| Thank you to the ‘RatBag’ element who had investigated this new venue, produced our new trip information sheets and were our trip leaders for the very successful weekend. The trip information sheets were accurate in outlining details of the trip, and gave participants details of the expected conditions to assist with vehicle preparation and equipment needed.
16 vehicles to attend shows the active membership we have.
We were the first large group to attend the Whateley property at Loveday which is just out of Barmera and therefore this report will be weighed towards providing information to other groups considering this venue.
In short
An extremely good weekend. Our hosts went out of their way to assist.
Wide range of terrain which will vary according to the weather. Suitable for 4WD novices to very experienced.
Unspoilt/uncleared vegetation.
Wide range of native animals and birds.
Would we go again – Yes!
Close to Adelaide.
I am one of the newest members of the AJC and have only owned this my 1 st 4WD since Feb 2005.
Vehicle 96 Grand Cherokee 4litre auto.
Extractors, Wrangler road tyres. 35psi.
As we only had a one night stay some elected to stay at the Barmera Hotel/Motel and another couple at other country accommodation. For a group booking or an extended stay it would be worthwhile enquiring about any special deals. Also check the structure of the pricing as to what it includes.
The AJC opted to take advantage of the catered package offered to us which simplified arrangements and meant that we stayed as a single body for the weekend. It meant also we could make a discussion to move off and be gone without having to wait around which is often the case when everyone does their own thing.
Our main body left Salisbury Park at 6.30am Saturday and cruising at 100kph arrived at about 8.50am at the Mobil Servo at Barmera.
Within a short time all vehicles were present and we proceeded to meet our hosts at the entrance to their property. Waiver/indemnity forms were completed and handed in, before the group was split up.
Host Sarah took those towing direct to the camp site to off load whilst Tony gave out an observation trail route to the others which took us along a track through some unspoilt native vegetation. The idea being to join up with the others on route.
As the week prior to the weekend had been very wet we all bunched up eventually and it became a game of picture taking/learning as we negotiated a very muddy-challenging trail.
It soon became apparent that the lead vehicle had the hardest job in that it had to break the surface with caution to test the track which did not give him the momentum he needed at times.
I was a little behind the lead and for me it became if he can so can I. Given the depth of mud my decision to leave my road pattern tyres at 35psi did not disadvantage me at all. Stationary all the tyres were smooth with mud. In reflection the higher inflation meant I was cutting thru the mud to the harder area where as those with the wider foot (dropped pressure) were using up more power to push more mud. (open to discussion).
We took a small break at what was to have been our original camp site, would have been a terrific spot on the banks of the Murray. Ideal canoeing spot.
Out of the mud and into the sand hills. Rich red sand, sun was out and ideal for pictures.
Thanks to the Mitsubishi Club and members of the driver training unit I had now entered a more relaxed zone.
I was quietly comfortable what my Jeep could do in sand, since spending May LWE with them.
Back to camp for lunch. BBQ all you could eat and more.
Due to wind conditions and the weather our camp site was now in the implement shed on the property.
This was ideal and gave protection for the gathering, food and cooking.
After lunch we followed Tony our host on a trip around the property till we came to 3 rocky hill climbs. We all managed the 1 st one but only one managed the 2 nd climb.
By now it was cold and windy so we returned to camp, pitch the tents and enjoy the campfire and a roast tea.
Most went on an after tea night run which only lasted about an hour.
The campfire was my option.
Those staying in Barmera left about 9.30pm whilst those staying at camp had some games before retiring.
My wife (Sue) and myself stayed at the Barmera Hotel which was I feel good value for money. A warm shower and a good sleep was what we wanted and after washing our windscreens were back at the camp for 8.00am breakfast.
Country hospitality with eggs, bacon, sausages as much as you could eat.
The Sunday morning guided tour took us out more to the lower lying swampy areas for more mud.
With an extra days wind it was amazing how quickly things dried out. At one point those who wanted more challenges diverted off to meet up with us at a viewing point near an area of natural regeneration. This same area also is home to 4 species of frogs.
Each has a distinctive call which would make it interesting for another night trip.
Lunch was the left overs which considering the size of breakfast didn’t see too many big eaters.
SUMMARY
If you like the bush this area has a lot to offer.
The campsite on the banks is just beautiful and does not get crowded by house boats and the speed boats as does the more popular tourist areas and shack areas. For 4WD’s it offered varied challenges to suit all. The fishing is like everywhere – you need to discover the right spot.
Thanks for the camping.
Bob Page
AJC
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