initiatives such as a constructive budget that included the instant asset write off, along with more accessible finance for consumers, is also acting as a welcome stimulus for the industry.
Unsurprisingly, the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux remain the most popular four-wheel drives for the Aussie buyer, selling 3808 and 3406 units respectively in October.
The biggest mover for the month was the Toyota Prado, with sales up by 1387 units month-to-month. Toyota shifted a total of 2207 units compared to 820 in September, with the dramatic jump in sales seeing the Prado squeeze onto the 4×4 sales podium for October.
The new D-MAX 4×4 has also shown growth, following its arrival on local soil in September. IUA sold a total of 1330 units in October, up from 856 in September.
And, in news that will shock no-one, Toyota remains the dominant brand for overall vehicle sales, registering 19,505 for the month. Trailing Toyota on the charts are Mazda (7457) and Hyundai (5951).
As restrictions further ease, especially in Victoria, we expect new sales to continue to strengthen as we enter 2021.
4X4 SALES: OCTOBER 2020
1: Ford Ranger: 3808 2: Toyota Hilux: 3406 3: Toyota Prado: 2207 4: Toyota LC200: 1640 5: Isuzu D-MAX: 1330 6: Nissan Navara: 923 7: Mitsubishi Triton: 826 8: Toyota LC79: 789 9: LDV T60: 606 10: Ford Everest: 601
4X4 SALES: YEAR TO DATE (OCTOBER 2020)
1: Ford Ranger: 30,185 2: Toyota Hilux: 26,459 3: Mitsubishi Triton: 12,974 4: Toyota Prado: 12,932 5: Toyota LC200: 10,862 6: Nissan Navara: 7834 7: Toyota LC79: 7771 8: Isuzu D-MAX: 7411 9: Holden Colorado: 6622 10: VW Amarok: 5757
SLAP on the singlets, sunscreen and thongs, folks, as summer is just around the corner. And if you’re one of the many people who prefer to chase sun and surf during the warmer months – via a decent sand track, of course – then you’re no doubt aware Australia has some very special coastal destinations.From the island delights of south-east Queensland to the equally stunning Dirk Hartog Island on the west coast – and everything in between – Australia is crammed with picturesque beaches and challenging sand tracks. So you can imagine our dilemma when asked to cut this list to just five …
Of course, if you’re still unable to leave your state by the time the mercury starts to rise (due to the COV1D-19 pandemic), then plot these trips down on your bucket list and save them for later … as they’re truly extraordinary.
And remember, lower your tyre pressures and keep an eye on the tide!
FRASER ISLAND, QLD
OKAY, let’s get the obvious one out of the way first. Fraser Island (or K’gari) is the quintessential Aussie beach for four-wheel drivers, with its postcard-esque stretches of white sand waiting to be disturbed by off-road tyres. In fact, Fraser Island is considered the largest sand island on the planet.
Reaching the island itself is possible from the mainland at Inskip Point, where the ferry takes about an hour and will drop you off on the west coast. The nearby Kingfisher Bay Resort is a real treasure of the island and a great stop for dinner, a warm shower or a night on the beers. Eurong Beach Resort has you covered for such activities on the east side.
One of Fraser Island’s most compelling highlights is its ever-changing environment, which criss-crosses between beautiful coasts, picturesque lakes and rich forests. Central Station is an essential point of interest on the island, with the settlement once a major timber yard famous for its hoop pine and massive satinay trees. Logging lasted from about the 1860s until 1991, and in 1998 most of the island was protected within the Great Sandy NP.
Plenty of walking tracks snake their way to and from Central Station, with one in particular taking you to a mass of giant satinays – photos don’t do them justice. Once you’ve worked up a sweat it’s a great opportunity to take a dip in one of the island’s many lakes, with Lake McKenzie undoubtedly being the most popular with tourists.
Back to the coast and there are many destinations and landmarks popular with four-wheelers, especially on the east coast, and none more so than the Maheno, the old wreck of a ship which washed ashore in 1935. North of Maheno is Indian Head, Waddy Point campsite and the village of Orchid Beach. Farther north again (about 50km or so) and you’ll pass Ngkala Rocks and arrive at Sandy Cape and the nearby Sandy Cape Lighthouse.
Fraser Island hides plenty more hidden secrets, which you’ll have to discover for yourself. Camping and vehicle access permits are required to visit Fraser, and the ferry can book out, so it’s best to book in advance.
MORETON AND STRADBROKE ISLANDS, QLD
WHILE you’re touring south-east Queensland, it’d be remiss not to lower your tyre pressures once more and tackle a few more of the beautiful islands in the region. Moreton and North Stradbroke (Straddie) Islands are two sand jewels that offer great off-roading fun.
What’s most enticing about Moreton Island is that it’s so close to Brisbane it makes for a perfect weekend escape – 40km from the heart of Brissy, to be exact. The island’s 18,000 hectares are packed with plenty of activities, which will keep the entire family enthralled for days – even weeks. There are countless swimming spots, surfing options (especially at the patrolled Main Beach), diving, fishing (at designated areas), bushwalking, sand-tobogganing (yep!), and of course 4WDing on the many sand tracks.
Of the island’s many points of interests, some recommendations include the unmissable Five Hills Lookout; the historic Cape Moreton Lighthouse; whale-watching at the Blue Lagoon campground (from June to October) and a dip in Blue Lagoon lake; the Rous Battery World War II defence site; and Mirapool Lagoon.
The Micat ferry runs daily from the Port of Brisbane to the Tangalooma Wrecks on the island’s central-west coast. Camping and vehicle-access permits are required from the Qld Department of National Parks.
From Moreton Island, a ferry departs Kooringal to North Stradbroke Island (Straddie). Also accessible via the mainland at Cleveland, Straddie is another Mecca for swimming, surfing and fishing. With both bitumen and unsealed sand tracks, the four-wheel driving isn’t too shabby either.
In fact, the drive along Flinders Beach on the northern coastline is second-to-none, but it’s popular with both drivers and pedestrians, so remain alert. Another epic drive is the 24km southern journey along Main Beach, ending at Jumpinpin Channel. Other more difficult tracks weave through the island, including the tricky Keyhole Lakes Track.
A beach access permit is required for Straddie.
DIRK HARTOG ISLAND, WA
OFTEN called the Fraser Island of the West Coast, Dirk Hartog Island (DHI) is an isolated paradise named after the Dutch sea captain who discovered the island in 1616.Accessible only via a barge that departs the mainland at Blackies Beach, Steep Point (and takes only 15 minutes), DHI matches the beaches of south-east Qld for its sand driving and picturesque views, but it’s considerably more remote, which is what makes it such a lucrative proposition.
To this end, it’s important to be entirely self-sufficient before embarking on a DHI adventure. This means, at a minimum, an up-to-scratch 4×4 recently ticked off by your mechanic, recovery gear, and reliable communications.
Perhaps the island’s biggest attraction is the Blow Holes, which takes some dune-bashing to reach. Depending on the swell of the ocean will dictate how ferocious the Blow Holes are; either way, it’s a highlight not to be missed.
Tourers can also stand in the footsteps of Dirk Hartog himself and take in the views overlooking Shark Bay, at Cape Inscription; while a stopover at The Homestead will net you a hot shower in a private bathroom, a comfy bed and beautiful views overlooking the ocean.
Further seclusion can be found at Turtle Bay, famous for its white sands and turquoise Shark Bay water. And for those keen on luring a fish a two, you can throw a line in at many places, with the best spots at Withnell Point, Urchin Point and The Block.
We reckon the perfect way to end a DHI adventure is to venture to Herald Heights to watch the sunset, made special by the fact it’s the most westerly point in Australia.
STOCKTON BEACH, NSW
YOU won’t be the first tourer to be overawed by Stockton Beach’s formidable sand-dune system, which stretches as far as the eye can see.However, much of it is fenced off from the general public. Due to environmental damage parts of the sand-dune system have been blocked off to the general public while the many tracks and dunes recover. Pundits, though, can still play on the beachfront at defined routes, and at the 3.5km² Recreation Vehicle Area.
Aside from the obvious off-roading benefits, what draws many pundits is the area’s rich history. Many relics from WWII defence systems can be found on these shores, as well as numerous Aboriginal midden sites that are of cultural significance. This is why it is vital to avoid reckless driving (something the area is unfortunately known for) and not drive over vegetation or shell accumulations.
A highlight of Stockton Beach is The Shacks (or Tin City), a collection of huts located 11km south-west of Anna Bay. The huts were constructed by a group of squatters during the Great Depression of the 1930s, and were then torn down during WWII. Now only 11 shacks remain.
Fun fact: Fans of 1979’s Mad Max may recognise Tin City and the surrounding dunes, as they were used during several of the film’s scenes.
You can also hunt for the 1932 Uralla shipwreck, and the remains of the 1974 Synga shipwreck located about 6km from Lavis Lane.
Annual and three-day vehicle permits are available and required. Despite the strict rules governing the region, Stockton Beach is still a worthy beach expedition.
PORTLAND DUNES, VIC
There’s no better place to dune-hop in Victoria than at Portland Dunes (within the Discovery Bay Coastal Park), located about four hours from Melbourne in the state’s south-west. Well, we say no ‘better’ place, but there aren’t really any other places in Victoria where you can drive a 4×4 on the beach.
There is a catch: you’ll need a membership with the Portland Dune Buggy Club to access the area. Membership applications generally take up to five weeks to be processed, so planning your trip is essential. Campsite management and bookings are also taken care of by the Portland Dune Buggy Club.
Once you’re in, you’ll be rewarded with a challenging sand-dune system, and you’ll need an adequately set-up rig for serious sand play, with recovery gear and working comms.
The closest town for provisions is at Portland, about 50km away, so you’ll also need to be totally self-sufficient when it comes to food, water and, of course, fuel.
An attraction of the Dunes is ‘The Bowl’, where dune buggies can be found circling the 30-degree slope at speeds up to 130km/h. And when you need to take a break from 4WDing, fishing from the beach provides a bit of fun.
Victoria might be better known for the High Country, but you won’t be disappointed with a detour (quite a big detour, mind you) to the Portland Dunes.
Have we missed any? Let us know in the comments section below.