Log in to our new Customer Portal

24/7 access to your policy, documents and claims

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

First aid kit laid out for remote 4WD travel

Expert Advice

4WD First Aid Kit Checklist: What to Carry for Outback and Remote Travel

The kit that came with the car is built for a world where the ambulance is ten minutes away. Here's what a real 4WD first aid kit needs for remote travel: the base checklist, the snake bite gear most kits skimp on, the remote-area extras, and where to keep it so you can actually find it.

Read more  

The kit that came with the car is built for a world where the ambulance is ten minutes away. Here's what a real 4WD first aid kit needs for remote travel: the base checklist, the snake bite gear most kits skimp on, the remote-area extras, and where to keep it so you can actually find it.

Tyre pressure monitoring system sensor on a 4WD tyre valve

Expert Advice

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems for 4WDs and Caravans: Do You Need One and How to Choose

A factory TPMS only watches the four tyres on your 4WD. If you tow or drive remote tracks, an aftermarket system is the one accessory that tells you about a failing tyre before it takes the wheel arch with it. Here's how they work, internal versus external sensors, and what to look for when you buy.

Read more  

A factory TPMS only watches the four tyres on your 4WD. If you tow or drive remote tracks, an aftermarket system is the one accessory that tells you about a failing tyre before it takes the wheel arch with it. Here's how they work, internal versus external sensors, and what to look for when you buy.

A 4WD towing a caravan on an outback track in Australia

Expert Advice

DC to DC Charger Explained: What It Does, Whether You Need One and How to Choose

If your 4WD is newer than about 2012 or you run a lithium battery, a plain isolator will never fully charge your second battery. Here's what a DC to DC charger does, how to size it, where it goes and the wiring mistakes that cost people their charge rate.

Read more  

If your 4WD is newer than about 2012 or you run a lithium battery, a plain isolator will never fully charge your second battery. Here's what a DC to DC charger does, how to size it, where it goes and the wiring mistakes that cost people their charge rate.

View all