MJOC Code of Ethics

Since the club first started way back in 1997, the members of the Melbourne Jeep Owners Club have always endeavoured to follow the 4WD Code of Ethics from 4WD Victoria and the Tread Lightly principles.

To further emphasise and encourage our members to keep this code in mind when visiting the bush and on club trips and events the committee have revisited the code and revised it to create our own to better portray the clubs image and to remind members of the importance of caring for the environment to ensure we continue to enjoy it for future generations.



Our continued access to our four wheel drive tracks that traverse forrests, parks, deserts and public lands. To ensure we continue to enjoy our visits to these often fragile or environmentally sensitive areas we need to ensure that we do the right thing when out in the bush, especially on club trips and events.

Things you can do

As Jeep drivers we stand out so make sure we set a good example to others.

Leave no trace of your visit - Take out what you take in

Clean up rubbish left by others - we dont want to be blamed for the mess left by others.

Where possible clear tracks as you go and report hazards such as large trees or land slips to land managers

Dont make new tracks or drive around obstacles - its illegal.

Minimize wheel spin and get recovered rather than damage tracks

Respect the bush, Drive responsibly

If we abuse or damage the bush or tracks we will be locked out.

Follow the MJOC Code of Ethics

Tread Lightly Principles

The Tread Lightly Principles were developed in America to educate recreational users in caring for the environment and to assist in keeping areas and trails open for public use. The key principle being if we dont care for the environment we will be restricted or locked out of these areas.

Travel Responsibly

on land by staying on designated roads, trails and area. Go over, not around, obstacles to avoid widening the trails. Cross streams only at designated fords. when possible, avoid wet, muddy trails. On water, stay on designated waterways and launch your watercraft in designated areas.

Respect the Rights of Others

including private property owners, all recreational trail users, campers and others so they can enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed. Leave gates as you found them. Yield right of way to those passing you or going uphill. On water, respect anglers, swimmers, skiers, boaters, divers and those on or near shore.

Educate Yourself

prior to your trip by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies. Plan for your trip, take recreation skills classes and know how to operate your equipment safely.

Avoid Sensitive Areas

on land such as meadows, lake shores, wetlands and streams. Always ride with caution any time water is present. Wet soils are more susceptible to damage. Riding along river and stream beds causes erosion and habitat destruction. Stay on designated routes. This protects wildlife habitats and sensitive soils from damage. Don’t disturb historical, archeological or paleontological sites. On water, avoid operating your watercraft in shallow waters or near shorelines at high speeds.

Do Your Part

by modeling appropriate behavior, leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species and repairing degraded areas.