April 3, 2019
National 4×4 Outdoors Show
In the lead up to the National 4×4 Outdoors Show, Fishing & Boating Expo, we talk to one of their guest speakers Andrew Ucles.
Brisbane’s leading event for all things outdoors will be held at the Brisbane Showgrounds, running from 5-7 April 2019.
Andrew is a 31-year old Australian he’s a naturalist, documentarian, conservationist, wildlife adventurer and animal lover. He has spent his entire life exploring his curiosity of engaging with animals not just here in Australia, but across the world.
Andrew has a Siberian Husky named Zoro who is 13 years old who he describes as being like a “king”.
What can people expect from your talk at the show?
Firstly, one takeaway will be what not to do in the Australian Outback. I’ve nearly died a hundred times. I’ve been in some really serious situations not just here in Australia but in different places across the world. So, there are two parts I will be discussing in my presentation, Part A what not to do, and Part B how to prepare for an outback trip to make sure nothing goes wrong and to minimise risk.
What would be your best tip for people considering going on an Outback camping trip?
So, it’s all to do with preparation. Learn about the destination you are going to, have a good detailed up-to-date map, make sure your vehicle is serviced, check your oil and water and that you’re carrying not just extra fuel but extra water as well. Other considerations are to make sure you’ve got a first aid kit, make sure you’ve got reliable communications, so if you’re going remote make sure you have a satellite phone. Do you have a GPS device on your phone? What are your contingencies if you break down or get lost? Other points are to know your fuel stops as well, particularly, if you are going out in the bush, and tell people where you are going whether that’s your parents or your friends, and do an update on social media. One strong takeaway for people, that I do myself now, is that you can actually turn on your Google sharing app, which you can share with other people, and they can actually know where you are at any one time.
In your opinion, what is the best outback experience in Australia?
I would say to do the trip across the interior of Australia – go to the top end whether it be the Northern Territory or the Kimberleys – and explore the top end in the dry season.
Why is it important for us to disconnect from technology?
I have always said that when you reclaim a relationship with nature you discover who you are and what you are in relation to the environment around you – because we are all a part of the environment. It’s important to get out there and be with nature, it’s where we are supposed to be. Every now and then people need to have a digital detox.
If you take your pet into the great outdoors, what is one thing people should be mindful of?
The first thing that comes to mind is to be aware of where you can and can’t take your pet. I know there are a lot of national parks around Australia where dogs aren’t allowed. The second one is to be mindful of other people, some people are cautious of some dog breeds when they are out there in the bush, and if your dog gets lost in the bush, think of the consequences of that and make sure that you keep them leashed.
You can catch Andrew at the Show in Brisbane which will be jam-packed with entertainment for the entire family, with thousands of products and deals on displays and plenty of interactive features and activities throughout the three-day event.
Where: 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills QLD 4006
When: 5-7 April 2019, Friday and Saturday 9am to 6pm; Sunday 9am to 5pm.