Australia: record growth in RV and caravan registrations

Owners of caravans at Sandy Point Holiday Park in Victoria, Australia, risk losing their sites after the South Gippsland Shire council approved a subdivision for 11 dwellings and vegetation removal. The decision, passed by the mayor's casting vote, has sparked objections from 29 parties and concerns about economic impact on local businesses. A community group has lodged an appeal with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

One in three domestic overnight holidays in Australia is now a camping or caravan trip, driving holiday parks to invest in new facilities. Parks now feature infinity pools with views, water parks with slides, swim-up bars, and overwater villas. Some offer day spas, gyms, glamping tents, and tiny homes. Pet-friendly amenities, including dog agility courses and pet wash bays, are also expanding.

Trakka, an Australian conversion company, has introduced the next-generation Trakkadu camper van based on the Volkswagen T7 Transporter. It features a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine, 4Motion all-wheel drive, and a factory pop-up roof. Standard equipment includes a mini-kitchen with an electric stove and fridge, a full-size rear bed, and a potable water system with a shower. Off-road upgrades such as a suspension lift, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a snorkel are available.

The Easts Beach BIG4 Holiday Park in Kiama, Australia, has been acquired by Tasman Holiday Parks after more than 90 years of family ownership. The park features approximately 500 accommodation sites, including tourist and long-term casual sites. The sale price was not disclosed. The new owner plans to invest in the park's development.

The author drove a Polaris 2 motorhome from Melbourne to Sydney and back, avoiding major highways. The route included small towns, silo art, and natural attractions. Total distance was approximately 2,061 km over six days.

Fire crews were called to a caravan fire in a residential backyard early Friday morning. The Tasmania Fire Service reported no one was inside the caravan upon arrival, though it is believed the structure was occupied fulltime prior to the incident. An investigation into the cause of the fire is expected to take place later in the day.