Embargoed to 12.01am, 27 November 2008

163/08

Locust swarms potential driving hazard

MOTORISTS planning trips to regional Victoria during the summer season are being urged to exercise extreme caution if encountering Australian plague locust swarms en route. An emergency response was declared following locust hatchlings in northeast Victoria in early October and another generation of eggs may begin hatching in mid-December. While the most significant hatching activity is anticipated in northern Victoria and across the NSW border, drivers could potentially encounter a locust swarm anywhere as locusts can fly hundreds of kilometres a day. RACV and emergency response manager, the Victorian Department of Primary Industries, are urging motorists to be prepared if faced with a swarm while driving. RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, said it was likely most Melburnians would never have experienced a locust swarm and would be in the dark as how best to cope. “While locusts have an inherent capacity enabling them to fly in massive numbers without colliding with one another, they are not so smart when it comes to avoiding vehicles,” Mr Case said. “Locusts fly both at day and night and generally at a low altitude, and as their fat-laden bodies can measure up to 42mm, when they impact on a windscreen they literally explode. “This leaves a sticky residue that may render windscreen wipers useless and can very quickly obscure a driver’s vision. This presents a potentially dangerous scenario, especially for motorists driving into a swarm at night on a country road where the speed limit is 100km/h.” Mr Case said in such a scenario drivers should gradually reduce speed, activate hazard lights, and come to a stop at a safe location, turning on headlights to further alert other drivers of their vehicle’s presence. “Motorists should also turn off their engines once stopped as dead locusts can easily clog a vehicle’s cooling system and cause the engine to overheat,” he said. While it was possible to keep driving if visibility was only partially obscured, motorists should exercise extreme caution — reduce speed, turn on headlights, look out for oncoming vehicles and monitor temperature gauge for signs of overheating. Mr Case said before departing on a journey, motorists could add windscreen cleaning solution to washer systems — available in supermarkets, auto accessory outlets and service stations. “Carrying spare water, solution and cleaning cloths is also a good idea, as is considering installing an insect protection screen on your vehicle’s radiator air inlet,” he said. Victorian Agriculture Minister, Joe Helper, said the DPI and RACV wanted to ensure that Victorian motorists were well prepared for a safe holiday season.

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“By taking these precautionary safety steps, motorists can significantly improve their safety while driving through locust swarms this Christmas and summer period,” he said. Mr Helper said the DPI had worked diligently to minimise the impact of any locust plague into Victoria. “From early October we began operating from an Incident Control Centre at Tatura and there has been more than 18,000 man hours employed trying to minimise the impact of more than 500 samples of locusts confirmed as Australian plague locusts by DPI entomologists,” he said. “The Brumby Government will continue to combine efforts with landholders and the community to control the outbreak as much as possible.” Go to www.dpi.vic.gov.au/locusts for driving tips and more information on Australian plague locusts. RACV media contact, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

12 January 2009

02/09

Don’t leave kids or pets in ‘death traps’

MOTORISTS are being reminded not to leave children or pets locked inside vehicles, even for

the briefest period, with temperatures set to soar during the next two days.

RACV patrols were called out 1486 times to rescue people locked in cars during the 12 month

period from December 2007 to November 2008 — an increase of 58 incidents from the

previous 12 month period.

The majority of those locked inside vehicles were children, babies and infants, while the rest

were animals, typically dogs.

“Locking people in cars, particularly small children, is a totally unacceptable and clearly

dangerous practice,” said RACV Manager Road User Team, Thanuja Gunatillake.

“Unfortunately RACV figures for call-outs to vehicle lock-ins indicate that this trend has not abated during the past 12 months.

“Victoria is facing extremely high temperatures during the next two days so under no circumstances should anyone leave a child or pet in a car while they run even a short errand.

“In these extreme temperatures, even when parked in shade, a stationary vehicle’s interior is a death trap with the temperature reaching a lethal 60 degrees within a matter of minutes,

regardless of whether windows are left open.

“So a child or an animal locked in a car would certainly suffer seriously or die due to heatstroke or dehydration.”

Although RACV Roadside Assistance — 13 11 11 — prioritised call-outs to vehicle lock-ins, even if it only took a few minutes for a patrol to reach the scene, victims were likely to be

distressed or worse. Ms Gunatillake said the forecast high temperatures would also put extra pressure on vehicles

and urged all motorists to ensure their vehicles were in A1 condition.

“Your car’s radiator and cooling system will be under the pump, so we’re advising all motorists, regardless of what kind of vehicle they drive, to check fluid levels,” she said.

“And driving in extreme heat is very trying so please be patient and don’t give in to road rage.”

• See next page for a list of RACV call-outs for vehicle lock-ins over the past 12 months.

Media contact: Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

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RACV call outs for vehicle lock-ins, December 2007 to November 2008

Dec ‘07 116

Jan ‘08 74

Feb ‘08 109

Mar ‘08 97

April ‘08 138

May ‘08 140

June ‘08 122

July ‘08 146

Aug ‘08 146

Sept ‘08 144

Oct ‘08 153

Nov ‘08 101

Total 1486

2 March 2009

20/09

Historic convoy heads north east

THE eighth RACV Fly the Flag Tour hits the road on Saturday 21 March and will roll through numerous Victorian towns in seven days, covering more than 1390km. Leading the way for more than 200 exceptional vehicles participating in the North Eastern Tour are an immaculate 1928 Chevrolet Tourer and a priceless 1936 Mercedes Benz 540K. RACV Motoring Interests Coordinator, Brian Kelly, said this year’s tour would visit many areas devastated by the recent bushfires and that the 400-strong contingent of motoring buffs were keen to show their support for these hard-hit communities. “We really want to demonstrate solidarity with the residents of these north-east communities who are now trying to rebuild their towns and lives,” Mr Kelly said. “When the Flag tour last visited this area about three years ago, taking in towns such as Beechworth, Yackandandah and Myrtleford, we were made to feel incredibly welcome wherever we went. “Now we’d like to return the favour and provide communities with a temporary distraction from their troubles with displays of our historic vehicles, as well as financial benefits associated with our visit.” Mr Kelly said the annual tour represented RACV’s commitment to keeping the spirit of historic motoring alive as well as providing enjoyment to spectators along the way. “Understandably, given some of the cars’ ripe old age, we do get the odd mechanical hiccup, but thanks to back-up from our two RACV patrol vans, we can usually get them back on the road. No-one gets left behind,” he said “While it’s obviously a great buzz for vehicle owners, the tour also celebrates the significant contribution made by the automobile in opening up regional areas to economic growth and tourism.” Mr Kelly said notable tour vehicles featured classic Alfa Romeos, Austins, Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, Buicks, Fords, MGs, Healeys, Humbers, Hillmans, Singers, Chevrolets, Ferraris, Holdens, Minis, Morgans, Mercedes, Jeeps, Jaguars, Rovers and Porches. “Everywhere we go, people always turn out in droves to admire these magnificent automobiles, all of which are at least 25 years old and in pristine condition,” he said. “We’ll also be taking RACV’s iconic 1955 yellow FJ Holden and the Beechworth RACV Depot’s 1946 Chevrolet Maple Leaf tow truck, driven by proprietor Ian Downes, will also be shadowing the convoy.” Spectators and media will get plenty of opportunities to admire the historic car fleet and pick owners’ brains at vehicle displays en route — see next page.

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Fly the Flag 2009 North Eastern Tour timetable Day One – Saturday, March 21: Melbourne to Kerang, 293km Tour departs Government House, Melbourne at, 9am, via Western Ring Rd to Calder Highway to Marong. Interview/photo opportunities, noon to 2pm, Marong Park Marong. Post-lunch, travel via Serpentine to Kerang. Day Two – Sunday, March 22: Kerang to Yarrawonga, 308km Interview/photo opportunity at vehicle display, 7am to 9am, Kerang Basketball Stadium Kerang. Depart Kerang, 9am, travel via Echuca, Tocumwal and Yarrawonga. Day Three – Monday, March 23: Yarrawonga to Shepparton, 187km Vehicle display, interview/photo opportunities, Yarrawonga and Border Golf Club , 7am to 9am. Convoy travels via Byramine Homestead, Murray Valley Highway and lunch stop, noon to 2pm at Kyabram Fauna and Fauna Park. Post-lunch, travel to Shepparton. Day Four – Tuesday, March 24: Shepparton to Beechworth, 143km Vehicle display and interview/photo opportunities at Lake Victoria Park Shepparton, 7am to 9.30am. Day Five – Wednesday, March 25: Beechworth to Mount Beauty and return, 109km Vehicle display, interview/photo opportunities at Mount Beauty Sports Oval, 11am to 2pm. Day Six – Thursday, March 26: Beechworth to Mansfield, 125km Convoy departs Police Paddocks Beechworth, following 7am to 9am vehicle display. Day Seven – Friday, March 27: Mansfield to Lilydale (Melbourne), 159km Vehicle display, interview/photo opportunities, Mansfield Sporting Complex, 7am to 9am. Depart Mansfield on Maroondah Highway to Alexandra, Healesville and Lilydale. Lunch at Lilydale International Club. Vehicle display, including presentation of trophies, noon to 3pm. RACV Media Contact, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx Fly the Flag North Eastern Tour 2009 vehicle owners available for interview Name Vehicle Year Location Phone Doug Palling Mercedes 280SL 1969 Ravenswood 0427 508 095 Ron Atkinson MG TF 1954 Swan Hill 0428 500 085 Peter Ninnis Ford Thunderbird 1956 Swan Hill 0427 320 035 Peter Cooper Rolls Royce 1954 Albury 0408 204 432 Ian Downes Chevrolet truck 1946 Beechworth 5728 1272 Doug Heiner Wolseley 18/85 1948 Wodonga 0427 271 797 Daryl Meek Dodge Brougham 1933 Ballarat 0419 893 983 John McCallum Valiant S Series 1963 Tocumwal 0409 742 196 Bob McGrath Jaguar Mk IV 1946 Avenel 0407 562 003 Greg Myers BMW 2002 1971 Mansfield 0429 010 479 Euan Paton Ford A 1930 Huntly 0418 387 859 Lyn Rieniets Ford Thunderbird 1964 Nagambie 0412 209 653 Bob Robbins Triumph 4A 1966 Minyip 0427 857 346 Colin Thomas Triumph Stag 1976 Kangaroo Flat 0427 507 044 George Chrystie Daimler V12 1973 Tocumwal 0429 382 409 Trevor Beythien Chrysler C7 1936 West Lakes Shore, SA 0409 096 070

24 March, 2009 Media release 29/09

Pilot program aims to mobilise school children A NEW concept — Part Way is OK — aimed at boosting student participation in active travel by

encouraging them to reach school part of the way under their own steam is being launched tomorrow.

Coinciding with Bicycle Victoria’s Ride2School day and supported by RACV, the pilot program provides primary school students and their parents a structured option for walking or riding part way

to school.

Parents will be encouraged to drop-off and pick-up their children at designated meeting points located

500m to 2km from school, with children urged to travel the residual distance on foot or via bike or

other human-powered means such as scooters or skateboards.

RACV Chief Engineer, Traffic and Transport, Peter Daly, said Part Way is OK was a fantastic idea

that encouraged students, parents and schools to think more about healthy and environmentally

responsible travel options.

“By providing a structured travel option, Part Way is OK aims to overcome barriers such as the

perception that the distance between home and school is too far to ride or walk, or that the journey between home and school is unsafe,” Mr Daly said.

“We’re encouraging parents to actively participate in the pilot program by accompanying younger children to and from the designated meeting areas, while older students may be permitted to travel

unaccompanied.

“Back in the 1980s, eight out of 10 students got themselves to school, but today 80 per cent of school kids are driven. A car is clearly necessary for many trips but it appears many people use their cars for

some shorter distances where cycling or walking might be a better and certainly healthier option.”

Once the pilot is completed, RACV and Ride2School will examine the results to determine if a model

can be developed to allow more schools to roll out the program.

The Part Way is OK pilot takes place on National Ride2School Day tomorrow at selected primary schools in each of the three pilot council areas selected: Knox, Moreland and Greater Geelong.

Media are invited to attend tomorrow morning’s Part Way is OK launch at Knox featuring: • Minister for Sport, Recreation and Youth Affairs, James Merlino

• Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School Principal, Carolyn Macaulay

• RACV Chief Engineer, Traffic and Transport, Peter Daly • Bicycle Victoria CEO, Harry Barber

• Ride2School Events and Communications Manager, Mary Akiki

• Knox City Councillor, Sue McMillan.

Interview/vision opportunities, 8.30am-8.40am, with officials and children at Kings Park car park, off

Willow Rd, Upper Ferntree Gully - Melway Ref. 74 D6.

Interview/vision opportunities, 8.50am, at Upper Ferntree Gully Primary School, Talaskia Rd, Upper

Ferntree Gully – Melway Ref. 74 G6.

Media enquiries: Denis Brown, RACV, xxxx xxx xxx

15 January 2008 Copy for Sunday Herald Sun

8/09

Cannibal victim intact for picnic

A REMARKABLE survivor of motoring’s golden age is one of the star attractions at this year’s RACV Australia Day Picnic and Federation Vehicle Display on Monday, January 26. Now in its 14th big year, RACV’s free, massive community picnic celebrating our national day offers a diverse range of entertainment options and typically attracts up to 80,000 people. The top-billing display vehicle will be a 99-year-old Hupmobile owned by Wattle Glen’s Lyle Drysdale, who spent more than three decades locating parts and restoring the veteran machine. Mr Drysdale’s Hupmobile will be on display at the RACV marquee at the RACV Australia Day Picnic, while another 10 Hupmobiles feature in a special exhibit commemorating the Hupmobile’s centenary at the Federation Vehicle Display. After rolling off the Hup Motor Company of Detroit production line in 1910, Mr Drysdale’s Hupmobile spent about 15 years as a delivery vehicle for a family business ferrying everything from mail to bread and milk between Boort and Kerang. Post-retirement, Mr Drysdale’s uncle, Gordon Crawford, bought the car and drove it for several years until finally laying it to rest in a shearing shed at the family’s farm in Minmindie. “Then in 1948 when I was 10, I decided I needed a dog kennel. So I unbolted the Hupmobile’s body, dragged it to the house and shoved it under the rain water tank,” Mr Drysdale said. “The rest of the car was totally cannibalised; one half of the chassis was used as a manure spreader, the other half as a feed trailer for the pigs. The engine was used to pump dam water and the bonnet eventually became a chook run.” After buying a Model T Ford for a shilling at age 15, Mr Drysdale soon evolved into a motoring buff and by the late 1950s was regretting being the catalyst for the Hupmobile’s cannibalism. “I was living in Melbourne by then and decided to rescue the old Hupmobile, reclaim all the parts from around the farm and restore it; as you can imagine, this took forever,” he said. “My uncle was still living at the farm, so I’d visit and he’d produce a suspension spring he’d found somewhere. At one point I remember ploughing up a meadow to unearth the pedals. As it’s so dry in the Mallee, most of the parts escaped too much rust. “I almost gave up on ever finding the steering column but we did – my father had used it as a gate support. We found the last part in the early ‘70s and I finally finished the restoration in about 1989.” Mr Drysdale’s Hupmobile will be on display at the RACV marquee at the RACV Australia Day Picnic, while another 10 Hupmobiles feature in a special exhibit commemorating the Hupmobile’s centenary at the Federation Vehicle Display.

Meanwhile, picnic goers can look forward to a performance by legendary jazz trumpeter, James Morrison, his band and equally renowned vocalist, Emma Pask, from 12.30-2.30pm. Since his precocious debut, aged just 16 at the iconic Monterey Jazz Festival, Morrison has worked with some of the biggest jazz names in the US, while in Europe he is a regular on the festival and club circuit. As usual, children are well catered for with a plethora of giveaways and roving performers, an animal farm, face painting, mini golf and much more. Proven crowd-pleaser, the flyball competition, will put more than 80 assorted dogs through their paces by testing jumping, catching and retrieving prowess.

• RACV Australia Day Picnic and Federation Vehicle Display, Kings Domain Gardens, Monday, January 26, 10am to 4pm, Melway Ref 2F J10. More details at racv.com.au

• Lyle Drysdale is available for interview/photo opportunity: 9438 3389 or 0407 530 924.

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxxx or xxxx xxx xxx

31 March 2009

31/09

RACV welcomes quick start on vital link

RACV has welcomed today’s announcement by the State Government that it plans to deliver the Frankston Bypass project toll-free and funded via a public/private partnership. The initiative, to be known as the Peninsula Link, will significantly reduce travel times on the Mornington Peninsula and congestion in and around the Frankston area, particularly the bottleneck at the end of the Eastlink route. “We believe that this project is ‘shovel-ready’ and the Brumby Government should waste no time in getting on with what will be a critical traffic-fix for the Mornington Peninsula,” said RACV General Manager, Public Policy, Brian Negus. Mr Negus said RACV was also strongly urging the Federal Government to get behind the vital Victorian infrastructure project and provide additional funding. “It is very pleasing that the State Government has decided to push ahead with constructing this project by means of an ‘Availability Public Private Partnership’ model,” a no-tolls system that RACV has been proposing for some time,” he said. “This would involve a private contractor funding and constructing the bypass then recouping costs from the State Government during a 20 to 30 year contract period based on key performance indicators, including infrastructure maintenance levels and meeting agreed emergency response standards. “In the current economic climate, infrastructure expenditure will also provide a significant kick-start to a slowing economy and a major boost to a flagging employment sector.” RACV media contact, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

16 January 2009

7/09

Rally behind Peter Mac this Sunday

MELBURNIANS are invited to attend the 11th RACV Great Australian Rally this Sunday (18

January), a popular annual fundraiser for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

Thanks to a record attendance at last year’s rally, more than $45,000 was raised for Peter

Mac via vehicle owner entry fees and gate proceeds from the picnic and vehicle display event

at Mornington Racecourse.

This Sunday, almost 700 remarkable vehicles — veteran, vintage and classic — will depart

from the Fox Classic Car Collection, Batman Drive, Docklands at 9am, rendezvous with other vehicles en route then converge on the Mornington Racecourse for an 11am to 3pm display.

Proceeds will help Peter Mac’s Claire Oliver Melanoma Fund. Each year, more than 8,800

Australians are diagnosed with melanoma.

Peter Mac is the only cancer centre in Australia where researchers work directly with clinicians

to provide the latest in cancer treatment for patients.

RACV Great Australian Rally organiser, Colin Brown, urged people to support the family-

orientated event and help raise even more funds than last year’s rally.

“In addition to the picnic and car display, there’s a heap of things to do and see, such as kids’

rides, automotive memorabilia stands with items for sale, live music, food stalls and much

more,” Mr Brown said.

“Motoring buffs will be spoiled for choice at this year’s rally; we’ve put together one of the most

impressive line-up of magnificent motoring machines ever assembled in Victoria representing the evolution of the motor car.”

Some of the more notable golden oldies on display will be an 1896 single-cylinder Benz Velo

— one of only two left in the world — and an early electric car, the 1917 Detroit Electric. Produced from 1907 to 1939, the model was in production longer than any other electric car.

Also on display will be modified production cars, such as Group A Jaguars, Lexus vehicles and a Porsche 911. Other display vehicles will include a selection of Bugattis, steam-powered

vehicles, vintage motorcycles, military vehicles, including a US Sherman tank, and many more

Entry to the Mornington Racecourse (Melway ref 146 B2) event is $10 for adults, free for

children under 14 years.

Colin Brown is available for interview on 0408 343 176 RACV Media Contact: Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

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ANCAP media release, embargoed to 6am, 4 December 2008 166/08 Omega’s star-turn a Christmas bonus for Holden THE Commodore Omega has delivered an early Christmas present to Holden — achieving a five-star safety rating from ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program). The Omega’s five-star-turn follows the five-star safety rating recently achieved by the Ford Falcon XT, the first Australian-made car to achieve the highly desirable five-star milestone. However, despite the Omega sedan’s five stars, other Commodore sedan models will not become eligible for the five-star rating until Holden incorporates a passenger seat-belt reminder warning in their other variants throughout 2009. ANCAP, Australia’s leading, independent, consumer vehicle safety advocate, crash-tests new vehicles and awards them a safety star-rating based on internationally recognised protocols. ANCAP Victorian partners, RACV, VicRoads and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), said it was excellent news that Holden had achieved a five-star rating with the improved Omega model. “Of course it is disappointing that this five-star result does not apply to all Commodore sedan models, but we are confident Holden will address this next year,” the ANCAP Victorian partners said. “There was an issue with the lack of a front passenger seat belt reminder on the Commodore, but Holden has undertaken to incorporate these reminders into their production processes through 2009 to ensure other Commodore variants offer the same levels of protection. “We encourage new car buyers of the variants to make sure these reminders are available when they make their purchase. “Regrettably road-crash fatality statistics show that many drivers and passengers are failing to buckle up and are suffering the consequences.” Other ANCAP crash-test results released today include the Ford Falcon Ute and Honda Jazz, which achieved a four-star rating respectively, while the Nissan Micra car, Nissan Navara D22 4WD and the Isuzu D-Max Utility 2WD and 4WD models all received a three-star rating. The ANCAP Victorian partners described the three-star results as “simply not good enough for consumers”, especially considering the growing number of four and five-star vehicles available. “New car buyers should expect good safety ratings as much as performance, and there is a wide range of four and five-star safety rated vehicles on the Australian market today,” they said.

2

While the four-star Honda Jazz base model with dual airbags performed well in crash tests, the six-airbag variants were not eligible for five stars as they did not have Electronic Stability Control, (ESC), a proven life-saving technology readily available in many new cars. Similarly, while the Falcon Ute performed well in crash tests and ESC is now available, Ford did not elect to submit the ute for the optional side-pole test, to be able to demonstrate five-star performance. “ANCAP is still waiting for the breakthrough of a five-star commercial vehicle so that trades people, couriers and other such vehicle users can have the same level of safety as company executives,” the partners said. The partners were also disappointed with the pedestrian protection levels of tested vehicles. “Unfortunately, pedestrians do not fare well in the latest round of results with the Commodore, the Navara and D-Max 4x4 utility earning one star for pedestrian protection, the Falcon Ute and Micra, two stars and the Honda Jazz, three stars out of a possible four,” they said. “These results are clearly disappointing.” ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, Australian state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian TAC, the Insurance Australia Group and the FIA Foundation. A full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, including commercial vehicles and other vehicle safety information, is available at www.ancap.com.au Media contact: RACV, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

1

ANCAP media release, embargoed to 4am, 17 February 2009 16/09 Crash tests find van drivers’ legs vulnerable

CRASH tests on commercial vans by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has found a high risk of serious injury, particularly to drivers’ legs.

ANCAP Victorian partners, RACV, VicRoads and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), said while safety of some commercial vans had improved, recent crash testing of vans showed that drivers’ legs were vulnerable upon impact.

ANCAP, Australia’s leading consumer vehicle safety advocate, crash-tests new vehicles and awards safety-star ratings based on internationally recognised protocols.

Although there are now several four-star rated vans available, the latest vans tested — the Ford Transit Van and Suzuki APV — achieved three-star safety ratings.

During crash-tests, the Ford Transit Van’s passenger compartment lost integrity in the frontal 64km/h offset test, showing “poor” protection from serious leg injury to the driver, as well as “weak” chest protection for driver and passenger.

The Suzuki APV’s passenger compartment held its shape reasonably well in the same frontal offset test, except for the foot-well, which demonstrated “poor” protection from serious leg injury for the driver.

“As a contrast, ANCAP released four-star ratings for the Mercedes Vito and VW Transporter in 2008, where there was just a slight risk of lower leg injury,” the Victorian ANCAP partners said.

“These four-star vans demonstrate that these types of vehicle can be designed to minimise leg injury.”

The partners said light commercial vans — our cities’ “work horses” — accounted for a large percentage of the nation’s business and fleet purchases, and that ANCAP believed they should be safer.

“Passenger vehicles are now scoring consistent four and five-star safety ratings, which is great news for private motorists and their families, but with so many commercial vehicles being sold in Australia we encourage manufacturers to make these high-use vans more safe,” the partners said.

2

ANCAP has released a range of ratings for light commercial vehicles via ANCAP or EuroNCAP, which incorporates the same crash-testing protocols. These include four-star ratings for the Mercedes Vito, VW Caddy Van and VW Transporter, a three-star rating for the Toyota HiAce and a one-star rating for the Mitsubishi Express.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, Australian state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian TAC, the Insurance Australia Group and the FIA Foundation. A full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, including commercial vehicles and other vehicle safety information, is available at www.ancap.com.au Media contact: RACV, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

1

ANCAP media release, 4 June 2008 76/08

Safety ratings a positive spin for small cars FIVE-star safety is now more affordable after the Mitsubishi Lancer and Hyundai i30,

which cost under $30,000 each, achieved five-star ANCAP crash safety ratings.

ANCAP – the Australasian New Car Assessment Program – crash tests new cars

and awards them a star rating for safety based on internationally recognised

protocols.

The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer rated highly for occupant protection following a series of crash tests – a frontal offset, a side offset and a pole test. The model tested was the

top-specification model, which includes head-protecting side air bags and Electronic

Stability Control (ESC) – both prerequisites for a five-star rating under ANCAP’s

rating methodology. The lower specification Lancer scored four stars.

The Hyundai i30 also includes side curtains and ESC and achieved five stars after a recent modification improved the vehicle’s knee impact area, which ANCAP had

raised as an issue. The i30 will receive the same upgrade. Similar to the Lancer, the

lower specification i30 scored four stars.

ANCAP Victorian partners, RACV, VicRoads and the TAC, said the results indicated the trend towards safer vehicles was now filtering through to the small car market,

making safety a genuine option for new car buyers in this price range.

“What we are now seeing is the provision of the latest vehicle safety features in cars

below $30,000 – which is great news for consumers,” the ANCAP partners said.

ANCAP also announced five-star results from comparative test results under the

European program, EuroNCAP, for the Renault Laguna III and Holden Astra – both with side curtains and ESC – and four-star results for the Kia Rondo with side

curtains, and base-model Ford Focus with chest-protecting side airbags.

ANCAP is now working cooperatively with some manufacturers to assist in the

development of safer cars.

The ANCAP partners congratulated Mitsubishi on results for the Lancer, which scored well in three crash tests, and said it was encouraging to see side curtain

airbags to protect occupants’ heads in the high specification model.

2

However, ANCAP would like to see manufacturers fit curtain airbags and ESC as

standard equipment to all models, bringing these valuable safety features to a wider

range of customers.

Unfortunately, pedestrians do not fare well in the latest round of results. The Lancer,

i30, Laguna and Focus earned two stars out of four for pedestrian protection, and the

Rondo and Astra, one star. Recent discussions between ANCAP and several

manufacturers indicate that improved car-front designs are on the way.

ANCAP crash tests new vehicles, awards them a star rating for safety and publicises the results to the motoring public. ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New

Zealand motoring clubs, Australian state governments, the New Zealand

government, the Victorian TAC, the Insurance Australia Group and the FIA

Foundation.

A full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings and other vehicle safety information is

available at www.ancap.com.au

Media contact: RACV, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

4 December 2007 139/07

Family sedans fare poorly in reversing probe

RACV today praised the increasing number of manufacturers adopting potentially life-saving

reversing camera technology in a bid to reduce the number of children injured in reversing incidents.

RACV’s latest Reversing Visibility Index, which assesses how well a driver can see out the back of a car, has revealed the number of vehicles tested with a reversing camera as a

standard or optional feature has increased from five in 2006 to 15 in 2007.

Car manufacturers Audi, BMW, Ford, Lexus, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Honda all offer reversing cameras as standard or a factory option on some vehicles.

RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, said reversing cameras greatly improved what drivers could see behind their vehicle.

“So it is pleasing to see so many manufacturers starting to adopt the technology, especially on 4WD and luxury vehicles,” Mr Case said.

“However, very few family sedans and smaller vehicles feature the technology and many have

performed poorly in our study.”

He said three out of the four most popular family sedans received a 0 star rating and of the 12

cars that failed to achieve any stars, five were small-medium vehicles.

“This is a real concern because many of these vehicles have hazardous reversing blind areas,

usually caused by high rear window lines and boots,” he said.

“Manufacturers installing GPS systems can add a reversing camera for minimal costs, so we

urge them to offer reversing cameras as standard equipment to help keep small children safe.”

But it was not only new car buyers who could get access to reversing camera technology —

available retail products can be easily retro-fitted to older vehicles that do not feature GPS.

“Retro-fitting reversing cameras can result in improved rear visibility for drivers of many cars

on our road today. A properly-installed camera could in-fact give the driver the same visibility

as a five-star car,” he said.

Mr Case said parents and child carers were reminded that even the best reversing camera

was no substitute for adult supervision of children around cars.

“Tragically, every week a child is run over in their driveway in Australia and these incidents

account for about 10 per cent * of all child pedestrian deaths and injuries,” he said.

“Small children are naturally inquisitive, move surprisingly quickly and can be in unexpected

places so motorists should be extra cautious when reversing anywhere. If children are around,

always ensure an adult is holding the child or put the child securely in the vehicle with you

when manoeuvring in a driveway.”

Page 2

RACV Reversing Visibility Index

The Index has been developed to encourage motorists to compare the safety design features of vehicles. This consumer tool takes into account the visible area and distance across the

rear of the vehicle and whether cameras and sensors have been installed. Results are rated

on a scale of zero to five stars, with a rating of five indicating better reversing visibility than all other vehicles.

Vehicle Class Stars

BMW X5 (5 Door Wagon) - with camera 4WD

Ford Territory (5 Door Wagon) – with camera 4WD

Honda Legend (Sedan) - with camera Luxury

Lexus GS430 (Sedan) - with sensors and camera Luxury

Lexus IS250 (Sedan) - with camera Luxury

Lexus LS460 (Sedan) - with camera Luxury

Toyota Kluger (5 Door Wagon) - with camera 4WD

Vehicle Class Stars

Holden Commodore (Sedan) Large 0

Holden Epica (Sedan) Medium 0

Holden Viva (5 Door Hatch) Small – Medium 0

Honda Civic (Sedan) Small – Medium 0

Honda Odyssey (5 Door Wagon) 4WD 0

Hummer H3 (5 Door Wagon) 4WD 0

Hyundai i30 (5 Door Hatch) Small – Medium 0

Mitsubishi 380 (Sedan) Large 0

Mitsubishi Lancer (Sedan) Small – Medium 0

Toyota Prado (5 Door Wagon) 4WD 0

Toyota Corolla (Sedan) Small - Medium 0

Toyota RAV- 4 (5 Door Wagon) 4WD 0

*www.maa.nsw.gov.au

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs xxxx xxx xxx

19 May 2008

66/08

State-wide congestion probe underway

FRUSTRATED road users are once again being urged to nominate congestion ‘Redspots’

during RACV and Leader Community Newspaper’s Redspot Survey.

The survey, which is run every two years, aims to collect significant feedback from Victorians

who nominate congested road locations or public transport services across the state.

A Redspot can be an intersection or rail crossing, a section of road, a bus or tram stop or a

public transport service, where unexpected or long delays and frustration are experienced.

These congestion-prone locations can affect car and truck drivers, cyclists or motorbike riders,

and the increasing number of people patronising public transport.

Thousands of people participated in the 2006 Redspot Survey, highlighting Redspots

throughout Melbourne and regional areas including Horsham, Omeo, Mildura and Wonthaggi.

Following release of the 2006 survey results, there have been numerous funding announcements totalling more than $135 million by all levels of government to fix problems

flagged by the public.

RACV Chief Engineer Traffic and Transport, Peter Daly, said the Redspot Survey was a rare

opportunity for increasingly frustrated motorists and public transport users to be heard loud

and clear by government.

“Recent RACV research shows 89 per cent of people think that congestion on our roads is

worse than five years ago and 85 per cent believe it's only going to get worse,” Mr Daly said.

“So whether you are stuck in a car, or on a bus or tram that feels like it’s going nowhere fast,

RACV is calling on you to let us know which spots on the road network make you see red.

“RACV transport engineering experts will analyse the results and work with VicRoads, local

councils and the Department of Transport in an effort to resolve the congestion issues that the

public tell us about.”

Participate in the Redspot Survey by completing a survey form in the June edition of

RoyalAuto, visiting www.racv.com.au or an RACV shop or by completing the form published in

Leader newspapers.

The 2008 Redspot Survey runs until Friday, July 4 and the results will be published in

RoyalAuto and Leader newspapers later this year.

“Congestion on our roads is a major frustration to all road users and only seems to be getting

worse,” he said.

“But the Redspot Survey is the chance to have your say, knowing that your vote will count

when it comes to getting improvements.”

Page 2

These are just some of the roads identified in the 2006 Redspot Survey on which work has

begun, or funds have been allocated to improve the situation:

• Pascoe Vale Rd, Somerton Rd or David Munroe Drive in Coolaroo The State Government has announced $3.3 million in funding to upgrade this outdated

roundabout. Traffic lights will be installed to reduce delays with work anticipated to start

soon with completion expected in early 2009.

• Springvale Rd/Maroondah Highway, NunawadingThe Federal Government has acknowledged this problem with $80 million funding conditional on the State Government’s input and $1.5 million allocated to the City of

Whitehorse to commission a report due later this year. RACV is calling on the State

Government to help fund a solution at this much maligned intersection.

• Park Rd/Reserve Rd/Tulip St, CheltenhamIn October 2006, Bayside City Council voted to allocate $155,000 towards funding the

installation of traffic lights but is also seeking VicRoads support through the Black Spot program for the balance of $150,000. The estimated cost of installing traffic lights at these

intersections is $305,000.

• Chandler Highway between Eastern Freeway and Heidelberg Road, KewVicRoads announced $100,000 funding in October 2006 for an investigation of the

Chandler Highway from Princes St to north of Heidelberg Rd.

• Clyde Rd/Enterprise Ave, BerwickIn September 2006, the State Government provided $2 million for a set of traffic lights at

this intersection. The lights have been installed but are not yet operational.

• Bentons Rd/Nepean Highway, Mount MarthaThe State Government installed traffic lights at this intersection at a cost of $1 million. Additional works included some realignment of the intersection and upgrading of

approaches.

• Merri Parade/St Georges Rd/Charles St, NorthcoteIn December 2007, VicRoads invited submissions into proposed improvements at this

intersection. More than 75 per cent of respondents wanted to see traffic lights installed.

VicRoads is now considering a proposal for funding.

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

15 September 2008 122/08

Number one Redspot repeat offender

THE number one 2008 Redspot, the Springvale and Whitehorse roads intersection at Nunawading, is a repeat offender, having taken out pole position in the 2006 Redspot Survey. Reflecting increasing frustration among road users, about 6500 nominations for more than 2500 congestion headaches were lodged during the seven week survey period. Disappointingly, six of the 2008 Redspots, including the much maligned Nunawading site, also made the top 10 on the public’s hate list in the previous Redspot Survey conducted in 2006. While three of these six problem locations have received funding from a mix of government coffers, the 2008 survey results clearly indicate more action is needed to free up traffic flow. RACV Chief Engineer, Traffic and Transport, Peter Daly, said while he was not surprised at the repetitive findings, the results were still “incredibly exasperating”. “The notorious Nunawading intersection is a prime example,” Mr Daly said. “Despite repeated calls from the public to fix it there has been continued inaction by the State Government, even though the Federal Government has promised to contribute $80 million to any solution. “Eastlink was never going to solve the problem; the boom gates at this intersection now stay down longer and more frequently due to the increasing number of trains and patronage as more people opt for public transport in the face of soaring petrol prices. “In fact, six of the top 10 Redspots, including the five repeat offenders, are level crossing sites. While this reflects a welcome increase in train patronage, it also indicates longer boom gate down times and the government dragging its heels on improvements. “There has only been a handful of metro level crossing upgrades conducted in the past decade. We find this grating as RACV has called on the State Government to implement a program to fix as least five metro level crossings every year by separating road and rail lines.” The Redspot Survey, conducted by RACV in partnership with Leader Community Newspapers, which now includes cycling routes and public transport services, was developed to source public feedback about congestion locations that require improvement. Mr Daly said market research commissioned by RACV revealed 89 per cent of motorist respondents believed congestion was worse than five years ago and 85 per cent thought it was only going to get worse. “The latest Redspot Survey backs up these findings, with road users telling us that Victoria’s roads and public transport services simply are not coping,” he said. “The cost of congestion, including delays, unreliable travel times and higher vehicle operating costs, is expected to double by 2020 if left untreated. “RACV calls on all levels of government to fund solutions at congestion hot spots and keep traffic on our roads and trains moving along at an acceptable level.”

Page 2 RACV transport engineers have conducted site inspections at each of the top 10 sites to assess what improvements may be possible to reduce congestion. The survey results will be analysed and provided to VicRoads, the Department of Transport and local councils, with recommendations to take action on these frustrating sites. Top 10 Redspots 2008 1. Springvale Rd/Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading Reported problems: long delays for Springvale Rd traffic at peak periods due to traffic congestion and long delays at the rail crossing. RACV analysis: this notorious intersection has made the top five during the past five surveys. The Federal Government has acknowledged this problem with $80 million funding conditional on the State Government’s input. The City of Whitehorse has been allocated $1.5 million of this amount to commission a report due later this year. While a decrease in traffic volumes are expected due to Eastlink, a welcome growth in public transport patronage and more trains means boom gates will be down longer, minimising the effect of any traffic reduction. RACV calls on the State Government to step up and help fund a solution at this notorious Redspot, which is likely to require grade separation of the railway line — an overpass or underpass. 2. Thompson Rd/Western Port Hwy, Skye Reported problems: delays to through traffic in all directions during peak hours. RACV analysis: this roundabout is an example of inadequate infrastructure in a rapidly developing area. Previous surveys have shown it can take more than 10 minutes to get past the intersection in peak times with queues of up to 300 vehicles. Eastlink may reduce traffic in the area but its impact at this intersection remains to be seen. RACV believes that grade separation of the intersection is necessary and has called for the duplication of Thompson Rd between Dandenong-Frankston Rd and South Gippsland Highway. 3. Murrumbeena Rd/Neerim Rd, Murrumbeena Reported problems: Murrumbeena Rd users reported problems during peak hours due to delays at the railway crossing, poor coordination of traffic lights and traffic congestion. RACV analysis: Murrumbeena Rd is a major north-south road and many trains crossing at this location mean boom gates are down for long periods – often more than six minutes – and lengthy queues of vehicles causing long delays. RACV believes the only solution is to grade separate the railway crossing and the road. 4. Sunbury Rd/Bulla-Diggers Rest Rd, Bulla Reported problems: through-traffic congestion and a reduction in the number of lanes on Sunbury Rd is a major drama in peak hours RACV analysis: a good example of a road that was not designed for the amount of traffic it now carries. VicRoads has developed a proposal to install traffic lights on Bulla-Diggers Rest Rd and build an additional lane on the western approach to improve flow at the roundabout, but the State Government is yet to allocate funding. We welcome plans to install traffic lights, but this will only help in the short term. RACV has called for Sunbury Rd to be duplicated from the Melbourne side of Sunbury to the Tullamarine Freeway, including the roundabout. 5. Burke Rd between Monash Fwy and Malvern Rd, Glen Iris Reported problems: long delays due to the rail crossing at peak and off-peak times. RACV analysis: slow progress of trains crawling through the Burke Rd level crossing creates long delays. It took more than six minutes for vehicles to travel just 400m through the crossing. Boom gates stayed down for extended periods. Minimising boom gate down times may help traffic flow. Peak hour clearways along Burke Rd are expected to alleviate some congestion in the short term but RACV believes grade separation is necessary.

Page 3 6. Chandler Highway between Princes St and Heidelberg Rd, Alphington/Kew Reported problems: Chandler Highway traffic experiences delays during peak hours due to through-traffic congestion and a reduction in the number of traffic lanes at the Yarra River bridge. RACV analysis: this location has featured in many previous Redspot Surveys and is an example of infrastructure struggling to cope with modern traffic demands. Queues at this location form across the bridge and along Chandler Highway for long distances. VicRoads announced $100,000 funding in late 2006 for an investigation of the Chandler Highway from Princes St to Heidelberg Rd and the report will be completed later this year. A second bridge across the river is needed and should have been built years ago.

7. Furlong Rd/St Albans Rd, St Albans Reported problems: delays on Furlong Rd due to through-traffic congestion and delays caused by the railway crossing. Difficulty turning left or right was also noted. RACV analysis: northbound and southbound traffic was observed to flow reasonably well, with delays being observed for eastbound and westbound traffic. VicRoads has modified the line marking and operation of the traffic lights at this location. An additional lane was constructed on the east side of the intersection in 2004. RACV believes the only solution is to grade separate the railway crossing. 8. Glenroy Rd between Pascoe Vale Rd and Wheatsheaf Rd, Glenroy Reported problems: Glenroy Rd traffic reported delays due to through-traffic congestion, delays at the railway crossing and poor coordination of traffic lights. RACV analysis: this Redspot has a very complex layout, with a number of intersections and railway crossing in close proximity to a shopping precinct. VicRoads completed works in May 2008 to link the railway crossing and two adjacent signalised intersections to improve traffic flow. The operation of these initiatives is still being fine-tuned in consultation with rail authorities. RACV believes the only solution is to grade separate the railway crossing. 9. Reserve Rd and Park Rd/Tulip St, Cheltenham Reported problems: Problems reported for all directions of traffic, with right turns being the most nominated problem, followed by left turns and through-traffic congestion. RACV analysis: poor sight distance makes it difficult to exit from Park Rd and Tulip St into Reserve Rd. The Federal Government announced Black Spot funding for the site in August 2008. Traffic lights will be installed and RACV believes this will reduce reported problems and improve safety at these intersections. 10. Blackburn Rd between Chapel St and Central Rd, Blackburn Reported problems: delays generally affect northbound traffic in peak hours but were also reported for southbound traffic. The main concerns were through-traffic congestion and long delays at the railway crossing. RACV analysis: this Redspot comprises a complex set of intersections and a level crossing, all within 100m and running through the heart of a retail and office precinct. Trains arrive frequently and boom gates are often down, causing the most noticeable delay to traffic flow. There is no obvious solution to fixing the congestion, however better coordination of trains arriving at the level crossing and minimising boom gate downtime may help. Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

1

Tuesday, 22 July 2008

Study shows safer used vehicles affordable SAFER motoring does not necessarily mean big bucks, according to results of the 2008 Used Car Safety Ratings (UCSR), the largest such study in the world.

Findings indicate that for just $5000 consumers can buy a second-hand vehicle providing a high level of crash protection to occupants and other road users.

The annual UCSR study is conducted by the Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), with support from RACV, the TAC, VicRoads, other state and federal road authorities and motoring clubs.

The MUARC team analysed data from more than 3.2 million crashes in Australia and New Zealand between 1986 and 2006 involving 349 different vehicle types.

Results across categories ranging from small to family, commercial and 4WD are presented in a user-friendly brochure and enable motorists to check the rating of their current car or any vehicle they are considering buying.

Dr Stuart Newstead, Senior Researcher at MUARC, said the good news for consumers on a tight budget was that the best performing vehicles were predominantly in the medium and small vehicle classes.

“However, as we’ve seen with previous year’s results, very few commercial vehicles, either large 4WDs or light vehicles, scored well, which remains a big concern given these vehicles continued popularity,” Dr Newstead said.

“In fact, only one of the commercial vans, the Ford Transit from 2001 to 2006, rated above average.

“Equally concerning is that the results also show significant gaps in crash performance; for example, the worst-rating vehicle (Daihatsu Rocky 1985-98) presented more than eight times the risk of death or serious injury to people in a crash than best-rated vehicles such as the VW Golf/Jetta (2004-2006).

“Our findings showed 89 vehicle models scoring better than average, with 26 of these models scoring much better than average.”

2

Dr Newstead said while previous year’s ratings assessed how well a vehicle protected occupants and other road users in a crash, separately, the 2008 UCSR reflected these aspects in a combined performance rating.

“We’ve introduced the new ratings system to express the relative performance of each vehicle in preventing death or serious injury to everyone involved in a crash – not just the occupants of the rated vehicle, but cyclists, pedestrians and occupants of other vehicles,” he said.

Unlike results from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), which are determined by controlled crash testing, the Used Car Safety Ratings are calculated using data from actual crashes.

RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, said the latest UCSR results sent a crystal clear message to motorists considering buying a used car. “If everyone was driving vehicles in the category providing the highest level of injury protection in a crash, a dramatic reduction in the road toll is likely,” he said. TAC Senior Manager Road Safety, David Healy, said the UCSR results were based on real-world crash performance. “For anyone in the market for a used car, these ratings are a vital guide for buying your next car. Don’t hesitate to choose one of the best rated models to help keep you and others safe on the road,” he said. VicRoads Acting Director of Vehicle Management and Safety, Ross McArthur, said VicRoads strongly endorsed the USCR study that would benefit all road users. “This initiative compliments VicRoads’ activities across the state and we are proud to be involved with a study that demonstrates global best practice in assessing the safety of all used cars,” he said. Some of the safest vehicles in the 2008 UCSR include:

Class Vehicle Year Starting price Small Peugeot 306 1994 to 2001 $5,000 VW Golf 1999 to 2004 $10,000 Mazda 3 2003 to 2006 $13,500 Medium Holden Vectra 1997 to 2003 $5,000 VW Passat 1998 to 2005 $15,000 SAAB 9-3 1998 to 2002 $13,000 Subaru Liberty 1999 to 2003 $12,000 Mazda 6 2002 to 2006 $12,000 Commercial Van Ford Transit 2001 to 2005 $15,000 People Mover Mitsubishi Nimbus 1999 to 2003 $9,000 Compact 4WD Honda CRV 1997 to 2001 $8,000 Subaru Forester 1997 to 2002 $7,000

3

The UCSR cover the most popular passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles from about five to 20 years old, the average lifetime of a used vehicle.

Dr Newstead said European and Japanese designs dominated the best performers and although some large Australian-made cars scored above average on total safety, only one was in the best category.

“Pre-1995 models again dominated the worst performers in each class, although some relatively new vehicles such as Hyundai Getz models from 2002 to 2006 also performed poorly,” he said.

Since the UCSR study was first conducted by MUARC in 1990, it has grown to become the largest of its type in the world. Ratings incorporating New Zealand crash data were produced for the first time in 2004. Media contacts: Denis Brown, RACV, xxxx xxx xxx Amanda Bavin, TAC, xxxx xxx xxx 2008 UCSR - Best Performing Vehicles Subaru Forester 97-02 4WD - Compact

Honda CR-V 97-01 4WD - Compact

Ford Explorer 01-05 4WD - Large

Mercedes Benz M-Class W163 98-05 4WD - Large

Mitsubishi Pajero NM / NP / NS 00-06 4WD - Medium

Jeep Cherokee KJ 01-04 4WD - Medium

Ford Transit 01-06 Commercial - Van

Holden Commodore VY/VZ 02-06 Large

Mazda 6 02-06 Medium

Subaru Liberty / Legacy / Outback 99-03 Medium

BMW 5 Series E39 96-03 Medium

Saab 9000 86-97 Medium

Saab 900/9-3 94-02 Medium

Peugeot 406 96-04 Medium

Honda Accord Euro 03-06 Medium

Mercedes Benz C-Class W203 00-06 Medium

Mitsubishi Nimbus 99-03 People Mover

Volkswagen Golf / Bora 99-04 Small

Mazda 3 03-06 Small

Peugeot 306 94-01 Small

Volkswagen Golf / Jetta 04-06 Small

Peugeot 307 01-06 Small

Subaru Impreza 01-06 Small

4

Mazda MX5 / Eunos Roadster 98-05 Small

Citroen BX 86-94 Small

Volkswagen New Beetle 00-06 Small 2008 UCSR - Worst Performing Vehicles

Daihatsu Rocky / Rugger 85-98 4WD - Compact

Toyota Landcruiser 82-89 4WD - Large

Holden / Isuzu Rodeo / Pickup 89-95 Commercial - Ute

Subaru Brumby 82-92 Commercial - Ute

Suzuki Mighty Boy 85-88 Commercial - Ute

Toyota Hiace/Liteace 87-89 Commercial - Van

Toyota Hiace/Liteace 90-95 Commercial - Van

Daihatsu Handivan 82-90 Commercial - Van

Holden / Suzuki Scurry / Carry 82-00 Commercial - Van

Toyota Hiace/Liteace 82-86 Commercial - Van

Daihatsu Hi-Jet 82-90 Commercial - Van

Toyota Supra 82-90 Large

Holden / Suzuki Barina / Swift / Cultus 86-88 Light

Daihatsu Charade 82-86 Light

Honda City 83-86 Light

Mitsubishi Mirage / Colt 82-88 Light

Subaru Sherpa / Fiori / 700 / Rex 89-92 Light

Daihatsu Mira 90-96 Light

Hyundai Getz 02-06 Light

Suzuki Alto 85-00 Light

Holden Camira 82-89 Medium

Mitsubishi Starion 82-87 Medium

Toyota Tarago 83-89 People Mover

Mitsubishi Starwagon / L300 83-86 People Mover

Ford / Mazda Laser / 323 / Familia 82-88 Small

Holden / Nissan Astra / Pulsar / Langley 84-86 Small

Honda Civic / Ballade / Shuttle 84-87 Small

Hyundai Excel 86-90 Small

Nissan NX/NX-R 91-96 Small

Nissan Exa 83-86 Small

Mitsubishi Cordia 83-87 Small

25 June 2008

87/08

Getz cheapest to run two years on the trot

KOREAN manufacturer Hyundai has come up trumps again in the 2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs Survey, with models rated the cheapest to run in two of the nine categories. While the Hyundai i30 SX CRDi turbo diesel at $151.55 per week was the cheapest Small Car to run – 53 cents less than its petrol counterpart – the Hyundai Getz S, at $122.83 per week, was the cheapest Light Car. The result is a repeat performance for the Hyundai Getz, which took out the cheapest car slot in the 2007 Vehicle Operating Costs survey. This year’s Getz costs $6.29 more a week to run than last year’s winning Getz model. RACV engineers crunched the numbers with 60 vehicles and found running costs had jumped an average 7 per cent compared to the 2007 survey. This result included the soaring cost of fuel and a 4 per cent average increase in the cost of tyres, servicing and insurance. Despite perception that diesel is fading fast as a viable option for cheaper motoring, three diesel vehicles – Hyundai i30 SX CRDi, Nissan Patrol DX and Ford Ranger XL – proved to be cheapest in their respective classes. Although the study found that on average it cost 4.7 per cent more to run a diesel version of the same model, this was typically due to the diesel option not being available on cheaper base models, rather than higher fuel costs. RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, said while Toyota had made significant improvements to its’ Landcruiser GXL turbo-diesel, the 4WD retained its survey placing as the most expensive car to run for the third consecutive year. “We calculated that the Landcruiser would cost more than $400 a week to own and run, which is more than it would cost you to run a Toyota Corolla and a Hilux 4x4 together,” Mr Case said. “Another surprising result was that the four-cylinder Subaru Liberty 2.5i at $233.30 per week in the Medium Car category cost more to run than a six-cylinder Aurion AT-X, which cost $7.10 less in the Large Car category. “The Aurion AT-X was also found to be the most affordable family car at $226.20 per week, an increase of $25.76 per week compared to last year’s category leader, the Mitsubishi 380 ES. “Unlike last year’s results, Holden’s Commodore fared marginally better than its’ arch rival, the Ford Falcon, with $239.44 weekly running costs compared to the Falcon’s $242.47.” Since the 2007 survey, the running costs of a Falcon had increased 5.8 per cent or $13.34 a week, while the Commodore’s running costs went up by only 2.6 per cent or $6.04 per week. Mr Case said the only six-cylinder in the Medium Car category – the Holden Epica CDX – turned out to be the cheapest in that category, despite being up against four-cylinder cars traditionally perceived to be less expensive to run.

Page 2

“Interestingly we found that the four-cylinder Toyota Tarago cost nearly $20 a week more to run than a Kluger and almost $40 more than a Ford Territory, both two-wheel drive model variants. However, these findings reflect the Tarago’s higher purchase price rather than increased fuel costs,” he said. Survey results for hybrid vehicles found that drivers contemplating reducing their carbon footprints may suffer collateral damage to their hip pockets. The Honda Civic hybrid, for example, cost $22.93 more to run than its VTi sibling, while the Toyota Prius cost nearly $50 more than a Corolla Ascent and about $5 more than a Camry Altise. “This discrepancy in running costs can be attributed to the higher purchase cost of hybrid vehicles, combined with higher servicing costs,” he said. Engineers assessed running costs of three LPG models - the Ford FG Falcon ute, Ford FG Falcon XT and Holden Commodore Omega - but only the Falcon ute was found to be cheapest in its category — the new Commercial 4x2 category — at $199.72 per week. “We found some financial benefits with factory-fitted LPG vehicles compared to petrol-equivalent models by the same manufacturer, although the choice of LPG vehicles is disappointingly limited to the large car market,” he said. Mr Case said two categories, People Movers and Medium SUVs, had been merged into one category for this year’s survey, reflecting the consumer trend for seven-seat family cars. “We had some interesting results with medium SUVs where the 4WD versions cost owners nearly $20 a week more on average to run than the 2WD variants,” he said. “Meanwhile, in the Small SUV category, only $7.46 per week separated the cheapest model, the Honda CRV, and the most expensive, the Nissan X-Trail ST. However the cost of the CRV increased 5 per cent or $10.22 to $214.08 per week compared to the 2007 result.” RACV calculations for the Vehicle Operating Costs Survey are based on a five-year ownership period and average operating conditions for private motorists, including an annual driving distance of 15,000km. The data was collated during May and April, 2008. Results of the 2008 and 2007 surveys are available at racv.com.au

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

• see next page for 2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results

Page 3

2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results Light $/week Hyundai Getz S 1.4L 3dr man $122.83 Holden Barina 1.6L 3dr man $131.12 Toyota Yaris YR 1.3L 3dr man $131.67 Kia Rio LX 1.4L 5dr man $132.69 Suzuki Swift EZ 1.5L 5dr man $132.92 Mazda Mazda2 Neo 1.5L 5dr man $142.04 Volkswagen Polo Club 1.4L 3dr man $143.33 Volkswagen Polo TDI 1.9L 5dr man (diesel) $157.37 Small Hyundai i30 SX CRDi 1.6L 5dr auto (diesel) $151.55 Hyundai i30 SX 2.0L 5dr auto $152.08 Honda Civic VTi 1.8L 4dr auto $162.12 Honda Civic Hybrid 1.4L auto $185.05 Holden Astra CD 1.8L 5dr auto $162.43 Holden Astra CDTi 1.9L 5dr auto (diesel) $186.97 Ford Focus CL 2.0L 5dr auto $162.72 Ford Focus TDCi 2.0L 5dr man (diesel) $173.55 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 2.0L 4dr auto $164.04 Toyota Corolla Ascent 1.8L 5dr auto $164.91 Toyota Prius Hybrid 1.5L 5dr auto $211.19 Mazda Mazda3 Neo 2.0L 5dr auto $169.80 Mazda Mazda3 Diesel 2.0L 5dr man $185.68 Medium Holden Epica CDX 2.5L 4dr auto $196.27 Ford Mondeo LX 2.3L 4dr auto $205.01 Ford Mondeo TDCi 2.0L 4dr auto (diesel) $230.00 Toyota Camry Altise 2.4L 4dr auto $205.50 Mazda Mazda6 Ltd 2.5L 4dr auto $211.20 Honda Accord Euro 2.4L 4dr auto $225.99 Subaru Liberty 2.5i 2.5L 4dr auto $233.30 Large Toyota Aurion AT-X 3.5L 4dr auto $226.20 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 4dr auto $239.44 Holden Commodore Omega Dual Fuel 3.6L 4dr auto $237.77 Ford FG Falcon XT 4.0L 4dr auto $242.47 Ford FG Falcon XT 4.0L LPG 4dr auto $228.74 Compact SUV Honda CRV 2.4L 5dr auto $214.08 Subaru Forester 2.5L 5dr auto $217.92 Toyota RAV4 CV 2.4L 5dr auto $219.05 Nissan X-Trail ST 2.5L 5dr auto $221.54 Medium SUV/7-Seaters Kia Carnival EX 2.7L 5dr auto $229.90 Honda Odyssey 2.4L 5dr auto $239.36 Ford Territory TX 4.0L 5dr auto $245.76 Ford Territory TX AWD 4.0L 5dr auto $266.39 Holden Captiva CX 2.0L 5dr auto (diesel) $247.82 Holden Captiva CX 3.2L 5dr auto $251.97 Toyota Kluger KX-R 3.5L 5dr auto $263.53 Toyota Kluger KX-R (4x4) 3.5L 5dr auto $284.70 Toyota Tarago GLi 2.4L 5dr auto $283.18

See over . . .

Page 4

2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results Large SUV Nissan Patrol DX 3.0L 5dr auto (diesel) $309.36 Nissan Patrol ST-L 4.8L 5dr auto $360.76 Toyota Landcruiser GXL 4.7L 5dr Auto $382.89 Toyota Landcruiser GXL 4.5L 5dr Auto (diesel) $401.53 Commercial 4x2 Ford FG Falcon LPG 4.0L 2dr ute auto $199.72 Ford FG Falcon 4.0L 2dr ute auto $215.96 Ford FG Falcon 4.0L 2dr ute man $213.56 Toyota Hilux SR 4.0L 2dr ute man $200.25 Toyota Hilux SR 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $208.94 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 2dr ute auto $204.45 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 2dr ute man $204.84 Commercial 4x4 Ford Ranger XL 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $219.44 Mitsubishi Triton GLX 3.5L 2dr ute man $224.51 Toyota Hilux SR (4x4) 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $232.89

25 June 2008

87/08

Getz cheapest to run two years on the trot

KOREAN manufacturer Hyundai has come up trumps again in the 2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs Survey, with models rated the cheapest to run in two of the nine categories. While the Hyundai i30 SX CRDi turbo diesel at $151.55 per week was the cheapest Small Car to run – 53 cents less than its petrol counterpart – the Hyundai Getz S, at $122.83 per week, was the cheapest Light Car. The result is a repeat performance for the Hyundai Getz, which took out the cheapest car slot in the 2007 Vehicle Operating Costs survey. This year’s Getz costs $6.29 more a week to run than last year’s winning Getz model. RACV engineers crunched the numbers with 60 vehicles and found running costs had jumped an average 7 per cent compared to the 2007 survey. This result included the soaring cost of fuel and a 4 per cent average increase in the cost of tyres, servicing and insurance. Despite perception that diesel is fading fast as a viable option for cheaper motoring, three diesel vehicles – Hyundai i30 SX CRDi, Nissan Patrol DX and Ford Ranger XL – proved to be cheapest in their respective classes. Although the study found that on average it cost 4.7 per cent more to run a diesel version of the same model, this was typically due to the diesel option not being available on cheaper base models, rather than higher fuel costs. RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, said while Toyota had made significant improvements to its’ Landcruiser GXL turbo-diesel, the 4WD retained its survey placing as the most expensive car to run for the third consecutive year. “We calculated that the Landcruiser would cost more than $400 a week to own and run, which is more than it would cost you to run a Toyota Corolla and a Hilux 4x4 together,” Mr Case said. “Another surprising result was that the four-cylinder Subaru Liberty 2.5i at $233.30 per week in the Medium Car category cost more to run than a six-cylinder Aurion AT-X, which cost $7.10 less in the Large Car category. “The Aurion AT-X was also found to be the most affordable family car at $226.20 per week, an increase of $25.76 per week compared to last year’s category leader, the Mitsubishi 380 ES. “Unlike last year’s results, Holden’s Commodore fared marginally better than its’ arch rival, the Ford Falcon, with $239.44 weekly running costs compared to the Falcon’s $242.47.” Since the 2007 survey, the running costs of a Falcon had increased 5.8 per cent or $13.34 a week, while the Commodore’s running costs went up by only 2.6 per cent or $6.04 per week. Mr Case said the only six-cylinder in the Medium Car category – the Holden Epica CDX – turned out to be the cheapest in that category, despite being up against four-cylinder cars traditionally perceived to be less expensive to run.

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“Interestingly we found that the four-cylinder Toyota Tarago cost nearly $20 a week more to run than a Kluger and almost $40 more than a Ford Territory, both two-wheel drive model variants. However, these findings reflect the Tarago’s higher purchase price rather than increased fuel costs,” he said. Survey results for hybrid vehicles found that drivers contemplating reducing their carbon footprints may suffer collateral damage to their hip pockets. The Honda Civic hybrid, for example, cost $22.93 more to run than its VTi sibling, while the Toyota Prius cost nearly $50 more than a Corolla Ascent and about $5 more than a Camry Altise. “This discrepancy in running costs can be attributed to the higher purchase cost of hybrid vehicles, combined with higher servicing costs,” he said. Engineers assessed running costs of three LPG models - the Ford FG Falcon ute, Ford FG Falcon XT and Holden Commodore Omega - but only the Falcon ute was found to be cheapest in its category — the new Commercial 4x2 category — at $199.72 per week. “We found some financial benefits with factory-fitted LPG vehicles compared to petrol-equivalent models by the same manufacturer, although the choice of LPG vehicles is disappointingly limited to the large car market,” he said. Mr Case said two categories, People Movers and Medium SUVs, had been merged into one category for this year’s survey, reflecting the consumer trend for seven-seat family cars. “We had some interesting results with medium SUVs where the 4WD versions cost owners nearly $20 a week more on average to run than the 2WD variants,” he said. “Meanwhile, in the Small SUV category, only $7.46 per week separated the cheapest model, the Honda CRV, and the most expensive, the Nissan X-Trail ST. However the cost of the CRV increased 5 per cent or $10.22 to $214.08 per week compared to the 2007 result.” RACV calculations for the Vehicle Operating Costs Survey are based on a five-year ownership period and average operating conditions for private motorists, including an annual driving distance of 15,000km. The data was collated during May and April, 2008. Results of the 2008 and 2007 surveys are available at racv.com.au from 6am today under the ‘My Car’ tab. A full report appears in the July edition of RoyalAuto. RACV spokesperson: RACV Chief Engineer – Vehicles, Michael Case, xxxx xxx xxx Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxxx or xxxx xxx xxx

• see next page for 2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results

Page 3

2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results Light $/week Hyundai Getz S 1.4L 3dr man $122.83 Holden Barina 1.6L 3dr man $131.12 Toyota Yaris YR 1.3L 3dr man $131.67 Kia Rio LX 1.4L 5dr man $132.69 Suzuki Swift EZ 1.5L 5dr man $132.92 Mazda Mazda2 Neo 1.5L 5dr man $142.04 Volkswagen Polo Club 1.4L 3dr man $143.33 Volkswagen Polo TDI 1.9L 5dr man (diesel) $157.37 Small Hyundai i30 SX CRDi 1.6L 5dr auto (diesel) $151.55 Hyundai i30 SX 2.0L 5dr auto $152.08 Honda Civic VTi 1.8L 4dr auto $162.12 Honda Civic Hybrid 1.4L auto $185.05 Holden Astra CD 1.8L 5dr auto $162.43 Holden Astra CDTi 1.9L 5dr auto (diesel) $186.97 Ford Focus CL 2.0L 5dr auto $162.72 Ford Focus TDCi 2.0L 5dr man (diesel) $173.55 Mitsubishi Lancer ES 2.0L 4dr auto $164.04 Toyota Corolla Ascent 1.8L 5dr auto $164.91 Toyota Prius Hybrid 1.5L 5dr auto $211.19 Mazda Mazda3 Neo 2.0L 5dr auto $169.80 Mazda Mazda3 Diesel 2.0L 5dr man $185.68 Medium Holden Epica CDX 2.5L 4dr auto $196.27 Ford Mondeo LX 2.3L 4dr auto $205.01 Ford Mondeo TDCi 2.0L 4dr auto (diesel) $230.00 Toyota Camry Altise 2.4L 4dr auto $205.50 Mazda Mazda6 Ltd 2.5L 4dr auto $211.20 Honda Accord Euro 2.4L 4dr auto $225.99 Subaru Liberty 2.5i 2.5L 4dr auto $233.30 Large Toyota Aurion AT-X 3.5L 4dr auto $226.20 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 4dr auto $239.44 Holden Commodore Omega Dual Fuel 3.6L 4dr auto $237.77 Ford FG Falcon XT 4.0L 4dr auto $242.47 Ford FG Falcon XT 4.0L LPG 4dr auto $228.74 Compact SUV Honda CRV 2.4L 5dr auto $214.08 Subaru Forester 2.5L 5dr auto $217.92 Toyota RAV4 CV 2.4L 5dr auto $219.05 Nissan X-Trail ST 2.5L 5dr auto $221.54 Medium SUV/7-Seaters Kia Carnival EX 2.7L 5dr auto $229.90 Honda Odyssey 2.4L 5dr auto $239.36 Ford Territory TX 4.0L 5dr auto $245.76 Ford Territory TX AWD 4.0L 5dr auto $266.39 Holden Captiva CX 2.0L 5dr auto (diesel) $247.82 Holden Captiva CX 3.2L 5dr auto $251.97 Toyota Kluger KX-R 3.5L 5dr auto $263.53 Toyota Kluger KX-R (4x4) 3.5L 5dr auto $284.70 Toyota Tarago GLi 2.4L 5dr auto $283.18

See over . . .

Page 4

2008 RACV Vehicle Operating Costs survey results Large SUV Nissan Patrol DX 3.0L 5dr auto (diesel) $309.36 Nissan Patrol ST-L 4.8L 5dr auto $360.76 Toyota Landcruiser GXL 4.7L 5dr Auto $382.89 Toyota Landcruiser GXL 4.5L 5dr Auto (diesel) $401.53 Commercial 4x2 Ford FG Falcon LPG 4.0L 2dr ute auto $199.72 Ford FG Falcon 4.0L 2dr ute auto $215.96 Ford FG Falcon 4.0L 2dr ute man $213.56 Toyota Hilux SR 4.0L 2dr ute man $200.25 Toyota Hilux SR 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $208.94 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 2dr ute auto $204.45 Holden Commodore Omega 3.6L 2dr ute man $204.84 Commercial 4x4 Ford Ranger XL 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $219.44 Mitsubishi Triton GLX 3.5L 2dr ute man $224.51 Toyota Hilux SR (4x4) 3.0L 2dr ute man (diesel) $232.89

27 June 2008

91/08

Salvos mobilise with RACV partnership

RACV has entered a one-year community partnership with The Salvation Army Australia

Southern Territory to help Victorian communities in need by supporting the Operation Living

Waters drought relief project.

The partnership involves in-kind assistance as well as $80,000 funding to contribute to the

building and fit-out of a resource trailer and the cost of a truck to tow the trailer.

The Salvation Army and RACV will unveil the new mobile resource trailer — which has been

designed for drought recovery community work in northern and western Victoria — at 11am today (Friday, 27 June) at The Salvation Army Corps, Gravel Hill, 65-71 Mundy St, Bendigo.

This exciting new facility has all bases covered; a kitchen, ample space for onboard activities

and is crammed with resources for young people, such as computers and games, LCD TV, craft materials, sports and first aid equipment.

Staffed by a qualified youth worker, the trailer will visit drought-affected towns to undertake community and school-based activities. It can also double as a fully-equipped mobile office.

The Salvation Army’s drought relief coordinator, Major Lyn Cochrane, said the trailer would be a fantastic activity centre for young people and provide a focal point for community

engagement.

“It will enable us to move into drought-stricken Victorian communities at a grass roots level with the latest technology and equipment to develop much-needed support programs,” Major

Cochrane said.

“We are extremely pleased that RACV has joined us on the front line to help us make a

marked difference to the lives of individuals and families in these hard-hit regional areas.”

The Salvation Army has been operating in Australia for 125 years, offering a broad range of services to those in need in the community, including a drought relief role in northern Victoria

for more than five years.

The Operation Living Waters project has been specifically designed to boost the capacity of

families to survive and to help keep the lives of children as normal as possible in these difficult

times. Aspects of the project include assistance with domestic water bills, education expenses, food vouchers and parcels.

RACV President and Chairman, John Isaac, said RACV was honoured and proud to be

supporting The Salvation Army with such a worthwhile cause in 2008.

“Many RACV members come from regional areas of Victoria and this is yet another way in

which their membership is helping those in need within their own communities,” he said.

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

9 September 2008

119/08

Outer metro transport fix critical

CONSTRUCTION of critical new roads now by the private sector and funded by the State Government based on vehicle patronage over 20 to 30 years is the way to go, says RACV. RACV today released its Outer Melbourne Connect blueprint detailing specific road, rail and public transport projects that are required sooner rather than later in outer Melbourne. Connect is one of the key initiatives included in RACV’s comprehensive Melbourne Transport Plan submission to the Eddington East West Link Report. RACV Public Policy General Manager, Brian Negus, said the State Government had heeded RACV’s call in 2002 to invest $112 million a year to address a huge backlog of vital roads. “But unfortunately this has only scratched the surface and we’re now at breaking point, so an innovative approach to how roads are built or funded is now required,” Mr Negus said. Connect lists new road, rail and public transport projects, including 85 arterial road projects across outer Melbourne totalling $3.2 billion, suburbs needing new or expanded bus services, and level crossings requiring grade separation. “RACV believes the State Government has tried its best but now the private sector needs to get involved in building roads in Melbourne’s fastest growing areas before it’s too late,” he said. “We believe the State Government should first seek Federal funding for the appropriate road and public transport projects before delivering the remainder of the backlog with an ongoing program of works through the private sector. “These works could be built within about five years and paid for via ‘shadow tolls’, a system used overseas but new to Australia, where a private contractor constructs roads then recoups costs from government during a 20 to 30 year period based on vehicle usage of roads . “Let me make this crystal clear: a shadow tax is not an extra tax, in fact there would be no additional charge to motorists using these new roads.” Connect is an update of RACV’s 2002 Missing Links report that identified 74 critical road and public transport projects and $2.2 billion investment desperately needed to service rapidly expanding outer Melbourne. Since then, only half of these projects have been built or had funds assigned, with the remainder still missing while strong population and economic growth has put further pressure on Melbourne’s transport system and the backlog has now increased dramatically. “Six years since Missing Links the transport disparity between outer and inner Melbourne continues to get wider,” he said.

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“Ironically, the catalyst for Missing Links was recognition that the city was set to boom and we wanted to ensure that new residents and their transport needs would not be put on the back burner by government. “Now more than ever, rapid growth and corresponding congestion demonstrate the urgency to complete unfinished projects.” Every week another 1,200 people call Melbourne home, with half of the population living in outer suburbs. The State Government - which plans to fast-track residential development of 90,000 land blocks in outer Melbourne’s growth corridor - estimates the city will be the nation’s largest within 20 years. RACV-commissioned research conducted this year showed 86 per cent of Victorians believed upgrades to outer Melbourne roads were needed now or, at the latest, in the next few years. “Outer Melburnians are increasingly choosing to work closer to home, and many industries have relocated to the middle and outer suburbs to benefit from the ready land supply and growing workforce,” he said. “The car remains the main mode of transport for outer Melburnians and cross-town bus services remain inadequate to service the community. “Meanwhile there are more trains on the rail network causing boom gates to stay down longer and more frequently, demonstrating the need for grade separation of rail and road via underpasses or overpasses.” RACV had called on the State Government to grade-separate at least five level crossings each year to address safety and congestion issues. Mr Negus said RACV now called on the State Government to adopt the Outer Melbourne Connect blueprint and the shadow toll funding concept. “If the Government acts proactively, we could potentially complete 30 years worth of much needed infrastructure in as little as five years,” he said. “We simply cannot afford another 20 years of drip feeding only a handful of improvements each year.” � View the Outer Melbourne Connect report at: http://www.racv.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/Internet/Primary/road+safety/roads+%26+traffic/improving+victorian+roads/outer+melbourne+connect/ Media contact, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

9 October 2008

138/08

Probe reveals risky driving business

A DISTURBING number of young drivers may be engaging in very risky business on our

roads, according to results of a recent RACV survey.

The Young Victorian Driving Experience Survey, conducted through RACV’s free2go website

and RoyalAuto received submissions from 664 respondents aged 16 to 20 years.

Part of the survey involved asking participants if they had witnessed risky behaviour by a

driver under age 25 while travelling in a car as a passenger during the past three months.

While 31 per cent said they had seen their driver composing and sending a mobile phone text

message, 34 per cent also reported seeing the driver talking on a hand-held phone.

More than half of the respondents also said they had been in a car driven by someone under

age 25 who was knowingly speeding.

RACV Road User Team Manager, Thanuja Gunatillake, said while the majority of young drivers appeared to be doing the right thing, the mobile phone use findings were a serious

concern.

“Research shows that talking on a mobile phone handset can impact on a driver’s decision-

making processes and the ability to maintain speed and position on the road,” Ms Gunatillake

said.

“And when you factor in speed, it really is an accident waiting to happen, one that could

involve serious injury or even multiple fatalities. Speeding is one of the major contributing

factors to crashes on Victoria’s roads.”

Ms Gunatillake said she was concerned by the survey results but not particularly surprised as

previous research involving older and more experienced drivers found as many as one in three drivers admitted to having used a hand-held mobile phone while driving.

“This latest survey indicates that many young drivers are not taking the risks of using mobile

phones and speeding while driving seriously, and are putting their lives and the lives of their passengers at risk,” she said.

“It is also worrying that young passengers are either not aware of the risks or that they are and perhaps do not feel comfortable enough to say something about it when they see a driver

doing the wrong thing.”

Under a revamp of Victorian licensing rules, all mobile phone use, including hands-free or

texting, was banned for learner drivers from July 2007 and for P1 drivers from July 1 this year.

P2 drivers however, are permitted to use hands-free mobile kits while driving.

Ms Gunatillake said statistics showed young drivers were most at risk as soon as they

obtained a probationary licence, and in the first year of driving, the risk of crashing was three

times higher than an experienced driver.

Page 2

Drivers between age 18 and 25 comprised about 15 per cent of Victoria’s driving population

but accounted for nearly 30 per cent of fatalities and serious injuries.

“RACV urges parents to take every effort to ensure their children are aware of the risks that

they might be taking, either as a driver or passenger,” she said.

Good news emerging from the survey was that an overwhelming number of respondents said

they had not been driven by an under-25-year-old who was under the influence of alcohol (87 per cent) or illegal drugs (97 per cent).

Learners and P-plate drivers are encouraged to take advantage of RACV’s free2go initiative, a

motoring assistance program developed especially for young Victorians new to the road.

The free2go website is an invaluable resource tool for learner or P-plate drivers and is packed

with helpful advice about getting a licence, buying a car, road safety tips and more.

Available to all Victorians aged 18 to 20, as well as Year 12 students, free2go offers all the

benefits of RACV membership and includes Emergency Roadside Assistance.

Joining free2go is completely free for 18 year olds and Year 12 students, and for 19 and 20

year olds, membership comes with Roadside Care for only half price.

visit the free2go website — www.free2go.racv.com.au

RACV media contact: Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

Strictly embargoed to 1pm, 20 March

20 March 2007

40/07

Wake-up call for young drowsy drivers

RACV rolled into Gippsland today to deliver a wake-up call to young motorists about the grave danger of drowsy driving. While one quarter of all road deaths are associated with driving while tired, recent RACV research reveals that sleep deprivation among young drivers makes them a high-risk group. During the past five years in regional Victoria, 18 to 25 year olds comprised 23 per cent of driver deaths and 28 per cent of passenger deaths. About 10 per cent of Latrobe Shire’s population is in that age group. In a radical departure from traditional style, RACV has commissioned comedian Dave Grant to develop a performance incorporating the Don’t drive tired – Sleep is the only answer campaign message. Grant, who successfully road-tested his RACV set at Melbourne university campuses last year, performed the show today at the Gippsland Monash University campus. “Considering our target audience is generally a hard nut to crack, we decided to come up with something completely different,” said RACV Chief Behavioural Scientist, Anne Harris. “Dave’s hilarious of course, but the underlying aim is trying to motivate young drivers to change their behaviour to reduce the very serious risk to themselves and others.” Other campaign tools include a special website — dontdrivetired.com.au — featuring real-life stories from young victims of tiredness-related crashes. Young regional drivers can also enter an online competition to win a $500 taxi voucher or one of five $100 taxi vouchers. Postcards featuring tips on how to beat tiredness are being distributed at cafes, cinemas and other locations. Community Service Announcements featuring Dave Grant are also being aired on regional radio stations. RACV launched the campaign after its research showed almost half of 400 respondents aged 18-25 had driven tired the previous week. One third said they nearly crashed as a result of driving tired at some point.

Page 2

“Young drivers surveyed said they had busy lifestyles and random social lives and valued the flexibility that driving gave them,” Ms Harris said. “About half said they used music or the radio to stay awake at the wheel, which we know doesn’t work. Sleep is the only cure for tiredness.”

Don’t Drive Tired fact sheet Driver tiredness is a significant road safety problem; driving while tired is believed to be a contributing factor in as many as 25 per cent of all Victorian road deaths. The main causes of crashes which involve tiredness is when people drive when they lack enough quality sleep or if they drive when they would normally be asleep. RACV’s Fatigue and Young Drivers (2006) report investigating tiredness and young drivers found that:

• nearly half (43%) of the 400 participants surveyed – aged 18 to 25 – admitted to driving while tired in the preceding week and nearly one third (27%) said they had nearly crashed as a result of driving tired at some point

• driving while tired appears to be a consequence of lifestyle-related factors that override any concerns about the potential risks of doing so

• the young drivers said they had busy lifestyles and unstructured social lives, and valued the flexibility driving offered them, but they often compensated for extra demands on their time by sacrificing sleep. Despite realising they were tired; they did not feel motivated to change their behaviour to reduce the risk

What causes driver tiredness?

• the two main causes of tiredness are lack of quality sleep and driving at times when you would normally be asleep. By not getting enough sleep you build up a sleep debt

• a sleep debt is when you don’t get enough sleep — you ‘owe’ yourself more sleep — and the only way to repay this debt is by sleeping. Until you catch up on your sleep, you have a greater risk of having a tiredness related crash

• when you’re tired, you are less alert to what is happening on the road and less able to react if a dangerous situation arises. Signs of tiredness include: constant yawning, sore or heavy eyes, altered or blurred vision, daydreaming, and/or difficulty remembering the last few minutes.

How to Beat Tiredness

• Sleep-in after a late night — sleep deprivation causes sleep debt, which can only be settled by sleep

• Avoid driving at times when normally asleep — your body naturally requires sleep between 1am and 6am — driving during this period greatly increases your risk of crashing

• Catch a taxi or get a lift instead of driving if tired — don’t risk it — take a taxi or get someone to pick you up

Page 3

• Top up with a 15 to 30 minute nap before you head out — a quick nap when tired can alleviate short-term effects of tiredness

• Switch off your mobile phone before sleeping so a call or sms won’t wake you — the quality of your sleep can make the world of difference

• Sleep is the only cure for tiredness — don’t be fooled by myths to combat tiredness — newsflash, the only solution is sleep!

More Information Visit the campaign website at dontdrivetired.com.au to view the “Win a $500 taxi voucher” competition, read real life stories from young drivers and download the RACV Fatigue and Young Drivers report. Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

15 February 2007

24/07

No need to wish upon our stars RACV is urging holidaymakers planning Easter trips to book STAR Rated accommodation

following feedback about substandard accommodation.

RACV Tourism and Travel General Manager, Neil James, said RACV received up to 15 letters

a month from members whose booked accommodation had not lived up to expectations.

“We’re aware of at least 3000 operators across Australia who do not have an official STAR Rating. Some basically invent their own property rating, which can mislead consumers,” Mr

James said.

“To guarantee that the standard of your holiday accommodation is what operators claim it is

and to avoid any heartbreak, we encourage people to always use the official STAR Rating.”

Mr James said the trusted STAR Rating Scheme reassured consumers that properties had been independently assessed to meet the rigorous criteria

More than 11,000 properties in Australia are STAR Rated, including hotels, motels, tourist parks, backpackers and B&Bs – providing options to suit all budgets, great and small.

“Our qualified assessors probe properties using a 1000-point check — examining amenities and levels of maintenance and cleanliness — with a STAR Rating awarded based on

findings,” he said.

“Unlike some international rating schemes, all properties are reassessed every 12 to 18 months to ensure standards have not slipped, providing further peace of mind to consumers.”

Mr James said in Australia the STARs brand was recognised instantly by 95 per cent of the population, with 72 per cent using the STARs scheme to make their accommodation

selections.

RACV has recently published a handy pocket-sized consumer booklet — Unfolding STAR

Ratings — which outlines each STAR Rating and what you can expect to get for your money.

Mr James said the informative booklet also debunked misconceptions about the STARs scheme.

Page 2

“For example, does the number of soap cakes or clothes hooks in the bathroom affect a

hotel’s STAR Rating? Or does a four-STAR motel offer the same amenities as a four-STAR

B&B?” he said.

“The answers to these questions, and much more, can be found in Unfolding STAR Ratings.”

• The Unfolding STAR Ratings booklet is available at RACV shops and racv.com.

More information: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

2 April 2008

47/08

Eddington study a critical catalyst

RACV has congratulated Sir Rod Eddington on his East-West study, describing it as a critical

catalyst in improving transport operations in Melbourne’s east-west corridor.

RACV Public Policy General Manager, Brian Negus, said RACV firmly supported the

balanced approach reflected in Sir Rod’s recommendations, especially the rail and road

tunnels and other specific improvements to public transport and roads in the corridor.

“The planning of major rail and road projects for Melbourne needs to move away from the

outdated ‘hub and spoke’ or radial approach prevalent in our existing rail, tram and bus

networks,” Mr Negus said.

“RACV believes that cross-town public transport services, including additional bus services,

are a critical part of future transport in Melbourne.

“However, we’re disappointed that there is not a recommendation regarding the completion

of the Metropolitan Ring Road and we call on the State Government to immediately initiate the planning of this key link from Greensborough to the Eastern Freeway and EastLink.”

Mr Negus said the State Government needed to investigate a number of key aspects in Sir

Rod’s recommendations, including:

• possibility of an interchange connection to the proposed east-west road tunnel at a

mid location, such as Nicholson Street • location of rail stations on the underground rail link, especially the possibility of

servicing Melbourne University

• required improvements along Alexandra Parade and Hoddle Street to address congestion hot spots and public transport conflicts at intersections

• a strategy to roll out additional clearways with extended times and priority for trams

and buses on key routes.

Mr Negus said RACV firmly believed Melburnians would continue to suffer needless and

increasing congestion until clear action and investment by the State Government was

undertaken in the east-west transport corridor.

He said while the issues in the east-west corridor had largely been considered in the report,

RACV was disappointed that the Government had constrained the terms of reference to

preclude consideration of the wider transport issues across Melbourne.

“We’re calling on the Government to immediately start development of a comprehensive

transport plan for Melbourne, arguably something we haven’t had for many decades,” he said.

“This plan would establish the transport network’s existing capabilities and ensure land is reserved for transport projects required to meet Melbourne’s long-term urban development.

Page 2

“A vital component will be boosting the capacity of cross-city public transport.”

Mr Negus said RACV was disappointed that it had taken so long for the State Government to resolve major bottlenecks in the east-west corridor.

“Sir Rod has provided a visionary blueprint for the way forward and RACV calls on the State Government to take decisive action to flesh out the details and get on with implementing the

initiatives,” he said.

“As Sir Rod himself has said, the projects in this package cannot be cherry picked — the public transport and road projects are all crucial.

“Inaction by the Government is simply not an option.”

• See next page for summary of RACV position and submission to the East-West study

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

Page 3

Summary of RACV position and submission to the East-West study

RACV proposed a balanced transport plan for this corridor to achieve the efficient movement of people and goods. Specifically, RACV proposed:

• a number of large scale public transport and road projects to address strategic freight and private transport movements across Melbourne and to the port of Melbourne

• upgrading of key intersections along Alexandra Parade and Hoddle St to improve

transport operations and to address public transport/private transport conflicts

• significant upgrading of the express bus and eastern bus network to provide good public transport alternatives in the corridor

• selective bus priority treatments to improve access to the central city

• operational improvements to extend the time for clearways along Alexandra Parade and Hoddle St and to improve tram and bus priority.

It is essential the initiatives for this corridor include both public transport and road transport

improvements. Providing vastly improved public transport will encourage people to change their mode of travel and this must be part of the solution. Equally, improvement in road

transport is needed to sustain the life style and economic position which all Melbournians

enjoy. This is not about roads versus public transport; one-dimensional proposals will not provide the transport system which Melbourne needs.

RACV submissions included:

Large Scale Transport Improvements

Complete a continuous, connected freeway network in Melbourne, linking regional Victoria and the national highway network with the metropolitan area and provide access to the inner

city and the Port of Melbourne. Two key projects are required:

• a freeway standard connection between the Eastern Freeway through to CityLink/

Tullamarine Freeway and extended to the Western Highway

• completion of Melbourne’s orbital transport corridor, or Ring Road by connecting the Metropolitan Ring Rd at Greensborough to the Eastern Freeway/EastLink.

Public Transport and Roads Improvement Projects

Improve connectivity to the northern and central city and improvements at key locations to

resolve private transport conflicts with public transport including:

• selected local grade separations or traffic management treatments on Alexandra

Parade at the intersections with Wellington, Smith, Brunswick, Nicholson and

Rathdowne streets to resolve conflicts between trams (travelling north/south) and

traffic on Alexandra Parade (travelling east/west or turning) • local grade separations or traffic management treatments on Hoddle St at

intersections with Johnston St, Victoria St and Bridge Rd to resolve conflicts between

trams (travelling east/west) and traffic on Hoddle St (travelling north/south or turning) • road closures and / or provide “left in” – “left out” treatments at other intersections

along Hoddle St.

Improve Public Transport services from the Eastern Corridor to the northern and central

city area by:

• upgrading the Eastern Freeway Express Bus to ‘Smart Bus’ standards

• providing an expanded bus network in the Eastern corridor • improve bus access to Central City Area via selective bus priority measures.

Operational Improvements

Page 4

Support large scale and regional projects through appropriate operational measures

including such things as:

• provision of 24-hour clearways along Hoddle St and Alexander Parade

• relocation of on-street parking to off-street or underground facilities • road closures and / or provide “left in” – “left out” treatments at other intersections

along Hoddle St and along other selected arterial roads

• provision of queue-jump bus priority at intersections

• tram priority measures.

1

ANCAP media release, embargoed to 4am, 6 November 2008 155/08

Barina bounces back with four-star safety THE Holden Barina has bounced back from a poor two-star safety rating to achieve a four-star rating under the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

ANCAP, Australia’s leading consumer vehicle safety advocate, crash-tests new vehicles and awards them a safety star rating based on internationally recognised

protocols.

The Korean-built Barina received widespread criticism following its two-star ANCAP safety rating in 2006, whereas the previous Barina model, sourced from Europe and

tested by ANCAP in 2001, achieved a four-star safety rating.

ANCAP Victorian partners, RACV, VicRoads and the Transport Accident

Commission (TAC), said the newly tested Barina had upgraded safety features and

an improved structural performance.

“We are pleased to see a much better safety result for the Barina following the latest

ANCAP tests and believe that the previous two-star result affected the vehicle’s

market sales,” the ANCAP partners said.

“Holden has been keen to improve the Barina’s safety performance and ANCAP

representatives met with the car's designers in Korea earlier this year. Holden has put effort into improving the passenger compartment’s structure and reducing the risk

of knee injury.

“The company has also made head-protecting side airbags standard and added a

driver seat belt reminder. These improvements have contributed to the Barina three-

door hatch achieving a four-star rating.”

The Barina now joins a range of other four-star vehicles in its small-car class, as

outlined on the results section of ANCAP’s website.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, Australian

state governments, the New Zealand government, the Victorian TAC, the Insurance

Australia Group and the FIA Foundation.

A full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings, including commercial vehicles and other

vehicle safety information, is available at www.ancap.com.au

Media contact: RACV, Denis Brown, xxxx xxx xxx

3 October 2007

112/07

Battery charge bigger bonus for sick kids

RACV is hoping its fourth annual Great Battery Round Up (GBRU) will be the biggest yet in

terms of the total battery haul and cash raised for The Royal Children’s Hospital.

An extra 23 collection sites have been added for the Saturday October 6 event to enable even

more people to surrender dead automotive batteries between 9am and 1pm for recycling (see

full list on next page).

As a further incentive, RACV Batteries has also increased the $2 it donates to The Royal

Children’s Hospital for every battery received, to $5 per battery.

GBRU spokesman, Gordon Oakley, said considering last year’s GBR had netted 5487 dead

cells, the potential to raise a substantial sum for the hospital, while doing something positive

for the environment, was “huge”.

“We estimate there are at least 64,000 old car batteries stored in Victorian garages, sheds and

back yards, all containing poisonous acid and lead — potential hazards to humans, animals and the environment,” Mr Oakley said.

“So we’re encouraging people to do the right thing and surrender any dead batteries to one of

our 44 drop-off sites during the Round Up. It’s really that easy to make a difference to the environment and to The Royal Children’s Hospital.”

About 96 per cent of each battery is recyclable and a staggering 8kg of lead is extracted from a single automotive battery during recycling. RACV’s recycling partner, Australian Refined

Alloys, extracted 44,000kg of lead and 19,000 litres of acid from 5487 batteries gathered

during last year’s GBR.

Sustainability Victoria spokesman, Jon Ward, said the Round Up was a fantastic annual

initiative that enabled the community to safely dispose of used automotive batteries.

“Our environment is under increasing pressure so we must act to ensure we deal with

hazardous items such as car batteries responsibly and sustainably,” he said.

“Sustainability Victoria is proud to support the RACV Great Battery Round Up and I

congratulate RACV on their leadership in highlighting safe and sustainable disposal practices

to support a healthier environment.”

RACV Great Battery Round Up is endorsed by Sustainability Victoria and supported by

Australian Refined Alloys. Visit racv.com.au for 2007 GBRU collection sites and tips on how to

handle batteries safely.

See next page for a full list of the 44 GBRU collection sites

Page 2

2007 RACV Great Battery Round Up collection sites Saturday October 6, 9am – 1pm

Metropolitan

• Blackburn — Nationwide Towing, 10 Ashburn Place

• Broadmeadows — Meadows Tyre & Auto Service, 434 Barry Rd • Chadstone — Bowen Automotive Tyre & Brake, 67 Poath Rd

• Chirnside Park — Mobil Care Care, 242 Maroondah Highway

• Collingwood — Nationwide Towing, 34 Cromwell St

• Dandenong — Nationwide Towing, 26 Plunkett Rd • Glen Waverley — Ask Auto Electrics P/L, 4/13 Aristoc Rd

• Greensborough — Greensborough Auto Electrical, 257 Para Rd

• Hawthorn — East Kurrle Motors, 878 Toorak Rd • Kilsyth — Montrose Automotive Services, 4/120 Canterbury Rd

• Mentone — Mentone Motafix, 29 Florence St

• Noble Park North — RACV Service Centre, 550 Princes Highway

• Nunawading — Nunawading Engine Clinic, 6A Beech St • Pakenham — Pakenham Automotive P/L, 6 Racecourse Rd

• South Yarra — South Yarra Perfomance, 48 Garden St

• Sunbury — Shephards Complete Car Care, 117 Evans St • Thomastown — Meadows Tyre & Auto Service, 212 Mahoneys Rd

• Whittlesea — Whittlesea Smash Repairs, 1 Millenium Park

Regional • Alexandra — Alexandra Total Car Care, 120 Grant St

• Bacchus Marsh — B&A Automotive, 15 Station St • Ballarat — Eclipse Ford, 1-15 Albert St

• Balnarring — Balnarring Motors Pty Ltd, 2994 Frankston-Flinders Rd

• Bendigo — Strathdale Motors, 199 Reservoir Rd • Casterton — Coxons Holden, 137-139 Henty St

• Cohuna — Cohuna Car Sales, 16 King Edward St

• Colac — Rodgers Bros Colac Tyre Service, 82 Gellibrand St

• Corryong — Mildren & Coysh Pty Ltd, 6 Towong Rd • Cowes — Total Care Car Centre, 140 Thompson Ave

• Derrinallum — Urquhart Motors, 9-13 Main St

• Drouin — Drouin Motors, 94 Princes Highway • Echuca — Morley Ford, 35 Northern Highway

• Horsham — Wilson Bolton & Co, 22 O’Calaghans Pde

• Kilmore — Kilmore Tyre Service, 94 Sydney St • Lakes Entrance — Whiters St Autos, 56 Whiters St

• Melton — Melton Toyota, 143 High St

• Mirboo North — Ken Graeme Motors, 9-13 Main St

• Mornington — Auto Bodywork Mornington, 131 Tyabb Rd • Nhill — Halfway Motors, 60 Victoria St

• Ouyen — Ouyen Automative & Electrical, corner of Rowe and Gregory St

• Robinvale — Pioneer Ford Pty, Caix Square • Rosebud — Two Way Motors, 72 Pt Nepean Highway

• Traralgon — Albroys Car Centre, corner of Princes Highway and Mcnain Rd

• Wodonga — Grealy Motors, 12 Reid St

• Yarrawonga — Ross Lloyd Motors, 80 Belmore St

Media contact: Denis Brown RACV Public Affairs xxxx xxx xxx

8 January 2007

2/07

Holiday spirit raises risk on roads

RACV is warning that the hectic holiday period raises the risk on Victoria's roads.

“The Christmas and New Year holiday period is traditionally a festive time but it can so easily spell disaster. With so many people revelling in the holiday atmosphere, there is a heightened

road crash risk,” said RACV General Manager Public Policy, Ken Ogden.

Dr Ogden said because alcohol consumption was much higher at this time of year, drivers and

pedestrians alike must not forget the alcohol message.

“We're particularly concerned that the alcohol problem is growing again, especially among pedestrians”, he said.

“Pedestrian fatalities have increased by about 30 per cent in 2006 compared with 2005, particularly in country Victoria. And this year a staggering 39 per cent of pedestrian fatalities

had a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of .05 or above.

“Pedestrians need to be aware that they can be a danger to themselves and others if they

don't take care near moving vehicles. And motorists should be alert in places where there is a

likelihood of intoxicated pedestrians, such as outside pubs.”

Dr Ogden said Victoria had worked hard to reduce alcohol-related driver fatalities since the

introduction of booze buses in 1989, which had been effective, in conjunction with public

awareness campaigns, such as the TAC' s `Drink drive bloody idiot’ campaign.

RACV advises that if you are planning to drive, the only way to be certain of staying under

.05 is to avoid drinking. If you do drink, the following strategies will help minimise the risk:

• arrange alternative transport if you are likely to be drinking

• finish your glass before refilling to make it easier to keep count of your drinks

• be aware that drinks may be larger than the standard size • avoid drinking on an empty stomach

• remember that your BAC may rise for one to two hours after your last drink

• if you drink at night, you can still be over the limit the following morning.

“As a pedestrian, remember the basic safety precautions, which are even more important if

you have been drinking as your judgement is impaired and reaction time slower,” he said.

“If possible, stay on footpaths and choose safe places to cross roads such as at designated

crossings. Do not dart out between cars as you will be difficult to see, and always hail a taxi

from the kerb rather than the roadway.” For more information: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

6 February 2007

20/07

Sturt and Calder dangerous, says RACV

MILDURA’S deadly and dangerous roads have nowhere to hide following RACV’s release of

the first ever safety star ratings for the Sturt and Calder highways.

The highways were among nearly 5000km of Victoria’s country highways rated under the

Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP), which classifies roads from one-star (least

safe) to five-star (safest) based on the road’s inherent safety features.

Just as safety star ratings have been developed for vehicles, roads can now be rated for

safety based on how their design helps prevent crashes - or minimises severity of crashes.

The comprehensive RACV study rated Victoria’s main country highways. Results reveal that

the state has no significant lengths of five-star highways, with 54 per cent scoring three stars,

and 24 per cent only achieving a two-star rating.

RACV Chief Engineer Traffic and Roads, Peter Daly, said Mildura’s highways were “simply not

up to scratch”.

“More than 300km of the Calder north of Bendigo rated only three stars, which is totally

unacceptable for such an important and busy road,” Mr Daly said.

“Seventy-two crashes have occurred on this road in the past five years and many of these

could have been prevented if the road had more modern in-built safety features.

“While 50km of the Sturt Highway, west of Bendigo, performed no better with a three-star

rating, the good news is that the stretch of highway from Lake Cullulleraine to the South

Australian border rated four stars – the only two-lane undivided section of road in the state to

receive this higher rating.”

Mr Daly said upgrades were urgently required to bring the low-rating sections up to modern

safety standards.

“AusRAP star ratings demonstrate that relatively low-cost improvements to these high-risk

roads have the potential to dramatically lower the road toll,” he said.

Examples of such improvements include sealed shoulders, better overtaking provision,

improved intersections and safer roadsides where trees, poles and steep embankments are

removed or protected with safety barriers.

“RACV is urging state governments and the Federal Government to act immediately to build

these proven safety features into the Calder and Sturt highways, so that more families see out 2007 without the loss of any loved ones,” he said

Page 2

Mr Daly said that RACV had called on the State Government to allocate at least $200 million

per year to bring Victoria’s country highways up to modern safety standards.

“The State has made a good start, with around $20 million invested in shoulder sealing, safety

fencing and improved intersections on the Calder Highway north of Bendigo over the past five

years,” he said.

“But the Federal Government shouldn’t think it is off the hook; a clear demonstration is needed

to show they are serious about keeping Victorians alive.

“The Calder and Sturt Highways are designated as AusLink National Corridors, therefore

upgrading these roads is a joint federal and state responsibility.

“The Federal Government must invest much more than the paltry $10 million Federal

Blackspot Program (statewide) to help bring the Calder Highway north of Bendigo and Sturt

Highway west of Mildura up to at least a four-star standard without delay.

“The bottom line for RACV is safe drivers in safe vehicles should not die as a consequence of

unsafe roads.”

RACV’s report, Safer Roads Save Lives – Star ratings for Victoria’s Country Highways, is

available at racv.com.au.

More information: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

Crash Statistics for Calder Highway and Sturt Highway

Crashes occurring between 1/11/2000 and 31/10/2005 (latest five years of official data) on the

open highway.

Type of crash Calder Hwy

between Mildura & Bendigo

Sturt Hwy between Mildura &

SA border

Run off road crashes between intersections 56

(incl. 2 people killed) 5

Head-on crashes between intersections 6

(incl. 2 people killed) 2

Crashes at intersections 10 5

(incl. 2 people killed)

TOTAL CRASHES 72 (incl. 4 people killed)

12 (incl. 2 people killed)

Notes

1. Crashes in towns and on sections with a speed limit less than 90km/h are not included

as they are not considered ‘open highway’ crashes. 2. Some crashes (e.g. ‘struck animal’ crashes’) are not reflected in the above total.

22 January 2007

16/07

RACV rally for Peter Mac the best yet

THE ni nth RACV Great Austral ian Ral ly ye sterday (Sunday, 21 January) rai sed a record amount for charity beneficiary, the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. More than $40,000 was raised via vehicle owner entry fees and gate proceeds from the picnic and vehicle display event at Mornington Racecourse, attended by 4000 people. RACV Motoring Association Manager, Brian Kelly, said the organisers were delighted with the record amount generated by this highly successful family-orientated event. “All proceeds go to the Peter M acCallum C ancer C entre and w ill be used to further the centre’s efforts to combat cancer and to treat patients,” Mr Kelly said. “The strengths of P eter Mac are its patient-centred care, dedication to research and an ability to investigate and utilise new pat ient treatm ents. P eter M ac al so trains new generations of doctors, scientists, nurses and allied health professionals.” Mr Kel ly said the annual RACV event had grown into Victoria’s largest vintage, veteran and classic car rally — this year’s rally attracted almost 900 vehicle buffs. Some of the m ore remarkable cars on di splay at M ornington included George Hetrel ’s 1896 single-cylinder Benz Vel o, one of onl y tw o l eft i n the worl d — the other i s at the M ercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart. “Another crowd pl easer was Ross W olstenholm’s beauti ful 1950s Aston M artin DB3S, the predecessor to the iconic DB5, as seen in the 1964 James Bond movie, Goldfinger,” he said. Other attractions included a pri stine Jaguar XK 150 coupe, 1960s M ini Cooper S, super-car prototype A.C. Ace, a Ferrari Testarossa and a contemporary Formula One concept car. More information: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

3/07 5 January 2007

Watch out for injured wildlife RACV is urging holiday-makers on the road this summer to watch out for wildlife. RACV and Zoos Victoria say drought conditions are increasing the movement of animals searching for food, making summer a time of increasing danger for collisions between animals and vehicles. Bushfire can exacerbate this situation, with wildl ife often becoming confused and stressed and fleeing onto roads. Even weeks after the fire has passed, animals may become sick from smoke exposure, or infections caused by burns to fester. Holiday-makers are also urged to watch out for injured wildlife while on bush walks or in picnic areas. Motorists who collide with or encounter injured wildlife on the road should contact RACV Wildlife Connect on 13 11 11 for connection to their nearest volunteer wildlife rescue organisation. RACV General Manager, Member Contact Centres, Rod Chapman, said since RACV Wildlife Connect was launched in February 2006, operators had taken more than 1,200 calls seeking help for injured and distressed animals. “We have witnessed an increase in the number of calls during the past few months as a result of warmer and drier weather conditions,” he said. “Our telephone operators are available 24 hours a day and we hope to help take the stress out of a difficult situation by providing a simple and accessible solution to motorists.” RACV Wildlife Connect is part of RACV’s five year, $1 million partnership with Zoos Victoria, supporting the Australian Wildlife Health Centre at Healesville Sanctuary. It operates in conjunction with established volunteer wildlife rescue organisations: Help for Wildlife, Wildlife Victoria and Wildlife Rescue and Information Network. More information: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

15 October 2007

113/07

Historic rally a different class

FANS of veteran, vintage and classic vehicles are in for a rare treat when the inaugural RACV

City to Cape Rally revs up on Sunday October 28.

The Melbourne to Mornington event, organised by the Association of Motoring Clubs, offers

enthusiasts the chance to see the biggest and most diverse convoy of pre-1958 automotive

machines ever to collectively hit the road in Victoria.

Catch the vehicles at Kings Domain prior to 9.30am departure, en route, at a 10.30am display

in Frankston or the City to Cape Rally Family Day at destination, RACV Cape Schanck Resort

on the Mornington Peninsula.

RACV Motoring Interests Coordinator, Brian Kelly, said unlike typical rallies that featured one

type of vehicle, the City to Cape, with more than 300 vehicles dating back to the early 1900s, had Australia’s automotive history covered.

“We’ve got Ford, Holden, Chevrolet, Singer, Hudson, Packard, Morris, Austin Healey, Mercedes Benz, Renault, Sunbeam, MG and many more,” Mr Kelly said.

“Assorted motorcycles, cars, trucks, utes, even a 1940s fire engine. Our really early cars

include a beautiful 1909 AX Renault and an extremely rare 1927 Marmon E75. As you’d expect, many of these vehicles have some really interesting stories attached.”

The rarest car is a pristine 1936 540K Mercedes Benz, owned by avid collector, George Hetrel and believed to have been a high-ranking German officer’s staff car during World War II.

Mercedes’ flagship model, the eight-cylinder 540K was built by special order and less than

450 were produced between 1936 and 1939. Only about three 540Ks survive today.

Another guaranteed head-turner, also Teutonic, is a 1924 Wanderer, and a veteran of the

1928 Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island. Completely original, it has a 1300cc engine,

three-speed gearbox and 80mp/h top speed. It is the only racing Wanderer left in the world.

Mt Eliza-based owner, Chris Terdich, explained his grandfather, Arthur Terdich — winner of

the 1929 Australian GP — raced a Bugatti in the same 1928 GP where the Wanderer crashed on Heaven Corner, smashing a front wheel. An Austin 7 took the chequered flag.

“It still has a ding in the radiator,” said Mr Terdich, who acquired the Wanderer two years ago

from the estate of his uncle Arnold Terdich who bought it from the original importer in 1966.

“I’ll be driving it with extreme caution as it only has a hand-lever operated brake; suicidal,” he

said.

• RACV City to Cape Ral ly Family Day, RACV Cape Schanck Resor t, Melway Ref 259 C4, 11am to 3.30pm. More details, 9944 8705 or go to www.aomc.asn.au

Page 2

Rally vehicle owners available for interview/photo opportunity

Mt Eliza - Wanderer, 1924. Raced in 1928 Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island. Completely

original and only racing Wanderer left in the world. Owner Chris Terdich, phone: 0409 832 027.

Brighton - Alfa Romeo, 1923. Excellent example of vintage Italian grand tourer and only one in Australia. Owner, Peter Shepherd, phone: 9592 1893.

Caulfield - Hudson Roadster, 1935. An American classic, one of several Hudsons owned by

Tony Barca, phone: 0419 596 644.

Bentleigh East - Packard sedan, 1929. US luxury equivalent to Rolls Royce, this model is a

six-wheel sedan with a sleek body. Owner, Graeme Wilson, phone: (AH) 9570 4380, (BH) 9282 6604.

Cheltenham - Singer sports car, 1949. Popular in the pre-war era and early 1950s, Singer provided stiff competition to rival MG. Owners, Deidre Pownell and Rey Oaks, phone: 9585

3303 or 0417 577 570.

Mentone - LaSalle, 1920. Economy companion model to the Cadillac produced by General Motors from 1927 to 1940. These stylish cars are highly sought after by collectors. Owner,

Aub Smith, phone: 9583 3960.

Patterson Lakes - Dodge tourer, 1918. Dodge entered the US market as competition to

Ford’s Model T. Dodge became an American icon and a staple of Australian veteran car clubs.

Owner, Peter Wright, phone: 9772 3768.

Mornington - Lancia B20 saloon, 1954. Extremely cool Italian sports car with futuristic styling

and excellent road handling. Only a few were imported to Australia. Owner, Maurie Haydon,

phone: 9787 7662 or 0419 379822.

Mont Albert - Marmon E75, 1927. Rare US vehicle in immaculate condition; only one left in

the world. Owner, Roland Deery, phone: (AH) 9899 1331.

Glen W averley – AX Renault, 1909. A fully restored example of a luxury model that would

have cost 10 years wages of the average French worker. Owner, Alan Lethborg, phone: 9560

8299.

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx

21 November 2007 128/07

Victoria poor cousin on road funding

RACV today expressed concern that road election funding pledges from federal parties for Victoria do not go far enough with Victoria certainly not getting its fair share.

Prime Minister John Howard has promised a $2 billion Victorian road package if the coalition is re-elected and Labor leader Kevin Rudd has pledged almost $2.4 billlion for road

infrastructure projects in Victoria.

RACV is concerned the lion’s share of road funding commitments is going to Queensland, with

the coalition promising $7.2 billion and Labor offering $4.8 billion, and also to New South

Wales with the parties promising $5.4 billion and $2.5 billion respectively — clearly the funding

is skewed away from Victoria

RACV General Manger Public Policy, Brian Negus, said the pledged funds to Victoria would

not fully cover the cost of the projects in many cases and there were still a number of key projects that had received no funding from one party or the other.

The commitment today by the ALP to the Princes Highway West duplication from Geelong to Winchelsea as a first stage of the Geelong to Colac project is certainly welcomed by the

RACV. Mr Negus said RACV looked to the Coalition to commit now to this project.

RACV has identified nine key road infrastructure projects that will provide important safety and economic benefits to the state and deliver a first-class road system and infrastructure for

Melbourne and Victoria.

So far the Coalition has ignored RACV’s case for funding:

• Western Ring Road improvements

• Princes Highway West duplication from Geelong to Colac

• completing Melbourne’s Ring Road from Greensborough to Eastern Freeway/EastLink.

The ALP has ignored RACV’s case for funding:

• Frankston Freeway / Mornington Peninsula Freeway • completing Melbourne’s Ring Road from Greensborough to Eastern Freeway/EastLink.

“Victoria generates a quarter of the national economy, has a high population density and is the transport hub of Australia with a significant road network,” Mr Negus said.

“We urge all federal parties to put the politics aside and make rational economic decisions

concerning Australia's road system. The Coalition and Federal Labor need to recognise Victoria’s contribution to the national economy by committing a fairer share of funding under

Auslink 2 to priority projects.

RACV and its 1.9 million members fully expect all political parties to make a commitment

before election day to the projects which they have so far ignored.”

Media contact: Denis Brown, RACV Public Affairs, xxxx xxx xxx