Driver Awareness Program

One of the conditions to become a member of the Mackay Land Rover Club Inc or any other club affiliated with 4WD Qld, is that members must complete a Driver Awareness Program . This is also a requirement before prospective members can go on any club trips and is provided as part of your membership fees.

The AIM of the Driver Awareness Program is to:-

Increase driver awareness in all aspects of four wheel driving. This will enable Club members to understand and improve the skills required to safely and competently operate their 4WD vehicle with minimum impact on the environment, their vehicle or themselves.

The Driver Awareness Program is usually run over 2 sessions with the theory session run one evening and a practical session run on a Saturday or Sunday. With couples, both are welcome and in fact, encouraged to complete the program

Topics covered in the Driver Awareness Program include:-

• Club history
• The Principals of 4wding
• Understanding 4WD Systems
• Environmental care
• Convoy procedures
• Campsite etiquette
• Vehicle setup
• Wheel placement
• Practical driving over various terrains
• Safe hill stall recovery
• Basic recovery techniques using snatch straps.
• Safety in the bush

Basic driving skills only are given on the Driver Awareness Program, further reinforcement and improvement of these skills is encouraged by taking part in regular club trips.

Periodically, refresher courses are run for experienced drivers also. This assists members to master driving techniques and gain a better appreciation of the capabilities of their vehicles.

    Theory session in progress at the Gullies

    Recommended minimum recovery kit  

    Snatch strap recovery training at the Gullies  

    Snatch strap recovery with cable dampener in place.