The new Lexus GX550 is on sale in Australia, with the three-model range starting from $116,000 and powered by a 260kW/650Nm 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine. The five-model LandCruiser Prado range isn’t too far off, either.
The GX550 range starts with the Luxury ($116,000), then Overtrail ($122,250) and finally Sports Luxury ($128,200) variants (all plus on-road costs). All GX550 models use the same twin-turbo petrol V6 powertrain and a 10-speed torque-converter automatic with second-start function, while full-time four-wheel-drive with low-range and a locking centre differential are also standard.
The all-new seven-seat Lexus GX550 (five seats only in the off-road oriented Overtrail) promises a versatile blend of performance and passenger accommodation capabilities with off-road and towing ability thrown in.
This is the first time the GX is offered locally, having been in markets previously such as the US where it’s gained sustained popularity.
We also have confirmed prices and most specs for Prado. Five Prado models will be offered: the five-seater GX ($72,500) and Altitude ($92,700), and seven-seater GXL ($79,990), VX ($87,400) and finally the $99,990 Kakadu (all prices plus on-road costs), all powered by HiLux’s mild-hybrid 150kW/500Nm 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel linked in new Prado to an eight-speed automatic transmission (and full-time, dual range 4WD with Torsen centre diff).
As we edge closer to the Prado’s imminent release, we run the ruler over both the upmarket Lexus GX550 and its close cousin, the more affordable Toyota Prado, to see what differences exist between the pair.
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Positioned between the new RX and larger 300-based LX in the Lexus SUV range, the new seven-seat Lexus GX promises a versatile blend of performance and passenger comfort with off-road and towing ability thrown in.
It launched in May 2024, and it is the first time the GX is offered locally, having been kept from Australia in its previous form. Ideal for a family of adventurers, the GX is once again based on the iconic Toyota LandCruiser Prado – also entering its next generation.
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Obviously the Lexus GX550 and Toyota Prado will not be direct competitors, rather the GX550 will be a premium offering from Toyota Corporation’s luxury brand, with the Prado is less a luxury offering, and more a mainstream choice for a family wagon or even fleet workhorse.
In this story, we run the ruler over both the upmarket Lexus GX and its close cousin, the more affordable Toyota Prado, to see what differences exist between the pair. ?
Both the Lexus GX and Toyota Prado will share similar dimensions and, given they are built off an identical platform, they have an identical wheelbase.
Both the Lexus GX and 250 Series Prado have the spare tyre fitted under the floor, finally dispatching the old-school backdoor position still used by the current 150 Series Prado. This likely means a loss of fuel capacity for Prado, down from the current Prado’s 150 litres on tap – especially given that we know that new GX550 in some markets has only 80-litre capacity.
Dimension
Landcruiser Prado 250 Series
LandCruiser Prado 150 Series
Length
4925mm
4995/4825mm (flat tailgate)
Width
1980mm
1885mm
Height
1870mm
1850mm
Wheelbase
2850mm
2790mm
Ground clearance
221mm
220mm
Approach/breakover/departure angles
31/22u00ba
30.4/23.5u00ba
New Prado boasts larger measurements all around: it is longer than the existing model and is also wider, slightly taller and rides on a longer wheelbase (which is shared with the 300 Series).
Lexus has not published dimensions for the GX, except for wheelbase. Given that the two models share a platform, and the Lexus wheelbase measurement is identical to Prado, you can assume that the other dimensions will be similar, if not the same.
The new GX and Prado will share their underpinnings with the 300 Series, meaning they use the TNGA-F ladder-frame chassis which Toyota claims is 50 per cent more rigid than the existing Prado 150, and overall vehicle rigidity is improved by 30 per cent.
Toyota also says that the new, stiff platform allows for better suspension performance, with the new model offering more wheel travel for off-roading and better on-road handling and ride comfort.
The Prado will also have better wheel travel off-road because of Toyota’s stabiliser-bar disconnect system at the front. There will also be the multi-terrain select and multi-terrain monitor systems we’re already familiar with from Toyota.
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Electric-assist power steering will make its way to new Prado, and presumably also the GX.
Toyota notes this technology allows the inclusion of safety systems such as lane trace assist.
The Lexus will have double-wishbone front and four-link rigid axle rear suspension like the Prado, but the GX will have adaptive variable suspension (AVS) – a feature that may stand it apart from new Prado.
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Electric-assist power steering will make its way to new Prado and the GX550. Toyota notes this technology allows the inclusion of safety systems, such as lane trace assist.
The Lexus has double-wishbone front and four-link rigid axle rear suspension like Prado Both GX550 and Prado (depending on trim level) will have adaptive variable suspension (AVS).
The Lexus GX550 is out now, with the Overtrail the first time Lexus has made a departure into a more off-road oriented model. These further enhances the GX’s off-road credentials with a range of features that give the new SUV better off-road capability.
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Toyota has announced Prado’s extensive safety features.
All Prado variants will be fitted with a full suite of active safety technology, including front and rear autonomous emergency braking, lane-trace assist, blind-spot alert and adaptive cruise control.
It also has nine airbags – up from seven – along with trailer sway control, active traction control, downhill assist control, and ‘crawl’ off-road cruise control with five selectable speed settings.
Under the bonnet of new Prado will be a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine producing 150kW of power and 500Nm of torque. This is the same 48-volt system going into upcoming Hilux models next year.
Power is sent to the wheels through a new ‘Direct Shift 8AT’ eight-speed automatic transmission, and launch with the choice of five or seven seats.
Meanwhile we know that the new Lexus GX550 is offered with a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Both Prado and GX550 powertrains use a full-time four-wheel drive system with dual-range transfer case providing off-road gearing and also a locking centre differential.
A big lift in cabin design sees the Prado offer a large centre console and a dash dominated by large screens.
The Prado, it will share a similar interior design to GX550. Toyota has paid attention to criticisms that manufacturers have included too many touch ‘buttons’ to be safe for drivers to use without causing distraction, so there are still plenty of actual button controls.
The Prado will be offered in a five- or seven-seat configuration, depending on model. Meanwhile we know a lot more about the Lexus.
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All models will have a 14-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 10-speaker audio system, five USB-C ports, wireless phone charger, head-up display, 360-degree camera system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The GX550 is offered with seven seats available across three rows, with the second row able to be configured as a trio of bench seats or individual captain’s chairs.
Standard on all models from the Luxury up includes leather interior, eight-way power-adjustable front seats with lumbar and memory functions, heated and ventilated front seats, heated outer second-row seats, and power-folding third-row seats (for Luxury and Sports Luxury).
Toyota has announced new Prado 250 prices: $72,500 before on-road costs for the entry-level GX to $99,990 for the top-of-the-range Kakadu.
With price rises between $9670 and $12,432 across the line-up, this still leaves enough clean air between the new Prado and the Lexus GX550, which kicks off at $116,000.
The GX starts at $72,500, the GXL $79,990, VX is $87,400, Altitude is $92,700 and Kakadu is $99,900 (all prices plus on-road costs).
New features across the LandCruiser Prado line-up include a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system, a 7- or 12.3-inch instrument cluster display (up from 4.2-inch), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Toyota Connected Services, a 360-degree camera system, front and rear parking sensors, USB-C ports, a 220-volt power outlet, and standard climate control.
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The GXL adds an electric tailgate – which is now flat on all models with the spare wheel mounted underneath – standard leather-accented upholstery, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a wireless phone charger over the outgoing model.
The VX now features 20-inch alloy wheels (up from 19-inch), a full-digital instrument cluster, adaptive variable suspension, a power-adjustable steering wheel, multi-terrain select, and a Toyota-first multi-terrain monitor to view the vehicle’s underfloor while driving. The “adventure-focused” Altitude is a new permanent variant in the line-up, borrowing its name from limited edition Prado models offered between 2012 and 2017.
It replaces adaptive variable suspension with a stabiliser disconnect mechanism to provide “an extra 10 per cent of wheel articulation to help maximise traction on uneven surfaces” and reverts to 18-inch alloys with all-terrain tyres.
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Topping the new Prado range is the Kakadu, which now sports a digital rear-view mirror, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated rear seats, a panoramic moon roof, illuminated side steps, a head-up display, and a rear torque-sensing limited-slip differential.
As for the Lexus, it has been confirmed that the entry model the GX550 Luxury has a power tailgate with hinged glass, tow bar and wiring, roof rails, auto-levelling LED headlights, rear privacy glass, 20-in alloy wheels, tyre pressure monitoring and a rear spoiler.
Meanwhile, the off-road oriented Overtrail key features includes off-road assistance systems used in LandCruiser GR Sport such as electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (eKDSS), front swaybar disconnect, Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) off-road traction control, Multi-Terrain Monitor, multi-stage Crawl Control, Downhill Assist Control and a locking rear diff.
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There’s also aluminium skid plates unique black bumper design and wheel arch surrounds, and 18-inch wheels shod with all-terrain tyres.
A larger alternator, refrigerated centre console storage unit card-shaped smart key while seats are upholstered with olive green stitching and Ultrasuede accents.
Finally, the top-spec GX550, the Sports Luxury, is equipped with adaptive variable suspension, five configurable drive modes 22-inch alloys, adaptive high-beam headlights, auto-extending side steps, a fixed panoramic roof, semi-aniline leather-accented trim, unique dashboard finish, digital rear-view mirror, multi-colour ambient interior illumination, massaging front seats, refrigerated centre storage unit, 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a heated steering wheel.
The stories below will give you a guide to everything we learned about the new Prado when it was unveiled. All fresh stories published since then will be found on our Toyota Prado model page here.
Every serious off-road vehicle needs a snorkel. This essential tool not only helps vehicles navigate deep water crossings but also elevates air intake, allowing cleaner, dust-free air to reach the engine.
In a typical vehicle, the air intake is often located in the inner wheel arch or under the hood. These positions can expose the intake to dust, heat, and water, which can hinder engine performance. By installing a snorkel, the air intake is raised to a higher, cooler position, reducing the chances of dust contamination. Cooler, cleaner air is vital for optimal engine performance, making it easier to tackle challenging terrains like Big Red.
A well-sealed snorkel system protects your engine from water and dust ingress while ensuring a constant supply of cleaner air. Additionally, a well-designed snorkel enhances the vehicle’s appearance – so as an affordable upgrade, a snorkel improves both aesthetics and functionality, making it especially valuable for those planning off-road adventures.
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Essentially, sealed snorkels prevent water and dust from entering the engine, while unsealed options prioritise air intake but lack water and dust protection. As a result, serious off-roaders typically choose a sealed snorkel over an unsealed one, as the latter struggles in dusty or wet conditions.
The market is generally covered by stainless steel and plastic (poly) options, with plastic ultimately being the most popular for its wider range and cheaper price point. Plastic units typically sit more flush against a vehicle and are quieter; stainless steel snorkels are tougher, and will withstand damage more than plastic models. In the end it’s personal preference when it comes to construction.
Quality aftermarket snorkels are designed for specific vehicles, while cheaper alternatives may not fit properly. Investing in a high-quality snorkel from a reputable supplier can be one of the best decisions for your off-roading endeavours, ensuring your engine remains protected during your travels. Remember that extensive testing and development goes into a quality snorkel, so purchasing from a trusted brand ensures reliability and minimal impact on your vehicle’s performance.
Manufacturers usually provide detailed installation instructions for DIY enthusiasts. Those with tool-handling experience can fit snorkels in a few hours. However, cutting into your vehicle’s body can be daunting, so it’s wise to consider professional installation if you’re not comfortable with metalwork. It’s also crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain your vehicle warranty regarding water wading and general use. During installation, make sure to treat all holes for rust protection and ensure that all parts are properly sealed.
A more detailed guide to 4×4 snorkels ?
It’ll take you 24 hours to drive from Perth to Broome, so there’s no doubt WA is gigantic! But there are some ripping 4WD tracks not too far from the state’s capital.
Day-trippers can bask in the beauty of Walyunga National Park, only 50km northeast of Perth, or weekenders can venture a tad further to a bunch of the state’s other great National Parks. All of these parks are worth the journey and will certainly warrant a return visit. Have you got a favourite track we missed? Add it to the comments below.
Barely an hour from Perth, this 1800-hectare national park is a popular day-trip destination for Perth residents, but it really deserves at least two days if you’re a keen bushwalker, paddler or angler.
Off-roading is at a minimum, but the park’s main feature is the Swan River which runs through the park and offers great swimming, fantastic paddling (kayak or canoe), and the chance to explore the river’s edge on foot.
In the winter months the water level is higher, resulting in some cracking sections of rapids to negotiate (the famous Avon Descent – a white-water paddling event – is held each August). In summer, when the river is generally lower, the park’s three deep pools – Syd’s Rapids, Walyunga and Boongarup – are popular swimming holes.
You can float around them on a Lilo, or take a leisurely canoe trip downriver. For anglers, the river offers the chance to throw a line in for trout, which isn’t a bad way to bag a feed for the night’s camp.
The national park is characterised by spectral flooded gum trees running along the side of the river. As you move up the valley slopes the vegetation changes to more open wandoo (white gum) woodlands, before you encounter impressive examples of jarrah trees up on the ridgelines. For lovers of wildflowers, springtime sees the landscape transform into a kaleidoscope of colour as the numerous varieties of wildflower bloom.
According to WA National Parks, Walyunga NP contains one of the largest aboriginal campsites and one that was still used by the local Nyoongar people late last century – there are claims it has been used as a meeting place for more than 6000 years. This site is located at the western end of Walyunga Pool, which is located at the end of the road of the same name.
For bushwalkers young and old, the park’s tracks are ideal. For families, the flat 5.2km Syd’s Rapids Trail (leaving from Boongarup Pool) leads to some of the sections of rapids used in the Avon Descent, which can be seriously challenging in high-water conditions. The Echidna Trail – an 11km loop that will take three to four hours, and starting from Walyunga lower pool – is more of a challenge for experienced bushwalkers.
The rewards of this walk are the chance to stroll through fields of wildflowers (when in season), as well as along the Swan River’s banks, before you ascend through heathlands on the way to the steep summit of Woodsome Hill (the views over the Avon Valley are brilliant). Keep an eye out for the park’s rich birdlife (black-faced cuckoos, parrots and galahs) while you take a breather before the descent.
Other walks include the Kingfisher and Kangaroo trails, with the Kangaroo Trail (4km; easy grade) involving some rock-hopping across creeks, while the Kingfisher – at 8.5km and a medium grade, longer alternative to the Kangaroo – travels through wandoo woodlands.
The campground here is a first-come, first-served arrangement and is around two kilometres from the Swan River and is a small site that has fire-rings and basic bush camping facilities – in other words, the perfect spot to escape the popular visitor sites within the park.
Walyunga NP may be a small ‘blip’ on the radar of off-road tourers, but it offers all we love in regards to tranquil bush camping settings, oodles of bushwalking and some fantastic swimming and paddling opportunities. Plus, it’s all within an hour of the bright lights of Perth!
It’s a weekender goldmine south of Perth, and Wellington National Park, around 2.5 hours’ drive away, is yet another example.
The 17,000-hectare park contains the ubiquitous jarrah, marri and blackbutt timber, as well as the spectacular Collie River valley gorge, Wellington Dam, and – in season – up to 300 species of wildflower. The park is packed with adventure and leisure opportunities including camping, swimming, paddling (raft/canoe/kayak), fishing, swimming, cycling and bushwalking.
Wellington NP has two campgrounds: Honeymoon Pool, which lives up to its name in terms of being pristine; and Potters Gorge, which has just been upgraded.
Honeymoon Pool campground is set right beside the pretty Collie River and has 20 tent-only sites, along with wood barbecues (there are gas-operated jobbies in the day-use area next to the campground), as well as picnic tables and toilets. It’s a great camp location for the beautiful river views and surrounds, and also for a swim in warmer months.
Potters Gorge has copped a redevelopment, the result of the WA government’s Parks for People caravan and camping initiative which has seen $21 million invested in getting people outdoors and camping in national parks (NSW, take bloody note).
The result is impressive, with 55 sites within the campground that cater for small, medium and larger camper-trailer/vans and caravans, or you can just set up your tent on the tent pads at each site.
The campground includes a mountain-bike pump track, walk paths designed for “mobility-impaired visitors” and direct access to the Sika Trail, a dual-use (MTB and walking) track that links to other tracks in the park as well as to the park’s kiosk (drinks, food and MTB hire is available here), located at the nearby Wellington Dam. Unsurprisingly, with all these facilities and an encouraging attitude to outdoor activities in the park, the campground is very popular.
The activities are many, with mountain biking popular thanks to the pump-track, the fire trails to explore and the 40km Mt Lennard Mountain Bike Trail Circuit. Smartly, the circuit offers six trail loops for all levels of riders, starting at a 4km loop and going through to the longest, at 11.5km, so definitely load up the MTBs for this weekend destination.
A more MTB touring-oriented trail is the section of the long-distance Munda Biddi Cycle trail (this links Perth to Albany), which makes for a great few hours riding if you have younger kids.
The Collie River (and to a lesser extent, Wellington Dam itself) offers tons of water-based activities, with canoes and kayaks the best way to explore this waterway and/or the dam.
The nearby Preston River is also worth a paddle, but be aware of that river’s rapids (or just portage around them). You can also fish in the river and dam, with trout (rainbow and brown) and cobbler two prevalent species. There’s also the chance to catch marron (freshwater crayfish), but only in season (January-February).
For those who like to get vertical, there’s some climbing and abseiling at The Quarry. When Wellington Dam was built during the 1930s, The Quarry was the source for the rock that would make up the dam’s wall. Now, it’s a cracking climbing destination (you will need to book beforehand) and is located just below the Dam’s cafe.
Off-roading in the park is relatively straightforward on the main tracks and roads, but there is a sweet loop that takes in the 4×4-only Lennard Track, Sailors Gully and the Jump-ups, with Lennard Track in particular a great drive as it follows alongside the Collie River.
Bushwalking is popular in the park; tackle Jabitj Trail if you’re up for a challenge. This 12km-return jaunt takes you from the Dam kiosk to Honeymoon Pool and then back. It’s a relatively straightforward jaunt, but make sure you take water and swimmers (for a cooling swim in the Collie River).
Kurliiny Tjenangitj Trail is, at 9.5km, a shorter loop and leads to a lookout that offers great views across the valley. The Sika dual-use trail is another 9.5km loop that winds through stands of jarrah on its way north from the kiosk to Potters Gorge. Again, don’t forget the swimmers.
In terms of weekend escape bang for your bucks, Wellington NP is hard to beat, especially at it’s only 2.5 hours’ drive from the city. Being able to go for that last morning swim and still have plenty of time to pack before returning to town is the icing on the cake.
This national park, around five hours’ drive from Perth in the lower south-west of WA, is part of the larger Walpole Wilderness Area and sprawls across the Shannon River basin.
The park is relatively new, having been gazetted as a national park in 1988. Before this, ‘The Shannon’, as it is colloquially known, was a former logging area, but even that was only recent in terms of European history in Australia – with a severe timber shortage to address following World War II, the WA state government was desperate to find new sources.
The Shannon area’s rugged terrain (a mix of wetlands, heathlands and steep hills) meant it was deemed inaccessible – or, only at great time and cost – but the desperate need for timber soon saw that change and, by the late 1940s, timber cutting had begun, with a mill built in what is the northern section of the park. A town farther south was also built to house the workers and their families.
Again, it is the mighty karri tree that dominates the park, but visitors will also find stands of jarrah, paperbark and blackbutt scattered around the area. The park is a definite must-visit for those keen on checking out the various tall timbers, but there’s plenty more to do here as well including a number of bushwalks, canoeing in the Shannon River, and the 50km Great Forest Trees Drive.
This dirt-road route kicks off just north of the South Western Highway from the park’s day-use area and takes visitors on a winding journey through the wildly varied landscape that is contained within the park, before it reaches Shannon campground (the location of the former township).
From old- and new-growth karri and jarrah, the track traverses heathland, vast sedgelands and areas dotted with rugged granite outcrops. WA National Parks has installed a number of signposted information stops along the drive, and there are plenty of stopping points to access views of the park.
Highlights in the northern part of the drive include Shannon Dam and Shannon River, both great locations for canoeing and bird-spotting. The dam was originally built to service the mill and town of Shannon and as assurance of water supply in times of drought. The dam is also the start-point for some of the park’s bushwalks (more later).
From Shannon Dam, the drive continues south taking you to the excellent Snake Gully Lookout and then on to Big Tree Grove where – you guessed it – you can gawk at the amazing height of the karri trees. Then, it is on to the campground.
Shannon NP’s campground has just been upgraded and now has more than 60 campsites, suitable for everything from tents through to big caravans. Amenities are impressive with hot showers, gas barbecues and upgraded walking tracks nearby.
It’s a far cry from the 90-house township that was once here; the houses circled a communal area and the town included a butcher, baker, post office, school and church, among other amenities and services.
Running water was non-existent back then, as was electricity after midnight, but the township trundled along happily until the mill’s closure in 1968. The surrounding forests were logged for a further 15 years, until 1983, after the town’s houses were sold off and removed from the area, before the eventual gazetting (as mentioned) of the park (there are still some remnants – introduced trees, house footings – dotted around the campground).
Besides paddling the dam, the other popular outdoor activity in this park is bushwalking. The Rocks Walk Trail, at 5.5km, is a cracker, with the undulating path taking you through the ubiquitous stands of karri, as well as across small creeks and onto the track’s highest point, the boardwalked Mokares Rock, a granite outcrop that supplies expansive over-forest views. Other tracks include sections of the Bibbulmun Track (WA’s long-distance trail), the Shannon Dam Trail (3.5km) and the aptly-named Great Forest Trees Walk (are you sensing a theme yet?).
It’s a lesser-known park, but for those keen to check out some of WA’s more recent history, as well as the still-wild landscape, Shannon NP is well worth a weekend.
Big trees and big adventure await those who visit Warren National Park, located 15km from Pemberton, inland from the southwest coastline of WA and around three hours’ drive from Perth.
The ‘big trees’ are, of course, WA’s famous karri trees. These massive eucalypts grow straight, tall and true up to a height of 90m. Interestingly, early settlers used some of these tall trees as lookout points for spotting bushfires.
Visitors to the park can actually climb up three of them, following a route via metal pegs that were hammered into the trees, before reaching the top and being rewarded with all-encompassing views over the surrounding national park landscape. It’s not for those adverse to heights, but it’s an amazing experience if you’re up for a bit of a challenge.
The most popular touring route through the 3130-hectare national park is the Heartbreak Trail, so named due to the hardship experienced by those who cut the track into the rugged, rocky terrain (created to aid in bushfire fighting).
Visitors get the benefit of all that toil, as the one-way 12km drive is steep (and can be slippery in wet conditions), but is a cracker, dropping down to the Warren River (some great stopovers along this section are beside the rapids of Heartbreak Crossing) before ascending the other side through more karri-dense forests. You can also link into a longer journey, dubbed the Karri Forest Explorer, an 86km route that winds its way through other areas of karri forest outside the park.
Camping in the park revolves around two sites (fees apply), both of which are located off Maidens Bush Trail. Draftys Campground has 22 sites and a cool camp kitchen that houses gas barbecues and other cooking facilities, as well as excellent lookout decks from which you can check out the Warren River.
Warren Campground, a smaller six-site location (some sites are riverside, others are a bit farther back in the bush), has wood barbecues (you have to supply your own firewood) and is slightly more isolated and remote. For keen paddlers (canoe or kayak) Warren Campground also offers a put-in point to the river of the same name, with more lookout platforms above the launch site.
The national park is a fantastic destination for waterborne adventures, with three canoe put-in points dotted along the Warren River. Along with the aforementioned Warren Campground (and its stairs right down to the water), you can access the river at Maiden Bush and Blackbutt and then get down to the fun task of exploring the park via the river. The Warren River is a Grade 2 waterway, meaning it has some small rapids dotted along its length, so you will need some previous paddling experience.
Bushwalkers are also well catered for at Warren NP. The 10.5km Warren River Loop includes plenty of hills as you pass dense karri forest on your way through the Warren River Valley, and the rapids at Heartbreak Crossing make a nice food stop, as does Warren Lookout.
Mountain bikers can ride the vehicular tracks in the park or, if you’re a bit keener, the nearby (free) Pemberton Forest MTB tracks will keep you entertained for a day, with its mix of beginner through to more testing tracks. For anglers, the park is a bit of a goldmine, with trout the catch of choice – or you may get lucky and snare a marron (freshwater crayfish or yabbie).
Warren National Park is a park with plenty of big stuff in it, from the huge karri trees to the many opportunities for outdoor activities and off-road touring. Even though packing all that gear – bikes, canoe, fishing gear and camping equipment – can be a painful task, the effort here would be well worth your while.
Claimed to be the most popular national park in Western Australia, this 19,092-hectare giant lays its claim to that crown thanks to the gigantic shed-load of activities available.
There’s surfing, swimming, diving, hiking, cycling, touring, camping, fishing and more. Plus, there’s the epic landscape combination of pristine coastline abutting the often-ferocious swells of the Indian Ocean meshed with heavily timbered forest behind the dunes. Throw in the added bonus of historical homesteads and lighthouses, as well as some amazing caves (thanks to the Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridgeline), and it fills that cliché of something for everyone.
To that effect, the park is a long-weekend destination at a minimum, but, thanks to its manageable distance from Perth, that just gives you the excuse to return more than once… and you’ll definitely want to.
The park has four campgrounds – Boranup, Point Road, Conto and the recently-completed Jarrahdene – with all of these being of the first-arrive, best-score type. Point Road has probably the most appeal to off-roaders as it is accessed via a 4×4-only track and is a small campground (it has space for roughly seven tents) sheltered from winds on the edge of the Boranup karri forest, with access to the nearby coastline via Point Road itself.
Conto, with 116 campsites, is ideal for larger groups and those after a bit more space along with some ‘luxuries’, such as a campers’ kitchen, tables, toilets and barbecues. Plus, it’s right next to Conto Springs Beach. Boranup is another small campground (only seven sites) located in the middle of Boranup karri forest, so if you want a bit of solitude (here or at Point Road) you’ll need to be quick, especially in summer and school holiday periods.
Jarrahdene campground is a schmick new addition to the bush accommodation options in the park, with the first stage of what is a $2.7 million investment opened in late January this year. The campground is south of the Margaret River and nestled beside the historic site of the Heritage-listed Jarrahdene Mill, which was built in 1896. The campground has 24 campsites, each with its own table and firepit, with five toilet blocks and four sheltered barbecue areas scattered throughout.
The Cape-to-Cape walking track is rated one of Australia’s best multi-day hiking experiences and, as its name suggests, it travels between Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse in the north and its Cape Leeuwin counterpart in the south (both these open to visitors). The full distance is 135km, but you can walk a number of the track’s sections as day-walks or even shorter ambles if you wish.
There are numerous beaches for swimming or diving. The more sheltered Cape Naturaliste and Shelley Cove in the north offer ideal swim spots for families; as does Bunker Bay, located on the northern side of Cape Naturaliste. Anglers can fish all along the coastline and offshore (in your own boat or with a fishing charter). Expect to catch salmon, snapper, tailor and dhufish, but be aware of bag limits.
Surfing is super-popular with the Indian Ocean swells regarded as top-notch by wax-heads worldwide. Margaret River, Guillotines, South Point and Gallows are just some of the surf spots, and there are myriad others.
Away from the coast and it’s time to head underground. The park contains numerous caves, with visitors able to explore any number of them, including Calgardup and Giants Cave. For those not up to an independent caving experience, you can opt for guided tours of Mammoth Cave and Lake Cave.
Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is packed with stuff to do. Our best advice is to tackle a long weekend first in the north, then return a few more times to spend weekends in the south, before exploring the park hinterland. And then do it all again.
When you’re hitting the outback or setting up camp at a bush site, clean water is imperative.
That’s where the Guzzle H2O Stream comes in. This top-notch water purification system is perfect for Aussie adventurers, campers, and anyone needing a reliable source of clean drinking water while off the grid.
I’ve been running the Guzzle H2O Stream for the past couple of years and this portable UV water purification system has been a game-changer. Whether setting up camp beside a river or exploring the rugged terrain of outback Queensland, this device has ensured that I’ve always had a dependable supply of clean drinking water.
The self-contained unit doesn’t need any extra gizmos to function; with just the push of a button, the system pumps, filters and purifies water from virtually any fresh water source, so there’s no need to carry a lot of water with you, or to worry about where your next drink will come from.
One of the standout features of the Guzzle H2O Stream is its water-processing efficiency. It can pump and filter water at a maximum rate of 2.7 litres per minute (lpm). Furthermore, the device can purify up to 120 litres of water on a single battery charge, making it ideal for longer expeditions where access to clean water is limited. This means you can fill up your water tank or jerry can without breaking a sweat, making it suited to solo adventurers and families alike.
At the heart of the Guzzle H2O Stream’s effectiveness is its advanced LED UV-C purification, which has been third-party tested to inactivate 99.99 per cent of bacteria, protozoa and viruses. And the purification system is NSF 55 listed, so you can be sure it’s providing clean water whether your source is crystal-clear creek or a murky billabong.
In addition to its UV-C purification capabilities, the Guzzle H2O Stream features a 0.5-micron activated carbon block filter. This filter plays a crucial role in reducing sediment, chlorine taste and odour, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemical contaminants that may be present in water. The carbon block filter is particularly effective at improving the taste and quality of water, which is especially important when sourcing water from natural bodies.
The carbon block filter can handle up to 3785 litres per cartridge before it needs replacement. This long lifespan not only makes the Guzzle H2O Stream cost-effective to maintain but also ensures that you won’t have to worry about frequent filter changes, even on extended trips. When the time does come to replace the filter, the process is straightforward, requiring minimal effort.
The system also includes a pre-filter to remove larger particles and sediment before the water reaches the UV-C purification stage. The pre-filter ensures that the main filtration system isn’t overwhelmed by debris, allowing the device to work effectively even in challenging conditions. I’ve recently been sent an upgraded pre-filter that contains a heavier weight to keep the filter below the waterline; the filter is larger and finer, significantly reducing sediment and particulates from reaching the next purification stage.
For those who frequent established campgrounds, the Guzzle H2O Stream’s ability to connect to standard hoses is a significant benefit. This feature allows you to use the device with campground water supplies, filtering and purifying the water to remove any residual chemicals or contaminants that might affect taste or safety.
The Guzzle H2O Stream is built tough and designed to withstand harsh conditions, with an IP67 waterproof rating that protects it from dust and water ingress. All components are NSF-listed or made from FDA-approved materials, so you know it’s built to last.
The Guzzle H2O Stream is powered by a rechargeable 3000mAh LiFePO4 battery that is capable of filtering and purifying up to 340 litres of water on a single charge, depending on the mode used. The device offers two modes: Pumping Mode, which supports 120 litres of water at a 2.83 lpm flow rate; and Pressurised Mode, which supports 340 litres at a 4.16 lpm flow rate.
These options provide flexibility, allowing you to choose the mode that best suits your needs at any given time. I’ve used the Guzzle H2O Stream in caravan parks, service stations, and roadside stops to refill my drinking water tank using the Pressurised Mode, and it is a faster filling method by far.
The Guzzle H2O Stream can be recharged using a 240v charger or a 12v plug, making it compatible with various power sources, and ensuring reliability no matter where your adventures take you.
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The Guzzle H2O Stream weighs 6kg, so it’s light enough to pack without weighing you down. Its dimensions are 330 x 255 x 215mm, so it doesn’t take up much space either. And an intuitive interface means that even those with little experience in water purification can operate it without difficulty.
Cleaning and storage is straightforward. After treating silty water, the Guzzle H2O Stream should be flushed with clean fresh water. Steve from Off-Grid Adventure Co suggests, “For long-term storage, it’s a good idea to remove the carbon filter and run the system dry; it will pump the water out of itself. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to flush (the unit) with clean water if your source was particularly nasty. Then store the system with the carbon filter housing removed so that the insides can air dry as much as possible.”
The Guzzle H2O Stream is a cracker of a product that will meet the needs of anyone who requires a dependable source of drinking water while off the grid.
RRP: $2350
We’ve shortlisted 15 of the boldest and most capable 4x4s roaming Australia, to compete for the 2024 Custom 4×4 of the Year title.
We’ve featured dozens of custom creations online and in 4X4 Australia magazine this year, and we’ve finished the tricky task of narrowing the massive field down to just 15 contenders that will compete for the crown.
Now the task of picking the best Custom 4X4OTY of 2024 is in your hands.
Simply by voting for a winner, you’ll go into the draw to win our voter prize: A Maxxis Tyres voucher valued at $1000. The owner of the winning custom 4×4 not only claims the 2024 silverware, but also wins a Maxxis Tyre voucher valued at $2000.
Voting is now closed.
Terms & Conditions
Conditions apply, see www.whichcar.com.au/terms-and-conditions. Commences 5 October 2024. Ends 23:59 AEDST on 8 November 2024. Open to AU residents 18+. Only one entry per person. Drawn at 4×4 Media, Sydney at 11:00 AEDST on November 1, 2024. Prizes: Maxxis Tyre Voucher for winning Vehicle – $2000 + Maxxis Tyre Voucher for winning online entrant – $1000 (including GST).
