FOUR-wheel drivers are revelling in the dirt, power and precision of this weekend's Willowglen Challenge, gaining the support of their toughest critic, the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
The service was traditionally opposed to four-wheel-driving in national parks because it caused erosion and damage, but senior public affairs officer Stuart Cohen said four-wheel-driving groups were becoming more responsible.
''In the past, there were issues with fences being knocked over and so forth, but today, four-wheel-drivers know taking their car out to bash through the bush isn't on,'' he said. ''We find most four-wheel-driving groups are fantastic and very respectful of the parks.''
Challenge organiser Carl La Riviere of the Toyota LandCruiser Club of Australia said, ''Four-wheel-driving is about challenging yourself and your vehicle in a fun, safe way, and we're always very respectful of the environment. Everything we take in comes back out with us.''
The challenge attracts more than 100 people to watch and compete in events involving steep terrain, water and obstacles.
Competition continues today on private property near Tarago.
For more details, go to www.tlcc.com.au