CARAVAN BUYERS TIPS:

If you're considering taking time to explore what Australia has to offer, then buying your own caravan is a great option. But when you look at the size and extent of the range, it’s easy to get a bit confused. But fear not! We talked to the experts and have put together a comprehensive list of questions and answers to help guide your decision making.

Question 1: What do you intend to do with it?

The purpose will determine your caravan’s size and configuration, its layout and the extent of its fittings. Don't just think about the first trip, plan forward a couple of years: will your caravan be mainly used for weekend escapes to a favourite getaway destination or are you going spend a lot of time on the road - and off the road - around Australia? The amount of travel will determine how important features such as independent rear suspension and off-road capability will be to your new van.

Question 2: How are you going to tow the caravan?

Unless you are in the enviable position of purchasing the caravan first and the vehicle to suit it, you need check the tow capacity of your current vehicle as this will set a ‘maximum’ weight for your dream van.

Question 3: Big or small? (Yes, size matters)

If you want complete independence and you’re comfortable towing a long wheel base caravan, then a large, luxury caravan with separate bedroom, shower and toilet are a delight. Alternatively, if you prefer the idea of travelling light, the convenience of towing a short wheel base caravan, a small caravan is a good, cheaper option. The trade off is simply the share of facilities at local caravan and holiday parks – don't forget that bumping into like minded travellers at the local holiday park can be a highlight of the trip!

Question 4: What about Pop-Tops and Camper Trailers?

The ‘pop-top’ caravan, with its fold-down roof section, is proving to be one of the most innovative ‘small to medium size caravan styles. Pop-ups are ideal if you want to store your caravan under a carport or in your garage when not in use – no need to construct special high roofline carports!
The low profile of the pop-top and camper trailer when closed also offers the advantage of less wind resistance and better fuel economy when towing. As you would expect, there is a trade-off: you have to go through the process of popping the roof up and down each time you stop on a touring holiday.

The alternative choice of a camper trailer, with a wind-up canvas upper section and extendable sleeping accommodation on each side, is a great one for families with children.

Question 5: Buy New or Used?

In simple terms, new caravans offer all the benefits, safety features and comforts of recent design advancements, including independent rear suspension, durable and lightweight construction material. Buying new also gives you the choice to ‘custom-build’ the layout of your caravan to your needs and desires!

If you choose to buy a used caravan always buy from a licenced dealer. This is the only way to guarantee clear title on the unit you are buying. Licenced dealers do many exhaustive checks to ensure that the units they are selling are in fact not stolen (and often re-identified) or encumbered (ie. they don't have any money owing on them).


YOU WISH & YOU NEED: PREPARING TO BUY THE RIGHT CARAVAN:

Before you set off to the showrooms take time to answer these questions and take them along to a dealer:

• List everything you want in the caravan then classify them into ‘You Wish’ & “Ýou Need’
• Where do you plan to go in your caravan in the next two years? (Calculate how many trips and total distance)?
• Where will you store the caravan (Calculate the maximum height restriction)
• What is the towing capacity of your vehicle? (Match the caravan to your car)
• How much space do you need inside?
• What is more important: the comforts of home or economy of light travel?
  

A comprehensive list of dealers/retailers within your State is available by clicking on the map of Australia on our website www.welovethiscountry.net.au

TALENT QUEST: be part of WE LOVE THIS COUNTRY National Promotions

SAFARI SEASON 2008!

Fancy exploring this beautiful country of ours by caravan, motor home or mobile camping vehicle, whilst enjoying the camaraderie of group travel with like-minded people?

If so, NRMA Motoring & Services and the Caravan, RV and Accommodation Industry of Australia have an exciting range of Caravan Safari trails just for you.

Suitable for both the novice and experienced traveller there is six safaris in 2007, each of two weeks duration. Each safari is totally organised for you – all you have to do is turn up and be ready for an action-packed adventure. Travel in your own (or hired) caravan, motor home or mobile camping vehicle and explore this beautiful country of ours. The safaris will be led by experienced tour operators, with both lead vehicles and ‘tail end charlie’ vehicles, who will offer guidance, ensure safety and organise the itinerary and logistics.

Details of the six Trails being held in 2008:

The Outback Discovery Trail (Dubbo, NSW to Longreach, QLD)

* Saturday 12 May – Saturday 26 May 2007
* Saturday 11 August – Saturday 25 August 2007
Highlights include: Old Dubbo Gaol theatrical night tour and dinner, Western Plains Zoo early morning walk and breakfast, Australian Cotton Centre guided tour, ‘Dig In’ dining experience under the stars in Lightning Ridge, Outback Opal Tour, Cosmos Centre Night Tour, Workers Heritage Centre, Qantas Founders Museum and 747 Tour, Stockmans Hall of Fame, Thomson Belle River Cruise and numerous group meals and camp-oven dinners.

The Wildflower and Goldfields Trail (Kalgoorlie, WA to Boyup Brook, WA)

* Saturday 6 October – Saturday 20 October 2007
Highlights include: Mining Hall of Fame Tour, Kalgoorlie Super Pit Tour, Langtrees Bordello Tour, Tour of Cape le Grand (Esperance), MacKenzies Island Wildlife Cruise, Wildflower Tour at Stirling Range Retreat, Albany Day Tour (including Whale World), Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk, Shearing shed lamb spit function, and a final night function at Harvey Dickson Country Music Centre.

The Murray and Wine Trail (Bright, VIC to Victor Harbor, SA)

* Saturday 2 June – Saturday 16 June 2007
* Saturday 15 September – Saturday 29 September 2007
Highlights include: Dinner cruise on the Murray River, Old Port of Echuca Tour, lunch at Banrock Station Winery, 4WD guided tour of the gorges around the Flinders Ranges and Wilpena Pound, coach tour to Adelaide, day trip to Kangaroo Island (including Seal Bay, The Eucalyptus Oil Distillery, Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch) and wine tasting at numerous wineries.

The Tassie Wilderness Trail (Tasmania)

* Saturday 3 November – Saturday 17 November 2007
This is a new Safari Trail – more information on the itinerary and inclusions will be available in May 2007. Register your interest at www.mynrma.com.au/safari or phone 1800 228 517.




Why Join?

• Relax & unwind, everything is organised for you! Caravan Parks, the itinerary, attractions and some meals.
• Learn more about your country from our experienced and knowledgeable tour leaders.
  
• Meet new, like-minded people and enjoy the camaraderie of group travel.
  
• Pick up useful ideas and helpful hints for future trips!
  
• See the outback & places you would never normally visit.

Excitement of travelling, with none of the hassles!

Cost
The cost for each Safari is from $2,450 including GST (per vehicle – two people).
This includes all caravan park fees, entry into major tourist attractions and some meals (see detailed itinerary for each Safari for the inclusions), Safari Manual with detailed daily itinerary and maps, and a participant welcome pack including backpack, polo shirt and hat.
A discount of $100 (per vehicle) is available for Members of a state motoring club.

More Information
For more information or a Safari Registration Pack, please log onto www.mynrma.com.au/safari or contact the Safari Project Manager (Kylie Elliott) on 1800 228 517 / kylie.elliott@mynrma.com.au

‘TRAIL BLAZING’: WINNER’S TALES

The road was flooded between Pink Lily & Rockhampton by Renny Williams 

While disconnecting our tow hitch on our Jayco Swan in Cooper Pedey by Phillip Hayes

Reversed into my allocated camp spot in a Cooper Peedy caravan park and disconnected from our camper trailer. Drove into town to have a drink in the underground bar and on leaving had the shock of my life. I noticed the spring clip to my Trig coupling sitting on the rear bumper of our Discovery. I then remembered that when I disconnected (you guessed it) I placed both the clip and the pin on the bumper. It took me 5 minutes to tell my wife how stupid I was and that it could have fallen of anywhere between the caravan park and the hotel. Where do you find a replacement in Cooper Peedy at 1730? We were pushing on to Alice the next morning. Slowly drove back to the park and completely searched the whole park area, particularly around the speed humps. NO LUCKKKK. Really worried now.... My wife was very forgiving and positive ( good lesson for me when she does something silly in the future. As we drove out to yet again re-trace our steps my wife noticed something shinny on top of a brick fence. YES YES YES someone had picked it up and placed it there. Absolute relief.(Mind you I have a spare, back in the garage at home) I slept well that night. Pushed on to Alice next morning and met up with a young family at a major fuel stop about 250klms north. He came over to ask me a question because he was also towing a Jayco Swan offroad camper trailer. During the conversation he noticed our trig coupling and said what is that (he had a standard coupling and had not seen a Trig before) When I explained how they worked he said that his two young children, while playing in the same caravan park the afternoon before had found an identical pin on the ground and his wife had placed it on the brick wall because someone may need it. What an incredable co-incidence when we told them of our situation and that this was the pin. Things happen for a reason and I am always gob smacked when this sort of thing happens. Perhaps it is meant to be. Moral of the story...Be supportive and positive when stupidity strikes... always carry a spare pin and clip. Regards Phil Hayes

Tag-along tour of the Canning Stock Route by Melanie Culnane

In 2006 we were invited to go on a tag-along tour of the Canning Stock Route. We had been given this invitation for at least the last 25 years by an enthusiastic friend, and had politely refused each time as we felt it just wasn't for us. However this time a little more pressure was placed upon us and we relented and accepted the offer. We arrived at Wiluna Caravan Park and met the rest of the convoy, and to our relief, all were very nice people, as after all we are about to spend the next 3 weeks in VERY close contact with them. Next morning after checking the gear, including the all important radios, tall vehicle flag, and of course the bathroom shovel, off we went. By morning tea, the size of the corrugations had been confirmed, and it looked like a long way north. As I was the only 'doubting Thomas" in the group, enthusiasm was running high amongst the rest of the group. After a night camped in a small dome tent on hard ground, with a self inflating swag mattress, (which went flat around midnight) day 2 dawned bright and early. The stock wells which we had all come to see and to follow the trail, proved an interesting proposition, with todays well containing a dead kangaroo. Now I know why we have excess drinking water on board. During the next couple of weeks, I learnt the meaning of P.L.D.(piddly little dune) and B.D.D.(big daddy dune). P.L.Ds proved easy but sometimes the B.D.Ds took a bit more cunning and a few tries before success was achieved. However the big thing we all learnt, was that teamwork was the key to success. We learnt not to pitch our tents in a camel squat after a big bull with 5 wives, told us it was his sleeping area every night and hunted us out. It teaches you very quickly what camel sleeping indentations look like, and every future night you check before setting up camp. Before leaving Wiluna I pictured the stock route as being all sandy desert, but of course this is not the case. Several large water holes provided an oasis with large shelter trees, Ingebong Hills provided a good morning's climb, the Diebil Hills with their wonderful aboriginal paintings proved quite spectacular, the wild flowers in bloom everywhere were a photographers delight. Some of the wells have been beautifully restored by the various 4/4 clubs and provided pristine drinking water. However the most delightful part of the whole trip, was a couple of long-drop toilets in camping areas. The people who built them must be congratulated, as it was no mean feat to carrry the equipment through the desert country on trailers, to build these amenities. The stock route proved to be a very beautiful part of Australia, it tests the quality of human endurance in todays society, and the quality of the vehicle you drive, and the amount of maintenance knowledge we aspire to have. People get to know one another in a very short space of time, after all if you find yourself comparing the adequacy of your bathroom shovel to your neighbours, then you know you really have become close friends. Having my teeth rattled out of my head every inch of the way with the corrugations, bull-dust and sand every step of the way, and overpowering heat each day, is not for the faint-hearted. Did I enjoy it? YES. Would I do it again? NEVER

We were stopping overnight at Daly Waters Caravan Park by Bev Hillier

We were stopping overnight at Daly Waters Caravan Park, on our big trip "1/2 way around Australia". I was guiding my husband Ian to back the van into place. I forgot to mention to him that there was a one metre tall sprinkler on a tripod base, at the back of the van. He decided to move back a little further to get off the road. Unfortunately the tripod base went through the back of the van. We spent the rest of the trip with a duct taped porthole. We later bought ourselves walkie talkies to help with reversing instructions!  

My real trail "blazing" adventure by Bob Emslie

My real trail "blazing" adventure was part of my journey from tent to caravan and involved a dark and stormy night, a session at the Porepunkah pub and a gas fridge. Stumbling into the tent in the dark, my head made violent contact with a large bulge in the roof where the rain had been trapped. This, of course, deposited most of the water through the roof all over me and my nearby bunk. "No problem", I thought (it had been a long session). "I'll just roll the wet blanket back and onto the fridge at the end of the bed". Sleep followed rapidly. The smell of burning blanket somehow awoke me or maybe it was just that time of night when nature calls loud enough. Whatever, the blanket had been deposited over the pilot light flue and was gently combusting. A larger blaze was narrowly averted but I had learnt my lesson. Alcohol, wet blankets and gas fridges don't mix. I sold the fridge.  

DON’T MISS THE BIG SHOWS!

Caravan and camping shows are a great way to purchase and see the latest release of products available. These events are also guaranteed to provide you with information on touring destinations, to ensure your next caravan, camping or motorhome adventure is a success.

NSW Caravan Camping and 4WD Supershow

When: 14 - 22 April 2007
Web: www.supershow.com.au
Where: Rosehill Race Course, Sydney

See over 400 exhibitors displaying caravans, motorhomes, camper trailers, camping tents and equipment, 4WD vehicles and accessories. PLUS see a range of holiday destination ideas on offer at the Caravan and Camping Supershow. This year free parking is available for more than 3000 cars on site.

Places to stay around the Sydney Show include:

Parklea Garden Village
Just 30 minutes from the heart of Sydney.

Majestic Drive, Parklea. Sydney. New South Wales. Australia. 2768
Ph: (02) 9629 1500
Fax: (02) 9629 4716
Website: www.sydney-accommodation.com.au/thepark.html

Governors Hill Carapark
Just one hour from Canberra and two hours from Sydney, Governor's Hill Carapark is situated two and a half kilometres north of the post office in Goulburn.
The park offers a range of accommodation options for the traveller, and has a fully stocked kiosk and LP gas.

In a peaceful bushland setting, Governor's Hill Carapark has a modern amenities block, fully equipped laundromat, babies' bathroom, disabled facilities, a playground, and barbecue area for guests on the verandah of the new camp kitchen, not far from the games room.

77 Sydney Road, Goulburn NSW 2580
Ph: (02) 4821 7373
Fax: (02) 4821 0269
Email: governorshillcp@bigpond.com.au
Website: http://www.argylecounty.com.au/governorshillcp/

Murramarang Resort / Eco Point Resorts
The concept of EcoPoint relies on providing nature based and eco-sympathetic resorts in stunning locations, on the shores of our beautiful beaches, lakes and harbours. Often they will be within our national parks and other unique landscapes.

With an excellent standard of accommodation and comprehensive facilities, EcoPoint Resorts are ideal for families and couples during weekends and vacations, and a perfect corporate retreat for meetings and conferences.

Level 10, 45 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: (02) 9277 5565
Fax: (02) 4478 6230
Website: www.ecopoint.com.au

Ocean Beach Holiday Park
Nestled in bushland on the very edge of the beach, Ocean Beach Holiday Park offers a stunning location for a quality family holiday. With a wide range of accommodation from five star villas with spas to caravan and camping sites, you can enjoy resort style facilities and service at a price you can afford. Just 1 hour North of Sydney!

Please feel free to contact us on 1800 611 522
regarding any enquiries you may have
Website: http://www.oceanbeachholidaypark.com.au

Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort
Your best and most affordable family vacation or weekend getaway begins at Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort. It's located in Fairy Meadow NSW less than one hour drive from Sydney's southern suburbs.
First rate yet inexpensive overnight or holiday accommodation prices begin from just $75 per night for a family of four in fully self contained motel style units. That's a super value deal you won't want to miss!

Pioneer Rd FAIRY MEADOWS NSW 2519
Phone: (02) 4283 6999 OR 1800 808 879
Fax: (02) 4285 1620
Email: enquires@wslr.com.au
Website: www.wslr.com.au

QLD Caravan Camping & Touring Holiday Show with the Motorhome & Campervan Show

When: 6-12 June 2007
Web:www.caravanqld.com.au
Where: RNA Show Grounds, Brisbane

Covering more than 70,000 square metres of exhibits, the Queensland Caravan, Camping & Touring Holiday Show is now one of the biggest shows in Australia. And at just $10 entry, it has to be one of the best investments for anyone buying or maintaining a caravan or simply planning a driving holiday.

Places to stay around the Brisbane Show include:

BIG4 Brisbane Northside Caravan Village
Big 4 Brisbane Northside Caravan Village is a top quality tourist accommodation complex conveniently located close to excellent transport facilities, shops, restaurants and clubs. The Village is situated only 10 kilometres from the Brisbane International Airport and 12 kilometres from the city centre.

763 Zillmere Road (cnr Zillmere & Dorville Roads) Aspley
Phone: 07 3263 4040
Website: http://www.caravanvillage.com.au/

Brisbane Holiday Village
Brisbane Holiday Village offers the ultimate getaway for families, couples or groups wanting to kick back, unwind and enjoy being together. No matter what option you choose - from self contained cabins through to camping or caravan site - Brisbane Holiday Village promise you value for money and an unforgettable holiday.

10 Holmead Road Eight Mile Plains
Phone: 07 3341 6133
Email: sales@brisbaneholiday.com.au
Website: www.brisbaneholiday.com.au

Brisbane Gateway Village Resort
Gateway Village Resort is the perfect location from which to enjoy a great Brisbane holiday and explore Brisbane and South-east Queensland from the city life to the fabulous sights and attractions of our region.

If your looking for a fresh holiday experience and a friendly place to stay and relax you must come and see us and discover the wonderful spacious environment we have to offer... so close to the city!

200 School Road Rochedale
Phone: 07 3341 6333 
Email: bookings@gatewayvillage.com.au
Website: http://www.gatewayvillage.com.au/

A COMPETITION: ABOUT WOMEN!

We're giving away ten copies of Dennis Austin's (of Austin's Caravans Tasmania) new book 'About Women'. All you have to do is tell us in thirty words or less who makes a better navigator: men or women? We will pick the ten most amusing responses received by 5pm Wednesday 11 April 2007. Winners will be announced in the next eNewsletter.

If you miss out on the competition, the book is available from Austins Caravans website www.austinscaravans.com.au. The cost is $12.00 including postage. Dennis is offering a moneyback guarantee if you don't get at least 20 laughs. Enjoy!

CHOC FREE EVENTS

Urban Country Music Festival Caboolture (27 – 30 April 2007)

Situated only 40 minutes drive from Brisbane and 30 minutes from the Sunshine Coast, the QUT Urban Country Music Festival at Caboolture offers four days of non stop entertainment.

Web: www.urbancountry.com.au

Places to stay around the Urban Country Music Festival Caboolture include:

Australian Golf Heritage Festival (24 – 29 May 2007)

The Australian Golf Heritage Festival will be staged around Tasmania, at multiple heritage properties, golf courses and choice restaurants. The long weekend includes a mix of history tours and talks, social and championship golf, as well as enjoying Tasmania's fine food and wines. All funds raised will go towards important Tasmanian golfing charities, including the restoration of Australia's Oldest Golf Course

Web: http://rathogolf.com/3187122/australian-golf-heritage-festival.htm

Places to stay around the Australian Golf Heritage Festivalinclude:

Iluka Holiday Centre

Iluka Holiday Centre at Freycinet National Park in Coles Bay, Tasmania offers a full range of accommodation and amenities including a tavern, bakery, and shop.

Accommodation includes cabins and self-contained units, a YHA hostel, and powered and un-powered campsites.

Iluka is situated in the heart of Coles Bay, Tasmania directly opposite Muir's Beach and only 1 km away from Freycinet National Park (Shuttle services operate daily to the park).

Address: Coles Bay Esplanade, Coles Bay, Tasmania 7215 Australia
Ph: 03 62570115
Fax: 03 62570384
Freecall: 1800786512
Email:ilukaholidaycentre@bigpond.com
Website: http://www.ilukaholidaycentre.com.au

LeisureVille Holiday Centre

LeisureVille Holiday Centre in Wynyard Tasmania is a great place to stay.

There is a range of accommodation from 4 star villas, deluxe and economically priced cabins and sites for motor homes, caravans or tents.

Address: 145 Old Bass Highway, Wynyard, Tasmania, Australia 7325
Ph: 03 6442 2291
Fax: 03 6442 3058
Freecall: 1800786512
Email: mail@leisureville.com.au
Web: http://www.leisureville.com.au

Anzac Day Tradition at Australian War Memorial (25 April 2007)

ANZAC Day was first commemorated at the Australian War Memorial in 1942. Today the ANZAC ceremony is attended by thousands of official guests and visitors, held outside the Memorial on the parade ground. This moving event is followed by the laying of floral wreaths and flowers at the Tomb.

Web: http://www.awm.gov.au/commemoration/commemoration.htm