I must start with some great news. Open Road recently won a Bell Publishing Award for Best Editorial Issues Campaign. The award was for our article entitled ‘Road Toll Crisis’, which was our cover story for the May/June 2006 issue. At the time the article was published, NSW’s road toll had increased by 25% over the previous year. The article focused on the facts behind the headlines and provided some valuable tips on what you as a motorist could do to improve driver and vehicle safety. The good news continues. In our September/October issue you might recall I announced the launch of Australian Business Auto, a magazine that goes exclusively to NRMA’s BusinesWise customers and is published by NRMA Publishing. Well, ABA (as we fondly call the title here) also won a Bell Publishing Award for Best Business-to-Business Magazine Launch 2006.

In this issue, the winning theme continues with our coverage of Australia’s Best Cars Awards for 2006. Lexus and Volkswagen each won in three different categories, and Toyota beat the local contenders for Best large car. But I won’t give too much away, I’ll let you turn to page 8 to find out the winners for yourself.

We also take you for a tour around the Apple Isle by motorhome. If you’re into touring, Tassie is a State with so much to offer, even more so when you opt to take your accommodation with you. And, if you are a caravan or motorhome enthusiast, or thinking about getting one for the first time, then look out for Australian Caravan + RV, NRMA Publishing’s latest publication. Due out in March, it’s a very practical guide with lots of travel ideas, lifestyle features, and great tips and advice on new and second-hand vehicles. If you would like to subscribe, turn to page 43 for our special offer of a one-year subscription for only $19.

Finally, remember to take care on the roads during the holiday season. It’s time to leave the rushing around behind and just slow down, both on and off the roads.