THE global financial crisis has, if anything, proven a shot in the arm for the camping, caravanning and motorhome industries in Australia.
According to organisers of the RV & Camping Leisurefest at Bendigo, planned for November 20-22, more and more Australians are trying camping and caravanning holidays.
- FAST FACTS
- WHAT: RV and Camping Leisurefest
- WHEN: November 20-22
- WHERE: Bendigo racecourse, Heinz St, Epsom, Victoria
- HOURS: 9.30am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday; 9.30am to 4pm, Sunday
- ENTRY FEES: adults $9; pensioner concession and Senior's Card holders $7; children under 15 free
- MORE DETAILS: phone the show office on (03) 9329 5311 or visit www.leisurefest.com.au
"In recent months, we've seen many other forms of travel deteriorate because of high costs, unfavourable exchange rates and international unrest," said Leisurefest show manager Peter Wright.
"Yet for many Australians, a grassroots holiday to great local destinations is back on the holiday shopping list."
Peter, who is also executive officer of Caravan Industry Victoria, said caravanning holidays were attractive because they were accessible to everyone, especially families.
"Caravanning has no boundaries," he said.
"Irrespective of one's background, demographic or wealth, this unique lifestyle has meant a great deal to generations of Australians - and none more so than young families.
"Camping holidays can be basic or extravagant, depending on what you're after."
Former AFL footballer - and now host of television travel show The Great Australian Doorstep - Peter "Spida" Everitt admits to being hooked on family caravanning and camping holidays.
"When you're caravanning and camping, you're faced with many challenges and plenty of surprises," he said.
"It's a great way to live."
Spida will be at this month's RV & Camping Leisurefest at Bendigo racecourse.
Leisurefest will showcase more than 200 of the latest caravans, motorhomes and other recreational vehicles.
There will be tents and camping equipment, RV and four-wheel-drive accessories, plus tourism destinations to help visitors plan their next holiday.
There will also be tent-trailers, fifth-wheelers, camper trailers, four-wheel-drives, outdoor clothing, slide-on camping units, fishing tackle and other gear and pop-tops.
Activities will include free daily seminars from industry experts, a towing simulator display, towing safety tips and free kids' entertainment on Saturday and Sunday.
For more details, visit www.leisurefest.com.au
