iMotorhome
1: May 5 2012
.com.au
Issue
because getting there is half the fun...
Great Drives!
Tell us your favourite touring routes
Sydney Supershow 2012 24-page show round-up inside!
On my mind...
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elcome to the first issue of iMotorhome, the free e-magazine dedicated to motorhomes and campervans in Australia and New Zealand.
but here we are and what a great time to kick off our first issue – immediately after the massive Sydney RV Supershow.
Launching a new magazine is always an exciting and perilous time and iMotorhome is no exception. Already the Team has endured its fair share of highs and lows,
Inside this first issue you’ll find a 24 page Show feature covering the 12 motorhome manufacturers that displayed their vehicles. As usual the show seemed well attended,
although at nine days duration it must rank as one of the longest shows of its type anywhere in the world: Full marks to all who took part and manned (personed?) the stands day-after-day. The focus of iMotorhome, however, is to bring you well written, in-depth and lavishly Continued on page 4...
The iMotorhome Team
Richard Robertson Publisher & Managing Editor richard@imotorhome.com.au
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long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a CMCA member and motorhome enthusiast. Richard has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia He has a passion for lifestyleenhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind iMotorhome magazine.
Malcolm Street Consulting Editor
malcolm@imotorhome.com.au
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nquestionably Australia and New Zealand’s best known RV journalist, Malcolm is a fixture at CMCA rallies and RV shows and is now in his second decade as a specialist RV writer. If it’s available on either side of the Tasman, Malcolm has probably driven it, slept in it, knows how it’s made and can tell you how good it is.
Allan Whiting Technical Editor
allan@imotorhome.com.au
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n experienced motoring writer when Japanese cars were a novelty, Allan’s career read’s like Australian motor writing royalty. Highly experienced in or on everything from motorcycles to B-doubles, Allan also runs www.outbacktravelaustralia.com – an invaluable free resource for anyone touring remote corners of Australia.
Published by iMotorhome. ABN 34 142 547 719. PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW. 2576. Contact us on 0414 604 368 or Email: info@imotorhome.com.au
INSIDE EDISNI
2 EDITORIAL P5
4 NEWS 6 NEW RELEASE
Interesting Diversion: Winnebago’s new-spec Sprinter van conversion
7 SYDNEY SHOW An F-to-W look at the motorhome manufacturers on display last week:
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• Frontline Campervans • Horizon Motorhomes • Jayco • KEA Campers • Paradise Motorhomes • Suncamper • Sunliner • Talvor • Trakka • Winnebago • Wirr-Away Motorhomes
23 29 TRAVEL 30 NEXT ISSUE!
Great Drives: It’s what motorhoming is all about. Tell us yours!
News...
See/Drive/Buy the Bird... R
ush down to Milperra in Sothern-Western Sydney on Saturday, 12 May to the KEA Campers’ Open Day. It’s your chance to meet smiling Norman Roe and his good team, inspect their new and used vehicles, ask tough questions and maybe even enjoy a sausage sizzle (possible writer’s fantasy there – Ed). You can also twist Norman’s arm as he told iMotorhome there will be some particu-
larly sharp deals on offer. KEA Campers not only rent campervans and motorhomes in 2/4/6-berth sizes, they design and manufacture their own vehicles, too. Quality made and highly regarded by the iMotorhome team (who have used them extensively over many years with other publications), KEA Campers are backed by the Company’s own national sales and service network, providing back-up around Australia
that covers everything from routine servicing to vehicle refurbishments. You’ll find them at 106-108 Ashford Avenue, Milperra (near Bankstown Airport) and the Open Day runs between 9am and 4pm. For further information call 1800 252 201 or 02 8707 5500.
RV Sales Strong – RVMAA I
n good news for the recreational vehicle market, sales of all types of RVs have resumed an upward climb, despite dropping back in 2008/9, according to the Recreational Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association of Australia (RVMAA).
Citing figures from as early as 1992, RVMAA statistics show steady growth from 1996 to 2007, when sales of all classes of new RVs peaked at 19,200.
Sales dipped to 17,658 in 2009 but rebounded strongly
in 2010, climbing to 21,327 by the end of that year. Last year showed a modest increase, with 22,038 new RVs sold by the end of December. It will be interesting to see the figures for 2012, in light on ongoing global and local economic uncertainties.
...continued from page 2
illustrated reviews of the latest release motorhomes from both sides of the Tasman. We’ll also be bringing you news, product reviews, technology updates and anything else we can find relating to the exciting and
highly addictive motorhoming lifestyle. Thanks for joining us and remember to tell your friends and other motorhomers about iMotorhome! Watch out for each new issue on the first and third Saturdays of every month
and don’t worry if you miss an issue, back copies are always available for downloading from the iMotorhome.com.au website. See you soon!
d r a h c i R
News...
Freecamp with care in NZ A
pollo Motorhome Holidays is backing the recent implementation of ‘freedom camping’ laws in New Zealand. A creative marketing campaign has been rolled out in New Zealand to inform campers of their responsibilities and of the risk of on-the-spot fines if caught disregarding the restrictions on camping in non-designated caravan parks, known as freedom camping. Apollo CEO, Luke Trouchet, said the many motorhome holidaymakers visiting New Zealand each year can play a big part in keeping the country’s free-camping sites clean and beautiful. “New Zealand is such a great place to visit but the increasing numbers mean more people are not respecting and caring for the country’s pristine natural areas,” Luke said. Key information has been added on the www.apollocamper.co.nz website to inform travellers of the most considerate way to camp, and how to avoid a fine. There’s also a detailed interactive map showing free campsites and dump locations in New Zealand – useful for all holidaymakers, as council officers can now issue on-the-spot fines to the vehicle for anyone breaking these laws.
Tourism Industry Association NZ’s Advocacy Manager Geoff Ensor said it’s great to see Apollo helping visitors camp in the right way and the right place. “Visitors generally want to do the right thing, but they need good visitor-friendly information that is accurate and accessible so they can make good decisions,” he said. By following seven key guidelines, travellers can be sure they’re doing the right thing: 1. Don’t litter – use the bins provided. 2. Recycle where possible and use the correct bin. 3. Use designated toilet and shower facilities only. If there aren’t any, use your vehicle’s onboard showers and toilets if possible. 4. Only dump grey water and toilet waste at designated dump stations. 5. 5. Don’t wash yourself or your clothes in any rivers or lakes. 6. If you’re in doubt about whether you can camp in a specific spot (such as there are no signs), then ask at an i-SITE, department of Conservation visitor centre or Holiday Park. 7. Check out the NZ’s official site for camping information www.camping.org.nz
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New Releases...
Interesting Diversions W
innebago’s Diversion is now available in two different internal layouts. According to a press release, “Both (layouts) are extremely functional and practical as well as offering superb comfort.” Diversion sleeps up to four and features a push-button electric bed that lowers from the ceiling and can be stopped in any position. This means it can be used as a low double-bed or to create a “bunk effect” when extra sleeping space is required. New to the Diversion range is the choice of a twin-lounge area in the rear, with the lounge cushions doubling as single beds and providing additional full size bedding. The lounges can be kept in singlebed format or can be converted to a large double bed by sliding them towards the centre. In both layouts, seatbelts are provided for four.
Diversion offers two living areas, beige ultra-leather trim and the convenience of a private bathroom. It’s based on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter 316 and powered by a high-efficiency 2.2-litre turbo-diesel driving through a 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 5-speed fully automatic transmission. Standard specifications include electric windows and mirrors, cruise control and trip computer plus all the safety features expected from a Mercedes Benz. Other features include a windout awning, flat screen TV/DVD, three-way fridge, roof-mounted air and more. Details from www. winnebago.com.au or your local Winnebago dealer.
Sydney Supershow Feature – FRONTLINE CAMPERVANS
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n the early days of the motorhome industry campervans were very much to the fore, but they are much less so today. However, budget con-
scious travellers who desire a small and zippy VW or Toyota Hiace-based campervan need look no further that the Frontline range of van conversions. Simple yet
solidly built and thoughtfully laid out, all Frontline Campervan conversions come with a pop-top roof and are available in a wide range of layouts.
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Sydney Supershow Feature – FRONTLINE CAMPERVANS
Sydney Supershow Feature – HORIZON MOTORHOMES
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allina NSW-based Horizon Motorhomes is well known for its large van conversions and there were examples of several different layouts on the stand. The Grevillea, Acacia and Wattle models are Mercedes Benz Sprinter/VW Crafterbased, while the Banksia and Melaleuca Ducato use the front-wheel drive Fiat Ducato.
Both have rear east-west and north-south bed configurations available, plus an optional standard motorhome door instead of the normal sliding van door. For cross country explorers, the increasingly popular 4WD Mercedes Benz Sprinter van is also available.
Sydney Supershow Feature – HORIZON MOTORHOMES
Sydney Supershow Feature – JAYCO
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hite is often the default colour for motorhomes and Jayco had quite a few different layouts on display with both Mercedes Benz Sprinter and Fiat Ducato cab chassis
– in white. However, Jayco livened up its stand with an eye catching Conquest in a metallic burgundy colour scheme that included matching leather upholstery in the cab and interior. Also
featured was Jayco’s flagship Optimum, with a Fiat Ducato cab and an Al-Ko tandem-axle chassis. Its signature twin slide-outs result in a spacious interior for even more relaxed living.
Sydney Supershow Feature – JAYCO
Sydney Supershow Feature – KEA CAMPERS
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ea might not have a large selection of motorhomes but it had something for everyone on its stand! Lightweight camping can be easily achieved in the VW T5 Traveller, which can do double duties as a daily driver,
replacing a normal car. Meanwhile, the slightly larger Ford Transit Freedom van provides more space, plus the convenience of a self-contained bathroom. However, for those desiring more internal space the four-
berth Dreamtime or the sixberth Endeavour, both built on Ford Transit cab chassis, are bound to find favour. All models can be bought new or as ex-rentals, with the latter well refurbished and good value for money.
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Sydney Supershow Feature – KEA CAMPERS
Sydney Supershow Feature – PARADISE MOTORHOMES
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ell designed slide-outs are very much the theme at Paradise Motorhomes and that was certainly emphasised in several of the Iveco Daily-based Integrity motorhomes on display.
All not only displayed Paradise’s high level of engineering excellence, but the considerable amount of interior living space that has been achieved in the various floorplan designs.
Also displayed was the Paradise Oasis, a Sprinter van conversion with unique slide-out for the east-west bed; a full-width rear bathroom and pressurised generator locker. Tasty...
Sydney Supershow Feature – PARADISE MOTORHOMES
Sydney Supershow Feature – SUNCAMPER
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ontemporary, high-gloss and well lit interiors were evident in the revamped interiors of two of the Suncamper line up: The Ford Transit-based South-
ern Cross and the Toyota Hilux-based Sherwood. Both showed the benefits of a makeover that is certainly attractive and incorporates some interesting inclusions,
like touch-controlled white/ blue interior LED lighting and long, flexible LED reading lights. New styled leather upholstery also made its public debut.
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Sydney Supershow Feature – SUNCAMPER
Sydney Supershow Feature – SUNLINER
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n keeping with tradition, the Sunliner team certainly produced a fine display, showcasing everything
from their small Ranger motorhome, built on the all-new Ford Range, to the exotic Monte Carlo. In the
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latter case, there were three of the magnificent models on display and one even had a clever bedroom
continued...
Sydney Supershow Feature – SUNLINER
...continued
area that featured both Sunliner’s electrically-raised bed and a cosy and private home theatre set-up! Of course there were plenty of other Sunliner models in between, too, with the Holiday range offering a good selection for those whose budgets don’t quite run to the Monte Carlos.
Sydney Supershow Feature – TALVOR
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or a company that really only moved into the private motorhome market a few years ago, Talvor is a motorhome manufacturer that has made some great strides in its designs. Gone is the “rental look” (Talvor rose out of Apollo Motorhomes) and in its place is a much more upmarket style and appeal. The Talvor range now has a quality
look and feel that the company is keen to keep developing: Something that was quite obvious in the various motorhomes that were on display. Exhibited vehicles covered a wide range of types and price-points; from a VW Crafter van conversion, the Euro Tourer, to the upmarket Fiat Ducato-based Hayman, which comes with a slide-out.
Sydney Supershow Feature – TALVOR
Sydney Supershow Feature – TRAKKA
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ne of Australia’s true boutique motorhome manufacturers, Trakka had an impressive showing of its Trakkadu, Jabiru, Torino and Trakkaway motorhomes on display at the Supershow. Powered by VW, Mercedes Benz, Fiat Ducato and Fiat Ducato, respectively, the motorhomes all displayed Trakka’s unique style, innovation and attention to detail. Stand-out models were the tag-axle Trakkaway, with its seriously spacious and stylish interior, plus the latest Jabiru design, based on a 4X4 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van. Of interest on the latter were the moulded bay windows or “Pods” on both sides at the Continued...
Sydney Supershow Feature – TRAKKA
...continued
rear of the van. Designed in tandem with an elevated, east-west bed, they provide a useable bed length of 2050 mm, the company reports, without the complexity of moving parts or the need to set anything up when stopping for the night.
Sydney Supershow Feature – WINNEBAGO
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here’s no doubt Australia’s largest motorhome manufacturer put on a very impressive display, with
something for every budget and taste. Supported by a number of NSW dealers, the Winny range went
from the Escape van conversion to the only A-class on display at the show (a sign of the times?), the
Continued...
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Sydney Supershow Feature – WINNEBAGO
...continued
Esperance Premium. There are several variants of the Esperance available in both B and C-class and at least one is adaptable for wheelchair use: good news, as it always seems to us that motorhomes are ideally suited to people with physical disabilities. The always-enthusiastic Winnebago RV Club was also on-hand, promoting the many benefits of Club membership.
Sydney Supershow Feature – WIRR-AWAY MOTORHOMES
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ildura-based Wirr-away Motorhomes might not be a large manufacturer but the company’s range of Mercedes Benz Sprinter motorhomes certainly has acquired a loyal and dedicated following. Available with or without a slideout, the Wirr-away range comes with just about everything needed for a luxury lifestyle on the road. The company also does good business in custom vehicle conversions.
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Sydney Supershow Feature – WIRR-AWAY MOTORHOMES
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ccess to Wirr-Away’s electro-mechanical slide-out mechanism is easy, via a full-length liftup flap (right). A simple, hand-powered manual override is provided as an added back-up.
Travel...
GreatDrives
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ne of the main reasons we love motorhomes is they make the journey as much fun as the destination, hence the tag line on our logo. “What a great drive that was!” is something you’re unlikely to hear a caravanner say. For the most part, towing any sort of trailer is more chore than pleasure and the opportunities for thing to go badly wrong through inattention and/or bad luck are many. The iMotorhome team has, over the years, been fortunate to experience many motorhome journeys and while it would be an exaggeration to say they’ve all been extraordinarily memorable, we can’t think of any we really haven’t enjoyed: and much of that is down to the driving experience.
The cover shot of this issue and the image above were taken about four years ago, when some of us took a Trakka Torino and Jabiru on a loop from Sydney to Bateman’s Bay, up ‘the Mountain’ to Canberra, through Cooma and on to Jindabyne. From there we cut across through Kiandra, dropped back down to Tumut and headed home along new and old sections of the Hume Highway. Although the journey only lasted a few days and was intense because of writing and photographic requirements, the sheer scale and beauty of the scenery – particularly through the mountains – plus the vivid light, crisp air and pure enjoyment of being on the road in modern, state-ofthe-art vehicles made it a truly memorable trip.
So, we want to hear from you about your favourite drives. We’re not looking for travel stories as such – the other magazines are full of those – we’re want to know about the routes you’ve travelled that have really stood out and what made them special. For example, was it the road (deserted/straight/hilly), the terrain through which you travelled (mountainous/ seaside/desert), extremes of weather or the attractions along the way that made the journey really stick in your memory? Send us a short story and some photos and we’ll publish the best and most interesting. You’ll see your name up in lights and have the satisfaction of helping fellow motorhomers find that special road, view or place. See you next issue!
Next Issue...
Testing TIMES
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et the fun begin! Next issue we begin our indepth motorhome reviews with two interesting and different machines: Suncamper’s revamped and popular Sherwood and UCC Motorhomes’ Brunner, from New Zealand. The Sherwood is built for two and is a handy pocket rocket that, in 4WD guise especially, can really take you far from the madding crowds. Conversely, the Brunner sleeps six and would be great for families, although it’s also the right size for a couple who want livingspace without vehicle bulk. Watch out for out RV Show calendar, too, which will become a regular feature to help keep you ‘in-the-loop’.
Club News
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e’ll be keeping up to date on various motorhome club activities, which are always a good way to enjoy the motorhome lifestyle. The largest club in Australia, the Campervan and Motorhome Club (CMCA), had its usual stand at the show, run by Ed and Jan Taylor who were always keen to talk
about the benefits of club membership. Not only does the CMCA run the club for its members, it is active in liaising with government
departments at all levels to improve conditions for all Recreational Vehicle travellers. Visit www.cmca.net.au to find out more.