Trip Procedure

Travelling in a group

Travelling in a group will always be safer than travelling on your own. However as a group of individuals we need some guidelines to follow so that we are able to expect standard responses to common situations. The 4WD trip procedure is a set of guidelines that are intended to reduce risks and stress. Please keep this in mind at all times.

​This procedure is common knowledge among members of most 4WD clubs

Radio Communication

​The Trip Leader will usually have direct radio contact with the Tail End Charlie (TEC) most of the time. With dusty roads requiring vehicles to increase the distance between each of them, radio messages may need to be relayed.

Our club’s base UHF channel is 16. If there is too much traffic an alternate channel may be designated by the trip leader.

​Keep your radio messages brief and to the point.

Trip Procedure

Trip procedure is a communication method developed by 4WD clubs before the advent of vehicle to vehicle radios. It is still relevant, as it allows all members of the trip to stay together without any verbal communication.

  • Observe and obey all Department of Transport & Main Roads and local traffic regulations at all times.
  • Each driver shall travel at a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of them at all times.
  • No vehicle shall pass the Trip Leader except in an emergency.
  • Each driver is responsible for maintaining contact with the vehicle behind them.
  • All vehicles must wait at each intersection, clearly indicating their direction of travel using their indicators.
  • Each vehicle can proceed when the tailing vehicle reaches the intersection and can observe the next stage of route.
  • Should you become separated from the trip, pull to the side if the road and wait for a member of the trip to return. (D0 NOT PROCEED ANY FURTHER)
  • The vehicle directly behind the trip Leader shall open any gates and allow the remainder of the trip to pass before leaving the gate as found and rejoining the trip in front of Tail-End Charlie.
  • In difficult areas (e.g. water crossings, steep hills) use common sense and observe trip procedure. One vehicle to traverse the area at a time, preferably being called through by the vehicle in front of them.
  • Any vehicle leaving the trip for any reason shall wave past the remainder of the trip and inform Tail-End Charlie of their intention.