G’day from CampingWA
Now with Summer out of the way, the tracks are turning muddy, but the grass is getting greener! Winter has almost set in with these chilly nights. What better time than now to drag out the ugg boots to keep our feet nice and warm. Camping in winter is whole different experience, for starters we can fire up those concrete pits with the moveable hotplate, that you find at camping grounds. Perfect way to unwind by a cozy fire, toasting the marshmallows and a glass of your favourite drink. Not forgetting to abide by all fire laws in that area. I know at this time of the year at Dwellingup, the camping ground turns from dusty dirt to a beautiful lush green. Great for finding the right spot to pitch your tent or set up the camper. Of course with the fast flowing river nearby, makes it just one of the perfect spots to camp.
By now most people feel the need to make tracks and head up North to escape our wintery days and find that warm, shining sun. Geraldton, Kalbarri, Shark Bay are few places that spring to mind for me! It is well worth the time and effort to plan a trip, up pass the 26th Parallel in the NorthWest. Speaking of trips a few CampingWA members have a couple of trips happening soon. One of which is to Geraldton, a new venture is taking shape that allows camping, buggie rides, tours etc.. Thanks to a new member 'Stets' who has already experienced it, he is now in the planning for a trip for CWA members to come along and try out camping 'outback style'. Come and take a look soon at the Bush Camping Trips section.
If you miss that one, stay tuned for an upcoming trip 'in the planning stages' for the September long weekend to the Goldfields Country!
WHATS HAPPENING:
**Kingspark Wildflower Festival
1 September 2008 to 1 October 2008
The 2008 Kings Park Festival will be held over the month of September, and include spectacular displays of Western Australian wildflowers in bloom in the Botanic Garden and across the Park. There will also be gardening and art workshops, free family fun days, jazz in the Botanic Garden.
The central focus for 2008 Kings Park Festival is conservation of our unique environment, and a call to action around climate change. Kings Park will profile the Millennium Seedbank Project, a joint effort between the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority of Western Australia and the Royal Botanic Garden, Kew in the United Kingdom.
**Convoy For SIDS & KIDS WA
October 12th 2008 - For all details look here: www.convoyforkids.net
**Volunteers Needed!! - GasDash - 30th Oct to 2nd Nov 2008
CampingWA member 'Doc Evil', as part of the Western Patrol Club has been asked to assist with this years event. Volunteers are being called upon to help out. Roles include Checkpoint Marshalls, Recoveries & Sweeps. There will be a substantial amount of 4wdriving involved. The Event is run on a Station just outside Gascoyne Junction. So if you interested contact 'Doc Evil' via PM. For more details regarding the event check out www.gasdash.com
COOL TIPS FOR WINTER DRIVING:
As recommended from RACWA
To reduce your chance of getting caught out with car troubles during winter, use this basic winter checklist to help keep you mobile during the colder months.
Battery: Check connections are clean and tight and the fluid levels are correct (for non-sealed batteries only). Also if the battery is more than 3 years old ask your mechanic for a battery test.
Lights: Check the operation of all your lights making sure lenses are clean and not cracked or broken.
Tyres: Make sure tyres have adequate tread depth (legal minimum is 1.5mm) and correct pressures are set with the tyres cold. Look for uneven wear, excessive wear and sidewall damage. Replace any suspect tyres. If there is less than 2mm tread depth they should be replaced.
Wiper Blades: Check wiper blade rubbers are clearing water effectively. A new set of wiper rubbers will improve your visibility and enhance safety. The windscreen washer bottle should be full and the washer jets working correctly.
Fan Belt: With the engine off, check fan/drive belts for cracks or deterioration and correct tension. Have any suspect belts changed.
Engine and Electrical: Have the engine tuned and the electrical system, including alternator charging rate, checked before winter sets in. An engine and electrical system in good condition reduces the chance of electrical/mechanical failures.
Windows: Ensure that the front and rear screen demisters are working and all windows are kept clean for maximum visibility.
Stay warm and Happy Camping!