Four wheel drive users can go to the next step by undertaking a NSW Department of Primary Industries PROfarm short course at Armidale next month. 

The course, to be held on Wednesday and Thursday 15 and 16 February, will teach participants how to operate and maintain a 4WD vehicle safely and effectively under a range of off-road conditions. 

“Participants also learn how to safely carry out vehicle recovery operations,” said NSW DPI PROfarm course organiser Julie Chapman. 

This practical course is delivered using a mix of indoor and outdoor instruction and covers: 

• Maintenance and pre-start checks 
• Water crossings, operating  vehicles on or across a slope 
• Ascending and descending a steep slope 
• Operating a vehicle in rugged terrain 
• Stall recovery 
• Vehicle recovery techniques – snatch straps, winching and jacking 
• 4WD theory. 

Course participants are asked to bring their own vehicle if possible, or arrange with organisers to supply a vehicle. 

The course costs $480 GST free and will be delivered by off-road 4WD trainers Colin and Carolyn Noon. Registration and payment closes on 8 February. 

Participants will receive a copy of The Glove Box Guide to Four Wheel Driving and a certificate of attainment on successful completion of the course.  

The course will be held at the University of New England, Armidale, between 8.30 am and 4.30 pm. 

To register contact Julie Chapman on 02 67631285 or Cassie Gardiner on 02 67631276. 

Further details can be obtained by email to tamworth.profarm@industry.nsw.gov.au 

Media contact: Howard Spencer 02 66568825 or mobile 0428696672