Driver Awareness Program
The Mackay & District 4WD club are devoted to providing the best driver training possible. All new members must complete the Clubs Driver Awareness Training Programme prior to attending any of the club activities. This course includes a theory component and a practical session at the Clubs property located in the Finch Hatton area of the Pioneer Valley.
Our
experienced driver trainers will try to cover all possible driving conditions during the training which can include stall
starts, driving in mud, sand, on slopes, through water and recovery techniques. For existing members, training days are
organised at different times throughout the year. All club members are encouraged to participate as often as they can to
constantly hone their skills and improve their knowledge.
These training days prove invaluable to club members of all skill levels due to the thorough instruction associated with these days. New members should attend a Club Training Day before attempting a trip graded 3 or above. Check the trip grading on each trip as a change in conditions on some trips may challenge inexperienced drivers. You should always advise the trip leader of your level of driving experience and vehicle equipment when signing up for a trip so they may accommodate.
Following are the rules of conduct that we should all observe when using our vehicles in the bush. We should all take them to heart as image is a difficult thing to change.
- Obey the laws and regulations for Recreational Vehicles that apply to public lands.
- Respect the cultural, heritage and environmental values of public/private land, by obeying restrictions that may apply.
- Respect our flora and fauna. Stop and look, but never disturb.
- Keep to formed vehicle tracks.
- Keep the environment clean. Carry your own, and any other, rubbish, out.
- Keep your vehicle mechanically sound and clean to reduce the environmental impact.
- Adopt minimal impact camping and driving practices.
- Seek permission before driving on private land. Do not disturb livestock or watering points, leave gates as found.
- Take adequate water, food, fuel, basic spares and a first aid kit on trips. In remote areas travel with another vehicle and have Royal Flying Doctor Service, or equivalent, in radio contact.
- Enjoy your recreation and respect the rights of others.
- Plan ahead and lodge trip details with a responsible person.
- Support four wheel driving as a responsible and legitimate family recreational activity. Consider joining an affiliated four wheel drive Club.