If you’ve been hitting the 4×4 tracks for a while, then you know there are really two types of people out there. The first is the rude and not-so-courteous driver who has a complete lack of etiquette, and the other type is the friendly and level-headed driver who’s a consistent pleasure to travel with. If you’ve been doing this for long enough, you’ll have definitely run into both types of people in the bush. So today, I’m here to help you be the better type of person!
There’s a couple of key elements to track etiquette and being a responsible four-wheel driver including respecting the bush, waste management, respect, keeping tracks open, right-of-way and of course convoy courtesy. Let’s chat about it.
Respecting the tracks
First on the agenda is responsible use of the bush and how it’s crucial when driving on 4×4 tracks. Let me explain. Whilst this might seem a simple concept to most, it does sadly escape others. What I’m talking about is staying on designated tracks, avoiding sensitive areas such as wetlands and wildlife habitats, and not creating new tracks or shortcuts unless necessary.
It’s also important to not damage the environment by driving through vegetation or not following appropriate recovery techniques such as using a trunk-protector during winching. Additionally, be mindful of any wildlife that may be in the area and avoid disturbing them. Pretty simple stuff so far, right?
Don’t be a d**k
Now this is a point that I really shouldn’t have to mention yet here we are. Being friendly and respectful to other track users is key and should be second nature. This includes not driving too fast or recklessly, not making excessive noise around campsites, and being considerate of other vehicles on the track. Giving way to other vehicles, especially those with larger or more capable vehicles is an easy way to come across as a courteous legend too. So give it a go!
Be aware of other vehicles on the track and adjust your driving accordingly. For example, if you come across someone towing, it’s important to slow down and give them extra space.
Rubbish disposal and toilet business
Next up, we need to talk about the proper disposal of your rubbish. It is such an important aspect of track etiquette because littering can have a devastating impact on the environment. We have a saying here at Unsealed, ‘leave the campsite better than how you found it’. This means the places we love to visit will always be left clean, tidy, and available for future generations.
It’s also important to use established toilet facilities wherever possible. If none are available, when doing some bush business, you need to bury it about 30cm deep and as far away from a water source as possible. If we all do our bit to keep the bush clean and litter-free, then we’re protecting the longevity of our favourite hobby.
Do your part to keep tracks open
If you’ve been four-wheel driving around Australia, you would’ve seen a handful of tracks closed by councils and other governing bodies. It’s important that we help change this ever-growing trend.
Keeping tracks open and accessible is arguably the most vital aspect of 4×4 track etiquette in Australia. This means not blocking access to tracks, not creating new tracks or shortcuts (unless necessary), and not causing damage to the track or other infrastructure. It’s also good practice to report any damage or obstacles to the appropriate authorities so that they can be repaired or removed. That being said, if you have the skills and expertise to clear a track yourself like I recently had to, absolutely go for it, just do it safely.
Turn your headlights on
When it comes to headlights, using them on a 4×4 track is a no-brainer, even during the day. This will make it easier for other drivers to see you and will help prevent accidents. Whether the headlights are helping cut through the dust in Cape York or giving you that extra bit of notice as you’re winding your way through a narrow Watagans National Park track. It might seem a little silly, but when visibility is limited, and your heavily loaded 4×4 needs to stop in a hurry, you’ll be thankful when you get that little bit of extra notice thanks to a set of headlights.
Be aware of your surroundings
By now you’re probably getting a sense of how easy it actually is to have appropriate 4×4 etiquette when you’re out in the bush. Our second last tip is being aware of your surroundings, especially with on-coming vehicles. This includes slowing down, pulling over if necessary and giving the right-of-way where it makes sense. Be aware of your vehicle’s size and capabilities and adjust your driving accordingly. Plus, there are those little things called blind spots. Adjust your mirrors, use towing mirrors if needed, and constantly stay vigilant.
Convoy etiquette
Finally, let’s quickly touch on convoy etiquette. Have you ever been stuck behind one of those drivers who constantly varies their speed? Pretty annoying right? Don’t be that person, keep a consistent speed! It’s also important to communicate effectively with the other drivers in your convoy. A good quality UHF like a GME is perfect, whether it’s a handheld unit or a permanently mounted in-car unit.
That wasn’t so hard, was it?
That brings us to the end of this self-help piece. It’s not that hard to follow these simple etiquette tips, and I guarantee you that if you follow them, not only will you have a much better time off-road, but you’ll also be the talk of the town. Most importantly though, you’ll be helping promote safe and courteous 4x4ing whilst maintaining our much-loved bushland for future generations.
