Sunliner`s compact 4X4 Ranger packs a powerful punch…

Transcription

iMotorhome
magazine
Issue 73: Jun 06 2015
Power
Ranger
because getting there is half the fun...
Win!
Travel!
Alice Springs’ secret desert garden…
Longtermer Update
How ‘our’ Horizon Casuarina is faring!
Technical!
A quick look at A-frame towing…
$50 for the!
best letter
Sunliner’s
compact 4X4
Ranger packs a
powerful punch…
Relax in Paradise
Australia’s Best Quality Motorhomes
• Outstanding value for
money, competitively
priced from $158,000.
• Unrivalled Safety including
rollover protection,
auto-locking cabinetry
and superior appliance
mounting systems.
• Industry’s longest & most
comprehensive motorhome
warranty.
• Built for Australian conditions.
• Models available with or without slide-outs.
• Superior finish with stylish new contoured exterior.
• Patented moulded bins for maximum storage capacity.
• Outstanding road handling & ride comfort.
• Genuine island queen beds and huge wardrobes.
• Spacious rear ensuites with separate toilet & shower.
• Market leading layouts & lifestyle features.
• Full living area slide-outs providing superior living space.
• Proven 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
About iMotorhome | 3
iMotorhome eMagazine is published twice monthly and available by free subscription
from www.imotorhome.com.au.
Your letters and contributions are always welcome!
Contributors
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Jess Ciampa, Emily Barker,
Elizabeth & Helmut Mueller
Published by iMotorhome
Design and Production
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
W: www.imotorhome.com.au
Editorial
Advertising
Advertising Manager
Keith Smyth
M: 0408 315 288
Publisher/Managing Editor
T: 03 9579 3079
Richard Robertson
T: 0414 604 368
Roadtest Editor
Malcolm Street
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On my mind | 5
Warranty Wonderings…
The subject of imported recreational vehicles is an
emotive one. On one hand is the desire to protect
local industry and on the other is the desire for a
wider range of choices. People have been privately
importing RVs of all shapes and sizes for years, but
it’s only in recent times factory-new models have
appeared.
On the motorhome front, brands like Swift and Auto
Trail are seeking to establish themselves locally.
Both offer competitively priced, fully imported Fiat
Ducato-based motorhomes; many with features and
innovations unavailable in Australia. The companies
are major players in the UK and each produces more
motorhomes annually than all Australian companies
do, combined. Both are also offering five year
warranties on their Fiat Ducatos – locally built Fiat
motorhomes have a three year warranty – and it’s
become a serious bone of contention.
Fiat Australia – always difficult to get information from
– seems to have been playing hardball with these
importers (and probably others) by initially saying it
wouldn’t honour warranty claims on fully imported
Ducatos. That position appears to have softened,
but Fiat needs to clarify its position in the interests of
consumers. The sticking point (at least in the early
days) seems to be that Fiat Australia makes no money
on imported motorhomes because it doesn’t supply
the base vehicle. Why that would affect its decision to
honour warranties is mystifying, especially considering
Fiat Australia is now an outpost of Fiat head office and
no longer just an importer.
Owners of Swift and Auto Trail models sold in the
UK are covered by what’s termed a Tourist Warranty
when they travel to Europe or beyond. iMotorhome
has been told categorically by Auto Trail that its UK
head office pays Fiat in Italy an additional amount to
ensure Australian delivered motorhomes are covered
for five years. We believe the same is true with Swift.
Fiat Australia says the vehicles are only covered by
a two year Tourist Warranty but that it is working to
resolve the situation. Fiat Australia also said we’re best
not to mention the five year warranty, although it didn’t
say whose interest that was protecting.
The bottom line? Consumers need a quick and
concrete resolution to this situation and Fiat Australia
needs to clarify the situation – one way or the other.
Watch this space!
Come and meet us!
We’re holding our inaugural iMotorhome get together
on 11-13 September! We’ve booked out the historic
Joadja Town site, nestled deep in a valley on the
western fringe of the NSW Southern Highlands. It’s
also home to the new Joadja Whiskey Distillery, which
is certainly a whole attraction in it’s own right, although
it’s early days yet for whisky production. This is a small
and informal get together limited by space to about
20 motorhomes, but will include a guided tour of the
remains of the 19th century town and oil shale refinery,
plus the distillery, on the Saturday afternoon.
A highlight will be a Spanish tapas dinner on the
Saturday night, as Joadja’s owners Valero and Elisa
are Spanish Australians, and it should be an attraction
in its own right! The weekend includes two night’s stay
(Friday/Saturday) and you can stay Sunday night if
desired for a nominal fee. See the ad on page 17
for full details and book early. See you there!
Richard
6 | Content
3
About Us
9
Resources
5
On my Mind
11
On your Mind
26
Marketplace
Who we are, where and other legal stuff
Find back issues and more on
our website
Warranty Wonderings…
Share your thoughts for the chance to
win $50!
16
News
28
Freedom Camping
30
Day Test: Sunliner Ranger 4X4
44
Reader Report
48
Travel – Olive Pink
62
Technical: Towing The Line
64
Longtermer: Horizon Casuarina
68
Mobile Tech
What’s happening in the wider RV world and beyond
The latest Marketplace offers
A monthly roundup on free camping, from the Free Choice Camping people
Power Ranger – Malcolm Street gets to know Sunliner’s smallest coachbuilt
My Motorhome – A custom Toyota HiAce
An oasis near the heart of Alice Springs!
54
Short Break – Marulan
Take a meridian trip back in time…
A quick look at A-Frame towing basics
A report card on our longterm Horizon Casuarina
App Review – Parkfinder WA
72
Next Issue
What’s coming up and which shows
are on soon!
www.sydneyrv.com.au
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resources
iMotorhome
Resources | 9
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Dethleffs ‘baby’ A-class is
something to ogle at…
Review and images by Malcolm Street
Reader
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On your mind | 11
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
More Fiat Ideas!
Adding to the discussion about the Fiat not having
drink holders I submit photos of my solution. I
procured a suitable size plastic container and
attached two pieces of PVC piping that were
the right size for our drink bottles. It sits nicely
between our seats and is easy to remove to swivel
the seats. An added bonus is that it allows us
to carry essential items such as Camps 8 book,
maps, computer tablet etc. We have the Fiatfitted carpet in the front and it doesn't move at all.
People who don't have the carpet might need to
attach something to the base of the container just
in case it moves. Hope others might find this a
suitable solution.
Regards, Roger & Julie.
the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter
each issue with $50 to help you on your way.
Thanks for sharing your innovative idea, I’m sure it
will give fellow readers even more to think about.
Please accept this issue’s $50 prize for your
efforts, which could possibly go towards a colourcoded container to match your carpet!
Try Murray Town
Hi! In regards to your comments about Melrose
in South Australia, I am just wondering if you
know about Murray Town? This friendly little place
is not far from Melrose (about 15 km south) and
it has powered and unpowered sites. There are
clean toilets and showers and I can vouch for the
fact that the locals are very friendly! The old pub
has recently opened up into a coffee shop but I'm
not sure what that is like. If you were thinking of
going to Melrose give Murray Town a try instead.
Cheers, Sharon.
Thanks Sharon, that’s good to know and I’m
aways happy to spread the word about RV
Friendly towns. Safe travels and please let me
know if you come across any other worth-while
little spots. Let me send you a runner’s-up prize
of a terrific little hand-tooled leather iMotorhome
notebook to make note of them in!
12 | On your mind
Water Thoughts
Hi Richard. Don’t know if this would work or
help, but I was thinking about the amount of grey
water carried around Australia in motor homes,
caravans, etc. Maybe instead of it been dumped it
could be used in drought areas as extra water for
gardens, laying dust, washing vehicles and so on?
Thanks for your great magazine, I look forward
every fort-night. Its an excellent read. I don't have
a motorhome nor have I even been in one, but I
live in hope!
G’day Ray and thanks for writing. Many caravan
parks and campsites are happy to let people run
their grey water hoses onto the grass or other
needy areas, but it would be good if Councils
in dry parts of the country could organise a
community holding tank or similar – perhaps next
to a dump point – where such water could be
collected. Any takers out there?
Kind Regards, Ray.
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A passion for quality and an eye for detail
Every Horizon motorhome is built to perfection by a team of
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14 | On your mind
Scooting along…
The E-Twow (pronounced E2) is the scooter
we use and love, but it wasn't easy to find. In
fact there were none in Australia and I had to
import two from Shanghai. They seemed to
attract a lot of attention where ever we went
and I couldn't count how many times I was
asked, "Where did you get that scooter?”.
The following is an editorial submission
that was easiest to include in this issue’s
Letters section. Mark is an advertiser in
our Marketplace Directory, so please keep
that in mind when reading. Hopefully we’ll
be able to bring you a product review to
back up his fun-sounding claims – Mrs
iMotorhome is particularly keen!
“G’day Richard, my name is Mark and I've had
an interest in scooters since I was able to ride
a bike. I love their portability and simplicity, plus
they’re a joy to ride. For quite some time my
wife Karen and I have taken our adult version
kick scooters into town to explore the walking
trails and intercity lanes that cars can never
reach. You can cover so much more distance
than walking and still get the benefits of being
in the fresh air!
In the last few years technology has taken my
passion to the next level by adding an electric
hub motor and battery system to the humble
scooter. This has increased the distance of our
exploration to almost that of a car, but without
sweating it out on a bike! We regularly load our
electric scooters into the boot of our car and
travel to regional townships to explore things
you don't see by car and can't get to, at least
not quickly or easily enough, when walking.
After endless testing of the quality and
performance I decided to get Australian
Government approval to import them for sale
here. Modifications were made to meet our
stringent road rules so they now meet all the
standards for our country.
The E-Twow has a range of up to 40 km and
travels up to 25 km/h. Most of the time we
just manually kick along, enjoying the glide
and increased fitness. Sometimes we find
our-selves at the end of a long road and the
electric power is certainly welcome! If it's hot,
traveling on power lets you relax and cool
down in the breeze!
The scooter weighs only 10.8 kg and when
folded you can put it over your shoulder like a
bag. I've even gone into town on a busy train
with the E-Twow on my lap without problems
Needless to say they're a great alternative to
bikes and don't need racks to hang off the
back of a vehicle.
If you’re interested in giving this new
revolution of mobility a go, give me a call on
0412027330. We are based in Adelaide but
can deliver anywhere. Check out the official
web page www.e-twow.com too.
16 | News
Reverse Alert
R
everse Alert Australia Pty Ltd has
announced the release of a world
first aftermarket automatic braking
system. The technology, called Reverse Alert,
is a unique approach to preventing reversing
related accidents and was invented in South
East Qld.
“What makes the technology unique is that
the system can be fitted to any vehicle new
or old and does not conflict with Australian
Design Rules. The system has been designed
to automatically apply the brake when the
rear sensors detect an object or person.
This is achieved through the use of a clamp
that is attached to the brake pedal. The
clamp pulls the brake, stopping the vehicle
automatically without driver input when the
rear sensors detect an object at specific
distances,” business manager Ian Costelloe
told iMotorhome. He said he believes the
technology can greatly reduce the number of
children being injured by reversing vehicles, as
well as reduce carpark and campsite reversing
accidents.
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magazine
iMotorhome
We’ve Booked Out The Valley!
Date:11-13 September 2015
Location: Joadja Creek
Heritage Site, NSW.
Click for
Google Maps
Cost:$59 per person
What’s Included?
• Entry fee
• 2-nights non-powered camping (Fri/Sat)
with basic facilities available
The inaugural iMotorhome get-together is being
held at one of Australia’s most interesting
historical sites – Joadja Creek. Set deep in a
valley on the western fringe of the Southern
Highlands of NSW, this tranquil and
picturesque location was once a thriving
industrial centre and township, complete with
its own railway.
Come and meet the iMotorhome team,
enjoy a guided site tour, a tour of the recently
completed Joadja Whisky Distillery and delight
in an authentic Spanish tapas dinner, followed
by a few drinks by the camp fire!
We’ve booked out the valley for the weekend,
but space limited to about 20 motorhomes,
so book early and secure your spot!
• Guided historic site tour by the owner
• Tour of Joadja Whisky Distillery
• Spanish tapas dinner on Saturday night
Extras
Extra night (Sun): $6 per person
Beer with dinner: $5 each
Wine with dinner: $6 glass
Bookings
Email [email protected] with your
name and contact details and we’ll put you on
the list. Payment via EFT required to confirm
booking. Space is limited so contact us today!
Fine Print (please read):
1: Due to licensing restrictions BYO is not available with the Saturday night dinner, but okay at other times (like around the camp fire!).
2: Access is via several kilometres of dirt road. The final 2 km can be tricky after heavy rain and we reserve the right to reschedule or
cancel the event due to weather conditions. In either case a full refund would be offered.
3: Access isn’t recommended for coach-sized motorhomes, but anything up to about 9 m will be fine.
18 | News
Baintech PowerTop
P
ower specialists Baintech has introduced a new
portable power system – the PowerTop – and it
offers some unique features. It’s designed more for
campers, boaties and those who need the flexibility of a
portable system. Built around a rechargeable 100 AH gel
battery, the PowerTop is compact and comes with five
outlets that suit a wide range of devices. These include
two 12 V cigarette sockets, an Engel fridge socket, a USB
socket and Baintech’s new and exclusive LockOn socket,
which it claims will stay connected on the roughest roads.
The PowerTop also comes with an LCD volt meter with low volt alarm, LED operations panel,
a resettable thermal breaker and a large on/off switch. It also comes with three Anderson Plug
charging connectors, for AC, DC and solar. Price is $599 and you can find more details and your
nearest stockist on their website, or by calling 1300 224 683
Portable Dog Run
L
ooking for something to keep your
pet safe and nearby, but give it a bit of
freedom whilst motorhoming or Camping?
This might be for you. A press release reads:
Talos Products by Omega Pacific presents the
first packable, portable dog run that can be
taken anywhere and sets up in minutes between
a pair of trees, posts or any other sturdy anchor
points. The K9 Sky-Trak provides your dog up
to 40 feet of roaming space while still securely
leashed and legal in parks, campgrounds, rest
stops or almost anywhere. Each kit comes
with 50 feet of high-visibility poly cord, a pair of
snap-link connectors, a tensioning cleat, a trolley
pulley and a leash – everything you need to let
your pet roam while safely tethered. The system
has built-in dynamic tensioning to prevent your
dog from being jerked harshly if they run to the
end of the line. Sets up in just a couple minutes
and can be stowed in the included tote bag that
is roomy enough to contain a collapsible water
bowl (included) or treats and favourite toys (not
included).
Available from Talos Products website or
Amazon for US$39.95 plus shipping.
News | 19
Win a Motorhome Holiday!
A
vida RV is offering you the chance to win a 10-day holiday in one of its new motorhomes.
To enter just ‘Like’ the Avida RV Facebook page, share it and then enter your details on
their website by clicking HERE. The competition runs until late December, so good luck!
Product Safety Recalls
T
he Australian Competition & Consumer Commission
has a website for Product Safety Recalls in
Australia. It covers everything from cars to camping
equipment, fashion and clothing to kids toys. It also has a
section on caravans and motorhomes. If you’re in the
market for a used RV it’s well worth checking out to see if
your intended purchase is listed.
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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,
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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
20 | News
Queensland Rego Charges Increasing
A
ccording to an ABC report, “Queensland, already the most expensive place in Australia
to own a car, will raise vehicle registration fees again on July 1, with the State Opposition
accusing the Government of treating motorists as cash cows.”
The fees will rise at more than twice the rate of inflation, and come on top of a 3.5 per cent rise in
Queensland driver's licence fees due to take effect on July 1, according to the RACQ.
Registration of a four-cylinder car is set to rise by about $12, a six-cylinder car will go up by about
$17, while an eight-cylinder car will rise by $23. It will take registration for four-cylinder cars from
$328.90 to $340.40, six-cylinder cars from $492.30 to $509.50 and seven or eight-cylinder cars
from $669.80 to $693.25, excluding insurance costs.
Earlier this week before the rise was announced, the RACQ told the ABC that Queensland was
already the most expensive state in Australia in which to own a car. To read more click HERE.
News | 21
Murgon Success!
while. Now Murgon is the sort of town that you
often drive through when going from one major
centre to another, so the plan was ambitious
and of course had some opposition from
certain sectors of the accommodation industry.
A
n opinion piece from Free Choice
Camping: Once upon a time there
was a small country town in the South
Burnett which like all country towns has seen
its ups and downs and lost its major employer
and industry. It had a small council-owned
caravan park that over time became less viable
and eventually closed, but the Businessmen’s
Association was determined to keep it open
as a free park to encourage tourists to stay a
Well we have just received an email advising
that the freedom camp is working, they ask
freedom campers to place their receipts
from local spending in a box at the park
and it is cleared weekly. Last week it was
chockers, with over $4500 in receipts spent
with businesses in the town. We congratulate
Murgon for its forward thinking and trust that
the partnership between the town and RV
travellers will continue to flourish for the benefit
of all. Next time we all pass thought it might
pay to linger for 48 hours and discover what
the town has to offer.
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 is more to your liking. Maybe a spot of fishing at
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
12 DES $9.99
ONLY
For more information visit
www.ebooktraveller.com.au
22 | News
Marketplace Directory Updates
D
on’t forget, if you’re looking for parts,
service, accessories or a myriad of
other information – including links to
Australia’s top motorhome manufacturers and
dealers – you can find it all in the iMotorhome
Marketplace Directory. Here’s a selection
of excellent businesses that help keep this
magazine going. By supporting them and the
other businesses in our Marketplace Directory
you help keep iMotorhome arriving in your
inbox!
Active Campers
Our slide-on campers are a unique, light
weight and well-crafted solution designed to
fit all single, 1½ and some dual cab utes. The
aerodynamic profile is ideal for efficient travel
and true off road performance. The roof lifts
easily and quickly, creating a spacious and
practical interior.
Bonetti Campers
Bonetti Campers imports Mondo-Pickup
slide-on camper "Musica" and shortly, the
"Carbonio" a lightweight carbon fibre shell.
Established 2012 by Stefano, former KEA
Campers Manager. Purchasing the KEA
Parts stock, he is the only KEA parts stockist
in Australia. The main business is KEA
Camper repairs, refurbishing, conversions and
manufacturing.
News | 23
Marketplace Directory Updates
Motor Homes International
Robert’s RV World
Based on the proven Mercedes Benz Sprinter
extra long, the Columbus motorhome by Motor
Homes International is a very comfortable
motorhome for two people. The most storage
of any van based motorhome. No structural
changes to the body. The best Sprinter based
conversion anywhere! Visit our website for 50
photos.
Robert’s RV World has the largest undercover
motorhome showroom in the Southern
Hemisphere, where browsing is always easy
and comfortable. With our newly renovated
service department we can fit all available
accessories and offer motorhome servicing
as well as insurance repairs. Very proud to be
Avida Dealer of the Year 2010.
Parkland Mazda
Winjana RV
Parkland RV is the official dealer for Avida
Motorhomes, Crossroads RV and Opal
Caravans in Western Australia. We also stock
a range of quality used motorhomes and
campervans. Our modern service department
maintains and repairs all types of recreational
vehicles. When you’re in WA make sure you
visit us!
Winjana RV specialises in quality, small and
affordable 5th wheelers. Vans built in Australia,
to suit Australian conditions. The ‘Cattai 760’
hybrid van is the first in Australia. Based in
Toowoomba, Queensland, our factory is open
to visit. Vans start from $67,500 fitted. Custombuild options. Custom-built vans and ‘off-road’
vans available.
24 | News
Monto Success!
T
he Monto, Qld, community and business people, who rallied together under the banner of
‘Monto Magic’ have secured a lease over the railway yards at the bottom end of the Main
Street for a 72 hr low cost rest area for self-contained units.
“We are now looking for a caretaker to look after the area, mow and keep it clean and collect
the overnight fee, which goes towards keeping the area clean and tidy. After receiving all the bad
publicity early last year we are moving forward at a very fast rate. This is a very friendly town to
any one that likes to stop and talk,” said local spokesman John Mac Elroy.” Anyone interested in
the position please contact him on 0429 661 075.
Expedition Vehicles
LEAVE THE OTHERS BEHIND GO WHERE THE OTHERS CAN’T GO, DO WHAT THE OTHERS CAN’T DO
COMPACT, LIGHTWEIGHT
FIFTH WHEELERS
EXPEDITION VEHICLES
DEMOUNTABLE PODS
Luxurious interiors
Flexible floorplans,
On and off road models
CUSTOM BUILT
BUY FACTORY DIRECT AND SAVE
222 Governor Road Braeside VIC 3195 Ph: 03 9588 0077
www.trailblazersrv.com
[email protected]
News | 25
On Facebook:
T
his post appeared recently on Trakka’s Facebook page, following the first anniversary of
the tragic passing of company co-founder Sally Berry.
Black Dog Institute is leading the way in suicide prevention. Their aim is to save lives and
prevent the grief that suicide inflicts on families. It is something we feel strongly about and hold very
close to our hearts here at Trakka. We have made a donation and urge you to read the post below.
We are sharing Trakka co-founder Sal's story to educate and empower individuals and families. We
want to open up conversation around suicide and remove the stigma from a very permanent effect
of mental illness.
"Sal was our mum, a wife and a successful business owner. She was an organiser, a perfectionist
and a worrier, but such fun – bubbly, adventurous and always trying new things. She was the
most selfless person you could meet, always ensuring we, her family, were happy, healthy and well
looked after. Fiercely independent, she never wanted to let anyone know when she was struggling
or having ‘lows’.”
“We found out about mum’s death on Mother’s Day 2014. She would have felt at peace knowing
we were all safe and together that day for support. Even in the last moments of her life, we would
have been at the forefront of her mind.”
“We crave not having to lower our voices when we mention ‘suicide’ as to why Sal is no longer
here. Removing the stigma around suicide and ensuring families have the proper support to talk
about it, is so important. By sharing our story, we want to ‘break the cycle’ to talk about what
happened. We want to empower other families to talk and not feel ashamed.”
We'd like to thank Sal's family, David, Alex, Olivia and Alister for allowing us to share their story and
helping us to break down the stigma. To read more about Sal and Black Dog Institute’s work in
suicide prevention click HERE. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing distress and needs
urgent assistance, please reach out to your GP, family and friends or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
26 | iMotorhome Marketplace
Parkland RV Centre
Roberts RV World
RV Specialists
Parkland RV is the official dealer
for Avida Motorhomes, Crossroads
RV and Opal Caravans in WA. We
stock quality used RVs and our
modern service department can
look after everything.
An official Avida motorhome
dealer, with more than 50 new
motorhomes in the largest
undercover RV showroom in the
Southern Hemisphere. Our service
department is here for all your
needs too.
Australia’s leading fifth wheelers,
designed here in Australia and
built to suit our demanding
conditions. Fifth wheelers from
24’ to 36’ available.
Call 02 4953 7141 for information!
T: (08) 9493 7933
W: parklandrv.com.au
T: 1800 253 136
W: robertsrv.com.au
T: (02) 4953 7141
W: summerliferv.com.au
Airbag Man
Battery Traders
Super Store
Taronga
Western Plains Zoo
We design and manufacture air
suspension kits for all types of
vehicles including motorhomes.
Easy to install they let you ‘level up’
for stability and safety.
Batteries, solar panels, inverters,
alternators and all electrical parts
including cables and switches for
your motorhome! We can find and
fix all electrical faults and are 12 V
power specialists.
Visit our world famous 300 ha open
range sanctuary, home to some of the
most exotic and endangered animals
on earth. Explore by foot, bike, electric
cart or in your motorhome!
T: 1800 AIRBAG
W: airbagman.com.au
T: (07) 3209 3144
W: batterytraders.com.au
T: (02) 6881 1400
W: taronga.org.au
iTech World
Wellington Shire
Australia’s leading solar power
and satellite TV manufacturers! We
stock the revolutionary In Flex and
Mini Flex panels, Plus our Complete
Traveler Satellite TV package is
perfect for motorhomes.
In the heart of Victoria’s Gippsland
region. Come and enjoy our natural
beauty, famous lakes, High Country
and expansive beaches. Find
‘Experience 40 Great Things to Do’
on our website too!
T: 1300 483 249
W: itechworld.com.au
T: (03) 5144 1108
W: tourismwellington.com.au
Bony Mountain
Folk Festival
This great Aussie festival in the bush
is on again, featuring the legendary
Murphy’s Pigs! Many other great
artists, a Bush Poets breakfast, billy tea,
damper, great tucker – don’t miss it!
bonymountainfolkfestival.com
iMotorhome Marketplace | 27
Southern Spirit
Campervans
FLEXIBLE STORAGE SYSTEMS
FOR YOUR CAMPERVAN OR
MOTORHOME
Full & part fitouts
Hitop, Poptop and Reimo roofs
True custommade conversions
Repairs & improvements
BYO van from Hiace to Sprinter
Store those additional items up and out of
the way using our adjustable, transportable
and modular storage system!
www.skytracks.com.au
The Duvalay memory foam
sleeping system - for those
who enjoy a comfortable
nights sleep but hate making
the bed. All the comforts
of home while you explore
the extraordinary! To order
simply call (08) 9336 7714
or email [email protected]
www.duvalay.com.au
Over 11 years cover manufacturing experience Australia wide.Free Measure & Quote Call in Factory 1:354 Mons Road Forest Glen : Sunshine Coast Queensland PH-‐1300 304 332/0754564818 www.caravancovers.com.au [email protected] Qld Stockist of Duvalay. The E-Twow
Electric scooter for adults
LATEST TECHNOLOGY FOR RV OWNERS
The alternative to a bike!!
25km/h with a
range of 40km
in ideal
conditions!
Super light
too at 10.8kg
•
•
•
•
•
•
More Versatile Than Any Other RV
Camp Anywhere - It’s Self Contained
Large Bathroom With Shower & Toilet
Easy To Operate With Electric Jacks
Models For Single, Extra & Dual Cabs
Plus! Famous Ozcape Quality & Support
Folds away
quite compact
for small
storage
To ﬁnd out
more call Mark on 0412027330 or email
[email protected]
www.e-twow.com
1
Nomadic Solutions
hitches fully ADR compliant
no swaying
increased towing safety
easy reversing
offroad vans available
5th wheeler specialist
Nomadic Solutions - the
original, quality constructed
‘lifestyletable™’ that is easily
attached to the side of your
motorhome. Now available in ‘mill
finish’ for custom painting.
T: (02) 9011 8144
W: nomadicsolutions.com.au
Tiffin Motorhomes
America’s favourite motorhome is
now available in Australia! Tiffin
Motorhomes Australia is proud to
offer the Allegro Breeze 32 to the
Australian market. Click through to
find out why they’re fast becoming
Australia’s favourite too!
T: 0411 616 617
W: tiffinmotorhomes.com.au
28 | Feature
Freedom Camping
O
ur 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 May – C
IAWA Launches its own RV Friendly
Town scheme
In the past the Caravan Industry Association of
Western Australia (CIAWA) has been EXTREMELY
anti anything to do with freedom camping and
has launched numerous attacks on our freedom
of choice. This new PR blurb says "CIAWA have
developed a set of criteria to allow any town,
community or destination to promote itself as a
destination that Welcomes Recreational Vehicles.”
We await with great interest the details of the "set of
criteria" to see if it truly is RV friendly or just another
effort by the CIAWA to increase its protectionism
of its own industry. We truly hope this is a genuine
effort on behalf of the CIAWA but experience tells us
to welcome it with caution.
1 May – " Caravan and Camping Industry has
'reinvented' itself"
And we have been lead to believe the industry
was in dire straits caused by freedom camping if
we listen to lobby's presentations to government
inquiries, etc. This is an interesting article in
Caravanning News
2 May – T
hings are moving along in
Warrnambool
"The contentious issue of free camping by
vanpackers and grey nomads could be thrown open
for community debate at a forum suggested in a
Warrnambool City Council report. If the proposal
gets the thumbs up from councillors at their monthly
meeting Monday night, the forum results would help
shape a new policy document."
3 May – Geraldton
Sometimes it can become frustrating dealing
with governments/councils, etc, and the long,
drawn out process to try and achieve a desired
result. We have just published on our web site the
Geraldton Council minutes of the 24th April, with
the relative documents attached, so you can get an
appreciation of the processes some of these matters
go through. Interesting comments in some of the
private submissions made and Free Choice Camps
would like to thank each and everyone who took the
time and effort to make submissions. (Read from
page 33 onwards)
5 May – Fraser Coast Camping Options
Strategy
Council is asking for your feedback on their
proposed strategy. Our personal opinion is that if
the council were to go ahead with the suggested
changes it would do next to zero to change their
image and attract the RV tourist. It is obvious that
the balance of power within this subcommittee that
made these recommendation has no idea of how
the RV market operates. Please take the time to give
the council your opinions before it is too late
6 May – Purely a Coincidence?
This post on Free Choice Camping’s FaceBook
page reached over 19,000 people and was shared
onto 50+ other sites. Just goes to show the power
of social media when Councils make questionable
decisions and the public responds to them.
Feature | 29
8 May – Port Douglas to crack down on
“illegal” camping
Douglas Shire Council is allocating extra funds and
resources to crack down on illegal camping. An
extra Local Laws Officer will be recruited to assist
Regulatory Services with the management of illegal
camping, including early morning patrols, and
associated enforcement.
Council will also allocate funds to engage local police
on a commercial basis to assist Local Laws as
required. Illegal camping signage will be installed at
hot spot locations throughout the Douglas Shire to
complement the crackdown. Council will investigate
long-term options to address illegal camping,
including the consideration to establish free or lowcost camps in the Douglas Shire.
10 May – Clarence Valley could learn from
others
Although it happened on a smaller scale than what's
in store for the Clarence Valley, the by-pass of
Bulahdelah could teach the region some lessons.
The RMS Pacific Highway general manager Bob
Higgins said Bulahdelah was thriving, despite losing
direct connection to the highway, which had been
the lifeblood of its economy.
12 May – Tourist skipping drought ridden
Central-Western Qld
The crippling drought in Queensland's central-west
is turning off tourists who fear there is a shortage of
water for drinking and bathing, one local business
owner says.
17 May – Courier Mail opinion piece brings
storm of protest
Opinion: It’s time to tackle the unregulated and
undertaxed menace of caravans
“Let’s face it, for the average (non-vanning) motorist,
caravans are the highway equivalent of cholesterol
– the stuff born of overindulgence that clogs up the
arteries and, if allowed to fester, could well kill you in
the long run.”
Is it any wonder there was public reaction?
21 May – Could there be vested interests in
this story?
Headlines scream “Indigenous homeless fined in
Alice Springs but not illegal camping tourists” See
the full story on Free Choice Camping
21 May – A story from NZ
It is stories like this that give us all a bad reputation.
We fully endorse Council taking action against
repeat offenders.
23 May – WA spend on camping
“Environment Minister Albert Jacob has confirmed
a $6.25 million investment in the 2015-16 State
Budget for low-cost, high-quality camping and
caravanning accommodation and visitor facilities in
Western Australia’s national parks and reserves.”
24 May – At last the consumer being listened to
For a long time we have advocated that the
caravan park industry has been providing to us,
the consumer, what they wanted and not what we
wanted. We have all seen the comments on social
media, forums, etc, re jumping castles, swimming
pools and all those things that put prices up to pay
for it that many of us simply don't want. Well we take
out hat off to KUI PARKS who obviously are listening
24 May – Caravan Parks Association hits back
at Courier Mail Opinion Piece
27 May – Bright, Victoria. People power
in action
When Council rejects proposal for a dump point
local resident Yvonne Huggins starts a petition and
collects over 1000 signatures.
29 May – Success story in Murgon
An opinion piece: “Once upon a time there was
a small country town in the South Burnett which
like all country towns has seen its ups and downs
and lost its major employer and industry. It had a
small council-owned caravan park which over time
became less viable and eventually closed but the
businessmen’s association was determined to keep
it opened as a free park to encourage the tourist to
stay a while.”
30 May - Monto is fighting back
After receiving some adverse publicity last year,
the Monto community and business people, under
the banner of Monto Magic, has secured a lease
over the railway yards at the bottom end of the
Main Street for a 72 hr low-cost rest area for selfcontained vehicles. Congratulations to the Monto
community for this progressive step!
30 | Day Test: Sunliner Ranger
Power
Ranger!
Malcolm Street gets to grips with
Sunliner’s powerful 4X4 Ranger…
Day Test | 31
The Ranger’s compact dimensions and four-wheel drive ability let you get well off the beaten track. Height is the
biggest consideration when accessing out-of-the-way places.
O
ne sector of the motorhome industry
that is relatively small – no pun intended
– is for motorhomes built on small cabchassis like the Toyota HiLux or Ford Ranger.
Although their small size is sometimes seen as
a disadvantage there are several advantages,
one being the availability of four-wheel drive –
a feature often available only on much more
expensive motorhomes.
just south of Newcastle. If you haven’t been
there recently you’re in for a surprise. AMH’s
Bert van Leeuwarden gave me a tour of the
revised original premises and the more recent
additions, which will include a separate parts
and accessories area. There’s even a new area
devoted to those engineless thingys – you
know, caravans.
Down To Business…
Sunliner, for the most part, build full sized
ack to motorhomes, the Ranger has
coachbuilt motorhomes, but one of their little
a GVM of 3200 kg and a tare weight
niches is the 4X4 Ranger. Named after the
of 2740 kg, giving it a reasonable 460
Ford Ranger it’s built on, the test Ranger was
powered by a 3.2-litre turbo-diesel motor with a kg load capacity for people, fuel, water and
belongings. The body is done in the same
6-speed automatic gearbox.
Sunliner style as with all their motorhomes; that
My Ranger was made available by Australian
is with composite fibreglass (Thermotough)
Motor Homes (AMH) of Bennetts Green,
walls and moulded front and rear end caps. It
B
32 | Day Test
Top: The Ranger looks good with its
integrated cab and body decals. The
large over-bed skylight is a winner, just
watch for low branches. Middle: The
boxy body makes good use of space
and has a hatch to access underlounge storage. Bottom: Twin 4 kg
LPG cylinders are in keeping with the
Ranger’s shorter-trip focus.
also includes their trademark
sidestep under the cab doors.
That might sound like an
odd extra, but along with the
moulded nose, rear moulding
and the rakish looks of the
Ford Ranger, it does dilute the
boxy look considerably. Given
the body shape, the awning is
just long enough to cover the
entry door and side window.
One other point of note is the
rather striking paint scheme:
The decals on the body
work having been designed
to match in with the metallic
colour of the cab. Classy too
are the striking alloy wheels.
Often a weakness in this sized
motorhome is the lack of
external storage space, but
the Ranger is served quite
well, utilising the under seat
area at the rear. Although the
driver’s side bin is devoted to
the two 4.0 kg gas cylinders,
the kerb-side door offers
plenty of space for hoses,
power leads, plus camping
chairs and table. It’s not a
huge area, but then I reckon
this size motorhome is pitched
at a more lightweight style
of travel. Behind the driver’s
door, the external bin there is
for the battery and charger.
Day Test | 33
The Ford Ranger’s cab is
comfortable, modern and
well equipped. Larger aftermarket side mirrors are a
real bonus.
The test Ranger was powered by a 3.2-litre
turbo-diesel motor with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
It’s all neatly wired up, but the
12 V fuses which are labelled
(hooray!) are a bit awkward to
get at.
On The Road
T
he Ranger moves
along purposefully, with
the ‘big’ turbo-diesel
and six-speed auto working
smoothly together. Along the
flat and up low rise hills the
engine doesn't appear to be
working much at all. Of note
are the external mirrors: the
standard Ford ones have been
replaced by a wider set that
give good vision down the
sides of the vehicle. Also fitted
is a rear view camera – very
handy when manoeuvring in
tight places.
Often, smaller cab-chassis
based motorhomes are
not particularly good in the
handling department. Their
relatively tall height means
a bit too much side-to-side
sway, but I have to say the
Ranger was not too bad in that
department. I did wonder if the
suspension had been modified
in some way, but apparently
not.
Although the Ford Ranger is
definitely a four-wheel drive
vehicle, the Ranger should
be treated more like an allwheel drive vehicle, given
34 | Day Test
The rear club lounge provides good viewing, especially when reversed
into a picturesque spot. It also doubles as a second bed and has good
natural light and ventilation.
its construction method. It's not a hard core
Land Cruiser, but traction in slippery and
soft conditions will be much better than a
conventional two-wheel drive.
Living Inside
I
n a motorhome only 5.8 m (19 ft) in length
and with its engine in front of the cab there
are always going to be a few restrictions on
living space. However, the Ranger layout is
quite well designed.
There’s a bed over the cab, a forward entry
door and a compact version of a club lounge in
the rear. That leaves enough room for a small
bathroom directly behind the driver’s seat,
along with a three quarter height wardrobe and
a split kitchen filling the middle. Apart from the
bed area, overhead lockers fill the top wall area
all round. Above the cab the bed base is fixed
and cannot be lifted up to give more headroom.
Seitz-brand hopper windows all-round improve
space perceptions no end and give a great
view from the club lounge. Sunliner has opted
to fit a Lagun swivel table mount, which is
much better than a single pole mount and
makes it very easy to move the table. It’s also
very practical in a dinette/lounge arrangement
like this.
Time To Cook
M
eal times are going to be relatively
simple, which is to be expected in a
motorhome like this. The kerb side
cabinet adjoining the dinette comes with a
round stainless steel sink and two burner
cooktop sans grill, plus drawer and cupboard
space below. On the opposite side, an almostfloor-level 90 L 3-way fridge has a microwave
oven above it. There’s also an adjoining
wardrobe with shelf space above.
Day Test | 35
This shallow-but-tall
cupboard would benefit
from some netting
restrainers or similar to
avoid things falling out
en masse when opened.
36 | Day Test
Top: Light decor keeps the inside bright, while the table’s Lagun swivel mount provides maximum dining flexibility.
Bottom: Bed access is simple via a short ladder, while the over-bed skylight ensures good nighttime ventilation.
This kitchen set-up is a change from an earlier
layout where an under bench fridge was
fitted and the microwave was located in the
overhead lockers. Consequently there has
been a bit of a trade off – almost no bench top
working space, but more general storage, both
above and below.
After Hours
T
here are two bedtime choices in the
Ranger: the above-cab bed and the rear
lounge, which can be folded down into
a bed. I reckon most will opt for the over-cab
bed, but the rear lounge is good if a couple
of good sized single beds are desired. Bed
making is often seen to be a chore, so there’s
much to be said for something like a Duvalay
on both beds.
The over-cab bed measures 1.9 m x 1.45 m
(6 ft 3 in x 4 ft 9 in) and there’s a step ladder
handy for clambering up and down. Although
an earlier model had small windows on either
side, the bed area did have a slightly cramped
feel and the Skyview hatch above the bed in
this model is a welcome addition, both for light
and airflow.
Day Test | 37
Top: The bathroom is typical for this size vehicle: compact
but more than sufficient. Bottom: Looking good. Note the
side steps below the cab doors, which integrate the cab
and body nicely. Just watch them on rocks if you take it
seriously off-road.
Keeping Clean
N
o surprises in the bathroom, that is
for sure. It comes with a swivelling
cassette toilet, variable-height flexiblehose shower and other essentials like a vent
fan hatch and towel rail. A shower curtain
prevents water flow to the door mounted
mirror and all-essential loo paper, too!
What I think
S
unliner has made a few changes from
its earlier Ranger and for the most part
that’s a good thing. Also, and for its
size, I reckon the Ranger is a classy looking
motorhome. Although relatively small and with
not a great deal of living area, it does offer
several advantages: four wheel drive, a width
that is suitable for narrow bush tracks, easy
parking as long as the height is remembered
and relatively good fuel economy.
38 | Day Test
If you’re planning to hook up a boat, horse float or similar pay close attention to the Ford Ranger’s handbook. Its claimed
3500 kg towing capacity is a dubious one…
Ed’s Note On Towing
A
quick quiz of the gross vehicle mass (GVM) and gross combination mass (GCM) of the
Ford Ranger put it at odds with its rated towing capacity. The accepted formula for
calculating towing capacity is to subtract GVM from the GCM. In this instance that’s 3200
kg from 6000 kg, which leaves 2800 kg. Ford proudly proclaims a 3500 kg towing capacity, even
though the brochure says the GCM must include the weight of a braked trailer. So what’s the
truth?
Digging deeply into Ford’s brochure I found the following, relating specifically to the 3500 kg
towing capacity claim:
“Braked towing capacity when fitted with a Genuine Ford towpack and tow ball, subject
to State and Territory towing regulations. The weight of the vehicle must not exceed the
Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM). The combined weight of the fully loaded vehicle and trailer
must not exceed the Gross Combination Mass (GCM). Maximum individual axle loads
must not be exceeded. Tow ball downforce must be taken into account when calculating
payload. Tow ball download must be a minimum of 10% of the towed weight for all model
variants. Tow ball download must not exceed 350kg for all model variants built on or after
1 November, 2012.”
continued…
Day Test | 39
Ford’s claimed 3500 kg
towing capacity appears
to be nothing more than
smoke-and-mirrors.
40 | Day Test
The bottom line? It appears you can tow 3500
kg – but only if the vehicle is 700 kg BELOW
its maximum loaded weight (GVM) AND the
payload is distributed in such a way as not to
exceed individual axle limits!
Given the Sunliner Ranger’s payload is 460 kg
all-up, it’s 240 kg behind the eight ball to begin
with. Unless I’ve missed something, Ford’s
claimed 3500 kg towing capacity appears to
be nothing more than a smoke-and-mirrors
attempt to deceive buyers and bolster the
Ranger’s image in the marketplace. Once again
it pays to read the fine print.
Day Test | 41
Specifications
Manufacturer
Sunliner
Model
Ranger
Base Vehicle
Ford Ranger 4X4
Engine
3.2 litre turbo-diesel
Power
147 KW @ 3000rpm
Torque
470Nm @ 1500 - 2750 rpm
Gearbox
Gerbox 6-speed
Brakes
ABS Disc
Tare Weight
2740 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass
3200 kg
Gross Combination Mass
6000 kg
Towing capacity
3500 kg
Licence
Car
Approved Seating
2
External Length
5.8 m (19 ft)
External Width
2.13 m (7 ft)
External Height
2.85 m (9 ft 4 in)
Internal Height
1.97 m (6 ft 6 in)
Main Bed Size
1.9 m x 1.45m (6 ft 3 in x 4 ft 9 in)
Cooktop
Thetford 3 burner
Fridge
Dometic RM2350 90 L
Microwave
Yes
Lighting
12 V LED
Batteries
1 x 100 AH
Solar Panels
1 x 80 W
Air Conditioner
Optional
Space Heater
Optional
Hot Water
Truma 14 L
Toilet
Thetford cassette
Shower
Flex-hose, variable height
Gas Cylinders
2 x 4 kg
Water Tank
55 L
Grey Water Tank
30 L
Price on Road in NSW
$114,727
Pros
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Smart looking
Relatively good exterior storage
Generous window/hatch area
Comfortable and practical rear
club lounge
Standard solar
4X4 package that won’t break
the bank
Powerful and smooth to drive
Compact dimensions
Cons
• Almost no kitchen
bench space
• 12 V fuses awkward to access
• Cab access awkward
due to fixed bed
Manufacturer
Sunliner RV
T: (03) 8761 6411
W: www.sunliner.com.au
Supplied by
Thanks to
Australian Motorhomes
31 Pacific Highway
Bennetts Green.
NSW. 2290
T: (02) 4948 0433
Click for
Google Maps
E: for email contact form click here
W: www.australianmotorhomes.com.au
42 | Day Test
I reckon
the Ranger is a
classy looking
motorhome.
44 | Reader Report
My Motorhome
Custom Toyota HiAce
by Cookie Lloyd
Make & Model: Toyota HiAce custom built
by Southern Spirit Campervans
Year: 2014
Bought: New.
Mileage now: 5000 km km
Length: Short!
Licence required: Car Base vehicle brand: Toyota HiAce
Engine size: 3.0-litre turbo diesel
Transmission: Auto
Average fuel economy: N/A
No of berths: 2
No of seatbelt-equipped seats: 4
Why did I choose it? Combination of
own design and advice of Southern Spirit
Campervans.
First vehicle or replacement: Downsized
from camper trailer.
Options fitted: Solar panels, fridge, gas stove.
Reader Report | 45
Features
Best features: Easy to be in, comfy,
convenient to pack and unpack. Every
little thing has been thought through
thoroughly.
Worst features: Not enough time to
travel in it!
Warranty issues: None.
Dealer support: Toyota proved a
lemon but the manufacturer has more
than made up for it.
Manufacturer support: Southern
Spirit have become almost family, and
their support is amazing – nothing is too
much trouble no matter how dumb our
questions are.
Recommend to a friend: Yes 46 | Reader Report
Comments
The whole experience of designing and getting
our van built has been fun – a steep learning
curve but a fun one. Our van was built in
Brisbane and we live in Wollongong. This is
because we could not find anyone closer that
would do the conversion we were keen on.
Many didn’t even respond to phone calls or
emails. One could expect then that the process
of long distance campervan construction with
picky clients like us would be hard. It wasn’t.
Would recommend Ollie and Pia of Southern
Spirit to anyone keen on a professional van fit
out that is efficient, clever and very personal.
We were quite decided on what we wanted
and how we wanted it. This was so easily
accommodated and added to by Southern
Spirit. Many manufacturers offer custom
building but in the end try to sway you into
what they want to build. Southern Spirit
Reader Report | 47
listened to us and improved on our ideas rather than change them. For us this was very important
so consequently we are more than delighted with our van. The fit out is so expertly constructed
with an amazing attention to detail that is so often lost on mass produced vans.
Little things make the difference, like accommodating my wish for a space to chop the tucker
near the stove – yep, complicated and hard to fit in such a small area – but Ollie did it! A seat
with an approved seat belt for the dog harness next to the window – no problem! Down lights
on the rear door – easy. A place for my early morning cuppa next to the bed – done. We cannot
recommend Southern Spirit too highly.
48 | Travel: Olive Pink
Thank You
Miss Pink!
Red and yellow and green and blue,
this garden is a dream come true…
Story by Elizabeth Mueller, images by Helmut Mueller
Travel | 49
Alice Springs’ suburbia is close but far enough away.
W
ithin cooee of Alice Springs’ busy Todd
Mall is a little pocket of paradise called
Olive Pink Botanic Garden. There’s
no way this little patch can compete with the
mighty gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges
or even attempt to overshadow the glorycharged features to the east of Alice. But what
Olive Pink’s garden does have is a centre of
calm, and a wealth of underlying treasures to
be found.
of a character; an eccentric with a moral
strength that led to her being described as
“indomitable”. Apparently she preferred an
Edwardian style of dress, sold flowers and fruit
to help makes ends meet and, at the age of 72,
lived for several years in a tent on the site that
would become the flora reserve. But Miss Pink
is best remembered for her achievements as an
anthropologist, botanical artist, Aboriginal rights
activist – and as a gardener.
Naturally, the focus here is on flora, specifically
trees, shrubs and flowers that grow in the arid
regions of Australia. In turn the plant life attracts
birds, insects and other animals, so the garden
is a celebration of the biodiversity of Central
Australia.
National Treasure!
The garden is named after its founder, Miss
Olive M. Pink, who first visited Central Australia
in the 1930s. It seems Miss Pink was a bit
T
he Olive Pink Botanic Garden is now
listed on the Register of the National
Estate. Over the years the eclectic
collection of plants has evolved and, just as in
nature, it continues to transform as the seasons
roll on. Within the grounds any hint of the
nearby city is quietly quashed.
50 | Travel
Rough-hewn steps ease the slope at Annie Meyers Hill.
A network of walking trails winds around shrubs
and under trees in a seemingly haphazard
way. In reality, the trails explore gardens
within the garden. And the current curators of
Miss Pink’s vision are doing a wonderful job.
Eremophilas are grouped in one section, with a
range that hints at the diversity of this desertloving plant (there are more than 200 species
of eremophilas in Australia). The flowers are
bright sparks of colour on both bushy groundhuggers and taller shrubs, while intricate
markings decorate some blooms. Nearby, a
wire-wrapped emu sculpture reminds visitors of
one of the eremophilas’ common names – the
Emu Bush – which seems quite appropriate.
Emus, it seems, like to eat the seeds produced
by different eremophila, while insects and birds
are attracted to the nectar.
There’s little in the way of formality here, and
each sub-garden blurs within the whole. The
tangled branches of flowering lignum – another
of the eremophila species – borders part of
the car park and leads visitors under towering
casuarinas draped with beautiful grey-green
needles. Some of the trees in the botanic
garden are quite unusual and the waddy trees
here represent a species that grows naturally
in only three places in the country. Others are
notable for their oddity, and the curling bark
that peels from the trunk of some red mulga
adds a decorative yet bizarre touch to these
trees.
Flower Power…
F
or many visitors, flowers are the main
attraction. Though the flora of Central
Australian is rarely gaudy or flamboyant
there’s always some colour to be found. Reds
might be seen in the holly-leaf grevilleas, with
blooms peeking through needle-tipped leaves.
Shades of purple might leap out from bush
Travel | 51
tomatoes or other solanum species, or peep
from a corner in the form of a tiny daisy.
Wattles can display a whole gamut of yellows
and a large section of the gardens is devoted
to this abundant species. A walk around the
wattles is quite a wonderful experience, with all
manner of insects busy with the fuzzy blooms.
Add to that the myriad green of foliage and
a huge blue-bowl of the sky, and a veritable
rainbow appears.
Of the walking trails, some are well marked
while others blend with the landscape and
it’s easy to be led off the garden path (so
to speak)! From the wattles, it’s a natural
progression to explore some of the boulderstrewn slopes where mulla mullas, seeding
spinifex or perhaps poached egg daisies might
be seen. A longer walk leads up Annie Meyers
Hill. Miss Pink insisted “Annie” be included in
the official name of the hill so it couldn’t be
confused with a male dignitary.
The Arrernte name of Tharrarletneme
expresses the cultural heritage that’s woven
throughout the gardens, and from this northern
ridge the views are a reminder of being just a
stone’s throw from the city. It can be a bit of
a scramble to the top but it’s an interesting
untamed – and unplanted – location that gives
yet another perspective to the landscapes of
Central Australia.
Throughout the gardens, benches and other
seats are scattered in a number of settings
for visitors to simply sit and enjoy. Many of
the spots are perfect for a bit of casual bird
watching, and with a bit of luck one of the
resident western bowerbirds might make an
appearance. With a bit more luck it’s possible
to spot the males arranging shiny things in their
Top: Bright yellow balls of bloom on one of the garden’s
wattle species. Bottom: There’s a bug in there, having a
lovely old time in a flowering lignum.
52 | Travel
messy, though functional, bowers. There are
quite a variety of birds to see, of course, from
parrots to miners to babblers.
Cafe Culture!
A
n on-site café is an excellent addition to
the botanic garden. Named presumably
for the bat’s wing coral trees loved by
Miss Pink, the Bean Tree Café has just enough
touch of the gourmet to be fabulously delicious.
Breakfast is served from 8:00 am every day
and lunch from 11.30 am. There’s coffee
and a range of cakes on offer for morning
and afternoon tea, plus a small gift shop
showcases local handcrafts.
With a jumbled rock face at one end of the
open dining area and shady trees overhead,
the setting is superb. It’s not unusual to spot
a euro hopping around the rocks, or a lizard
out soaking up the warmth of the day. Birds
fly through as well, with the cheekiest on the
lookout for a free feed. It all blends well with the
idea of a botanic garden.
There is a subtle education to be gained here,
from personal observation as much as from
absorbing information that’s presented on
boards here and there throughout the garden.
On occasions guided tours meander through
the gardens, with some concentrating on
bush tucker and others on different points of
plant ecology. The garden also plays host to a
range of other events including festivals, fairs,
workshops and musical extravaganzas.
Thanks to Miss Pink’s dreams and
determination, the botanic garden is a place
for all to enjoy. In one of those rare “good”
seasons the floral show would be breathtaking.
But no matter the season, the Olive Pink
Botanic Garden is a place to appreciate the
colours, textures, shapes and smells of those
hardy plants that survive in the arid zones of
Central Australia.
Top: A perfect setting for a meal at the Bean Tree Café.
Bottom: Breakfast anyone? The accompanying bush
tomato relish is a Bean Tree Café special.
Travel | 53
Above: From near the top of Annie Meyers Hill, views look over the café and
on to Mount Gillen in the Heavitree Range. Top right: Floral symbol of the
Northern Territory, Sturt desert rose. Bottom right: A larger-than-life emu is
one of the artistic installations in the botanic garden.
Fast Facts
Olive Pink Botanic Garden is on Tuncks Road,
Alice Springs. The grounds have plenty of
parking and there are bicycle and walking paths
nearby. Entry is by donation, with an honesty
box located near the entrance.
The garden is open from 8:00 to 6:00 daily
(except Christmas Day and Good Friday);
the Bean Tree Café is open from 8:00 to 4:00.
For more information and details on
upcoming events and garden tours see
www.opbg.com.au
Recommended reading to find out more about
Miss Pink’s life is an excellent biography by
Professor Julie Marcus: The Indomitable Miss
Pink: a Life in Anthropology.
54 | Short Break: Marulan
Meridian Trip!
Don’t pass Marulan next time to hurry along the
Hume Highway…
by Richard Robertson
Short Break | 55
I
t’s easy to miss the tiny township of
Marulan, some 170 km southwest of
Sydney. Best known these days for its
heavy vehicle weighing stations that straddle
the Hume Highway, Marulan has never been
a picturesque town in tourist terms. It is,
however, steeped in history and also has a
unique claim to fame.
The town sits on a narrow neck of land some
18 km wide between the Wollondilly and
Shoalhaven Rivers. This provides the only
navigable route between Sydney and points
south west – like Canberra and eventually
Melbourne – unless you cross the Blue
Mountains or follow the coast. For centuries,
Indigenous people from four tribes met at
this point for trade; it marking the boundary
between their traditional lands.
European Beginnings…
A
lthough explored by Europeans as early
as 1798, it was 1818 when, together
with the deputy surveyor-general,
James Meehan, and explorer Charles
Throsby, a young Hamilton Hume reached
and explored the Goulburn Plains. Governor
Lachlan Macquarie ordered construction of
the Great South Road – the forerunner of
today’s Hume Highway – from Picton in 1819
and it was planned the township of Bungonia,
at its southern end, would become a major
commercial centre. That didn’t eventuate due
to the unsuitability of the land for intensive
agriculture and the road was realigned, with a
junction built for a new road towards today’s
Goulburn. It was this junction that became
the fledgling settlement of Marulan, servicing
travellers on both roads.
The advent of the railway in 1868 put Marulan
on the map, and if you’ve ever driven through
Top: Faded signs and rusting farm equipment tell of better
times and simpler days. Bottom: The railway brought
life to Marulan in 1868. Today the station is visited by an
infrequent passenger service and mainly sees goods trains
speeding through.
56 | Short Break
Marulan Meats trades from one of the many historic buildings on the main street.
you will have passed The Terminus Hotel in
the centre of town. As the railway passes
through to Goulburn, Canberra and beyond,
I’d often wondered why the hotel was called
The Terminus. It turns out Marulan was
initially the end of the line and from it, Cobb
& Co coaches and supply wagons delivered
people and goods to outlying properties and
settlements. The railway line terminated three
kilometres north of Old Marulan and the site,
with its makeshift workers’ cottages, was
known as Mooroowoolen. It didn’t take long
for businesses and residents to move ‘up
the road’ to the railhead, which was quickly
renamed Marulan. The railway was soon
extended to Goulburn and Marulan’s glory
faded somewhat, but it remained an important
town on the Great South Road.
Marulan’s unique location meant that when
the Great South Road eventually morphed into
the Hume Highway, in 1928, it became the
logical place to monitor road commerce. The
first vehicle checking station was established
in 1931 and it developed into the first heavy
vehicle weighing stations in 1958. Marulan was
bypassed by today’s dual carriageway Hume
Highway in 1985 and much of the travellerrelated commerce in the town soon shut
down.
Meridian Strip…
M
arulan is undergoing a steady, if
not rapid, renaissance. Just 15
minutes from Goulburn it’s turning
into something of a ‘satellite suburb’, with a
large and expanding new housing area on its
western boundary. It also appears to becoming
popular with retirees; offering affordable
housing within easy reach of Sydney and
Canberra and good road access for travelling.
The Town’s long main street – George Street,
Short Break | 57
Top to bottom: The amenities block in the main park is brightly
painted and leaves you in no doubt as to where you are!
which is actually the Old Hume Highway – has
a few new buildings near the Terminus Hotel,
including a bakery and small supermarket, and
there’s now a modest museum by the park.
Perhaps the most compelling reason to
detour into town is the chance to stand on
– indeed straddle – the 150º meridian of
longitude! Marulan is the only town in the
world this meridian passes through, and it
also happens to place Marulan at the centre
of the Eastern Standard Time Zone. Here,
every equinox, the sun rises at exactly 6 am
and sets precisely at 6 pm! Meridian Park is
at the very southern end of town, immediately
on the right as you take the Marulan turnoff
heading north. Sandwiched between the Old
and ‘New’ Hume Highways, the small park
features a rather abstract concrete structure
that marks the meridian’s passage. There you
can stand on or straddle it, while watching a
metal sculpture overhead that represents the
World’s longitudinal meridians, spin on a windy
day. Such excitement!
58 | Short Break
This unusual sculpture in
Meridian Park marks the exact
spot where the 150º east
meridian of longitude passes
through Marulan.
From Meridian Park a historic walk stretches
to the far end of town, but you’re likely to
drive its couple-of-kilometre length. Along the
old road historic buildings in various states of
repair have plaques out the front explaining
their significance. The old Royal Hotel – now
a private residence – is superb, while the old
General Store and neighbouring sheds, replete
with fading Billy Tea advertisements and
featuring a collection of old farm machinery,
are pure nostalgia. You can even download
a self-guided tour of the Great South Road
here, which includes all the historic buildings in
town. In many ways Marulan is like a town time
forgot, and the old and new rub shoulders in a
kind of easy going mateship any busy tourist
town would long ago have segregated and
sanitised.
Go Fly a Kite!
T
hings to do include taking the historic
walk, oohing-and-aahing in Meridian
Park, enjoying a picnic in neatly kept
Tony Onions Memorial Park and checking
out the museum, antique shop and cafes.
That could keep you busy for anything from
an hour to a day – maybe even two. On
Saturday 24 October Marulan hosts its annual
Kite Festival! This is supported by local and
visiting stall holders offering everything from
handicrafts to fresh food and real coffee, plus
there’s live music and plenty of activities for
kids of all ages. There’s even a Kite Parade led
by players from the Goulburn Pipe and Drums,
so if you’re looking for a fun day out be sure to
mark it in your diary.
Marulan doesn’t have a tourist office, but
Regardless of when you visit, the main thing is
information can be found on the Goulburn
to stop by and explore. Marulan has rewards
Visitor Information Centre website. Not
you’ll never discover if you simply drive past…
being a tourist town is part of Marulan’s charm.
It certainly doesn’t bustle, but its historic
buildings and interesting past make it a little
slice of Australia well worth exploring.
Short Break | 59
The Blacksmiths Tucker Box trades from a historic stone
building that’s seen many uses. The toastie brekkie wraps
are to diet for!
Eating Out
T
he Terminus Hotel is a small country
pub with a bistro open Wednesday to
Sunday. Right in the centre of town
it’s the place to go for a cleansing ale any day
of the week, but I haven’t tried the food. The
Meridian Cafe is the best known eatery and
it has been there for years. It must be pretty
good as my In-Laws recommend it!
However, our favourite is across the road
from the Terminus in a tiny old stone cottage:
The Blacksmiths Tucker Box. Open daily
and operated by single-mum Anna it claims
to be, “The cutest lil takeaway… Come try
our BBQ Chooks, Chicken Burgers, Chick
Snitz Burgers, Fish and Chips, Fresh Cut
Sandwiches, Hot Food Snax, Coffee Tea and
Cakes, lollies, icecreams and much much
more….”
We popped in on a Saturday night, which
along with Fridays turned out to be Pizza
Night! The tiny shop is basically a take-away,
but there are two inside tables and a few
outside in the, cough, ‘alfresco dining area’.
We BYOd (inc glasses!) over a BBQ chicken
pizza with garlic and chilli as a steady stream
of locals dropped by for their take-home treats.
Immaculately clean, neat and tidy, we backedup Sunday morning for Brekki Toasty Wraps
of cooked bacon, sausage, egg, cheese
and tomato or BBQ sauce, and good coffee.
Delicious! The only downside? It’s cash only.
60 | Short Break
The Old Hume Highway, now called George Street, has seen better day. The Marulan Town Clock, presented in 1991
by the Lions Club, is set in a 30-tonne piece of limestone. Quarried nearby, it’s said to be the largest piece of limestone
ever transported by road in the southern hemisphere.
Staying over
T
here is no caravan park in Marulan, nor
are there any free camping sites listed
on Wikicamps. We overnighted in the
small carpark at Meridian Park, which was well
suited to our longterm Horizon Casuarina van
conversion and would be fine for vehicles up
to about 8 m. With the freeway right behind
and a truck stop across the road it wasn’t the
most serene spot, but being late autumn and
rather cold the closed windows kept out quite
a bit of background noise.
Truck Stop 31, directly across from Meridian
park, has a huge parking area on its northern
side and we saw a couple of caravans staying
there overnight. Being a Saturday night the
Short Break | 61
parking area was deserted, but it might be a
different story during the week.
There also appear to free camping
opportunities down by the railway station,
which would escape the highway noise but be
subject to occasional nighttime goods trains.
There is even a set of level concrete wheel
tracks big enough to park a bus on, to one
side of the station’s informal car park. A bit of a
hunt around would likely reveal many more free
camping opportunities, and the god thing is
there isn’t a ‘No Camping’ sign in sight.
Top: We free camped at Meridian Park without problems,
although it’s best suited to smaller vehicles. Right: The
historic walk has some interesting buildings and a selfguided walking tour is available.
62 | Technical: A-Frame Towing
Towing The Line
Some insights into the mysteries of A-frame towing…
B
ecause iMotorhome has no first-hand
experience towing a ‘toad’ – or ‘dinghy
vehicle’ as Americans call them – we
recently had a quick chat with Mark Blyton,
proprietor of Brisbane-based Northcoach RV
Equipment, about the basic requirements of
A-frame towing.
“A-frame towing continues to become more
popular. However, here are a number of
important factors that you must take into
account when considering towing a vehicle
behind your motorhome. Each State has
different laws regarding the towing of vehicles
and it is important you check, or contact us so
we can advise you,” Mark said.
Things you need to know before deciding what
to tow include:
• Check your tow bar rating. The rating must
be more than the GVM (gross vehicle mass)
of the towed vehicle. Do not assume it is the
Tare Weight of the vehicle
•Most manual vehicles can be towed.
The Suzuki Grand Vitara can be towed in
automatic. Check with us before you buy a
vehicle to be sure it is able to be towed
• Not all models of a particular vehicle can be
towed. For example, the Suzuki Grand Vitara
is the most popular vehicle towed, but the
2006 3-door version can’t be towed
• Not all vehicles have base plates (the
attachment to the towed vehicle) available.
It is possible to have a custom base plate
made, but at additional cost
• Depending on the weight of the vehicle and
different State regulations, you might need a
braking system
Technical | 63
• A-frame towing is also known as “flat
towing”. This is because the frame needs to
be parallel with the roadway. If the A-frame
isn’t flat when hooked up you may need a
drop receiver for the towbar. This allows for
the frame to become level
• A-frames with retractable arms are easiest to
hook up
• All A-frames must be ADR approved and
supplied with appropriate certification.
Optional Extras
Here are a number of extras to make life
easier:
• Locking Pins, which are available individually
or in a set of three. They secure your A-frame
to both the motorhome and car so it cannot
be stolen or tampered with
• Cover – used to protect your A-frame
when not in use
• Stone Guard – protects the towed vehicle
from stones and other loose objects.
“Northcoach RV Equipment supplies Blue
Ox and Ready Brute A-frames and we have
a comprehensive range of accessories and
spare parts,” Mark concluded. If you have any
questions Mark is happy to help and you can
contact him or one of his team on (07) 32096654 or via email at enquiries@northcoach.
com.au. You’ll also find plenty of information in
their website at www.northcoach.com.au.
64 | Longtermer Update: Horizon Motorhomes Casuarina
Steady
As She
Goes
How our longterm Horizon Casuarina
is faring…
Longtermer Update | 65
T
he three weeks since last issue started
with a flurry of activity – our return from
a week in and around Mansfield in
North Eastern Victoria – but have been very
quiet since. This was largely due to a week
in Wanaka on New Zealand’s South Island,
and no matter how convincingly I argued the
Qantas ground staff wouldn’t let me bring the
Casuarina along – even as excess baggage!
Our week in Victoria added 1724 km to
the odometer. When we left home the trip
computer showed 11.1 L/100 km (25.4 mpg)
average fuel consumption since filling up in
Sydney the week before and also doing some
local running round. The Ducato’s 125-litre
fuel tank is a valuable asset, allowing easy
touring between major centres and the chance
to find the best priced fuel. We topped up at
Woollies in Laverton (suburban Albury) for a
true average of 11.96 L/100 km (23.6 mpg)
for the run south, which although higher than
past figures was pretty good considering
we’d battled ferocious headwinds at freeway
speeds all the way down. Interestingly, the trip
Mansfield is a beautiful place in Autumn. The monument
is a tribute to three police offices killed by the Kelly Gang,
while the steps of the courthouse are from where Ned
Kelly was proclaimed an outlaw.
66 | Longtermer Update
computer said we’d averaged 11.1 for that
same journey.
The tank capacity proved invaluable for our
week in Mansfield as we were able to do all
our running around and get back to Laverton
for a 92.7-litre fill on the way home. That
equated to an average of 11.14 L/100 km
(25.4 mpg) for the week, although again the
trip computer proved optimistic at 10.5 L/100
km (26.9 mpg). That last fill was on 17 May
and we’re still on the same tankful.
The most interesting/challenging drive of our
Mansfield stay was up to the ski resort of
Mount Buller the morning after a pre-season
snowfall. Despite its Man From Snowy River
reputation, Mansfield is only about 350 metres
above sea level, whereas the ski resort is 1750
metres. We crossed the snow line around the
1100 m mark and despite the steep climb, -2º
C temperature, slush on the road and lightly
falling snow the Ducato didn’t miss a beat.
We didn’t linger up top as conditions were
deteriorating and we didn’t have chains. On
descent the gearbox’s action of holding a gear
when there is little or no accelerator applied,
plus the engine’s 3.0-litre capacity, provided
excellent engine braking.
Top to bottom: Mt Buller in the spring snow, at 1750 m
altitude. It’s quite a climb but the Ducato handled it easily.
The ice warning light comes on at 3ºC, but up on the
mountain it dropped to -3ºC. Brrrr…
Apart from a few local trips to the shops the
Casuarina has been sitting on the driveway,
enduring our first local frosts and snow flurries.
Longtermer Update | 67
Fast Facts
Given its Euro heritage it’s no wonder Fiat’s Ducato is
at home in alpine conditions. Front-wheel drive is a
bonus in the snow, too.
It’s also well overdue for a wash and floor
mopping! Poking around at home I happened
on the jack and (very) basic toolkit, which lives
under the passenger seat in a plastic case. I
also re-discovered the tray under the driver’s
seat, which is an excellent place for a tool roll,
torch and other occasionally used items you
need to keep near a door.
All-in-all the Casuarina continues to demand
nothing, yet remains an enjoyable, comfortable
and practical vehicle to have on the driveway. I
can hear the road calling again, though…
Manufacturer
Horizon Motorhomes
Model
Casuarina
Base Vehicle
Fiat Ducato XLWB van
Engine
3.0-litre turbo-diesel
Odometer on pick-up
3258 km
Odometer last fill
6108 km
Av Fuel – overall
11.04 L/100 km (25.6 mpg)
68 | Mobile Tech
ParkFinder WA
It’s all happening in Western Australia
By Emily Barker
Mobile Tech | 69
P
arkfinder WA is part of a range of online
and mobile resources being rolled out
over the next four years by the Western
Australian State Government as part of a new
‘Parks for People’ initiative. This grand scale
revamp aims to expand and enhance camping
and visitor experiences in parks and reserves
throughout WA by improving infrastructure,
advertising and information services.
We are increasingly seeing government agencies
releasing great new apps that intelligently provide
information solutions directly to the public and
this app is no exception. The Western Australian
department of Parks and Wildlife works hard
to protect and conserve the State’s natural
environment, but it’s clear they also want to
share the amazing experiences and biodiversity
that this extensive region has to offer.
The app itself is a fabulous tool that provides
a specific and detailed overview of the many
parks, significant sites, state conservation
reserves and features such as hiking trails and
mountain bike tracks that WA has to offer. Initial
searches can be conducted by map, park name
search or by utilising your location to find parks
nearby. Results can then be filtered according
to the activities and facilities you are seeking.
Designed to be used on the move and often
in remote areas, data can be downloaded to
enable offline access to park information or when
out of mobile range. Once discovered, parks can
also be saved to a favourites' list or even shared
with friends on social media. The app also offers
a ‘your account’ option, which once you have
registered using an active email account enables
you to interact socially with the app by posting
reviews of your experiences and even gives
you the option to share photos. Parkfinder WA
contains various external links to websites such
as the
Parks and Wildlife ‘Explore Parks’ website. This
70 | Mobile Tech
data linking ensures all information stays up-todate – particularly important when planning to
travel in remote areas.
Nice Interface!
T
he interface is nice and neat, making it
incredibly easy to locate and interpret
information. Each park has an initial
description complete with images followed by
a list of relevant information tabs. Each tab then
breaks down further into specific details including
sites such as lookouts and points of significance,
activities available such as swimming, fishing,
hiking, etc. It also details public facilities, including
toilets and dump points, plus entry fees and
contact details where applicable. It even offers an
in-app map feature utilising your location services
to display route directions and distance to travel.
Perhaps the best feature of this app though is
‘alerts’. This will notify you of everything from
bushfires, floods and weather warnings to road
works, construction related closures and even
recent crocodile warnings! The app’s creators
have obviously left ‘room for improvement’ – not
uncommon in a first edition of a new app –
which just means some areas are a little sparse
and obviously lacking content. That said, the
app offers an incredible amount of essential
information that is bound to enhance any travel
experience in the area.
Western Australia boasts some of the most
breathtaking natural experiences in Australia
and travellers and locals alike are set to benefit
from the announced, ongoing upgrades and
improvements. According to the website many
national park features are set to be improved,
including provision of low-cost, high-quality
camping and caravanning accommodation
and visitor facilities, upgrades to mountain bike
trails, new lookouts, more interactive interpretive
signage and more picnic area-style rest spots.
Mobile Tech | 71
Also excitingly in the pipeline is a new Trailfinder app
specific for bushwalkers and a mobile flora and fauna
guide!
ParkFinder WA is only available for iPhones at present,
however an Android version is currently in development
and at 56.3 MB it’s not only convenient but relatively
compact too!
ParkFinder WA
Platform: Apple iOS
Cost: Free
Size: 56.3 MB
72 | Next Issue
Adria Calling…
external USB and 12 V charging outlets, and even
a mains water connector – unusual on a European
motorhome. Apparently well priced it could certainly
put the Euro cat amongst the Aussie pigeons!
M
alcolm brings us a day test on an imported
Adria Coral motorhome based on a Fiat
Ducato that looks set to join the local lineup. It seems the Apollo Group – owners of Apollo,
Talvor and Winnebago – are pretty much committed
to adding Adria motorhomes to their mix, and
Malcolm came away quite impressed. Considering
it’s an entry level model possibly destined for the
rental market, the Coral has rear air suspension,
June 03-09
JUN
03-09
Queensland Caravan,
Camping & Touring
Supershow
Brisbane Showgrounds
Bowen Hills. Qld. 4006
• Open 10:00-6:00 daily
(4:00 last day)
• Parking: $12
(Take free train instead)
• Adults: $18
• Seniors: $12
• Kids: School age free with
adult
Visit Website
Click for
Google Maps
AUG
14-16
AUG
JUN
Travel stories will include a must-visit winery on the
Hume Highway steeped in colonial history – this
time for sure! – plus there’s a look at catching the
music bug and learning the ukulele while you travel!
Of course there will be another Longtermer update,
more apps and who knows what else?
We’re back in the two week groove and Issue 74
will be out on Saturday 20 June. Until then why not
Friends
join our more than 25,000 Facebook
and Twitter
followers and share laughs, fun
and more? See you soon!
AUG
Aug
07-09
03-09 14-16
07-09
AUG
07-09
Mid North Coast Caravan
& Camping Show
Wauchope Showgrounds,
Beechwood Rd
Wauchope. NSW. 2446.
RGB / .ai
JUN
Aug 14-16
03-09
RGB / .ai
AUG
14-16
Border RV & Camping Expo
Wodonga Racecourse,
Thomas Mitchell Drive.
Wodonga, Vic. 3690
• Open 9:00-5:00 daily (4:00
last day)
• Parking: Free
• Adults: $15
• Seniors: $11
• Kids: U16 free
• Open 10:00-6:00 daily
(4:00 last day)
• Parking: $12
(Take free train instead)
• Adults: $18
• Seniors: $12
• Kids: School age free with adult
Visit Website
Visit Website
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.

Sunliner`s compact 4X4 Ranger packs a powerful punch…

Transcription

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