Abstract: BACKGROUND to research: On track is an interdisciplinary research project, with partners from Desert Knowledge CRC, CSIRO, Charles Darwin, Murdoch, JCU and Curtin Universities, aims to improve the capacity of desert settlements to provide viable 4WD tourism products while protecting cultural, social and natural values. AIMS of research: An exploratory study to understand club members 4WD drive experiences, motivations, activities, trip planning,best & worst experiences & trip improvements, and some general socio-demographic information METHODOLOGY: STAGE 1: Focus group with 15 4WD Victoria club members in February 2006. The results were used to develop a 4 page self-administered survey. STAGE 2: Data collected between July and September 2006. Surveys were distributed with the help of 4WD Victoria to their club members. 190 completed surveys were returned, representing a 33% response rate.