Trip Categories

The Club Committee decided in May 2002 that the trip category definitions will be enforced, for safety reasons. The Committee also decided that any additional requirements for each trip as detailed on the Trip Information Sheet for the trip will be enforced.

The Trip Leader is able to waive a particular requirement for a trip, if the circumstances of the trip permit. This will be shown in the details on the Trip Information Sheet.

The Committee requires Trip Leaders to turn away vehicles or drivers that do not comply.

Family Shiny:

• Description: Family trip. These trips will be straightforward and will usually include some degree of guidance in driving techniques as necessary.
• Drivers: Particularly suited to family outings and drivers new to off-road driving, this category is also open to anybody who enjoys this style of trip.
• Members: Anybody is welcome, especially prospective new members.
• Vehicles: An important objective is minimal challenge and minimal risk to vehicles. Club safety equipment is mandatory for club members; it is not mandatory for non-members although it is recommended for vehicles once their drivers have participated in one or two trips. All open or soft-top vehicles must have a roll bar or roll cage.

Shiny 4x4:

• Description: More difficult family trips, for shiny wagons and drivers with some experience who want more challenge and don’t mind minor bush marks etc on their vehicles.
• Drivers: Must have some experience, preferably from the driver training provided by the club. Particularly important are experience in stropping, failed hill climbs, steep descents and sidlings.
• Members: These trips are for members only. Prospective members and visitors are welcome if they can demonstrate to the Trip Leader they are members of another club and have adequate experience.
• Vehicles: Vehicles must have mud tyres, tow hooks and all the required equipment per the club’s document "Vehicle Safety & Equipment Inspections". This applies to all vehicles on the trip. All open or soft-top vehicles must have a roll bar or roll cage.

Club 4x4:

• Description: Challenging trips, for experienced drivers. There will be steep and challenging terrain, modestly deep water and mud, likelihood of bush marks.
• Drivers: Must have experience beyond that required for Shiny 4x4 trips, including water crossings and vehicle recovery.
• Members: These trips are for members only. Prospective members and visitors are welcome if they can demonstrate to the Trip Leader they are members of another club and have adequate experience.
• Vehicles: Must have mud tyres, tow hooks and all the required equipment per the club’s document "Vehicle Safety & Equipment Inspections". This applies to all vehicles on the trip. Accessories such as high-lift jacks, externally mounted spare tyre, bush bars and multiple jacking points are of advantage. Winches are often particularly useful. Generally a short wheelbase vehicle is better suited for the tight tracks. All open or soft-top vehicles must have a roll bar or roll cage.

Hard Yakka:

• Description: Difficult trips with very challenging terrain and surfaces, where winching, digging, and vehicle damage are all a possibility!
• Drivers: Experienced drivers only.
• Members: These trips are for members only. Prospective members and visitors are welcome if they can demonstrate to the Trip Leader they are members of another club and have adequate experience.
• Vehicles: As per the Club 4x4 category. In addition, a roll-bar or roll-cage is recommended for all vehicles on Hard Yakka trips. All open or soft-top vehicles must have a roll bar or roll cage. Often a winch is mandatory on a Hard Yakka trip; this will be specified on the Trip Information Sheet.