Knowledge Hub

1. Vehicle Requirements

Vehicles must have a UHF radio tuned to Channel 14 (or as specified by trip leader) and carry the following minimum recovery equipment:

• Suitable recovery points front and rear
• Snatch strap and rated bow shackle
• Shovel or spade · Axe or bowsaw
• First Aid Kit and personal medical information
• Any additional equipment as specified by the trip leader

Also highly recommended: spare parts, tool kit, fire extinguisher, air compressor, tyre pressure gauge, jacking plate, vehicle manual.

2. Convoy Procedures

• Start — Trip Leader arranges convoy order and nominates a Tail-End-Charlie (TEC).
• Communications — Club uses UHF Channel 14 unless leader specifies otherwise. If no radio contact, flash headlights to signal convoy to stop.
• Travelling — Keep the vehicle behind you in view at all times. At any corner or obstacle, wait for the following vehicle, indicate direction, then proceed when acknowledged.
• Drive at a comfortable and safe speed. Keep 4–6 vehicle lengths between vehicles.
• On steep inclines — one vehicle at a time. Call the next vehicle through when you are clear.
• All gates to be left as found. Last vehicle is responsible for gate status.
• Vehicles must not leave the convoy without Trip Leader approval.
• Remember — you are responsible for the vehicle behind!

3. UHF Radio

UHF radio is essential on all club trips. All vehicles must have a UHF radio (vehicle-mounted or handheld) tuned to the channel specified by the leader. The club has spare UHF handheld radios available to loan to new participants — contact the club before your first trip.

4. General Advice

• "Quick Tips" — Dirt Roads/Tracks, Sand, Rocks, Mud & Snow (PDF)
• "Water Crossings" (PDF)
• "Beach Driving" (PDF)
• "Mud Driving" (PDF)
• "Rock Driving" (PDF)
• "Automatics" — Driving through the brakes technique (PDF)
• "Snatch Straps & Recovery" (PDF)
• "Winches" — Electric and Hand Maintenance (PDF)
• "Tyre Tips" (PDF)
• Repairing Flat Tyres in the Bush — "Click here" to view articles and videos
• "Snow Chains" (PDF)
• "1st Aid Kits" (PDF)
• "Safety Flags" (PDF)
• "Emergency Numbers" (PDF)

5. Trip Rating System

6. 4WDriver's Code of Ethics

• Obey all laws and regulations for recreational vehicles on public lands.
• Respect cultural, heritage and environmental values — obey all restrictions.
• Respect flora and fauna — stop and look, never disturb.
• Keep to formed vehicle tracks.
• Keep the environment clean — carry all rubbish out.
• Keep your vehicle mechanically sound and clean to reduce environmental impact.
• Adopt minimal impact camping and driving practices.
• Seek permission before driving on private land. Leave gates as found.
• Carry adequate water, food, fuel, basic spares and a first aid kit. In remote areas travel with another vehicle and carry appropriate communications.
• Plan ahead and lodge trip details with a responsible person.