In 1997 a group of concerned 4W Drivers met to see what could be done by users to assist in maintaining the sustainability of popular tracks. From that meeting, Track Care WA Inc (TCWA) was born.

With a charter of dedication to the care and preservation of 4WD tracks and their environs throughout Western Australia, TCWA has succeeded in galvanizing the conscience of recreational 4W Drivers into one of stewardship for the tracks they enjoy. TCWA’s first project was a major clean-up of the Canning Stock Route. Volunteers and funding came from all over Australia to clear rubbish and repair tracks. A self composting toilet was installed at Durba Springs, thanks to funds raised by donation. Well 6 (Pierre Spring) now also has a self composting toilet thanks to volunteer effort and the support of businesses within the 4WD industry. The Holland Track, between Hyden and Coolgardie, was next when the Toyota Land Cruiser Club of WA adopted the track with TCWA’s assistance and instituted a monitoring and maintenance program which has kept this popular route in excellent condition.

Closer to Perth many 4WD tracks have received attention with working bees to repair tracks, clear rubbish from their environs and erect Code of Conduct signs.

This activity has now developed into a structured process called the Track Adoption Programme, launched in early 2007. An initiative of TCWA and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), the programme provides for formal adoption of a given area by clubs or interested groups. Typical activities include rubbish clean-ups, track maintenance and sign erection. TCWA provides organizational and logistic support, including media coverage, funding for signs and volunteers for working bees. DEC’s role includes initial approvals, environmental analysis, funding (when available) and supply of machinery, materials and manpower for agreed projects.
This has been a resounding success to date, with several clubs signing up to adopt tracks under threat of closure. Your group’s assistance in this programme would be most welcome.

A key aspect of TCWA’s work has been education. Our Code of Conduct signs and promotion through the media have spread the caring word. TCWA has seen results already from the educational approach as tracks monitored have surprisingly little rubbish considering the traffic.

People do care and are showing this by taking their rubbish out and considering the environment when passing through.

A Memorandum of  Understanding binds TCWA, the 4WD Association of WA and DEC to a working relationship, where consultation over management planning and access issues are workshopped on a regular basis.

The future accessibility of off road destinations in WA is squarely in the hands of the users and as a user, TCWA needs your support. Whether it is in the form of a donation, membership or volunteering for Adoption working bees or simply taking out your rubbish and following the Code of Conduct.
Every little bit helps the big picture. And the picture will get bigger as greater numbers head for the bush.

Please take a moment to consider an investment of time or funding in the future of your chosen recreation. Help TCWA help the environment. It’s depending on all of us.