TRIP REPORT: TRAINING DAY

Date: 09/11/2008
Trip Leader: Rae Warne
Trip Report: Audrey Watt

Having thoroughly enjoyed my first drive with the Nelson 4WD Club on Ladies’ Day and again on the Ikamatua trip, I thought it was high time I got to increase my confidence and learn a bit more about 4x4 driving with my fellow members - and our Landcruiser. What better way to do this than on Rae Warne’s well-timed Training Day. Sam, having attended the training day previously, promised to meet me ‘after the exam’ to come play in the afternoon.

At the venue, I was met by Rae, Brent and Pete, who told me that although I was the only attendee we would crack on with my instruction, then take what I had learned out into the field (and forestry too as it turned out!).

Over the next couple of hours, these guys were good enough to run through all of the basics anyone would need to know about off road driving (from vehicle checks to safety equipment, centre of gravity, clearances, differentials, hill starts, you name it we covered it) and also imparted their own personal experiences - of things to do and things they had seen that I shouldn’t. I can’t emphasize enough how much I took away from the morning’s instruction and video sequences and, there was no exam - thanks, Sam!!!

We then headed out to Cable Bay to check in at Happy Valley Adventures for our route for the afternoon. The idea being to take what we had covered and do some trials in the paddock, but lo and behold, we also ended up having access to the upper reaches of the forestry’s skid sites for logging operations. This was unexpected and a rare treat, so as the sun came through, we headed off and for the next few hours went through water, some tightly angled paddock manoeuvres and up and over the steep forestry paths. The highlights for me (apart from being looked after by three lovely men) were getting a pass from Rae on my hill starts and the stunning views from the top of the site over Pepin Island and out to sea. So ladies, partners, anyone new to the club, even thinking of joining the club or looking to refresh your skills, please attend the next training day. You will learn heaps, experience another well planned and executed day out and - hopefully – cause no worries for yourself (or fellow members) on your next trip…….fingers crossed!

‘No, thumbs out Audrey!’…OK, Rae …")