iMotorhome - Horizon Motorhomes

iMotorhome
magazine
Issue 67: Mar 0 2015
because getting there is half the fun...
Paradise
Found!
Win!
$50 for the!
best letter
Our mega touring
Win a Duvalay!
Win your very own Duvalay luxury sleeping bag…
Six of the Best
Part one of a fortunate reader’s report!
Integrity SL…
Kid’s Concept Camper…
Design ideas to make RVs more family friendly
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Jess Ciampa, Emily Barker,
Elizabeth & Helmut Mueller
PO Box 1738, Bowral.
NSW 2576. Australia.
Design & Production Manager
ABN: 34 142 547 719
E: [email protected]
Agnes Nielsen
T: +614 14 604 368
E: [email protected]
W: www.imotorhome.com.au
Advertising Manager
Keith Smyth
M: 0408 315 288
Publisher/Managing Editor
T: 03 9579 3079
Richard Robertson
E: [email protected]
T: 0414 604 368
E: [email protected]
Roadtest Editor
Malcolm Street
E: [email protected]
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ReaLIty VIRtue
One of the blessings of our technological age
is the ability to access information virtually
anywhere, any time. On our travels across
America last year and our recent adventures
we’ve learned much about the things we’ve
seen and the towns we’ve passed through by
Googling them as we go. Even if you don't have
a data package for your smart phone, tablet or
laptop, the proliferation of Wi-Fi hotspots means
the ability to access information and satisfy
your thirst for instant answers and immediate
gratification isn't far away.
What brought this to mind was a bicycle ride a
few days ago. I’ve ridden one particular route
at least 500 times – but probably closer to 700
– and in some subtle or obvious way each ride
has been different.
We have a small home gym with a traditional
exercise bike; one that has largely gathered
dust since I started iMotorhome. As efficient
as it is at preserving cardiovascular fitness the
experience is about as satisfying compared
with a real bike as a $3 bottle of red compared
to a Grange. Last winter, however, when the
winds were strong and the temperature about
as low as my enthusiasm to battle them I
splashed out on a new high-tech exercise bike.
Not only does it look like a proper road bike –
complete with drop handlebars, (almost) proper
gear shifters and cleats to lock in my bike
shoes – its main attraction is its technology.
The bike – called the Official Tour de France
Exercise Bike no less – has a seven inch colour
screen that lets me follow rides downloaded
from the Internet or that I’ve created myself. It
uses Google Maps and Google Street View to
display them in real-time and let me ride pretty
much anywhere in the world. It's real party
piece, however, is it tilts up or down following
the terrain as I go; as much as 20° in either
direction.
It’s involving, clever, innovative and just damn
cool, to be honest, but it's not real. There's
no wind in the face, bumps from the road,
temperature changes between sun and shade,
rabbits darting across in front, squeaking
brakes, cows mooing or exhilaration down my
favourite hill. Admittedly there’s no chain to
come off, no flat tires, no lunatic motorists and
no swallowed insects. But on balance it still
doesn't really cut the mustard. It's virtual reality
without the virtues of reality.
Travel can be like that. You can research any
destination on the Internet and probably see
more from the comfort of your favourite chair
than by visiting. But when home becomes too
comfortable; when you're too happy with the
status quo; when the thought of launching
out into the world creates more anxiety then
anticipation; that’s when you need to go.
Why travel? Why buy a motorhome? Why
spend weeks on the road contending with
all the vagaries, the weather and expense?
Because we all need to know we’re alive and
that our experiences count for something.
There are friendships to form, memories to
make and life to be lived. Really lived. So get
on your ‘bike’, feel the
wind in your hair, the
sun on your face and
remember what it's
like to be truly alive.
Reality is a virtue and
it's precious. Catch it
while you can.
Richard
3
About Us
7
Resources
5
On my Mind
9
On your Mind
22
Marketplace
Who we are, where and other legal stuff
Find back issues and more on
our website
Reality Virtue
Share your thoughts for the chance to
win $50!
12
News
24
Feature: Freedom Camping
26
Mega Touring Test: Paradise Integrity SL
50
Reader Report: Six of the Best!
56
Concept: Carakids Campers
62
Tips: Camping Health and Hygiene
66
Mobile Tech: Snap Send Solve. Simple!
70
Next Issue
What’s happening in the wider RV world and beyond
The latest Marketplace offers
A monthly round-up of what’s going on in the fight for your free camping rights
Stand & Deliver – and we did, from Adelaide via Broken Hill to the Gold Coast!
One fortunate reader shares his experiences in the first of a two part series…
Child friendly concepts to broaden RVings appeal!
Hints to make your time in the great outdoors safer more enjoyable
A free app to bring out the warrior citizen in all of us…
What’s coming up and which shows
are on soon!
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Dethleffs ‘baby’ A-class is
something to ogle at…
Review and images by Malcolm Street
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Survey
Reader
Review
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Win $50 for the best letter!
It’s only fitting that since Ed has his say in On
My Mind, you should be able to have yours too.
If you have anything to say – or ask – just drop
a line to [email protected] and
we’ll share it with our readers. We’ll also reward
the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter
each issue with $50 to help you on your way.
Happy Ex-Rental Owners
Hello Richard. It was interesting to read your
review of the A'van Ovation, being a rental
motorhome, and the prospect of purchasing such
a vehicle. What made the read so interesting is
that we have recently acquired a recently “retired”
Britz motorhome. The vehicle we now have is a
Jayco Maverick, similar in design to the Conquest,
but I guess Jayco needed it to be different for a
rental vehicle.
the second-hand motor vehicles legislation. We
did elect to purchase a 3-year warranty package,
which cost us just over $2000. Normally I am very
cynical of these and ignore them, but decided in
this instance it was not a major cost in relation to
the purchase and hopefully will be worthwhile (if
needed).
Having said that, the dealer did pay for a prepurchase mechanical check of the vehicle and
Being able to compare your review with what we
repair of all matters reported, including two new
have acquired has made us feel happy that we
tyres even though the existing were worn, but
have made the right decision. As expected, we
legal. They also replaced an intercooler hose that
have encountered some wear and tear, but the
showed some wear. They have also been good
bulk of these things have been fixed with a little bit with a few minor queries post-purchase, such
of lateral thinking. When combined with the leather as parts to fix a water flow issue with the water
seating and timber-look finish, we feel equal to all
pump. I was able to fix that by placing a one-way
other motorhomes we have met on the road, with flow valve into the system. Other than that, wear
a purchase that was within our budget. Similar
and tear issues were minor, such as one drawer
to your comments, a second house battery and
that did not close easily as the rollers came off the
inverter would have been good, but we can have
track –a simple washer under a screw fixed that.
them added later when the budget allows.
Similarly, the shower door holding strap needed
a larger washer to hold in place and a few loose
The 3-year old motorhome has travelled just over
screws needed a match and glue to make the
130,000 km and cost $75,000. I have noticed
holes smaller so they gripped.
others of the same model for sale by the same
and other "Britz/Maui" sellers in various states for
Other than these points, we really cannot
between the same price and $80,000. This link
find any issues with the Jayco. As would be
will show you an identical Jayco the same agent is expected, there are a few wear and tear marks on
now advertising.
cupboards, but really they are minor and generally
not noticed. The leather upholstery is in excellent
We were not given any warranty but did
condition and the timber-look flooring shows little
understand that these vehicles are not covered by wear.
Continued...
...continued
While we have made our decision and know
it was right for us, what may have been useful
would have been being able to find more
information on what to look for when buying
pre-loved or “retired” motorhomes. Maybe this
is an area iMotorhome can investigate for future
articles, or if they have already been published,
an index to them on your website. Anyway, keep
up the good work in the magazine. We only
discovered it about 2 months ago, but have
already downloaded past editions onto the laptop
for future reading.
issues after what's not likely to have been an
easy first three years for it. Fingers crossed you
never need to find out if the warranty was a good
investment, but please keep us informed if you
ever have to call on it. Third party aftermarket
warranties generally have a poor name and it
would be interesting to hear of any experiences
you have. Safe travels and please take this issue’s
$50 Best Letter reward with you to help you on
your way!
Regards, Eric.
That’s very interesting Eric, I'm sure our readers
will value your information and insights – especially
if they're in the market for a similar vehicle. It's
good to hear the dealer – Camperagent RV
Centre in Adelaide – did the right thing by you.
It's also good to hear the Jayco has held up well,
and with apparently few structural or mechanical
Self-Uncontained…
Hi Richard. I know how you love these beasts and
would like this one in particular because it has the
special rare windscreen that pops out! The two
middle-aged fellows travelling in it said they were
in this self-contained camping area because the
fridge was in the back with one swag and a water
container. I think the bushes behind us were the
toilet.
The “ute” was parked next to me like they were
in a parking lot and then they laid the second
swag out under my bedroom window, about a
metre from me. I told the chap that he would be
unhappy doing that because the water pump
would wake him up when I showered early in
the morning, but he wasn’t worried. A bit of a
stare and he got the message and moved it to
the other side. However, at 3:23 am I heard a
terrible choking noise repeated over and over and
thought my dog was having a fit of some sort, so
jumped out of bed to check on him. It wasn’t Tim!
It was one of those two having an apnea attack.
I slammed the window open and closed a few
times and that must have made him turn over!
Cheers, Laurie.
Thanks Laurie, I love the photos but I love
the story more! They obviously meant no harm
but it really does show how people push the limits
of ‘self-contained’ camping, which can so easily
give those opposed to this freedom ammunition
for their cause. Happy travels and please share
with us any other unusual ‘RVs’ you find on your
travels.
Personalise your journey...
Last year we celebrated our 40th anniversary
manufacturing Australia’s most beautiful
recreational vehicles. This year we are looking
forward.
In 2015 we are excited to release 3 new models on
new chassis’, including the grandest motorhome
to leave our production facility. We are investing
in our customer support with new team members
and resources to ensure our Sunliner customers,
new and old, feel the same care and attention that
we invest in our motorhomes.
We have several new projects including our new
website release and the introductinon of a new
Sunliner Online Community.
We look forward to meeting and sharing with
you our beautiful motorhomes and campervans
throughout the year at the Camping and Caravan
Shows, at our dealerships and online.
2015
www.sunliner.com.au
FREE WiFi AT DEVILS MARBLES
I
nternet access is
now available at
one of the Northern
Territory’s most remote
tourist locations, with
free WiFi switched on
at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), 105 km south of
Tennant Creek. Chief Minister Adam Giles said it
was the third and final location in the rollout of a
free WiFi trial across Territory parks and reserves.
Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park was
hooked up last October and Watarrka (Kings
Canyon) went mobile last month.
“This free WiFi will allow tourists and Territorians to
instantly upload their happy snaps from one of our
spectacular landmarks to a word-wide audience.
There is nothing more effective than word-ofmouth marketing with visitors using social media
sites such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to
showcase some of the NT’s best natural assets.”
Mr Giles said.
Minister for Parks and Wildlife Bess Price said the
free WiFi was great news for Karlu Karlu, which
receives 177,000 visitors a year.
“The service will operate during daylight hours
and extend from the day-use car park area where
there is a clear line of sight. We’ve worked closely
with the Central Land Council and traditional
owners to establish the service, which will
incorporate a Welcome to Country and important
Park information.”
Other sites may be considered for Wifi in the
future depending on outcomes of the trial. The NT
Government has set up new interpretative signage
at Karlu Karlu from a $1.3 million pool of NT and
Commonwealth funding for tourism infrastructure
and development projects.
Webasto – your gas free solution for independent travelling
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Thermo Top –
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Fast heat up times
Can be combined
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Extensive range of
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Robust high quality with
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OPEN 7 DAYS!
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WHY ARE WE THE
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AUSTRALIA?
Open 7 days for fantastic show deals!
Over 250 New & Used Motorhomes & Caravans on display
Award-winning Australian family owned business
Fast, Easy & Competitive Finance Available
Trades Welcome (Cars, Motorhomes, Caravans etc)
RV’s prepared by our team of Professional Technicians
We want your business wherever you are in Australia!
Flights, Airport Transfers & Accommodation arranged
RV Collections & Deliveries Australia wide
Professional handover – Learn how everything works
Free 2 night stay at local caravan park while you get
used to your RV
Award winning, ongoing after sales service & support
We take good care of you!
STATE OF THE ART SERVICE CENTRE, FOR ALL YOUR
SERVICING NEEDS
OVER 250 NEW & USED MOTORHOMES AND CARAVANS IN STOCK!
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SYDNEY RV SUPER CENTRE (02) 4722 3444
BUTANE ‘LUNCHBOX’ COOKERS BANNED IN NSW
suspended by the independent safety certifiers
and cookers of this type can no longer be sold
lawfully in NSW.
N
SW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod
Stowe is warning consumers not to buy
portable butane ‘lunchbox’ type cookers
due to safety issues, including overheating.
Compliance certification for all current models
of ‘lunchbox’ type gas cookers has been
Testing, undertaken at the request of NSW
Fair Trading and other State gas regulators,
has found a fault with the cookers’ shut-off
valves, posing a risk that the devices may
overheat and could explode. Consumers who
have purchased a non-compliant gas cooker
and have proof of the purchase should seek
a refund as soon as possible. For consumer
safety information and advice visit the NSW
Fair Trading website or phone the Call Centre
on 13 32 20.
WIN A DUVALAY!
Win your very own 4 cm x 66 cm Duvalay luxury memory
foam sleeping bag and matching Duvalay tote bag, valued
at $288.95!
The Duvalay memory foam sleeping system is simply
changing the way people are sleeping away from home. For
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Q: What thickness of memory foam is Liz demonstrating
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Email your answer to [email protected] and like our
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Good luck and sweet dreams!
MACKAY CONSIDERS PARK PROPOSAL
M
ackay Regional Council in North Queensland is considering a
new application to develop 57 ha (141 acres) of bushland at
the mouth of the Pioneer River. The project, which would
include a 238-site caravan park, has been in limbo for a decade after
environmental concerns. Developer BMD said it had now dealt with the
problems. General manager Wayne Rex told media: "The major caravan
park will be for grey nomads that have nowhere to stay at the moment.”
NEW WA REST STOP
C
onstruction is expected to begin this month on a new $455,000
rest area near the old Western Australian gold rush town of Mount
Magnet. The facility on the Great Northern Highway about 60km
south of the town should be ready before June. Transport Minister Dean
Nalder said it would be situated at Kirkalocka Station. "This rest area will
provide a place for road users to make overnight stops, with camping
facilities and sealed parking bays for heavy vehicles," he said. Funding
has been made available through The Western Australian Caravan and
Camping Action Plan funded by the Royalties for Regions program.
From the ocean to the outback and destinations in between.
Fancy some scenic touring through the Flinders Ranges, or paddling
a kayak on Cooper Creek? Perhaps a bit of camping solitude in the
Gawler Ranges
Beachport or just lazing back at Melrose for a couple of days.
Whatever your fancy, this ebook for iPad contains a selection of 12
of South Australia’s most accessible and beautiful destinations that
offer travellers great touring and fantastic camping opportunities.
Whether you’re travelling by motorhome, towing a caravan or just
packing a tent, there are destinations for everyone!
ONS
TINATI
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For more information visit
www.ebooktraveller.com.au
The Wirraway 260 SL
With it’s Full Length Slideout Room & Apartment
Styled Layout !
From WIRRAWAY, “Australia’s Most Innovative Motorhomes”
Wirraway is a dedicated family owned business striving for Motorhome excellence.
Our Motorhomes are our passion! Every Wirraway Motorhome is handbuilt and designed by
experienced motorhomers who know the importance of making life easier on the road.
New to our Range is the brilliant ‘live like a movie star’ Wirraway 260 SL,
the latest in our 260 series; our EuroStyle 260 with it’s European styled interior
and “The Motorhome of the Year”, the Wirraway 260.
Wirraway Motorhomes feature opulence, style and all the legendary design,
electrical and construction innovations that are unique to all Wirraways.
Each Wirraway Model is unique! - All are a Must See!
View Our New Website to view All Models, Download Brochures &Virtual RealityTours
For details contact: Rob Tonkin - Wirraway Motorhomes, 6 Hynes Court, Mildura Vic 3500
Phone / Fax: (03) 50 230 230 - New Email: [email protected] & New Website: www.wirraway.com.au
On The Road Wirraway 260SL Slideout Motorhome - 2012 © Rex Willmer
WA CAMPING AREA RULES CHANGED
Simpson said the new regulations required
nature-based parks to meet consistent
minimum standards wherever they were. This
would provide assurance for holidaymakers
and encourage greater investment in the
industry.
R
ules banning small nature-based
camping areas within 50 km of West
Australian caravan parks have been
scrapped. Changes to the Caravan Parks and
Camping Grounds Regulations 1997 will now
allow more of them throughout the state.
WA has 25 licensed nature-based parks,
small-scale tourist camping areas in natural
landscapes. Local Government Minister Tony
"The new regulations define a nature-based
park, where there was ambiguity before.
They improve the minimum health and safety
requirements and impose a responsibility
on the owners to advertise limited facilities.
Visitors will have greater clarity about what to
expect.” Mr Simpson said.
The changes were the result of a three-month
consultation by the Department of Local
Government and Communities with local
governments and other stakeholders. The
Western Australian State Government has
launched a Parks for People Caravan and
Camping initiative; a $21 million investment
over four years.
PIONEER VILLAGE EASTER FESTIVAL
of Pioneering life. These include arts, crafts,
music, vintage machinery and age-old crafts
such as silversmithing, tinsmithing and
blacksmithing. They say kids will love the old
steam and stationary engines at work, while
the heavy horses are always a favourite.
A
ccording to organisers at Highfields
Pioneer Village near Toowoomba,
volunteers are gearing up for the huge
annual 3-day Easter Vintage Festival, held over
the Easter long weekend April 4 to 6.
“The theme is ‘Reminiscing the past,’ so
come and experience rural life in the Australian
Pioneer days! Milk a cow, learn to crack a whip
or how to be a blacksmith. Enjoy billy tea and
damper made on authentic camp ovens and
don't miss the spectacular Grand Parade, plus
all the baby animals in the nursery.”
“There truly is something for everyone at
the Easter Vintage Festival, so gather up
your family and friends and help keep the
‘Australian Pioneering Spirit Alive’ – just 15
mins north of Toowoomba at Highfields
Pioneer Village, Wirraglen Rd, Highfields,
Queensland.”
The Village is open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm
daily. Entry Fees are $20 for adults, $15 for
concessions, $5 for children, or $45 for a
family (2A + 4Ch <15yrs). EFTPOS and credit
cards are welcome but you can save time and
money by buying specially discounted tickets
online at www.trybooking.com.
Organisers also promise there will be live
music and great food, and that you might
even encounter the infamous bush ranger Ned
Kelly. The festival is billed as an affordable,
entertaining weekend for all ages featuring
displays and demonstrations from all aspects
Highfields Pioneer Village
Presents its 18th Annual
Present this ad for
$2 off per
ticket per voucher.
Easter Vintage Festival 2015
4th to the 6th APRIL 2015 - EASTER SATURDAY,
SUNDAY & MONDAY OPEN 9:00AM TO 5:00PM
Blacksmithing, Animal Nursery, Markets, Country Music, Vintage Machinery, Beekeeping, Billy Tea & Damper,
Milking the Cow, Butter Making, Ned Kelly the Bushranger, Model Trains, Arts and Crafts,
Sausage Making, Sheep Shearing, Hay Baling, Bag Loading & Sheaf Tossing!
Just 15mins Drive North of Toowoomba.
Reminiscing
the past.
No matter how old you are there is something for
everyone at Highfields Pioneer Village!
(07) 4696 6309
www.eastervintagefestival.com
73 Wirraglen Rd Highfields QLD 4352
[email protected]
5965655aa
Sponsored by:
FEATURED MARKETPLACE LINKS
T
he iMotorhome website’s Marketplace
Directory is growing. It’s designed to link
you with businesses that can help you,
no matter what you’re looking for. Here are
our featured links for this month, please visit
to discover their specialised services and find
out if they have something you might just be
looking for!
Ozcape Campers, West Burleigh, Qld:
Luxurious slide-ons, suitable for most one-ton
table top utes. European-style design provides
maximum living space and storage.
no matter where you are. Create “your other
address” at their address.
Trail Mail Australia: The customer focused
team forwards mail for all travellers, taking care
of it so you can concentrate on having the
greatest holiday/lifestyle possible.
The Goodwins and Son, Loganholme,
Qld: Converting a bus or need repairs or
modifications like roof lifts, door relocations,
slide-outs, etc? See The Goodwins and Son!
Pass The Post: Travelling? What about your
post? We ensure you receive it wherever
you are, when you require. Choose them to
become your personal postman!
Fifth Wheelers Australia, Warrenheip
(near Ballarat), Vic. Specialist importers of
quality new and used fifth-wheelers, each
fully converted and registered to Australian
standards.
Northcoach Equipment, Nerang, Qld:
Converting a vehicle to a motorhome or
upgrading your existing motorhome? Find
everything at their friendly one-stop shop.
Tilta Trailers, Brisbane, Qld. Tilta Trailers
supplies lightweight single-axle car trailers
weighing only 300 kg. No extra ramps
required, and easy to reverse and manoeuvre!
Aussie Mailman: Providing the ideal service
to help keep you up to date with all your mail
awrvworld.com.au
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Recently on facebook....
#quokkaselfie
Move over, wombats — there is a new Aussie animal that is
taking over the social media feeds of everyone with a pulse.
The quokka (pronounced kwoka) tasted fame in 2013, when
it was dubbed the "happiest animal in the world" by the
Huffington Post.
The furry marsupial, once described as "a kind of rat as big as
a common cat," has been pottering away on Rottnest Island
in Western Australia, getting in as many selfies as animaly
possible.
Under the hashtag #quokkaselfie, the mini wallaby has
become a thing. With its cartoon-like face and friendly
demeanor, tourists have fallen in love with the Aussie legend.
by Jenni Ryall for Mashable
KOMBI SETS PRICE RECORD
restoration over 5 years and had won several
awards at Day Of The Volkswagens competition
in November, including President’s Choice and
Best In Class. Shannons’ manager Christophe
Boribon said the restoration process involved
the entire car.
A
fully restored 1960 Volkswagen Kombi
Samba bus sold for a staggering
$202,000 last week at Shannons
Auctions in Melbourne. Believed to be one of
just three examples delivered to Australia in this
configuration, the 23-window Kombi sparked a
wild bidding frenzy, nabbing a record price for
the vehicle in Australia. The auctioned Kombi
Samba had undergone some $100,000 of
“They redid the body, paint, interior and
mechanicals. It was a complete rebuild. The
bidding started at $100,000 from a crowd of
600 on the floor, and several hundred internet
and phone bidders. Prices quickly rose to
$150,000 and a phone bidder eventually made
the top bid.” Mr Boribon said.
The sale comes after a string of lucrative Kombi
sales in Australia recently. Last year a battered
Kombi went under the hammer for $30,000,
while a restored version was auctioned off for
$74,000 just before Christmas.
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Airbag Man
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We design and manufacture air
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Easy to install they let you ‘level up’
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This great Aussie festival in the bush
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Freedom of Choice!
A
regular feature keeping you in touch with
what’s happened and happening in the
world of freedom camping in Australia.
These stories and more can be found in detail at
the Freedom of Choice website, indexed by
state and town, while you can also find the latest
news and updates on their Facebook page.
1 Feb – A positive story about backpackers
While this story is NZ based there are parallels
with the Australian scene and two sides to every
coin. Nice to see a dispassionate report on the
whole issue.
2 Feb – Somerset Regional Council
gets friendly
“Great news with Lowood now the second
nationally recognised RV Friendly town in
Somerset. Kilcoy is also an RV Friendly town.
Let's spread the word and bring more tourists to
town.”
5 Feb – Growth making Councils more
aware of our needs
There has been an increase in caravans and
motorhomes on NSW’s roads recently, which
validates Maitland City Council’s decision to
install a waste dump facility for the recreational
vehicles and their owners in the city.
6 Feb – Byron Bay (Yet Again)
Ten people were fined in Byron Local Court on
Thursday (5 February) as Byron Shire Council
continued its action against illegal overnight
camping. The defendants – nine of whom
pleaded guilty – were fined a combined total of
$5,350, including court costs.
9 Feb – Camping at Moss Vale Showground
a step closer
Wingecarribee Council is likely to approve a
planning proposal that will permit short stay
camping at the Moss Vale Showground. The
NSW State Government has given approval to
amend the Shire's local environmental plan to
enable camping at the showground, which is on
the Illawarra Highway.
The proposal was placed on public exhibition
in December and there was very little objection
from nearby residents.
10 Feb – Innovation from the CMCA
In the February edition of the Club's magazine
the Board announced they were starting a
program of Club owned minimum facility camp
sites. This article in the Herbert River Express
seems to be a positive step forward in the
process. (information in the newspaper article
appear largely incorrect and advise contacting
the club for accurate information)
11 Feb – I think this is called karma
For many years the caravan park industry has
turned its back on the RV tourism industry in
search of more lucrative markets.
"Bernie McGovern converted a caravan park in
Chinchilla into a motel about three years ago to
capitalise on the lack of accommodation during
the mining boom. However, he said with the
boom now cooling off, accommodation houses
in the town had seen a drop in tenants, while
mining camps remained full.
He said he could not understand why mining
companies still used the camps when so many
accommodation houses had vacancies."
20 Feb – Caravan Park proprietor creates
social media storm
“Why should East Gippsland Shire allow campers
to stay in designated zones in Lakes Entrance for
free, when it’s not proved they spend money in
the town? Lakes Entrance’s Deb McTighe cannot
see a future for designated free parking areas for
campervans and recreational vehicles in town.
While the owner of Riviera Country Caravan Park
understands the Shire’s vision to possibly trial free
parking at the Gippsland Lakes Fishing Club car
park and atop Jemmys Point at Rotary Park, she
believes the campers who do not holiday with
local accommodation providers don’t put enough
money back into the economy.”
23 Feb – Council finds solution to
backpacker problem
Or have they just relocated their problem
elsewhere without providing a solution?
17 Feb – The Facts of Life
This story is sad but true and many people are
being hurt, but it is a classic example of what
happens when you put all your eggs in the one
basket. It is an ill wind but it might in an odd-ball
way be good for tourism as towns start to realise
that home grown RV tourism might just be part
of the answer to their problems.
25 Feb – Wimmera Mallee Tourism
concerned about camping trends
Wimmera Mallee Tourism believes changing
trends in camping could be detrimental to the
region’s caravan parks.
Chairman Richard Wait said more tourists now
had self-contained caravans, complete with
bathroom and kitchen equipment, meaning they
could set up anywhere and no longer needed to
rely on caravan parks for services.
He said this changing nature of caravanning was
something Wimmera Councils would have to
grapple with in the future. (This article brought a
swift response on social media).
20 Feb – Port Macquarie report of freedom
camping available
The full report can be read on page 352 of
this council document (warning - download is
large document 235 MB).
27 Feb – Wikicamps App helping
backpackers take over
Sydney parks
The article is one of many similar articles
critical of the “backpacker problem”
16 Feb – Do you agree with Keith Suter’s
theory?
RV Industry needs to sell the sizzle not the
sausage.
Stand
Deliver!
by Richard Robertson
The new Iveco Daily cab looks good and a bit more Italian/less mainstream commercial than its predecessor.
Boxy body maximises living space, while electric awning upgrade is a must, as is the external barbecue for lovers
of outdoor cooking.
W
hat simply seemed a good idea at the
time ended up our longest touring
test to date: some 2250 km over
6 days/5 nights, from Adelaide to the Gold
Coast via Broken Hill. Not only was it an
epic road test, it provided a real world living
experience in what many consider to be
the best production motorhome available in
Australia: a Paradise.
Paradise believes its motorhomes are lighter,
stronger and safer, and sights the following
reasons (amongst others) as evidence:
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built high tensile alloy rollover frame
t8BMMToJOUFSMPDLJOHDPNQPTJUFTFNJ
monocoque construction
t3PPGoPOFQJFDFDPNQPTJUFEPNFESPPGGPS
strength and light weight
t$BCJOFUToCPOEFEBOETDSFXFEUPUIFXBMMT
using full-length pieces of alloy angle
t%SBXFSToIBWFBLHMPBESBUJOHXJUI
metal runners and locks tested to 20 Gs
t%PPSIJOHFToGVMMMFOHUITUBJOMFTTTUFFM
piano hinges
t"DSZMJDNJSSPSToMJHIUBOETBGFJOBOBDDJEFOU
At 7.8 m (26 ft) the Integrity SL is
a good size compromise between
long-term liveability and touring
manoeuvrability. Twin 150 W
solar panels are standard but the
lack of a diesel space heater at
this price point is puzzling.
It’s my experience that
companies make all sorts
of claims regarding their
products. But having spent
the best part of a week
living in the Integrity SL the
overwhelming impression
it left us with was one of
strength. Every part of it –
particularly the interior – felt
solid, almost to the point
of over engineering. Mrs
iMotorhome regularly drew
my attention to how solid and
secure the cupboard and
wardrobe doors were; ditto
the shelves. The bathroom
door, she remarked one day,
“Feels more substantial than
the one in our bathroom,”
while the flip-up dining table,
“Is the easiest to use and
most secure I can remember.”
But more on all that later…
Integrity Matters
T
he subject of this
review is the Integrity
SL on the all-new and
eagerly awaited Iveco cabchassis. Well, almost. You
see, although it sported the
new cab and interior, the
test vehicle actually used the
outgoing model’s engine and
gearbox. What this vehicle
is, in fact, is what they call a
‘conforming prototype’ in the
Interlocking composite panels produce
a body that is strong and rigid.
automotive world. Motorhome
manufacturers use them to
build new body moulds and
work out the associated
engineering whilst awaiting
the arrival of the all-new
production vehicles, which in
this case are slated for May
delivery (fingers crossed).
The Integrity series is probably
best described as Paradise
Motor Homes’ entry level into
the big time. It sits above the
Free Time and Oasis Platinum
series and is visually very
similar inside and out to the
more expensive Inspiration,
Liberation and Independence
series.
There are eight models in the
Integrity range, starting with
the 7.62 m (25 ft) Integrity Lite
and culminating in the 7.92
(26 ft) Integrity Supreme, and
Setting up camp at Tooraweenah
Caravan Park, between Gilgandra
and Coonabarabran, NSW. The long
wheelbase, which softens the ride
and avoids pitching, is evident in
this photo.
all can be driven on a normal
car licence. Of the eight the
two entry-level models have
no slide-out, while the next
two up – including the Integrity
SL – have a small bedroom
slide-out. The top four models
all feature a full-length slideout that includes the bed
and various combinations of
the lounge and/or kitchen,
depending on the floor plan.
Robust utility connections are
conveniently grouped together
and make campsite set-up
quick and easy.
Integrities are available on the new Iveco Daily
50C or Mercedes Sprinter 519 CDI, with driveaway pricing in Queensland ranging from
$184,589 to $250,157. All models are 2-berth
B-class motorhomes, although an over-cab
bed that converts them to a 4-berth C-class is
available across the range for $9500. Also, a
4X4 upgrade pack is available on the Sprinterbased models for $26,500.
An Integrity SL on the all-new Iveco Daily 50C
has a base price of $193,296. The test vehicle
also had the following options: front loading
washing machine $1495; electric awning
upgrade $1295; slide-out stainless steel
barbecue $1395; external drop-down table
$495; kitchen bench extension $895; external
TV/DVD/HD $695, and an 80-channel UHF
CB radio for $695. In total the options added
$7165, bringing the price to $200,461. Onroad costs added another $6932.75 (stamp
duty at 3% accounted for $6015), taking it
to the drive-away price of $207,393.75 in
Queensland.
These prices are pushing into what I term the
luxury end of the market, but like all products
of quality the price is more than just a simple
reflection of the sum of its component parts.
Chassis Wars…
W
hen the all-new Iveco Daily 50C finally
arrives it’s likely to give Mercedes’
Sprinter a serious run for its money.
It’s the result of a €500 million (A$729 M)
investment by the Italian manufacturer and will
lift the Daily to a new level.
In the Integrity SL the Iveco chassis represents
a base-price saving of $7792 over the Sprinter,
yet it will out-spec it in some major and
desirable ways. For starters it will have an 11
kW power advantage (up 22 kW on the current
Iveco), taking output for the 3.0 L turbo-diesel
engine to 151 kW and a whopping 470 Nm.
More importantly, it will have an 8-speed fully
automatic transmission, consigning the current
6-speed automated manual to history. The
all-new drivetrain not only promises improved
performance, drivability and economy, it has an
ratio advantage over the Sprinter’s 7-speed full
auto. The pièce de résistance is factory airbag
rear suspension, which although optional on
the new Iveco will be standard across the
Paradise range. The new Iveco retains its
current rear-wheel drive setup and 3.5 tonne
towing capacity, ensuring it will remain a
favourite with those who want or need to take
a trailer or toad along on their travels.
Free camping by the old
Hart’s Mill in Port Adelaide
on the first night.
The new Iveco’s cab is much more inviting and car like than the
old model. Digital climate control is standard, whilst the instrument
cluster is clear and easy to read. Note the new handbrake switch
on the dash, between the gear selector and instruments.
New model upgrades aside, Paradise does
things differently with its Iveco Daily 50C cabchassis, ordering the longer wheelbase from
the next-model-up Daily 70C. This provides
a smoother ride, while the chassis itself is
derated from a gross vehicle mass (GVM)
of 5200 kg to 4495 kg, to allow use on a
standard car licence. The added reserve of
strength and durability is a bonus because it
means the chassis isn’t continuously operating
at its design maximum when fully loaded.
Speaking of weights, the Integrity SL as tested
had a tare weight of 3870 kg, providing a
payload of 625 kg. With full fuel (100 L ) and
full water (127 L) its wet weight was 4080 kg,
allowing 415 kg for 2 occupants and their
worldly possessions. While there are other
motorhomes with larger load capacities,
considering how solidly the Integrity SL is built
these figures are quite respectable. For the
record the test vehicle returned an average
15.51 L/100 km (18.21 mpg), although I was
sitting at the 110 km/h limit most of the trip
(115 indicated/110 actual by GPS). Normal
touring driving would improve those figures
substantially.
In the Driver’s Seat
T
he driving experience of this particular
vehicle is largely irrelevant, given the
whole mechanical set-up is about to
change. It’s worth noting that with the ‘old’
engine and six-speed automated manual
transmission performance was good and
very similar to a Fiat Ducato. Cab noise at
cruising speeds on coarse bitumen – most of
the trip – was quite high and conversations
often required elevated voice levels. The open
nature of the interior, with its hard, flat surfaces
probably accentuated this, while the side
entry door moved/squeaked a bit in its mount
(remember, this was a prototype). Given we
Top: Cab access is good, although the Iveco sits taller
than, say, a Fiat Ducato and requires more of a climb in.
Below: The passenger seat swivels easily to become a
main dining seat. Note the reading light above and the air
conditioning’s remote control on the wall by the dinette.
were very light, with virtually no load aboard
and little thought to packing things properly
away, I’m sure the overall interior noise was
higher than would have been normal.
The new cab interior looks and feels good, but
for the money (and comfort) a leather-wrapped
steering wheel would be nice. There are cup
holders on the dash and bottle holders in the
doors, so you never need go thirsty, while
all controls, as they say, fall easily to hand.
Visibility was good – the new windscreen is a
few inches taller and the seat bases slightly
lower – while the turning circle proved quite
good despite the longer wheelbase. Body roll
was minimal and braking was strong, making
it an all-round comfortable and confidence
inspiring package.
Only a driver’s airbag was fitted to the test
vehicle (from what I could see) but a passenger
air bag will be standard, while side airbags look
like being offered by Iveco as an option. Antilock brakes (ABS), electronic traction control
(ETC) and electronic stability control (ESC) will
all also be standard on the new Iveco.
There were two stand-out items; the first
being the heated leather cab seats; highly
comfortable suspension units with dial
adjustment to suit your weight. At no time
in our long driving days did either of us
experience back ache or a numb you-knowwhat, while the high quality leather upholstery
added a real feeling of luxury. Paradise uses
its own ADR-approved swivel seat bases and
both seats – yes, including the driver’s – could
easily be turned around. The secret is the
other stand-out item: A dash-mounted electric
handbrake!
The Integrity SL is right at home
on the open road. Heated leather
suspension seats provide ultimate
touring comfort for the driver and
passenger alike.
Owners of Iveco-based motorhomes have
long bemoaned the conventional handbrake’s
position – to the left of the driver’s seat –
and in this new model, unbelievably, nothing
changed. So Paradise took it upon themselves
to develop a totally new solution: an electromagnetic handbrake that does away with
the in-cab lever. The new arrangement
incorporates the existing handbrake
mechanicals but uses a dash-mounted switch
to engage and release it. The subject of much
pre-production testing the new handbrake
worked flawlessly during our test and quickly
became second nature to use. It’s so good
in fact it seems Iveco is keen to buy the kit
from Paradise! In use it takes a few seconds
to completely engage or release, which isn’t a
problem, but my only concern is what happens
if you accidentally activate it while driving.
Some sort of over-speed cut out switch or
just a physical guard around the switch,
which is right by the steering wheel, is worth
considering.
Body Matters
A
s mentioned, interlocking composite
panels produce a body that is strong
and rigid. Double glazed acrylic Seitz
single-hopper windows are used all-round,
but without the usual three detent opening
positions. Instead, the windows can be
opened to pretty much any degree you like
Clockwise from top: Under-bed storage is also the deepest external locker and best for bulky items. Batteries,
charger and electrical connections are easily accessed in this rear locker. Optional outdoor barbecue, TV and folddown table are perfect for entertaining, whilst twin 4 kg gas cylinders still leave half a locker for storage.
and just pulled closed again, instead of having
to push them further out to first release the
locking mechanism as is usual. They do,
however, still have the integrated insect
screens/privacy blinds which are a bit fiddly
and require a delicate touch. On a couple of
occasions the wind closed the windows with a
light ‘thud’, which took a while to figure out the
first time it happened.
batteries and associated electrics – all readily
accessible. It's worth noting 2 x 150 W solar
panels and a 30 amp regulator are standard
and a great inclusion.
None of the lockers are particularly tall, so
more bulky items will probably need to go in
the locker under the bed, but overall there’s
plenty or room for ‘travelling essentials’. The
driver’s side mid-height locker accesses underbed storage, which can also be reached from
inside by lifting the bed. The corresponding
kerb-side locker in this case housed the
optional outdoor barbecue and TV and took up
part of the lower wardrobe space inside, but
wasn’t internally accessible.
External storage is excellent. There are three
lower-body dust-and-waterproof lockers and a
mid-body locker that accesses internal storage
on each side. On the driver’s side all three
lower-body lockers are available for storage,
with the centre one ideal for longer items. On
the kerb side the front one is completely empty,
the middle one houses 2 x 4 kg gas bottles but The connections for mains, tank and grey
still has storage room alongside, while the rear water are neatly grouped together under
is basically occupied by the 2 x 100 AH house the body at the back on the driver’s side,
Above left: The slide-out uses this electrically driven actuator that’s easily accessed in the under-bed storage area.
Above right: This wind down jack by the driver's side rear wheels provides added stability when the slide-out’s
extended, but seems like overkill for such a small unit.
beneath the rear locker. The mains and tank
water inlets have conventional male brass
hose connections, while the grey outlet is a
simple pipe the hose pushes over. I did have
reservations about the latter as the hose didn’t
feel too secure when pushed on, but it didn’t
fall off or leak (more than a few drops) during
three nights of use. All three connections
open and close via sturdy swing handles,
while the mains and fresh water connectors
were the most sturdy and easiest to connect
to I’ve used. Only their position – quite low
at the back of the vehicle – gave me cause
for concern lest they drag on a driveway or
something, but in practice there were no
issues during our test.
Another item worth noting is a wind-down
leg to provide stability when the slide-out’s
extended. A sturdy AL-KO unit, I have to admit
to thinking it’s rather overkill given how little
the bed-only slide-out protrudes, or how much
weight it carries. And on the topic of the slideout, it’s electrically operated from a switch
above the entry door and via an actuator under
the bed that’s easily reached if maintenance is
required, and takes about 30 seconds or so to
complete its travels. When extended it doesn’t
protrude much and is quite high up, meaning
you’re unlikely to find parking or camping
situations where it can’t be extended.
The electric awning upgrade was perhaps the
most desirable option fitted to the test vehicle
and an absolute must-have. Outdoor lighting
consists of two bright LED strips on the kerb
side, with one directly above the door. That’s
good in theory, but in practice I found the overdoor light attracted insects instantly to the top
of the door, making insect-free entry – even
quickly – largely impossible. If the over-door
light couldn’t easily be relocated then putting
Above: Awning lights are brilliant, literally, but overdoor light attracts insects. Dimmers would be good, or
maybe a separate switch for the front light.
Right: Mrs iM loved the kitchen, especially the optional
bench extension that sits over the sofa.
it on a separate switch would be a good idea
to leave the rear light on for security at night.
Also, it would be good to be able to dim the
lights as they are very bright.
Moving Inside…
W
hile a Paradise motorhome might
slip past unnoticed on the highway,
there’s no mistaking one if you look
inside! Central to Paradise Motor Homes’
design philosophy is open plan living. Entry
is via a door with security fly screen, while an
electric step retracts automatically when the
ignition is turned on. Once inside you’ll find the
lounge/dinette to the left, the kitchen straight
ahead, the east-west bed right next to the
kitchen (to the right) and a full-width bathroom
across the back. The fridge sits in a tall unit
immediately to the right of the entry door and
the whole wall between it and the bathroom
is taken with floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and
cupboards.
Left: Bathroom and wardrobe access are easy when the slide-out is closed simply by lifting the bed, which tilts easily on
strong gas struts. Right: Bed walk-around room is good with the slide out extended. Mirrored sliding bathroom door and
the sense of spaciousness even when open, like this.
I mentioned earlier there is a distinctive Gold
Coast feel to the interior of any Paradise
motorhome, including the Integrity SL. What
that translates to in practice is an open plan
design ideal for warm weather touring and
one that’s bright and airy without feeling
at all claustrophobic. It’s quite different to
a Euro-based design yet lacks nothing in
terms of storage or usability by comparison.
One of the key features that promotes this
open and spacious feeling is the flat fronts of
the overhead cupboards and their relatively
shallow depth. Euro designs tend to have
large, deep and rounded overhead cupboards
to maximise storage, but they can feel like
they're encroaching on you at head level. By
comparison there are only vertical interior lines
in the Integrity SL and the effect is noticeable
and enjoyable.
The most obvious concern with the layout
appears to be the bed, which when the slideout is retracted blocks access to the bathroom
and wardrobes. Of course Paradise has
thought of this and the bed tilts up with literally
one hand on strong gas struts to provide a
perfectly acceptable aisle to the bathroom;
one that also allows access to all the wardrobe
doors.
The only real compromise with this open plan
living concept is the lack of bedroom privacy.
Apart from the bathroom there is nowhere out
of view where you can get dressed, nor is their
any way to screen the bedroom from visitor’s
prying eyes, or at night so one person can
stay up while the other retires. A resourceful
owner could rig-up a curtain of some sort, but
it would be good to see the factory come up
with a workable privacy solution.
Living Room
T
he lounge area of the Integrity SL is
roomy and practical. Apart from both cab
seats swivelling there’s a single forwardfacing automotive style seat that’s recline and
reach adjustable, just to the left of the entry
stairs. It faces the passenger’s cab seat when
it’s swivelled, while across the aisle is a two
seat sofa between the kitchen and driver’s
seat. You could comfortably seat five people
up front for drinks, while another one or two
could sit on the edge of the bed. And unlike
many motorhome sofas with their upright
backs and hard cushions, this one is a beauty:
deep, soft and comfortable.
Between the single seat and swivelled
passenger seat is the table, which during the
day folds neatly out of the way against the wall
but leaves a decent shelf on top that’s actually
very handy in day-to-day life. When required
you simply lift the table end from floor level
and it hinges up and out, locking firmly into
place on two metal arms. Not only is it as solid
as all get-out, it's also cantilevered so there's
no annoying leg under the end to kick or trip
over. Once the table’s in position the shelf
area becomes a return along the wall to the
left of the person sitting in the single forward
facing seat. At meal times it's incredibly useful
for keeping things like condiments, glasses
and bottles off the main dining table and out
of harm’s way. Mrs iMotorhome decided it's
the most sturdy and user friendly dining table
she's used and I have to admit I can't readily
think of others to challenge it. It's certainly
so far ahead of removable tables with multiadjustable mounts and poles in terms of
ease of use and security in position as to feel
everything else should be consigned to a dolls
house. Incidentally, at lunch stops I often ate
while sitting on the sofa, which still gave easy
table access and avoided the need to swivel
the passenger seat (even though it was easy).
If I was nitpicking – it’s my job – I’d like the
single forward-facing seat to be slightly higher
in relation to the table (or the table slightly
lower) and an inch or two to the left so it's
directly in line with the swivelled passenger
seat. This latter consideration would give the
person sitting there a bit more table space
to the right of their right-hand, not only
enhancing the dining experience but making it
an ideal workstation for someone with a laptop
and a mouse. Someone like me for instance…
The over-cab area was neatly, if rather plainly,
finished to provide quite deep-but-open
storage areas above the cab seats, plus a
Top to bottom: Cantilever dining table is strong and stable,
and probably the best we've used. Bedside shelves and
deep drawers are great, but power points/USB charging
outlets would make them perfect. Two seat sofa is
comfortable, practical and just an easy reach from the table.
surprisingly useful across-cab shelf. There was
a secondary, very thin shelf between the top of
the sun visors and the full-width shelf and it was
where the optional UHF CB radio was housed;
a super-compact 80-channel GME TX3345
with all controls (inc the channel display) in the
microphone. The body was hidden out of view
and to use it I just reached into the thin shelf
and pulled out the microphone, which dangled
down trucker-style in front of me. Or it would
have if I had A: Discovered it before the second
last day and B: Remembered it was there, once
discovered!
There were a pair of slender, flexible chrome
reading lights above the passenger’s and
driver’s seats that had two positions; one
providing a bright white reading light and the
other a dark blue mood/nightlight. However,
there was no reading light for the single seat
occupant. On the subject of lights those in
the Integrity SL were literally brilliant. I think I
counted nine in the main ceiling, each with three
LEDs, plus when you turned on the rangehood
light there was a recessed LED strip running the
length of the kitchen’s overhead cupboards. If
anything the lights were a little too brilliant and
although they could be zoned (kitchen, lounge,
bedroom) they couldn’t be dimmed, which I
think is an oversight. Speaking of oversights,
although there was a generally plentiful
supply of double 240-volt mains power points
throughout the living area there were no USB
charging outlets, or 12-volt sockets apart from
the two in the cab. Also, there were no bedside
power points even though there were the same
reading lights as the cab, so there was power in
the slide-out. Just sayin’….
The Cook-Up!
B
Reading lights have white or blue light options. Overcab storage boxes are handy but a door would help
secure taller items.
ecause this was a brand-new vehicle
that had just made its debut at the
Adelaide Caravan and Camping Show
there were restrictions on how we could use
it. Specifically and quite understandably we
were unable to use the cooker or barbecue
to prevent discolouration. So we took along a
$20 single burner gas table-top stove; the type
Main kitchen unit is compact but lacks bench space apart from the cooker lid (when closed). Cooker has a single
electric hotplate and electric oven, while the tap has a filtered drinking water function. Deep drawers provide
excellent storage.
that uses a disposable butane canister you
buy in a pack of four from Big W for about $5.
Fortunately the weather was hot and we ate
cereal for breakfast and a lot of salads, but
we were allowed to use the microwave, which
proved useful at dinner time as we stayed in
caravan parks all the way across.
As stated the main kitchen unit sits along
the driver’s-side wall opposite the entry door,
between the bed and sofa. It’s well-equipped
but there isn’t a lot of bench space as
standard, although the cooker is recessed and
has a flush-fitting benchtop lid that’s invaluable
when its not being used. You can transform
the kitchen by ordering the lift-up-and-over
bench extension that covers the two seat
sofa and effectively doubles work space. It's
another must-have option and stores neatly
away between the sofa back and wall.
Appliances in the main unit comprise a
cooker with three gas rings and one electric
element, with a gas grill and electric oven
with turntable below. There’s also a stainless
steel rangehood, stainless steel single-bowl
sink with drainer, and a substantial chrome
flick-mixer tap with selectable filtered drinking
water. There’s a small splashback beside the
sink at the bench-end that serves double duty
stopping water splashing onto the bed as well
as visually and mentally delineating the cooking
and sleeping areas. Three drawers below the
sink and one beneath the oven provide good
storage space along with overhead cupboards
between the bedroom and cab.
As also stated earlier the two-door Dometic
175 L fridge freezer sits in a tall unit to the
right of the entry door, opposite the sink.
Above it is a thin open shelf, above which is
another piece of laminated benchtop that's
home to the TV/DVD on a very sturdy swivel
mount. The fridge appears to be identical to
the one we recently used in the A’van Ovation;
a three-way (12/240v/LPG) unit requiring
manual switching between power sources,
Clockwise from top: Recessed LED strip provides excellent
kitchen lighting. Swiveling TV can easily be watched from bed or
the lounge. Kitchen drawers have dividers that can be adjusted to
suit individual needs.
which in a vehicle of this price isn’t going to
impress many customers, I’m thinking. Either a
compressor fridge (as specified for the Integrity
range on the Paradise website) or a three-way
unit with auto switching is more suitable. The
microwave’s position is interesting, to the left of
the fridge and recessed into the wall at perfect
height for a normal person to use. How often
have Malcolm and I railed against microwaves
mounted so high as to make their use by the
average person next to impossible? It's even
externally vented – how often do you see that?
Bedtime…
T
he Integrity SL's bedroom is really just
an extension of the lounge/kitchen area.
The queen sized east-west island bed
has its head in the slide-out and good walkaround room. There's a small bolster piece
that drops in at the head, which is ideal for
taller occupants – or those who simply like
a long lie-in (sorry). The mattress proved
quite comfortable although it sits on a solid
board and a slat base would be a worthwhile
upgrade to consider.
Clockwise from top left: How smart/spacious is this,
including the optional washing machine? Quality shower
fittings include a bulk dispenser for shampoo, etc.
Bathroom bench and basin are generous, as are the
drawers and shaving cabinet.
If I had reservations at the beginning about
the bedroom being too open and exposed to
the living area, it had an unexpected reverse
benefit. After I’d made the morning cups of tea
and returned to bed we’d sit up for a while (it’s
easy despite the window behind), then Mrs iM
would get the bowls of cereal ready and we’d
also have breakfast in bed. Being so close to
the kitchen it was a ‘snack’ (no pun intended)
to just pass them across, as was chatting with
her while she was preparing them. We also
found the wide bedside shelves with deep
drawers below very useful, but lamented the
lack of charging points for our i-devices.
Another clue to the Integrity SL’s Queensland
origins is the provision of a rooftop Truma
Aventa air conditioning/heater but no dieselfired space heater, except as an option. The
Aventa is a good air-conditioner that even
has a sleep function mode for quiet night
time operation when cooling (and a night
light), but of course requires mains power or a
generator. Power considerations aside, heating
doesn't have the quiet nighttime mode and
if you're free camping there's no substitute
for a diesel heater. To not have one standard
in a motorhome of this price seems quite an
omission.
No Compromise Bathroom
A
t last I've found the no compromise
bathroom!” Mrs iMotorhome declared
“
on the first evening. A Paradise Motor
Homes’ design signature, the full width
bathroom proved one of the highlights of living
with the integrity SL. It’s separated from the
bedroom by a large sliding door, which on the
Clockwise from top left: Dometic SOG toilet is odourless
and chemical free. Bathroom vanity set-up is perhaps the
best we’ve ever used and there’s a ton of storage in the
shaving cabinet. Note the size/strength of cabinet wall
mountings.
bedroom side is covered by a shatterproof
acrylic mirror that adds an extra feeling of
spaciousness to the whole vehicle when
closed. The bathroom features a separate
shower cubicle in the driver’s-side corner, a
central toilet, and a hand basin, bench and
vanity unit in the kerb-side corner.
The shower is domestic sized and has a
sliding opaque roller door that provides
unimpeded shower access when open. A
height-adjustable chrome finished shower with
removable hand-held nozzle has a real quality
feel, while high in the rear corner away from
the door is a chrome finished bulk dispenser
with three outlets for bath gel, shampoo and
conditioner. It’s probably something a lot of
people won’t use, but the small moulded-in
ledge for holding a cake of soap is. Ditto the
fold-out clothes rack. There’s only a single,
central drain hole but it does drain well, and
once showered there’s room to dry off inside
the cubicle if you want to.
I’m sure the shower is as big as ours at home
and, as we were plugged into mains water and
drainage, for the first time ever in a motorhome
I stood under the shower one evening until
the hot water ran out, which took about seven
minutes. That’s not bad considering the Truma
electric or gas hot water system is just 14 L
capacity and I only had it on the 60º C setting,
not 70º C.
The toilet is a Dometic SOG unit that is
chemical free and uses a small fan to draw
away odours whenever the slide-valve is
opened to empty the bowl. It’s a terrific system
that not only removes the need for expensive
chemicals (and their potential long-term
effects), it removes the chemical toilet smell
from the vehicle and is one less thing to attend
to when emptying the toilet cassette.
The bathroom vanity bench, with its highset ceramic basin and chrome flick-mixer
tap, is spacious and user friendly. I shaved
twice during our travels – a record – simply
because the bowl was big, the bench spacious
and the mirrors on the two shaving cabinet
doors so large they made the whole process
a pleasure. There’s a reversible fan hatch
between the shower and loo for fast ventilation
or extra cooling, a rear window for light and
fresh air, and an LED ceiling light for nighttime
illumination. There are also three drawers
below the bench, plus the test vehicle had an
optional 3 kg front loading washing machine.
All-in-all it’s a very well equipped and genuinely
spacious bathroom that requires no getting
used to and makes most others look tiny/
cramped/tricky/bothersome.
What We Think!
I
t’s been a decade or more since we’d last
slept in a Paradise Motor Home, in another
RV journalism life and when Paradise was a
far younger company. Since then we have all
matured, yet the basics of the Paradise design
remain largely unchanged – proof of what a
sound and basically timeless concept it is.
I was expecting good things of this extended
touring test, but time had dulled my memories
and I was regularly surprised and impressed
by so many aspects of the Integrity SL’s design
and construction. Paradise builds to an almost
industrial strength standard – and it shows.
“There is nothing tricky or fiddly with the
way everything works in this motorhome. It’s
honest, straight forward and functional, and
feels like it was made to last a lifetime.” That’s
how Mrs iMotorhome summed it up and I’m
inclined to agree. It’s also stylish, comfortable,
Bedroom slide-out sits high and doesn’t protrude much so you're unlikely to find situations where it can't be extended,
even during the day for a quick nap.
practical and just plain nice/fun to live with. It’s
not prefect – at least based on our personal
preferences – but the few flaws we picked are
minor and readily rectified. It’s also not cheap,
but like all things of quality you get what you
pay for – and in this case you get a lot back
when it’s time to trade up or out.
If you’re looking for an quality motorhome that
reflects your values of style and substance you
need to take a close look at the Integrity SL,
and indeed the whole Paradise Motor Homes’
range. There are so many model variations you
will likely be surprised by what you find.
We started at the Adelaide Show stand and
delivered back to the Gold Coast factory.
The only difficult part was handing back the
keys. That’s not always the case, but this time
we certainly weren’t ready to go home. We
even considered just keeping on going. It’s
an intoxicating idea you know – being lost in
Paradise. Maybe next time?
works in this motorhome. It’s honest, straight forward and
functional, and feels like it was made to last a lifetime.
Manufacturer
Paradise Motor Homes
Model
Integrity SL
Base Vehicle
2015 Iveco Daily 50C
Engine
3.0 L 4-cylinder twin-turbo diesel
Power
151 kW @ 3500 rpm (est)
Torque
470 Nm @ 1500 rpm (est)
Gearbox
8-speed full automatic
Brakes
ABS Disc
Tare Weight
3870 kg (as tested)
Gross Vehicle Mass
4495 kg
Towing Capacity
3500 kg
Licence
Car
Approved Seating
2
External Length
7.80 m (25 ft 7 in)
External Width
2.42 m (7 ft 11 in)
External Height
3.12 m (10 ft 3 in)
Internal Height
2.00 m (6 ft 6 in)
Bed Size (with bolster)
2.00 m x 1.5 m (6 ft 6 in x 4 ft 11 in)
Over-cab bed
Optional
Cooktop
Gas/electric cooktop with gas grill & electric oven
Fridge
175 L 3-way 2-door Dometic
Microwave
Yes
Lighting
12 V LED
Batteries
2 x 100 amp AGM
Solar Panels
2 x 150 W
Air Conditioner
Truma Aventa
Space Heater
Optional
Hot Water
Truma 14 L
Toilet
Dometic SOG cassette
Shower
Separate cubicle
Gas Cylinders
2 x 4.0 kg
Water Tank
127 L
Grey Water Tank
100 L
Price on Road QLD
$200,007
Price as tested
$207,393.75 (on road VIC)
Pros
t
t
t
t
t
t
t
t
t
t
t
Open plan living
Quality inclusions
Construction strength
Excellent lounge/dinette
Spacious bathroom
Standard solar
Cavernous storage
General liveability
Iveco’s towing capacity
Cab suspension seats
Electric handbrake
Cons
t
t
t
t
Price
Long options list
Some design features
No space heater.
Manufacturer
& Sales
Paradise Motor
Homes
Click for
Google Maps
245 Brisbane Rd,
Biggera Waters. Qld. 4216
Ph: (07) 5597 4400
E: [email protected]
W: www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au
For more iMotorhome
Road Tests click here
The new Paradise Free Time spent five days pounding the course around an automotive test track and came though
with flying colours. Read all about it in iMotorhome Issue 45.
Paradise in Hell…
I shouldn’t have been surprised the Integrity SL felt so solid, given that I witnessed firsthand
the week-long torture testing Paradise put its new Free Time model through on the Australian
Automotive Research Centre’s purpose-built test track in Victoria, almost exactly a year ago. It
featured in issue 45 on 5 April 2014 and in case you missed it, or want to refresh your memory,
you can download it and read my report by clicking HERE.
Note: Following our comments upon returning the vehicle Paradise has since confirmed it has
identified a number of road noise sources and is re-engineering them to reduce ambient sound
levels.
Relax in Paradise
Australia’s Best Quality Motorhomes
U Outstanding value for
money, competitively
priced from $158,000.
U Unrivalled Safety including
rollover protection,
auto-locking cabinetry
and superior appliance
mounting systems.
U Industry’s longest & most
comprehensive motorhome
warranty.
U Built for Australian conditions.
UÊModels available with or without slide-outs.
UÊSuperior finish with stylish new contoured exterior.
U Patented moulded bins for maximum storage capacity.
UÊOutstanding road handling & ride comfort.
UÊGenuine island queen beds and huge wardrobes.
UÊSpacious rear ensuites with separate toilet & shower.
UÊMarket leading layouts & lifestyle features.
UÊFull living area slide-outs providing superior living space.
UÊProven reliability of Paradise’s patented slide-outs.
Enjoy the prestige of owning Australia’s best quality motorhome
Paradise Motor Homes
www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au
245 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, Queensland, 4216
ph (07) 5597 4400 - email [email protected]
Paradise Motor Homes products are protected by registered designs, patents and copyrights ™ © 2013
Six of the Best!
Musings, tips and insights into full-time travel,
and a small fleet of motorhomes…
by Keith Hemburrow
ince 2000 my wife and I are lucky
enough to have had six new
motorhomes, and we’ve enjoyed
each and every one. My brother, who is also a
motorhome person, has had a similar number.
We are not locked into a particular vendor and
have owned motorhomes from Winnebago,
Jayco, A'Van, Getaway, Avida and Horizon
between us. I think we have a great deal of
experience and here I’m sharing the pros and
cons of our choices. I speak only for myself
when making the following comments.
S
When travelling, I guess we are like most other
‘Grey Nomads’ in that we have to budget
and carefully think ahead on where we spend
our dollars. But we still like to enjoy life to
the fullest. Yes we have had more than one
motorhome, but I know quite a few people
who spend more on their hobbies and habits
each year than we do on our motorhomes.
To begin, we were somewhat forced into our
lifestyle because of my health issues. We sold
our large house and chose a smaller place
that we could maintain as our base. We plan
short and long trips and probably on average
spend at least six months on the road every
year. I can't remember how many times we
have travelled around the country, but I did do
a count of trips across the Nullarbor: 22! Even
so, 200 km a day seems to be the maximum
that we travel comfortably and safely.
On our travels we do utilise a lot of the so
called ‘free camping’ spots, especially if they
are in town or in close proximity. That allows us
to walk into town, go out for a meal, shop for
our goodies and refuel both diesel and water,
hopefully helping the economy of the town.
Certainly we do not like blowing our budget in
caravan parks, especially as we don’t use what
they are offering and it leaves us no money to
spend elsewhere. Having said that, there are a
number of caravan parks that we have stayed
in and do stay in, which are close to town and
do not overcharge (a minority). We like to think
we are helping the local economy, especially
in smaller country towns. They seem to be a
lot more friendly than those along the coastal
regions of our country.
Independent Travellers
ur style of travelling is such that we
– I – do not like to stop in a location
for very long. Hence we stay for one
to three days, but have within our motorhome
O
the ability to remain self-sustained for three to
seven days, using the loo and bathroom as we
would at home. We use an average 30 litres
of water a day, while solar panels keep the
power up to our TV satellite system. It is very
rare that we would use the 2 kVA generator we
have on board. In fact it’s only required for the
air-conditioner or the microwave oven (which is
predominantly used as a bread bin!).
Our travels have not always been in
motorhomes. We are lucky to have owned
different sorts of RVs over the years and have
travelled Australia, camping every night in a
tent in a different location, sometimes sleeping
in the cabin of our 4WD. We also used a
rooftop camper on our 4WD and on a trailer,
with our canoe and or motorbike. We’ve pulled
an off-road Supreme caravan across the
country, dragged a standard old style caravan
over roads we should not have, and ridden
a motorcycle trying to miss the rain drops. In
conversation with others, I like to think, "We
have been there and done that". But of course
we haven't. There is so much to see and do
and no matter what type of transport you have,
or what or where you go, someone else has
done it more recently and seen more and can
tell you things that are of interest and can help.
At my age of close-on 70, and perhaps not
being the easiest of characters to get on with
(seems common with Vietnam Vets), we find
it comforting to travel by ourselves, taking a
few calculated risks and enjoying our own
company and the country. Sometimes we
do meet and travel with friends, but being by
ourselves allows greater flexibility. Although we
enjoy the outside environment and a campfire, it is not the central aspect of our travels.
In fact I find it rather annoying at times when
someone pulls up in close proximity and
smokes you out. But everyone to their own
thing!
The Vehicles…
ince the year 2000, when breast
cancer affected our lifestyle and I
could no longer handle the stress
of towing and setting-up each evening, we
chose to get our first motorhome. Our own
purchases have been a T4000 Mazda-based
Winnebago Leisure seeker; a 2.8 L Fiat-based
Winnebago Freestyle; a 3.0 L Fiat-based A’van
S
Ovation; a Winnebago Esperance on a 3.0 L
Iveco; a Fiat 3.0 L Avida Eyre – the best one
so far – and now have a Mercedes Benz 4x4
Horizon Acacia with a motorhome-type door.
Thoughts!
fter we went to a motorhome in 2000
he sold his caravan and purchased
his first motorhome. We often laugh
at the different approaches and attitudes
My brother has been a traveller all his life,
motorhomers and caravaners have. The
with many early 8 mm movies and heaps of
motorhome driver stops and is straight away
photos of his past, very remote travels. A lot
ready for his glass of wine or nice cold beer,
of his movies make the professionals look
whereas the caravanner has to even up,
amateurish. He had one of the first Jayco
disconnect, raise the roof, etc, etc. It changed
motorhomes based on the 2.8 L Fiat Ducato;
our lifestyle, but does not stop us getting out
a Getaway on an Iveco 3.0 L; an Iveco 3.0 L
Winnebago Esperance and now one of the 4x4 and discussing all the pros and cons of each,
of which there are many. We don’t, as many
Horizon Acacia units – a real good choice. He
suggest, have to pack up to go and get a
has done his usual hard work on selecting a
vehicle to meet his needs; so good in fact that bottle of milk or something we forgot: That
just doesn't happen and is a furphy to suggest
on inspection we decided to follow.
it does. We don't need another car towed
A
behind to help us get about, as six-to-eight
metres is not much longer than a car anyway
and the new motorhomes are so easy to drive.
We often sit back and listen to people tell
who is the best manufacturer or, better still,
who is the worst; which configuration is better
than another and even statements like, “I'd
never have a front-wheel drive” or similar. I ask
(sometimes not very tactfully) have you owned
or driven what you criticise? Do you know that
approx 83 - 87% of motorhomes in Europe are
front-wheel drive Fiats. Just making statements
without thought, experience or true knowledge
does tend to bias a conversation.
If not maintained properly every motorhome
will have problems. In our experience, every
vendor tries very hard to sell you a vehicle that
is trouble free and will serve you well. In fact
consumer law in Australia demands them to
do so. But nothing is perfect and sometimes
things can and do go wrong. And if you drive
your vehicle into potholes or hit gutters that
cause wheel alignment problems, or in other
ways stress your vehicle, you can't expect the
dealer to just fix things at no cost. It has been
very rare indeed for us to get annoyed by a
dealer for not looking after the product they
sell.
Now, let me talk about the various
motorhomes we’ve had. They have all been
good and served us well. I am very particular
in making sure the body and mechanicals
are always in top condition, whilst my wife
is, shall we say, quite fastidious in her desire
to make sure the inside is looked after. This
arrangement has always worked well for us,
especially when the time has come to look for
the next vehicle. They still look like new when
we sell and we are proud of that.
2000 Winnebago Leisure
Seeker Mazda T4000
e had just finished designing and
were about to build a nice offroad caravan when health issues
intervened. Not knowing what the future held
we decided to buy a motorhome that we could
manage, meaning no truck licence. It ended
up allowing us to travel continuously for 18
months. It was a truck in that it looked like a
truck, used fuel like a truck, and had a 5 speed
gear box and a splitter, giving us 10 speeds –
just like a truck. But it was good and did the
job fantastically.
W
My wife and I shared the driving and we were
very comfortable. There was only one small
external locker and it was packed to the hilt. All
other stuff was packed under the couch inside.
The bed was a double within the Luton peak,
which worked well for us, and although the
bathroom was ‘wet’ style it was not as bad as
people suggested.
Mechanically there was only one major
problem, which in hindsight it still makes me
laugh. The vehicle about four months old and
a real whine started in the gear box when we
were near Broome. Remember, there were no
mobile telephones in that region then! There
weren't even many travellers on the road, and
even fewer motorhomes. Over a short time the
gearbox noise became very loud and some
of the gears could not be selected. We got to
Broome and made a telephone call from the
public phone to “Mazda Help” or whatever
they were called then. “No problems” said the
young lady on the telephone, “take it to your
nearest Mazda dealer and they will fix it up”.
I tried to tell the young lady, who had obviously
never been out of Sydney, that I didn't think
the truck would make it to Darwin. “If it stops,”
she said, “Just give us a call on your mobile
telephone and we will arrange a tow truck for
you.” I tried to tell her that the mobile network
didn't work for practically the next 2000 km we
had to drive. “Well, make a call from a public
telephone,” was her reply. We did drive to
Darwin, scared to go off the road in case the
gearbox seized and we managed to get there
with only first and fifth gears. It took a week for
a new/rebuilt gearbox, caused by a bearing
failure, but was the only mechanical problem
we ever had.
Next issue Kevin concludes, with insights into
the five remaining motorhomes from his private
‘fleet’.
Weinsberg CaraKids
Concept Campers
Could these concepts help
bring RVing to
the masses?
by C.C. Weiss, Gizmag
W
hile families with children make up
a key demographic of the overall
RV industry, the industry focuses its
design and features overwhelmingly on adults.
Features like illuminated wine cabinets and
slide-out espresso machines do little to make
the trip better for junior (though we guess they
do keep mum and dad jovial). Sure the adults
are the ones buying the RV, but as any parent
knows, keeping the little ones happy during
the trip is priority number one. The CaraKids
motorhome and caravan design studies from
Weinsberg were constructed from start to
finish with children in mind, and they feature a
number of smart details that promise to make
RV camping more fun and convenient for the
smallest campers – and, thereby, the adults,
too.
Weinsberg is the entry level camper brand of
the Knaus Tabbert family tree, and Knaus likes
to explore the future of the industry and liven
up trade shows with concept campers. The
two CaraKids designs are among their latest
concepts, this time exploring how the industry's
future could be more kid-friendly. Weinsberg
worked with Germany's Caravaning and
Promobil trade publications, enlisting the help of
readers to identify the types of features they'd
want in a more family-friendly camping vehicle.
It reworked the interiors of both its CaraHome
700 DG motorhome and CaraOne 550 QDK
caravan, showing how its child-focused design
could easily fit the two vehicle types.
Making RVs of all types more child friendly, especially
at the entry level, could encourage more families to hit
the road.
Unlike the outlandish style and features we
often see in the concept cars of auto shows,
the CaraKids' designs follow a much simpler,
more pragmatic approach. Weinsberg and its
partners redesigned very specific parts of the
interiors to create a more child-friendly whole.
The CaraKids designs may or may not prove
marketable, but they're definitely thoughtful
exercises with some interesting ideas, nothing
flashy or outlandish getting in the way.
The Motorhome
W
einsberg's CaraHome 700 DG is
a 24.4-ft-long (7.43-m) C-class
motorhome built on a Fiat Ducato. It
sleeps up to six on a combination of above-cab
double bed, rear double bed and convertible
dining-area bed. It has a kitchen, bathroom and
storage, along with the amenities expected of a
full-fledged motorhome.
The biggest, most noticeable update in the
CaraKids version of the CaraHome is the
extensive use of fall-out protection. Weinsberg
adds stretch side netting to the convertible
dining area/bed and a fold-away wall on the
alcove bed, helping to keep children safe and in
place. The raised rear bed also features fall-out
Many of the ideas are common sense rather than revolutionary. Plastic storage tubs make transferring kids’ things
between home and vehicle much easier, while places like over-cab beds can be made into safe and fun play and
sleeping areas to keep young ones occupied and out of their parents hair!
protection in the form of the robust, slide-up
ladder that makes it easy (and fun) for children
to climb into bed. The ladder even includes
indoor climbing wall-style grips, which kids
should enjoy using to manipulate a few extra
minutes out of the day by taking a slower, more
challenging route up to bed. Once up on the
rear bed, children can keep books and other
belongings close at hand with the integrated
elastic straps on the fabric wall.
Because children don't stretch out as far as
adults, Weinsberg uses the foot of the rear bed
as a storage alcove that houses plastic bins.
The bins make loading/unloading between
house and camper a bit easier than drawers
or cabinets. These type of plastic bins are also
featured on the tall shelving unit just behind the
driver's cab, secured with a hinged quarterdoor.
The dining area keeps children safe, neat and
occupied. Children can keep their ever-soimportant electronic devices topped off using
the two USB ports. The cupholder mounted
to the side wall helps to stop spills, but since
it's unlikely to catch every tipped cup, the table
has a slightly raised, spill-proof edge. Post-trip
clean-up becomes easier with the help of the
washable, zip-away fabric panels on the seats
and seat backs. The bench seating includes
Isofix hardware for affixing car seats.
The bathroom gets its own happy kid-camper
updates, most notably the drop-down
stepping stool built into the wall. The stool
helps boost small children up to toilet level.
Fabric storage bags keep up to six occupants'
personal hygiene items organised, while childsecurity electrical outlets provide added safety
throughout.
The Caravan
A
s its "550" trim level makes clear,
the CaraOne 550 QDK caravan is
shorter and smaller than the CaraKids
motorhome. It features a double front bed,
rear-corner bunks and a convertible dining area
Easily removable and washable seat covers, plus things like a fold down toilet step are simple but highly effective child
friendly improvements.
bed. Weinsberg says it can sleep up to seven
with an added bunk bed and dining-area bed
extension. It includes a kitchen, bathroom,
storage, heat, water, etc.
Not unexpectedly, the CaraKids concept
caravan shares many features with the larger
CaraKids motorhome. Where the caravan
version separates itself from the CaraKids
motorhome is in its bunk section. The dual bunk
area of the rear corner is carved out from the
rest of the cabin, creating a sort of dedicated
child's play and sleep area. The lower bunk
folds up into the wall when not in use, opening
up floor space, and the ladder/lower bunk fallout protector swings out to serve as a divider
door. The plastic storage bins on the floor below
the bunks have cushioned tops to double as
comfy chairs, and children can use the floor
space for play. There's also a flip-up bedside
table and wall-mounted chalkboard. Each of the
two bunks has its own USB port and fabric wall
with elastic straps.
The CaraKids caravan study includes a
lockable kitchen for keeping dangerous
cleaners and chemicals safely out of
reach, child-safety electrical sockets and a
raised front bed designed for easier nappy
changes. The front bed area also includes
an under-bed storage cabinet with external
access, designed with strollers in mind,
and a bedside cabinet designed for baby
accessory organisation.
To build, or not to build
G
iven that the CaraKids designs are
just concepts, it's not clear if any
of their features will see production
or how much they'll cost. The upgrades do
seem smart and straightforward enough as
to at least be offered as options. The kidfriendly elements and bright colours would
surely make the idea of a long, hot, bumpy
family road trip much more enticing to
children of all ages. According to Promobil,
whose word we're inclined to take since it
was integral in the creation of the CaraKids
concepts, Weinsberg said that the CaraKids
feature package would add about €2,500
($3500) to the price of the CaraHome 700
DG.
iMotorhome wonders if any local
manufactures might pick up and run
with some of these ideas?
Spill resistant table edging, fall-out barriers and
child-sized desks that can even include a blackboard
are simple, innovative ideas.
Tips to make your
life more enjoyable
in the great
outdoors…
by Allan Whiting,
outbacktravelaustralia.com.au
Keeping the right insect sprays and repellents on hand is
essential to ensure you enjoy your travels – wherever they
might take you.
O
ne of the greatest health risks in the
bush is illness caused by poor hygiene.
We have a camp rule that we never
touch food or eating utensils without washing
our hands, so we have a pump-action bottle of
waterless hand-wash and keep it near the food
prep area. There’s another bottle in a pocket of
the hold-all between the car seats and a small
flip-top bottle in each toilet kit.
We use disposable dish cloths as they dry out
quickly after use and can be burnt or thrown in
the bin after a couple of uses. Tea towels are
laundered as normal with a capful of disinfectant
added to the washing water. Chopping boards
are wiped down with anti-bacterial spray after
each use and are left to dry thoroughly before
packing away.
Personal Hygiene
(when water is in short supply)
T
here’s nothing quite like a shower at the
end of a hot day in the dusty Outback,
but when water supplies are scarce,
conserving water for drinking becomes much
more important.
Be selective with the brands you choose to look after you in the bush and buy on quality rather than price.
But that doesn’t mean you have to be smelly! A
full body wipe down with baby wipes combined
with a very small bowl of mildly soapy water is all
that’s required to keep clean.
Hair washing is usually left until a shower is
available and is the only real complaint most of
the girls have when they can’t shower, but it’s
not all that bad. We take a dip whenever the
opportunity arises.
Sunburn
S
pending more time outdoors means you
need to protect your skin from burning.
Apply a 30+ protection sunscreen and
re-apply regularly. Look for sunscreen that dries
on your skin after rubbing in and doesn’t make
you feel sticky – that’s important in a hot, humid
climate. Skin can be further protected by wearing
UV protection clothing, available from most
adventure sports stores. Wear a broad brimmed
hat to keep the sun off your face and neck. A pair
of good quality sunglasses will help protect your
eyes.
Flies
F
lies are very persistent in the bush. They’re
out as soon as the sun gets up in the
morning and don’t go away until the sun
goes down. The best deterrent we’ve found
so far is a product called Nature’s Botanical
– Rosemary & Cedarwood Oils in Natural
Crème. The fragrance is similar to that of Vicks
VapoRub – and the flies don’t like it at all. They’ll
still buzz around you, but if they do land on skin
treated with the crème, they leave in a hurry. We
haven’t had to wear fly veils since we started
using it.
Other Insects
D
engue Fever and Ross River viruses
are spread by mosquitoes and it’s
important to protect yourself and your
family from becoming infected. Bites from
mosquitoes, sand flies and midges can be
extremely itchy and irritating. Scratching can
cause bites to become infected; in some cases
people can have a severe allergic reaction
When you're a long way
from home staying healthy
is essential. Common
sense hygiene procedures
and the right selection of
preventative measures and
treatments will keep you on
the right track.
requiring medical attention. If you do get
stung by mozzies, sandflies or midges, antihistamines (available from chemists) can provide
relief. Anti-histamine tablets are an essential first
aid kit inclusion.
A non-drug insect-bite treatment is the
‘Mosquito Click’. We’ve had success using
one for mosquito and sand fly bites. They’re
also available from chemists for around $20.
RID (roll on, pump or aerosol spray) and
Bushman’s Water Resistant (80% DEET
Heavy Duty) personal insect repellents are
effective against biting insects, mosquitoes,
sandflies, midges, ticks, leeches and march
flies. Apply repellent before you get bitten, even
if you think there’s no need to.
If you’re out camping pack a can of insecticide
and spray it inside your tent before you go to
bed each night. Make sure to keep your tent
‘door’ zipped closed as much as possible. A
little common sense goes a long way in the
bush, so before you head off into it take time
to make sure you’re properly equipped – then
enjoy!
Snap
Send
Solve.
Simple!
Snap a pic, send
the details and solve
a problem. It really is
that easy…
By Emily Barker
T
here are some apps that stand out from
the rest simply due to their sheer brilliance,
Snap Send Solve is without a doubt one of
these shining stars of the technological revolution.
Its creators have considered a very common
problem and developed a solution so ingenious it
has to be tried to be believed. It’s free, incredibly
easy to use and is creating real change – literally
at street level. Snap Send Solve is a free app for
your iPhone or Android device that lets you report
issues and provide feedback to your local council
or service provider in under 30 seconds, Australia
wide.
Ring, Ring…
A
nyone who has ever tried to contact their
local council regarding any problematic
issues will understand this process can
be a little ‘hit and miss’ at the best of times. And
a frustrating nightmare at others. The role of
Snap Send Solve is to facilitate a convenient and
efficient way to document and report incidents
requiring repair, attention or service to the
relevant authorities, including local government
and infrastructure providers. The beauty of this
app is the simple four-step reporting process,
which removes the need for lengthy phone calls,
confusing department transfers and a level of
personal involvement that casual bystanders
shouldn’t have to have.
Snap!
U
sing your smart phone or camera
equipped device you simply take a photo
of the incident, be it a damaged sign,
rubbish dumped in the bush, pot holes, graffiti,
dirty restrooms, a burst water main, overflowing
rubbish bins, a dangerous section of pavement,
fallen tree or any other public space issues of
concern. You then enter the address, which is
incredibly simple as the app works out where you
are by utilising GPS, or (now this is a little scary)
if you take a photo of an incident and send it at
a later date, the location will be automatically
displayed, no need for writing down addresses.
Become a citizen warrior and help bring problems of all
types to the attention of the relevant local authorities.
You then add incident details by selecting
the appropriate category, add any additional
notes if required, and then the entire report
is sent directly to the correct contact who
manages incidents within that particular area,
as predetermined by the app. It’s all very
automated, and anonymous too, although
you can choose to include personal contact
details should you wish to follow the matter
up.
This app utilises mobile technology at its best.
Its creators Outware Mobile are an award
winning Australian owned app development
company at the forefront of technology. This
translates into a highly advanced application
free of bugs, glitches and importantly – adds!
Regardless of the size of the issue you can
quickly and easily submit a report directly to
the relevant channel, bypassing any drama or
confusion. Glass on a footpath or a broken
swing at a playground; issues we encounter
every day that may previously have been too
inconsequential or troublesome to report
are now confidently and conveniently dealt
with. By all reports councils are positively
embracing this streamlined technology
and recognising the importance of such
community input within their boundaries.
Optimised for smartphones, this app weighs
in at only 12.4 MB making it a light weight
addition to any device. Reports can be
submitted with or without images and the
app can also be used to submit general
requests, concerns or questions, including
positive feedback and comments regarding
an area and its facilities. Over all this app
is an incredibly useful tool, especially
for travellers who might rely upon public
facilities. As one Council said, “We can’t fix
what we don’t know is broken!”
Fast Facts:
Name: Snap Send Solve
by Outware Mobile
Cost: Free
Platforms: iOS and Android
Size: 12.4 MB
the rear lounge, plus there’s an optional over-cab
bed if you need to sleep four.
T
he new Winnebago Airlie will grace next
issue’s cover and it will be interesting to
see what roadtest guru Malcolm makes of
it. Built on the popular Fiat Ducato this two berth
design features a large U-shaped lounge with
wraparound windows at the rear that’s separated
from the kitchen and dinette up-front by shower
and toilet cubicles on opposite sides of the aisle.
Its party trick is an electric roll-down bed above
March 06-08
MAR
06-08
Having simply run out of room this time we'll
also bring you the travel story behind this issue’s
mega touring test of the Paradise Integrity SL.
That's Adelaide to the Gold Coast via Broken Hill
– and we promise only one emu photo. The story
will include some terrific (and one rather ordinary)
caravan parks, costs, distances and a whole lot
more. But only one emu.
Issue 68 will be out on 21 March. Until then we
hope you enjoy this issue and invite you to join
Friends
our more than 22,000 Facebook
and Twitter
followers to share the laughs,
fun and news. See you in two weeks!
March 18-22
06-08
MAR
18-22
APR
April 11-19
11-19
Gold Coast Caravan &
Camping Expo
Perth Caravan &
Camping Show
Sydney Caravan, Camping
& Holiday Supershow
Metricon Stadium
Nerang-Broadbeach Rd
Carrara. Qld. 4211
r Open 9:30-5:00 daily
r Parking: $5
r Adults: $10
r Seniors: $8
r Kids: School age free
with adult
Claremont Showgrounds
Claremont. WA. 6010
r Open 9:30-5:30 daily
(2 pm last day)
r Parking: $5
r Adults: $19.50
r Seniors: $13
r Kids: Free U 16 years
Rosehill Racecourse, James
Ruse Dr, Rosehill. NSW. 2142
r Open 10:30-5:00 daily
(4 pm last day)
r Parking: $5
r Adults: $25
r Seniors: $20
r Kids: Free U 16 free
with adult
Visit Website
Visit Website
Visit Website
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Click for
Google Maps
Click for
Google Maps
Know of a local or regional show coming up that attracts and promotes
motorhomes, campervans and the great RV lifestyle in general?
Drop us a line at
[email protected] and we’ll happily promote
it in this calendar.