Q: How did you get into 4WDing?
I learned to drive on our cherry farm in a Suzuki LJ50. The first 4X4 I bought was a Series IIA Land Rover, and I was hooked from there.
Q: How many 4X4’s have you owned?
Umm, this is slightly embarrassing. About 30.
Q: What’s your favourite thing to do when you aren’t busy filming or wheeling for work?
Travel to cold places out of tourist season with my family. See the Northern Lights, drive up glaciers – that sorta thing.
Q: What’s your hidden talent?
Singing. I’ve sung at the Opera House and in a few musicals, but not for a while!
Q: What are you the worst at?
Driving slowly.
Q: What do you think has made Pat Callinan’s 4X4 Adventures so successful?
Viewers always tell me they love the tips – how to winch, how to drive in strange situations. But I’d like to think they also love the way we keep on finding new and awesome spots. Our focus on our viewers is what really drives me, cause if they’re not happy or watching, then I’m unemployed!
Q: Where haven’t you been yet, but are keen to explore?
Bilbunya Dunes in W.A. They’re the tallest dunes in Australia, but I’ve not managed to conquer them yet (despite driving past their front door!)
Q: Favourite 4X4 destination?
Toss-up between Ningaloo Station in WA, and Tassie. But then, there’s the East Kimberley, Vic High Country – this question should be banned.
Q: Most useful 4X4 accessory you’ve ever owned?
It’s either the shovel or the fridge.
Q: Least useful 4X4 accessory you’ve ever owned?
Ground anchor for winching. Turned out to be a good plough though!
Q: Most epic trip you’ve ever done and why?
Finding the geographic centre of the Simpson Desert. Cross-country, no tracks and arrived at midnight.
Q: What’s the best thing about being insured with Club 4X4?
Knowing you’re actually covered. Accessories, glass cover, silly remote recoveries – the works burger. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely for me.
