OFF THE BEATEN TRACK - 4WD IN THE SOUTH WEST

by Graeme Dearle

Touring the main roads of the south west often takes you through some pretty countryside, passing via vineyards, grazing pastures, tall tree's etc, but the real fun happens when you have a 4WD and have the opportunity to get off-road.

4WDing can be a fun and rewarding experience - providing you keep in mind that it can be hazardous if you are not travelling with the right equipment. The minimum you should carry onboard is a first aid kit, shovel and compressor - if you have the right gear and the know how of using it you are more than likely to have a good time - also remember safety in numbers as you may require a second vehicle to get you out of that sticky situation.  Whether you are experienced or just a novice there are tracks and circuits through the south west that can suit you. Remember that the road rules that apply on the main roads also apply
off-road. CALM maintain the national parks and state forests so you have to abide by their rules whether they be in regards to tyre pressures or roads closed due to dieback.

There are many roads used for maintenance of the forests and the CALM maps purchased from the offices should be fairly up to date. One of the best circuits in Pemberton is the D'Entrecasteaux - Warren River circuit. This is our main tour circuit so we do offer tagalong tours for anyone who may not know the area or may not have the expertise. Its a great way to share stories and knowledge. This trek traverses the Yeagarup Sand Dunes - one of the largest inland sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere or if not the largest, stretching from 13km long and 3km at the widest point - an amazing dune system that is slowly creeping in on the forest - one of the south west's special secrets.

Travelling through coastal heath for another 8km of 4WDing to an awesome vista around 3km short of the Southern Ocean - a great fishing beach 30km long however definitely not recommended for swimming unfortunately as its a dangerous ocean. However, the Warren River mouth offers a fairly safe lagoon at most times of the year. The mouth regularly opens and closes all year round. There is no regular location that this happens, only the lowest point along that section will decide. This is one of those points that has to be walked first. Cross at your own peril if the mouth is open.

Certain times of the year (late Nov especially) a large colony of Fairy Terns find a special spot on the beach to lay their eggs - they particularly like tyre tracks as they offer a wind break- they stay there the whole incubation period -  one of those many things to be aware of. When the Warren mouth is closed, 30km of coastline is accessible with three access points: Yeagarup, Calcup & Malimup a circuit is open usually Nov - April. This circuit includes Calcup Hill - a well known challenge for the 4WD driver. There are actually 2 ways up the hill, both reasonably challenging, one more so than the other. Be prepared to drop your tyre pressures even more at this point during Summer. Another awesome view is available at the top of this hill. This is just one of many 4WD adventures we are fortunate enough to have at our doorstep! And one of the many reasons why we have to look after it - take your rubbish home with you & drive carefully.

I'm on UHF 10.

Graeme Dearle is a part owner of Pemberton Discover Tours, which offers a range of informative and awesome 4WD tours of the Pemberton area in the south west. You can find out more details by visiting their web site at http://members.westnet.com.au/pdt/ or emailing them at pdt@wn.com.au.

June 2003