June 2024

In my mind, only three things are certain in life: death, taxes and that bitumen roads are bloody boring. So, tackling a trip like Brisbane to Sydney using as many dirt roads as possible is, in my mind, an absolute dream trip. And that might sound surprising, because it’s not K’gari, or the Canning, or, in fact any of the big-ticket items. It’s a gem, hidden in plain sight just waiting for adventurous wheelers to take it on, and the best bit? You’re in charge, you can choose where you want to point the bonnet. Unlike many other journeys, this one isn’t linear.   So, for our first bite-size chunk, we steered our way from North Stradbroke Island to Tenterfield. Partly by design, partly because Mother Nature in all her ferocity forced us that way due to fires. The real party piece of this leg is that it had something for 4X4er, mud, ruts, sand, corrugations and almost everything in between.  North Stradbroke Island  Cue what is possibly the only island I haven’t managed to find myself bogged up to the rear-view mirrors on. I can’t lie (I mean, you’ve all seen the show) that likely had a lot to do with the factory twin-locked Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor I was driving. North Stradbroke Island, or ‘Straddie’ as affectionately known by locals, isn’t just a haven for beachgoers and sun-seekers who missed all the ads…

In an age dominated by digital navigation, the art of reading a paper map may seem like a relic of the past. Yet, for 4X4ers mastering this skill is not just about tradition but also about safety, independence, and the thrill of exploration. Topographic maps, or topo maps, offer a wealth of information, depicting the beauty and challenges of the terrain ahead in a way no GPS can. Topographic maps are distinct from ordinary maps. They don’t just show roads and trails; they enable you to visualize three-dimensional terrain on a flat piece of paper. This is accomplished through contour lines, scale, and a legend that deciphers symbols and colours.  Map reading is an essential skill for safety and emergency planning. By understanding the terrain and features of your chosen area, you can identify potential hazards, such as steep cliffs, river crossings, or dense forests. This knowledge allows you to plan safer routes, avoid risks, and prepare for emergencies. Moreover, in situations where technology fails or GPS signals are lost, a paper map becomes an invaluable tool for finding your way back to safety. This guide aims to give you an intro to paper maps. How to read them, how to use them to work out where you are, and how to use them to plan a route understanding what…