18. Dec/Jan 2016
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CAMPING WITH The caravan born THE STARS NORMIE ROWE
in the Space Age WHATEVER and why it failed take off HAPPENED TO PRISCILLA? CARAVANS IN THE MOVIES
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Leyland's Australia On the road again in Beechworth Time to Roam_August2015.pdf 1 20/07/2015 12:03:19 PM
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2 timetoroam.com.au www.inlandwaters.com.au www.northcoastholidayparks.com.au www.southcoastparks.com.au Time to Roam_August2015.pdf 1 20/07/2015 12:03:19 PM
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18
DEC/JAN 2016 upfront 07 / SUMMER OF SUCCESS Camping industry predicts great start to 2016
09 / LEGO DREAM COMES TRUE Life-size caravan smashes record
11 / VALE RICHARD DAVIS Farewell to an industry giant WHATEVER HAPPENED TO 12 / LETTERS & FEEDBACK Towing licence worth a re-think? PRISCILLA? features 14 / CARAVANS IN THE MOVIES Whatever happened to Priscilla?
18 / MURRUMBA STAR The caravan born in the Space Age on the roam 38 / RENO RESCUE Bessie has an extreme makeover 42 / VICTORIA’S EL DORADO 38 The Leylands journey to Beechworth BESSIE HAS AN EXTREME 56 / CELEBRITY CAMPER 49 / MY TOP FIVE Pop icon Normie Rowe MAKEOVER Safely sharing the coast with birds
52 / EAST COAST HOLIDAY JEWEL tried+tested The secret is out on this unspoilt playground 26 / LIVING EDGE VENETIAN 54 / FOOD AND FLAVOURS 54 Meet the luxury van called ‘Eric’ Shoalhaven: the perfect gourmet getaway THE PERFECT GOURMET 30 / WIRRAWAY EUROSTYLE GETAWAY 58 / AROUND THE SHOWS This 4x4 takes comfort to the max Rallies and Awards, who was there? 34 / PIONEER ARGYLE SE 62 / TRADES AND SERVICES Camper with style and substance ON THE COVER Murrumba Star Mini and EH Holden 40 / BUSINESS AND PRODUCTS 64 / WHAT’S ON photographed at East Ballina NSW. What kind of bike suits you? Australia’s best guide to regional events Photo by Paul A Broben
4 timetoroam.com.au 2015 MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR*
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Editor’s desk In this issue we welcome to Mal and Laraine Leyland as they go back on the road in their first regular reporting gig in more than a decade.
For their firstTime to Roam feature, Australia’s specially designed by a nomad. “First Couple of Camping” headed off in their Finally there’s Australia’s most radical Horizon motorhome to Beechworth in Victoria. caravan renovation, a 1970s Viscount There they spent a few days soaking up completely transformed. Dare I ask, have they history and enjoying all the local attractions. gone too far? Let me know what t you think. We’re thrilled to have people of their I hope you enjoy this our 18th issue. experience discovering and sharing the Thank you for your support as we get set to really special stories from around the country embark on our fourth year of publishing. in a way only the Leylands know how. Best wishes to you and your family for a safe I really hope you enjoy Mal and and happy Christmas and holiday season. Laraine’s first ROAM feature. Don’t forget if you’d like to “Ask the Leylands” to visit Rod Bruem, [email protected] your area, please drop me a line. For caravan lovers there are three Time to Roam Australia welcomes great features to enjoy in this issue. The letters, photos and contributions first is Australia’s weirdest caravan, the from our readers on just about story of the Murrumba Star Mini. any subject that relates to We also have a review of one of the caravanning and camping. country’s brilliant new luxury caravans [email protected]
Ph: 02 6621 2463 #18Executive Editor Seb Stephens Subscribe: Subscription form on page 66 or via the Editor website www.timetoroam.com.au Rod Bruem e [email protected] Time to Roam is published bi-monthly and Journalist Chris Ashton distributed by Time to Roam Australia Pty Ltd e [email protected] Australia’s favourite PO Box 999 Lismore NSW 2480 Travel Editors At Large We welcome letters and contributions caravan, camping and Mal and Laraine Leyland from our readers. travel magazine. Contributors Enquiries [email protected] Paul A Broben, David Cook, Richard Robertson, timetoroam.com.au National Sales Manager Oliver Pfeiffer, Cathy Wagner, Geoff Tangey Phill Terry Proudly Printed in Australia by m 0425 255 495 e [email protected] Time to Roam encourages recycling and Offset Alpine, Lidcombe NSW
Environment is printed on paper sourced from ISO 14001
Certification applies to Offset Alpine Printing sustainable forests Distribution & Office Manager Design and Production Marianne Martin Mitch Morgan Design e [email protected] mitchmorgandesign.com
Legal: Time to Roam is copyright, with editorial and advertisements the exclusive property of Time to Roam Australia Pty Australia Post Registered Print publication: Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. 100009867 ABN 24160144525
6 timetoroam.com.au upfront | industry news
Caravan Park Crisis: Action at last
The NSW and WA Governments have both announced reviews of out-dated caravan park regulations, a move which could free up more spaces for tourists. It’s estimated as many as 10,000 visitor spaces have been lost over the past decade as parks have been redeveloped or used for low cost permanent housing. Duncan Gay Caravan Park researcher Rod Caldicott of Southern Cross University says government regulations are exacerbating the problem, Rego rip off: NSW still pondering relief making it difficult to open new parks. NSW has now followed WA in The NSW Government says it’s still considering a review of caravan and RV announcing a review, both proposing a rego costs, despite promising to act before the last state election. change of planning laws to streamline There’s a huge disparity in rego costs around the country with NSW and approval processes and cut red tape. ACT residents slugged the hardest. They pay hundreds of dollars more to The Caravan Camping Industry register caravans than Victorians, who pay a flat annual fee of $55. Association is closely involved in both Prior to the last state election, NSW Roads Minister Duncan Gay reviews and members of the public are announced a proposal to bring NSW charges more in line with those in also invited to make submissions. Victoria. If accepted, rego costs could fall as much as 45 per cent. A spokesman for the Minister says the proposal is still being looked at.
Slim Dusty’s caravan now on show NSW’s Mid North Coast has a major new cultural attraction with the long-awaited opening of the Slim Dusty Museum at Kempsey. Taking pride of place in the multi million dollar centre #18 is a late-1950s Orford caravan built for Slim and his wife Joy McKean. For 17 years the couple called a caravan home as they toured the country performing. The new museum captures the life and times of the celebrated Australian music legend, and is easily accessed from the Pacific Highway south Kempsey exit, with parking for RVs.
Opening Slim Dusty Centre. (L-R) Dr. David Kirkpatrick, Daniel & Hugo Kirkpatrick, Joy McKean & Anne Kirkpatrick
Joy McKean with the Orford caravan and “Old Purple”, Australia Post Registered Print publication: their 1971 Ford Fairlane ZD with 351,000 miles on the clock 100009867 ABN 24160144525 Photos by Julia Morrell Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 7 upfront | industry news
Caravan for a cause: Harry’s House Harry’s House is a new mobile retreat family adventures,and complements giving a break to families with children the original Harry’s House Family undergoing cancer treatment. Retreat in Stockton Beach, NSW. The motorhome has been The Retreat is available free of named in memory of Harry Meyn, charge to families of children living with who died after being diagnosed cancer and is also open to families with a brain tumour at age six. grieving the loss of a child to cancer. Harry’s House offers relief to families Harry’s House is made possible by the facing the emotional and financial strain Harry Meyn Foundation, which relies on that often comes when children are donations to meet running costs. diagnosed and treated for cancer. harryshouse.com.au The Avida Ceduna is equipped for
Know of a caravan or RV being used for a good cause? Share the story with our readers [email protected] Get set for a Best of the great New Year Australia’s caravan and camping industry is set for a Best named strong start to 2016 with record RV production and a NSW’s leading caravan industry low dollar boosting the appeal of holidays at home. businesses and people have been Stuart Lamont, CEO of the Caravan Industry Association, recognised like never before with a gala says more people are turning to caravan holidays awards function on Sydney Harbour. every year and there are no signs of it slowing. Horizon Motorhomes and BIG4 “For the third year running caravans and Koala Shores Port Stephens were the campervans are the fastest growing vehicle big winners, taking out prized “Best of registration group in Australia,” Mr Lamont says. the Best” awards for their respective The National Visitors Survey by Tourism Research categories. Australia shows caravanning and camping is the fasting North Coast Holiday Parks’ Amber Winners: Ballina growing accommodation type, up seven per cent. Kolo was named Young Employee Of The Year. Motorhomes Clayton Sales of new caravans, motorhomes and campers Guests praised the NSW Caravan and Camping Industry Kearney with Anthony is expanding at roughly the same rate. September Association for organising the new higher profile awards format Laver from Tourism NSW. RV production figures showed a 7.4 per cent to celebrate the industry’s top achievers. More photos: page 60. compared to the first nine months of 2014.
8 timetoroam.com.au upfront | industry news
The NCC Motorhome & Camping Show LEGO caravan sets world record Childhood dreams came to life includes a sink with running water, for 12 people recently when they cooking facilities and a bed. were given the chance to build a The teardrop now holds the caravan entirely out of LEGO. Guinness Record for “the largest The ambitious project took the caravan build with interlocking bricks”. team 12 weeks to complete, using It was unveiled recently at more than 215,000 individual pieces. a caravan show in England to Measuring 2.2m tall and 3.6m celebrate 130 years of leisure long, the fully functioning caravan caravanning in the UK.
Elite
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 9 upfront | parks news
17. Oct/Nov 2015 RRP $5.95 Don’t miss an Issue – you can now
CAMPING WITH THE STARS TV’S KING AND QUEEN OF CAMPING SAVING THE GREAT AUSSIE buy ROAM at Newsagents all over OZ CARAVAN PARK We Ask REVIEWED AUSTRALIA’S BEST BUDGET MOTORHOME The Leylands REVEALED Mal and Laraine's next big adventure BUYERS DUPED BY TOWING ADVICE To subscribe or order back issues phone Marianne -02 6621 2463 RENO RESCUE Viscount lemon now a beauty
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Wauchope Show Society President Bob Kennett at the site Wauchope rolls out welcome mat The NSW Mid North Coast town of Wauchope has received a major boost for RV tourism, with camping facilities at the town’s showground given a major overhaul. MAKEOVER FOR TOP TOURIST PARKS State Government grants totaling almost half Top Tourist Parks has announced its nearly 200 parks will operate a million dollars have been used to under a new name, Top Parks after a major rebrand. replace overhead power cables with underground To make it easier for travellers to find the right park, properties will now fall wiring. Water outlets for each of the 16 van into three distinct categories - Top Caravan Parks, Top Holiday Parks and Top sites were added at the same time. Resort Parks. Each will specifically cater to the needs of different travellers. Wauchope no longer has a commercial Top Tourist Parks CEO Stuart Livingstone says it was clear people were seeking caravan park and other spaces in the Hastings different experiences from their stay, and the new categories reflect that. have been lost due to redevelopment. “We are smashing the myth that holiday parks are only for travellers The Wauchope Show Society seized the with a caravan,” he says. “It’s an exciting time for Top Parks.” opportunity to fill the void and also generate some much needed revenue for the community.
New park for Sunshine Coast Garbage blamed for free site closure A Brisbane-based investment group has lodged The Tweed region has lost a free the Murwillumbah Showground. plans to build a motel, caravan park and residential campsite with the local council blaming Mr Connell says council understands care facility on a beachfront site in Marcoola. campers for dumping garbage. the need to keep up with the times and The 5.5 hectare site is earmarked to house a 57-site Tweed Council says Bruce Chick Park provide a free option for travellers, but caravan park. It is yet to be approved by council. had evolved into a free camping site, the idea is not without its challenges. but it was never designed for it. “The industry is changing and we Located just off the Pacific Motorway need to catch up,” he says. “The RV beside the Tweed River, the park market is one we want to tap into, WA park plans under threat was originally set up by a former but it needs to be done properly.” councillor as a botanical reserve. “Council is looking for another suitable There are reports the WA Government may Tweed Director Planning and Regulation area within the hinterland, but would abandon plans for a new caravan park at Vince Connell said council felt that the need to balance the financial outlay with Lancelin after three years of planning. value of the site was being degraded. the potential return on investment”. Lancelin, 127km north of Perth, was identified “People were abusing the park “Legislative hurdles for even the most as one of the state’s top three places in need of a and dumping rubbish - it was basic of free campgrounds require new park in 2012. A 10-hectare site was selected getting run down,” he said. significant financial outlay to establish. however work to clear bushland was stopped Council has however opened up We don't want to place a drain on after the discovery of an endangered plant. a new low-cost site 20km inland at council funds,” Mr Connell said.
10 timetoroam.com.au upfront | parks news
Farewell to an industry giant Tributes have been flowing for caravanning industry legend Richard Davis who died suddenly after competing in a car rally aged 70.
Mr Davis was a successful tackling issues of concern, he made businessman having owned caravan headlines in 2014 calling for much parks on South Australia’s Yorke tougher regulations to crack down on free Peninsula and later in Adelaide. camping and create a more level playing He’d been a key player in the tourism field for commercial park operators. industry over many years serving as CEO of the Caravan Industry Association President of Caravan Parks SA for over of Australia Stuart Lamont described four decades. He stepped down only last Mr Davis as a gentleman who was very September. He was awarded the Order of generous with his time willing to serve. Australia for his services to tourism in 1999. “His enthusiasm for tourism shone Known as the “grandfather” through as he passionately spoke and of accreditation for his efforts to championed for an industry he loved. improve standards and products There are many who are much the better within the industry, Davis was also for having known or crossed paths one of its most vocal champions. with Richard,” Mr Lamont said. Never one to back away from
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Towing licence needn’t be difficult Let's continue to see a little more debate regarding towing licences. There's a lot to be said in favour of it when you take into regard the numbers of accidents we see involving caravans, trailers and semis. From Mal Leyland at Beechworth, VIC. I’ve been towing for about 45 years and I started with box trailers, moving up to boats, campers, small A preview of photos from their first travel story in 15 years. Mal said it's like we're back on the road again doing the Leylands! vans and now confidently haul a 6.5m caravan. A lot of experience could be shared TIMETOROAM.COM.AU through basic towing courses. This could be offered either from adult education, Like Comment Share U3A, or a similar organisation, say over 20 hours. The instructors must be experienced and be able to
51 people like this. demonstrate and talk about driving with a van attached, loading, laws, speeds, UHF, courtesy, help, maintenance 12 shares and handling. Once completed, drivers could get an endorsement, either on your licence or a separate card. 16. Aug/Sep 2015 RRP $5.95
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CAMPING WITH THE STARS SURFING LEGEND LAYNE BEACHLEY both young and old all soaking up Australia. Please 5 comments of 16 be safe out there this holiday season. Margaret Grant Wonderful to see you both on the road doing what you do best. Will follow your stories and hope to see you on OUR journeys Zillah and Charles Williams 'somewhere in the great outdoors'. Travel safe Mal and Laraine. Like • Reply Greg Fallon Great that you are back on the road again. Hopefully we will meet up out on the highway somewhere. We are part Can’t get enough of the Rotary Nomads travelling across Australia performing My father in law is just getting Community Service work as we go. Good Luck Mal! the hang of typing so I'm writing Like • Reply this on his behalf without him Mary Lamb Love the Leylands and their travelling around 17. Oct/Nov 2015 knowing. He thinks your mag RRP $5.95 Australia. It was the inspiration for my parents to take us travelling is the best thing since his early for holidays when I was a kid. So many awesome memories. 1980s Coleman camper trailer. CAMPING WITH THE STARS • TV’S KING AND QUEEN Like Reply OF CAMPING
Everywhere he goes (and he SAVING THE GREAT AUSSIE CARAVAN PARK Bernice Wuttke Ask the Leylands inspired us to travel Australia. We even goes a lot of places) the first REVIEWED We Ask BEST AND WORST bought a tent that they had and still have it. In 1992 when crossing the RV MOVIES thing he does is go searching REVEALED The Leylands 4WD BUYERS DUPED Tanami, we visited the Wolfe Creek Crater and discussed their presentation for a copy of Time to Roam. BY TOWING ADVICE Travel icon’s next big adventure
of when they drove their 4 Wheeler down the side to the bottom. RENO RESCUE He can't get enough. I reckon timetoroam.com.au Viscount lemon now a beauty Like • Reply it's damned good too. Malcolm Robertson I've followed you both from the start. Good luck with third time round. Hope you get a show on Sunday nights at about 6pm. Mitch Lewis, Sydney Like • Reply
12 timetoroam.com.au letters | feedback
Why can’t we have a 12 months caravan warranty? I must congratulate you for the way you have developed your magazine. I have collected almost every copy since it’s inception and continue to enjoy your broad outlook. My main purpose for contacting you is to pass on a very interesting tip I received from another friendly caravanner alongside me recently, in response to the letter in your last issue concerning caravan gas explosions. My friend is a plumber/gas fitter who recommended that I carry a small spray bottle of soapy water. After travelling he said to spray each of the hose fittings around the gas connections to ensure the hoses have not moved. A small fizzy bubbling will occur should there be a leak at any of the points. I intend to follow this tip as it and in some cases can obtain more cover with Roadside Assist. makes good sense to me and I suggest others should try it too. This warranty system leaves a lot to be desired and there is Another point of interest I wanted to raise is, how does the not enough consumer support for the new purchaser. caravan industry get away with offering only a twelve months Keep up the good work and I will keep enjoying your magazine. warranty when purchasing a new van? When one purchases a new motor vehicle one can get up to seven years on warranty Neil Evans Woolgoolga NSW
Time to Roam Australia welcomes letters, photos and contributions from our readers on just about any subject that relates to caravanning and camping. [email protected]
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 13 upfront | news feature
Just shy of 80, June Marie Bennett can still kick up her heels like a star Whatever happened
– a silver bus that can be painted pink.” to Priscilla? Art Director Colin Gibson says meeting Elliott’s demand was tough because the budget wasn’t there for a Greyhound, even a well-used one. Marking the 21st anniversary of Australia’s most Hiring was not an option because they needed to make so many modifications during shooting. iconic road movie, we go in search of its unsung Finally after months of searching they found their star and Priscilla the star, the big silver bus. bus became a travelling set. “We had crew in the floor, in the baggage BY OLIVER PFEIFFER The idea of basing a movie around three drag section and behind any piece of furniture queens journeying across the outback in a in shot” Elliott says. “I would yell ‘cut!’ bus seems an unlikely plot for success. and literally 35 people would appear Even as it celebrates its 21st anniversary, from nowhere – it was very funny!” the movie Priscilla, Queen of the Desert seems When Priscilla turned pink half way through more than a little unusual. Yet it remains a the movie Gibson had a unique way to groundbreaking cinema classic, conquering solve the continuity problem. “I chose her the world and even winning an Oscar for its because she had paneled units running outrageous costumes. The movie spurned down the sides, knowing we could flip those a hit global stage musical, earning creator over from scene to scene. It was easier to Stephan Elliott more riches and acclaim. change the panels than the entire bus.” The Sydney-born writer and director When the film became a box office says it was always about the bus. hit, Priscilla the bus went on some “I had the idea of this great, classic slim- colourful adventures of her own. lined silver Greyhound,” he says. “We looked “She became the tour bus for (rock band) at all sorts of buses but I said it’s got to look The Whitlams,” Elliott says. “Then she was like a Greyhound that’s going somewhere caught in a custody battle between the
14 timetoroam.com.au upfront | news feature owners, who were hiding her from one home on display inside the famous Palace Hotel. another like a child held to ransom. It was here some of the most celebrated That’s when we lost sight of her.” movie scenes were shot, including a From that time on, details of confrontation where “Drunken Shirley” what happened to Priscilla the takes on the drag queen Bernadette, movie star bus are scarce. played by Terence Stamp. Much easier to track down is The Shirl was played by Broken Hill theatre bus from Priscilla the stage musical. doyen June Marie Bennett who managed Nothing like a classic Greyhound, to turn the tiny part into something more. it’s actually a very complex piece “When Priscilla was shot back in of stage equipment, costing more 1993 we had no idea what it was about than a million dollars to build. or what I was in for,” Bennett says. When the show finished, Stephan Elliott “I walked in to the auditions and saw donated it to the City of Broken Hill. Guy Pearce in tights standing on top of Now Priscilla sits inside the cathedral- a piano and I thought, what is this? like halls of one of the Silver City’s disused “I’m used to doing Broadway shows and power stations. The NSW Government pretty things. I turned up at 6.30am wearing a spent a small fortune transforming the shirt with a black bra and my husband’s singlet classic 1930s building into movie studios underneath. The producer made me take my for the latest installment of Mad Max. With shirt off and appear in the bra and singlet. wet weather forcing the shoot to move “I had to get drunker and drunker but I’ve to Africa, Priscilla the bus has been the never drunk alcohol in my life,” she says. only star to grace the empty studios. Proof that small parts can lead to great To mark the 21st anniversary of the things, Bennett subsequently landed movie in 2015, Priscilla was taken out two other movie roles and was awarded of storage and paraded in downtown an Order of Australia in 2012 for her Broken Hill for the first time. services to theatre and the community. Locals hope she’ll find a permanent > 60 years of caravan and RV movies - next page
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 15 upfront | news feature
The Hills Have Eyes A family lost in the wilderness seeks refuge in The Long, Long Trailer their motorhome from none too friendly strangers, Lucille Ball stars in the classic comedy caper where a proving a “safe” RV can be terrifying in a confined honeymooning couple embark on an adventure crossing cinema. So scary, a sequel was shot in 2007. America towing a 36-foot long caravan. Unforgettable scenes as the whacky redhead attempts to cook dinner on a cliffhanging ride through mountains.
Spaceballs John Candy and Bill Pullman pilot a supped-up, intergalactic Winnebago 1977 Star Wars parody from Mel Brooks. 1953
1987 The Lost World: Jurassic Park Another literal cliffhanger for a motorhome from Steven Spielberg. Caravan and 1997 motorhome movies About Schmidt through the years Jack Nicholson learns a few life lessons as makes his way to his What to watch (or maybe not) when daughter’s wedding in a Winnebago. you’re tucked in for the night in your RV 2002
We’re the Millers Jennifer Aniston and Jason Sudeikis use a motorhome to smuggle Meet the Fockers drugs from Mexico, disguising A state-of-the-art Fleetwood Pace Arrow, themselves as a vacationing complete with built-in command centre, is family, complete with fake kids. used for interrogation purposes. Robert De Niro stars as an uptight CIA operative in what will not be remembered as one of his greatest.
2013 2012 2004 2006
Sightseers Proving the UK can make scary caravan movies too, an idyllic trip Runaway Vacation to the Lake District turns nasty. Robin Williams gets into all sorts of family calamity, battling the vehicle’s many mod-cons, including multiple slide-outs.
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1300 JAYCO RV JAYCO.COM.AU feature | murrumba star
THE CARAVAN BORN IN THE SPACE AGE The story of the amazing Murrumba Star Mini.
BY ROD BRUEM
A year before man landed on the for locally-assembled MG sports moon this space capsule landed cars. His most popular makeover in Caboolture Queensland. was the MGB Gran Turismo. It’s no accident that it looks like something Legend has it Pusterla’s designs out of an animated space age TV series of were so popular, he sold his business the 1960s, the Thunderbirds or the Jetsons. called International Styling to take up Even today it would be right at home as a a job offer with Chrysler in Detroit. futuristic concept vehicle on display at one Whether or not he made it as far of the world’s big annual caravan shows. as Motown is hard to say, although it The Murrumba Star Mini was a caravan seems unlikely given that in 1968 he ahead of its time and that was its weakness was traveling around Australia testing as well as its claim to fame. It was too far out a light-weight fibreglass camper. ahead of time to be a commercial success. Designed to slide easily on to the back It started out as the dream of an of a ute, he named the prototype the avant-garde designer by the name of Linda Star after his small daughter. Anthony Pusterla. He shot to fame in The polyester fibreglass reinforced plastic the motor industry in the 1960s when he was claimed to be “three times as strong as designed stylish hard-top conversions > continued on page 20
18 timetoroam.com.au feature | murrumba star
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 19 Mu feature | murrumba star Murrumba Star Minis were marketed steel at one third of the cost”. It should be noted that this was in the Australia-wide, but few were actually built and sold days before consumer laws came in requiring truth in advertising. According to its first sales brochure, “The camper weighs only 550lbs yet is made of 35 miles of continuous fibreglass to make outer and inner shells. To achieve strength, there are no right angles in its construction. The Linda Star is 12ft 3ins long, with a width of 6ft 4ins and has a capacity of 350cu. ft.” Just like a spaceship, the Linda Star boasted a hatch rather than a door as well as an ingenious concealed drop-down lifting system with four telescopic jacks neatly slotting into each corner slot of the van that could be easily raised or lowered with a winding handle. Pusterla set out from Brisbane on a 10,000-mile test trip to see how the Linda Star stood up under Australian conditions. He endured tropical rains on the Atherton Tablelands in far north Queensland. Then in Townsville, he claimed to have deliberately left the holding bolts off to see what would happen when the Linda Star fell from the back of the ute. According to a report, “he was going up a rise on a deserted road at about 40 miles an hour when the capsule slid off on to the bitumen. It bounced about 15ft and then slid off into the bush, but there was hardly a mark on the exterior. He had fun getting it back, but he did it single-handed when no passing motorist stopped - they just waved to him in good-humoured fashion.” From there it was down to Sydney to test it in Australia’s worst traffic conditions. “The construction method showed no signs of deterioration and had no adverse effects on driving or handling of the utility, and no noticeable fall in performance. At speeds up to > continued on page 22
20 timetoroam.com.au SOLE NSW DEALER
Australian owned and established in 2012 by John, Rick & Tony who between them have 72 years of combined experience in the caravan industry. Living Edge Caravans offer a variety of quality built caravans with a superior finish and excellent workmanship. Living Edge Caravans are RVM Australia accredited and each van comes with a Certificate of Electrical Safety (Energy Safe Victoria).
Download the Living Edge Caravans brochure at www.camdencaravan.com.au
Contact the team at Camden Caravans 66 Camden Valley Way, Elderslie, NSW 2570 Ph: 02 4658 1929 Fax: 02 4658 1920 [email protected]
www.camdencaravan.com.au
20150717-TTR-Livingedge-FP-v3.indd 1 21/07/2015 6:53 pm feature | murrumba star
(Above) Before the fibreglass capsule Murrumba Star 60 miles per hour, fuel consumption did caravans in his factory at Caboolture. had already established a good reputation in the 1960s not deteriorate to any great extent.” Together they worked on taking the Linda for building well-appointed aluminium caravans. Everywhere Pusteria went, the Linda Star to the mass market and also worked on Star drew crowds who stopped, stared developing a tandem-wheeled caravan version. and asked heaps of questions. It was called the MiniStar to capitalise on At one of his Queensland stops the claim it could be towed by the popular Pusterla met up with Ken Duncombe Mini car of the era. The 4.1m van with light who was the enterprising owner of tubular steel chassis weighed just 362kgs. the Murrumba Star Caravans. Pusterla insisted on further improvements Duncombe was then at the height of his with the caravan door changing to open career, building large and stylish aluminium in a conventional swing-to manner. The front window was redesigned to let in fresh air and the overall appearance was improved by the addition of a vinyl grain to the sides, roof and door. Duncombe promoted the vans extensively through his national dealership, although it’s believed only a small number of either the LindaStar or the MiniStar were ever built. The relatively high cost and complexity of full-fibreglass manufacturing at the time
22 timetoroam.com.au feature | murrumba star meant they weren’t a great commercial proposition. Duncombe eventually sold the Murrumba Star business to Canadian company Glendale and the Caboolture factory went into receivership and closed in the early 1970s. As for Anthony Pusteria, he remained passionate about the potential for light-weight fibreglass caravans and campers. He reportedly went on to develop several more protoypes in partnership with other companies. At one stage he branched out on his own and established Linda Caravans Pty Ltd, building the Linda Walkabout slide-on camper. In late 1978, Caravan World magazine reported Tony Pusterla had teamed up with Olympic Caravans to build a large futuristic van called a “Series 2000”. The records show as late as 1992, Anthony Francis Pusterla took out a patent for a prototype lightweight fibreglass jet ski. Unfortunately the gifted designer’s passion for fibreglass caravans and campers was never fully appreciated by the Australian public. All of the camper production runs were ultimately short lived and like the Linda and Mini Stars, any surviving Pusterla fibreglass creations are extremely rare and increasingly valuable collector’s items.
By Rod Bruem. Additional research from vintagecaravans. proboards.com and Robert Ryan at Trailerlife.com
See Australia your way and discover the beauty of adventure at Perkins Caravans Lismore
Services & Products Perkins Caravans is your one-stop caravan shop Repairs & Maintenance operating for over 35 years. Caravan Storage
Perkins Caravans 137-147 Union Street, South Lismore, NSW 2480 Phone Craig or Kevin on (02) 6621 7146 or visit www.perkinscaravans.com.au
Laraine shows off yet another Leyland’s film innovation
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 23 feature | murrumba star
Meet the cover model
Graeme and Kim Boyne confess to properly and a lot of fibreglass products being compulsive caravan collectors. made then can’t handle UV exposure.” Their four sons would use stronger The couple look forward to taking the language to describe the couple’s love for restored Murrumba Mini to the National Vintage caravans and desire to collect them. Caravan Rally at South West Rocks next April. Both admit to being under strict After that, Graeme says he’d consider orders not to buy any more. selling it so he can start work restoring one of It’s a love that started on their honeymoon the many other vans down the paddock. in Queensland – in a caravan of course. Although their sons can’t believe Now, 25 years later, they’re proud owners they’d actually part with a caravan, of one of the largest vintage caravan fleets they’re overjoyed at the prospect. in Australia. At last count there were more than 20 dotting the back paddock behind their home on the outskirts of Ballina NSW. Several of them are unique. Most are awaiting restoration, something Graeme plans to spend more time on once he retires. Of all the fleet, Graeme and Kim admit to having a soft spot for Murrumba Stars and at the moment they have three Minis and two Linda Star slide-ons. “People ask is a boat or is it a caravan. It really is the most unique caravan ever built and people can’t believe it was made in 1968,” Kim says. Graeme says the hundreds of hours he put into restoring the Murrumba Mini gave him a good insight into why their production was shortlived. “They’re made in two halves and cemented together in the middle. They just didn’t have the products back in the 1960s to do this
24 timetoroam.com.au tried + tested | caravan review
TRIED + A nomad’s dream TESTED come true
Review by Rod Bruem Tried and Tested Living Edge Venetian 7.2c ‘Eric’ RRP $117,695
26 timetoroam.com.au tried + tested | caravan review
Camden Caravan's Anthony Rolfe
It’s the ultimate luxury van called ‘Eric’ - LIVING EDGE VENETIAN named after the seasoned caravanner who 7.2C ‘ERIC’ helped fine-tune the design.
If you’re a long-time caravan owner who’s Living Edge is a relatively new brand, its three Body done some serious travelling over the years owners John Candido, Rick Butcher and Tony Length 7.2m then you get to a stage where you know Cutrone started manufacturing in Craigieburn Height 3150 exactly what works and what doesn’t. Victora in 2012. The three partners bring Width 2450 And so it was for Eric Rolfe who retired and then together decades of experience in caravan spent 20 weeks every year travelling in various building, with qualifications respectively in caravans around various parts of the country. plumbing, cabinet making and upholstery. Eric’s son Anthony just happens to be the This experience is evident in the Weight owner of Camden Caravans in Sydney’s south quality and workmanship of their RVM- 2940kg west. When he decided last year to add the accredited product. They’ve set out to Living Edge range of caravans to his line up Eric build at a higher standard and it shows. worked with Anthony to help design the top of the range model exclusive to Camden Carvans. > continued on page 28 Warranty 12 months
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 27 tried + tested | caravan review
They’ve also taken to marketing the range Dometic three-way fridge. It’s slightly elevated Stepping out there’s an electric double a little differently. to save bending down too much. Nice touch. step to take you back to ground level – the Living Edge caravans come in ten different Upfront is a spacious lounge area with nice added height comes from the fact the wheels floor layouts ranging in length from 5.4m up to and firm real leather seating. It folds down (16 inch alloys combined with Cruisemaster 7.2m. These ten layouts are available in three to create another queen bed if required. suspension) are below floor level. This gives different levels of luxury. Rio models are the There are numerous LED lights throughout, all added clearance height and means there are no standard, although Living Edge’s level of standard neatly recessed in the ceiling. The sleek lighting wheel arches protruding into the caravan itself. inclusions is pretty impressive. Next comes and quality finishes add to the sense of luxury, Other external features include a 150w solar the Bellagio level which includes even more while the climate can be controlled whatever system with two batteries, two gas bottles, luxuries like a bigger fridge, washing machine the situation with Truma airconditioning and three 90 litre water tanks and a fold out picnic and checker plate exterior finishes. Finally there’s central heating running on gas or electric. table. In Eric’s case, the table comes with a the top of the range Venetian which is where Eric The rear ensuite with shower, toilet, basin and handy map of Australia to plan the next day’s comes in, with a list of about 25 more upgrades. washing machine is compact, although there’s adventure or mark off destinations as you go. The upside of this is you can get a very good space where you need it including in the The chassis is about as tough as large van with the Rio standard inclusions for shower and storage spaces. Storage overall is they come, six inch steel Austrail. The about $85,000, or with everything that opens a great feature of this van, from the roomy lined warranty is 12 months and it’s worth and shuts in the Venetian (including the slide- front boot outside through to the good deep noting there are not nasty “exclusions” out bedroom) for just under $120,000. wardrobe hanging spaces in the bedroom. for travelling on unsealed roads. Stepping inside, the first thing that grabs your The slide out in the bedroom easily takes Sadly Eric Rolfe passed away last attention is the well laid out kitchen area with the bedhead out 600mm at the push of a February and he never did get the chance plenty of bench and storage space. The bench button. It makes it seem much more spacious to try out the caravan he helped build. In tops are the same height you’d normally have and easy to get around. This type of design, his final days he did however make it out to at home, which adds to the sense of feeling with an east/west configured slide out queen take a look at the Eric and he was suitably right “at home”. The cabinetry is very well put bed is increasingly popular with buyers impressed. So far caravan buyers have together, there’s no chipboard or MDF here. in this range and it’s easy to see why. been too – at the time of writing there was a There are plenty of big drawers with metal Two flat screen TVs come as standard, one wait of several months for new orders. runners and thick bases, built to last for years. in the living area, one in the bedroom and Kitchen equipment includes a fan forced oven, there’s a power outlet and aerial point outside microwave with grill and a top range 186 litre if you want to relax under the awning. Further details: camdencaravan.com.au
28 timetoroam.com.au Mag ad_131113.indd 4 7/03/14 9:25 AM tried + tested | motorhome review
TRIED + TESTED
Review by Richard Robertson of iMotorhome.com.au Tried and Tested Wirraway Eurostyle 260 SL 4X4 RRP $235,000 (on road, Vic)
The Vehicle Pros For its standard motorhomes Wirraway normally supplies the Sprinter 516 CDI, • Quality with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel producing Luxury • Sprinter 4X4 chassis 120 kW and 360 Nm. However, for a • Very generous four-wheel drive a little more grunt helps, external bin capacity so the more powerful 519 CDI model is preferred. It’s a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel • Sophisticated water hose/pump system producing 140 kW and 440 Nm that drives Explorer through a 5-speed automatic transmission • Stylish, light and (2WD Sprinter auto are 7-speed). bright interior In terms of motorhome construction, Wirraway’s 4X4 takes off-road • Well proportioned a box-section RHS aluminium frame comfort to the extreme interior supports a 12 mm plywood floor. Above • Kitchen drawer that, composite styrofoam/fibreglass Four-wheel drive motorhomes are thin on the ground. There are some good space vacuum sealed panels form up the wall reasons for that; mostly to do with either practicality or cost. Until a few years structure, which includes Seitz double- ago, those wanting to travel off-road either had the choice of something glazed hopper windows and a Dometic built on a Toyota Hilux 4X4 or Isuzu truck 4X4 (normally used in bushfire Cons door with a fixed window. Two-pack epoxy tankers) or something very expensive like a MAN 4X4 truck chassis. Iveco paint is used on the entire body structure for has changed the game somewhat with its compact Daily 4X4, currently only • Ground clearance increased durability as well as good looks. used by specialist manufacturers, but it was Mercedes Benz that made the off-road External storage is definitely a feature most difference, with its 4X4 Sprinter in both van and cab-chassis form. • Smallish water of Wirraway motorhomes! Instead of Mildura-based Wirraway Motorhomes builds on just about all the capacity conventional lockers, most are drawers current range on Sprinter cab-chassis, so when a customer came – with some having a dust sealing lid – along looking for 4X4 motorhome it wasn't a difficult request to meet. and all are operated by remote control!
30 timetoroam.com.au tried + tested | motorhome review and lounge/dining up the front. Generally speaking, the layout has been fairly evenly proportioned; that is no one area (like the front lounge) has been compromised too much because of, say, a large bathroom. Tasmanian Myrtle timber or laminate is used for the all interior cabinetry and the end result is very pleasing to the eye. A feature of note are the large handles on all the cupboard doors and overhead lockers. Often, catches are quite small and not easy for those with arthritic fingers. Large roof hatches, generous window space and a glossy white ceiling all contribute to a light, bright interior. During the evening, well situated LED ceiling and under-locker lights do the same.
Electrics In this layout most electrical controls, including the radio/CD player, are either above the doorway or down the panel beside the doorway: all very handy. Keeping the two 120 AH batteries charged are a 25 A smart charger, the vehicle alternator and in this case, optional solar panels. Controlling all those is a Sargent EC325 control panel. Electrical systems in any RV these days can be quite complex, so it’s helpful at least when the controls and switching are mostly in the same location.
Lounging Around Although the sideways lounges aren't particularly long, they will seat a person on each side quite comfortably. Of course, there are the swivelled cab seats as well, with all Particularly handy is the rear drawer 4X4 system delivered good traction. I gained seating nicely upholstered in leather. Fitting that's at a very user-friendly height. the impression that even proprietor Tonkin neatly in between the seats, the table is External drawers are certainly different was impressed with the vehicle's abilities. finished in exactly the same way as the bench to the usual set-up and an advantage is Sure the 4X4 Wirraway doesn’t have the tops: that is, with a timber edged laminate. minimal bending over, including the gas ground clearance, arrival/departure/ramp- Above the cab seats it's all quite open cylinder bin (with 3 x 4.5 kg cylinders) and over angles or toughness of a Land Cruiser, with a handy shelf across the front and the storage for the 2 KVA generator. On but it gives extra traction when needed and small cupboards on either side. Overhead the kerb side it also means a convenient provides peace-of-mind when venturing onto lockers are fitted on both sides above table top for the adjoining slide-out BBQ. gravel roads and in to bush campsites. the lounges. TV viewing is fairly easily Another Wirraway feature is the automatic accomplished because the front TV (there hose rewinder that has enough water Living Inside are two) is mounted above the fridge on the rear side of the entry door, and in this pressure delivery to allow for washing the Wirraway has relatively few layouts in its range, position can be seen from all the seats. motorhome or pumping water from another but there's nothing wrong with that. Far better source, like a river, without contaminating in my opinion to keep refining a layout that Time To Eat your potable supply. Very clever! already works well, rather than the scatter gun approach some manufacturers seem to use! One thing is for sure: In the kitchen there's no On The Road In this case the 4X4 has the Eurostyle 260 shortage of drawers – eight to be precise! All The 519 CDI Sprinter powers along and it’s layout. It consists of an island bed in the are fitted into the L-shaped bench, with the difficult to pick any difference to the more rear with a split bathroom separating the stainless steel sink/drainer sitting at right angles usual two-wheel drive, even in ride quality. bedroom from the front living area. Both cab to the wall and the cooktop/grill/oven in the more Where the 4X4 did count was on some nice seats swivel and work in well with sideways- conventional position against the wall. There's red-dirt tracks that Rob Tonkin, owner of facing lounges on either side and table in the even a bit of bench space squeezed in between Wirraway, managed to find. That was where middle. That leaves the central area for the the two. It's not immediately obvious, but fitted the bigger V6 turbo-diesel really counted. It entry door, plus the L-shaped kitchen bench into the corner of the kitchen bench is a top delivered enough power so the motorhome on the driver’s side. Like many a layout, the loading washing machine. It might seem a funny could easily climb the hilly tracks, while the result is bedroom/bathroom area in the rear > continued on page 32
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 31 tried + tested | motorhome review EUROSTYLE 260 4X4
Chassis Mercedes Benz 519 CDI Engine 3.0 L V6 turbo-diesel Power 140 kW @ 3800 rpm Torque 440 Nm @ 1400-2400 rpm Gearbox 5 speed auto
Suspension and brakes Brakes ABS disc Tare weight 4280 kg GVM 5250 kg Towing capacity 2000 kg Licence Light Rigid (LR) Approved Seating 2
Body External length 7.90 m (26 ft) External width 2.25 m (7 ft 5 in) External height 3.15 m (10 ft 4 in) Internal height 2.00 m (6 ft 6 in) Rear bed size 1.88 m x 1.52 m (6 ft 2 in x 5 ft)
Kitchen Cooktop Dometic 4 burner, grill & oven Fridge Dometic RM4605 186 L Microwave Oven Sharp Carousel
Internal accessories/appliances Lighting 12 V LED place to locate it, but frequently that corner space After Hours Batteries 2 x 120 AH is hard to use effectively, so it's not a bad location Sitting in all its splendour in the rear is an Solar panels 1 x 135 W at all. Just move the wine bottles and glasses first! island bed. It's surrounded on three sides by Air conditioner Air Command Ibis Fitted in between the kitchen bench and adjoining good sized windows and comes with a well Heater Optional shower cubicle is a full height slide-out pantry crafted bed head, side cabinets, wardrobes Toilet Thetford cassette – one with decent shelves so that food supplies Shower Separate cubicle and overhead lockers. The wardrobes are the don't bounce out when travelling on rough roads. hanging variety, leaving enough space for a Across the aisle the 186 L 3-way fridge is topped bedside shelf, complete with power point. by a microwave oven, which is a fair height off the Water and gas capacity floor, plus the aforementioned flat screened TV. What I Think Hot water heater Truma 14 L I don't think it is being disrespectful to Wirraway Water tank 118 L Keeping Clean to suggest it might be better to classify this Grey tank 52 L Forming up the split bathroom is a Euro-style motorhome as an all-wheel drive unit rather Gas cylinders 3 x 4.5 kg (partly rounded) shower cubicle on the driver’s than a four-wheel drive. After all, it’s size and side and a toilet cubicle directly opposite. The ground clearance are going to restrict its abilities latter having not only a cassette toilet, but also a somewhat. But at the same time, having traction shaving cabinet and vanity cabinet with pedestal on all four wheels improves the vehicle’s abilities style wash basin. Supplying the ventilation are a Contact considerably, especially in the likes of mud or snow. small window and a fan hatch in the ceiling. Handy (03) 5023 0230 Apart from that the 4X4 EuroStyle 260 comes additions are towel rails on both sides. The toilet www.wirraway.com.au with all the features we have come to expect from cubicle door can be used to close off the bathroom/ Wirraway. It provides luxury travel with added ability bedroom area from the front of the motorhome. and would be a very civilised way to go see even more of Australia than is usually possible.
32 timetoroam.com.au Inspiring adventures for fifty years. Living in Motion
Don’t let your budget sacrifice your style The Altea 552UP has it all, and for a whole lot less!
Entertain and tow in comfort with the new Altea 552UP. With a single axel, front club lounge, and fixed island bed all under 21ft, the new Altea 552UP really has been designed for brighter and lighter living. New interior design and furniture New Smart kitchen with large 190L fridge Tare: 1370kg, ATM: 1700kgs AL-KO chassis & extra thick walls THE 552 UP IS ONLY Custom designed and built for Super lightweight and suitable for a large * Australian conditions range of tow vehicles $50,740! Available at these participating Adria Dealers
All Boats and Caravans Fraser RV Toowoomba 4 Hocking Rd, Kingsley WA 6026 471 Boundary Rd, Toowoomba QLD (08) 9309 4200 4350. (07) 4633 7611
Apollo RV Sales Melbourne & Melbourne & European R.V’s Brisbane Superstore, 698 Nudgee Road, European 2 Klauer St, Seaford VIC 3199 Northgate, QLD 4013. (07) 3265 9260 R.V’s (03) 9786 8833
Australian Motor Homes Motosport RV 31 Pacific Hwy, Bennetts Green, NSW 3471 Pacific Hwy, Slacks Creek QLD 2290. (02) 4948 0433 4127. (07) 3297 8200
Camperagent RV Centre www.AdriaAustralia.com 750 Port Wakefield Road, Parafield Price only applicable to Altea 552UP. State registration fees, taxes, and optional add-ons may be extra. Gardens, SA 5107. (08) 8285 5000 Please contact your local Adria dealer for more information. tried + tested | camper review
TRIED + TESTED
Tried and Tested Pioneer Argyle SE Review by David Cook Warranty Five years RRP $35,995 CAMPER WITH STYLE AND SUBSTANCE Pioneer Argyle SE has good looks, focus is on hard-floor designs, with the Argyle Pros SE sitting at the budget end of the range. features and a five year warranty – • Quality of engineering Pioneer has stepped outside the standard versions of camper design with a stylish • Snappy modern all for a competitive price redesign that makes the most of space and styling gives the trailer a classy modern look. The finish Rear-fold camper trailers are a great • Lots of storage is in a neat Periwinkle Grey with black and silver solution for those who like to travel a lot options inserts. The camper is constructed using a mix and not spend too long in one location. • Five-year warranty of welding and Sikaflex bonded and pop riveted Pull in somewhere for an overnight stop and you • Light Tare weight panels, with Rhinocoating in high wear areas. can be set up in five minutes in a camp that has • Big payload capacity The sturdy chassis rides on a Grafta you off the ground and clear of creepy crawlies. independent trailing arm suspension with Pioneer is a brand that evolved in WA and is twin shocks and replaceable stub axles. now produced in Melbourne. With a staff of 75 Cons The wheels are five or six-stud black including a couple of in-house designers, they’re Sunraysias with G/T Adventuro all-terrain one of the bigger local manufacturers, even • Would like fridge rubber and brakes are 10in Al-Ko hydraulic supplying the Defence Department. Over time slide option override, with electric brakes as an option. the company has earned a good reputation for • Awning must be making a quality product that does the job. Their removed at pack-up > continuead on page 36
34 timetoroam.com.au tried + tested | camper review PIONEER ARGYLE SE
Chassis Drawbar and chassis: 100 X 50 X 3mm hot dip galvanised Dimensions: 4520mm long, 1750mm wide Tare 820kg, ATM 1500kg Wheels: 15 X 7in 5- or 6-stud Sunraysia rims with GT Adventuro all-terrain tyres Trigg polyblock hitch
Suspension and brakes Grafta independent trailing arm with coil springs Dual Ridepro 4WD shock absorbers 10in hydraulic override drums
Body 1.2mm zinc anneal steel and 2mm aluminium Fold-over top with fibreglass honeycomb/steel sandwich 1 X 9kg gas bottle The Argyle has plenty of storage options, with a large front storage box, suitable for a fridge, generator, porta-potti or similar items, with Kitchen a pair of 70L compartments for Stainless steel slide-out wet storage underneath. At the 2-burner Smev gas cooker front is a box with perforated floor Cutlery drawer suitable for carrying up to three Stainless steel sink jerry cans, firewood, wet canvas Food preparation bench or other dirty items. There are two other tubs, one containing a single 9kg gas bottle and hand pump. Behind the front boxes is a Water storage slide-out stainless steel kitchen. 60L stainless steel tank It’s a bit smaller than some today but perfectly adequate with a slide-out preparation shelf, two- burner stove, stainless steel sink, Electrical cutlery drawer and a worklight 1 X 110Ah AGM battery on the flip-up access door. 10A VSR mains charger Anderson plug at hitch The standard electrical fit out includes a single 110Ah AGM deep cycle battery, a 10-amp Narva mains charger and an optional Tent regulated solar panel. There’s also 14.9oz roof and 10.9oz a 240V mains outlet on the side. walls Dynaproof canvas Water capacity is a basic 60L 4500 X 1600mm tent area stainless steel tank as standard but Double bed foam mattress 2000 X 4900mm main awning there is the option of a 150L tank. The vinyl-covered floor area is 1.6 X 2m so there’s room for kids’ bunks if needed. The canvas is
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 35 tried + tested | camper review 14.9oz and 10.9oz Dynaproof Australian material, with windows all around. These are finished with midge-proof screens internal awnings and clears. The roofline continues out over the front box to shelter any fridge and the front of the trailer. The awning is a roomy 2 x 4.9m. Other options include a separate sleep area and an ensuite which simply zip on. The bed is a double foam mattress with under-bed storage area. This can be accessed internally by lifting the bed, or through the tailgate hatch on the roadside. With a Tare of 820kg it is pretty light for what the Argyle SE offers and with an ATM of 1600kg there’s heaps of load capacity.
YOU MIGHT ALSO CONSIDER Summary Altitude Ultimate Hard Floor The Pioneer Argyle is a The Altitude Ultimate Hard Floor is a well set-up rear fold hard floor camper, with classy and stylish hard Cruisemaster independent suspension, electric brakes, dual 120Ah AGM batteries, floor camper at a value 25-amp Projecta charger, large swing around gourmet stainless steel kitchen, for money price. It comes roomy storage box with slide-out pantry drawer and fridge slide, two 80L water with a good range of specs tanks, queen-sized mattress with under-bed drawer. It’s all-Australian canvas with including independent a large side awning, shower room and a diesel hot water and space heating system. suspension. You have Well priced at $39,990. the with peace of mind knowing its built of quality Australian made materials, Cub Spacematic Drover including the all- important Cub is one of Australia’s oldest manufacturers and builds a wide range of rear-fold canvas. Finally, it’s backed campers, all with a sturdy, no-nonsense finish and most with a huge amount of by a sizeable company internal room. All Cub campers feature a winch opening system. The Spacematic that will be around to Drover has a strong 6in drawbar, independent suspension, electric brakes, 127L honour the very generous of water, 2 x 4kg gas bottles, three-burner stove with grill, choice of internal or five-year warranty. external kitchen, two-way internal fridge, pantry drawer, roll-up side walls. That’s a lot for $38,990.
36 timetoroam.com.au www.bluetonguecampers.com.au
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 37 feature | reno rescue
After
My Reno Rescue: Before Bessie has a facelift A battered 1970s Viscount When did you first meet Bessie? What do you know of its history? One weekend some time ago I received a For the last 43 years, nothing. For the most get’s a radical 21st century text message, it was from my boss. “I’ve recent few Bessie had belonged makeover just bought myself another Viscount”. to a family in Tasmania and they gave Despite owning a successful caravan her the name. They had many wild outback Hugh and Belinda Williams are the owners business with so many new vans to trips in Tasmania, which would mostly see of Lifestyle Caravans at Ulverstone choose from, Hugh and Belinda are just them bouncing Bessie in northern Tasmania and they love as happy spending their time in an old through tracks not designed for caravans, especially old Viscounts. Viscount. It had been a couple years since caravans. Prior to that, Bessie belonged When Hugh acquired a well- their last Viscount and from the sounds to a family who travelled all over Australia travelled 1973 Ambassador earlier in of things, they’d found their next one. going to different baseball tournaments. the year he gave it to his workshop This 1973 Viscount Ambassador had They then moved to Tassie and sold Bessie. team to renovate over winter. been sitting in a neighbour’s yard for Workshop Manager SHEM some time and one day when a For Sale What were the biggest DUTSON tells how the facelift turned sign popped up, Hugh drove in, sealed challenges in restoration? into a more radical rebuild. the deal and towed Bessie away. I’m not sure if you can consider this a restoration, more of a complete rebuild. What condition was it in? The biggest challenge was knowing It seemed quite good initially, apart where to stop. Hugh said to me to do from some cosmetic issues. The her up as a job on the side over winter, original layout saw four bunks in the but he didn’t give me a budget. rear, which had at some stage been I gave it to the boys in the workshop changed to an east west double. Apart and told them to strip it until I said stop. from that it was original and ugly!
38 timetoroam.com.au feature | reno rescue
Bessie received a new A-frame, as well as complete new independent suspension. The original chassis was straightened and strengthened. The floor and wheel arches were also replaced. From there we re-lined the original roof and walls, using the same technique the majority of Australian manufacturers use when building new vans. From this stage we made all new cupboards, cabinets, kitchen, bed and seats. Bessie was starting to look like a new van in the shape of an old van.
Any tips for others? I am not going to suggest that anyone needs to go to this much effort, but replacing existing springs, axles, brakes and the coupling should be the priority. Then you can worry about the cosmetic issues. Doing this will keep you safe on the road, which is by far the most important. This van has done its job for 43 years now and will continue doing its job in the Australian outdoors for another 43 years.
Tell us what you use it for now? Bessie will continue to be a weekend warrior with some adventurous trips planned for the future. Expect many more memories to come.
Share your renovation rescue [email protected]
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 39 business and products
Australia’s BEST Gold Coast plumber Colin Hopgood’s quest to build the best caravan and RV The perfect coupling One tool to rule them all water filter began way back in the 1970s. Trojan has announced a new range of For almost 130 years Victorinox has been “I installed a normal household water filter trailer couplings designed to sit lower on producing the Swiss Army Knife. Yet even after in a caravan and it failed, so I wanted to find the A-frame, allowing easier clearance all this time, they continue to surprise with just out why and how it could be made better.” and reducing potential damage. how useful a pocket-sized knife can be. Colin isn't a salesman, he tells it like it The new Streamline 2-Tonne Non Braked Just when you think you’ve opened is. Over the years he’s found people were coupling range includes the Streamline Standard all accessories, you find another, and misinformed about what filter will suit their Coupling for conventional two-hole mountings, another. It’s like one of those television travelling needs. “You can’t just put hose and the Streamline Multi Fit Coupling that infomercials, “But wait, there’s more”. connections and a sticker on a domestic fits both two and three-hole mountings. In total there are 33 tools, from a can filter and call it an RV filter,” he says. Designed for strength and durability, both opener to screwdrivers and a chisel. To help educate the RV community on the couplings are fully static and fatigue tested The Victorinox Swisschamp is complications and hazards of some water to AS4177-3 regulations, and come with a available in black, red, and walnut. treatment processes in the market, Colin 12-month warranty. The coupling system is ‘tells it how it is’ in his Water On The Road available in zinc, galvanized, or painted finishes. RRP: $199 | victorinox.com booklet – free to download from his website. Available at all good trailer and boating stores. bestwaterfilters.com.au | 1800 240 822 RRP: From $110.00 RRP: From $32.50 A true cultural experience Welcome to Country is a new app which reveals the stories of indigenous people as you pass through their traditional lands. Developer and Ngarluma (WA) man Tyson Mowarin (pictured below) says the app was created to help travellers understand the history and traditions of the Aboriginal people. As you cross the border into tribal territory, the app sends users a helpful alert. “I think it’s important to acknowledge people, and once you acknowledge them that's where New generator on the block mutual respect comes from,” he says. Quality mats get “A lot of indigenous groups are looking to designer makeover Briggs & Stratton, one of the world’s leading share their stories, and the app is a simple producers of air-cooled petrol engines way to do this. It's about helping people Paul Donovan and the team from Affordable and generators have released a new recognise different cultures,” says Tyson. Mats have released a new line of 100% PowerSmart™ Series of inverter generators The Welcome to Country app is recycled poly mats, guaranteed to take your - ideal for caravanners and campers. available for free on iPhone with plans campsite from drab to fab in no time. The P2000 PowerSmart Series features to launch an android version. Inspired by the art of Aboriginal Australians two 240-volt outlets with weather protection and nations of the South Pacific, the new range and a 12-volt DC accessory socket. For of indoor and outdoor culture mats include the extra peace of mind there’s an overload red and grey “Meeting Place”, bronze and cream alarm, circuit breaker and low oil alert. Samoa “Lalolagi” mat, and “Waterdreaming”. Computer controlled technology supplies Affordable Mats are lightweight, quick smooth, steady power and adjusts engine drying, and easy to clean. They have speed accordingly to suit your power needs strong stitching, strong eyelets, and are and save fuel. The P2000 comes with a bound on all sides. All come with an two year limited warranty and national oversize carry bag for easy transport. network of parts and service agents. RRP: $55 - $254 | affordablecamping.com.au RRP: $1,199 | briggsandstratton.com.au
40 timetoroam.com.au business and products Australia’s Top 5 Holiday Bike Buying Guide cycling holiday destinations What kind of bike suits you?
Alpine High Country - VIC 1 It’s a region of rolling hills, cool climate vineyards, picturesque farmland and magnificent views. Home to several sealed Beachfront and café cruising and flat cycling trails, such as the Bright to Porepunkah trail (10km return), There Easy to ride, stylish and with a comfortable upright riding position are also medium distance rides such as designed for cruising. Unlike their truly Vintage namesakes, these Bright to Harrietville (50km return). beauties are now built with alloy parts. Reid Ladies Vintage $249.99, Reid Roadster $299.99
Capital Country - ACT 2 Cycle around Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin stopping at the many cafes and museums along its shores. You can go further afield by visiting The Poacher’s A bit of everything Way, a winding trail of restaurants, wineries and galleries. If you’re the rider who wants a bike to do it all, a hybrid is for you. Versatile with a strong frame and wider tyres to suit varied terrain, upright position and a cushioned saddle for comfort and all the extras including mudguards and pannier racks. Reid City 1: $349.99 Hobart - TAS 3 Historic buildings, a thriving café scene, and beautiful waterfront are just a few great reasons to visit Hobart. With scenic waterways, rugged cycling trails and gourmet experiences galore, it’s a place worth taking a little time to explore. Off road all the way If your holiday takes you near trails or dirt paths, then a Mountain Bike will make all the difference. Strong frame and suspension fork to handle the bumps plus big 29 inch Beechworth - VIC wheels to roll over obstacles. Reid Xenon: $549.99 4 Our Leyland’s travel feature in this issue lists lots of attractions worth seeing. The Beechworth Rail Trail is popular with cyclists of all ages and fitness levels.
Out of sight And for those who want a versatile bike that doesn’t take up much Hunter Valley - NSW room when not in use, then you should look at a new folding bike. The Metro features a lightweight alloy frame, 7-speed 5 What better way to get around the Shimano gearing, and lighter, tougher wheels. Metro $449.99 cellar doors than by bike? The rolling hills are an easy ride using pedal power. If you end up buying cases of SPECIAL OFFER wine, they can always be shipped! 10% Discount for ROAM Readers. Not to be used with any other offer. Online or in stores. Use keyword: ROAM. Offer ends 31/12/15. Visit reidcycles.com.au for more info
Image credits: 1) Tourism Victoria, 2) Visit Canberra, 3) Tourism Tasmania 4) Tourism Victoria 5) Destination NSW Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 41 leyland's australia | beechworth
M31
Beechworth Melbourne
reason? The discovery of vast amounts of gold. It was simply laying in the rivers waiting Beechworth to be scooped up. A local shepherd named Howell first found it, triggering a gold rush of major significance. Within two years, more Where the streams than 100,000 ounces had been recovered and a tent city had sprung up that stretched up the centre of the valley; a weird pot- holed landscape peppered with calico. glistened with gold The rip-roaring gold rush and the makeshift dwellings had no official structure and no law Having spent most of the last enforcement until the government surveyed the town and set out the formal street design that 45 years travelling about this greets today's visitors. Beechworth became great country of ours, my wife the administrative centre of North East Victoria and soon had a population of 30,000. Laraine and I have learned one Today a walk through the streets of the undeniable truth. No matter town centre presents a parade of fabulous old stone buildings. Many are public buildings where we go, it's always constructed from local granite and intended Leyland's Australia interesting! to be in keeping with the high status of the MAL AND LARAINE bustling gold town of 160 years ago. The gold rush is over but the evidence of its For our first foray forTime To Roam magazine, existence is tangible. Most of the great old we studied a map of Victoria and selected buildings are perfectly preserved and visited a town we had never been to before; by thousands every year. The streetscapes Beechworth in the north east of the state. of Beechworth have changed little over the This quiet piece of wild bush was years. It has the look and feel of the past; transformed in 1852 into a bustling settlement as if time has not affected the town. It has swarming with more than 8,000 people. The no fast food chain stores but reeks with
42 timetoroam.com.au leyland's australia | beechworth nostalgia for a time when life was simpler. The shop owners trade out of old, but well- The monthly “Make it, Bake it and Grow it” market stocked buildings, providing products and is held in the grounds of the Anglican Church service reminiscent of a more laid-back time. This is why so many visitors come to have a relaxing weekend escape. They spend up big in the many top quality fashion shops, or indulge in 'high tea' at one of the cafes or restaurants. Caravaners and Motorhomers are a significant part of the influx of visitors that have recently re-discovered this quiet getaway. We checked into Lake Sambell Caravan Park for a waterfront powered site. We timed our visit to coincide with the annual Celtic festival when the present population of about 3,500 more than doubles over one weekend. After first soaking up the atmosphere of the magnificent old streets of the town centre we took off to investigate some of the immediate surroundings before the weekend festivities. First on our list was Woolshed Falls. A short walking trail, easily traversed by the elderly > continued on page 44
Baker, Peter Fartuszynski proudly displays his fresh produce at the markets
Above: Colourful stalls of all kinds dotted the park, offering all kinds of wares
Pipe band
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 43 leyland's australia | beechworth or wheelchair-bound, affords a great view of the spectacular cascades. Waters crash over several rugged outcrops of granite before plummeting into a deep plunge pool about sixty metres below a viewing platform. From here the workings of alluvial gold extraction are set along the banks of the picturesque Spring Creek where the original miners' settlement was located. Here during a second, much later wave of gold fever, more than 2000 ounces of gold were recovered between 1918 to 1920. Closer to town, but deliberately built away from the main settlement, is an extraordinary building made of massive granite blocks. It is surrounded with a thick, high stone wall designed to withstand a considerable explosion. The building is a storage vault for housing large quantities of black gunpowder. It was built to prevent any disasters as the old blasting powder used on the goldfields was highly volatile. If it did erupt, the strong building and fort-like wall were expected to avoid any fatalities. Such disasters were a common problem in many mining towns in the nineteenth century. Although it no longer has any such purpose, a visit is a real eye-opener into the risky business of the gold miner's life when fortunes could be dug out of the ground. Entry into the dark, tomb-like structure is by a special admission card procured from the visitor centre in town. An electronic sound and light presentation brings to Spinner, Rosemary English demonstrates her skills and sells life the reality of the day-to-day risks the home made woollen garments in the church grounds market > continued on page 46
It has no fast food chain stores but reeks with nostalgia for a time when life was simpler.
The solid stone courthouse is well preserved for a building more than 150 years old
44 timetoroam.com.au leyland's australia | beechworth Laraine examines the old powder magazine designed to withstand a gunpowder explosion
Lazy Harry entertains market goers with old time favourites See more of Beechworth in the Leyland's video at timetoroam.com.au
The But But Tree is a remarkable 400 years old
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 45 leyland's australia | beechworth
Fred Morris checks the quality of the wine at the Pennyweight winery
Beechworth Top Fi ve miners took in search of riches that could change their lives. At the other end of town is Pennyweight Winery; one of many in the area. A visit here is a great chance to relax in the tranquil Woolshed Falls 1 surrounds and taste the range of produce for sale. We also had Five minute drive from the centre a chance to visit the maturing cellars where a close eye is kept of town with easy access track on the progress of the fortified varieties. This is a fully organic and viewing platform. There’s a product that has built a formidable reputation for quality. good picnic site on Spring Creek If you prefer to slake your thirst with a soft drink, Beechworth has where several walking tracks start. its own home-grown product. It's in the old brewery building that has its own well of high quality artesian water. The impressive brick Guided Walking Tour 2 building houses a museum detailing the history of Murray Breweries. Takes about 75 minutes and The pressure of big factory beer production, lower freight costs and covers most of the town's the growing support for the temperance movement of the early 1920's, history. The quickest way to learn put the original brewery under so much stress that it came close to about the gold mining days. closing down. As one of the biggest employers in the town, the owners wanted to keep their loyal workers, so switched to cordial production. Gunpowder Magazine 3 It was a highly successful decision. Visitors can visit the museum Close to the town precinct, this well- built stone structure was designed to hold the volatile black powder to prevent an explosion. An interesting interactive presentation inside.
4 Historic Buildings Most official buildings such as the courthouse, lockup and gold assay office are built of granite. They house museums and historic memorabilia from the gold rush days.
5 Murray Breweries Cordial Factory Museum A great museum tracing the ups and downs of beer brewing and how it was saved from financial ruin by switching to cordials and soft drinks. Entry is free. Mal inspects the creek where an abundance of alluvial gold started the rush
46 timetoroam.com.au leyland's australia | beechworth tracing this history, sample some of their Irish dancers entertain the crowds in the merchandise and take a bottle or two home if street on Saturday at the Celtic Festival they want. We did, and the lemon-ginger beer was quickly consumed on the first night. Perhaps the best way to soak up the amazing gold history is to take a guided walking tour. The "Echoes of History", tour gives an insight into life during the heyday of the gold rush. It starts at the old courthouse, a magnificent granite stone structure that was the scene of many famous trials, including several involving Ned Kelly. Built in 1858, it remained in use until its closure in 1989. At the back of the courthouse is the police lockup that dates from 1867. It features two cells; one for male, and another for female prisoners held on remand before their court appearances. Our guide led us through the streets of Beechworth, highlighting hundreds of points of interest but not all were man-made. We paused to contemplate a massive 400-year-old But But tree that has an impressive girth and huge canopy. It was used by the early settlers as a meeting place. Notices of gold claims and public announcements were nailed to its huge burls, somewhat like a public notice board. Apparently an early blacksmith set Jim McNair plays the pipes at the annual Celtic Festival > continued on page 48
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Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 47 leyland's australia | beechworth The impressive cascades of Woolshed Falls have easy access
The old lockup held remand prisoners awaiting trial
up his shop here, shaping and resharpening the miner's tools. With solid granite to hack through, the tools dulled quickly providing the blacksmith with a thriving business. Walking through the historic streets and backstreets with an expert guide fires the Perhaps the imagination of life in rough, exciting and adventurous times. A time when thousands best way to of hopeful pioneering miners turned over soak up the every nook and cranny seeking gold that was so plentiful it was escorted to Ned Kelly’s name survives on a hotel bar amazing gold Melbourne every fortnight with average history is to loads of 14,000 ounces per coach. Unable to resist a good market, Laraine and stall holders offered everything from fairy floss to Celtic take a guided I fronted up to the Anglican Church grounds fighting swords. We managed to resist both. Thousands walking tour on Saturday morning and re-stocked our of visitors and local residents were out for the day motorhome larder with lots of fresh produce, enjoying the festive atmosphere. The bustling crowd was including some crusty loaves of bread. All kinds in great spirits. It turned out to be a perfect sunny day. of artisans were displaying their wares. The Several pipe bands set up on a carpet of lush colourful array of gazeboes were well stocked turf in front of a huge exposed outcrop of granite to with hand-knitted garments, jewellery, leather perform to the appreciative crowd. As the day moved work and all manner of homemade delights. on into late afternoon, the sounds of bagpipes and We watched Rosemary English spinning wool drums drifted through the treetops heralding the end into yarn on her traditional wooden spinning of another Celtic festival and a reminder that our time wheel whilst listening to the strains of old-time in Beechworth was almost over. We returned to our favourites played on a piano-accordion by Lazy motorhome ready to move on in the morning. Harry. It's not too much of a stretch of the mind to think that we had stepped back 100 years or more to a time when life's simple pleasures involved a day out with the family to stock up. Ask the Leylands We timed our visit to Beechworth to catch Where would you like to see Mal and Laraine the annual Celtic Festival. At Queen Victoria explore next? Send your travel suggestions to: Park at the northern end of town, packed [email protected] underneath a tall forest of trees, about 100
48 timetoroam.com.au on the roam | my top 5 Safely sharing the coast with birds KATH SOUTHWELL heads a team of 30 volunteers who help rescue birds and other wildlife along a 250km stretch of NSW’s Far North Coast.
BY CHRIS ASHTON
Summer is the time Australians flock If someone doesn't call us straight away, the to the coast in droves, yet it’s also the birds can get infected from hooks or lines.” crucial breeding season for many of Southwell encourages all recreational our most endangered sea birds. fishers to fish responsibly and Environmental scientist and self- wherever possible try to retrieve professed “bird nerd” Kath Southwell any line snagged on rocks. sees the damage humans can cause, Founded in 1992, ASR has rescued often without even realising it. thousands of sea and shore birds As General Manager of Ballina-based over the years, many injured by plastic Australian Seabird Rescue (ASR) her and fishing line entanglements. advice is if you have an unintended > continued on page 50 tangle with a seabird, get help fast. “While people may be embarrassed if they hook a bird while fishing, there’s no shame in it. Everyone understands that accidents can happen. “Some injuries can be quite horrific.
Discarded fishing line
Kath and Willow the pelican
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 49 on the roam | my top 5
Ballina lookout. Credit: Ballina Shire Council
5
Though best known for its work with malnourished and suffering from a severe pelicans, ASR's expertise has grown infection, Kath says Olivia had a 50/50 over the years to cover all manner of change of survival - but she’s a fighter. seabirds, shore birds, and even turtles. “Over time you learn the personalities of “The name is a little deceptive,” Kath the animals brought in,” she says. “Olivia has When it comes says. “We actually have a turtle hospital at seen countless other turtles come and go, to turtles, around our Ballina base, which allows us to treat and gets sad when she’s left on her own. It’s around 60 injured sea turtles every year. going to feel so good to finally release her.” 40 per cent of “When it comes to turtles, around 40 A big part of the ASR’s mission injuries we treat per cent of injuries we treat are the result is public education. are the result of swallowing plastic, and it’s an issue that “We have thousands of school kids and can be avoided with a little extra care. travellers taking part in our tours each year, of swallowing “The easiest way to avoid this is to simply and we also train wildlife rescuers how to plastic be responsible. If you see rubbish on the catch, rehabilitate and release birds.” beach, even if it’s not yours, take responsibility Many ASR volunteers joined after and pick it up. It’s not hard to do.” bringing in injured birds and turtles. Kath One of her current patients, a hawksbill says getting involved in a grassroots turtle named Olivia, has been at the not-for-profit organisation which relies hospital for the past 10 months. Found on the help of volunteer is a great way to give back to your community. Visit seabirdrescue.org to make a donation or become involved.
Beach 4WD Tip In summer time there are resident and migratory shorebirds feeding and nesting on beaches. When driving on the beach, the best thing is to drive on the wet sand and avoid dunes. Pied Oyster Catchers lay their eggs on the sand and when hatched the chicks like to sit in wheel ruts. If you’re driving through someone else’s wheel ruts, it's a good idea to keep an eye out for any little creatures that are moving. They can be hard to see, as they’re a sandy colour.
50 timetoroam.com.au Image: Tourism and Events Queensland on the roam | my top 5
1. Angourie Blue Pool - Yamba, NSW The Blue Pool has beautiful scenery for a walk, either along the coastal scrub or the actual beach beside the 4 pool, which is fresh water. It’s a former quarry that filled up when springs were accidentally disturbed. 2 1 3
Kath Southwell
Angourie. Image: Clarence Tourism
MY TOP FIVENambucca Heads. Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast 2. Flat Rock Beach - Ballina, NSW Flat Rock is a resting area for migratory shorebirds at high tide, and very close to where I live and work. I often go here to see the birds or just to take some time out from my job. Lighthouse Beach is also another standout.
3. Nambucca Heads, NSW I have only been to Nambucca for a few short holidays but each time I‘ve been I fall in love with this beautiful little town a little bit more. Great beaches for body boarding and the Lighthouse Beach Nambucca River mouth and tidal flats are full of bird life. Image: Ballina Shire Council
4. Horseshoe Bay - Bowen, QLD I spent a few years living in Bowen and working at the Horseshoe Bay Resort. They have camping spots with million dollar views of Grays Bay, and its here where I saw my first Green Sea Turtle in the wild over 20 years ago.
5. Broome Bird Observatory, WA I spent 14 months as a rescue volunteer here and there are over 100,000 shorebirds in summer. Even in the winter there are significant numbers of migratory shorebirds to watch on the mudflats of Roebuck Bay.
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 51 travel | holiday haven
Modern cabins at Lake Conjola Lobster Jacks Beach, Ulladulla
About Holiday Haven Tourist Parks OUR EAST COAST With 12 beautiful locations along the NSW South Coast, Holiday Haven Tourist Parks have a getaway to suit your individual needs. All parks are on water, from white sand HOLIDAY JEWELS beaches to serene lakes and rivers. A big plus for families, Holiday Haven doesn’t Located just over 2 hours south of It is home to more than charge peak rates during school holidays. Sydney, the NSW South Coast has long 100 glistening beaches, been the destination of choice for Sydneysiders, Bendalong Point Holiday Park 49 charming villages and and its time the rest of the country caught on. Set amongst the tall eucalypts of Red Point Active travellers can spend their days kayaking Headland, this park is all about peace towns, and some of the and stand-up paddle boarding in crystal clear and tranquillity. Ideal for families, the park finest seafood restaurants waters, trekking through dense national parks, boasts shady cabins with filtered water or surfing at remote beaches with nothing in New South Wales. views, waterfront van sites, and unpowered but the sound of the waves to distract you. campsites, plus an easy access cabin. If you’re after something more relaxed, you’ll find countless vineyards and cellar doors, local Burrill Lake Holiday Park produce trails, and historic villages with trendy Absolute lake frontage, direct beach cafes and designer stores. There’s much to see access and views across Burrill Lake to and do, even during the cooler winter months. Pigeon House Mountain are just start here. The park has a jumping castle and outdoor cinema on weekends, plus a free activities program during the holidays.
Culburra Beach Holiday Park Formerly Crookhaven Heads, this gorgeous park is at the mouth of the Crookhaven and Shoalhaven Rivers. It has a great range of activities for kids, and offers easy access to one of the region’s finest fishing areas.
52 timetoroam.com.au Fishing on the Crookhaven River travel | holiday haven
• Cook• Wollongong island
• Kiama Kangaroo Valley Shoalhaven Heads
Culburra Beach
Currarong Huskisson White Sands Beachside Huskisson Beach Swan Lake Bendalong Point Culburra Beach Holiday Park Lake Conjola Ulladulla Headland Ensuite site at Shoalhaven Heads Entrance
Burrill Lake Lake Tabourie
• Batemans Bay
White Sands Holiday Park
Currarong Beachside Holiday Park Set on the northern edge of the Jervis Bay Marine Park, this great value getaway has roomy van and Lake Conjola in the 80s tent sites, a tennis court, playground and water park, plus a camp kitchen and BBQs. It’s just a short Lake Conjola Holiday Park Swan Lake Holiday Park walk to the beach, bowlo and Currarong Creek. A gem on the South Coast, Lake Conjola Whether you want a relaxed weekender has the winning trifecta of beach, lake or adrenalin charged escape, this park’s Huskisson Beach Holiday Park and bushland access. It offers a range of beach, lake and bushland location has you The blinding white sands of this park’s comfortable cabins and tourist sites, plus a covered. Features include self-contained namesake beach need no introduction. With half tennis court, cricket pitch, jumping pillow cabins, spa cabins and powered sites, as self-contained holiday cabins, powered sites, and playground to keep all ages active. well as a recreation zone for the kids. and shady campgrounds, plus a swimming pool, playground and tennis court, you Lake Tabourie Holiday Park Ulladulla Headland Holiday Park couldn’t ask for a better holiday spot. Perfectly framed between the lake, beach Set up camp at this award-winning park and state forest, this peaceful escape and enjoy views across Ulladulla Harbour. Huskisson White Sands Holiday Park boasts beachfront cabins and powered A family favourite, it has furnished cabins, It’s been called heaven on earth many times, and sites with sweeping views to Crampton ensuite sites, and more. The park has direct we think the praise for Huskisson White Sands is Island. During winter you may even be access to Lobster Jack’s Beach, great for pretty apt. This absolute beachfront park, home lucky enough to spot migrating whales. swimming and rock pool exploration. to self-contained cabins, powered campgrounds, and drive-thru ensuite sites, really is paradise. Shoalhaven Heads Holiday Park More info: holidayhaven.com.au Bordered by Seven Mile Beach and Kangaroo Valley Holiday Park Shoalhaven River, this sunny holiday park Set between the Barrengarry and Cambewarra has new and refurbished cabins, ensuite van Mountains, this park is pretty as a picture. A rustic sites, and family accommodation. There’s bushland escape, the park offers a range of also an outdoor cinema, heated pool, mini cabins, powered and unpowered sites, and easy golf course, half tennis court and more. river access for swimming, fishing and kayaking. SHOALHAVEN SOUTH COAST NSW Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 53 on the roam | flavours
Cupitt's Winery Milton Cupitt's Winery Milton
Shoalhaven The kitchen garden, St Isidore The perfect gourmet getaway The rolling hills and sandy beaches of the Shoalhaven have Food options been drawing tourists for decades, but it’s the increasingly St Isidore 89 Croobyar Road, Milton sophisticated gourmet scene that people are talking about. 02 4455 7261 stisidore.com.au Just an hour and a half drive south down as quirky craft beers. Enjoy a long lunch with the Princes Highway from Sydney, the area panoramic views across the vineyard to Burrill Lake Cupitt’s Winery has an eclectic mix of bars, restaurants and the Budawang Ranges. The menu follows & Restaurant and cafes, along with some of NSW’s the philosophies of the Slow Food Movement, 58 Washburton Road, most picturesque picnic spots. believing dining should be a source of pleasure. Ulladulla Fresh red snapper, blue-eyed trevalla, A short drive inland brings you to Kangaroo Valley 02 4455 7888 yellow fin tuna, lobsters and Pambula Olives, producing a range of products from olives to cupitt.com.au oysters are just a few of the must-try ocean tapenades, olive oils to dukkah. Flavours of the Valley delicacies from the NSW South Coast. Cooking School at nearby WILDWOOD Estate is a Wharf Rd Beyond the seafood, the Shoalhaven great place to pick up new skills and learn the benefits 10 Wharf Road, Nowra also boasts wonderful vineyards, olive of using locally sourced and seasonal produce. 02 4422 6651 groves, berry farms and some bakeries and For a gourmet treat, start with breakfast at 5 wharfrd.com.au pie shops that are way too tempting. Little Pigs, a cosy cafe overlooking Currambene 5 Little Pigs Cupitt’s Winery & Restaurant is the place Creek at Huskisson, then head to the St Isidore Shop 4-5, to go for award-winning wines as well for lunch. This award-winning restaurant has 64-66 Owen Street, fantastic views and its own lush kitchen garden. Huskisson It has been ranked by Gourmet Traveller as one 02 4441 7056 of the top ten regional restaurants in NSW. facebook.com/5LittlePigs The Shoalhaven’s major regional centre Nowra boasts Wharf Rd restaurant which will catch you SOUTH on Albany hook, line and sinker with sensational service and 3/65 Queen Street, Berry seafood. The menu includes pan fried Kingfish 02 4464 2005 and a tiradito of snapper. A short drive north to the southonalbany.com.au historic town of Berry there’s a wide selection of The Silos Restaurant cafes and dining options. SOUTH on Albany and B640 Princes Hwy, Berry The Silos Restaurant are among the best known. 02 4448 6160 To pick up some of the region’s fantastic local silos.com.au produce, visit Shoalhaven Heads Seafood & Produce Fair held every Saturday, or head to the Gaia Farmer’s Tempura Oysters - Rick Stein at Bannisters Market in Ulladulla, every Thursday from 2-5pm.
54 timetoroam.com.au on the roam | flavours
The kitchen garden, St Isidore Salad of Prawns, Kingfish, Avocado, Corn, Lime & Special Salt
Recipe by Chef Alex Delly, St Isidore Restaurant – Milton stisidore.com.au Serves 6
Salad Method • 800g cooked tiger prawns, • Using the back of a spoon, peeled and deveined smear bottom of a serving • 200g kingfish fillet, plate with crème fraiche. cut for sashimi (about Arrange avocado over the 3mm thick, on angle) top, followed by prawns, • 100g crème fraiche kingfish slices and corn. (or sour cream) • Sprinkle with chilli, spring • 2 avocados, sliced onions and coriander. • 2 ears of corn, grilled on • Sprinkle with special salt and BBQ then cut off the cob serve with a lime wedge. • 3 spring onions, sliced thinly • Perfect with a Pinot Gris • 1 green chilli, sliced thinly or German Riesling. • coriander for garnish • 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special salt • 1 tsp cumin • 1 tsp coriander seeds • ½ tsp black pepper • 1/3 tsp smoked paprika • 4 tbsp salt flakes • Blend in a mortar and pestle or a blender until fine. Then add • Zest of ½ lime • 2 tbsp sesame seeds Chef Alex Delly
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 55 on the roam | celebrity camper
Celebrity Camper NORMIE ROWE Back in the 1960s he was a pop star as big as they come. Normie grew up in suburban Melbourne, with his parent Connie and Albie, brother Graeme With hits like Que Sera Sera and Shakin All Over, Normie and sister Lois. While they didn’t have much money, they did enjoy camping holidays, Rowe ruled the Top 40 charts until he was conscripted to even if the transport method was unusual. go to Vietnam in 1968 and his singing career went on hold. Where did you go for camping holidays when you were young? After serving with distinction in Vietnam, Normie I didn't realise we weren’t very rich until later left the army four years later and began a on in my life, because all the kids in my area of new phase of his life as an entertainer. Melbourne were pretty much in the same boat. In the decades since he’s never been far from A lot of the people in our street, their fathers the spotlight, appearing on TV in both variety were truck drivers and when it came time for shows and acting roles. Rowe also regularly holidays all us kids would pile onto the back tours the country on the national club circuit; of a tray truck – there were no sides on the those 1960s hits still firm favourites with the truck. Our parents would climb into the front crowds. The past year has been especially seat and off we’d drive down to the Mornington busy with a tour to mark the 50th anniversary Peninsula. We often camped around Rye of his very first hit, It Ain’t Necessarily So. and Rosebud, mostly in national parks.
56 timetoroam.com.au on the roam | celebrity camper What was it like living on the out of fencing wire I could drop it onto the hot air road while on tour? exhaust to heat up my beans. I placed it on the back about 10 minutes before we were due to The Playboys and I spent most of our time have lunch, then went to sit up the front. Driving on the road from about late ‘64 to the middle along we heard this incredible bang! We turned of ‘66. We’d often stay in caravan parks in our guns to where we thought the shot came this big dual wheel caravan towed by an old from, and the whole troop opened fire towards Chevy. Being on tour it was almost like the bush – bang, bang, bang. When it had camping because you’d have one relatively small calmed down and we realised we weren’t taking suitcase and a different location every night. We any incoming, I looked over and saw the can of Trooper Norman played in every town from Brisbane John Rowe baked beans all over the side of the vehicle. to Cairns with a population bigger than 2000. We did one night stands for six months, came back Normie with to Sydney to record, then went out another six Do you have any camping tips? daughter Bianca months. It gave me an incredible love of being Yes, if you’re going to eat canned food, pierce out on the road, meeting people in rural areas. the can before you put it over the fire. I’ve done a lot of Variety Club Bashes, and Have you done any they always look for really out of the way places. camping outside of touring? If anyone wants to break into the outback, I’d recommend hooking up with a Variety Club Bash I spent a great deal of time camping when I was and become involved in it, raise money for kids, in the army. It was very different. We’d camp in a and see awesome places. I joined a bash in different spot every night. I was in an armoured Kalgoorlie one time, and we headed some 400km personnel carrier, we’d pull up and shut down, north of the city…. when we arrived at the location, so we spent our time inside these carriers on which only had a grid reference, there here was bench seats or in hammocks. After that I didn’t this big army set up with a camp kitchen – we had really want to camp much. My first wife’s idea a black tie dinner in the outback. It was surreal. of camping was a suite at the Hilton with room Another bash took me to Ararat in Victoria and I service and hot water running. My second wife ended up sharing a car with Peter Brock through on the other hand grew up out west of Bourke the Grampians. Variety does some absolutely Layne and Kirk on the road and camping was a thing that everybody amazing things, and being involved with them did, you know, everybody had a bed roll. over the years has been such a great joy. Layne and Kirk in the Northern Territory Tell us about some of your What are some of your favourite favourite camping memories Aussie destinations? I remember we had this one Christmas in the I’m happiest when I can’t see anything man made. early 1980s where we camped with two or One of places that I loved more than any was in the three other families at the Colo River in the Pilbara, because it’s just so different, it’s unique. Upper Hawkesbury and I was able to use all Things such as the Ord River, Kununurra, the these skills that I’d learned in Vietnam; setting sunrise and sunsets, the springs and freshwater up hutchies, a big tarpaulin half the size of a lakes, crossing the Fitzroy River is amazing and NORMIE ROWE footy field for shade, and a rotisserie to cook the Bungle Bungle Ranges, they look just like a a big side of lamb over the fire. I did all that giant chocolate layer cake. You can’t believe how with my Swiss Army pocketknife, which you fantastic it is. Big vistas enthral me. For great could do just about anything with. A ll the views, Mt Keira out from Wollongong is fantastic. kids were running around and just enjoying Maleny and Montville, the Gold Coast along the outdoors, it was a fantastic holiday. Springbrook. Australia has some amazing vistas.
Any not so great camping memories? Where’s next on your camping wish list? On Stage 1967 post UK Memory is a wonderful thing; it does tend I’m not a big camper, you know, I’ve done it. I’ve to put a lot of the good things at the top of done caravan parks, I’ve slept in tents. I bought the list. I’d rather remember the fun things. a bike about 12 years ago and I put a tent on There was one great thing. In Vietnam we the back to go see places I’d never seen before. had a driver named Dallas, who was a bit Australia is never-endingly surprising and people of a portly chap and he loved his food. who don’t leave the cities all their life just miss We were eating American rations, and he out. On the road up around Biloela, there’s just got his parents to send all these spices this fabulous expanse of a valley in front of you. and herbs over. We were eating gourmet Travel has just given me such a love of this great meals every night when he cooked. continent. I haven’t ridden it for about two or three One other time I was out bush and sick months because of the weather, but there’s a good of eating cold meals, so I made a cage chance that I might take off and find a little spot.
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 57 on the roam people | Photos by Justin Roberts
1950s Gypsy Super Gem
1962 Sunliner
Denise and Peter Taylor with Daryl and Elain Smith 1965 Olympic Riviera their homemade 50s caravan
Bob and Yvonne Kerr John and Lyn Tic and their 1960 Newcastle caravan
Shellharbour Vintage Rally Shellharbour Caravan Park, October 21-28
58 timetoroam.com.au AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
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Licensee and authorised distributor of Winnebago Industries Inc., Forest City Iowa USA on the roam | people
Award Winners 2015
Stephen Lindsay, PR Queen Julie Smith & Stuart Livingston & Lisa Harvey Roams camper man David Cook
Mark Lindsay & Stuart Lamont
CCIA NSW's Lyndel Gray & Wayne Hepton
Winners Northcoast Holiday Parks Steve Edmonds, Brad Shiels & Amber Kolo AVIDA's Bruce and Ruth Binns Sarah Misdom & Sarah Garrett
NSW Caravan Industry Awards Sydney, October 13
60 timetoroam.com.au on the roam | people
Russell Evans fitted out his Iveco 4WD He's been on the road for 18 months
Michael Chilcott from Coolangatta Queensland Clive and Judy Brushett with his Austral Tourmaster from Howlong NSW
Barry Currie of Forrestfield WA Paul and Kylie Clarke in his self-converted Toyota Coaster from Geraldton WA Maggie Symons of no fixed address lives fulltime in her rig
Troy Gillis from Esperance WA Tim and Pat Colverd from Melbourne with his converted school bus with their Suncamper Sherwood
CMCA 30th National Rally > story on page 62 Albany WA, October 26 - November 1
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 61 Don Mackrill and his on the roam | people Bicentennial motorhome Rare Tasmanian-built RV attends Albany CMCA rally BY GEOFF TANGEY
This year’s Campervan and Motorhome Club of units for the staff Australia rally saw about 600 recreational vehicles travelling around converge on Albany WA, where members Australia with injected some $1 million into the local economy the Bicentennial over an eight-day period. CMCA Tasmania State exhibition. The Tasmanian Representative Don Mackrill and his wife Sue own State Government, again as I understand one of the more interesting older rigs in the rally. it, registered all of these vehicles and Built in Tasmania by Budget rentals founder provided them to the Commonwealth coming out of Tasmania is the cost to get Bob Ansett, it carries rare number plates that mark as their part of the funding process.” across Bass Strait,” he says. “For myself, a poignant moment in Australia’s national history. At the time he says it slept six people: two the wife and this rig, to come across “The plates on this vehicle are plates that were upstairs with the cab cover, two in the middle and go back costs us about $850. available to people at the time of the Australian where the table dropped down and two in “The rig is seven metres long, and once Bicentenary,” Don says. “They’re Tasmanian the back corner. Later, Budget hired it around a rig goes over seven metres then you plates, they’re coloured yellow so automatically Tasmania and eventually sold it. After a couple start to pay for the length of the vehicle. people think we’re from New South Wales.” of changes of owners Don and Sue bought it A seven-metre motor home or camper According to people he has met in 1999. They’ve since taken it all around the van gets the same price as a car. on the road, the vehicle was one of country twice, with perhaps half a dozen trips “We travel in the night so our costs are only 12 carrying the “AC” prefix. up the east coast and two to Western Australia. up in that we always get a cabin. I’d rather “Ours is AC003,” he says. “In 1987-88 Budget, Don has some useful observations for do that than sit at the bar. It’s a 14-hour I believe, loaned 12 of these vehicles to the people travelling to and from the Apple Isle. trip across, sometimes they can do it in Commonwealth Government as accommodation “The biggest problem for someone twelve and a half or twelve hours.”
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January 6 – 10 Parkes Elvis Festival The King is alive and well in central NSW. The annual Elvis pilgrimage kicks off once again with concerts, busking competitions, and Elvis exhibitions. parkeselvisfestival.com.au January 8-24 Leura Shakespeare Festival Held at the Fairmont Resort, includes performances of classics such as Love’s Labour’s Lost and The Importance of Being Earnest. sportforjove.com.au January 9 Kosciuszko Craft Beer Festival Thredbo celebrates the crisp frothy amber ale with a schedule of master classes, presentations, and blind tastings. Parkes Elvis Festival Santos Tour Down Under thredbo.com.au January 16 January 14 – 17 QLD VIC Maldon Twilight Dinner Illawarra Folk Festival Now in it’s tenth year, this evening Wollongong comes alive to the sweet December 1 – January 15 December 27 – 30 under the stars will have you licking sounds as 170 acts from Australia Summer Solstice Light Spectacle Petersville Regatta your lips then swinging your hips as and overseas take to the stage over Just north of Rockhampton, Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron’s ABBA cover band BABBA takes to three incredible days. Capricorn Caves’ dazzling flagship event is back by popular the stage. illawarrafolkfestival.com.au light display is a unique natural demand, with a competitive group maldon.org.au phenomenon where the sun pierces of keel and cruising boats from January 15 – 24 the darkness through a 14m vertical across Australia set to take part. January 22 – 26 Tamworth Country Music Festival shaft in the cave roof at midday. Geelong Festival of Sails With 700 artists and more than 2800 petersvilleregatta.com.au capricorncaves.com.au The largest annual keel boat regatta events over 10 days, Tamworth December 29 – January 1 in the Southern Hemisphere, with continues to set records. Lee December 11 – April 10 Beyond the Valley Festival over 300 yacht entries and 3000 Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers, and Medieval Power: Symbols Larder Park in Warragul is set to competitors taking part. Beccy Cole top the line-up. and Splendour host a mind-blowing line-up of festivalofsails.com.au tcmf.com.au The might of Medieval Europe musical acts such as Flight Facilities, will storm the walls of Brisbane’s February 20 January 13 – 26 Porsches, Tkay Mzaida, and Jamie Queensland Museum in an exclusive Apollo Bay Seafood Festival Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival xx. exhibition of artefacts direct from the Indulge your love of seafood with Don’t be confused by the name, this beyondthevalley.com.au British Museum. cooking demonstrations from event also features an antique military qm.qld.gov.au January 8 – 10 local and celebrity chefs, live vehicle rally, model train displays, live Girgarre Moosic Muster entertainment, market stalls and music and flower shows,. December 27 – January 1 From its humble origins with a few seafood in abundance. guyra-lamb-potato.com Woodford Folk Festival musicians playing on hay bales at the apollobayseafoodfestival.com Returning to the rolling hills and Illawarra Folk Festival - Santa Taranta January 31 – March 1 farmers market, this fantastic event wooded valleys of Woodfordia, this Murrumbateman now attracts over 1500 music fans years festival features a stellar lineup Summerside Festival and musicians. including Katie Noonan, Michael Showcasing the Poacher’s Way’s girgarre.com.au Franti, and Josh Pyke. brilliant wines and fresh produce with woodfordfolkfestival.com January 10 lazy long lunches, morning horse Lavender Harvest Festival rides,and films under the stars. December 31 Experience the annual lavender thepoachersway.com.au Charters Towers PBR harvest at Lavandula Swiss Touring Pro Series February 17 – 21 Italian Farm. Traditional harvest Thrills and spills will be guaranteed Orange Banjo Paterson demonstrations, food stalls, music, as forty of Australia’s most Poetry Festival and dance are all part of the family accomplished bull riders will Celebrates not only the work of fun. converge on the gold mining town of acclaimed poet but Australian poetry lavandula.com.au Charters Towers. and verse in general. townsvillenorthqueensland.com.au brandorange.com.au Lavandula Lavender Harvest Festival
64 timetoroam.com.au AUSTRALIA’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO REGIONAL EVENTS
SA ACT WA January 22 – 26 January 7 – 10 January 13 – 16 Port Lincoln Tunarama Festival Summernats Re.Discover Street Art The 55th annual Tunarama will fill the An annual street machine festival Festival, Bunbury streets for four days and nights of fun. which sees over 100,000 people The city is set to welcome talented Includes food, wine, music and the gather for three days of horsepower local and international street artists, Tuna Toss competition. heroics, precision driving and who will transform the CBD with a tunarama.net burnouts. series of beautiful murals. summernats.com.au sixtwothreezero.com January 23 – 24 Mount Gambier Autofest January 22 – 26 January 14 – 17 Featuring some of the best cars in Canberra Hot Rod Show n Shine Lancelin Ocean Classic the country. This event includes timed Expect vintage dress and chrome Long running windsurfing event, races, obstacle courses, a burnout as far as the eye can see as the attracting world-class competitors comp and a Show N Shine. Canberra Hot Rod Association hold from over 18 countries, will once autofest.com.au their annual show and shine event. again return to the crayfishing town. chra.org.au lancelinoceanclassic.com.au January 29 – 30 Schutzenfest February 12 – 14 January 17 Grab your stein and don your National Multicultural Festival Grapes and Gallops favourite lederhosen for Adelaide’s A free event celebrating Australia’s Festival, Mt Barker annual celebration of German culture. multicultural population, with live Wine and racing are a match schutzenfest.com.au music from The Black Sorrows, food made in heaven. More than 2,000 Santos Tour Down Under stalls, and plenty of dancing. people are expected to descend January 16-24 multiculturalfestival.com.au on Mt Barker for fine wine, fashion, Santos Tour Down Under and horse racing. The biggest cycling festival in the February 19 – 21 grapesandgallops.com southern hemisphere. Held across Canberra Food & Wine Expo the Adelaide region, includes If you love good food and wine, February 13 – 19 street parties, concerts, and you won’t be disappointed by the Club Marine Geographe plenty of cycling. Canberra Food and Wine Expo. Bay Raceweek tourdownunder.com.au Enjoy demonstrations, master WA’s longest running yacht regatta, classes, and degustation dining. which attracts around 100 yachts foodandwineexpo.com.au and 1,000 sailors annually. Expect great racing, plus off water events for spectators. gbraceweek.com February 18 – 21 Boyup Brook Country Music Festival Artists such as John Williamson, Red Ochre, and Codee Lee will take to the stage for the 31st annual country music festival. countrymusicwa.com.au > continued on page 66
Illawarra Folk Festival - Santa Taranta WOMADelaide. Credit: SATC
Toyota Country Music Festival Rodeo Lavandula Lavender Harvest Festival Illawarra Folk Festival - East Pointers Credit: Destination Tamworth
Issue 18 Dec/Jan 2016 65 Cummins Wonderland TAS NT December 28 – January 3 January 23 – 24 Taste of Tasmania Hottest 7s in the World Learn from the local producers on Featuring high profile teams from a Food Tour or join a Tasting Table Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore at this annual event on Hobart’s and beyond, Hottest 7s will live up to waterfront. Expect fantastic food it’s name with some first class rugby. and live entertainment. hottest7s.com thetasteoftasmania.com.au February 8 – 15 January 13 – 18 Imparja Cup Cricket Carnival MOFO (aka MONA FOMA) What started as a friendly match Hobart’s quirkiest museum is set to between Alice Springs and CARAVAN AND CAMPING SHOWS once again host it’s annual festival Tennant Creek has grown to a of music and art, with a stellar line- national celebration of cricket and January 30 –31 February 19 – 21 up of musicians and artists. indigenous culture. Queanbeyan 4WD Spectacular Moreton Bay Caravan, mofo.net.au ntcricket.com.au 4wdspectacular.org.au Camping & Boating Expo australianevents.com.au February 5 – 7 Newcastle Caravan, February 19 – 21 Camping & Holiday Expo Illawarra Caravan, caravan-camping.com.au Camping & 4WD Show ruralscene.com.au February 11 – 16 Victorian Caravan, Camping March 16 – 20 & Touring Supershow Perth Caravan & caravanshow.com.au Camping Show caravanandcampingshow. February 17 – 21 com.au SA Caravan & Camping Show caravanandcampingsa.com.au
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