As we head toward the end of the four-wheeling season, I feel it is time to share updates and see where the club wants to go next. It’s been a great season, with new members, some old members back, and lots of memories made.
That being said, the state of four-wheel sports in Ontario is in flux. The ORV (ATV clubs) are pushing to implement a licensing model for accessing all trails in the province. They would manage licensing and determine which trails are usable. They’ve done this without any input from OF4WD or local four-wheel clubs.
It’s very important that we, as a club, encourage our members and others using the trails to sign up for an OF4WD membership. They are the voice for four-wheeling in Ontario, and while the four-wheeling community is large, OF4WD only has about 1300 members. Compared to 10k+ members in ORV groups, as well as various conservation and land ownership groups, we look politically insignificant.
Now comes the sales pitch for Durham 4×4 Off-Road. Yes, we are still rebuilding after the pandemic and drama that ran through the club. We aren’t as big as some of the other Central Ontario clubs, but here’s where we shine:
- We are inclusive – you don’t have to have a Jeep to be a club member. You need a four-wheel-drive highway vehicle or a trailerable rig, and be over 18 years of age. That’s it.
- We encourage people to come out and enjoy coffee weekly (the only central club that holds a weekly coffee meet-up), and talk rigs and experience.
- Members have the tools and knowledge to help less experienced four-wheelers with upgrades, repairs, and general knowledge.
- We will go out of our way to ensure no one is left behind or stuck on a trail.
- Discounted membership to OF4WD – access to maps of Ontario trails, updates on trail conditions, liability insurance for Durham 4×4 Off-Road members and most importantly, advocacy for our sport!
- Discounted supplies and parts at Partsman.
October represents the end of the current board’s term. I really want to see members come forward to run for positions. With more leadership, we can go back to planning and running more events, and not just Trail Runs. Advocate with local dealerships for introduction/newbie runs, more sponsors/discounts, and a club gathering every other month.
Finally, two announcements!
- If you sign up for the club before December, we are offering a discounted membership of $15 for the year.
- For the new year, we are lowering the membership price from $25/year to $20/year. The club still has expenses, but we want to encourage more people to join in on the fun.
Keep your rig wheels down, and enjoy the fall!
