Image
📣 March Offer

Free Roadside Assistance for new 4X4 policies until 31st March 2026

News

A Chat with Michael Ellem

He’s one of the gentlemen of the 4X4 Industry, and one of the best known photographers in the 4X4 industry, having covered everything from off-road events like Tough Truck to product shoots for some of …

Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Aug 26 2021

Aug 26 2021

Image

He’s one of the gentlemen of the 4X4 Industry, and one of the best known photographers in the 4X4 industry, having covered everything from off-road events like Tough Truck to product shoots for some of Australia’s best known 4X4 brands.

Despite his success, Michael is one of the most down to earth blokes you’ll meet. He really cares about people, and this is obvious in the amount of time he dedicates to talking to the public at 4X4 shows or even those that he encounters on the tracks or on the road.

His current camera vehicle, the Mighty 79, is one of the most well known 79 series vehicles in the country and was purpose built to support his ability to travel to remote destinations to capture the magic imagery that he is known for.

It keeps him off-grid for extended periods when required, and also keeps all of his gear stored, charged, secure and easily accessible.

And yes, it has a Coffee machine (although having been out with Michael and seeing how much he enjoys his coffee and how many times he has a brew every day I can hand on heart say that the inclusion is not a gimmick, but an important part of Michael’s setup).

Our GM Kalen recently got the chance (prior to lockdowns) to get out and corner Michael for a chat about his work and his trucks (he also has a very tidy 60 series). For your viewing pleasure below…

Aiden

Image
Club 4X4 Insurance
Blog

Discover other stories

View all

Warm up with weekly articles aimed at adventure

Gibb River Road, WA. Toyota LandCruiser

Trips & Destinations

Planning the Gibb River Road? 4WD Prep & What to Expect

There are road trips, and then there’s the Gibb River Road. Stretching 660 kilometres through the heart of the Kimberley, this iconic 4WD journey delivers rugged landscapes, remote gorges, and unforgettable outback experiences. In this guide, Bush and Bay share everything you need to know to plan your Gibb River Road adventure in 2026, from road conditions and camping to vehicle prep and must-see highlights.

Read more  

There are road trips, and then there’s the Gibb River Road. Stretching 660 kilometres through the heart of the Kimberley, this iconic 4WD journey delivers rugged landscapes, remote gorges, and unforgettable outback experiences. In this guide, Bush and Bay share everything you need to know to plan your Gibb River Road adventure in 2026, from road conditions and camping to vehicle prep and must-see highlights.

William Bay, WA, Australia. Turquoise water of ocean surrounded with rough formations with person

Trips & Destinations

From Granite Peaks to Weathered Monoliths: Australia’s Grey Giants

Australia’s grey landscapes are defined by granite monoliths, coastal rock formations and weathered stone shaped over millions of years. Subtle but striking, these destinations offer unique textures, dramatic backdrops and rewarding stops for those exploring by 4WD.

Read more  

Australia’s grey landscapes are defined by granite monoliths, coastal rock formations and weathered stone shaped over millions of years. Subtle but striking, these destinations offer unique textures, dramatic backdrops and rewarding stops for those exploring by 4WD.

The Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, WA

Trips & Destinations

From Corner Country to the Kimberley, Australia Glows in Orange

Sitting between red deserts and golden coastlines, Australia’s orange landscapes deliver some of the country’s most photogenic scenery. Think striped sandstone domes, coastal cliffs and glowing rock formations best seen at sunrise or sunset.

Read more  

Sitting between red deserts and golden coastlines, Australia’s orange landscapes deliver some of the country’s most photogenic scenery. Think striped sandstone domes, coastal cliffs and glowing rock formations best seen at sunrise or sunset.

View all