Table of contents for Issue 647 in Caravan World

There's a lot to unpack in our first of two Caravan of the Year (COTY) issues. First up, congratulations to the overall, best innovation and best family van winner, Wonderland RV, with its XTR 2211 offroader. Wonderland is a regular at our events, and this year, it arrived with two vans that stood out in quality and innovation and the XTR 2211 took out the major prize. Yes, it's a significant outlay for a caravan priced at nearly a quarter of a million dollars, and you might think it should have won being the most expensive van in the event this year. But it's more complicated, and the four judges had much to consider other than price. Actually, being costly can work against a van in the judging process, but…

Caravanners and outdoor adventurers can explore Australia easier than ever in the new MY24 Nissan Patrol models with a worldfirst inbuilt Hema Maps GPS navigation experience powered by HemaX Digital (HXD). Nissan Australia is a tried-and-true Australian 4WD manufacturer and its Patrol range is one of the top choices for caravanners and four-wheel drive enthusiasts. And users will be excited to see that the new MY24 Nissan Patrol range includes the first-ever appearance of a Hema Maps navigation app built into the dash: the HXD-N. This product was built by Hema Maps, HemaX Digital (HXD) and Australian automotive supplier, Directed Technologies, and has been a highly anticipated development for Hema Maps and its customers. When asked about this exciting development, Hema Maps Chief Explorer Rob Boegheim said, “When we explored…

SEND PICS TO WIN “You feel just how magnificent this country is when free camping on the edge of these mighty cliffs. Our caravan is a 2012 21ft Billabong Suntrekker, towing with a LandCruiser 79 Series dual-cab.” “The photo shows my wife Cathy having a cuppa and chat to magpie just outside Cowra, NSW, on our way to West Wyalong.” “The photo is of our 3500 RAM and 229 Rough Rider Vacationer caravan.” “This one is called ‘The Water Diviner’ and was painted by talented Sydney street artist, Fintan Magee.” WIN! This month's winner will receive a Purple Line Saracen Ultra Hitch Lock valued at $189. Saracen Ultra is a highly visible, compact, high-security lock which works both hitched and unhitched to keep would-be caravan thieves at bay. It fits…

TIM VAN DUYL CARAVAN WORLD CREATIVE DIRECTOR VALUE FOR MONEY It's scary to some, but there are not many triple bunk offroad vans under $150,000 anymore. Times have changed and prices have gone up sharply in the past few years, so to hear the Storm was a gourmet pie at $128,990 stood out to me. You could get a cheaper, less well-spec'd road van for less, but I'd suggest you'll struggle to find a locally made product that can take you almost anywhere much cheaper, if at all. TOWABILITY With a 3500kg ATM, you are going to need a modern 4×4 ute, or big SUV, or do what we did and tow with a Silverado 1500 LTZ. The 1500 made light work of the Storm 21, as it should with its…

COTY REVIEW PRIME EDGE ODYSSEY MALCOLM STREET CARAVAN WORLD FIELD EDITOR SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING Prime Edge Caravans’ Odyssey is a van with much to offer. Its external body length of 6.3m (20ft 8in) is well suited to the front bedroom and rear bathroom layout. As a couples van, there's plenty of room to move around inside. The kitchen bench is well-sized, with a Thetford four-burner cooktop/grill/oven, a large square sink, and a microwave oven in the usual overhead locker location. That other kitchen essential, a Dometic 224L compressor fridge, sits between the dinette and the bathroom. Undoubtedly, the van's feature item is the cafe dinette. Complete with wall cushions and hinged footrests, it oozes comfort for the weary traveller. This is relevant because Prime Edge advertises the Odyssey as a…

WALHALLA, VIC TRAVEL “Its Scandinavian-born manager, Henry Rosales, is believed to have taken inspiration from ‘Valhalla’ in Norse mythology” ‘Q uaint’ doesn't really do Walhalla justice. The tiny town appears frozen in the late 1800s, its one main road lined with old weatherboard and brick buildings - a corner store, pub, fire station, post office and cutesy cottages among them. Forested valley walls peppered with lush tree ferns rise steeply on either side, and though the town is not technically located at a dead end, the road beyond is unsealed and far less-used. Its story began in 1863 when Edward Stringer discovered gold in what is now Stringers Creek, running alongside Main Road. Within a few months a tent city sprang up for the tsunami of prospectors who came to…

OFF-GRID POWER: ECO POWER WORLD SPONSORED FEATURE The world of recreational vehicles (RVs) — and the necessary energy required to power them — has come a long way and continues to become increasingly sophisticated with each passing year. Eco Power World has been at the forefront of these advances, especially when it comes to your power management systems. In July 2023, Eco Power World became the proud sole distributor of the innovative EcoFlow Power Kits in Australia and New Zealand. Established in 2017, EcoFlow produces power solution for off-grid living and experiences, including caravans, motorhomes, tiny home and pod-type living. “Eco Power World offers several different power management systems. Among those is the diverse, modular system which is perfect for extended off-grid travel” The power solutions offered by Eco Power…

NSW Henry Lawson Festival 6–10 June 2024 Celebrating one of Australia's most famous bush poets, this festival in Grenfell features a vibrant street party, market stalls, live music and performers and much more. Don't miss the Friday Night Henry Lawson Dinner and Show, Poetry Breakfast, Caragabal Camp Oven Cook-Off and Iandra Castle Open Day. Explore the beautiful town where Henry Lawson was born and immerse yourself in the heritage and culture. Find out more online: henrylawsonfestival.com.au Newbridge Winter Solstice Festival 22 June 2024 The Winter Solstice Festival in Newbridge is back! Enjoy the wickerman bonfire, markets, Viking battles, live music, dance performances, hearty winter food and much more. Best yet — entry is free. More information can be found online: facebook.com/people/Newbridge-Winter-Solstice/100063463000099 New England Outdoor Adventure Show 29–30 June 2024 Head…

REGULARS NEWS The new MY24 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 Heavy Duty has arrived in Australia and is more powerful than ever, featuring a swathe of enhancements with a focus on towing, technology and comfort. With uncompromising towing capability, the 2500 HD is renowned as the strongest and most capable Silverado available in Australia and New Zealand. “Now, with several updates to the new MY24, the Silverado HD comes with exciting developments that build upon its established heavy-duty truck versatility,” said Shawn Norwood, Lead Development Engineer for the Silverado Heavy Duty. “These include powertrain upgrades, a commanding new physical presence paired with an overhauled interior, enhancements to its revolutionary trailering technology and infotainment system, plus active safety technology upgrades.” The new MY24 HD joins other Chevrolet Silverado models available at GMSV Dealers,…

1 Know your capability Before hitting the road, make sure you are ready for the challenge. Towing a caravan poses unique challenges and requires different skills than driving a standalone vehicle. Caravans have a considerable impact on the handling and braking capabilities of the towing vehicle. If you have yet to tow, it's wise to seek training or advice from an experienced driver. Practice on a safe backroad to feel how the van and vehicle combination move when cornering and braking. Confidence comes with practice and makes better, safer towing. 2 Don't rush Don't be cajoled into doing something you aren't confident in doing. Sure, it's best to go with the traffic flow out on the highway, but only if you feel safe. Stay in your lane, keep speed constant…

COTY 2024 BEHIND THE SCENES FEATURE Not so long ago, in the beautiful late summer days of February, we headed to Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula to kickstart Caravan of the Year 2024 presented by MSA 4x4 Accessories. With 12 great vans from 11 of Australia's most innovative manufacturers each vying for the ultimate title of Caravan of the Year, you can be sure it was an action-packed event. As you'll see throughout the 12 reviews, every van was thoroughly put to the test in and around Indented Heads, Portarlington and the start of the Great Ocean Road. And with sunny days, beautiful ocean vistas and afternoons that gave way to soft golden sunsets, the Bellarine Peninsula was a picture-perfect setting for COTY 2024. Our home base for the six-day event was…

MALCOLM STREET CARAVAN WORLD FIELD EDITOR SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING The Mobi Nomad Continental was one of the most unique vans at the 2024 Caravan of the Year event. However, that doesn't mean it didn't have much to offer, because it did. Designed for a couple who don't want a particularly large offroad van, it was also very tow vehicle friendly with a tare mass of just 1800kg. I reckon it's also designed for a couple who like the camper trailer lifestyle but don't like flapping canvas and desire a reasonably short set up time at the campsite. The offside slide-out is manually operated which minimises any electrical problems and everything, particularly the nearside kitchen, is relatively easy to set up for the evening meal. Of note in the kitchen was…

COTY REVIEW VANCRAFT CRAFTSMAN 216 JOHN FORD CARAVAN WORLD EDITOR VALUE FOR MONEY At some point during our event, I quizzed Vanguard's owner about the price of the Craftsman 216, and he told me it was $184,990 as presented. But then, in the next breath, he suggested that it really should be more, considering all that's in it. He's probably right. Approximately $8000 of that is the custom bike rack, but not the $27,000 KTM Enduro motorbike, of course. It's a dilemma then. The price is high, but the quality is there, and there's no arguing that the off-grid capability is up there with the best. The Craftsman 216 is an oversized couples van with exceptional amenities like an enclosed bedroom, practical central ensuite and that party-size club lounge. The cost…

FREMANTLE, WA TRAVEL “Fremantle embraces its past while welcoming expression and change” It's always fun to visit Fremantle/ Walyalup. Affectionately known as ‘Freo’ the eclectic port city, 22km south of Perth, has a vastly different feel than the CBD. First, its heritage is on show, with the town populated with beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings. Street art murals, quirky venues, and hole-in-the-wall spaces add to the city's colourful tapestry. Its atmosphere just exudes hip and carefree. Fremantle embraces its past while welcoming expression and change. Old sheds have been reimagined as mega-brewhouses, and character homes are now spaces to socialise. Its two jails are eerie places to roam — or enjoy concerts. There's a lot to see in this vibrant city, and even as someone who grew up close by, I…

GYMPIE MUSIC MUSTER SPONSORED URE Just an hour north of Noosa and the attractions of Queensland's Sunshine Coast, the Gympie Music Muster has been an institution among the state's festivals and events since its inception in 1982. Its community focus makes it unique. It is a not-for-profit festival proudly owned and run by the Apex Club of Gympie with a fundamental purpose which has never changed — to raise funds for those in need in local communities. This community-based non-for-profit event is supported by many schools, charities, sporting and service clubs who each year work at the festival as a key part of their annual fundraising activities. It is estimated that the Gympie Music Muster has contributed more than $20.8 million to the community over the past 41 years. So…

MATARANKA, NT TRAVEL The township of Mataranka sits on the Stuart Highway, 105km southeast of Katherine, revelling in its role as the self-styled ‘Capital of the Never Never'. These are the traditional lands of the Mangarayi and Yangman Aboriginal people, in whose language Mataranka means ‘home of the snake’. Their Dreamtime lore relates that a wild wind swept across the country, creating Mataranka (Birinjin), Bitter Springs (Korran), Rainbow Springs and Mataranka Thermal Pool (Najig), among many other places that are now popular tourist attractions around the town. Some of their contemporary artwork can be seen in the Stockyard Gallery on the main street. The town is spread along the Stuart Highway, making it an easy place for travellers to stop, refuel and resupply. It's well-equipped for that purpose with a…

RECIPES ON THE ROAD COOKING BREAKFAST SHAKSHUKA TOTAL TIME: 30 minutes SERVES: 2 INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp olive oil • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 red onion, chopped fine • 1 green capsicum, diced • 1 tin tomatoes, crushed • 1 tsp cumin powder • 1 tsp chilli powder • 1 tsp salt • 3 eggs • Handful torn basil leaves • Crusty bread to serve METHOD Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the garlic for 30 seconds. Add the onion and capsicum; cook until soft. Add in the tinned tomatoes, cumin, chilli powder and salt. Let simmer for five minutes, stirring occasionally. Make a small dent in the sauce and crack the eggs into each dent. Cover and simmer for approximately 10–12 minutes…

COTY REVIEW WONDERLAND XTR 2211 SCAN TO PLAY VIDEO VALUE FOR MONEY “As the owners say, they put the best in and the best costs money” CATHERINE BEST AUTHOR OF ‘ULTIMATE CARAVAN TRIPS AUSTRALIA’ VALUE FOR MONEY The Wonderland RV XTR 2211 is a premium build and comes with a premium price tag. It will set you back almost a quarter of a million dollars, but, as the owners say, they put the best in and the best costs money. It's also the largest van in this year's competition, at a touch under 23ft. So, what do you get for your money? A heavy-duty, Australian-built CRZR chassis, a cleverly installed behind-fridge Arizon Victron power system and impeccable finishes — right down to the custom linen, included in the price tag. For…

COTY REVIEW ON THE MOVE ADVENTURE 6.3 BLACK EDITION JOHN FORD CARAVAN WORLD EDITOR SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING Aptly from On The Move's Adventure range, this offroader is designed as a couple's tourer to get you into out-of-the-way campsites. At 6.3m or 20ft 6in, it's longer than average, so couples will enjoy a roomy interior that makes the most of the available space. I like the layout, where the extra length has been sensibly used for added legroom at the dinette, usable bench space and in the ensuite. There are also ample storage opportunities with a full-height pantry and, unusually, drawers under the bed and low in the side wardrobes. The north-south walkaround bed has easy access, and the entry door down the back offers privacy that many buyers will appreciate.…

With more than 40 years under its belt, REDARC has become a household name for adventurers throughout Australia, New Zealand and worldwide, producing award-winning advanced vehicular power solutions — many of which you will have seen highlighted in Caravan World reviews. We were lucky enough to have REDARC as a sponsor of Caravan of the Year (COTY) 2024, and the team put on a great display of their latest and greatest products at the public Showcase. Some of the latest products we got to check out were the new Manager Alpha100 charger, and the new Smart Battery Monitor, which comes standard with the Manager Alpha. These newly released products were designed to make the outdoor adventuring lifestyle easier than ever, particularly for those who enjoy spending time off-grid. So, let's…

OFF -GRID POWER: TECHWORLD SPONSORED FEATURE Increasingly, Aussies are preferring to camp off-grid, away from the crowds, to enjoy the solitude and remoteness of the many great open spaces. And while we love to ‘go bush’, we like to do so with many of the creature comforts that we enjoy at home — heating, air conditioning, cooking, entertainment appliances and of course, a coffee machine. A good, reliable power system is essential if your off-grid caravanning adventures are going to be comfortable, enjoyable and hassle-free. iTechworld is a West Australian family owned and operated company which has been applying good old-fashioned Aussie innovation to the power storage market since 2006. All product development is done in house, with customer service being the team's number one priority. iTechworld designs and supplies…

CANIA GORGE NATIONAL PARK, OLD TRAVEL “The watercourse gradually eroded the sandstone plate down to its granite bed and carved the wide gorge bounded by 70m cliffs we see today” Tucked away in a secluded corner of the North Burnett region, about 500km northwest of Brisbane, Cania Gorge embraces two principal features of outstanding beauty and interest — a 3000ha national park, noted for its towering sandstone cliffs and abundant wildlife, and the reservoir behind Cania Dam that is arguably one of the state's best freshwater fishing hot spots. ANCIENT ORIGINS About 200 million years ago this part of Central Queensland was covered by a shallow lake lying over granite bedrock that formed deep beneath the surface of the Earth. Into the lake streams and rivers deposited sand eroded from…

Food is always more fun when you are caravanning. Time slows down and meal preparation can be more of a focal point of the day rather than a chore to fit into a busy schedule. Similarly, the luxury of more time provides the opportunity to savour the meal itself, particularly when we can share it with other caravanners. Appliances can be broadly divided into gas-powered and electrically powered and some that are a combination of both. Gas has been the mainstay of camp cooking for decades as it provides a cost-effective way to bottle (literally) a large quantity of energy and bring it with you to use anywhere. Electrical power has historically been great when you are plugged in at a caravan park but very limiting off-grid. Advances in lithium…

ALL ELECTRIC BIG LAP COLUMNS With the final packing box taped up, the last work email sent and out-ofoffice activated we were finally ready to roll and embark on our all electric adventure. The nine months ahead is dedicated to exploring this great southern land in our EV and solar camper trailer on the iconic Big Lap. As we hit the road, we are conscious of the need to be prepared for the unexpected. Our travel schedule is intentionally fluid, allowing us the freedom to embrace the challenges that will come our way in a country that's only just opening up to electric travel beyond the limits of the cities. CHARGED UP FOR ADVENTURE Between Perth and Exmouth, a myriad of destinations beckoned. From sandboarding escapades in Lancelin, to nights…

GETAWAY GEAR REGULARS From the school of building a better mousetrap comes this innovative SureCan jerry can that we tried recently. The original plastic-lined steel jerry can was developed for the German army in World War II and eventually copied by the British, who bestowed the name. By the end of the war, 21 million of the Allied forces’ fuel cans were scattered across Europe. The design of metal cans has mostly stayed the same, and jerry cans are essential equipment (although mostly plastic these days) for travellers heading bush. But anyone who has used them extensively will know they can be messy and sometimes hard to keep upright due to their narrow design. This self-ventilating SureCan is a new take on fuel storage and transport, and it has been…