Q: Do I have to own a 4WD vehicle to join the Ballarat 4WD Club?

A: No. You can join as a social member and participate in Club activities. The Club has a strong social calendar and if you would like to participate in trips, other members may be able to take you.

Q: I only have a soft roader. Can I still participate in trips?

A: Quite a number of trips are conducted in easy conditions suitable for soft roaders. The driver training will teach you how to choose what trips and situations are suitable for your vehicle.

Q: Does the Club only do trips in the Ballarat area?

A: The Club conducts trips all over Australia . Trips range from afternoon outings to several months. Refer to the events calendar to identify trips that are being conducted in the near future.

Q: What do I have to do to become a full member of the Ballarat 4WD Club?

A: You need to complete driver training (exemptions may be granted based on other training or experience), attend 4 meetings and participate in 2 trips to be eligible to gain full membership.

Q: The media often portray four wheel drives and their owners as environmental vandals and petrol heads. Is the Ballarat 4WD Club like this?

A: The Ballarat 4WD Club promotes responsible use of Public Land and a caring attitude to the environment. Our members are normal people from all walks of life, some are passionate about their vehicles, other just use them as means to get to beautiful places. The Club has a social focus and attracts people who like to get out and enjoy our environment. We are also proactive in environmental responsibility, we promote the Tread Lightly philosophy, we offer a nationally recognized driver training program, we are actively involved in environmental clean up and tree planting events, and we support bushfire assistance and other community projects.

Q: I have a 4WD and wish to learn more about its capabilities. How can I do this?

A: Membership of our Club entitles you to free training for you and your partner. Our Club trainers are accredited by the VFWDA, so your certificate is recognised throughout Australia.

Q: How much does it cost to join Ballarat 4WD Club?

A: Please contact our membership office ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) to get the latest details.

Q: Can I hire the Training Track at Smythesdale?

A: Yes. For charges and conditions please refer to the Track Hire page (Training Track - Hire under FAQs) Hire and contact our membership officer ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) to join and receive your training as part of your membership.

Q: Can I advertise my business in the Ballarat District 4WD Club's newsletter and website?

A: Yes. For charges and conditions please read our Advertising Schedule details and our Sponsorship Schedule details pages.

Our Supporters and Sponsors

These sponsors support us, so we support them.