Tabla de contenidos para Issue 649 en Caravan World

In this issue, we delve into the current selection of twin-cab utes for towing and introduce Miriam and Chris from Aussie Destinations Unknown for a different perspective on the optimum travelling combination. We also report on the tow rig choices the entrants at our recent Caravan of the Year event brought along, and we pick a winner. You might not agree with the outcome, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on the best towing vehicle choice. You will note that our rundown on twin cabs on page 56 suggests a van weight of 2800kg to meet limits on combined vehicle weights and the gross weight of the tow vehicle. Buyers tend to forget that once they add accessories like a bullbar, roof rack, second spare and a set of…

SEND PICS TO WIN “Here we are camping at the beautiful Lucky Bay Shacks beach camp at Yallabatharra, in front of the beautiful ocean lagoon. Another beautiful WA sunset!” “The simple but beautiful scene of sunset on the Menindee Lakes near Broken Hill in NSW was mesmerising. We sat and watched until the last rays were gone.” “It felt like a caravan show as four Jayco caravans (including us) were parked side by side. My brother and sister-in-law were parked opposite, making it five Jayco vans.” “We're on a build-up trip to our retirement, which is nearly here. We ventured from home in Maryborough out west to Winton, Qld. My gosh! What a magnificent outback town and people.” “Our van is a 2017 Option RV Tribute towed by a 2020…

TOW TEST: MY24 CHEVROLET SILVERADO LTZ 2500HD REVIEWS “You need to use one of the best features of the 2500HD: the ability to program trailer weight and dimensions into the system” SCAN FOR THE SILVERADO LTZ 2500HD PREMIUM REVIEW Towing using cruise control is a contentious topic. I do it, but I have also had a few ‘Oh @##$%’ moments when the tow vehicle roared over a crest or carried a bit too much momentum for my liking, so I will not put a hand up to say it's the way to tow everywhere, always. So why promote it in the MY24 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ 2500HD? It comes down to the integration of what was already a fantastic bit of tech, the ability to load dimensions and weights of trailers…

“I see the Basestation as almost the utopia of utilitarian vans” I am an old dirt bike rider from way back, so when I got the chance to spend a few days having a good look at the Jayco Basestation Toy Hauler I jumped at it. We have some cool photos showing it in ‘dirt bike mode’ but I should stress the van's applications are far broader. I see the Basestation as almost the utopia of utilitarian vans, featuring a mobile garage which is great for storing and transporting just about anything you can imagine. “The Basestation comes standard with two hinged beds that fold up or down very easily” LIVEABILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY Let's jump straight into liveability and functionality because that's what's so appealing about this van. The rear…

COTY 2024 TOW VEHICLES FEATURE SNOWY RIVER SRT-19 AND FORD RANGER XLT PX MKII (TICKFORD) Thanks to a raised chassis and independent trailing arm suspension, the latest Snowy sits higher off the road than its more blacktop focussed counterparts, but that's not to say it towed badly at all. All four of us judges found it nearly faultless. But what about the Ranger up front? We towed with a Ford Ranger XLT PX MkII fettled by Tickford Engineering. The MkII was built between 2015 and 2018 and in the XLT trim came only with the 3.2L inline fivecylinder turbo diesel engine with the choice of either a manual or six-speed automatic gearbox. The PX MkII is a handsome ride and with a set of Clearview mirrors, a small lift in…

“A good rule of thumb is that your vehicle should be heavier than your caravan” An important thing to remember is that safe towing practices start before you get behind the wheel. So, let's dive into some key areas to focus on to make sure your next trip is as safe as possible. VEHICLE CAPABILITY AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION Understanding your towing setup weights is essential for safe towing. First of all, make sure that your vehicle's legal tow limit is suitable for your fully loaded van (the aggregate trailer mass, ATM). A good rule of thumb is that your vehicle should be heavier than your caravan. It is up to the driver to ensure that caravan weight is within the limits. Overweight vans are not only more susceptible to accidents…

EDEN WILDTRAX 19FT 6 REVIEWS Eden Caravans is a family-owned manufacturer based in Campbellfield, Victoria, the caravan capital of Australia. All the boutique company's vans are built for use anywhere in Australia, which is one reason why Andrew Altschwager, dealer principal at Caravans Coffs Coast, has Eden's caravans in his range. A very typical example is the Wildtrax 19ft 6, an offroad caravan built to very exacting standards. The Wildtrax van is an impressive looker. Apart from anything else, the metallic grey colour stands out in the crowd, but the van also has a very purposeful air. STRUCTURE The body is formed by a 25mm C-section aluminium frame that is Henrob rivetted and includes metal gussets for extra strength. There's no timber in the frame. All the cavities are filled…

ALL ELECTRIC BIG LAP COLUMNS The rugged Kimberley region in northern Western Australia with its isolation, stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage is likely to be a highlight of any Big Lap trip. Broome provided the springboard for our own Kimberly adventure, searching for dinosaur footprints in the sandstone, riding camels along the beach, learning about the town's fascinating history, witnessing the impressive tides and getting up close with the terrifying saltwater crocs. From Broome we headed to Derby, the gateway to the legendary Gibb River Road. The Gibb is a true wilderness adventure and one that we wanted to try and tackle if possible. By now we were confident we knew the extent of the Kia EV9's offroad capabilities. In our planning we had also received positive responses…

Jayco Journey, Jayco Silverline and Jayco All Terrain owners from all over the country came together between 9–13 May at Norah Head Holiday Park on the NSW north coast for the biennial National Getaway 2024. Owners from all states and the ACT made an appearance, with only the NT missing a representative. This was the third National Getaway to be held by these three Facebook groups – the Jayco Journey Owners Australia, the Jayco Silverline Owners Australia and the Jayco All Terrain Owners Australia – and the event attracted 123 caravans with 248 adults and children attending. As each caravan arrived, they were provided with a welcome bag supplied by Jayco Corporation which contained such items as stubby holders, mugs, sunglasses, a personal fan and various Jayco brochures. Another bag…

We would love to hear from you. There's a great prize every month for the best letter so get typing and tell us what you think, where you've been, or ask any questions you have about the caravanning lifestyle. Email us at submissions@emprisegroup.com.au for the chance to win. LETTER OF THE MONTH Hi John, During a recent camping trip, I noticed a few people were using chain hooks rather than D-shackles when connecting their safety chains to the tow bar. We've got D-shackles, as recommended during a towing course we took when we got our first van, but given how much quicker (or at least less fiddly) the hooks are and how many we see on the road, do you have a stance on how good or safe they are…

YORK, WA TRAVEL “Mount Brown Lookout offers sweeping views over the York township and surrounds” Best known for its pristine, squeaky white beaches, fishing and water sports, WA isn't exactly renowned for its history and old-world architecture. However, just a 97km trip east of Perth is York, the oldest inland town in WA which features perfectly preserved Victorian and Federation architecture and a surprise at every turn. With quirky shopfronts, arched doorframes, elegant facades, ornate mouldings and grand hotels of a bygone era, a visit to York is a leave pass far from the urban madding crowd and a refreshing step back in time. Soak up yesteryear at any of the town's attractions, enjoy a beer or three in any (or all) of York's fabulous hotels – The Castle Hotel,…

ROMA, QLD TRAVEL “Thomas Mitchell described the countryside around Roma as ‘the finest country I have ever seen…’” When Thomas Mitchell explored the area in May 1846, he described the countryside around Roma as “the finest country I have ever seen – a champaign (sic) region of open country … an abundance of good pasturage, stretching as far as human vision or even the telescope could reach.” Twenty years later, when it was little more than a settlement with three pubs, the town was named Roma after Lady Diamantina Bowen (nee di Roma), the wife of Sir George Bowen, the Governor of Queensland at the time. Roma is the administrative centre and service hub of the Maranoa Region which spans more than 58,000sq km. Agricultural production is worth approximately $620…

EAST COAST, QLd–NSW TRAVEL Spectacular scenery, relaxed stays, the promise of plenty to do or the chance to do nothing at all. Long stretches of soft, white sand, the perfect wave or whale watching from cliff-tops … beach bliss is different for everyone. And that's a good thing given what's on offer along our east coast. It would take way too many pages to cover the hundreds of beaches from Cooktown in Queensland to Eden in NSW, but here's a snapshot of where you can squelch in the sand and dive into the deep blue along the way. QUEENSLAND: COOKTOWN TO COOLANGATTA (2100KM) Tropical North Queensland Renowned for pristine wilderness and the wonders that lay offshore, the beaches here are also famous for two other things – crocodiles and stingers…

TOW MIRRORS Towing mirrors come in all shapes and sizes, but all serve the same purpose: to extend your side mirror visibility so you can see your entire van. One of the common misunderstandings about towing mirrors is whether or not they are a legal requirement. The answer is technically no, but it is a legal requirement that drivers have a clear line of visibility down the side of their tow vehicle and van or trailer, as demonstrated in the diagram. If you've got a compact or narrow van, then your vehicle's side mirrors might be acceptable, but in many cases towing mirrors are required. We've showcased the MSA 4x4 Tow Mirrors a number of times in Caravan World (check out John Ford's review in issue 636). These tow mirrors…

Thousands of music lovers, families and ute fanatics will descend on Deniliquin, NSW, for one of Australia's most popular bucket list events – the Deni Ute Muster – to be held across two days on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 October. With 26 years under its belt (or tyres, if you will), the Deni Ute Muster has become a must-see event for locals and travellers from all around Australia, promising an actionpacked schedule filled with music, activities for all ages, camping, and – of course – sensational ute competitions. Front and centre at the Muster is, of course, the music. After an all-Australian line-up in 2023, this year's music program will be headlined by global US sensations Tyler Hubbard and Kip Moore. Rounding out the main stage roster, musterers can…

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS REGULARS NSW Mid North Coast Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show 2–4 August 2024 The Mid North Coast Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show is taking place at Wauchope Showground this August. There'll be more than 165 exhibitors, family-friendly entertainment, demonstrations and more. Find out more online: ruralscene.com.au/mid-north-coast-show Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash 15–17 August 2024 If you enjoy camping, Aussie music, remote destinations and festival fun, then the Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash is for you. There'll be a star-studded lineup of musicians, multiple world record attempts and much more. Head online to find out more about the actionpacked schedule: mundimundibash.com.au VIC Winterfest Mirboo North 3–4 August 2024 Held in Mirboo North in South Gippsland, this two-day free festival is a wintery celebration of…

The protector shade that covers the front window on a van has two common component failures. First, is the pair of little stays that hold the protector shade up in the open position. The stays can corrode over time making the locking knob difficult to turn. The solution is to replace the stays as a pair as they are relatively inexpensive parts. If you can use a screwdriver, a drill and a pop rivet gun this job will be in your skillset. The second common component failure is the little plastic latches that keep the shade in the closed position are prone to breaking. This is another inexpensive parts replacement exercise using the same tools above. The last job on our list is to replace the cover on a roof…

Visibility on the road is essential, and to help ensure you're safe as well as stylish, Big Red Gear has launched a new range of LED driving lights: the Covert LED Driving Light range. Great light output is what you'd expect from a LED driving light, but something special Big Red Gear has incorporated into the design is a contemporary ‘blacked out’ look for when the lights are not in use, creating a sleek and eyecatching exterior. The range is available in 7in or 9in diameter model options, each one showcasing the new dark chrome appearance that also enhances light clarity, meaning you'll be able to see further down the road when driving. The lights are powered by OSRAM LEDs, emitting a natural white light at 5700K. The 9in model…

NEWS REGULARS Coromol has released the first set of caravan models to be manufactured by its new partner, respected industry leader Walkinshaw Group. The 2024 Sunseeker Caravan range features 12 distinct models across three series: Soul Seeker Series for solo travellers and couples, Adventure Series for families and Thrill Seeker Series for semi-offroad travel. This new lineup promises to deliver excellent comfort, style and functionality, ensuring that every journey, no matter where you go, is a memorable one. Every caravan in the range is Australian designed and Australian made, reflecting Coromol's continued commitment to supporting local craftmanship and engineering. The new 2024 Sunseeker Caravan range is now available for viewing and purchase at authorised Coromal dealerships around Australia. The new range is now available for viewing and purchase at authorised…

Elegant décor including modern floor and wall tiles, floating vanities, large showers and gorgeous black and gold tapware and accessories. You'd think we're talking about a bathroom from a five-star luxury hotel, but it's the new ensuite caravan sites at Park Lake Holiday Parks. Park Lane has glammed up the camping and caravanning experience at its BIG4 Yarra Valley, BIG4 Bendigo and Phillip Island Park Lane Holiday Parks with the introduction of luxurious ensuite sites. As well as modern amenities the ensuite bathrooms are spacious with plenty of room families to get the kids washing and dressed without falling all over each other. In addition to the new ensuite sites, Park Lane Holiday Parks offers a range of fantastic amenities across all its locations including fully equipped camp kitchens and…

Every four-wheel driver and caravanner knows that when you're out in the bush tackling the harshest of Aussie conditions, you want confidence in the best gear and accessories that money can buy. Queensland-based MSA 4x4 Accessories has established a solid reputation in the sector for designing and manufacturing products to withstand Aussie conditions. They test and test again to ensure each product meets their stringent quality standards before it goes to market. “We have a very large fear of failure in mind,” said MSA founder Shane Miles. “We engineer our products to withstand what we believe will be the harshest they will encounter, and then add some. We don't rush to market, we get out and test and use our products ourselves, and if any component ever gives doubt, we…

CHOOSING A DUAL CAB UTE FEATURE SCAN TO SEE GUIDE Dual cab utes have become the most popular type of vehicle on Australian roads. They are used for running the kids around, tradie workhorses and, of course, for hauling caravans. The popularity of the category has driven many manufacturers to throw resources into developing some very desirable products and we are spoilt for choice with multiple brands and variants. If you are in the market for a dual cab ute, you have come to the right place. We have pulled together a handy reference article summarising important specs to give you a head start on your research process. Referring to the comparison table (page 60–61) while reading the commentary will help you get the most out of the article. (There's…

2024 QLD SUPER SHOW RECAP FEATURE “Several local manufacturers are based in southwest Queensland, which is why the Let's Go Queensland Supershow is always a fan favourite” Of all the capital city caravan and camping shows, the Let's Go Queensland Supershow differs slightly from the others. Apart from the famous Queensland warm weather in mid-winter, another prime reason is that there are several local manufacturers based in the southwest Queensland area in attendance, along with some well-known local characters. I won't mention any names here except perhaps one. Not long after I walked through the show gates, I ran into the former CEO of Caravanning Queensland, Ron Chapman. Ron retired from the CEO role in 2019 but still takes an active interest in the industry and has always been a…

GIBB RIVER GR23C REVIEWS “With an external length of 23ft 4in (7.11m), a van isn't going to be lightweight” Gibb River Caravans, introduced earlier this year at the NSW Caravan Camping Holiday Supershow, is a new name in the Australian caravan market. The Gibb River (the road) isn't – being well known among offroad travellers, but the parallels are apparent. And while primarily built overseas, Gibb River vans are designed as Aussie offroad tourers. Imported composite caravans from China are rapidly becoming part of the Australian caravan scene and the Gibb River range built by Skyline is designed to take a slice of that. The Gibb River vans body, chassis and box are Australian designed and built overseas, while the suspension is Australian-built and fitted in the brand's factory in…

BULLARA STATION, WA TRAVEL The Exmouth Gulf is a happening place. The coastal town of Exmouth, 1250km north of Perth, is a springboard for bucket-list experiences: swimming with the ocean's ‘big three’ – whale sharks, humpback whales and manta rays – and discovering the flourishing World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef flipper strides from shore. But instead of driving straight to Exmouth, consider exploring dry lands (just for a few days) by discovering what's on the doorstep of the Exmouth Gulf. The region's best-kept secret, Bullara Station, is 91km south of Exmouth and offers an outback experience like no other – cheeseburger pies included. Where beef meets boujee My partner and I pulled into Bullara Station, just off Minilya-Exmouth Road. It was a welcome change of scenery from our previous stop, frolicking…

TOWING WITH US TRUCKS FEATURE “Using our many years of offroad and caravanning experience, our life is now spent championing the booming touring and caravanning industry” ABOUT CHRIS AND MIRIAM We were part-time adventurers and travellers for many years and loved it so much that in 2020 we packed up the house, sold everything, and set off to explore Australia full-time in our first Chevy Silverado towing our first Titanium caravan. Today Aussie Destinations Unknown is our full-time job. We are in our third Titanium caravan, a 2023 model weighing in at just under 4500kg fully loaded, and driving our third Chevy Silverado, the MY24 2500 in the new slate grey colour for this model. Using our many years of offroad and caravanning experience, our life is now spent championing…

I'm not a huge fan of cooking inside caravans. Sure, I'll reluctantly boil a kettle or reheat some basics on a bad day, but I am loathe to fry anything or get a curry going. I just hate the smell and issues with condensation which is why any van I buy will always have an external kitchen. But what is the next best option? It should be the Genesis Basecamp System from JetBoil. It's not cheap, retailing around $650 and that will turn a few of you away – but read on. I have already taken this Genesis setup on three trips, one from the boot of the family car and twice with camper trailers and I'll bring it on my next big van trip because it's so compact, useable…