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

Chery Stockman x IRONMAN 4X4 mods announced

News

Chery Stockman Scores IRONMAN 4X4 Accessories Before Launch

The Chery Stockman is already turning heads as Australia's first diesel plug-in hybrid ute, and now it's getting the accessories to match. IRONMAN 4X4 has confirmed a full range of touring and off-road gear, from bull bars and canopies to suspension and GVM upgrades.

Read more  

The Chery Stockman is already turning heads as Australia's first diesel plug-in hybrid ute, and now it's getting the accessories to match. IRONMAN 4X4 has confirmed a full range of touring and off-road gear, from bull bars and canopies to suspension and GVM upgrades.

A man and a 4WD in Australia's outback

Reviews & Comparisons

Are Modern 4X4s Too Complicated?

Modern 4WDs can conquer terrain that would've stopped older vehicles in their tracks, but they've also become far more complex. From common rail diesels to traction control and electric drivetrains, we explore whether today's technology is making our 4WDs better or simply harder to understand and repair.

Read more  

Modern 4WDs can conquer terrain that would've stopped older vehicles in their tracks, but they've also become far more complex. From common rail diesels to traction control and electric drivetrains, we explore whether today's technology is making our 4WDs better or simply harder to understand and repair.

An 80 Series LandCruiser on a beach with a sunset

Reviews & Comparisons

Toyota LandCruiser 80 Series: What You Need to Know

The Toyota LandCruiser 80 Series is an Aussie 4WD legend, and decades after production ended, good examples are still highly sought after. From the 1HZ and 1HD turbo-diesels to the punchy 1FZ-FE petrol, we break down the engines, common problems, buying checks and worthwhile mods that make the 80 Series such a capable tourer.

Read more  

The Toyota LandCruiser 80 Series is an Aussie 4WD legend, and decades after production ended, good examples are still highly sought after. From the 1HZ and 1HD turbo-diesels to the punchy 1FZ-FE petrol, we break down the engines, common problems, buying checks and worthwhile mods that make the 80 Series such a capable tourer.

View all