Change of season, chance for adventure

DRIVEN BY ADVENTURE with Nyree and Nathan Johnson

Summer has been and gone, and it is now time to set yourself up for the touring months of the year.

If this is something you have considered, though you are not sure how to get out there and see what this great region has to offer, buckle up. This bug is very contagious.

Central Queensland has some of the best camping and adventure spots you can ask for, not just here on the coast but also in the Central Highlands and the greater Central Western regions.

Locally, and on the coast, there is the ever-popular Byfield area that can give you everything from extreme off-road challenges to basic beach driving.

There are camping areas throughout the Byfield forestry, and plenty of homesteads that offer accommodation as well.

Heading north along the coast, places like Charon Point on the Styx River system can be a great place to camp if you are chasing mud crabs and barramundi.

Further north is Cape Palmerston, and to the south, you have Agnes Water and Deepwater National Park.

All of these areas are awesome for beginners through to the full send club who crave something a little more difficult.

Head west into the Central Highlands, and you will find adventure at nearly every corner.

Not just in your 4WD, but also if you do not mind a nice hike or two.

Kroombit Tops (my favourite) has plush camping grounds and a nice 4WD loop that will take you out to Beautiful Betsy, a US B-24 Liberator Bomber that went missing in 1945 and was found in 1994 by park rangers.

A little hop and a skip away from Kroombit Tops, heading southwest, is Cania Gorge.

The caravan park there is a great family-oriented venue, with hikes into the gorge that will satisfy many.

Further west is another favourite of mine, Carnarvon Gorge. I recommend visiting here and staying a week.

Do the walks in and out of the gorge in parts. Every single hike in the gorge is unique, and you definitely do not want to be rushed visiting this marvellous natural creation.

Day trips in and out of Rockhampton can be had by heading west to places like Goodedulla National Park, Blackdown Tablelands, Upper Ulam, the Mackenzie River crossing north of Duaringa, and even Bedford Weir northwest of Blackwater.

Setting yourself up for these trips away can end in tears if you are not properly prepared. A simple check over your vehicle before heading out can be the difference between having the time of your life or ending your trip early because of a breakdown. If you have recently had a service and your mechanic has a few items that need attention, it would be advisable to have them assessed and ensure your trip does not end because of a failure.

Simple at-home checks:

* Oil level. Check that the oil is dipped and the level is on the maximum marker.

* Coolant level. Check the header tank or overflow bottle. Ensure the coolant level is between the minimum and maximum lines.

* Tyre condition and pressure. Check that your tyres have more than the minimum tread of 1.5 mm across the whole tread section, and that tyre pressures are at manufacturer’s specification. Tyre placards are usually found in the front door jamb.

These simple checks will give you confidence that you can head out knowing the basics have been covered.

If your vehicle has a little more age about it and you need a more thorough inspection, speak with your local mechanic and they will be able to complete the inspection and let you know which repairs are a priority and which ones can wait a little while.

Getting out and about is a great way to give your mind and body the rest and relaxation they need. I highly recommend it. Stay safe on the tracks.