THE BEE’S KNEES

There’s no equivalent to the demented goat tracks of the Victorian High Country within a stone’s throw of the Malls Balls, but that doesn’t mean there’s no offroad fun to be had around Adelaide. Purpose-built tracks exist at JAKEM Farm and Eagle View, and short-lived bursts of ruts and washed-out climbs dot the forestry roads at Mount Crawford. Us South Aussies can still hang our four-wheel drive’s diffs up, if we so desire; it’s just less likely down here as we’re better at picking lines.

I’m an absolute sucker for the pine-scented air and crackle of dried needles underfoot at Mount Crawford. Breathing here is like performing a prohibited yoga move conducive to ultimate wellbeing. I’m sure we could all do with a dose of air like this right now, but sadly, many of us are trapped indoors as we self-isolate, practice social distancing and potentially enter lockdown. It’s essential to know that this outside world, sentried by rainbow lorikeets, crimson rosellas and pink cockatoos, is sitting in place, ready for us come back in more favourable times.

I caught up with Bailey Winen of Maverick Campers at Mount Crawford in the earlier days of the pandemic. From 1.5 metres away, Bailey told me that, while Maverick have been fortunate, the industry faces huge challenges due to supply issues and economic downturn. He said that the brand, for their part, swiftly implemented stringent measures, at home and overseas, to ensure safety for