Head to the great

THE National 4X4 Show and Fishing Show and Outdoors Expo will return to the Melbourne Exhibition Centre in October.
Now in its seventh year the show offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to spy, try and buy the very latest in 4WD, fishing and camping gear.
The twoforone show, which invites Australians to explore their own ‘backyard’ has something for everyone, with organisers tailoring this year’s event with the family in mind.
For mum there is plenty of expert advice on where and when to take your next family on holiday, along with tips on cooking, camping and adventuring in the great outdoors.
Kids will be entertained by fishing competitions, clowns, and interactive rock crawl demonstrations by the Tuff Trucks crew.
For dads, displays and demonstrations by leading 4WD manufacturers such as Holden, Nissan, Toyota, Ford, and Jeep and a ‘great indoors’ full of fishing and camping exhibitors, three days just may not be enough time to explore it all.
Last year thousands of people immersed themselves in the Australian outdoor way of life in the heart of the city.
The Outback Arena will return this year, with experts from 4X4 Australia Magazine offering handy techniques for vehicle preparation and outback travel safety.
The 4X4 team will also be on hand offering the chance to win great prizes.
For fishing enthusiasts, the Fishing Show and Outdoors Expo is set to showcase the latest tackle, lures, accessories, boats, engines, marine electronics and outdoor gear.
Visitors can also research the best fishing spots in Australia and discover great ideas for a unique fishing trip.
There will be plenty of fresh and saltwater fishing tips on offer at the main stage and interactive casting alley.
The natural synergy between four wheel driving, fishing and camping ensures The National 4X4 Show, and Fishing Show and Outdoors Expo offers visitors two great shows for one admission price.
This year’s event will be held at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre from Thursday, October 20 to Sunday, October 23.
Admission cost $16 for adults, $11 for concession (seniors, pensioners and students), $7 for children under 15 years of age.
A family ticket for two adults and all children under 15 in the immediate family costs $39.
Opening hours are Thursday 4pm to 10pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 10pm and Sunday 10am to 6pm.
Visit www.4x4show.com.au and www.fishingshow.com.au for further information.

Win tickets

If you, or someone you know, has a passion for fishing and the great outdoors, drop us a line.
You could win one of five double passes, valued at $39 each to the National 4X4 Show, as well as the Fishing Show and Outdoors Expo.
Write your name, address and a contact phone number on the back of an envelope and tell us where the 2005 National 4X4 Show, and Fishing Show and Outdoors Expo is being held.
Send your entry to Mail Newspapers 4X4/Fishing Show Competition, PO Box 470, Healesville, 3777.
Entries close 1 October.
Competition winners will be notified.