Q: ‘4WD Action’ is the best 4WD-related publication in the world. In your own view, what is it that makes the mag so special, and also, so popular?
This is a magazine put together from start to finish by people who live and breathe 4WDing. Just like our audience, we’re enthusiasts and very passionate about the offroad lifestyle. I believe we are much loved because we give readers what they want (as simple as that sounds).
We will spend over a month testing, fitting and breaking lockers for example, just so we can deliver the no bull information that 4WDers crave and can’t get anywhere else.
Giving fellow 4WDers great value for money is also a big hit with our audience – where else can you get a 308 page magazine filled with tech articles, hard-hitting features, great customs, 4WD travel and a movie length DVD each issue for under $10?
Q: In issue 159, you had the opportunity (we are jealous!) to drive the same Artic Hilux that was on the famous North Pole expedition (Top Gear) and that drove up the side of a live volcano in Iceland. What was it like to see that car in the flesh, and go for a decent drive?
Talk about an experience, I’m still trying to wipe the smile from my face! The Arctic Hilux is without a doubt a beast and much to my surprise a very capable truck…Almost as good as the 60.
Q: What's your ride? Have you made any changes or modifications to it? Do you have any plans for other mods in the future?
I have LandCruiser 60 series turbo diesel. I’ve built it for touring and the odd tough track. Mods so far include, lockers front and back, 2in lift, 33in muddies, winch bar, HID spotties, UHF, 3in exhaust, front mount intercooler, re-built transmission with billet torque converter and custom valve body, rear bar, dual batteries, mounted compressor and air tank… probably a few other things, but that usually keeps me out of trouble! Future mods? Where does it end…never I suppose that’s what’s so good about modifying your 4WD. Probably a set of sliders.
Q: No expense spared, what is your 'dream' 4WD?
A 60 Series of course! If money wasn’t an issue I would have a new LandCruiser 76 Series wagon with all the fruit and a fuel card that would last me a few laps of Oz.
Q: What is the best off-road destination you have been to, and where else would you love to go?
I would have to say the Simpson Desert. There’s nothing like driving for four days and not seeing another soul. Mix that with sitting around a desert camp with mates and watching a piece of mulga wood burn while you have a coldie and as the sun disappears behind a red sand dune. It’s an experience of a lifetime and what keeps me addicted to this great lifestyle of ours.
I would love to go to the Kimberley and drive the Canning – another two must see places!
Q: What is your favourite beer and camp-cooked meal?
Beer would have to be a cold tinny of Carlton Draught. Meal? It doesn’t get much better than a roast slow cooked in a camp oven or my famous (for all the wrong reasons) curried sausages!
Q: What is the best part about your job as editor of 4WD Action, and what is the hardest?
Where do I start? Test driving new 4WDs, visiting some of the greatest off road destinations this country has to offer and trying out the latest 4WD products is definitely right up there. The hardest part is coming back to civilisation when I have been bush for a while!
Q: What other things are you interested in? (sports, hobbies, music - anything?)
Other than 4WDing and camping, I am right into fishing and spearfishing. If I’m not 4WDing you’ll find me out on (or under) the water.
Q: What is your favourite off-road driving tip?
Traction – it’s everything off road. If you’re driving a challenging rocky incline for instance, make sure you plan exactly where you want your tyres to be and plan out the entire obstacle from start to finish. Pick enough throttle to get you past the obstacle, but not so much that you break traction or end up bouncing all over the place. Pick how much throttle you need and stick with it, don’t vary your revs all over the place. Get your throttle control right and you’ll be out-driving your mates in no time!
Thanks Shaun!
Cheers, Kirk.
Your 'favourite off-road driving tip' is a pearl of wisdom Shaun. It is evident when watching someone try and slam through a difficult track as opposed to witness another driver picking his way through with great throttle control coupled with a good line.
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where are you from/grow up in what town
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