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ALL THE LATEST 4X4 NEWS AND EVENTS
LAKE MOONDARRA FISHING CLASSIC (QLD)
Bring your fishing gear for the chance to snare a barra or sleepy cod at the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic, held 17km north of Mount Isa, QLD, from October 27 to 29. Besides the fishing and casting competitions, there will also be a dragon boat regatta, a beach volleyball event and yabby races to keep everyone entertained. The lake is surrounded by shady trees, with a number of picnic/ barbecue areas dotted around it for families. The lake is a goldmine for birdwatchers, with pelicans, cormorants and other native and introduced birds found in this area all the time. See blog.queensland. com for more information.
REDARC 4WD OCTOBERFEST (SA)
The four-day 4WD Octoberfest is a brilliant 4x4 escape, where off-roading clubs converge on the Willangi Bush Escapes campground. The long weekend event (September 29 to October 2) comprises tagalong tours, camp-cooking competitions, a performance by the Strickland Road Band on the Saturday, Sunday night kids’ movies, a night navigation event, and a 4WDSA Big Brekky aimed at raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.vehicle numbers are limited (120) and the cost is $155 per vehicle (includes camping and track fees). It’s a great event for a great cause. For more info, visit www. mountloftyrangers.com.au
NATIONAL 4X4 OUTDOORS SHOW, FISHING AND BOATING EXPO (VIC)
The Melbourne Showgrounds will be transformed into a 4x4 touring, camping, boating and fishing mecca from August 17 to 19. More than 200 exhibitors will showcase their latest and greatest gear, with crowds expected to exceed 35,000. Along with new 4x4 vehicles, plenty of cool aftermarket accessories, and oodles of camper trailers and boats, the regular highlights will be there. The VW Amarok Proving Ground, the CFX Outback Stage and the Catch and Cook stage are just some of the informative sessions visitors can attend while at the show. See 4x4show.com.au/ melbourne for all info.
PADDLE THE HIGH COUNTRY (VIC)
With spring comes snowmelt, which also means the Vic High Country’s many waterways are flowing, making it an ideal destination for keen paddlers. This region has a number of rivers suited to various skill levels, from beginners/ families through to white-water warriors. With its gentle flow and many put-in points, the Ovens River is an ideal family destination. The paddle from Bright to Porepunkah is a great option (you can hire kayaks from local guiding companies, who will also organise pickups). Another great still-water adventure is exploring Mt Buffalo Park’s Lake Catani in a canoe.visit www. victoriashighcountry.com.au
CARAVAN CAMPING OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE EXPO (NSW)
Head to Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park from September 20 to 23, and check out (or buy) the latest caravans, camper-trailers, camping equipment, and boating and fishing gear. There’ll be some new 4x4s to gawk at too, along with accessories. For tips and advice, the expo has plenty of experts on-site, daily demonstrations and free kids’ entertainment. There’s also the Discover Zone, where you can plan your next holiday park stay. See caravanexpo.com for more information.