WYPERFELD CUP WEEKEND: 3 – 6 November, 2018
Composite Report by “First Timers”
Woke up very early, still in work mode, fired up the stove and boiled the billy. Breakfast was alright,
porridge made with water, fruit cup and black tea. There was a bit of rustling across the camp and
the rest of the newbies are up. The more experienced are still in bed snoring their heads off.
All fed and watered, we gathered for a group talk about the day ahead. I was feeling very anxious.
We aired down at the start of Milmed Track and soon came across some daunting sand dunes. Being
towards the back of the convoy I had a chance to see how the others drove up.
Having confidence in my ute and knowing the gearbox, I selected 3 rd gear, low range for a little
momentum and plenty of grunt. Just about every time the ute went up like a tractor.
Leading the convoy was hard work. Not only concentrating on my driving but also giving a
commentary on conditions and wild life. A lot to learn.
We stopped at some interesting places. Milmed Rock for a group photo, Hermes garden, swamps
and sand dunes.
Thanks to Ron for his wise words and great tips. Also thanks to Carol for feeding me.
All round, a great experience.
Phil Cameron – 1904
SUNDAY AFTERNOON
The day was quickly closing in, our initial plan, time permitting, was to head via Big Billy before
picking up Brushcutter’s Track. However, we simply did not have the time and the decision was
made to head straight for Chinaman’s Well track. It was a nice change of scenery on the drive back
to camp, some parts with softer or ‘silky’ sand as some of the members may call it, but a nice
tranquil drive for the most part.
We then arrived back at camp, a little late for ‘fivesees’ or perfectly on time as it was 5pm
somewhere in the world. Soon everyone was away making dinner and the sun quickly faded, which
transcended into some stories around the campfire. It was a good night getting to know other
members and hearing about previous trips and adventures past. The fire faded and night set in, one
by one everyone headed back to their campers and tents for another great day on the tracks
tomorrow.
Andrew Paplaskaris - 1907
MONDAY MORNING
After being a member of The Pajero club for 3 years, completion of the Proficiency Course in August
saw me moving from the Passenger seat to the Driver seat. Following our usual morning briefing I
felt confident to take the wheel for the initial stages of our adventure around Lake Albacutya. Ron
and Carol encourage all members to take a turn at being in different roles within the convoy and this
adds to the learning whilst perfecting “the off road” skills.
It is a very different experience being the one out in front in addition to that of driver. Constant
surveillance of the track directly in front of your vehicle along with glances up-ahead keep the brain
Newbies Trip Report.docx
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