Join 4WD TRIP - Labour Day Long weekend Fri.. (BachoCrusier)

Labour Day Long weekend Friday night 9th March to MONDAY 12th March 2018 MEDIUM / HARD

Macalister River, Wonnagatta & Talbotville area, VIC

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Hi All,

For member wishing to join this trip please read the updated discussion.

Latest update is all the original tracks we planned to take will still be closed. This could mean more traffic on the the current Black soil gully entry point tracks. No issue other than the Barley river bridge camp site may be occupied or full so we need a backup plan. On your way through Licola have a look around at what overnight camp spots are available or what the caravan park has available (Shuts at 6PM) just in case. www.licolacaravanpark.com.au/. If the camp site is full we only have a couple of choices as i see it, Head back to the Licola store / caravan park area and grab a spot if available or head up the Tamboritha road and stay at ANY of the camp sites from 1 to 13. One to closer to Licola so would be better as less driving back and fourth. Sat morning we meet at the Barley River bridge at 9AM and head off. This means we may not camp together on the first night but may be a realistic outcome and saves anyone getting concerned about not meeting up on Friday night. Mobile reception is good at Licola but fads after that. I hope this is not too confusing, please feel free to call me if you need to.
Looking forward to meeting you all Friday night / Saturday morning. Ron

Sunday morning we will head down Zeka Spur to Wonnangatta. There's a 100 year centenary celebration on that weekend so we will most likely head out of Wonnangatta to find an isolated camp area for the night. Have to see what the traffic is like and what time we get there.

On Sunday we will head over to Talbotville and depending on traffic etc go via Herrns Spur track for an overnight stay. Should get there early so anyone who wants could head over to Billy Goats Bluff track or other tracks in the area depending on time and traffic.

Monday morning leave for home as it's a reasonable drive back to Melbourne. Not too rushed if the plan works out and tracks are currently OK while dry.

As usual you should have good off road tyre's, full recovery gear, checked your gear before leaving home, some spare parts and tools to suit your 4Wd and some high country experience, very handy if the track get wet . If required we can assist you but you need to let us know if you have any limitations.

Looking forward to meeting you all and having a great weekend together.

Love the freedom of the high country. If you have any questions just ask.

Regards Ron

Requirement

Electric Winch
Recovery Gear

Ron (BachoCrusier)
GOING
Driver + 1 AdultChecked-In (07-Mar-2018 22:52)
LC 105R, (1999 Land Cruiser 105R)
- 33" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Front & Rear Locker
- Winch

Rob (Bessiethebeast)
GOING
Driver + 1 ChildrenChecked-In (07-Mar-2018 22:34)
80 Series 4.5 (1993 80 Series)
- 33" Tyres, 3" Lifted
- Rear Diff Lock

Joyce (Joyce)
GOING
Driver + 1 Adult + 1 ChildrenChecked-In (07-Mar-2018 22:58)
Nissan Patrol GU (2010 Patrol GU)
- 33" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Winch

Richard (rtexplora)

I am Interested / In Waiting List
105 Series (2000 Landcruiser)
- 33" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Front & Rear Locker
- Winch

Chris (L0wey)

I am Interested / In Waiting List
07PAJVRX (2007 Pajero VRX)
- 31" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Winch

Marc Lebrun (Marc120Prado)

I am Interested / In Waiting List
2017 Colorado Spacey (2017 Colorado)
- 33" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Front & Rear Locker
- Winch

Daniel (wj_dan)

I am Interested / In Waiting List
grand cherokee (2013 wk)
- 32" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Rear Diff Lock
- Winch

Nick (technickster)

I am Interested / In Waiting List
GQ Patrol (1988 Patrol)
- 33" Tyres, 2" Lifted
- Rear Diff Lock
- Winch

Rosco (lenoir)
Wonnangatta is hosting the centenary of the Wonnangatta Station Murders over the long weekend, is expected to be pretty full up so might be a challenge finding room if you're arriving later in the weekend. Perhaps have a backup plan for that night?

Have a safe trip!

14 Feb 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Rosco (lenoir) wrote: Wonnangatta is hosting the centenary of the Wonnangatta Station Murders over the long weekend, is expected to be pretty full up so might be a challenge finding room if you're arriving later in the weekend. Perhaps have a backup plan for that night?

Have a safe trip!

Hi Rosco, thanks for the heads up.
Appreciate your input

Regards
Ron

14 Feb 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Trip details

15 Feb 2018

Allan (allanmac)

In regard to fuel, the Licola store usually closes about 7pm. The other alternative is Heyfield as the servo (Mobil) at the roundabout as you head out of town is open to about 10pm.

16 Feb 2018

Antony (Peloza79)

Allan (allanmac) wrote: In regard to fuel, the Licola store usually closes about 7pm. The other alternative is Heyfield as the servo (Mobil) at the roundabout as you head out of town is open to about 10pm.

Licola general store shuts at 5pm now

16 Feb 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

Hi Ron,
What sort of setup would you recommend? Can see other cars are patrols and LC locked and lifted mostly. I am running 32s, front lock, rear LSD 2 inch lift. I know some of the butcher tracks are a bit rough. I did a few decent tracks around that area, Mt Margeret, did Zeka spur couple years ago going up after a night of rain camping at wonangatta etc..

Let me know. ATM looking for a Patrol / 80 series so I might have a new rig by this trip.. but might not.

16 Feb 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Thurstain (Tcm9669) wrote: Hi Ron,
What sort of setup would you recommend? Can see other cars are patrols and LC locked and lifted mostly. I am running 32s, front lock, rear LSD 2 inch lift. I know some of the butcher tracks are a bit rough. I did a few decent tracks around that area, Mt Margeret, did Zeka spur couple years ago going up after a night of rain camping at wonangatta etc..

Let me know. ATM looking for a Patrol / 80 series so I might have a new rig by this trip.. but might not.

Hi Thurstain, your 4WD should be fine for the trip, may just need a bit more right foot in some area's but it really depends on the weather and track conditions on the day. As far as replacing your 4WD i'm a Toyota man and the 80 series is one of the best off road trucks around but like the Nissan is getting older. This should be a good discussion around the fire so may leave it here for now. Take your time and fine the right 4WD that suits YOUR needs and is not worn out.
Thanks

16 Feb 2018

Alex (TEQ-80)

Thurstain........ You KNOW you want an 80 series :-)

19 Feb 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

Alex (TEQ-80) wrote: Thurstain........ You KNOW you want an 80 series :-)

What I really want is a chopped 80 series (Dual Cab with a tray) - But bank says no.. There is a chopped GQ Patrol, $20k - and my bank account is shivering at the thought.

19 Feb 2018

Alex (TEQ-80)

I've bought an old banger (FJ73 Landcruiser auto) which will hit the tracks later this year on historic rego with the plan to punt it on the harder tracks where a scratch or dent doesn't matter. Just slowly getting it up to RWC at the moment.
The 80 will still do all the touring stuff but it's a beater - the '73 for me on the tough stuff. Just need a winch and locker, who cares about anything else :-)

19 Feb 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

Alex (TEQ-80) wrote: I've bought an old banger (FJ73 Landcruiser auto) which will hit the tracks later this year on historic rego with the plan to punt it on the harder tracks where a scratch or dent doesn't matter. Just slowly getting it up to RWC at the moment.
The 80 will still do all the touring stuff but it's a beater - the '73 for me on the tough stuff. Just need a winch and locker, who cares about anything else :-)

I would not mind some old banger like that but if I plan to take the missus and the dogs for a camping trip - I'll need the space.. and if I get something which I can get some functionality out of, I can let go of the Navara.. instead of having 3 cars.

So far the best value for money I found is a GQ with locker, lift and auto (worked up with lock and stuff) for $7k all it needs is a winch compatible bullbar and winch... but it's a tb42 - 20 litres / 100k.... makes me shiver. 80's are so much more expensive, a near stock 80 petrol with 300k kms (I think 1fz?) still goes for $10k, no locker, no nothing

19 Feb 2018

Marc (GONM4D)
You know you wanna Patrol:)

19 Feb 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

Marc (GONM4D) wrote: You know you wanna Patrol:)

Only if I could afford a decent well setup td42 LOL - most in my price range are rd28 (no power), tb42, tb45 (petrol) or rusted old td42 NA... oh and some early models zd30s

So many beautiful rigs, such little money.

19 Feb 2018

Stephan (Dmop85)
WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Our dog has just gone through some surgery and needs 8 weeks recovery. So I'm out :(

27 Feb 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Stephan (Dmop85) wrote: WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Our dog has just gone through some surgery and needs 8 weeks recovery. So I'm out :(

Hi Stephan, sorry to hear that. Hope you dog gets better real soon.
Thanks for letting us know.
Regards
Ron

27 Feb 2018

Joyce (Joyce)
Hi Ron. So sorry we have to miss out on this trip as our tyres are in a bad condition at the moment. Hope is not too late to notify.

28 Feb 2018

Joyce (Joyce)
WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason:

28 Feb 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Joyce (Joyce) wrote: Hi Ron. So sorry we have to miss out on this trip as our tyres are in a bad condition at the moment. Hope is not too late to notify.

Not too late thanks Joyce

01 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Garry (Gazza) wrote: Hi Ron, just letting you know there is a bush fire near dingo hill and butcher country and those tracks are closed for now , they usual keep them closed after the fire, until they go through and clear dangerous burnt out trees. Worth calling them next week to check if tracks are open or not. Cheers Garry

Hi Garry, i did see that but thanks for letting me know.
Will come up with plan B in case which i hope to work on tonight.
Thanks

01 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi All, chances of the Dingo Hill and Butcher track being open in time is very slim. Even if the fire is out they need to review the tracks and make them safe before opening.
I will monitor and make a decision as we get closer but so your not left out in the cold so to speak i have come up with option B.
On Friday night instead of camp # 8 up Tamboritha Road we stay at the Barkly River camping area Campsite some 15 km from Licola. From Licola, take Target Creek Rd, which winds around to the north-west of town, and follow it into Glencairn Rd. The camping area is situated at the bridge where this road crosses over the Barkly River. Note: It only holds about 6 cars but it appears to have camps on both side of the bridge. Saturday morning continue up the road to Black soil track onto the Macalister river track, blue plans spur, gimme track, McDonald track, Nobs track, Cain creek rd onto King Billy rd and camp at the top of Butcher country track were we had planned to stay. Rest of the trip as per plan. This should make the trip safe for everyone and of course we will change the plan again if necessary. I don't want to cancel the trip, would rather go base camping (anywhere) and do day trips if it comes to that. I hope you all agree as we make the best of the situation. Open to other suggestions guys. Still loving it. Regards Ron.

01 Mar 2018

Antony (Peloza79)

WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Sorry but unfortunately my car needs some tlc and won’t be ready by next weekend

02 Mar 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

Hi Ron,
That sounds like a good plan B. Do you happen to have coordinates of the new camp ground? I will most likely be coming VERY late on Friday and want to make sure I come at the right spot.

So far no new trucks, the Navara is coming along by the looks of it. I installed a few new things (major maintenance.. new cv's, ball joints, repacked bearings, transfer case, drive shaft, cross member all new oils and filters etc..etc..) hopefully get some time to test everything is OK this weekend before this big trip... so hopefully I don't break anything up there! Can't wait to hit the tracks again.

02 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi All,

Coordinates for the Barley River bridge are 37deg 33min 32.3sec south, 146deg 34min 11.3s east. UTM 55H 46 2005E 5843 028N.

Latest update is all the original tracks we planned to take will still be closed. This could mean more traffic on the the current Black soil gully entry point tracks. No issue other than the Barley river bridge camp site may be occupied or full so we need a backup plan. On your way through Licola have a look around at what overnight camp spots are available or what the caravan park has available (Shuts at 6PM) just in case. www.licolacaravanpark.com.au/. If the camp site is full we only have a couple of choices as i see it, Head back to the Licola store / caravan park area and grab a spot if available or head up the Tamboritha road and stay at ANY of the camp sites from 1 to 13. One to closer to Licola so would be better as less driving back and fourth. Sat morning we meet at the Barley River bridge at 9AM and head off. This means we may not camp together on the first night but may be a realistic outcome and saves anyone getting concerned about not meeting up on Friday night. Mobile reception is good at Licola but fads after that. I hope this is not too confusing, please feel free to call me if you need to.
Looking forward to meeting you all Friday night / Saturday morning. Ron

04 Mar 2018

Thurstain (Tcm9669)

WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Sorry Navara still doing some noises after fixing it. Don't want to be so remote doing hard tracks while Navara isn't 100%. Sorry guys, hopefully someone takes my spot. I was looking forward to it, but better be safe.

04 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi Antony and Thurstain, sorry to hear your both out but most likely a good decision if your 4WD's are not up to the tasks.
Hope you get the repairs nutted out so you can get back on the track.
Have a great long weekend

05 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Trip summary page information

06 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Trip information on the summary page

06 Mar 2018

Rob (Bessiethebeast)
Hi Ron
Just confirming our attendance, see you at the bridge on Sat morning at 9am - what channel on the CB?

06 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi Rob, thanks great. Looking forward to meeting you. Channel 17

06 Mar 2018

Steve (blue rangie 304)

i would have joined trip but already commited with some other 4wd group might see you guys out there sat / sun

06 Mar 2018

Joyce (Joyce)
Hi Ron, i manage to change my tyres and would like to join this trip with my partner Alex and our 5yo. We can only meet you on saturday at 9am at barkly river bridge. May be a bit late 9 to 9.30am as we have to travel 4 hours from home. Will that be good? If is a bit too late let me know. Will of course try our best to reach by 9am. Cheers!

07 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi Joyce would love to have you guys along. Yes we will wait until 9:30 but as you said please try to get there on time as everyone will be waiting. Having said that please drive carefully as we don’t want you having an accident for the sake of 30 mins. See you Saturday morning

07 Mar 2018

Joyce (Joyce)
Thanks Ron. Will do. Looking forward to this trip and will definately try my very best to be there by 9am.

07 Mar 2018

Marc (GONM4D)
WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Sorry guys family commitments

09 Mar 2018

George (Dirty old lux)

WITHDRAWN from Trip - Reason: Sorry guys my back still not right, I'm having trouble getting up and down and into vehicle

09 Mar 2018

Rob (Bessiethebeast)
Hi Ron and Veronica

I would like to thank you the both of you for a lovely weekend. I hope it was as enjoyable for you as it was for Brandon and I. Equally it was joy to meet Alex, Joyce and Issac. I was concerned you did not get to do and see everything you had planned and it was not to frustrating at low fuel, flat tyre, wheel issues and later than expected morning starts - the frustrations of traveling with stangers. The two of you were so gracious and generous with your time and sharing your weekend with the Alex and joyce team and the terrible twosome.

Kind regards

Rob and Brandon

12 Mar 2018

Ron (BachoCrusier)
Hi Rob and Brandon, thank you for your kind comments. We did get to do what we set out and that was a weekend in the high country with new friends.
Enjoyed every moment and looking forward to catching up with you two sometime in the future. Hopefully Brandon will keep you moving so we meet a "new you" each trip.

Best Regards
Ron & Veronica

13 Mar 2018

Joyce (Joyce)
Such a nice amd pleasent trip. Thank you so much for teaching us newbies so much about 4w driving Ron. Thanks Veronica for showing us your awesome 5 star 4wd set up which someday i hope to set up the same way.Thanks Rob and Brandon for your great company and it was so much fun having you both in the trip. Keep in touch.

13 Mar 2018

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Labour Day Long weekend Friday night 9th March to MONDAY 12th March 2018 MEDIUM / HARD

Requirement

Ron (BachoCrusier)

Rob (Bessiethebeast)

Joyce (Joyce)

Richard (rtexplora)

Chris (L0wey)

Marc Lebrun (Marc120Prado)

Daniel (wj_dan)

Nick (technickster)

Organiser Ron (BachoCrusier)

Organiser

Ron (BachoCrusier)