Our fearless band of Wandoo adventurers assembled at Sawyers Valley around 1700 hours (or 5:00 PM for those who prefer their clocks without a military vibe). With a quick but efficient briefing from our trip leader, David P, we ran through the all-important radio checks, because nothing says 4wd adventure like knowing that you can yell “help!” into the ether, and someone will answer.
With radios crackling and engines rumbling, our convoy set forth toward Wandoo National Park. For those following along at home, we were roughly following the “Wandoo North” trip, as outlined in Western 4WD Driver Magazine’s 4WD Days Out of Perth, 5th Edition.
The journey proper began with a smooth run along the Great Eastern and Great Southern Highways where it was heartening to see the bushland beginning to bounce back after recent fires, proving that nature, like any stubborn Aussie, always finds a way.
Once on Wunderbinnering Road, we paused for a quick regroup, and then it was time for the real fun to begin. Some sections of the track had taken a bit of a battering over the previous winter; nothing too dramatic, but enough to keep things just a little interesting. A bit of strategic wheel placement and just the right amount of throttle ensured we all made it through, unscathed and grinning. From the rookies to the veterans, everyone got a healthy (but responsible) dose of 4WD fun.
As is usual with Track Care outings, our convoy was a mixed bag of vehicles and experience levels, but with plenty of radio chatter, teamwork, and well-timed words of encouragement (or friendly heckling), we all navigated the tracks with ease. The pace was adjusted as needed, making sure everyone could soak in the scenery without feeling like they were in an off-road rally — or about to be left alone out in the bush.
David P, doubling as our mobile history guide, pointed out a number of fascinating features along the way, including some old “blaze trees” once used as navigation markers by forester’s cutting wood in the area. The track dates back to a time when it was the main route from Perth to York. We could only imagine how different those journeys were — trading our air-conditioned, dust-sealed rides for bone-rattling, horse-drawn carts, and swapping our comfy casuals for woollen suits, ties, dresses, and petticoats. No doubt, their version of “Track Care” involved significantly more sweating and swearing.
A stop at Manyuering Spring offered a chance for some impromptu archaeology, as a few intrepid souls went hunting for the old convict ruins. From there, we pressed on to Mount Observation picnic area, where we dined under the open sky and watched the sunset paint the landscape in golden hues.
Just when we thought the evening couldn’t get any more picturesque, we hit the road again — only to soon hit the brakes for an even grander sight; a nearly full moon rising over the adjacent farmlands. Cameras (or phones) clicked, much awe was expressed, and we were all reminded once again why night drives are such a magical experience.
The final stretch of our adventure was a delightful mix of smooth, fast tracks and slower, more technical sections that kept us on our toes (or at least kept our partners and passengers awake). Before we knew it however, all too soon we reached the endpoint, where our group parted ways. Some heading home to Perth, others staying on for the Track Care Wandoo Cleanup which has been planned for the following day.
A huge thank you to everyone who made this trip possible. A fantastic night was had by all, and we left with full hearts, dusty vehicles, and maybe a few more stories to tell. Until next time, Wandoo!
