The Member Rig Spotlight is all about showcasing the diverse range of 4WD vehicles within the Offroad and Camping Club of Victoria, Inc. Every member builds their rig differently depending on how they like to travel — whether it’s tackling challenging tracks, touring long distances, or enjoying relaxed camping weekends. This feature gives everyone a chance to share their setup, highlight what works for them, and inspire others within the club.
Each post can include details such as the vehicle make and model, key modifications (like suspension, tyres, recovery gear, or touring setups), and a favourite trip or destination. Members can also share a bit about how they use their vehicle, any standout features, or lessons learned along the way. Along with photos of the rig in action or at camp, these posts help build community, spark conversations, and give others ideas for their own setups.
Colin and Sabrina Rig
Our retirement includes travelling Australia, initially towing our camper trailer, now an off-road van. We were not sure how much off-road terrain we would drive. So we bought a very capable standard Prado 150 GXL (2013). This has stood the test of time and a few bumps and 150,000 km all over Australia. Much of this towing but with interludes on sand, corrugations, steep tracks, rocky areas and water crossings.
As I completed some training and started to understand the capability of the car and improve my own capability, we started to consider upgrades. I noticed that many off-road tracks were cleared so a lifted 4WD would not scrape. So the standard 50mm lift came first. I went for TJM. They are good but not as expensive as ARB and others that are market leaders. We were happy with them, but if we had known how challenging driving was going to be, we may have paid more.
Over the years, we have added an air pump, wired UHF, a second battery, winch and snorkel for the vehicle, and a fridge for us. I have generally installed these myself. This is partly for cost but also to bring up my skills, as repairs in obscure locations are quicker if you can do them yourself. I carry a comprehensive tool kit that includes gaffer tape, tie wire and zip ties.
Everyone tells their tale of the replacement part that you need to take. I find everyone has their preferred part based on their own mechanical failure. I tend to carry very few specific parts, but I always have my satellite communicator to get help, etc.
We joined the OCCV to make friends to travel with. We were introduced by friends who were members. Our favourite trips are the long ones to remote locations. Watch out for the solar eclipse in July 2028.
Janelle and Dale Rig
ColinOur vehicle is a 2021 Ford Ranger extra cab. My husband and I have been with the club for many years. Being retired we really enjoy longer trips, especially to arid areas of Australia. So much to see. Last year’s trip along the Canning Stock Route certainly was one of the highlights of our time with the club.
On the tray is a Jackson’s Hardlid Camper, (manufactured in Murray Bridge, SA) integrating a roof-top camper with diesel heating; kitchen setup; fridge and freezer; water tanks; battery; lighting: awning.
Modifications to the vehicle are as follows:
- 300mm chassis extension
- Tub was removed and replaced with an aluminium tray
- Under the tray is a 900 mm drawer and 70 litre water tank
- The standard fuel tank has been replaced with a long range fuel tank.
- Other accessories
- bull bar
- winch
- snorkel
- roof rack
We’re kicking off our new Member Rig Spotlight series, and I thought I’d start things off with my own rig.
I’m Edith, and this is my Mitsubishi Pajero, which my husband and I both take turns driving — it’s been a great setup for getting us out on our camping and offroad adventures together.
Mods:
- Snorkel
- Bull bar
- Winch
- Lockers
- Lift
- Roof racks
- Awnings
- Bash plates
Favourite trip: when we got to volunteer at Farina and do their four wheel drive tour
Looking forward to seeing everyone else’s setups.