4WD: Still on the write track after 25 years
_BUYING _ local is a good thing - money stays in the community and supports other local businesses and helps keep you in employment.
It's even better when the local product is jam-packed full of local know-how the east coast just can't quite pick up on, or can't devote themselves to as they focus on their own local buyers.
Local four-wheel- drivers have demonstrated they understand these ideas very well as this month the iconic "little" West Australia-based magazine Western 4WDriver celebrates 25 years of bringing a WA flavour to the world of 4WD publications.
Western 4WDriver might be small in size - it has retained its glove-box dimensions - but every quarterly issue is crammed with stories on local products and services, WA-based travel destinations, track news and issues impacting drivers enjoying their outback backyard.
In 1989, when the magazine kicked off with reviews of
vehicles, it was the unveiling of the 80 Series Landcruiser and the Nissan GQ Patrol with "coils all round" that sparked the enthusiasm of readers, and accessory upgrades were complete with a bull bar, roof rack, spotties and CB.
The current issue showcases the futuristic path of four-wheel- driving with a review of the first hybrid SUV, the Mitsubishi Outlander, and provides plenty of ideas for accessories - although the latest in bull bars, spotties and comms is not forgotten.
Also, there's plenty of inspiration for travel destinations, from remote Rudall River to off-the-blacktop tours through to Alice or across the Nullarbor.
There's even an intrepid traveller's tale of tackling the Canning on two feet rather than the tough task of getting through with your feet firmly planted on your fourby's pedals. Simply put, this issue is another great mag - even after 25 years they keep coming.
Nick Underwood, editor for the duration, says running the magazine has been a dream job, with his hobby/work creating a lifestyle the envy of many.
But his greatest pleasure is encountering enthusiastic readers out in the bush, having the time of their lives and passing that enthusiasm on to their kids.
"The bush brings out the best in everyone," Underwood said.
Pick up a copy at your local newsagency, 4WD/camping/ map store or subscribe at western4wdriver.com.au.
Or you can stop by at the 4WD and Adventure Show from November 7 and congratulate Nick on 25 years of coming back to his desk to share his off-road adventures and inspire others.
SAFARI, SO GOOD *
_Don't forget, Friday, September 19, is your last chance to celebrate and farewell the Australasian Safari at the free family event, the Safari Show, from 4pm at the Wanneroo Showgrounds. _
_You'll have the chance to see the competitors and their tough machines up close before the 127 racers take on seven days and 3500km of gruelling WA outback terrain in this iconic motorsport event that is the ultimate endurance test of both man and machine. _
There's plenty of inspiration for travel destinations.
