Caravan World Issue 621

Thanks for buying Caravan World, and I hope you enjoy the read. As well as one of the first tow tests of a 300 Series LandCruiser, we have some great travel stories and advice about the caravanning lifestyle. We also dive into the many topics around travelling with children in this issue. There’s some excellent reading, including how to pack, how to keep the young ones amused, and some sage words from Cathy Anderson and our friends at Credit One. It’s timely advice for Heather and me as we are about to pack the van and catch up with family who have already set off on a trip across South Australia and into southern Western Australia. (With some luck, as we are used to saying these days). COVID-19 has taught everyone…

The National 4X4 Outdoors Show is back for another year on 18-20 March 2022, in what promises to be one of the biggest years yet. This year will see Hema Maps and Camper Australia presenting at the three-day show, plus announcing the winners of Camper Trailer of the Year 2021 (CTOTY). Featuring 45,000 square metres of outdoor display space including two big stages, an action and entertainment arena, a brand-new camping and outdoors stage, and an interactive campsite experience, the Brisbane National 4x4 Outdoors Show is sure to satisfy the needs of Australian camping and 4WD enthusiasts. We spoke to Event Director Jon, who told us a bit about what it takes to organise such a huge event. “We start planning almost immediately after the show — it’s a full 12 months…

The NSW Tourism Awards have smiled on the Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW (New South Wales). The organisation was recognised with a gold award for its 2021 Caravan Camping Holiday Supershow. Designed to encourage tourism organisations to strive to exceed industry expectations, the award acknowledges and celebrates tourism excellence in addition to rewarding businesses that demonstrate significant achievements during the year. The award criteria and categories are determined by the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC). NSW category winners have the opportunity to progress to the national level and compete in the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.…

According to Australian Walking Holidays, the Northern Territory is open for business! After extended periods of COVID-19 restrictions, travellers can now plan a Top End adventure. As of 1 February 2022, negative rapid antigen tests will no longer be needed to cross the border. Tourists ready to see Australia’s magical north will also not need to quarantine. They simply need to be vaccinated and fill out a border entry form. Australian Walking Tours offers a range of holidays catering to varying needs and abilities. Vacancies are still available for Kakadu adventures, the May 2022 Jatbula trek and the Classic Larapinta in Comfort.…

Thor Industries have partnered with ZF Friedrichshafen AG to develop eTrailer System (electric drive system) for towable RVs to help maintain range of electric vehicles when towing. The development is designed to maintain and possibly extend the nominal range of an electric vehicle when towing a trailer. Electric vehicles experience a significant reduction in range when towing any load, including a trailer. Unlike an ordinary trailer, a trailer equipped with the eTrailer System would be capable of utilising its own power through the system. By driving at the same speed of the tow vehicle, the electric tow vehicle can pull the trailer with minimal loss of range. The technology also has the potential to boost fuel efficiency of conventional tow vehicles with internal combustion engines or hybrid drivetrains. By reducing the load…

The Victorian Caravan Industry has celebrated another year of excellence in trade with the Victorian Caravan Industry Hall of Fame & Business Awards Gala Event. The theme of the prestigious night was Strictly Caravanning. Caravan Industry Victoria CEO Rob Lucas expressed his gratitude to the event’s partners. “This event would not operate to the highest standard we have set without our amazing partners, we are very grateful for their support and thank each one of them,” he said. The event was held at the Centre Ivanhoe and the 370 attendees enjoyed the entertainment of professional ballroom dancers, a band and the company of previous Hall of Fame winners. Two members were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their contribution to the caravan industry. Ray Foley and Wayne O’Brien have achieved…