Horizons by RAC Podcast

RAC WA
  • 0.0 (0)
  • AUTOMOTIVE
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Horizons by RAC podcast puts a WA-focus on a range of issues impacting how we live, work and travel around our cities and towns, from the cost of motoring to the new technologies and social trends that are shaping our future.

  1. FEB 3

    #18 From Electrician to Explorer: One man’s mission to visit all 656 WA small towns!

    We’ve all had a crack at a Western Australian road trip, but how many of us have tried to visit every single town on the map? Meet the WA photographer who’s doing exactly that. Myke Bartlett sits down with Aaron Green — an electrician by trade and the man behind Lands Unseen, an ambitious solo mission to document every town and ghost town in WA! From well-known regional centres to barely marked dots on the map, Aaron is chasing down more than 600 small towns across WA! From navigating bushfires and camping solo beneath WA’s vast night skies, to meeting locals who live and breathe their communities, this conversation dives deep into exploration, resilience, and the beauty of slowing down. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:15 Aaron's Journey of Self-Discovery 03:32 Learning the Hard Lessons 05:12 Exploring Small Towns 11:35 The Troop Carrier Upgrade 14:40 Life on the Road 25:38 Hidden Gems in WA 29:31 Memorable Characters and Community Passion 31:48 Top Five Small Towns to Visit 33:55 Unexpected Discoveries in Esperance 36:45 The Charm of Muck and Surrounding Areas 37:53 Ghost Towns and Historical Trails 40:03 Simple Pleasures: Best Meals and Bakeries 43:28 Tips for Aspiring Road Trippers 51:24 The Journey of Self-Discovery Guest: Aaron Green, Lands Unseen www.instagram.com/lands.unseen Subscribe and share  If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family.     Find us online: Website: ⁠www.rac.com.au/horizons⁠   YouTube: ⁠ www.youtube.com/horizonsrac⁠  Instagram:   www.instagram.com/racwa   Facebook:   www.facebook.com/racwa   Legal disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    53 min

  2. JAN 19

    #17 Doing the math on home batteries: Everything WA households need to know

    As grid electricity prices continue to rise and governments look to accelerate home battery adoption through subsidies and incentives, many households are asking the same question: does investing in solar and battery storage really pay off? On this episode of the Horizons by RAC podcast, Jason and Bronson unpack how modern solar and battery systems work, what’s changed in recent years, and the key factors to consider before making the switch. Guests: Jason Skodt and Bronson Davies - Directors of Unplugged Energy and Perth Solar Force RAC has partnered with Unplugged Energy to help deliver savings to its members, learn more here: https://rac.com.au/membership-benefits/discounts-and-special-offers/member-benefit-unplugged-energy Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Home Energy Storage  00:58 Understanding Home Battery Systems  02:52 Financial Benefits and Government Rebates  05:35 Market Trends and Future Prospects  09:12 Technical Considerations for Homeowners  17:53 Virtual Power Plants and Grid Stability  29:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Subscribe and share: If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family. Find us online: Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons  YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@horizonsrac   Instagram:   www.instagram.com/racwa     Facebook:   www.facebook.com/racwa       Legal disclaimer:  The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC. RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    33 min

  3. 12/19/2025

    #16 One Wrong Step: injured and trapped in the Stirling Ranges, an RAC Rescue story

    Hikers Robyn and Patrick share a firsthand account of a multi-day hike along the Stirling Range ridge that took an unexpected turn. One small misstep led to an injury that saw Robyn onboard RAC Rescue, they join us to share their story. The RAC Rescue helicopters are sponsored by RAC, funded by the State Government and managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). Guests: Robyn Boulet and Patrick Carter – hikers from Perth, Western Australia 00:00 Introduction 01:12 Training and Preparation for the "Half Ridge" Hike 05:53 The Weight of a Hiker's Pack: What to Carry 07:35 The "Snap": Robyn Describes Her Horrific Ankle Injury 10:07 Emergency First Aid and Stabilising the Injury 15:57 The Mental Game: Using Box Breathing to Stay Calm 20:25 The Rescue: The Crew Arrive 39:56 Lessons Learned: Why You Should Never Underestimate the Ridge Subscribe and share: If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family. Find us online: Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@horizonsrac   Instagram:   www.instagram.com/racwa   Facebook:   www.facebook.com/racwa   Legal disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    44 min

  4. 12/08/2025

    #15 What's the future of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in WA? We talk to Hyundai's Senior Manager of Future Mobility

    As Western Australia transitions toward cleaner transport, EVs continue to dominate the conversation. But according to Hyundai’s Senior Manager of Future Mobility, Scott Nargar, the road ahead won’t be powered by a single technology. Hydrogen is likely to play a crucial complementary role, particularly in a country as vast and freight-reliant as ours. Guest: Scott Nargar, Hyundai Motor Company Australia - Senior Manager of Future Mobility and Government Relations 00:00 Introduction to Hydrogen Vehicles 00:39 Hydrogen's Potential in Australia's Transport 01:52 Understanding Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology 05:31 Current Market and Infrastructure Challenges 08:49 Hydrogen vs. Electric Vehicles: A Comparative Analysis 16:23 Safety and Public Perception of Hydrogen Vehicles 18:36 Hydrogen's Role in WA and Future Prospects 25:10 Collaborative Efforts and Infrastructure Development 30:18 Redundancy in Hydrogen Infrastructure 33:11 Modular and Scalable Hydrogen Stations 36:14 Hyundai NEXO: The Flagship Hydrogen Vehicle 38:56 Hydrogen Vehicles in Government and Industry 44:50 Hydrogen Society and Future Prospects 48:35 Government Support and Policy for Hydrogen 51:08 Future of Hydrogen and EVs in Australia 56:04 Conclusion and Industry Evolution Subscribe and share: If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family. Find us online:  Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HorizonsRAC   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racwa/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racwa/  Legal disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    1h 1m

  5. 11/24/2025

    #14 Ex-SAS Officer’s Outback Survival Guide: Critical Tips for 4WDers and Hikers in WA

    Western Australia is a paradise for lovers of the outdoors, our diverse beauty, rugged landscape and isolated coastlines are unmatched. But it’s also most unforgiving.   The heat can cripple you within hours, help can be hundreds of kilometres away and poor preparation is the number one cause of preventable emergencies.    So, what should you do if you find yourself stranded or lost?    To help answer these questions, on this episode of the Horizons by RAC podcast we’re joined by Terry Hewett, former Special Forces Soldier, Order of Australia medal recipient, and founder of Adventure Out Australia. 00:00 Introduction to Western Australia's Wilderness 00:37 Meet Terry Hewett: Survival Expert 01:01 The Allure of Remote Places 04:04 Lessons from the Elders 06:44 From Military to Survival Instructor 08:52 Understanding Bushcraft vs. Survival 14:50 The Importance of Preparation 18:24 Water and Survival in Harsh Environments 26:28 Fire: A Key Survival Skill 29:00 Visibility and Rescue Techniques 33:44 Lessons from the Military 34:21 Planning Your First Off-Road Trip 37:20 Common Mistakes in Off-Roading 46:24 The Importance of Staying with Your Vehicle 50:11 Hiking in Remote Areas 01:02:23 The Appeal of Bushcraft and Survival Skills 01:07:14 Final Thoughts and Advice Subscribe and share  If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family.     Find us online: Website: ⁠https://rac.com.au/horizons⁠   YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HorizonsRAC⁠  Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/racwa/⁠  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/racwa/⁠  Legal disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    1h 10m

  6. 11/10/2025

    #13 Diabetes, Awareness and Fatigue | How Your Sleep Affects More Than Just Your Driving

    Driver fatigue is a term often associated with those spending long hours behind the wheel, such as drivers in the freight industry and those undertaking long road trips, whether for leisure or work. But driving a vehicle while impacted by sleep loss is a much wider issue in the community, including over short distances. The Sleep Health Foundation estimates that more than half of Australian adults are suffering from at least one chronic sleep symptom. And almost half (48%) of all Australian adults report at least two sleep-related problems according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. It follows that the number of drivers on our roads who are operating a vehicle while affected by sleep loss must also be high. To talk through the impacts of poor-quality and inadequate sleep on those operating a vehicle, we spoke with Dr Nicholas Mabbott, Director of Beyond Midnight Consulting with over 25 years’ experience in sleep and fatigue management. 00:00 Understanding Driver Fatigue  00:51 The Importance of Quality Sleep  01:02 The Science Behind Sleep Cycles  01:52 The Impact of Poor Sleep on Health  02:44 Strategies for Better Sleep  05:57 The Role of Melatonin and Body Clock  14:15 Driving and Sleep Deprivation  27:35 The Impact of Passengers on Driver Fatigue  29:01 Holiday Driving Risks and Tips  30:07 Planning for Safe Long Drives  36:56 The Role of Technology in Fatigue Management  40:49 The Importance of Sleep Hygiene  51:44 Managing Fatigue During the Holidays  53:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Guest  Dr Nicholas Mabbott, Director of Beyond Midnight Consulting  www.youtube.com/@drnicholasmabbott7549 Subscribe and share   If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family.       Find us online Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HorizonsRAC   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racwa/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racwa/      Legal disclaimer   The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    55 min

  7. 10/13/2025

    #12 Forgetting kids and pets in cars: how it happens and how to prevent it

    We’re in our cars every day — to work, school, the shops — and most of the time, we don’t even think about getting there. Our minds switch to autopilot. But sometimes, all it takes is a moment’s distraction or a break in routine, and that autopilot can short-circuit leading to a child or pet being left behind in the car. And when it’s hot, the temperature inside a vehicle can double in minutes, with devastating consequences. It’s not as uncommon as you might think. Here in WA, RAC Roadside Assistance rescued 585 children and pets from locked cars this past year. And it’s not just kids and animals — some adults have had to be rescued too, after accidentally locking themselves inside their vehicle. To shed some light on why this happens, and what’s being done to prevent it, we chatted to Professor Warren Mansell from Curtin University, and RAC Roadside Patrol Mark Dring, who’s seen these rescues firsthand. 00:00 The Reality of Leaving Kids and Pets in Cars 01:00 Why Do We Forget? 01:26 The Brain's Automation and Everyday Life 04:12 Real-Life Rescue Examples 07:23 How Quickly Cars Heat Up 10:39 Preventing Lock-Ins 25:52 How Technology and Routine can Help 32:53 What to Do if You See a Child or Pet Locked in a Car Guests Warren Mansell – Professor of Mental Health, Curtin UniversityMark Dring – RAC Roadside Patrol Subscribe and share If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family. Find us online Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HorizonsRAC  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racwa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racwa/ Legal disclaimer The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    34 min

  8. 09/15/2025

    #11 How do WA's new AI-powered road safety cameras work?

    From illegal mobile phone use and unrestrained kids to spot speeding, unlicensed vehicles, even caravans pushing past the 100km limit — Western Australia’s new road safety cameras are watching it all. Rolled out in January this year and powered by the latest AI technology, they’ve already snapped more than 275,000 drivers doing the wrong thing. In this episode, we sit down with the WA Road Safety Commission's Acting Director of Innovation and Technology, Matthew Samson, to break down how the technology works and what trends are emerging since the rollout. From 8 October, fines and demerit points will apply for mobile phone, seatbelt and speeding offences detected by the new safety cameras. Any money from the fines from these new cameras will be spent on improving road safety through the Road Trauma Trust Account. (0:00) Introduction to WA's New Road Safety Cameras (0:47) Types of Road Safety Cameras (1:47) Multifunction Trailers and Freeway Units (7:08) AI Technology in Road Safety (8:16) Still Checked by Humans (10:57) Common Offences Detected by the Cameras (17:41) Unusual and Dangerous Behaviour on the Road (20:25) Public Awareness and Behaviour Changes (22:49) Fines and Penalties (24:27) Camera Locations and Deployment (28:51) Regional vs. Metro Offences (32:03) Where the Fine Money Goes (35:22) Public Perception and Misconceptions (39:08) Final Thoughts and Advice Guest Matthew Samson - WA Road Safety Commission, Acting Director of Innovation and Technology Subscribe and share If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family. Find us online Website: https://rac.com.au/horizons    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HorizonsRAC   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racwa/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/racwa/ Legal disclaimer  The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.

    40 min
See All (19)

Trailer

About

The Horizons by RAC podcast puts a WA-focus on a range of issues impacting how we live, work and travel around our cities and towns, from the cost of motoring to the new technologies and social trends that are shaping our future.

Information

You Might Also Like