STRAP IN FOR ACTION

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an outback tourer, knowing how to recover a stuck vehicle safely and effectively is one of the most essential skills in four-wheel driving.

That’s why one of the must-see features at this year’s National 4x4 & Outdoors Show in Melbourne is the live winch recovery demonstration, presented by the experienced training team from Four Wheel Drive Victoria, in collaboration with recovery gear innovators Saber Offroad.

This practical and engaging session is designed to give you real-world insight into the safe use of winches and recovery gear, with a strong focus on safety, planning, and correct technique.

This session is ideal for both newcomers and experienced drivers looking to refresh their skills and gain hands-on knowledge of modern recovery methods.


 

LEARN QUICK FACTS

 

 


 

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE

 

 


 

4 SESSIONS DAILY

 

 


 

PRACTICAL INSIGHTS

 

 

 

What you will learn at the Recovery Demos Melbourne 4x4 Show

ASSESSMENT

Assessing the situation before deciding if a winch is even necessary. This critical step at the beginning of your problem solving is key.

SELECTING & INSPECTING

Your recovery gear, including winch ropes, tree trunk protectors, soft shackles, and recovery rings. Understanding Working Load Limits.

TECHNIQUES

Understanding load reduction techniques, including the use of snatch blocks/recovery rings and double line and complex pulls. Getting the most out of mechanical advantage

PLANNING

How to plan your recovery set-up and identify appropriate anchor points, exclusion 
zones. Ensuring you set yourself up for success!

OPERATING

Learn safe operating procedures, including cable dampener placement, winch control 
safety, communication and bystander exclusion zones.

GEAR CARE

Post-recovery inspections and gear care, ensuring your equipment is always ready  when you need it, and what to look out for if damaged.


RECOVERY DEMOS 2026 SCHEDULE

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10:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
11:30
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
13:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
14:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
10:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
11:30
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
13:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
14:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
10:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
11:30
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
13:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …
14:00
  1. Main Arena
    30 mins
    A winch can get you out of trouble - or into it - depending on how you use it. This demo breaks down the risks, the techniques, and the gear you need to recover safely and effectively. You’ll leave wi …

THANKS TO OUR RECOVERY DEMO SUPPORTERS

Four Wheel Drive Victoria (4WDV)

With over three decades of experience and national accreditation, 4WDV delivers practical, real-world training grounded in safety and environmental responsibility.

Saber Offroad

Australian owned and independently tested, Saber’s modern recovery gear is built to perform where it counts. Lighter, stronger, safer - this is the new standard in 4WD recovery equipment.