iMotorhome
54 : Aug 16 2014
magazine
Issue
because getting there is half the fun...
Hi Ho Pinto! Win!
$50 Caltex Fuel Card!
Taste of Freedom!
Sunliner’s Pinto 1 could be just the machine to take you away…
Malcolm tours in compact Kea camper…
Magnificent Moonta Just the place for pasty lovers!
Dentist In A Box
An emergency kit you hope you’ll never need...
Try befo you buy re wi our ren th tal fleet!
• • • •
Campervans Motorhomes Caravans Hobby Haulers
• • • • • •
Camper Trailers Off Road Caravans Pop-top Caravans Hard-top Caravans Motorhomes Campervans
Pre-Owned • • • •
Huge range of stock Poptops and hardtops Full workshop check Parts and accessories store
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED DEALERSHIP View over 60 units of new & pre-owned motorhomes, campervans & caravans online 24/7.
View our online store for spare parts & accessories. CMCA members receive a 10% discount*.
5 Melrose Dr. Wodonga VIC
02 6024 4222
www.awrvworld.com.au
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 Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Jess Ciampa, Emily Barker, Rob Davis Elizabeth & Helmut Mueller
Published by iMotorhome
Design and Production
PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW 2576. Australia.
Design Manager
ABN: 34 142 547 719
E: agnes@imotorhome.com.au
Agnes Nielsen
T: +614 14 604 368 E: info@imotorhome.com.au W: www.imotorhome.com.au Editorial
Advertising Advertising Manager Keith Smyth M: 0408 315 288
Publisher/Managing Editor
T: 03 9579 3079
Richard Robertson
E: advertising@imotorhome.com.au
T: 0414 604 368 E: richard@imotorhome.com.au Roadtest Editor Malcolm Street E: malcolm@imotorhome.com.au
Legal All content of iMotorhome eMagazine and website is copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content, however no responsibility is accepted for any inconvenience and/or loss arising from reading and/or acting upon information contained within iMotorhome eMagazine or the iMotorhome website.
" No one knows what works for you, better than you."
That is why at Sunliner we think you know what you are looking for in a motorhome. Our philosophy is to listen and work with you to create your motorhome dream.
www.sunliner.com.au
Personalise your journey....
On my mind | 5
CATCH 22 It seems my previous editorial on suicide touched a nerve and I thank those of you who’ve contacted me with comments of support. It's a difficult subject despite being one that has touched many readers, I'm sure, and is all the more timely given this week's tragic news regarding Robin Williams. Despite what they say in Catch 22’s theme song, suicide is never painless: the ‘many changes' it ‘brings on’ causes pain in the lives of those left behind – sometimes for their lifetime. To come totally clean, I fought my own battle with depression over many years, which culminated a few years back in the need to seek professional advice after repeated requests from my patient, loving wife. I was fortunate to find my way out through a course in cognitive behaviour therapy on the Beyond Blue website. In a nutshell, cognitive behaviour therapy teaches you to recognise when you're heading down those same old behavioural roads again and that you have a choice not to continue, but to choose to another direction. I was fortunate this was all the intervention I needed to realise I could control the dark thoughts that for so many years repeatedly led me to very dark places. I’m also very pleased to report the black dog no longer has a bowl by the front door and hasn’t been seen for years. Everyone’s situation is different and I’m not foolish enough to suggest something as simple as an online course can meet every need, but it’s a good place to start (try their One Minute Anxiety and Depression Checklist). I’m also pleased to announce that iMotorhome reader and practicing psychologist Rob Davis will be contributing a new iTherapy feature, commencing this issue and with this very prickly subject. Rob, who first contacted me when he submitted a reader review of his Winnebago
Longreach, wrote following the previous editorial and is keen to share his professional knowledge and answer your questions as well.
American Pie On a lighter note, you’ll soon see a special issue of iMotorhome that covers our excellent adventure in America in May. It’s taken a while – as these things do – but will include a road test on our factoryfresh Winnebago Minnie Winnie, a top-ten of the places we visited and the things we did, a how-to guide to book your own low cost USA motorhome holiday adventure and a run down of our actual travel costs. It also includes tips and insights from our terrific travelling companions, who were motorhome holiday and American road-trip newbies. And because one USA motorhome adventure a year isn’t enough, in September Mrs iMotorhome and I are heading to Los Angeles to spend a week driving to San Francisco and back in a 34 ft A-Class, courtesy of El Monte RV. This will be a very different experience to the long days/ big mileage travel of our two rental relocation adventures. It’s also close to a major birthday for Mrs iM and I’m taking her to her favourite San Francisco restaurant – The Stinking Rose: A garlic restaurant (but that’s another story). Who said you can’t have your American pie and eat it, too?
Richard
6 | Content
3
About Us
5
On my Mind
Who we are, where and other legal stuff
Catch 22
9 10
iMotorhome Marketplace
13
On your Mind
16
News
24
iTherapy
The latest Marketplace offers
User Guide How to get the best from iMotorhome eMagazine
Share your thoughts for the chance to win a $50 Caltex fuel card!
What’s happening in the wider RV world - and beyond
Time to let it all hang out…
A refreshing stubby? Sunliner’s compact Pinto 1…
Content | 7
26
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1
36
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom
46
Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Day
54
Travel
60
Product Review
62
Next Issue & Show Calendar
Hi-Ho Pinto - Away! Away with its electric roof bed, that is…
Taste of Freedom – Malcolm spends quality time in a used Kea Freedom
A refresher course on what makes them so good!
South Australia’s Moonta and its proud Cornish heritage
Dentist In A Box - We bring you the tooth about this emergency dental kit…
What’s coming up and what shows are on soon
Outstanding in its field? KEA’s used Freedom camper
8 | Resources resources
iMotorhome
because getting there is half the fun...
Missed an Issue? We've got them all saved in one spot for you. Click HERE to view the complete list of back issues.
Missed a road test? No problem! Click HERE to find them all listed by manufacturer. because getting there is half the fun...
Major Landmark!
because getting there is half the fun...
Making a V-Line!
because getting there is half the fun...
English Holiday
iMotorhome
magazine
iMotorhome
magazine
iMotorhome
magazine
magazine
iMotorhome
because getting there is half the fun...
Esprit de Cor Blimey!
If you’re looking for luxury and ability, Traillite’s Landmark Oakura 758 could be just the ticket…
Auto Trail dares to be different with its V-Line 600…
Auto-Sleeper’s Malvern is an English motorhome that’s a fine holiday destination in its own right…
Dethleffs ‘baby’ A-class is something to ogle at…
Story and Images by Malcolm Street
Story and Images by Malcolm Street
Story and Images by Malcolm Street
Review and images by Malcolm Street
iMotorhome Marketplace | 9
Expedition Vehicles
• • • • • •
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
Truck Campers Slide Ons Fifth Wheelers 03 9588 0077 www.trailblazersrv.com info@trailblazersrv.com
Snipe... The new way of receiving TV anywhere!
12V Fluro
To order simply call (08) 9336 7714 or email info@duvalay.net and mention iMotorhome.
LED Replacement Lamps For Motorhomes & Caravans
Standard Halogen, Incandescent + Fluro bulbs are easily replaced with our wide LED range
NEW! Infrared sensor; Convert your existing lights to security lights!
Visit our website;
www.koloona.com.au
Koloona Industries P/L
No Black spots - No poor reception • Fully automatic tv reception • Extra Accessories - 240/12 Power and Thru wall Easy Eye Fitting.
Absolutely Jaw Dropping Sydney Camping Show Specials SNIPE / VAST bundle : $1495 (rrp $2545) SNIPE without VAST : $1295 (rrp $2195) SNIPE TWIN, no VAST : $1895 (rrp $2345) Special pricing subject to availability. Get in Early - Closes Sunday 4 May 2014 Order at show or on line
02 9829 1688
Travelling Australia? Can you say “hello” to your neighbour? Yes? Then you can earn money to keep tavelling.
www.privatebox.co.nz Call 0800 122 335 / +64 4 831 1333 9-5pm Mon/Fri (NZT)
No sales experience necessary.
www.sosmail.com.au
Medical product.
thepainman.com.au Call 0404 661 895
10 | User Guide
How to get the best from iMotorhome eMagazine Note: This magazine is designed to deliver the best reading experience on an Apple iPad.
General This magazine is published in the Portable Document Format (PDF). This means that once downloaded it is a self-contained document that can be stored on your smartphone, tablet device, e-reader, laptop or desktop computer and read off-line at your convenience. PDFs are clever things that allow a degree of interactivity not possible with a conventional magazine. For example: The front cover and contents pages feature links in their headings that will take you directly to the relevant articles in the magazine. If you are using a laptop or desktop computer you will see the mouse cursor change to a small hand with a pointing finger, which signifies you can click on the link below it All advertisements are ‘live’ and linked to the advertisers’ websites. This means if you touch one (smartphone/tablet) or click on one (laptop/ desktop) you will be taken to the appropriate website automatically if you are connected to the Internet. If you are not connected to the Internet you will be asked if you want to connect, to complete the action Text that is highlighted and/or underlined in blue is also a ‘live’ link that will either take you to the webpage or website of the topic being discussed, or open an email (if appropriate).
iPad and iPhone Users Important: Be sure you have the free iBooks app installed. Books displays a full page at a time and allows you to read the magazine by swiping the pages sideways, just like turning the pages in a printed magazine. iBooks also has a Library function that displays a small thumbnail of the front cover of each issue. You can even create Collections so that you can store each year’s issues separately or by vehicle brand tested, or however you desire.
Using iBooks On downloading each issue of iMotorhome eMagazine on your iPad or iPhone you’ll briefly see a message at the very top of the front cover that says “Open in iBooks.” If you miss it, don’t worry. Just tap the space immediately above the iMotorhome title and it will reappear for a few seconds. When it does, tap it and your issue will be moved to iBooks and reopen. You need to do this with each issue you download. Once open in iBooks you’ll see a number of icons across the very top of the page and a strip of tiny page thumbnails across the very bottom. To get rid of them simply tap the page anywhere there isn't text (touching text will take you to the relevant article). To make the icons reappear just tap anywhere on the page again. To read your copy of iMotorhome eMagazine, swipe the page from right to left. Reverse this to go back a page. To go to the front cover at any time just tap on the page your on and then touch the tiny page icon at the far left, along the very bottom. To leave the issue you’re reading and go back to your Library, tap the page and then touch Library in the top lefthand corner.
User Guide | 11
How to get the best from iMotorhome eMagazine Laptop/Desktop Computer Users The software that allows you to view a PDF document – Acrobat Reader – has a number of controls at the top of the page. Chief amongst these are two square buttons in the centre; one showing a page with an arrow across it and the other showing a page with arrows across and top-to-bottom. Press these and you can view the page at the full width of your screen, or the whole page fitted to you screen, respectively. For further help or information email info@imotorhome.com.au.
The Wirraway 260 SL
With it’s Full Length Slideout Room & Apartment Styled Layout !
From WIRRAWAY, “Australia’s Most Innovative Motorhomes” Wirraway is a dedicated family owned business striving for Motorhome excellence. Our Motorhomes are our passion! Every Wirraway Motorhome is handbuilt and designed by experienced motorhomers who know the importance of making life easier on the road. New to our Range is the brilliant ‘live like a movie star’ Wirraway 260 SL, the latest in our 260 series; our EuroStyle 260 with it’s European styled interior and “The Motorhome of the Year”, the Wirraway 260. Wirraway Motorhomes feature opulence, style and all the legendary design, electrical and construction innovations that are unique to all Wirraways.
Each Wirraway Model is unique! - All are a Must See!
View Our New Website to view All Models, Download Brochures &Virtual RealityTours For details contact: Rob Tonkin - Wirraway Motorhomes, 6 Hynes Court, Mildura Vic 3500
Phone / Fax: (03) 50 230 230 - New Email: info@wirraway.com.au & New Website: www.wirraway.com.au On The Road Wirraway 260SL Slideout Motorhome - 2012 © Rex Willmer
OPEN 7 DAYS! ww w. sy d neyrv.com.a u
WHY ARE WE THE BIGGEST & BEST IN AUSTRALIA? Open 7 Days – Great Show Deals 365 days a year Over 250 New & Used Motorhomes & Caravans on display Award-winning Australian family owned business Fast, easy Finance available Trades Welcome (Cars, Motorhomes, Caravans etc) RV’s prepared by our team of Professional Technicians We want your business wherever you are in Australia! Flights, Airport Transfers & Accommodation arranged RV Collections & Deliveries Australia wide Professional handover – Learn how everything works Free 2 night stay at local caravan park while you get used to your RV Award winning, ongoing after sales service & support We take good care of you!
HUGE NEW UNDERCOVER SERVICE CENTRE OPENING SOON!
CHOOSE FROM OVER 250 NEW & USED MOTORHOMES, CAMPERVANS & CARAVANS SYDNEY RV SUPER CENTRE (02) 4722 3444 • 13-22 Lemko Place (Off Castlereagh Rd.) Penrith 365 Days A Year • Award Winning Team • Trades Welcome • Finance Available
On your mind | 13
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 letters@imotorhome. com.au and we’ll share it with
our readers. We’ll also reward the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter each issue with a $50 Caltex fuel card to help you on your way.
Water Great Idea! Hi Richard, I am just back after a 2 month run from Townsville south to Adelaide then back up the Birdsville Track and home (to Townsville). I was most impressed with the water pump system in dry old Coober Pedy. You probably know but you just pull up, put your money in and fill your water tank. Forgot to mention – 20c for 30 litres was the price. Value I thought.
Thanks for that Johnno, it’s a good headsup for anyone travelling through Coober Pedy. Please accept this issue’s $50 Caltex card for your troubles. By my calculations it could buy you 7,500 litres next time you visit!
Cheers, Johnno.
Tech Talk Comments
Hi Richard, I’m writing after reading the latest magazine online particularly Tech Talk 25 about diesel heaters. I self installed a Webasto AirTop 2000ST and have to disagree with the comments regarding the comparison between the Eberspacher and the Webasto. Webasto also include a muffler and fuel filter with their unit and the life expectancy of the Webasto is identical to that of the Eberspacher of 5000 hours. I am not at all sure where people obtain their information from but
without doubt, in this instance anyway, it has been done without much research. The maintenance requirements of any diesel heater is to run the unit for 1 hour flat out every 3 months if not being used normally. I would suggest more often in winter as diesel has a tendency to "gum up" and this can cause fuel line blockages. On a different note, my wife and I have just returned from a month in Tasmania where we Continues...
14 | On your mind ...continued
covered 5600 kilometres at an average of 11.2 L/100 km (25.2 mpg) in our Birdsville. All the best, I enjoy the magazine immensely. Best regards, Colin.
Men’s Issues
Hi Richard, just a note to commend you on your article re depression and suicide. The public sharing of your tragic family experience is an exemplary example of 'practising what you preached’ in this article. As a psychologist I routinely see men whose emotions are comprehensively inhibited. An accumulation of unresolved stressors and long-term difficulties expressing their feelings can and does lead to intolerable unexpressed emotional pain. The consequences are not limited to alcoholism, drugs, suicide and other forms of self-harm, but also to deteriorating family relationships where the wives and partners simply can’t connect emotionally with their menfolk. I have seen many desperate female clients who describe their partners as loyal, hardworking, reliable, generous, wonderful dads – that they can’t reach. Women love and need men who can be emotionally vulnerable, but he just thinks he's
Offside
Hi there Richard, I was put right offside by your article on suicide, as but for the grace of God I would have been another statistic in March of this year. It’s not uncommon in males around 70 (as I have discovered) and as you say, no one sees the signs. Regards, Anon.
G’day Colin, thanks for the information on the Webasto, I’m sure readers will appreciate it. And don’t forget, if you have any technical questions just email techtalk@imotorhome. com.au and we’ll do our best to answer.
being weak if he shows emotion, while she thinks he’s just being ‘real’ and loves him all the more. My message to my male clients and men in general is to include in your daily discourse, no matter how seemingly trivial the subject, a comment about how you feel. I often recruit partners and family members to help their men express their feelings. I have yet to see a loving wife, partner or caring family member who isn’t up for that challenge. Thank you Richard for including this vital topic. Regards, Rob Davis. Hi Rob, thanks for your support and comments, and for becoming our latest contributor with your new iTherapy column on p24. If any readers would like to ask Rob a question just email me and I’ll pass them on.
Thanks for your honesty, Anon. It seems this is a particularly big elephant in the men’s room that few want to talk about, but I believe the more comfortable people become sharing – as you have – the more it helps everyone.
16 | News Ballarat Approves 12-month Freedom Camping Trial
A
12 month freedom camping trial at Ballarat’s Pioneer Park was approved by Ballarat Council on August 14th, despite considerable pressure from local caravan park operators and the Victorian Caravan Parks Association. Approved by just one vote, the trial allows a maximum of two nights for self-contained RVs only and the CMCA’s CEO Richard Barwick is quoted as saying the Club will work closely with Council, while the trial will be regulated on the ground by local CMCA members. A voucher system for waste disposal at a local caravan park will also be trialled. If the 12 month freedom camping trial is a success and
Council approves the original submission, it will include the establishment of a local free dump point. To read an in-depth Summary of Views of the various parties involved and understand the significance of Council’s positive decision, click HERE (file size approx 16 Mb). In the lead-up to the decision The Fifth Wheelers Network Inc submitted an excellent document outlining the likely economic benefits of a positive outcome, and challenging the submissions made by the caravan park lobby. To read it in full click HERE.
CCIA SA appoints new CEO Australia) where he has served as CEO for the past 2½ years. CCIA SA President Peter White said David had an impressive track record in the caravan industry. “At RVM Australia he created the RV Manufacturing Accreditation Program (RVMAP), and gave the association a much sharper and more credible advocacy role. This is a move back home for David, who has commuted between Melbourne and Adelaide for the past few years, and we are glad to have him working for South Australia’s industry.”
T
he Caravan & Camping Industries Association of SA (CCIA SA) has appointed David Duncan as its CEO. He comes to the role from RVM Australia (now part of the Caravan Industry Association of
iMotorhome wonders how the move will impact the Freedom Camping debate in South Australia. It will also be interesting to see if he champions the divisive policy paper ‘A Guideline for Management of Camping Areas in South Australia’ published by SA Parks (otherwise known as the Caravan Parks Association of SA) or brings a more balanced and reasonable approach.
trakkabout australia ®
Trakkaway 800
Trakkaway 700
trakka. your motorhome away from home. >> Turn your dreams into a reality and take the journey of a
>> Visit www.trakka.com or call 1800 TRAKKA to find out why
lifetime with a TRAKKA Motorhome.
Trakka have been voted “Best of the Best” and before you
>> The TRAKKA team have a proven track record designing
know it, you’ll be seeing Australia in your own TRAKKA®.
and building thousands of exceptional motorcampers especially for Australian conditions for over 40 years. >> The respected TRAKKA name is synonymous with supreme quality, innovation, functionality and outstanding value, endorsed by the numerous industry awards won year after year.
Visit trakka.com or call 1800 TRAKKA (1800 872 552)
18 | News
Redarc wins Telstra Business of the Year
R
edarc, which specialises in electronic items like battery charges and inverters, solar power regulators and a host of other products for the RV, Auto, Mining, Transport and Marine Industries has been awarded 2014 Telstra Business of the Year. The award was presented by Federal Treasurer Joe Hockey. Will Irving, Telstra Business Group Managing Director and Ambassador for the Telstra Australian Business Awards, said the 2014 national winners were trail-blazers who excelled in their ability to be brilliantly different and change industries by either creating new businesses or thinking about old business models in new ways. "Redarc is a high growth, high quality manufacturer that has focused on innovation, deep customer understanding, targeted marketing and investment in new capability." Mr Irving said.
Redarc Chief Executive Anthony Kittel said the secrets of the company’s success were, "Continually investing a minimum of 15 per cent of our sales revenue back into research and having about 25 per cent of our employees working in R&D and innovation." Mr Kittel and his team were recognised by the Telstra Awards judges for having a huge pipeline of ideas that were turned into a stream of product development that drives the company’s growth. The Awards judges described Redarc as a financial success with impressive durability and robustness, high future potential and significant investment in staff training and product development.
TRUCK CAMPERS
FIFTH WHEELERS
FUNCTIONAL SPACES
MODERN INTERIORS
SLIDE ON CAMPERS
ALL CUSTOM BUILT
OFF ROAD MODELS
Buy Factory Direct and SAVE
News | 19
Solar Tent Pole Debuts
M
aking its Australian debut at this weekend’s Border Caravan & Camping Expo at Wodonga Racecourse is an all-in-one tent pole incorporating solar powered lights and recharging facilities that’s claimed to be one of the most technologically advanced camping products available.
Designed by Australian company Doble Outdoors and already proving its worth in refugee camps, the Doble SCS 200t makes its leisure market debut at Wodonga. The worldfirst solar powered telescopic tent pole has 2 USB charging outlets and a slim LED light with 250 Lumens output over a 120 degree arc. The pole is claimed to last up to 250 hours between recharges and can be recharged up to 4000 times. A lightweight, portable and durable 5-watt solar panel is also available and is claimed to recharge the tent pole in 3-6 hours. Price is a not-inconsiderable $189 for the pole/light/charger and $109 for the solar panel (plus shipping).
Thinking about a self-drive touring adventure?
Find all the inspiration and information you need for an awesome journey with our ebooks for iPad.
Get your FREE eBOOK for iPad* www.ebooktraveller.com.au * Applies to Touring Victoria’s Kelly Country eBook for iPad
20 | News
Quickboats Victory
A
folding Quickboat has beaten 29 entrants in the fourth round of the WA Bream Classic Series fishing competition held recently on the Swan and Canning Rivers in Western Australia. According to a press release, the win is proof the new light weight, highperformance folding boat is all you need to catch some great fish. The Quickboat can be assembled or disassemble in 60 seconds and launched from anywhere with water access. According to
co-founder James Graham," the Quickboat is exceptionally stable due to its beam and highly buoyant advanced composite materials. With a 9.8 hp to/output motor it will do 20 kts, 2-up. And once the adventure is over it can be transported on car roof racks and stored on a garage or shed wall.� Quickboat prices start at $4990 and to find out more visit the website or call 1800 Q BOATS (1800 7 26287).
Thetford Cooker Recall
T
hetford Australia has issued an urgent recall of cooking appliances fitted to some Jayco caravans. A product recall notice on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission website warns that a misaligned gas control valve could stick open and cause a gas explosion. The Thetford Triplex Plus oven/
griller has been fitted to Jayco caravans bearing chassis numbers between R81942 and S81151. Owners should stop using the oven and turn off the the gas bottle or isolation valve. They should contact Thetford on 03 9358 0705 to arrange an inspection and replacement if required. from Caravanning News
New Rest Area with RV Spaces
A
new 24hr 'travel centre' to help control driver fatigue on Queensland's notorious Bruce Highway will include 15 spaces for caravans. Development plans for the rest area at Calliope, which would include a service station, food outlets and retail area, have been approved by Gladstone Regional Council. It will be one of the biggest areas of its kind between Gympie and Townsville. The highway is a major route for many caravanners, particularly for southern grey nomads heading north for the winter sunshine. Gladstone mayor Gail Sellers said the travel
centre, to be known as the Vallisvale Service Centre, would function as a major transport refuelling and rest area for vehicles travelling along the highway. A report presented to councillors said the lack of service and rest centres for travellers and trucks in the Gladstone region was "negatively impacting on driver fatigue management". Tiredness has been blamed for many accidents on the 1652km highway. from Caravanning News
WE’VE BROADENED OUR HORIZONS
The Horizon Motorhomes family just got bigger and you’ll love the new additions. Introducing the BANKSIA +2 with additional seating and a permanent double bed and the CASUARINA, bringing extra space and flexibility to the Fiat Ducato*
*ELWB
BA
LL
IN 29 A C S 9 R AM OL ive PE D E r R X ba Stre VA CLU llin et N & SI ac , Ba M VEL am ll O Y pe ina TO BY rs. 0 RH co 2 6 OM m 68 E .au 1 C 15 EN 55 TR E
Now you can choose from eight Horizon models, all passionately built by master craftsmen using only the finest fixtures and fittings.
22 | News
Marketplace Directory Grows!
T
he iMotorhome website Marketplace Directory is growing. It’s designed to link you with businesses that can help, no matter what you’re looking for. We’d like to welcome the following company and hope you’ll consider them if and when you’re in need of their specialised services:
Redarc Electronics Award-winning Redarc Electronics is now featured in the Accessories – Products category of our Marketplace. With dealers throughout Australia, Redarc Electronics has been researching, designing and manufacturing electronic voltage converters, inverters, power supplies, battery chargers and electric brake products for the automotive industry since 1979. Redarc has completed extensive research into battery selection and battery problems with motorhomes.
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 info@paradisemotorhomes.com.au Paradise Motor Homes products are protected by registered designs, patents and copyrights ™ © 2013
24 | Feature: iTherapy
For all men because we matter It’s time to let your feelings be known… by Rob Davis, psychologist lright blokes, it’s time to get your feelings out – all of them – as an when they occur. Why? because you'll be happier, more content and better loved than maybe ever before.
A
When did you last communicate with your loved one/s with language like, “I feel so sad; I feel rejected; I feel lost; I feel hopeless; I feel overjoyed; I feel wonderful; I feel... okay, you get the idea. It’s not what you think, it’s what you feel that carries the weight here. Women are really good at identifying and expressing emotions. What’s more they seek professional medical and psychological help more frequently than men. Part of the reason is women are not easily embarrassed to talk feelings with their friends and even selected strangers. How do they benefit? Well, they typically take better emotional care of themselves because friends can empathise and doctors and psychologists gain a deeper understanding of presenting issues. Also, women who regularly express their feelings in respectful and direct ways suffer much less
physical and psychological distress than men, because getting them out 'as and when' they occur prevents the accumulation process that often leads to serious uncontrolled anger outbursts. You know what I mean, we’ve all been there. Women also do far better after separation from partners for much the same reasons. Us blokes do it tough when we separate. We try to hide feelings of loneliness and despair, while something inside says not to be a pussy – to get real – she never meant that much anyway and the usual vocabulary of weak rationalisations. Do we hurt less than women? Let me tell you, men are not spared the pain and suffering any more or less, it’s just we haven't learned how to get it out so that we can be surprised by the many really caring friends and acquaintances we know. So what’s in it for the caring friends and acquaintances? Ask yourself how you feel when you do a favour for a mate or even someone you haven’t met before – let alone possibly save their life. It feels good. You feel worthwhile.
Feature: iTherapy | 25
So now you know what you are denying your friends and your partner by not telling them when you're feeling like crap. There’s no imposition here, just an opportunity for a friend or loved one to feel good about listening and helping you. In psychology (I’ve got to get a bit of jargon in here) it’s called 'social reciprocity.’ That’s our world guys – social exchange – and the better we are at communicating our feelings the more we benefit. Blokes are practical and objective. We like to fix things. So let’s get down to the ‘how,’ not just the ‘why’. Getting it out is about being assertive. Yes, I know you think you are good at standing up for yourself and expressing opinions. Being assertive is about stating what you think, feel and want in direct and respectful ways. Note the feeling component. Assertive men get more of what they seek than passive or aggressive characters. Passivity leads to others thinking, “Why doesn't he say what he really means?” Others will suspect you of being inauthentic, insincere and generally lack respect for you. Passives don't get much of what they really want because they're too busy trying to please everyone rather than putting their needs first. Aggressive men generally get most of what they want through intimidation of one sort or another, but leave a trail of alienation, resentment and those waiting for a chance of payback. Unsurprisingly, the wreckage they leave behind has a habit of catching up with them (that’s when I usually get to see them). So wherever you happen to fit in, assertion will help you get
those vital positive and negative feelings out to the people who mater most.
First Steps… want to encourage you to ask your partner or trusted friends to tell you each time you express an opinion, idea, dream or just thoughts on the day's travel and events, to remind you to include the 'what I felt' bit. So when your chosen person asks, "And how did you feel?" try to identify your feeling/s and voice them. If they say to you after your first attempt, “I'm not hearing any feelings,” ask for some suggestions about what feelings they think you probably had or are having right then and there. Remember, this exercise is a collaboration not a competition. You are asking for help, so be tolerant of the helper no matter how the help might be delivered. Tell them how you want to be helped, including when you've had enough for the time-being. Then thank them for being on your side and for caring enough to be there for you, because they know you matter.
I
There is a lot of 'we' and 'us' in this world, but in the end there is a uniquely special life that belongs exclusively to you. Make it count. Next time I’ll focus on what I call The Primacy of the Self. You might find it a bit confronting, but rest assured I have been insulted by experts! Also, don’t hesitate to email richard@ imotorhome.com.au if you have any topics you’d like me to talk about.
HiHo Pinto - Away!
26 | Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1
With an electric bed the lifts out of the way Sunliner’s Pinto 1 packs a lot in its compact body… Review and images by Malcolm Street
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 | 27
The Iveco Daily is a bit of engineering overkill for this size motorhome, but provides benefits for towing and durability. External storage is limited to a single locker (above) plus perhaps room in the gas bottle locker for hoses.
S
unliner manufacturer a wide range of motorhomes and although it's in their larger rigs that many of the more interesting features appear, smaller motorhomes like the Pinto 1 have some innovative and worthwhile features too. For starters, our review Pinto is based on a Iveco Daily cab-chassis. Motorhomes 7 m (23 ft) and under are usually based on Iveco's
Italian stable mate the front-wheel drive Fiat Ducato, but in this case the Pinto is also available on the rear-wheel drive Iveco (good if you want to tow - Ed).
The Vehicle
O
n the driving front there isn't much difference between the vehicles, although the Daily is more truck-like in
28 | Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 Inwards facing lounges and swivelling cab seats create a surprisingly spacious lounge/dining area. Note good headroom with bed raised, plus under-bed lights. Reading lights are missing when the bed’s lowered, though.
its interior and overall driving experience. Both come with 3.0-litre turbo diesels, the Ducato's having a slightly higher maximum output at 132 kW compared to the Daily's 125 kW, but both deliver a grunty 400 Nm of torque. Both come with sixspeed automated manual transmissions (AMT) that exhibit the same performance, no matter which vehicle it's in. On the road the Iveco Daily powered Pinto 1 gets along very nicely and being under 7 m (23 ft) long isn't a difficult motorhome to manoeuvre. For this weight motorhome the 125 kW engine isn't struggling and there are only the usual low rev hesitations from the otherwise smooth AMT gearbox. An appreciated feature was the interior rear view mirror fitted with a reversing camera display. Although these are sometimes a bit hard to see properly, I prefer them to one mounted above the dashboard. Only the standard Iveco radio is fitted, so anyone desiring more features and/ or sound quality will need to upgrade.
The Body
L
ike most of the Sunliner range the Pinto 1 body is a mixture of moulded panels – mostly front and rear – and composite fibreglass for the flat walls and roof. Large Seitz-brand acrylic doubleglazed windows are used and the entry door is a familiar Camec security item. The door has the usual problem of not being able to be opened too far, otherwise it catches on the opened window (or it prevents it from being opened). External storage space is limited and apart from the gas cylinder locker there is just one
bin – albeit a good size one – just aft of the passenger door. A feature that is fitted to many Sunliner motorhomes, but not by many other manufacturers, is the rear corner stabilisers. These are not a bad idea if parked up for a while, just remember not to drive off with them down! Spare wheels are sometimes located in awkward-to-get-at positions, but this one is between the corner stabilisers and isn't too bad.
Layout and Design
A
feature that has been included in quite a few motorhomes of late
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 | 29
An appreciated feature was the interior rear view mirror fitted with a reversing camera display. is the elevating bed. This is where the main bed can be electrically raised/lowered and it usually has a lounge of some description underneath. Most layouts with this feature have the elevating bed in the rear, but this design has it as an east-west bed directly behind the driver's cab. That gives a very practical advantage: it can be made up from both sides,
with one person standing in the cab and the other in the kitchen area. There is also another advantage here because the swivelled cab seats integrate quite easily with the sideways facing seats underneath. The Pinto 1’s mid entry door brings you inside just to the rear of the lounge/bedroom.
The Iveco’s cab is pleasant but less car-like than the Fiat Ducato’s. Malcolm believes a cab radio upgrade would be a good idea, while the handbrake position means swivelling the driver’s seat easily takes practice. That leaves space for the kitchen on both sides of the centre of the motorhome and a full-width rear bathroom. It's all done in a beige and brown colour scheme that results in bright interior, but one which is a little too ‘beige-ish' for my taste.
30 | Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 Looking aft from the cab seats, the Pinto 1 provides generous living space for its compact dimensions. Below: The electric bed can be lowered a fair way before you need to “fiddle around with the seat backs and table” to get it to its lowest. The upside is it can be left made-up when stowed.
Living Inside
O
ne of the results of this elevating bed layout is that quite a spacious lounge has been achieved. With the bed raised headroom is a very respectable 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in), achieved in part by a sunken floor with steps at either end. Lighting (or lack thereof) is sometimes an issue, but a couple of new style low profile LED ceiling lights have been fitted under the bed. Setting up the lounge is just a matter of swivelling the seats, but there's the usual fiddling around with the driver's seat due to the handbrake – a feature the Fiat Ducato does much better. There’s storage under both seats, but the kerb-side seat area is mostly taken by the external bin while the driver’sside seat, which does offer more space, still has the house battery and the gas cylinder bin. Fitted on a Zwaardvis every-which-way-mount, the table is slightly offset to the kerb side and can be pushed out of the way if desired.
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 | 31
The elevating bed in the Pinto 1 ends up providing a good sized lounge/dinette area.
32 | Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1
A full oven and grill are a great inclusion, but the kitchen’s total lack of bench space is disappointing. A flip-up extension by the sink, at least, is sorely needed. Given its limited dimensions, though, kitchen storage is good.
Lowering the bed is easily done by the flick of a switch, but if a lower height is preferred there's going to be a bit of fiddling around with seat backs and the table. For some reason, only a ceiling light is there for illumination and no reading lights are fitted. In front of the bathroom the kitchen area is a bit of a mixture, with much of it devoted to cupboard space – either pantry, wardrobe, drawer or overhead lockers – so storage isn't much of an issue. There are of course a few
other essentials like a Thetford Triplex cooktop/ grill/oven and stainless steel sink built into the kitchen bench and on the opposite side, a Dometic 184 litre fridge with microwave oven above. While the kitchen bench does have is plenty of drawers, what is doesn't have is any bench top area. Beside the entry door, a three quarter height cupboard does offer some useful shelf space and it also makes reaching for the various items, including the radio/CD player and
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 | 33 the control panel above the door quite easy. Nothing quite like centrally located and easy to get at electrics.
Keeping Clean
I
n the rear the bathroom has the reverse of what many an RV layout offers, with the shower cubicle in the driver’s side corner and the Thetford cassette toilet in the opposite corner. That leaves room for a centrally located vanity cabinet with wash basin plus upper and lower cupboards. The rear wall window provides light and ventilation, which means the kerb-side wall above the loo is where you’ll find the mirror.
What I Think
I
n many ways an elevating bed replaces the over-cab (Luton) bed of traditional C-class motorhome designs. A disadvantage of the Luton bed that many struggle with is clambering up and down via a narrow and often wobbly ladder. The elevating bed in the Pinto 1 solves that problem and also ends up providing a good sized lounge/dinette area. But given the full sized rear bathroom there are a few compromises in the kitchen department. If happy with that it might be time to take a punt on a Pinto!
Clockwise from top: The full-width rear bathroom’s central handbasin is easily accessed, while the kerb-side corner toilet is neatly out of the way. A separate shower cubicle is a welcome inclusion. The bed can be raised somewhat to allow one person to use a lounge settee or access the cab seats.
34 | Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1
Specifications
Manufacturer
Sunliner
Model
Pinto 1
Base Vehicle
Iveco Daily 45C17
Engine
3.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel
Power
125 kW @ 3000-3500 rpm
Torque
400 Nm @ 1250-3000 rpm
Gearbox
Six speed AMT
Brakes
ABS Disc
Tare Weight
3390 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass
4495 kg
Towing Capacity
4495 kg
Licence
Car
Approved Seating
4
External Length
6.56 m (21 ft 6 in)
External Width
2.35 m (7 ft 8 in)
External Height
3.36 m (11 ft)
Internal Height
2.07 m (6 ft 9 in)
Internal Height (under bed)
1.91 m (6 ft 3 In)
Rear Bed Size
n/a
Cooktop
Thetford 3-burner & grill/oven
Fridge
Dometic RMD 8551 184-litre
Microwave
LG
Lighting
12 V LED
Batteries
1 x 100 AH
Gas
2 x 4.0 kg
Heater
Optional
Solar Panels
Optional
Air Conditioner
Air Command Ibis
Hot Water Heater
Truma 14-litre
Toilet
Thetford cassette
Shower
Separate cubicle
Fresh Water Tank
120-litre
Grey Water Tank
55-litre
Price (on road NSW)
$137,060
Pros
• Spacious front lounge area • Easy bed access • Motorhome (not cab) sound system • Rear view camera • Easy reach electrical control panel
Cons
• • • •
Bland interior colours No bed reading lights Limited under-seat storage Minimal kitchen bench top
Contact
Sunliner
Test vehicle supplied by: Australian Motor Homes Click for Google Maps
31 Pacific Highway Bennetts Green NSW 2290 T: (02) 4948 0433 E: enquiries@australianmotorhomes.com.au W: www.australianmotorhomes.com.au
For more iMotorhome Road Tests click here
Day Test: Sunliner Pinto 1 | 35
The elevating bed replaces the over-cab (Luton) bed of traditional C-class motorhomes, which many struggle with when clambering up and down via a narrow and often wobbly ladder.
36 | NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom
Taste of Freedom!
Malcolm Street spends time roaming New Zealand in this compact ex-rental Kea‌ Story and Images by Malcolm Street
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom | 37
The ex-rental Kea Freedom is devoid of markings and well suited to touring New Zealand’s narrower roads.
F
requently in my motorhome travels I spend a few days parked-up either on-location somewhere or at a rally site. In these cases it means setting up my travelling office (lap top, battery chargers, etc) and needing a bit of space to spread out; like in a C or B-class motorhome around 7 m (23 ft) in length. Occasionally I do trips where a one or two night stay is all that’s necessary, in which case something like a large van conversion motorhome is more than sufficient – particularly when travelling on my own. Such was the case recently when I spent a few days around Auckland and Hamilton and Steve Lane at the RV Super Centre (Albany) was kind enough to organise an ex-rental Kea Freedom two berth motorhomes for my use.
38 | NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom
The kitchen occupies most of the sliding side-door area, but still leaves enough room for access. The small outdoor table folds neatly into the back of the kitchen unit and is surprisingly handy, although the lack of an awning is puzzling.
The Vehicle
B
eing a large van there were a few visual clues it was also a motorhome; like the light above the sliding door, the step below it, the gas cylinder and toilet cassette access doors and the power lead box. There weren't any decals because the motorhome was between coming off fleet and being readied for sale. But being a rental camper it didn't have an awning – and there’s no reason not to have something like a Fiamma F65 fitted.
On the Road
A
problem Ford Transits suffer when compared to the European competition is they are often seen as the poor relation. One issue being that Transits are only available
For a vehicle with circa 100,000 km on the clock I reckon the 2.4-litre 101 kW turbo-diesel powers the Kea along very well.
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom | 39
Rear barn doors provide good access, especially if you don't want to/can't go through the kitchen.
with a manual gearbox - and even with a new model about to be available that is still the case. That said, for a vehicle with circa 100,000 km on the clock I reckon the 2.4-litre 101kW turbo-diesel powers the Kea along very well. Personally I am happy with a manual gearbox, so for me it works quite well. My fuel consumption came in about 10 L/100 km, but I certainly wasn't cruising along! Being a motorhome with plenty of km on the clock you might expect a few rattles and creaks, which there were, but for an ex-rental that's probably seen some hard use there were fewer than I expected. One benefit the Transit does have is it's often easier to get the mechanicals serviced, being a Ford as opposed to its more ‘exotic’ contemporaries.
Living Inside
T
he Freedom’s layout seems to have stood the test of time for Kea. Two sideways facing lounges are situated in the rear, a shower/toilet cubicle is fitted behind the driver’s seat and the kitchen is in the remaining area, behind the passenger seat and partly into the sliding door opening, opposite the shower cubicle. Given the layout swivelling seats are not fitted, but being a flat floor van access to and from the driver’s cab is quite easy. Just remember to duck your head experience is a hard teacher… Décor is fairly plain, although the micro-hide fabric on the cushions is still pleasant looking and certainly serviceable as you might expect in a rental. All the windows (except the driver’s cab) are tinted and all have curtains.
40 | NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom
Despite its rather bland interior the Kea Freedom’s design is well thought out and the result of years of real world experience. You can choose single beds or a massive double, plus there's plenty of overhead and under-bed storage, and even good space at the front above the cab. Lighting throughout the Freedom is a mixture of fluorescent and halogen – all where they should be and certainly better located than some other rental units I’ve seen. Although the fluro/halogen combination is a bit dated compared with a full LED set-up they are still relatively energy efficient, and handy DIY types can certainly change fittings without much trouble. An AM/FM radio/DVD player supplies the entertainment, along with the flat screen TV mounted behind the microwave cabinet. It’s mounted flat to prevent theft, which makes it a tad funny to look at from the kerb-side lounge, and sitting right back in the corner works best.
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom | 41
For a single traveller the Kea Freedom would be an excellent choice. Bed lengths differ on either side, whilst the swivel table adjusts to a multitude of positions. The small over-cooker locker (right) is handy for ready-use items. Bottom: When fully made up the bed is probably queen size, maybe even a bit bigger.
Lounging Around
S
tarting in the rear the two lounges are slightly different sizes – the driver’s side one being 2.0 m x 0.65 m (6 ft 5 in x 2 ft 2 in) and the kerb-side being 1.8 m x 0.8 m (5f t 9 in x 2 ft 7 in). The bed can be made up into a good sized double if desired, but has to be made up every night. If travelling by yourself, as I was, the larger single bed can be left permanently made up and the smaller one used easily as a seat/lounge in combination with the swivelling table. Above the seats on both sides are lockers under which are both halogen reading lights and towel rails. The under-seat areas can be accessed by either lifting the ply hatches or opening the doors at the rear (when the
42 | NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom van’s back doors are open). Hiding under the driver’s side seat is a small safe for valuables. Between the two lounges is a Lagun-brand swivel table. It's fixed to the kerb-side bed and can be pushed to that side if not being used. Although the Lagun mount works quite well, if a more stable table is needed I sometimes think a folding, freestanding table might be better – something many a Euro RV manufacturer often provide. Of course that raises the problem of where to store the table, but I suspect a bit of creatively behind the cab seats could be the answer.
Time to Eat
T
he kitchen in the Freedom seems to be in bits and pieces, but being a relatively small space it works well. The cabinet in front of the nearside lounge contains a Vitrifrigo 90-litre fridge with a two-burner Smev cooktop above. There’s no rangehood as such, but a big ceiling hatch gets rid of most of the steam and cooking odours. The locker above the cooktop is quite small, but handy for ‘ready use’ items.
This vehicle was Malcolm’s home for a few days. He left the bed made up on one side and found that the kitchen, although a bit piecemeal, worked well. Note the extra rear step for ease of access.
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom | 43
The island sink is easily reached from outside – always handy when camping – and has a useful flip-up bench extension inside. Behind the passenger seat is the second kitchen cabinet: sink and small drainer above, three drawers below and most containing cooking utensils. The minimal bench area can be extended by a hinged flap that sits across the gap between the sink cupboard and shower cubicle. If you are desperate to get into the driver’s cab you can still do so by ducking very low! Above the sink the small locker with the roller shutter door contains plates, cups and glasses, all neatly held in a custom built rack. The rest of the kitchen sits on the offside between the shower cubicle and lounge. It consists of a cupboard, two drawers and a microwave oven and two drawers; one containing the cutlery tray. Other useful items are located there, one being an open shelf and the others being mounting points for the radio/ CD player and a swivel-arm-fitted flat screen TV. A point of note here is that part of all of
44 | NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom Although compact the bathroom has all the essentials and the clear acrylic door prevents it feeling claustrophobic. the above occupies the air space above the bed: a neat idea that effectively uses what otherwise might be non-usable space.
Keeping Clean
T
he shower and toilet cubicle is that – a cubicle – but it does have a Thetford bench-style cassette toilet, corner wash basin and variable height shower hose and nozzle (the latter is also used for the sink). It's not a particularly large bathroom, but in a small motorhome you wouldn't want it to be .
What we think
A
Pre-loved Motorhomes When reading through reviews on used motorhomes a few points need to be kept in mind. Although I had an extended test use of the test vehicle it should in no way be considered a thorough evaluation of the mechanical components. I can say, however, that during this review everything functioned as it should. However, testing items like battery capacity really cannot be done effectively. Given the time between review and publication it's quite possible this vehicle has been sold. Consequently, this review should be used as a guide, but being an ex-rental vehicle there are a usually a number of similar units available.
lthough a motorhome the size of this Kea Freedom isn't going to be for everyone it does have specific advantages. In particular it’s a good unit for solo travellers, especially as setting up takes less than five minutes. It’s easy to drive and park, yet is totally self contained (i.e. there’s no need to get out during evening/night hours if you don’t want to) and it still has space for two to move around inside without feeling too cramped. Regarding this test motorhome, I reckon it scrubs up very well for a second hand rig. Sure it shows signs of being used, but Kea has a reputation for building a good motorhome and that shows with this particular motorhome being in overall very good condition. All up, not a bad buy if you’re keen for the motorhome lifestyle but don't have the budget for a new vehicle.
NZ Touring Test: Kea Freedom | 45
Specifications Manufacturer
Kea
Model
Freedom
Base Vehicle
Ford Transit T350
Engine
2.4-litre turbo-diesel
Power
101 kW @ 3500rpm
Torque
375 Nm @ 2000rpm
Gearbox
6-speed AMT
Brakes
ABS Disc
Tare Weight
2880 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass
3550 kg
Towing Capacity
2750 kg
Licence
Car
Approved Seating
2
External Length
5.9 m (19 ft 4 in)
External Width
2.0 m (6 ft 7 in)
External Height
2.7 m (8 ft 10 in)
Internal Height
1.83 m (6 ft)
Bed Size (double)
2.0 m x 1.7 m (6 ft 7 in x 5 ft 7 in)
Bed Size (driver’s-side single)
2.0 m x 0.65 m (6 ft 7 in x 2 ft 2 in)
Bed Size (kerb-side single)
1.8 m x 0.8 m (5 ft 9 in x 2 ft 7 in)
Cooktop
Smev 2 burner
Fridge
Vitrifrigo 90-litre 12 V compressor
Microwave
Sharp Carousel
Lighting
12 V fluorescent & halogen
Batteries
100 AH
Gas
1 x 4.5 kg
Heater
Propex LPG
Solar Panels
1 x 62 W
Air Conditioner
No
Hot Water Heater
22-litre, heat exchange/230 V
Toilet
Thetford cassette
Shower
Flexible hose, variable height
Fresh Water Tank
1 x 87-litre
Grey Water Tank
1 x 87-litre
Price (NZ)
circa NZ$69,900
• • • •
Pros
Strong performance Good economy Easy to service and find parts Designed as a rental, so durability built-in • Electrical control panel – easy to find and accessible • Lounge/bed can be set up in multiple of ways • No real signs of abuse by users
Cons
• Manual gearbox an issue for some • No griller – space an issue but maybe a combo microwave? • Swivel table a bit rocky • Double bed has to be made up nightly
Contact
Click for Google Maps
RV Super Centre 169 Bush Road Albany, Auckland NZ T: 0800 520 055 E: info@rvsupercentre.co.nz W: www.rvsupercentre.co.nz
For more iMotorhome Road Tests click here
46 | Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day
Around The Benz! Mercedes Benz Van Experience day – a useful reminder of German superiority‌ by Richard Robertson
Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day | 47
Instructors from the Mercedes Benz Driving Academy were on hand to keep everyone safe – and take lucky attendees on a hot lap of Sandown Racecourse in this impressive Valente people mover.
R
ecently I was whisked to Melbourne and back for the day to sample the range of Mercedes Benz light commercial vehicles in what was billed as the first-ever Mercedes Benz Van Experience event. More than just another “drive day,” so they promised, the ‘big day out’ was a mixture of drive sessions and presentations designed to convince the heathen of the sheer superiority of the products from the land of the three pointed star (and I’m not taking Bethlehem). The first thing that impressed was the sheer scale of the event. For two days the German manufacturer took over Melbourne’s Sandown Racetrack and not only brought in ‘truck loads’ of Sprinters and other light commercial models, but a range of opposition vehicles that we could drive for comparison purposes – and some of the best ‘mobile cuisine,’ such
as coffee, burgers and even wood fired pizza, all made inside Mercedes Benz vehicles, of course! There seemed to be almost as many Company people in smart black jackets as there were invitees, with the latter largely comprising private and government fleet vehicle decision makers – and me as the only apparent media representative. Divided into four main groups, with two sub groups in each (very organised, these people), our day was suitably organised into four parts – Skid Pan, On Track, CabChassis and People Mover – with lunch in the middle. Having driven my fair share of Mercedes Benz Sprinters over the years I can’t say I learned anything earth shatteringly insightful during the day or experienced any epiphanies. What I did come away with, however, was
48 | Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day
a renewed appreciation for the sheer depth of engineering expertise MB invests in all its vehicles – even the humble delivery van – and the unending crusade the company is on the maintain is preeminent position. Did you know, for example, that 700 Sprinters are produced every day; that during production more than 17,000 items are checked and that production accuracy is set to within a thousandth of a millimetre? Also, more than 100 Sprinter test drivers are on the road 365 days a year and have so far covered in excess of 8 million kilometres, while nearly $1 million an hour is spent on Sprinter research and development? I bet you didn’t!
ESP?
O
ne thing that did re-enter my psyche is the value of Mercedes’ Adaptive Electronic Stability Control (Adaptive ESP). In basic form, electronic stability controls systems use a set of pre-calculated algorithms based on vehicle weight parameters and
Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day | 49
700 Sprinters are produced every day and during production more than 17,000 items are checked.
50 | Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day
This unladen Sprinter tray back with road tyres did a remarkable job on the 4WD training track.
speed to keep the vehicle in line if it starts to slide in a corner or emergency manoeuvre. That’s fine for a car, where the empty and laden weights fall in a fairly small range and the position of those weights is known (i.e. each seat and the boot). It’s a very different situation, however, in a commercial vehicle due to the wide range of loading possibilities. Mercedes’ Adaptive ESP uses sensors that constantly measure the loading on each wheel and can calculate the position of the load and its weight, changing the system’s braking algorithms in real time to suit each load situation. Now that’s impressive. What it means for a campervan conversion or coachbuilt motorhome is that the system takes into account where weight is positioned as a result of the conversion, plus how you load it on the day. So no matter how much you carry
– within legal limits – if you get into bother the Sprinter will likely save you from yourself. Also, most Sprinter van models (not cabchassis, unfortunately) now come with Crosswind Assist. Designed to use the brakes via the ESP system to counter sudden uncommanded sideways vehicle movements, its most valuable application is compensating for the bow waves of trucks or other large vehicles at speed on the open road.
Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day | 51
On Track
I
have to say it was great fun punting a variety of Sprinters, Vitos and Valentes around Sandown race track, across the skid pan and through some other testing challenges devised to highlight their abilities. I also have to say the opposition vehicles chosen for the event – some Toyota HiAces, Isuzu and Hino light trucks, a Renault Master and a Hyundai iLoad – weren’t totally representative of Mercedes’ closest opposition. The lack of any Fiat Ducatos, VW Crafters or T5 Transporters, for
52 | Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day example, certainly stacked things in the host’s favour. Even so, all MB test vehicles performed admirably and their car-like driving attributes were welcome and apparent. One test worth noting demonstrated the effectiveness of the stability control problem and anti-lock brakes. It involved driving flat out from a standing start towards an archway about 50 metres away, where a set of cones just a few metres on the other side formed an obstacle in the middle of the road. About a second before reaching the arch, and while still under full acceleration, a green light on either side of the top of the arch illuminated and you had to mash the brake pedal to the floor and steer in the direction of the light, avoiding the cones. It was quite nerve wracking in the HiAce even though I didn’t accelerate all that hard, knowing how unstable it was likely to become under emergency braking. In the Vito I held it flat to the floor until the green light showed (which was still was still a bit nerve wracking), but even with the brake pedal mashed to the floor the Adaptive ESP system kept the Vito stable, under control and allowed me to steer easily it out of harm’s way. Also impressive was a passenger ride in an unladen tray-back 4X4 Sprinter around an adjoining 4WD training course. Despite the lack of load for added traction and having only standard street tyres, the electronic four-wheel drive system performed admirably. We tackled very wet mud, had diagonally opposing wheels in the air at one point, tracked through deep ruts and climbed a short, steep and very slippery hill all without problems. Equally impressive was a Valente people mover on display that had been subjected to a sideways impact into a pole on the driver’s door as part of the ANCAP crash testing program. Despite significant damage we were told the van could still be driven on and off a truck and for positioning at display days like this.
Feature: Mercedes Benz Van Experience Day | 53
So?
I
’m a big fan of the Fiat Ducato and find it no surprise it has the lion’s share of the new motorhome market, due to aggressive pricing, performance and a long features list. However, if I was buying a motorhome and a Sprinter was available with my chosen body style I’d try hard to find the extra. Not that it’s usually that much extra – maybe $10-20,000 – which in the big scheme of things isn’t such a big price to pay for the best engineered, most thoroughly tested and safest vehicle in its class. It’s also a damn good drive! Remarkably, this Valente is still drivable after an ANCAP side pole impact test.
54 | Travel: Tech: FitMoonta For Purpose!
Copper Connections A pasty's not a real pasty unless it’s Cornish
Story by Elizabeth Mueller, images by Helmut Mueller
Cornish communities all over the world take their pasties seriously – very, very seriously. If the filling’s all meat with thick brown gravy, it’s not a pasty. If the pastry’s not golden with a rope-like crimp, it’s not a pasty. And, should diced carrot find its way into the filling, well, the cook’s committed sacrilege and it’s definitely not a Cornish pasty. This is all well and good, especially when you're hungering for one of those delightful pastry meals and just happen to be at destinations with true Cornish connections – like Moonta on South Australia's Yorke Peninsula. The Cornish connections are definitely woven through Moonta. Not long after copper was discovered – in a wombat hole, of all things – Cornish miners and their families made
their way to Moonta for work and hopefully a new life. By all accounts it was hard and dirty work, in conditions that by today's standards would make us more than just shudder. But Cornish miners, along with others up for the challenging work, built up the Moonta mines to be a part of what became the largest copper mining region in the British Empire. The copper's long gone, but not the heritage. Along with Wallaroo and Kadina, Moonta makes up the points of a copper triangle on what’s known as the Copper Coast. Moonta’s streetscapes reflect the rise and fall of the mining industry, and a stroll around town gives a few clues as to how Moonta and its satellite settlements developed. In the modern business centre there’s Birks chemist shop and
Travel: Moonta | 55
The Moonta Mines School is a beautiful building that now houses a fascinating museum.
the National Bank, both built in the late 1860s, and the two-storey Beytheins shop. Some buildings display original facades, or flourishes of iron lacework, while the former Moonta Institute was restored in 1989. From the Town Hall, with its imposing clock tower, a walking trail connects Moonta’s finest heritage buildings. A longer trail of about 16 km extends to where the real work happened, again beginning and ending at the Town Hall. This one tours part of the extensive Moonta mines complex and can take a few lazy hours to complete. The drive trail can be quite an eye-opener as well as an enjoyable journey through the 1800s. Trail maps and other publications are available from the local information centre, which is housed in the old railway station. The mines school area is especially interesting. Now owned by the National Trust, the school building is quite impressive, as is the museum that showcases the culture and customs of Moonta’s Cornish lifestyle. Nearby is the
Moonta Mines tourist railway, which takes passengers on a 50-minute journey through the mines’ history. There’s also a restored horse-drawn tram, and many other curious exhibits. The mines school precinct has plenty of parking, as well as the temptation of the Moonta Mines Sweet Shop just across the road. While it might be a tiny building, the shop’s packed with old-fashioned sweetness – quite a change from its former duty as the post office for the mines. Though Moonta has plenty of modern facilities, including eateries that feature Cornish pasties on the menu, what it doesn’t have is a caravan park in town. For that, travellers have to head for the coast at Moonta Bay, which is a beautiful part of the world. With a prime site overlooking the bay, the Moonta Bay Caravan Park is rightly popular, though sites can be a bit shoulder-to-shoulder in peak season. Just a few steps from the park is Moonta Bay’s L-shaped jetty, which includes a swimming enclosure toward the seaward end. Despite
56 | Travel: Moonta
Quiet waters in Moonta Bay. It’s a fabulous place to watch the world go by.
the fact that the tide goes out a long, long way, the jetty is a good place to fish from and tommy ruff, garfish and squid are the usual suspects here. In season, blue swimmer crabs are another catch and there’s something quite indulgent about cracking a claw or three while sipping sunset drinks on the foreshore. Not far away and almost like an adjoining suburb is Port Hughes, where there’s another lovely caravan park as well as a beautiful beach. The Port Hughes General Store is recommended as the place to get delicious fish and chips, and it also offers a “big beach brekkie” – the challenge is to finish it all! For motorhomers touring the Yorke Peninsula, the passion that Moonta has for its past is a nice addition to the fishing and other waterbased activities the region is known for. And, with such a variety of towns, attractions and diversions within easy driving distances, it’s a great place to enjoy true Cornish connections.
Turnips and taties
K
ernewek Lowender – which means Cornish happiness – is the title given to a biennial event hosted by Copper Coast communities that has grown to be the biggest of its type in the world. Naturally, the festivities have a huge Cornish flavour. There’s maypole dancing and furry dancing, grand processions of Cornish groups, and the traditional gathering of the bards and dressing of the graves ceremonies. Then there’s the Fer Kernewek (a traditional Cornish fair), Cornish pasty bake-offs, swanky beer to drink, street dancing, singing and more. It’s a fun-filled multi-day celebration of all-things Cornish. The first Kernewek Lowender was held in 1973. Local historian Rosyln M. Paterson researched a number of traditional recipes at that time, including stargazey pie, saffron cake and true Cornish pasties. Many thanks to Ros for this traditional recipe.
With a prime site overlooking the water, the Moonta Bay Caravan Park is rightly popular.
Cornish Pasty Recipe!
Travel: Moonta | 57
• On a floured board, use 6 oz of short crust pastry rolled out into a circle 10 inches in diameter • On half of the pastry place chipped vegetables – potatoes, sliced onion and yellow turnip. Season with pepper and salt. The quantity of potato should be roughly the size of a large fist. Use a smaller amount of turnip (or in South Australia use trombone, a butternut-type winter squash in the cucurbit family) • Use half a small onion and some chopped parsley if available • Then, finely slice 3 oz of skirt steak or leg of lamb and sprinkle it over the vegetables, finishing off with more chipped potatoes
Taties, turnips and a whole lot of love. This is a real Cornish pasty.
• Sprinkle with two tablespoons of water • Close the pastry round tightly to form a half circle • Using the finger and thumb of your right hand, and with your other hand hold the plain edge upright, crimp the edge of the pastry making it into a rope-like closure running along the side of the pasty • Place on a greased baking tray and prick to let the steam out • Glaze the surface and add the person’s initials on a corner using some leftover pastry • Bake in a moderate over for approximately 40 minutes Eat hot with the bulk of the pasty wrapped in a serviette. A true Cornish person doesn’t eat a pasty with tomato sauce. And one pasty is sufficient for a grown man! Now, this is a must-visit place in Moonta.
58 | Travel: Moonta
Fact file • Moonta is about 165km from Adelaide, on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula • Moonta Bay and Port Hughes are within a kilometre or two of the main Moonta township • Moonta Bay Caravan Park: www.porthughescaravanpark.com • Port Hughes Caravan Park: www.porthughescaravanpark.com • Caravan parks are also at Kadina (17km from Moonta) and Wallaroo (16km from Moonta) • RV-friendly parking for self-contained motorhomes is available in the district. Contact the Farmshed visitor centre for details • The 2015 Kernewek Lowender is scheduled for 18 to 24 May: Visit www.kernewek.org for details • For info on the Moonta Mines State Heritage Area visit www.moontatourism.org.au • For info on the Copper Coast visit the Farmshed Museum and Tourism Centre at Kadina: www.farmshed.net.au • For info on the Yorke Peninsula visit www.yorkepeninsula.com.au
The former mines post office now sells sweets rather than stamps
Travel: Moonta | 59
Restoration works have stabilised Hughes Enginehouse, a massive structure that reflects the heyday of copper mining.
60 | Product Review
This might just be the ideal on-road snack for your motorhoming travels…
Dentist In A Box
An emergency kit you hope you’ll never need…
N
o one likes to think about dental emergencies. Unfortunately, nature can take unexpected turns and accidents do happen, and if you’re out on the road and miles from help it can be a traumatic experience. But temporary help can be as close as your glovebox, thanks to Melbourne dentist Dr John I. Banky and it’s called – Dentist In A Box. The Dentist In A Box business actually offers two dental emergency kits: Basic Dental Care and Tooth Trauma Care, and it’s the latter we’ll
have a quick look at here. After all, if you’re going to carry a kit to cope with a possible emergency situation you might as well have the best available. To quote the website: Both kits can be used to provide temporary relief from lost filling, chipped tooth or irritation caused by orthodontic wire. Tooth Trauma Care can also provide immediate care for a loosened or knocked-out tooth. Tooth Trauma Care provides access (via QR code) to an online instruction manual accessible via PDA, smartphone (android & iPhone) or any mobile device.
Product Review | 61
What’s in the Box?
T
Some situations where this kit would prove invaluable include:
he ‘box’ is actually a clear, resealable plastic item not unlike an oversize CD case (though not rigid) that measures approximately 17 cm (7 in) square and less than 1 cm (1/2 in) thick.
a temporary replacement of a broken or • As lost piece of tooth
The Tooth Trauma Care kit comprises these items from the basic kit:
• To stop irritation due to orthodontic wire or sharp, jagged wire on tongue or cheek
• Mouth mirror
• To splint a permanent tooth that has been loosened due to injury
• Sterile applicators • Temporary material (no mixing required) plus… • Disposable gloves • Saline irrigant • Tooth splinting material • Tooth storage solution and container Both kits contain easy to follow step-by-step instructions that assume no prior dental or medical knowledge, while the Tooth Trauma Care kit also includes access its online instructions.
a temporary replacement for a broken or • As lost filling
save a permanent tooth that has been • To knocked out • To store a permanent tooth that has been knocked out enroute to the dentist
Verdict
D
espite serious consideration we decided not to initiate a full-scale dental emergency to test the kit supplied. However, the Dentist In A Box dental emergency kit seems a well thought out and comprehensive first aid solution that should probably grace the glove box of every recreational vehicle in Australia. Both kits are available online from the website or by calling 1300 THE KIT (843 548). Price is $29 for the basic kit and $49.50 for the Tooth Trauma Care kit, with delivery included.
62 | Next Issue
Touring Trakkaway
D
motorhome to see how it has improved.
ue to the workings of the calendar it’s three weeks until out next issue, so next week Mr & Mrs iMotorhome are taking a short break away in Trakka’s updated 2014 Trakkaway 700. The original impressed, way back in Issue 13 (Nov 2012) and it will be interesting to revisit this already innovative SEP
SEP
August 05-07 15-17 26-28
AUG
15-17
We’ve also got two travel stories for you; one on the ‘new’ Pump House free camping site in the small town of Binnaway, just south of Coonabarabran, NSW, and one on October’s Festival bonanza in the NSW Riverina city of Griffith, with everything from food, wine and gardens to sculptures using more than 100,000 oranges! And of course there will be more! Next issue is on Sep 6, so until then why not join our Friends and more than 12,000 Facebook Twitter followers for news and more than a few laughs? See you in three weeks!
September 05-07
SEP
05-07
Border RV & Camping Show
Penrith Caravan, Camping & Holiday Expo
Wodonga Racecourse, Thomas Mitchell Drive, Wodonga. VIC. • Open 9:30-5:00 daily (4:00 Sunday) • Parking: Free. • Adults: $12 • Seniors: $10 • Kids: U15 Free with adult
Penrith Panthers, Mulgoa Rd, Penrith. NSW. • Open 9:00-5:00 daily (4:00 Sunday) • Parking: Free • Adults: $10 • Seniors: $6 • Kids: U16 Free with adult
CLICK HERE Click for Google Maps
SEP
26-28
SEP
AUG
SEP
September 26-28 05-07 26-28 15-17 Central Coast 4WD, Caravan, Camping & Boat Show Mingara Recreation Club, Tumbi Umbi. NSW. 2261. • Open 10:00-4:00 daily • Parking: Not specified • Adults: $10 • Seniors: $8 • Kids: 5-16 years $5
CLICK HERE
CLICK HERE
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 info@imotorhome.com.au and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.
15