Table of contents for Issue 639 in Caravan World

REGULARS NEWS The Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) has released its industry road map, a five-point strategy to help guide caravan parks through a hard market cycle in the insurance industry. Working with the insurance industry and key national bodies, the CIAA is embracing risk mitigation, data-driven and technology approaches to answer insurance challenges in the sector. The industry has recently seen increasing pressure on public liability and property insurance policies which has had a flow-on effect to more than 1400 caravan parks across the country, with many facing large premium increases or either finding it extremely difficult in renewing policies, or in some instances, removing infrastructure assets to maintain cover. CIAA CEO Stuart Lamont said: “We cannot deny the industry has faced challenges of late, as an industry…

LETTER OF THE MONTH Hi John, I've been eagerly reading your magazine (current subscriber) over the last couple of years since the caravan bug began to bite all over again. The upshot is, we expect our shiny new delivery (ATM 2800kg) in a couple of months. As with many caravanners, storage at home is a little tight. Have you folks conducted any reviews of the range of aids for getting caravans in and out of tight spaces? There appears to be a wide range of choices both in price and method. I appreciate most scenarios will be different, but wonder what the experts (i.e., you) think? Thanks, Peter Neilson Hi Peter, Welcome back to the caravanning community and thanks for your letter. The only caravan mover we have reviewed is…

DRIVING ON ROUGH ROADS FEATURE Of all the experiences when travelling our wide red land, corrugations are not the thing anyone looks forward to. A day of driving on corrugations puts even the most hardened traveller, vehicle and van to the test. Is there any way to ease the pain? Ease, yes. Completely solve? No, that's the price you pay to get to some of Australia's remote locations! We have researched and spoken to travel, suspension and tyre experts about the best way to deal with corrugations. “Around the 20-25psi mark is a good start, but it depends on your rig, what you are towing and the state of the road” UNDER PRESSURE The first constant is that lowering tyre pressures helps. It's an imprecise science due to the variations…

NRMA SILVER SCHOOLIES 2023 FEATURE SPONSORED “Silver Schoolies is a week where the Park opens its gates to the young at heart who want to have some fun” Held at the beautiful NRMA Parks and Resorts Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park on NSW's Mid North Coast, Silver Schoolies is an annual week-long themed event where a range of activities are planned out and guests are invited to embrace in the ‘silver schoolies’ theme. And how did this year's action-packed week pan out? It was a Silverbration! SETTING THE SCENE Before we dive into the fun and games, we'd be amiss to not sing the praises of where the event took place. The NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park was our gracious host and organiser of this event, and it was easy to…

WARRNAMBOOL, VIC TRAVEL I wasn't expecting to suddenly find myself face to face with a $4 million peacock but there it is, standing proudly atop a rock, beak raised and brilliant plumage draping to the ground. Okay, it's not an actual living bird but a 1.44-metre-high work of Majolica glazed earthenware, created by England's famous Minton Potteries in the 1870s and now standing pride of place in the museum at Warrnambool's Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village. “If this bird could talk, what would it tell us?” asks the placard beneath it. Probably a scary tale of how it sailed here aboard the doomed clipper Loch Ard in 1878, destined to appear at the opening of Melbourne's Royal Exhibition Building only to sink in a violent storm that killed all but two…

Our recent travels had taken us across from the east coast to Karratha in WA with a group of friends on a journey that had been planned for many months. And while the trip had been minutely organised because of the number of people involved, our plans for where we would head next were vague. Then, looking at a map one night, the idea of returning east across the Savannah Way seemed logical. Promoted by a loose collection of tourism bodies, the journey connects highways and development roads into one of our most exciting and diverse destinations. The road is a ‘choose your own adventure’ odyssey because the journey follows different routes depending on the degree of difficulty you dial in. Despite being part of National Highway 1, some sections…

COONGIE LAKES, SA TRAVEL “Getting to the Coongie Lakes is an adventure in itself” The Innamincka region stands tall in outback legend for its timeless Aboriginal culture, the tragic finale of the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition and the genesis of inland pastoral empires. At the heart of this vast arid landscape lies the internationally renowned freshwater wetlands of the Coongie Lakes. The lakes are remote and not easy to get to, which for many people is a prime attraction. The isolation and untouched beauty of this unique natural environment make it one of Australia's most interesting outback destinations. Off the beaten track Getting to the Coongie Lakes is an adventure in itself. The nearest town (and last stop for fuel and supplies) is the tiny settlement of Innamincka, about…

BOOTS ALL IN COLUMNS Melissa is a 50-something, entrepreneurial, passionate solo female traveller who found herself widowed at the age of 45 and no longer with a partner who she could travel with to her favourite outback destinations. So, she created the opportunity for herself to be able to travel again as a solo woman, working on the road and living her best life. Follow Melissa's travels as she meets other like-minded women from various parts of this country who share the same enthusiasm for life, self-improvement, inspiration and a passion to live this one big, beautiful life that we are gifted with! THE EULO ARTESIAN MUD BATHS When I'm travelling through the beautiful outback countryside, I love nothing more than to be surprised and delighted by the wonderful women…

Happy hour, or sundowners, is an almost compulsory component of the caravanning lifestyle. To be fair, it's best observed in company but in reality, you don't need the distraction of other people to enjoy a drink. A new product from Unbottled Wines might be the perfect company on your next caravanning adventure. The specially selected premium wine travels perfectly and you can pour a single glass without having to worry about the rest of the bottle spoiling or spilling. As the name suggests, Unbottled Wines delivers its selections in 2L boxes ready for use. The one-way spout prevents air entering so, as we proved recently, the wine stays fresh for up to six weeks. Wine in a box isn't new, but company founders Ann Marie Grace and Michael Banks brought…

The Drifter GT – a new grand touring double fold camper trailer – is the latest addition to the Cub Campers lineup and was introduced to the market at the Let's Go SA Caravan & Camping Show in July 2023. Cub Campers released its first double fold camper trailer in 2020 with the release of the Drifter, and it was a standout as the only Australian-made double fold camper on the market, offering camper-lovers the comfort and space of a caravan with the functionality and offroad prowess of a camper trailer. The Drifter GT (Grand Tourer) has now joined this series and is tailored for travellers who want to move at speed in style, safety and comfort in a camper designed specifically for Australian conditions. The Drifter GT incorporates the…

REGULARS NEWS The Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash took home the World Record for the Largest Nutbush Dance from its Queensland counterpart, the Birdsville Big Red Bash, last month. With a record crowd of more than 12,000 festivalgoers, 19 August saw more than half of the fun-loving Mundi Mundi Bash crowd turn up to break the record and support the important work of Royal Flying Doctors (RFDS). A total of 6594 excited festivalgoers side-stepped in sync to the 50-year-old Tina Turner classic hit to take home the world record bragging rights from the Big Red Bash. The 16th of August, earlier that week, was the actual 50th anniversary of the day that the iconic Nutbush hit was first released in 1973. The previous world record of 5838 dancers was set…

WILLOW WARATAH 6249 REVIEWS “It was no surprise that their vans were a sturdy composite construction from the beginning” Willow's move into a vast 2500sq m purpose-built factory last year marked a huge step forward for the relatively young Willow brand. Owners Eddie Wills and Ian Jow turned years of caravan-building experience into their own line of innovative caravans and combined their surnames to create the Willow name. The pair had a total of 45 years of caravan building behind them in the UK, South Africa and Australia when they set up shop in a Pakenham factory in 2018. Both had been critical of the traditional ‘stick and tin’ construction method applied locally, so it was no surprise that their vans were a sturdy composite construction from the beginning. Eddie…

CAPE YORK, QLD TRAVEL “The sheer volume of traffic during the dry season means that a newly graded road can turned corrugated and gnarly in just a few days so it really is pot luck” Cape York. It's on many a traveller's bucket list of must-see destinations. It's a mecca for nomads escaping cold southern winters, families taking advantage of mid-year school holidays and adrenaline-seeking four-wheel drivers. We set off from Melbourne at the end of May towing our Crusader Musketeer Warrior X Country (reviewed in Caravan World issue 638) with a 2018 Holden Trailblazer. Our route was inland up the Newell Highway, with a couple of work and family-related detours, and then across to the Queensland coast at Rockhampton. An estimated 80,000 people visit Far North Queensland (FNQ) each…

OPERATION 200: PART FIVE FEATURE As rugged and reliable as they are, there's a good argument that Toyota's station wagon LandCruiser series was never designed for serious towing or cargo carrying. The 70 Series is a different matter, but the payload capacity of the wagons is limited to cater for up to eight passengers. As highlighted in our features on upgrading our own version, most modified 200s will tip over their allowed gross vehicle mass (GVM). For this reason, we fitted our car with a Tough Dog suspension and a GVM upgrade that significantly increased our carrying capacity. And while that puts us on the right side of the law when loaded, I am concerned about the standard Toyota brakes coping with the extra weight we carry, especially hooked up…

OPTION RV DISTINCTION 18'6 REVIEWS “The Distinction 18'6 has a tare mass of 2260kg, giving a decent payload of 1040kg” I don't live there, but I'm something of a fan of visiting South East Queensland for the Recreational Vehicle (RV) business. Apart from the climate, particularly in wintertime, there's plenty of diversity among the dealers and local manufacturers. Chevallum-based Caravan World is no exception to this, with a good range of caravans on display. When I arrived, my Option RV Distinction 18'6 review caravan was, as always, washed and ready to roll. Well almost. It was time to head off after a slight delay because the seven to 12-pin converter was missing from my Isuzu D-MAX – the Caravan World staff kindly found one in their workshop. On a busy…

WONDERLAND RV AMAROO 1705 REVIEWS Wonderland has forged a well-earned reputation for building vans comprehensively equipped for extended travel across our great country. The manufacturer tends to go big on providing plenty of storage, lots of payload and spacious living. As a result, most of its vans are relatively long and heavy with higher-end price tags. Much of the Wonderland range is also more suited to tow vehicles bigger than a typical 3.5T tow capacity twin cab ute. Hence the Wonderland team tend to get around in big rigs like the Ram shown in the photos here. Make no mistake, Wonderland has hit on a winning formula with its larger vans and there seems to be plenty of American pickups on our roads these days. However, there is always a…

ROAD CLOSURES FEATURE When you've spent months, or longer, planning a much-awaited road trip to an iconic bucket list destination such as the Kimberley or Cape York, an unexpected road closure due to rain or other emergencies can throw your plans into disarray. The majority of travellers will head to the northern states of Australia during the dry season – April to November – to avoid the monsoon rains during the summer months. During the winter dry season, there is little or no rainfall and mild sunny days in the mid to high 20s. It's ideal for caravanning, and some of those iconic offroad routes such as the Gibb River Road or the Peninsula Development Road to the Cape can be as busy as Bourke Street (Melbourne). But in the…

ARK has introduced the world's first 12 pin vehicle socket that automatically checks the trailer lighting electrical system on any trailer connected to the tow vehicle and can warn the user if there is an issue with lighting on the trailer. The new Smart Connector automatically runs a diagnostic on the trailer as soon as the trailer plug is connected. Within 20 seconds it will check and activate the lights on the trailer in sequence giving the user enough time to do a visual check on the trailer lights if they wish to do so. The Smart Connector is also fitted with Bluetooth® technology to pair any IOS or Android devices and will allow the user to run a check at any time they desire – another feature of the…

REGULARS NEWS New Age Caravans recently launched its MY24 range which has started to roll off the production line and head to New Age Caravans dealerships around Australia. From the stylish new redesigned interiors to the striking exterior options, the MY24 range marks a new era for New Age Caravans. The new Road Owl is bigger and better in every way for families, with a new range of products, options, innovation and style available in standard and off-grid Adventure models. And for those wanting to travel Australia in style, the fresh interior on the MY24 Manta Ray will impress. Head to your nearest dealer now to check out the latest MY24 Road Owl and Manta Ray in person. For more information: newagecaravans.com.au.…

SEND PICS TO WIN “Sadly, this most beautiful camp is currently closed for six months by Mt Isa Council.” “Camped up at Hughenden Show, Qld, with our Crusader van watching fireworks and listening to country music.” “We appear to be by ourselves, but it was quite busy … free camp sort of donation sort of thing. Great magazine by the way.” mark the spot’ sign in their Billabong and Toyota Prado rig. This month's winner is Helayne Smith who sent us this pic taken in Coober Pedy, SA. “We were very excited to arrive in Coober Pedy. This is our first outback trip in our Essential Cruiser. We have loved our time here. It is a unique part of our country.”…

DISTRICT OF CLEVE, SA SPONSORED FEATURE Located a 1.5-hour drive south of the vibrant regional city of Whyalla, the Eyre Peninsula is a must visit for anyone travelling through South Australia. And one of the best ways to truly appreciate it is by exploring the many scenic walks and hikes that wind through each of the region's varied landscapes. There are plenty of caravan friendly accommodation options to be found throughout Eastern Eyre, ensuring you can set up camp and enjoy a holiday of outdoor experiences. So, get your walking shoes ready, hitch up the van and prepare to embark on a trailblazing adventure through the captivating wonders of Eastern Eyre Peninsula. ARNO BAY: COASTAL CHARMS Where to stay Arno Bay is a tiny coastal town nestled on the serene Spencer…

DESIGN RV CRX V8 REVIEW There's a trendy caravan layout around these days, known by me as FBRB. That is a Front Bed, Rear Bathroom with the kitchen and dinette in between. There are variations, of course, mainly in van length but also which sides the kitchen and dinette are on and where the habitation door is located – mid door or rear door. I understand the popularity, but it makes writing about the van challenging to come up with something different when considering various manufacturers. Consequently, I get very interested when a van like Design RV's CRX V8 appears on my radar. Sydney RV's Norman Roe was kind enough to point me in the right direction in his sales yard and not long after, the van was hitched up…

Figuring out how to traverse the harsh Aussie outback is one of the key concerns of any caravanner. But what if there was a range of accessories available that made the whole process easier? That's where ARK Corporation comes in – an Aussie company with the aim of making towing safer, easier and a more enjoyable experience. There is enough stress planning the getaway and there is always a lot to pack especially if holidaying with the kids. ARK Corporation wants to ensure all tourers in Australia make it to their destination and back again, and with that in mind, it's created its XO Series range of gear. Founded in 1978 by Ark Richard Arakelian, a fitter and turner by trade, ARK Corporation came about because Arakelian saw a gap…

TOUCH DOG 4WD SUSPENSION FEATURE After 38 years of producing 4WD suspension systems, the Tough Dog recently worked with Signature Camper Trailers to develop a specific suspension system for Signature's Hybrid Camper range. Let's see how the partnership developed and the difference a specific suspension setup makes to how a trailer handles under tow. First up, we spoke with Simon Vella who is the Product Development Director at 4Way Suspension, the company behind Tough Dog. Giving some background to the process, Simon commented, “We were able to draw upon 38 years of experience in the 4WD sector, both locally and overseas, to produce a specific suspension setup for Signature Campers’ Hybrid van. It definitely was not a case of pulling a 4WD shock from the shelf and bolting it on.…

MOBILE PHONES The mobile phone has entered our lives and is irreplaceable as a communications tool, as long as you're in an area that has mobile reception. Looking at the coverage provided by Australia's two main carriers, Telstra and Optus, the coastal fringe has mobile coverage. As the population diminishes, so does your mobile coverage. Once you get into rural, regional or remote areas, your mobile phone becomes less and less reliable as a communications tool. We have found that Telstra has a wider network than Optus, covering more than 1 million square kilometres than its next nearest competitor. Mobile coverage in regional areas is by no means blanket coverage. Be aware that your travels will be interspersed with large areas of no mobile coverage. A handy hint is when…

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS REGULARS NSW/ACT Nimbin Roots Festival 14-15 October 2023 Head to Nimbin this October for this two-day music festival. The Nimbin Roots Festival first began in 2016 and has gained a reputation for being a ‘little’ festival with high-quality original music. Tickets are available online: nimbinrootsfestival.com. There is camping available at the nearby Nimbin Showgrounds ($15 per night, pay at the gate when you arrive). Canberra Caravan Camping Lifestyle Expo 20-22 October 2023 Canberra's Exhibition Park will be transformed into a three-day showcase of RVs, outdoor gear and holiday destinations, so now is the time to gear up for your next holiday. Register for email updates here: caravanexpo.com. Thunderbolts Festival 2023 28 October 2023 Held in Uralla, the 24th annual community event, Thunderbolts Festival, is one for the…

DIY FRIDGE SHADE TECHNICAL If you are operating a three-way fridge at high ambient temperature, creating shade for the fridge vents will help the fridge to run cooler. To understand this better we'll share a very simplified explanation of how a three-way fridge works. Three-way fridges, also known as absorption fridges, are amazing devices. They make stuff cold by utilising heat! The fridge cooling system contains a fluid made up of water and various chemicals known as refrigerant. The refrigerant circulates inside a closed loop of pipes and is repeatedly cycled between being converted from liquids to gases. A boiler is used to separate the chemicals dissolved in the water. The name three-way comes from the fact that three power sources can be used to heat the boiler – gas,…

Australia is a land made for adventures, and having the right gear with you when you head off on your next camping trip can make all the difference. CGear is proudly an Australian-owned company, and designs camping gear specifically to withstand Australian conditions – with a particular focus on allowing you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors without sand, dirt and dust creeping their way into your outdoor living areas. MULTIMAT Enjoy a clean and comfortable outdoor living area with the CGear Multimat. As the company's bestselling product, the Multimat's magic is that it uses CGear's patented double-layer material technology that allows sand and dirt to travel through the mat but not back up, which is perfect for any campsite, whether you're heading into the outback or onto the beach. Available…

REDARC has launched its new RS3 inverter range and Alpha150 150Ah lithium battery. Available in both 12V and 24V across 1200W, 2000W and 3000W capacities, the durable new RS3 inverters deliver a range of new features tailored for both installers and end users. Fitted with built-in Automatic Transfer Switching (ATS) as standard, this game-changing functionality ensures a seamless, reliable transition between battery and mains power. Thanks to their improved surge capacity (200 per cent higher and for twice as long than comparable inverters), smaller inverters can power more demanding appliances. This means that by downsizing their inverter, users can save valuable space and reduce weight. Additionally, the RS3 Inverters operate up to 75 per cent quieter than comparable models, ensuring they won't disrupt the tranquillity of the best camping spot…