Regions across New South Wales and Victoria are shivering through a prolonged cold snap with many inland areas recording sub-zero temperatures this morning. The frigid air has brought record-challenging lows. At 6:30 am, the coldest spot in NSW was Goulburn in the Southern Tablelands, hitting a bone-chilling -5.7 degrees Celsius. Other regions weren’t spared, with temperatures plummeting to -4.7C in Young and -4.8C in Temora, nearing record lows. The cold snap is set to continue, with predicted record-breaking cold weather all week. This icy blast has also raised the likelihood of snow above the snow line in regional NSW and Victoria.
For 4X4ers this means prime conditions for winter wheeling. The snow-covered tracks and frost-laden mountains offer a unique opportunity for Aussie’s to wheel and camp in the snow. Whether you’re looking to test your rig’s capabilities in a fresh terrain or simply enjoy the serene beauty of snow-capped gum trees, now is the time to gear up and embrace the cold.
Vehicle Prep
Before heading out for a weekend in the white stuff, it’s crucial to ensure your rig is winter-ready. Start by packing extra blankets and warm clothing to stay cozy if you get stuck or need to make an unexpected stop. Reliable communication is essential as well; consider carrying a sat phone in remote areas where mobile coverage is patchy. At the very least, a good vehicle-based UHF if you’re not too far from a major road.
For those venturing into the proper Alps, fill up with alpine diesel to prevent fuel gelling in the extreme cold. Ensure your radiator is topped up with anti-freeze/coolant to protect your engine from freezing temperatures. And check your battery’s health, as cold weather can reduce its performance. If you’re out in a convoy, a set of jumper cables are a smart option, solo 4X4ers should invest in a jumper pack.
Additionally, snow and ice offer far less traction than a hard-packed fire trail. Ensure you’re heading bush with at least a set of all-terrain tyres or some snow chains stowed in your drawers. Finally, pack essential recovery gear, including a winch, recovery straps, traction boards, and a shovel, to handle any challenges the snowy trails might throw at you.
