Being overtaken by a huge iron horse as it shakes the ground beneath you, while negotiating a narrow dusty track that runs parallel to the railway line, is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry. This section of track in outback New South Wales follows the continental-crossing, man-made, coast-to-coast Transcontinental Railway.
In just a couple of days you’ll also be treated to the amazing colours of the canola and lavender fields near Parkes, the relatively undiscovered outback oasis that is Lake Cargelligo and spectacular camping spots at Lake Mungo and the Kinchega National Parks. If you have the time and want to extend this adventure, you can roughly follow the railway line all the way to Perth.
Departing from Sydney, our route will pass the remote towns of Ivanhoe and Hillston in central New South Wales, then on to Lake Mungo via Darnick before arriving at the spectacular and culturally rich Kinchega and Menindee National Parks. The adventure ends at Broken Hill.
A highly recommended first camp along this route is Frogs Hollow bush campsite on the banks of Lake Cargelligo, just 400km from Sydney. Lake Cargelligo is an old gold mining settlement. There are no facilities at this campsite, but it’s perfect all the same due to the incredibly calm lake – you can even hear fish jumping as you sleep.
After a great night’s sleep it’s back on the road again toward Merri Merrigal along a large section of, what is now known as, the dusty Cobb Highway. This road was originally used in the 1840s for moving stock from NSW and Queensland to Victoria as part of the ‘Long Paddock’.
Continue north-west and take the track signposted for Roto, and then on to Ivanhoe. This is where the fun starts and where you’ll get your first real taste of what you came for: to kick up the red dust. Next stop Hillston.
The driving conditions on these unsealed tracks are highly dependent on the weather – if it rains, expect road closures. Thankfully for us it was sunny and dry and the Land Rover’s Td5 diesel engine was purring as we left behind a trail of dust. We were now progressing alongside the trans-continental railway line.
Here, there are two tracks to choose from; both running parallel to the world famous railway. The first is the main dirt road and the second is the narrower and more challenging track that runs closer to the railway. The narrower track is mostly used for railway maintenance vehicles and in many places these maintenance tracks run on both sides of the line; the idea being to stop service trucks from crossing the tracks.
When tackling the smaller track, make sure you lower your tyre pressure as there’s sure to be plenty of bulldust. This track can also be pretty rough and uneven in spots with unexpected depressions, so best advice is to keep speed down.
If you’ve ever had the privilege of being a passenger on the Indian Pacific train, you’ll be aware it’s marketed as the longest and one of the greatest rail journeys on the planet. It’s an ocean-to-ocean adventure over three days covering a whopping 4352km.
The railway line also boasts a single stretch of straight railway track covering a staggering 487km that crosses the Nullarbor Plain from outback South Australia into Western Australia. While it sounds incredible, I’d still prefer to tackle the narrow dusty railway line track in my hot, creaky, bouncy, air condition-less Land Rover Defender as opposed to looking out the window of a luxurious carriage, sipping champagne. Sure, our chosen mode of transport is a bit slower, bouncier and a bit lower to the ground in comparison to the luxury of the elevated first class soundproof train carriage, but exploring this stretch of land on four wheels will guarantee you a sense of adventure and the opportunity to be consumed by the surrounding environment.
As you drive alongside the railway line toward the distant horizon, you cannot help but think how harsh conditions must have been for the men who came from distant lands to build it, using the most basic tools including picks, shovels, carthorses and camels. You can almost sense the sweat and tears that went into this fantastic man-made piece of infrastructure that took five years to build.
As we progressed along the track en route to Ivanhoe we unfortunately didn’t get a chance to see the Indian Pacific train, but we were overtaken by a Pacific National train – one of Australia’s largest private rail freight businesses, connecting freight between the western and eastern seaboards.
Seeing one of these trains thunder past you is a bit like being in an action packed scene from a Mad Max movie as the noise of the huge diesel engine overpowers your immediate space, shaking the ground beneath you. The train driver certainly made his presence felt, sounding the train’s horn as he passed by.
An abundance of wildlife will cross the line as they go about their business – this is something travellers could never tire of. With emus, kangaroos and white-tailed eagles, it was a bit like driving through an open safari as you leisurely make your ways towards Ivanhoe.
Ivanhoe is a quiet town that was founded in the early 1870s and has a current population of 265 people. In its early days, the area was served by travelling Chinese and Indian hawkers, as well as camel trains, making the town a multicultural centre. It’s an opportunity to refuel and get a bite to eat at the local garage but don’t expect to do a big shop for supplies here as only the basics are available in this sleepy town.
About an hour west from Ivanhoe is Darnick, the next stop before veering away from the railway toward Pan Ban. This will lead you to the ancient lakes of Garnpung and Leaghur perched in the heart of the Mungo National Park. Despite the name, vast expanses of water are unlikely; the lakes are as dry as a camel’s back. The track takes you right through the middle of the ancient lakes and it truly is a surreal experience considering these lakes once played a key role as a source of water for the nomadic indigenous populations and the local wildlife.
Mungo National Park is part of the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area, a chain of lakes that dried up around 14,000 years ago. The National Park is also one of the most important archaeological sites in Australia and it’s believed Lake Mungo has been occupied by Aborigines for the past 50,000 years, making it one of the most important early Aboriginal sites in Australia. It’s fascinating to imagine that the dry landscapes of Lake Leaghur, Garnpung and Mungo were once filled with water and were rich and vibrant places where kangaroos (three times the size of modern ’roos), giant wombats, Tasmanian devils and the friendly hippo-like Zygomaturus once called home.
As you drive closer to Lake Garnpung a very straight-looking track that cuts right through the lake comes into view. The lake-bed track looked fine from a distance, but wheels on dirt is a different story. After sliding uncontrollably a couple of times, we ended up getting bogged. After three attempts, lowered tyre pressures and a few prayers we were out of the hole. Never be complacent driving solo here as the track conditions can quickly change.
Relieved to be back on our way, we tackled the next ancient lake: Lake Leaghur. From here you’ll catch a glimpse over the horizon at the spectacular “Great Walls of China”. The crescent-shaped dune covers 22km of sand and clay that the weather has shaped into amazing formations over time and is best viewed at sunset or sunrise.
After a very educational Mungo National Park experience, it was off to our final destination: Kinchega National Park. From Mungo it’s 53km to Reaka and a further 25km to Pooncarie. Approximately 127km of more unsealed track will take you from Pooncarie to Menindee. Kinchega National Park is located a few clicks from Menindee via a dry-weather dirt road.
There are plenty of camping choices here; we chose to camp along the Darling River, not far from where Burke and Wills set up camp in 1860. Menindee would be the last white settlement that Burke and Wills would encounter on their doomed journey across the continent. This perfect riverside campground will reward with great views of the majestic, meandering river and beautiful sounds of the river’s bird life. It’s places like this, camped alongside the Darling River, that makes Australia great for those who like to get away from it all. Without a doubt, this country offers some of the best camping locations in the world!
As you drive through the park, toward Lake Menindee’s edge, you’ll be drawn by the ghostly lifeless black wood gum trees that idly protrude from the lake bed. The strange appearance of these trees is due to extensive flooding over time that eventually led to the death of the trees. They are now a key feature that distinguishes this lake district from others in Australia. We pulled over on the lake’s edge on a number of occasions to embrace this unusual sight.
Australia offers some incredible and very reachable outback destinations with a standard 4WD. The far west of outback NSW is one such destination.
What you will enjoy most about this trip is not just the diverse landscape but rather the unique opportunity to travel on a section of the 4352km dusty narrow tracks that runs parallel to a railway line that tracks all the way to Perth via Broken Hill.
This adventure will provide decent 4WD tracks, remoteness and an ability to set up camp anywhere along the railway line alongside outback wildlife.
In the six days it took to complete this outback adventure we got bogged, lost, experienced prehistoric landforms and enjoyed a taste of outback driving that left the Land Rover with a nice red glow as we reluctantly drove back into Sydney.
We might have to take the train next time.
4X4 Australia editor Matt takes Marks 4WD Adapters Auto Land Cruiser Ute for a spin. Check out what he has to say.
For more information on the LC 70 Series, grab a copy of the Jan 2015 issue of 4X4 Australia.
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4×4 Australia’s magazine’s Glenn Torrens shares his tips on driving on dirt roads. Watch our video to find out more!
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While it’s true that Australia has no (land-based) macro-predators, visitors are still amazed at how ‘deadly’ our creatures are, not to mention some of our spectacular stinging and spiky plants.
Let’s have a look at the facts and myths of the things that make us squirm.
SNAKES
Australia hosts 20 out of 25 of the world’s most venomous snakes and we see around 3000 snake bites (to people) per year. In 1906, the death rate for snake bites was reportedly as high as 40 to 50 per cent for untreated bites. People are still getting bitten by snakes at about the same rate, however, on average just one or two reported snake bites will prove fatal with the availability of effective antivenins reducing snake bite mortality immensely. 60 per cent of snake bite deaths in Australia are attributable to the eastern brown snake.
Advice: Snake bites are the result of human interference. You are not on their food chain so they will only bite you if provoked. Treat every snake bite as potentially deadly. If you don’t, it could be. The trick is to get to a medical practitioner – quickly.
SPIDERS
Spiders are the most widely distributed venomous creature in Australia. There are estimated to be about 10,000 species of spider here, including six of the world’s ten most venomous. They are also high on the phobia list. Their venom contains a cocktail of chemicals and a bite from an Australian funnel-web spider can kill a human within two hours. But it probably won’t. And, there are common reports that a white-tailed spider bite may cause localised necrosis – not death. Records indicate that no-one in Australia has died from a spider bite since 1981.
Advice: Spider venom is not meant for humans, and antivenin for the funnel-web and redback has been around since the 1950s and 1981 respectively. There’s no known cure for white-tailed spider bites, although treatment is available. So again, get to a medical practitioner asap.
SCORPIONS
In Australia, you’ll find most scorpions in arid and semi-arid regions, but they’re also found in cooler and wetter habitats. There are nine known species of scorpions in Victoria alone.
Australian scorpions are not as nasty as movies may have led you to believe. It’s true that all scorpions have a venomous sting. It’s also true that several thousand people die each year from scorpion stings – but not in Australia. The really nasty species are located in northern Africa, the Middle East, India, Mexico and parts of South America. There have been no confirmed human deaths from Australian scorpions.
Advice: In Australia you’ll get a painful sting from a scorpion that will likely result in swelling and pain for several hours. If you get stung, seek medical advice.
TICKS
Ticks are a menace. The Australian paralysis tick (ixodes holocyclus) are nasty suckers found in eastern Australia. Your immediate response to a tick bite is usually itchiness. If you don’t divest yourself of this little hitch-hiker quickly, however, serious symptoms will present themselves over time as the tick engorges itself.
These include flu-like symptoms, rashes, an unsteady gait, weak limbs and potential facial paralysis. In some people, the allergic reaction may be much greater and can include life-threatening anaphylactic shock.
Advice: To remove ticks, you can use tweezers but make sure you remove the head. Alternatively, cover them with Vaseline and the tick will remove itself because it breathes through its abdomen. If symptoms persist – see your doctor.
BULL ANTS
There are about 90 species of bull ants in Australia with diverse behaviours and life cycles. Nine bull ant species have been recorded in and around Sydney. Some of the smaller species are known as jumper ants because of their habit of aggressively jumping toward intruders.
These types of ants can be a real pain. Their throbbing sting is caused when they grip the intruder (you) with their mandibles (jaws), curling their abdomen to reveal the sting and injecting their venom. Often multiple stings are delivered.
Advice: They hurt!
SEA CREATURES
Steve Irwin died in 2006 after being pierced in the heart by a stingray barb. So while we probably all know that stingrays are potentially deadly, what you may not know is that a stingray’s barb may also contain venom! The venom causes muscle cramps whilst the bacterium on the barb will later cause infection.
Some of our other fishy friends are also potentially deadly. Among them are the toadfish, which many regard as the world’s most poisonous fish. Its neurotoxin can lead to paralysis and even death. Similarly, tread on a stonefish and you’ll get injected with venom from their spines that will cause severe pain, rapid swelling, tissue death and weakness and, if not treated, death. Then there’s the cone shell, sea anemone, blue ring octopus, jellyfish – the list goes on.
Sharks are probably one of Australia’s least understood species. As far as many of us are concerned, they’re all potentially deadly predators.
However, consider this: There have been 892 shark attacks in Australia since records began in 1791, 217 of which have been fatal. On average, that’s one per year. That leaves hundreds of thousands of sharks cruising around the world’s oceans fulfilling a vital ecological function with no direct threat to humans at all.
Advice: If you don’t like it, stay out of the water. If bitten by anything from the ocean, seek medical treatment.
OTHER CREATURES
Platypus: The male platypus has a stinger above its rear foot which it will use to inject venom when fighting other males. People are known to get stung too, primarily when platypuses inadvertently get caught on fishing lines. The sting will cause severe pain and it can cause permanent handicaps around the affected area but no fatalities have been recorded.
Advice: Ensure your tetanus shots are up to date. Do not apply bandages – seek medical aid.
Cassowary: You may not be aware but if you find yourself between a male Cassowary and its nest, its young, or simply its personal space, it can pose a real threat. It can use its legs and claws much like a cheetah, so disembowelment is not beyond the realms of possibility.
Advice: Stay clear, but if threatened put a tree between you and them (we hope you can climb).
Pesky Plants: There are plenty of nasty stinging plants in Australia. The European stinging nettle is one most of us are probably familiar with. But Australia is also home to (what some call) the world’s most venomous plant, the gympie-gympie stinging plant (dendrocnide moroides).
The gympie-gympie grows in rainforest areas in New South Wales and Queensland and is the most venomous of four closely related species of stinging trees in Australia. Its relatives are the giant stinging tree (dendrocnide excelsa), the shiny leaf stinging tree (dendrocnide photinophylla) and the Atherton Tableland stinger (dendrocnide cordata).
The gympie-gympie bush is a wooded shrub that can reach four to five metres, but is often found at around 0.1 to one metre. It grows in sunny areas protected from the wind and is often found along the edges of streams, walking tracks and roadways through the forest: smack bang where campers and four-wheel drivers will be!
It has hollow, silica-tipped hairs that penetrate the skin. The hairs contain a poison that produces an extremely painful sting which can last for days or even months. The sting is known to be potent enough to kill humans.
Advice: Treatment involves application of diluted hydrochloric acid followed by the application of waxing strips to remove the stinging hairs. This is best done by a medical practitioner – not a beautician.
The most important thing for you to do until you can get medical treatment is to avoid rubbing the area, as this can break the hairs and make them very difficult to remove from the skin.
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Disclaimer: The above article is a combination of the author’s knowledge and professional experience as an Environmental Scientist supported by open source materials and scientific journals sourced from Australian Geographic, Australian Resuscitation Council, Australian Venom Research Unit, Cape Tribulation Tropical Research Station and the Australian Museum.
NISSAN NAVARA D23
First cab off the rank is Nissan’s new ute replacing both the D22 and D40 model Navaras.
The ute is all-new and brings a fresh bi-turbo 2.3L 4-cylinder diesel engine and the option of a coil-spring rear suspension to the popular one-tonne ute market.
Single, king and double-cab body styles will be available from Nissan and there is hope for a wagon derivative some time down the track.
RANGE ROVER SPORT HYBRID and SVR
You would expect the first off-road capable hybrid vehicle to come from the leaders in off-road technology, and that’s just what Range Rover promises to deliver with its Range Rover Sport Hybrid which should be rolling in to the garage of the first Australian owners about now with more deliveries in March and April.
The Range Rover Hybrid powertrain features the well-known 3.0L SDV6 diesel engine with a 35kW electric motor integrated with the eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and unlike other hybrid SUVs, it promises to retain all of its off-road ability. Winner!
Range Rover will also deliver the scorching Sport SVR to a limited lucky few in the second quarter of the year with its 405kW and 680Nm supercharged V8 engine, while the Discovery Sport will be with us around May.
MITSUBISHI TRITON
The year of the ute continues with the all new Mitsubishi Triton debuting a fresh body and a new 2.4L diesel engine.
The value for money Triton was the third best-selling ute in 2014 and its popularity should continue with the new model that remains the only car in this class to offer full-time 4×4 with a dual range transfer case.
The Triton should be finding its way in to Mitsubishi dealerships in the second quarter of the year.
JEEP RENEGADE
It’s hard to imagine that the pint-sized Renegade could possibly live up to the Jeep name but there is a Trailhawk model in its range so we hold some hope for it.
The diminutive wagon shares its platform with the Fiat 500X and if nothing else it’s certainly cute.
FORD EVEREST and RANGER
There’s been plenty said about the all new Australian engineered Ford Everest wagon and it’s one of the most anticipated new releases of 2015. But we’ll have to wait until the third quarter of the year to drive it in its production form.
Shortly before then, the Ranger ute, on which the Everest is based, will get a refresh with a new front end and we’re hoping the new dashboard and centre stack that has been previewed in Everest find their way inside.
Ranger has been the ute taking it to the market-leading Toyota HiLux and the refresh will keep the momentum going.
MAZDA BT-50
Landing around mid-year will be a tougher looking Mazda BT-50. The ute that was co-developed with Ranger has been criticised by many for its smiley face and the update is expected to bring on a more masculine appearance along with interior revisions.
The new look is tipped to be more like that seen on the latest batch of Mazda passenger cars with more passenger car tech planned to be included in the workhorse.
TOYOTA HILUX AND LAND CRUISER
The ute many will be holding out for is the all new HiLux and this will stymie the sales of those utes launched sooner as buyers await to see just what all the players are offering. Not much is known of the new model, however mules have been spotted testing it around the globe including here in Australia. We’ll have to wait until the year’s end to drive the new HiLux and get all the specs.
The Land Cruiser 200 will be in for a refresh sometime this year as well. The 200 has been around for seven years now and already we’ve seen a mid-life update with a new petrol V8 engine introduced to the range.
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Station properties can offer travellers the ultimate outback experience. Here’s seven of the best.
EL QUESTRO WILDERNESS PARK, KIMBERLEY, WA
If you’d like to see the Kimberley, but are concerned that your vehicle or camper trailer might not be up to the rigours of the Gibb River Road, then El Questro is the place for you.
With bitumen/2WD access from Kununurra, you can set up base in a choice of campsites then explore some of the most beautiful gorges in the Kimberley unencumbered.
At one million acres in size, the diversity of El Questro’s landscape is matched only by the range of activities on offer – from a relaxing soak in the warm thermal pools of Zebedee Springs to an exhilarating climb in your 4WD to Branco’s Lookout, or an energetic hike through the magnificent El Questro Gorge and the serenity of floating along the Pentecost River through Chamberlain Gorge as the sun sets.
Walk, drive, ride, boat, you can even hire a helicopter: there are many ways to see so many beautiful things in one location.
HOME VALLEY STATION, KIMBERLEY, WA
Home Valley Station caters not only for travellers on the Gibb River Road, but for Indigenous students and trainees from many communities across the Kimberley.
Owned by the Indigenous Land Corporation, the station hosts up to 14 full-time students in Indigenous tourism, hospitality and horticultural traineeships, as well as offering a range of apprenticeships within its commercial kitchen and mechanical workshop.
As well as being a working cattle station and training facility, Home Valley Station offers a range of accommodation, tours and activities for the traveller. Horse riding, fishing, helicopter and 4WD tours are all on offer and there are numerous self-guided walking trails.
The Dusty Bar & Grill is the epicentre of the social scene at the station. From a pre-dinner drink to a full meal from the a-la-carte menu, it has a great atmosphere with its decor of station memorabilia. Most evenings, there is also free entertainment either in the bar or around the adjacent campfire. Perfect!
WILLOW SPRINGS STATION, FLINDERS RANGES, SA
Willow Springs is a working sheep station of about 70,000 acres, abutting the Flinders Ranges National Park. First taken up by the Reynolds family in 1952, Willow Springs Station supported Steve Reynolds and his three sons for 30 years. In 1985, Brendan Reynolds and his wife Carmel took the first steps in diversifying into the tourism industry. They developed the existing shearers’ quarters into visitor accommodation, as well as establishing a number of private campsites on the station.
A major highlight of their endeavours would have to be the magnificent Skytrek, which opened in 1995. The 60-odd kilometres of 4WD track winds its way around the station and up and over Mt Caernarvon, providing magnificent views of the Flinders Ranges. They also provide a booklet detailing the many points of natural, pastoral, Aboriginal and geological interest that are marked along the way. It’s six hours of your life that you’ll never forget.
LORELLA SPRINGS WILDERNESS PARK, SAVANNAH WAY, NT
Lorella Springs Wilderness Park is owned by the Walker family. The park itself is a one million acre former cattle station of largely unspoilt wilderness facing the Limmen Bight, dotted with billabongs, thermal springs, waterfalls and bird-filled wetlands.
Eighty natural springs have been identified on the property, and they are claimed to flow through the subterranean waterways from New Guinea to the Gulf of Carpentaria. This makes Lorella the best and safest place to swim on the gulf, with a range of croc-free hot and cold springs, waterfalls, deep plunge pools and everything in between.
The property is bordered by national park on two sides, the Limmen Bight of the Gulf of Carpentaria and Aboriginal land. These days, the property is used primarily as a tourism venture, with the bulk of inward traffic coming through the main gates, plus an airstrip for fly-in visitors. There are still about 1000 head of cattle behind wire, with a periodic muster to round up the wild cleanskins that wander on to the property.
The Walker family has cut 4WD tracks to help adventurers explore the attractions on offer. Visitors can drive the Billabong Loop around Rosie Creek, paddle the canoe at Flying Fox Swamp, climb the Tawallah Range for spectacular views, and walk a few feet off the beach to scoop up massive mud crabs or haul in sizeable barramundi.
MT IVE STATION, GAWLER RANGES, SA
Mt Ive Station is a 250,000 acre working sheep property set against the volcanic rock of South Australia’s Gawler Ranges, said to be over 1500 million years old.
The property provides a place for campers to take in the raw beauty of the ranges while still enjoying the comforts of powered sites, fuel, water and a licensed kiosk. It offers a number of 4WDing tracks, including a private access route to Lake Gairdner – one of Australia’s most pristine salt lakes.
To access the station, the best passage is from Iron Knob on the Eyre Highway, travelling on well-formed unsealed surfaces, although there are other options from Kimba, the Gawler Ranges National Park or from the north via Kingoonya.
The campground is well laid out, with centralised facilities and powered and unpowered sites shaded by young gums. A gazebo and barbecue area with tables and seating is close to the powered sites, while another utility room with a fridge and barbecue services the other areas.
Facilities include a recreation room and camp kitchen, while amenities include flushing toilets and hot showers, fed from one of the largest donkey systems we’ve ever seen.
The station offers a number of optional tracks to explore either by conventional or 4WD vehicle. Mud maps, trip notes and a key provide access to and highlight the points of interest, as well as supplementary information about the landscape.
OLD ANDADO STATION, SIMPSON DESERT, NT
Old Andado Station is the result of a lifetime of hard work and perseverance by the late Molly and Mac Clark.
The Clarks moved to the original Andado cattle station in 1955 to build a pastoral business. They rebuilt the original homestead as a tourism venture, showing travellers the hardships of living in such a remote location. The floors were made from cement over ash and fat, with cement walls. The roof was originally crafted from a sapling structure topped with grass thatch, and later replaced with white-washed corrugated iron. Ants, snakes, spiders and other animals were common.
The original building had no windows, plumbing or power. Water had to be carried to the kitchen, bathroom and laundry and kerosene was used for lamps and powering the fridge. Summer temperatures were often over 50°C and access was slow and arduous, via a goat trail of two tyre tracks meandering through the scrub. It wasn’t until the 1970s that a road was cut from Alice Springs to Andado via Santa Teresa.
Mac died in a light plane accident in 1978, leaving Molly (pictured above left) to press on alone. In addition to the climatic challenges, the property was subject to brucellosis and tuberculosis testing by the government in the early 1980s, resulting in the loss of all stock and, ultimately, the property.
But rather than accept defeat, Molly endured the hard times and was able to secure a Crown Lease of a small area around the original homestead. She called this Old Andado and founded a new tourism business. She set up camping facilities, cooked meals for visitors and provided personal guided tours of the homestead.
In 1993, Old Andado was listed on the Heritage Register.
After Molly passed away in 2012, Old Andado passed into the hands of her five grandchildren and the property is now maintained for visitors by volunteer caretakers.
NINGALOO STATION, CORAL COAST, WA
Ningaloo Station is 15sq km of pastoral land and is wilderness camping at its best. The spectacular bush camp is located south of Exmouth and provides access to the Cape Range National Park via Yardie Creek. The campsites sit near deserted beaches of pristine sand, waters and reef, providing the ultimate place to detach from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Ningaloo Reef is just metres offshore, so there’s plenty of sealife around and, if you’re lucky enough, you might just get a visit from a few of the local dolphins that like to frolic in the shallows. It’s 4WD-access only along corrugated roads and soft sand to campsites.
Access is via an unmarked turn-off from the Manilya-Exmouth Road. This area doesn’t have any facilities so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient with water, food, fuel, equipment, and an air-compressor.
The property has been managed by the Lefroy family since 1934, and they are rightfully protective of their piece of paradise, so ensure you are respectful at all times.
Do your bit and keeps things tidy and clean and respect the property and the owners – don’t take photos of the homestead and surrounds without asking permission.
The 10 best-selling dual-range 4x4s of 2014 are the same as the top 10 from 2013, but there have been some significant changes in their relative popularity.
Which 4X4 reigned supreme in 2015? Find out here!
The biggest winners are the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Ford Ranger, while the Nissan Navara and the Mazda BT-50 have slipped down the rankings. Here, from one to 10, are the dual-range 4x4s that found new homes in 2014.
1. TOYOTA HILUX (27,319 sales)
It’s a testament to the HiLux’s reputation, and Toyota’s clever marketing and extensive dealer network, that a ute that dates from 2005 is still Australia’s most popular 4×4.
2. FORD RANGER (20,674)
The fourth best-selling 4×4 in 2013 is now second. You can put that down to a widening of the Ranger line-up and the market’s growing appreciation of what is an excellent all-round vehicle.
3. MITSUBISHI TRITON (19,990)
The now ageing Triton held its number three ranking from 2013 in 2014 thanks to heavy discounting and a high value-for-money factor. An all-new Triton should arrive in mid-2015.
4. JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE (16,582)
Jeep’s Grand Cherokee is the big improver in 2014 jumping from seventh spot in 2013. For what is a sophisticated and extremely well-equipped 4×4, it’s cheap as chips.
5. TOYOTA PRADO (16,112)
After a year-long neck-and-neck sales battle with the Grand Cherokee, the Prado held onto its number five ranking from 2013.
6. HOLDEN COLORADO (15,161)
Number six in 2013 and again number six in 2014, the Colorado can thank Holden’s extensive dealer network for its success.
7. NISSAN NAVARA (14,793)
Second in 2013, the Navara has slid down the slippery slope of popularity. Perhaps Nissan should have taken Mitsubishi’s lead and offered more aggressive discounting. The all-new model is imminent.
8. ISUZU D-MAX (10,297)
The D-Max jumped one spot in 2014 thanks to extensive marketing and a solid reputation. It shares core DNA, but not powertrains, with the Holden Colorado.
9. TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 200 (9067)
Up one spot from 2013, the LC200 benefits from lack of effective competition from Nissan. It’s still hard to go past as a serious 4×4 wagon.
10. MAZDA BT-50 (8312)
Down two spots from 2013, Mazda must be wondering why the mechanically identical Ranger outsells the BT-50 better than two to one.
Which 4X4 reigned supreme in 2015? Find out here!
Want to compare to the 2013 Top 4X4 list? Check it out here!
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Jeep’s flagship Grand Wagoneer is firming as a likely entrant for Jeep in Australia as part of a push to make the SUV-only brand a top 10 seller.
It’s understood the flagship seven-seater could crack $100,000 as the pinnacle of the Jeep lineup to take on Land Cruiser. With the arrival of an all-new Grand Cherokee in 2017 there is expected to be the option of a seven-seat model, helping Jeep compete against the likes of the Toyota Prado and ute based seven-seaters, including the Isuzu MU-X, Holden Colorado 7, Mitsubishi Challenger and the upcoming Ford Everest.
Jeep is also working on a top secret program to build a longer wheelbase, seven-seat version of the KL Cherokee, giving the brand a broader spread and making it more appealing to families.
The American 4×4 maker is also close to deciding on a Wrangler ute as part of the next generation model due in 2017. Speaking at the Detroit Motor Show, Jeep president and CEO Mike Manley said the growth in Jeep market share locally (the brand grew 37 per cent in 2014 and was the 12th best selling brand) was raising its voice in global product planning meetings.
“We have performed well in the Australian market,” Manley said. “That’s helped all right-hand drive markets… that has a big impact on any future investment plan.”
Manley hinted it could be enough to tip a multi-million dollar investment to ensure the Grand Wagoneer is engineered for right-hand drive markets such as Australia, South Africa and the UK.
“We’re at the stage where we have to make the final decision in terms of right- and left-hand drive,” he said, adding that the Wagoneer is crucial for the overall image of the Jeep brand. “The vehicle at the top of the range, in the same way as Wrangler is an icon… is very important in terms of how it establishes your brand.”
One of the big advantages of the Grand Wagoneer is its size (it’s predominantly made for the US market), something that could see it tread on the toes of the Toyota Land Cruiser 200-Series, a car that is almost unrivalled in its segment.
But Manley suggests there will be other options for seven-seaters moving forward.
“Certainly it’s an option for us to look at a three-row vehicle outside Grand Wagoneer,” he said. “There’s no reason why it wouldn’t be available for Australia.”
But it’s the much talked about Wrangler ute that is being keenly watched by many across the globe.
If it were to arrive when the new Wrangler is produced in 2017 it would finally give Jeep an entrant in the 4×4 ute segment that accounts for almost one in eight new vehicles sales.
“We’re well into the program for Wrangler renewal. That’s a longer cycle program because of what the vehicle is,” Manley said.
4X4 Australia understands the next generation Wrangler will be lighter thanks to the adoption of more advanced materials, something that could push the price up.
“As part of that… the decision will or will not be made in terms of do we have a pick-up or don’t we have a pick-up. From my perspective it fits into the portfolio perfectly.” He referenced Dodge as one hurdle, given the strength of Ram in the US market, but he hinted that wouldn’t be a show stopper for a Wrangler ute.
“I don’t have any pick-ups that I can sell in your market. The export markets we have for Ram are limited… if I did a Wrangler pick-up then every international market would take it – Australia, South Africa [etc].” Manley said Jeep will continue to deliver extreme off-road vehicles, with the Wrangler at the top of the ability.
Whereas many rue the arrival of electronics and technology as reducing off-road ability or introducing more opportunities for problems, Manley said it is reducing compromises and increasing ability.
“[We’ve got] the nine-speed transmission which helps crawl ratio [and] we’ve got disconnecting rear axles which help fuel economy. We continue to make advancements in the four-wheel drive systems, whether it’s using Select Terrain or, you know, some drivers like to do it themselves.
“We’ve used technology effectively in terms of hill ascent and hill descent.
“You have to put more technology into vehicles… but that doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t still produce a vehicle that people can work on or change.”
He says Wrangler will continue to be the raw, retro-styled extreme off-roader it has always been.
“One of the big reasons Wrangler is successful is that to some people it’s a [blank] canvas,” Manley said. “They start with Wrangler, lift it, put big wheels and tyres on…
“If you use technology smartly that fits the DNA of the brand and the vehicle I don’t think you necessarily have to compromise [with off-road ability].”
Toyota has now all but confirmed the new Fortuner will arrive in Australia this year to bolster the company’s four-wheel drive ranks.
The brand that owns 16 per cent of the SUV market and 26 per cent of the 4×4 ute market isn’t content with its five-strong 4WD range (as well as a further two light duty SUVs) and it’s understood it has ticked the boxes to sign off on the crucial new model.
Based on the soon-to-arrive new HiLux, the Fortuner would slot between the FJ Cruiser and Prado to provide a more affordable seven-seater to compete with other ute-based off-roaders including the Holden Colorado 7, Mitsubishi Challenger and Isuzu MU-X.
Tony Cramb, Toyota Australia’s executive director of sales and marketing, told 4X4 Australia there was space for another serious off-roader – and that Toyota would not be softening its stance on 4x4s.
Rugged off-roaders are core to the brand and Toyota would not walk away from what is a solid and lucrative part of the car market.
Cramb also told 4X4 the company was actively discussing pushing forward the development and launch of an all-new Land Cruiser 70 Series, with the view to achieving a five-star NCAP safety rating. A five-star rating is now a compulsory prerequisite for some mining companies and these companies previously made up a significant chunk of sales.
It is understood a new generation 70 Series will arrive in 2017 at the earliest and will likely retain much of the rugged hardware underneath but with a revised body and better crash structure to meet stricter regulations.
Cramb said it’s all part of a longer term Toyota strategy to improve its vehicles and better develop them for the Australian market.
For more information, purchase your copy of the March 2015 issue of 4X4 Australia.
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Price and specifications
Price: $84,900
Engine: 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel, 190kW at 4000-4250rpm, 580Nm at 1750-2500rpm
Transmission and 4WD system: 7-speed auto, high range on-demand
Braked tow capacity: 2400kg
Spare tyre: Inflatable space saver
Fuel tank: 65 litres
Fuel use (claimed): 6.1L/100km
Fuel use on test: 9.1L/100km
Approach/departure angles: 24.8 degrees, 23.5 degrees
Ground clearance: 198mm (can be raised 40mm with optional air suspension system)
WHAT’S THE DEAL?
With prices starting at $84,900 (plus on-road and dealer costs) the Macan is the only Porsche for less than $100,000. Little wonder it’s proving popular and currently has a waiting list for owners.
It sits below the Cayenne in the now two-pronged Porsche SUV lineup, with a smaller body and less space inside.
That price is for the diesel tested here, which gets dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, auto tailgate, rain-sensing wipers, electric driver’s seat, partial leather seats, satellite-navigation, reversing sensors front and rear and a reversing camera. The standard tyres are 19 inches in diameter, although you can opt for 20s or 21s.
There’s also plenty of top end features, such as active headlights that peer around corners, distinctive LED daytime running lights and sleek LED tail lights.
There’s also a petrol-fed Macan S ($86,700) which gets the same level of kit as the diesel.
The flagship Turbo S is a $122,400 proposition but gets 20-inch wheels and more equipment, including a decent Bose sound system, with a better Burmester one available as an option.
PRACTICALITY
At 4681mm long (4699mm for the Turbo, with its longer, more aggressive bumpers) the Macan is relatively long but its cabin isn’t huge thanks to the heavily tapered rear windscreen.
So space isn’t great, at least for those sitting in the rear. It might suit smaller families but is unlikely to keep adults content on longer journeys.
Up front there are no qualms, and the levels of comfort are excellent, from the electrically adjustable steering column to the snug but supportive seats. The array of easily accessible buttons and associated colour touchscreen make it easy to operate.
Boot space is also generous, with a long, wide compartment complete with split-folding seats and a good luggage cover.
ON THE ROAD
If cornering ability is high on your agenda look no further than the Macan. It’s a seriously impressive device through corners, hunkering down and hanging on tenaciously.
It’s helped in part by its huge, sticky tyres. Ours came with optional 20-inch units shod in Michelin rubber.
While many modern SUVs send most of their drive to the front wheels and apportion it rearward as required the Porsche Macan does it the other way around, all in the name of boosting that driving experience. Most of the drive is sent to the rear, with the front wheels brought into play as required, but most of the time there’s less than half the drive going to the front.
The ride, too, isn’t bad considering the capability. However if you selected the firmest of the three damper settings it’s too stiff for B-grade country roads.
The diesel engine is grunty enough without being particularly exciting. There’s 190kW of power and a solid 580Nm of torque, the latter available from just 1750rpm.
Teamed with a slick seven-speed automatic it makes for a decent combination and one that shifts quickly and decisively; choose the Sport or Sport Plus modes and the transmission will hold lower gears and downshift sooner.
But it’s not as fiery as some may expect from a Porsche. While petrol-powered Macans have a bespoke Porsche V6, the V6 diesel engine is a Volkswagen/Audi unit (in those more mainstream cars it produces the same torque and just 10kW less – 180kW/580Nm).
Acceleration to 100km/h is claimed at 6.3 seconds, but you can option a Sport Chrono pack that brings a launch control system and lowers that time to 6.1 seconds.
Fuel use is claimed at 6.1 litres per 100km but in regular driving expect to use closer to 9L/100km.
OFF-ROAD
On paper the Macan has plenty going for it. The approach and departure angles are respectable, which helps ensure those sleek bumpers are less prone to damage. And the circa 200mm ground clearance is also reasonable.
It you choose the optional air suspension system (the standard independent setup uses traditional coil springs) you can raise the body by another 40mm.
Peer underneath, though, and the underbody protection is minimal. There’s a smooth plastic shield covering the sump and gearbox, but it’s flimsy and unlikely to protect against even a moderate strike; it’s more about high speed aerodynamics than protection of mechanical vitals.
There are also other limitations, especially with the tyres. Like many sports cars the Macan runs a staggered tyre setup, whereby the rear tyres are wider than the fronts. In the case of our car with its 20-inch tyres the fronts were 265mm wide and the rears 295mm across.
They are also very low profile, with the fronts 265/45 and the rears 295/40.
So apart from being prone to damage, you can’t carry a spare that will suit both ends. Indeed the spare tyre is an inflatable space saver that will be close to useless out of town.
The Macan’s wading depth is also limited to 300mm.
During out off-road testing the Macan was OK without being spectacular. Wheel articulation is below average so it quickly hangs a wheel in the air. Even in its Off-Road mode the traction control takes a while to apply brakes to the wheels that are spinning, meaning plenty of wheelspin before you get going.
But if you keep feeding on power it will eventually work it out and surprise in the sort of terrain it will traverse.
For those looking to tow, the Macan is rated to lug up to 2400kg, but the towball weight is capped at 96kg. It’s a neat setup, though, with an electrically retractable towball, making it easier to park and helping maintain those good looks.
VERDICT
If you want to make a statement and have fun doing it, the Macan is an excellent choice. It’s brilliant to drive, brisk and surprisingly comfortable and easy to live with.
But it’s best suited to light dirt tracks or some snow-covered roads. Unless you’re planning to make some modifications it’s unlikely to get too adventurous on more challenging roads.