Issue 631 | July - September 2025
President’s Track Notes
President's Report July - September 2025
This is my first President’s report written during or after some great club trips. I started writing in the drizzly town of Ebor after emerging back into the land of mobile signal after a brilliant weekend following the Styx and Georges Rivers in NSW. What a great weekend - thanks Matt for organising. My final additions were made after getting home from the Progressive Dinner at Yarraman Caravan Park. Thanks to Kel for organising and to Gareth for leading a drive of the Old Coach Road on Saturday morning.
Last time I did the Old Coach Road it was quite a different drive, more deep wash-outs and rock hopping than I remember. Many of us spent some time on one wheel with gravity helping us out at the right time. Gareth also pointed out a bunch of tracks that look a bit like a public play pen at The Diggings off the Old Coach Road. Something to explore in the future.
I'd like to say a big thank you to Danny Power for the time he has volunteered to the club as President for the last year and in previous years. I appreciate his (mostly) quiet advice and leadership. Thanks also to the outgoing committee members who have volunteered their time for the club. Even bigger thanks to those who are continuing on as committee members and are generously donating their time and expertise to the club.
Matt has been doing a great job arranging sponsorships for 2025/26. Our sponsors so far are TRED 4x4, Hardkorr and Exogear. We also have some generous discounts available including a renewal of a 10% discount at Newman Mechanical for club members. The business directory on Member Jungle will lead you to a bunch of other discounts.
If you have any trip ideas, please suggest them on Member Jungle in the General Chat. If you can contribute to running a trip you will be appreciated greatly. We love trips! Especially to new places. If there is a place you have been to that is now a 4wd or camping treasure of yours, please share.
Our trip calendar for the rest of the year includes:
- 24-26 October trip to Manar Park, Queensland’s biggest 4wd park
- Fundraising BBQ at Darche Open Day, 1 November with proceeds going to “Dig In” this year’s Sargeant at Arms charity. Dig In provides meals and other supports to people experiencing homelessness.
- Weekday Border Ranges Tour 3-7 November.
- Induction weekend and winch demo at The Springs 7-9 November.
- 14-16 November burger run to Nindigully Pub.
- Bumper Xmas Party 5-7 December at Leyburn, we have about 60 registrations at the moment. The present steal is gonna be mammoth!
- 13 December volunteering day in the Dig In kitchen.
Looking forward to seeing you at a club event soon. Until then, stay safe and more importantly, have fun.
Over and out.
Robbie
President, Brisbane 4WD Club Inc
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Recap of the Month's
Here’s a quick recap of the events and trips we’ve enjoyed over the past month's:
Binghi Station Weekend 4 July - no report
The Guzzler 19 July
Kroombit Tops 28 July
Styx River Serenity Escape 7Aug - no report
Suzuki Sweep Ups 16 Aug - no report
Leyburn Sprints 22 Aug
Discover Teewah Beach 05 Sep
TRED NBCF 19 Sep
Trip Reports: July - Sep 2025
Brisbane 4WD Club Powers Through The Guzzler Ultra 19th July
The Brisbane 4WD Club once again proved its mettle and community spirit during this year’s Guzzler Ultra Marathon, held from July 19 to 20. With boots on the ground and wheels on the trails, club members provided critical support across the grueling 100km+ course, ensuring the safety and morale of runners through a long, cold, and unforgettable weekend.
The club’s involvement kicked off bright and early at 6:00 AM Saturday, with members gathering at The Gap Park 'n' Ride before heading into the rugged terrain of Mt Coot-tha and Lake Manchester. Their mission? To staff and manage key checkpoints, including the infamous Hell Hole, Radio 1 and 2, Lightline Bush Camp, and the newly added South Boundary Road checkpoint.
Despite the challenges—including Dazzee’s vehicle breaking down mid-event—the team rallied together, showcasing the resilience and camaraderie the club is known for. The cold night didn’t deter spirits either, as members worked tirelessly through the dark hours to transport injured or exhausted runners safely off the course.
One of the weekend’s highlights was the creatively decorated Hell Hole checkpoint, brought to life by the artistic flair of Steph and Dazzee. Their spooky, humorous setup brought smiles to weary runners and volunteers alike, turning a dreaded part of the course into a memorable experience.
Public Relations Officer for the Club Matt Boyd praised the team’s efforts:
“It was a long 30 hours, but everyone pulled together. From recovery missions to checkpoint support, our members showed what the Brisbane 4WD Club is all about—community, capability, and a good dose of fun.”
Despite the fatigue, the event was filled with laughter, teamwork, and a shared sense of accomplishment. As the sun rose on Sunday and the final runners crossed the finish line, the Brisbane 4WD Club wrapped up their duties around 12:00 PM, tired but proud.
For more on the club’s adventures and upcoming events, visit brisbane4wdclub.org or follow them on social media.
Kind Regards, Matt Boyd - PR
Kroombit Tops National Park 28 July
A very good trip and enjoyed by all. We had 4 cars in total. Myself, John followed by Errol, Mark and Dan with Kim. As planned we met at the Ampol S/station on Gympie Rd, Carseldine. We then proceeded to Gympie, Kilkivan, Gayndah then Monto. Finally to the Mungungo Pub. Unfortunately the pub was closed Mon, Tues and Wed meaning that their camp was closed also. I did a lot of communication with the owner who finally consented to let us in regardless of the pub. Jason, the owner has a wife who is seriously ill so is away a lot of the time, but he has a stand in, Stewart, who knew all about us so all was OK.
Monday evening we sat around a pretend fire (fire bans) and discussed our day trips.
Tuesday.
We returned to Monto as fuel was required. We then had an easy drive up into Cania Gorge. Myself, dosed up with flu, did not do much in the way of walking but the others went off sight seeing and taking pictures. We had lunch at Lake Cania located at the end of the gorge drive. Stopped again in Monto for last minute shopping then back to camp.
Wednesday.
The main object of this drive was to find an old disbanded gold mine named Monal gold fields, of which I had a history book written by a local historian. Not really a lot left now. All the buildings are gone with just 'finger boards' saying what was where. I also wanted to find a road into Kroombit Tops named Clewleys Gap rd. Clewley was one of the families that lived/worked the gold mine. We had driven north from our camp to the mine, and I had the idea that if we continue north we would find a road linking up to Clewleys Gap rd. Drive north we did. We came to a gate with a sign saying 4WD only. The road name after the gate, Gentle Annie rd. Yeh. Gentle Annie be buggered. We all got through the gate then were faced with 45degree side inclines and very deep and wide wash outs. This was a case of each of us guiding others as no room for error. Luckily all safe. We continued our drive until we came to a fingerboard pointing to Ubobo. Not the way I wanted but I knew we were at the correct junction. I could see a faint tunnel through the trees in the opposite direction and decided that was the way. Correct. This was 4WD and low range stuff with water crossings and rock climbing, steep in places and bashing through overgrowth. We kept going until we came to another gate. After this gate the road was clear and easy. I was feeling better and kinda knew that Clewleys Gap rd was somewhere near. Driving some more and there it was, clearly marked. I said to the others, there is our trip for tomorrow. Now we return to camp.
Thursday.
We took the road used to return to camp yesterday and wound up at Clewleys Gap rd, turned into it and proceeded to Kroombit Tops. Again 4WD and low range. Water crossings and rock climbing for about 17klm until we got to the top and into the Tops. I was then onto familiar territory. Part of the history of Kroombit Tops is that in 1945, a Liberator Bomber crashed killing all 8 on board. 6 USAF and 2 RAF Spitfire pilots. This plane wreck was not discovered for 49 years (1994). When found the bodies were still inside and easily identified as wearing uniforms and carrying papers. I led the way on relatively good roads to where we could park the cars and walk to the wreck site. We returned to camp on the same roads used to get onto Kroombit Tops, arriving at camp at about 3.30pm. Pub open. Meals served and a coldie or 2.
Friday.
We split up and returned to Brisbane at individual leisure.
A very good trip.
John McLeod
Leyburn Sprints Volunteer Weekend 22 Aug
We arrived just before 5pm on the Friday afternoon with just enough time to say hi and set up camp before dark. We then headed up to the pub to say hi to Chris and Ruth and everyone else that wasn’t at camp. It was already busy at the pub, and they were expecting some big nights ahead. We were ready for whatever chores and chaos were thrown our way.
As expected, the Friday night didn’t disappoint. There were plenty of tables that needed to be cleared of empty dinner plates, cups and cans of alcohol. Anzac and the kids-Rhys, Cooper and Alyssa spent most of the night, well actually the weekend, restocking the cold room of various alcohols and soft drinks. Marcus seemed drawn to the heat, or the smell of the pizza oven and spent most of the night by the warm oven, mastering his pizza cooking skills. Jen was even selling some of the pub merchandise, while Katrina spent most of the night at the can bar, sitting by the hot box serving meals. Dazee was also by the pizza oven, and anywhere else she was asked to go. We finished up about 9pm, and pretty much went straight to bed, we were exhausted.
Saturday morning, we got up, had breakfast then headed back up to the pub. We weren’t needed until about 11.00 o’clock, so we took the opportunity to have a look at some of the race cars, and we had a wander through the markets. The kids knew one of the drivers, so they were eager to find him and say hello. We eventually headed back to the pub, and everyone got cracking with their jobs. Katrina was making pizzas, Terry and Rod were finding mischief, but they did lots of heavy lifting, stoking the fires, and whatever else was asked of them. I made up some pizza boxes before heading over to the beer garden, where I relived my younger days of hospitality and ended up pouring beers from the kegs, and Alyssa beside me was helping to serve delicious, loaded fries and pulled pork burgers. I quickly remembered why I left hospitality, the smell of beer……
Saturday night we were all on deck, and as expected it was a very busy night. They had a band playing out the back and it was just such a great atmosphere. We were all kept very busy doing whatever chores were asked of us from Chris, Ruth and their staff.
Sunday morning was the inevitable have breakfast and pack up and go home. For some of the lucky ones, Terry, Wendy, Rod, Katrina and Anzac, they stayed on for another night or two.
Thanks Chris and Ruth for a great weekend. I hope we were able to lighten the load and help out where we could. It was an exhausting weekend, but we had lots of fun, and the kids got to see some of the race cars. Hopefully we’ll get to do it all again next year.
Brenda
Discover Teewah Beach – Trip Leader: Matt Boyd
Attendees: Matt, Helen, Mark, Christy and family, Shane, Anzac and family (over from NZ), Brenda, Terry, Wendy, Trevor, Leigh, Duncan and family, Jeff, Steve, Cheryl,
We all met up at the usual place when heading north, the BP Caboolture for what should have been a 9.00am departure, Duncan and Christy had other ideas. After a short wait we headed off up the highway in convoy all excited for the weekend that lay ahead of us.
We met Tags, Wendy, Steve and Cheryl at the pub at Teewah, then headed down onto the beach. Matt helped recover an elderly couple who were a little bogged with their Cruiser and van, then we headed for camp.
We all set up camp, then made our way over to Matt and Helen’s for an early start to happy hour. It’s always nice to catch up and have a chat.
Saturday morning was a later start, but when everyone was ready, we headed up to the lagoon. It was quite windy still, so we used the cars as a bit of a wind break. A few of us dared to go in the water, but we weren’t in there for too long. Once again, we mostly stood around chatting and just relaxing. Matt once again cooked up a storm, we had a lovely sausage sizzle, thank you Matt!!
On our way back we decided to stop at the tip of the island, where we had a quick group photo, before heading back to camp for another wonderful happy hour, and amazing sunset.
Sunday morning we headed into Rainbow Beach. We had lunch at the pub and a wander through the shops. Being Father’s Day, it was quite busy, and most of the pubs etc were fully booked. We eventually started to head back, we went via the beach way, passed the lagoon then back to the tip, where we stopped and made our way up to the lighthouse. The views didn’t disappoint; it was stunning. We could even see some whales in the distance frolicking in the water; it was quite spectacular. We headed back to camp for our last happy hour for this trip.
Monday morning came around too quickly, and we were all packing up to go home, except for Terry and Wendy. There was no mad rush to pack up, as we had to work in with the tides. We all made it back to the mainland, some with a bit of extra help, hey Christy. We all aired up, then said our goodbye’s and headed off in all different directions.
Thanks Matt for organising yet another wonderful weekend away at Teewah Beach. The next trip might have to be a five-day weekend.
Until next trip.
Brenda
2025 TRED NBCF Weekend at The Springs
Event Overview:
The 2025 TRED NBCF Weekend was a resounding success, bringing together off-road enthusiasts and supporters of the National Breast Cancer Foundation for a weekend of adventure, community, and fundraising. Held at the iconic The Springs 4WD Park, the event saw hundreds of attendees enjoying the rugged terrain, thrilling hill climbs, and vibrant atmosphere.
Brisbane 4WD Club Contribution:
The Brisbane 4WD Club proudly supported the event across multiple key roles, demonstrating teamwork, dedication, and community spirit.
Roles & Responsibilities:
- BBQ Catering:
Our members ran a massive BBQ operation, serving over 800 people throughout the weekend. The delicious meat was generously supplied by Andrews Toowoomba, and our team ensured everyone was well-fed and satisfied.
- Buggy Duties:
Club volunteers operated buggies to transport patrons around the park, ensuring accessibility and comfort for all attendees.
- Marshaling Duties:
Members were stationed at several key hills to assist with safety and coordination:
- TRED Hills
- Legendex Hill Drags
- Beer O'Clock Hill
Their presence helped maintain order and safety during high-energy competitions and hill climbs.
Club Recognition:
Brisbane 4WD Club members represented the club with pride and honour, wearing club colours and engaging with the community in a respectful and enthusiastic manner.
Both Sarah from TRED and Lucas from The Springs expressed their heartfelt appreciation, stating that without the Brisbane 4WD Club, the event simply wouldn’t run as smoothly. Their recognition highlights the club’s vital role in the success of this annual event.
Special Thanks to MDC:
A big thank you to MDC for supplying a van to help transport and store essential equipment throughout the weekend. Their support made logistics smoother and helped our team stay organized and efficient.
A Personal Thank You
On behalf of the Brisbane 4WD Club, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to every member who volunteered their time and energy over the weekend. Your efforts—whether behind the BBQ, driving buggies, marshaling hills, or simply lending a helping hand—made a real difference. You represented our club with pride, honour, and a true sense of community.
Thank you for making this event such a success.
— Matthew Boyd, Public Relations Officer
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New Committee 2025
A huge thank you to the committee of 2024/2025 for all the work they have put into the club. Your efforts are very much appreciated.
Welcome to the new committee for 2025/2026. We look forward to a fantastic year ahead:
President: Robyn Kerr
Vice President: Sam Moorhouse
Treasurer: Mel Fisher
Secretary: Helen Denalis
Assistant Secretary: Cameron Hall
Club Induction Officer: Gareth Costello
Club Induction Assistant: Geraint "G" Holmes Clark
Club Induction Assistant: Lance Walters
Membership Officer: Rachael Wicks
Public Relations Officer: Matt Boyd
Social Coordinator: Kelley Dunk
Sergeant at Arms: Paul "Pugs" Hogan
Association Delegate: Vacant
Training Officer: Vacant
Trip Coordinator: Kelly Dunk
Purchasing: Jennifer Ward
Webmaster: Kat Barrow
Editor: Michelle Manton
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Welcome New Members!
Please join us in welcoming the following new members to the Brisbane 4WD Club:
- Dominique Greer
- Edward Greer
- Gabrielle Greer
- Clynton Druve
- Gerard Hartcher
- Nicholas Rogers
- Carla Rogers
- Felicity Rogers
- Lincoln Rogers
- Axel Rogers
- Jo Ramsbotham
- Aaron Sinclair
- Nathan Sinlcair
- Dale Waterson
- Nicole Howard
- Lochlan Tate
- Virginia Sloane
- Richard Mainey
- Bronwyn Ogunyanwo
- Ruby Ogunyanwo
We’re excited to have you as part of our 4WD family and look forward to seeing you at upcoming events!
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Happy Birthday
July Birthday Shout-Outs:
August Birthday Shout-Outs:
September Birthday Shout-Outs:
We hope you all had a fantastic day and enjoyed your celebrations!
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Upcoming Trips
- Manar Park - 24th October 4WD - Easy/Medium/Hard
- Darche Open Day BBQ – 1st November Support Event
- Border Ranges Tour - 3rd November 4WD - Medium
- The Springs 4x4 Weekend - 7th November 4WD - Medium/Hard
- New Member Induction - 8th November
- Burger Run Nindigully Pub - 14th November Social
- Brisbane 4WD Club Xmas Party - 5th December Social
- Dig In Volunteering Day - 13th December Social
Be sure to register early and visit the Events tab on the app for full event details!
Want to Lead a Trip?
If you're interested in running a trip or event for the club, we'd love to hear from you! Whether it's a day trip or a weekend adventure, leading a trip is a great way to contribute to the club and share your 4WD experience with others. Reach out to us if you're ready to take the lead.
Trip Co-ordinator
Since taking over the role of Trip coordinator in August, I can report there have been some fabulous weekends of wheeling which included:
8/9/10 August: Styx river mini tour which Matt Boyd hosted. The trip which was held in August, started at the Ampol at Blacksoil and travelled through Gatton down to a campground near the Guy Fawkes National Park. The weather was cold and wet, but that did not dampen the spirits of the drivers and passengers. The next day, we explored the Guy Fawks national park and Styx River area where we camped for the next 2 nights. Please see the trip report by Sam Moorhouse for a more detailed account of our adventures and photos.
16th August: Suzuki Sweep up at Wild Horse Mountain, another event hosted by Matt. The clean up was hosted by Matt Boyd and involved the Suzuki JB 76 Club. Please see the trip report completed by Matt Boyd.
22/23/24 August: Leyburn Sprints hosted by Brenda Marment. Each year the town of Leyburn pull together to host the Leyburn sprints where people from all over Aus gather to race around a track formed by the streets of Leyburn. Ruth and Chris Morahan host the sprints and seek volunteers each year to assist them. The trip report was completed by Brenda Marment of the fun over the weekend.
5/6/7/8 September: Discover Teewah. I believe this weekend hosted by Matt Boyd was a very relaxed and enjoyable weekend. Beach driving always has its challenges for new drivers and the Teewah beach drive was no exception. The trip report was completed by Brenda Marment.
19/20/21 September: TRED event. This yearly fundraising event is supported by our club, as we pull together to support TRED to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. The report from Matt Boyd is certainly worth reading. If you would like to participate in next years fundraising event for TRED, keep an eye out for the dates for 2026.
3/4/5/6 October: WreKing long weekend at Moreton Island: This weekend was hosted by Robbie Kerr, where beach driving was plentiful. Such a fun weekend which you can read about in the written report completed by Kat Burrows.
11 October: Old Coach Road. This was included in the Progressive Dinner weekend and lead by Gareth Costello. A huge thank you to Gareth for giving up his Saturday, to take us on this wonderful drive.
Upcoming events: Please see details of the trips on Member Jungle
24/25/26 October: Manar Park Boondooma
7/8/9 November: Springs 4WD education and induction weekend
3-7 November: Border Ranges Woodenbong
14/15/16 November: Burger Run Nindigully
Social Co-ordinator
4 October: Big Kart Go Karting day hosted by Brenda Marment. For the big kids in us, Brenda hosted a Go Karting afternoon at Big Kart Go Karting in Landsborough. See further details in the report by Brenda Marment.
Upcoming social events:
1 November 7am to 2 pm DARCHE BBQ hosted by Matt Boyd
5/6/7 December: Brisbane 4WD Club Xmas weekend hosted by Kel Dunk
13 December: Dig-in afternoon hosted by Paul Hogan (Pugsley) and Helen Danalis
Kelly Dunk
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Hardkorr – Platinum Sponsor
Hardkorr Renews Platinum Sponsorship with Brisbane 4WD Club!
We’re thrilled to announce that Hardkorr has signed on for a second consecutive year as a Platinum Sponsor of the Brisbane 4WD Club!
Hardkorr has long been a trusted name in the 4WD, camping, and outdoor adventure community, and their continued support helps us grow, explore, and connect with fellow off-road enthusiasts.
This partnership means more exciting events, better resources for our members, and a shared commitment to the spirit of adventure that drives us all.
Thank you, Hardkorr, for backing our club and helping us take our 4WD experiences to the next level!
Stay tuned for upcoming events and exclusive member perks thanks to Hardkorr!
TRED – Gold Sponsor
Exciting Partnership Announcement! 
We’re thrilled to welcome TRED 4x4 onboard as a Gold Sponsor for the 2025–2026 season with the Brisbane 4WD Club!
TRED has long been a champion of off-road adventure and community spirit, and this partnership strengthens our shared commitment to both. Together, we’re not just driving forward—we’re making a difference.
One of the highlights of our collaboration is the TRED NBCF Weekend, where the Brisbane 4WD Club proudly supports TRED in raising awareness and funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. It’s more than just a weekend of wheeling—it’s about giving back and standing together for a cause that touches so many lives.
Stay tuned for more updates, events, and ways to get involved. Let’s make this season unforgettable! 
Maverick Overland Australia - Premium 4x4 Accessories
Discount: 15% off all Moose Knuckle Offroad Recovery Gear and Accessories
Discount Code: BNE4WD15
Maverick Overland Australia is 100% Australian owned and operated, built on 20+ years in the automotive game and a decade specializing in 4x4 accessories. We focus on what matters: premium, US-sourced gear that holds up to real Australian conditions—no gimmicks, just proven kit.
We’re not your average 4x4 shop. Our lineup covers recovery gear, LED lighting, cargo management, and more—hand-picked from the best brands in the US. If it’s not on the website, just ask. We’ll track it down or point you in the right direction.
Our mission? Equip Aussie adventurers with reliable gear, honest advice, and no-nonsense support—so you can get out there and do what you love, with confidence. Whether you’re heading off for a weekend on Fraser, planning a run up to the Cape, or just want to be ready for whatever’s down that next track, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s build your setup right—no shortcuts, just solid gear and straight-up service.
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From The Editor's Desk
Thank you to all members for your patience while the club transitioned back to having an Editor.
This issue will seem a little rusty while I get my hands wet trying to learn the club's programs and formatting. Please don't shoot the Editor if this edition is not perfect. I didn't want another week's delay trying to pretty it up. I promise it will get bigger and better each month, which is my hope for future issue releases.
Please remember Whispering Wheels is only as good as you the members make it, so be sure to get your trip reports and photos in to me via the editor's email: editor@brisbane4wdclub.org
Thanks for your patience & support
Michelle
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Thanks to Our Sponsors
Please support the companies that support our Club!
