Meet the Feisty 4WD’s: Wendy and Bruiser

Wendy the Isuzu Tip-Truck

So, the next member of the team, Wendy. How good is Wendy? So Wendy’s a 96 Isuzu truck, but she’s got a couple of tricks up her sleeve. She is the backbone of our operations. This trusty operator is more than just a vehicle; she’s a character. The great thing about Wendy is that she’s a tipper. If I want to get the material out the back, I open up the back gate, it slides on out and then it’s all done and she’s ready to drive off.

Wendy’s tipping capabilities are invaluable for managing our property. From hauling firewood for cozy winter nights to shifting piles of compost for our thriving garden, she handles every task with aplomb. Her robust build and powerful engine make light work of even the toughest jobs, and her tipping function saves us countless hours of manual labor.

Now I gotta mention the reason why she’s called Wendy is because when our kids were little, they used to love Bob the Builder. And everybody knows Bob’s wife is called Wendy. So Wendy’s one of our characters, and she’s got a lot of personality. She’s a lot of fun. So, while she’s tough on the outside, she’s got a soft spot for those who know her story.

Wendy has become more than just a tool; she’s a member of the family. She’s weathered countless storms, endured long hours, and always delivered. Her resilience and dedication are an inspiration to us all.

Bruiser the Cruiser: Our Four-Wheeled Family Member

They say you can’t choose your family, but I beg to differ. Meet Bruiser, our trusty Toyota Land Cruiser. She’s more than just a vehicle; she’s a cornerstone of our lives.

With a powerful 4.2-liter turbo diesel engine under the hood, Bruiser is built for adventure. But it’s her heart, or rather, her history, that truly sets her apart. This Cruiser is like a family member. She’s been there for us through thick and thin,especially during a particularly challenging period in our lives.

We embarked on a family road trip around Australia as I was navigating a significant life change. It was during this journey, on the breathtaking Western Australian coast, that Bruiser became more than just a vehicle. With my wife, Sonia,and our two kids by my side, we found solace and strength in the open road. Bruiser was our steady companion, our reliable home away from home.

She’s a beast on the road, capable of conquering almost any terrain. Sure, she’s a bit of a heavyweight, and steep, muddy hills can be a challenge, but her off-road prowess is undeniable. For years, she was our go-to for carrying delicate equipment around the property, a task she handled with care and precision.

Beyond her capabilities, Bruiser is surprisingly comfortable. She’s got that old-school charm I love, and with good tires,she handles well on any surface. These days, she’s more likely to be hitched up to our camper trailer for family adventures than tackling tough terrain. But even as her role evolves, she remains a cherished part of our family.

I believe Bruiser is destined to become a family heirloom. She’s more than just a car; she’s a symbol of our adventures,our resilience, and our love for the open road.

We’re incredibly grateful for the contributions of Wendy and Bruiser to our retreat. Their hard work and dedication are invaluable, and we look forward to many more adventures together.