4x4 news and event info from across Australia: June

A number of fun events and activities are kickstarting over the next few months. Plus, there are a few updates to tracks that'll come in handy if you're heading off on an adventure. Here's just a sample of what's coming up.

Access to Vrilya Point (Qld)
Vrilya Point is still on top of a lot of people’s question lists regarding Cape York. The latest news on accessing this top spot is that there have been no decisions made by the Traditional Owners (TOs) regarding camping and access for 2017. However, the area will not open until August. The main reason is the state of the bridge, while the TOs also mentioned the amount of rubbish being left behind by visitors. Please note Vrilya Point Beach is also closed, even if you go there via boat. Rangers will be patrolling.

Aberfeldy Tracks Guide (Vic)
A great little brochure and map has been produced that gives details on four back-road trips (and eight side trips) that you can enjoy between Walhalla and Jamieson in the rugged mountains of the Vic High Country. This is a combined effort between the Vic government, 4WD Victoria and the West Gippsland Relic, Mining and Heritage Protection group, who do much of the maintenance of the track and heritage sites. Find a copy of the brochure/map at: www.ffm.vic.gov.au

Henry Lawson Festival (NSW)
The Henry Lawson Festival will be celebrating 60 years this year, as well as the 150th birthday of the old bard himself. Dates are from June 8-12. The festival starts on Thursday and continues to Monday, with an array of exhibitions, events and entertainment. For more details, visit: www.henrylawsonfestival.com.au

Mullewa Muster and Rodeo Championships (WA)
Mullewa will be hosting a round of the Australian Rodeo Championships over the WA long weekend (June 3-4). There will be plenty of entertainment including a Beaut Ute Competition and a Country Music Concert headlined by Troy Cassar-Daly. Camping is free and opens Friday afternoon. For more info, go to: www.cgg.wa.gov.au

Mt Freeling Station (SA)
Mt Freeling Station in the northern Flinders Ranges has changed ownership. Accommodation, camping and 4WD touring is no longer an integral part of the operation and will be restricted. For permission and more information, contact the managers on (08) 8648 4851.

Bramwell Cup (Qld)
From June 30 to July 2, Bramwell Station on Cape York will welcome neighbours and visitors to its property for horse races and events for younger carnival goers. The weekend will be aiding the RFDS. For more go to: www.bramwellstationcapeyork.com.au or contact the roadhouse on: (07) 4060 3230.

Simpson Desert Bike Challenge (SA)
The Simpson Desert Bike Challenge will take place during the last week of September. It may be a good time for four wheelers not involved with the race to avoid the route, as opportunities to overtake are restricted between 5.30am and 5.30pm. This event will consist of a convoy of around 35 vehicles and 25 mountain bikes racing between Purni Bore and the Birdsville Track, via Rig Road and Warburton Track. The event raises money for the RFDS. It has been running for 30 years and hopes to lift total donations to $300,000. Check out www.desertchallenge.org